bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transformer‐4 version 2.0.1, a free multi‐platform software to quickly reformat genotype matrices of any marker type, and archive them in the Demiurge information system
Authors: Caujapé‐Castells Juli , Sabbagh Izzat , Castellano José J. , Ramos Rafael , Henríquez Víctor , Quintana Francisco M. , Medina Dailos A. , Toledo Javier , Ramírez Fernando , Rodríguez Juan F.
Published: February 2013

Transformer‐4 version 2.0.1 (T4) is a multi‐platform freeware programmed in java that can transform a genotype matrix in Excel or XML format into the input formats of one or several of the most commonly used population genetic software, for any possible combination of the populations that the matrix contains. T4 also allows the users to (i) draw allozyme gel interpretations for any number of diploid individuals, and then generate a genotype matrix ready to be used by T4; and (ii) produce basic reports about the data in the matrices. Furthermore, T4 is the only way to optionally submit ‘genetic diversity digests’ for publication in the Demiurge online information system (http://www.demiurge-project.org). Each such digest undergoes peer‐review, and it consists of a geo‐referenced data matrix in the tfm4 format plus any ancillary document or hyperlink that the digest authors see fit to include. The complementarity between T4 and Demiurge facilitates a free, safe, permanent, and standardized data archival and analysis system for researchers, and may also be a convenient resource for scientific journals, public administrations, or higher educators. T4 and its converters are freely available (at, respectively, http://www.demiurge-project.org/download_t4 and http://www.demiurge-project.org/converterstore) upon registration in the Demiurge information system (http://demiurge-project.org/register). Users have to click on the link provided on an account validation email, and accept Demiurge's terms of use (see http://www.demiurge-project.org/termsofuse). A thorough user's guide is available within T4. A 3‐min promotional video about T4 and Demiurge can be seen at http://vimeo.com/29828406.
A NGS approach to the encrusting Mediterranean sponge Crella elegans (Porifera, Demospongiae, Poecilosclerida): transcriptome sequencing, characterization and overview of the gene expression along three life cycle stages
Authors: Pérez‐Porro A. R. , Navarro‐Gómez D. , Uriz M. J. , Giribet G.
Published: February 2013

Sponges can be dominant organisms in many marine and freshwater habitats where they play essential ecological roles. They also represent a key group to address important questions in early metazoan evolution. Recent approaches for improving knowledge on sponge biological and ecological functions as well as on animal evolution have focused on the genetic toolkits involved in ecological responses to environmental changes (biotic and abiotic), development and reproduction. These approaches are possible thanks to newly available, massive sequencing technologies–such as the Illumina platform, which facilitate genome and transcriptome sequencing in a cost‐effective manner. Here we present the first NGS (next‐generation sequencing) approach to understanding the life cycle of an encrusting marine sponge. For this we sequenced libraries of three different life cycle stages of the Mediterranean sponge Crella elegans and generated de novo transcriptome assemblies. Three assemblies were based on sponge tissue of a particular life cycle stage, including non‐reproductive tissue, tissue with sperm cysts and tissue with larvae. The fourth assembly pooled the data from all three stages. By aggregating data from all the different life cycle stages we obtained a higher total number of contigs, contigs with blast hit and annotated contigs than from one stage‐based assemblies. In that multi‐stage assembly we obtained a larger number of the developmental regulatory genes known for metazoans than in any other assembly. We also advance the differential expression of selected genes in the three life cycle stages to explore the potential of RNA‐seq for improving knowledge on functional processes along the sponge life cycle.
Genetic dissection of a motility‐associated c‐di‐GMP signalling protein of Pseudomonas putida
Authors: Österberg Sofia , Åberg Anna , Herrera Seitz M Karina , Wolf‐Watz Magnus , Shingler Victoria
Published: February 2013

Lack of the Pseudomonas putida PP2258 protein or its overexpression results in defective motility on solid media. The PP2258 protein is tripartite, possessing a PAS domain linked to two domains associated with turnover of c‐di‐GMP – a cyclic nucleotide that controls the switch between motile and sessile lifestyles. The second messenger c‐di‐GMP is produced by diguanylate cyclases and degraded by phosphodiesterases containing GGDEF and EAL or HD‐GYP domains respectively. It is common for enzymes involved in c‐di‐GMP signalling to contain two domains with potentially opposing c‐di‐GMP turnover activities; however, usually one is degenerate and has been adopted to serve regulatory functions. Only a few proteins have previously been found to have dual enzymatic activities – being capable of both synthesizing and hydrolysing c‐di‐GMP. Here, using truncated and mutant derivatives of PP2258, we show that despite a lack of complete consensus in either the GGDEF or EAL motifs, the two c‐di‐GMP turnover domains can function independently of each other, and that the diguanylate cyclase activity is regulated by an inhibitory I‐site within its GGDEF domain. Thus, motility‐associated PP2258 can be added to the short list of bifunctional c‐di‐GMP signalling proteins.
Comparison of periodontal open flap debridement versus closed debridement with Er,Cr:YSGG laser
Authors: Gupta M , Lamba AK , Verma M , Faraz F , Tandon S , Chawla K , Koli DK
Published: February 2013

Background

Traditional periodontal open flap debridement (OFD) results in reduced pocket depth (PD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), gingival recession (GR) and postoperative pain and discomfort. The quest to overcome these shortcomings has led to research into Er,Cr:YSGG laser assisted pocket therapy (ELAPT). This study was designed to compare the clinical outcomes of ELAPT versus OFD.

Methods

Fifteen patients with a PD of ≥5 mm and ≤8 mm at two sites were selected. Test sites (Group 1) were treated by ELAPT and the control (Group 2) by OFD. Clinical parameters were recorded at baseline, 3 and 6 months and included Plaque Index (PI), Gingival Index (GI), modified Sulcular Bleeding Index (mSBI), PD, CAL and GR.

Results

Both treatments produced a reduction in PI, GI, mSBI and PD, an increase in GR, and a gain in CAL at 3 and 6 months. The mean gain of CAL in Group 1 at 3 and 6 months (1.60 ± 0.78 and 1.80 ± 0.63) was similar (p > 0.05) to the value of Group 2 (1.93 ± 0.88 and 2.00 ± 0.54). GR increased significantly (p < 0.05) only in Group 2 at 3 and 6 months (1.80 ± 0.56 and 1.87 ± 0.64) compared to Group 1 (0.50 ± 0.68 and 0.60 ± 0.74).

Conclusions

ELAPT compared with OFD results in similar CAL gains with less GR and significant reductions in PD, GI and mSBI, and may be considered as an alternative to surgical therapy.
Weak Firms Follow Strong Firms in Hot IPO Markets
Authors: Chang Kiyoung , Kim Yong‐Cheol , Shim Hyeongsop
Published: February 2013

We investigate whether initial public offerings (IPO) occurring during hot markets are fundamentally different from those occurring during cold markets. Firms that go public during hot markets show lower survival probability, shorter survival duration, and worse long‐run performance. When hot markets are separated into two periods, we find early issuers during hot markets (pioneers) have better investment opportunities than late issuers during the same hot markets (followers). Furthermore, pioneers show higher survival probability, longer survival duration, and better long‐run performance than followers. Our evidence shows that the inferior quality of followers is a major contributor to the difference between hot and cold IPO markets.
Credit Rating Changes and Earnings Management
Authors: Kim Young S. , Kim Yura , Song Kyojik “Roy”
Published: February 2013

We examine whether firm managers engage in income‐increasing accruals manipulation or real activities earnings management to affect the future rating changes when firm managers have private information about the upcoming credit rating change. Using the large sample of United States data over the period 1990–2011, we find that firms with upcoming credit rating changes are likely to engage in real activities earnings management, whereas they tend to decrease discretionary accruals before credit rating changes. We also find a positive relationship between real activities management (RM) and credit rating upgrades, but no relation between RM and downgrades. The findings suggest that the firm's management tries to influence the upcoming changes of credit ratings by actively engaging in real activities earnings management rather than accruals‐based earnings management.
Immunogenicity and Contraceptive Efficacy of Escherichia coli‐Expressed Recombinant Porcine Zona Pellucida Proteins
Authors: Gupta Neha , Chakrabarti Kausiki , Prakash Krishna , Wadhwa Neerja , Gupta Tripti , Gupta Satish K.
Published: February 2013

Problem

To overcome availability of the purified native zona pellucida (ZP) glycoproteins for immunocontraception, porcine ZP3, and ZP4 were expressed in E. coli.

Method of study

Purified recombinant proteins were characterized by SDS‐PAGE and Western blot, and immunogenicity and contraceptive efficacy determined in FvB/J female mice.

Results

Purified ZP3, ZP3 with promiscuous T‐cell epitope of tetanus toxoid, ZP4 and ZP4 incorporating promiscuous T‐cell epitope of bovine RNase revealed ~44‐, ~49‐, ~53‐, and ~55‐kDa bands by SDS‐PAGE and Western blot, respectively. Immunization of female mice with recombinant proteins elicited high antibody titers as well as T‐cell responses. Immune sera recognized mouse oocyte ZP and also inhibited in vitro fertilization. Immunized mice showed significant decrease in fertility. Recombinant proteins were able to recall memory antibody response in female mice primed with porcine native ZP.

Conclusion

Availability of recombinant porcine proteins will be useful in the development of contraceptive vaccine.
Molecular characteristics of horse phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ)
Authors: Sato Kana , Wakai Takuya , Seita Yasunari , Takizawa Akiko , Fissore Rafael A. , Ito Junya , Kashiwazaki Naomi
Published: February 2013

A sperm‐specific phospholipase C (PLC), PLCzeta (PLCζ), is thought to underlie the initiation of calcium ([Ca2+]i) oscillations that induce egg activation in mammals. In large domestic species, only bovine, porcine and recently equine PLCζ have been cloned, and the physiological functions of these molecules have not been fully characterized. Here, we evaluated the physiological functions of equine PLCζ (ePLCζ) in mouse oocytes. ePLCζ was cloned from testis using RT‐PCR. The expression of ePLCζ messenger RNA was confirmed in testis but not in other tissues. Microinjection of ePLCζ complementary RNA (cRNA) into mouse oocytes induced long‐lasting [Ca2+]i oscillations, and most of the injected oocytes formed pronuclei (PN). The injection of cRNAs encoding horse, mouse, human and cow PLCζ into mouse oocytes showed that ePLCζ had the highest [Ca2+]i oscillation‐inducing activity among the species tested. Mutation of D202R, which renders the protein inactive, abrogated the activity of ePLCζ. The nuclear translocation ability of ePLCζ was defective when expressed in mouse oocytes. Taken together, our findings show for the first time that ePLCζ has highest activity of the mammalian species studied to date. Our findings will be useful for the improvement of reproductive technologies in the horse.
Exploring the role and influence of expectations in achieving VLE benefit success
Authors: Jackson Stephen , Fearon Colm
Published: February 2013

The aim of this paper is to investigate the role and influence of expectations management in realising benefit success when adopting a virtual learning environment (VLE). Based on a discussion of findings from a further and higher education college in the UK, a conceptual expectations management model is developed that explores the factors influencing the formulation and realisation of expected benefits from a case study of VLE adoption over time (2003–2012). The importance of avoiding unrealistic expectations as well as proactive user involvement, change control, training and clearly defined pedagogical reasons for introducing a VLE are discussed. Finally, a number of key learning points, which managers and practitioners should address when adopting VLEs, are also considered, along with suggestions for future research.
Surgical correction of vesico‐ureteric reflux for recurrent febrile urinary tract infections after kidney transplantation
Authors: Dinckan Ayhan , Aliosmanoglu Ibrahim , Kocak Huseyin , Gunseren Filiz , Mesci Ayhan , Ertug Zeki , Yucel Selcuk , Suleymanlar Gultekin , Gurkan Alihan
Published: February 2013

Objective

To evaluate the outcome of anti‐reflux revision surgery in patients diagnosed with at least a grade 3 reflux at voiding cysto‐urethrography in patients with recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI) after renal transplantation.

Patients and Methods

We identified 60 patients with a diagnosis of recurrent febrile UTI and post‐transplantation vesico‐ureteric reflux (VUR) who underwent open surgical correction of reflux.

Patient characteristics, including the aetiology of end‐stage renal disease, age, time to VUR correction, type of VUR correction, serum creatinine levels, and number of UTIs before and after correction were documented.

Results

The median (range) age of the patients was 31.5 (9–65) years. A total of 30 patients underwent uretero‐ureterostomy or pyelo‐ureterostomy and 30 underwent extravesical or intravesical ureteric reimplantation.

The median (range) creatinine levels before and after correction were 1.5 (0.8–4.5) mg/dL and 1.3 (0.7–4.5) mg/dL (P < 0.05), respectively.

The median (range) number of UTI episodes reported before the correction surgery was 4 (3–12), whereas number of UTI episodes after the surgery was 1 (0–12), the difference being significant (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Open surgical correction of post‐transplant VUR is an effective and safe method of decreasing UTI episodes and stopping reflux.

Surgical correction of reflux may prolong the life of the renal graft.
Dysembryoplastic Neuroepithelial Tumors Share with Pleomorphic Xanthoastrocytomas and Gangliogliomas BRAFV600E Mutation and Expression
Authors: Chappé Céline , Padovani Laetitia , Scavarda Didier , Forest Fabien , Nanni‐Metellus Isabelle , Loundou Anderson , Mercurio Sandy , Fina Frédéric , Lena Gabriel , Colin Carole , Figarella‐Branger Dominique
Published: February 2013

Pediatric cortical glioneuronal benign tumors mainly include gangliogliomas (GG) [differential diagnoses pilocytic astrocytomas (PA) and pleomorphic xanthoastrocytomas (PXA)] and dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor (DNT). DNT include the specific form and the controversial non‐specific form that lack the specific glioneuronal element. Our aims were to search for BRAFV600E mutation and CD34 expression in DNT, PXA, GG and PA to correlate BRAFV600E mutation with BRAFV600E expression and to evaluate their diagnostic and prognostic values. Ninety‐six children were included. BRAFV600E mutation was studied by sequencing and immunohistochemistry; CD34 expression was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. BRAFV600E mutation was detected in PXA (60%), GG (38.7%), DNT (30%, including 3/11 specific and 3/9 non‐specific forms) and PA (12.5%). BRAFV600E expression was recorded in PXA (60%), GG (45.2%) and DNT (30%). CD34 expression was recorded in PXA (60%), GG (58.1%), DNT (25%) and PA (12.5%). Neither CD34 expression nor BRAFV600E status was predictive of prognosis, except for PA tumors where CD34 expression was associated with a shorter overall survival. In conclusion, DNT shared with PXA and GG, BRAFV600E mutation and/or CD34 expression, which represent molecular markers for these tumors, and we recommend searching for CD34 expression and BRAFV600E mutation in all DNT, especially the non‐specific forms.
Oncogenic role of kinesin proteins and targeting kinesin therapy
Authors: Liu Xinran , Gong Hao , Huang Kun
Published: February 2013

The kinesin superfamily (KIF) is a group of proteins that share a highly conserved motor domain. Except for some members, many KIF proteins have adenosine triphosphatase activity and microtubule‐dependent plus‐end motion ability. Kinesins participate in several essential cellular functions, including mitosis, meiosis and the transport of macromolecules. Increasing evidence indicates kinesin proteins play critical roles in the genesis and development of human cancers. Some kinesin proteins are associated with maligancy as well as drug resistance of solid tumor. Thus, targeting KIF therapy seems to be a promising anticancer strategy. Inhibitors of KIF such as kinesin spindle protein (KSP/Eg5) have entered clinical trials for monotherapy or in combination with other drugs, and kinesins other than Eg5 with various potential anticancer target characteristics are also constantly being discovered and studied. Here, we summarize the oncogenic roles of kinesin proteins and potential cancer therapy strategies that target KIF.
Novel MEK inhibitor trametinib and other retinoblastoma gene (RB)‐reactivating agents enhance efficacy of 5‐fluorouracil on human colon cancer cells
Authors: Watanabe Motoki , Sowa Yoshihiro , Yogosawa Mayumi , Sakai Toshiyuki
Published: February 2013

Chemotherapy for colorectal cancer has become more complicated and diversified with the appearance of molecular‐targeting agents. 5‐Fluorouracil (5‐FU) has been a mainstay of chemotherapy for colorectal cancer, but it is still unknown whether the combining of 5‐FU with novel molecular‐targeting agents is effective. Thymidylate synthase (TS) is a direct target of 5‐FU, and the low TS level has been generally supposed to sensitize 5‐FU's efficacy. We therefore hypothesized that RB‐reactivating agents could enhance the efficacy of 5‐FU, because the RB‐reactivating agents could suppress the function of transcription factor E2F of TS gene promoter. We used three RB‐reactivating agents, trametinib/GSK1120212 (MEK inhibitor), fenofibrate (PPARα agonist), and LY294002 (PI3K inhibitor), with 5‐FU against human colon cancer HT‐29 and HCT15 cells. Trametinib induced p15 and p27 expression and reduced cyclin D1 levels in HT‐29 cells. Fenofibrate also dephosphorlated ERK1/2 and reduced cyclin D1 levels in HT‐29 cells. LY294002 induced p27 expression in HCT15 cells. All three agents caused dephosphorylation of RB protein and G1‐phase arrest with a reduction of TS expression. As a consequence, the combination of 5‐FU with each of the agents resulted in a significant decrease of colony numbers in HT‐29 or HCT15 cells. These results suggest “RB‐reactivation therapy” using molecular‐targeting agents to be a new strategy for 5‐FU‐based chemotherapy. In particular, we strongly expect trametinib, which was discovered in Japan and was recently submitted to FDA for approval, to be used together with established regimens for colorectal cancer.
Osteonecrosis of the Jaw after Implant Surgery in Patients Treated with Bisphosphonates – A Presentation of Six Consecutive Cases
Authors: Tam Yvonne , Kar Kian , Nowzari Hessam , Cha Hyun‐Suk , Ahn Kang‐Min
Published: February 2013

Background

Osteonecrosis of the jaws in patients treated with bisphosphonates is mostly associated with intravenous bisphosphonates while the incidence associated with oral bisphosphonates is not significant.

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe a series of cases of jaw osteonecrosis that may be associated with dental implant placement in patients who had taken nitrogen containing bisphosphonates via oral and/or intravenous route.

Patients

Six female patients were treated for osteonecrosis of the jaw after implant placement. An average age was 71.8 ± 6.5 years old and they had a history of bisphosphonate use. Two patients suffered from cancer and the other patients had osteoporosis. Two osteoporosis patients had taken only oral bisphosphonate and the other patients received intravenous bisphosphonates.

Results

Resection of necrotized bone, implant removal, and primary closure were performed in five patients and four patients showed uneventful healing. One patient presented recurrence at the maxilla and underwent further extraction and resection. One patient presented with an exposure of the bone after implant placement was treated with an advanced flap closure, and the implants were preserved.

Conclusion

Unusual jaw necrosis after dental implant surgery might be related with oral and/or intravenous bisphosphonates. Wide resection of necrotic bone, collagen graft, and primary closure are key factors for successful healing.
Clinical, microbiological, and salivary biomarker profiles of dental implant patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Tatarakis Nikolaos , Kinney Janet S. , Inglehart Marita , Braun Thomas M. , Shelburne Charles , Lang Niklaus P. , Giannobile William V. , Oh Tae‐Ju
Published: February 2013

Objective

Regulators of peri‐implant bone loss in patients with diabetes appear to involve multiple risk factors that have not been clearly elucidated. This study was conducted to explore putative local etiologic factors on implant bone loss in relation to type 2 diabetes mellitus, including clinical, microbial, salivary biomarker, and psychosocial factors.

Materials and methods

Thirty‐two subjects (divided into type 2 diabetes mellitus and non‐diabetic controls), having at least one functional implant and six teeth, were enrolled in a 1‐year longitudinal investigation. Analyses of clinical measurements and standardized intra‐oral radiographs, saliva and serum biomarkers (via protein arrays for 20 selected markers), and plaque biofilm (via qPCR for eight periodontal pathogens) were performed at baseline and 1 year. In addition, the subjects were asked to respond to questionnaires to assess behavioral and psychosocial variables.

Results

There was a significant increase from baseline to 1 year in the probing depth of implants in the diabetes group (1.95 mm to 2.35 mm, P = 0.015). The average radiographic bone loss during the study period marginally increased at dental implants compared to natural teeth over the study period (0.08 mm vs. 0.05 mm; P = 0.043). The control group harbored higher levels of Treponema denticola at their teeth at baseline (P = 0.046), and the levels of the pathogen increased significantly over time around the implants of the same group (P = 0.003). Salivary osteoprotegerin (OPG) levels were higher in the diabetes group than the control group at baseline only; in addition, the salivary levels of IL‐4, IL‐10, and OPG associated with host defense were significantly reduced in the diabetes group (P = 0.010, P = 0.019, and P = 0.024), while controls showed an increase in the salivary OPG levels (P = 0.005). For psychosocial factors, there were not many significant changes over the observation period, except for some findings related to coping behaviors at baseline.

Conclusions

The study suggests that the clinical, microbiological, salivary biomarker, and psychosocial profiles of dental implant patients with type 2 diabetes who are under good metabolic control and regular maintenance care are very similar to those of non‐diabetic individuals. Future studies are warranted to validate the findings in longer‐term and larger clinical trials (ClinicalTrials.gov # NCT00933491).
Tunable solid‐state fluorescence emission and red upconversion luminescence of novel anthracene‐based fluorophores
Authors: Sun Yi‐Feng , Chen Zhi‐Yong , Zhu Li , Xu Shu‐Hong , Wu Ren‐Tao , Cui Yi‐Ping
Published: February 2013

Novel, tunable solid‐state emitters based on anthracene groups were synthesised and characterised by spectroscopy and elemental analysis. Their solid‐state photoluminescence properties were studied. These fluorophores display interesting solid‐state emission properties with an emission at wavelengths ranging from 550 to 650 nm when excited by a 325 nm helium–cadmium laser at room temperature. In particular, among them, 1,6‐di(9‐anthryl)hexa‐1,5‐diene‐3,4‐dione, 2‐[4‐(2‐benzoxazolyl)phenyl]‐4,5‐bis[2‐(9‐anthryl)vinyl]‐1H‐imidazole and 2,3‐bis[2‐(9‐anthryl)vinyl]quinoxaline show red, yellow and green emission, respectively, at 650, 584 and 550 nm. The results demonstrated that the luminescent colours can be tuned from red to yellow and green by simply varying molecular structure. Besides, 1,6‐di(9‐anthryl)hexa‐1,5‐diene‐3,4‐dione also exhibited an upconverted red fluorescent emission peak at around 675 nm under femtosecond excitation at 800 nm.
Chronic nicotine effects on left ventricular function in healthy middle‐aged people: an echocardiographic study
Authors: Sundström D. , Waldenborg M. , Magnuson A. , Emilsson K.
Published: February 2013

Aims

Cigarettes and Swedish snuff influence the cardiovascular system in many ways. Cigarette and snuff usage have been linked with an acute impairment in several diastolic cardiac parameters during intake. The aim of this study is to investigate whether long‐term usage of Swedish snuff or cigarettes also causes a more permanent impairment of systolic and/or diastolic cardiac parameters in the left ventricle in otherwise healthy middle‐aged snuffers and smokers.

Methods and results

Eighty‐seven age‐matched volunteers were included and examined with echocardiography. The volunteers were divided into three subgroups; one group with non‐tobacco users, one group with long‐term smokers and finally one group with long‐term snuffers. The smokers and snuffers were instructed not to use these products for at least 5 h before the examination. The systolic and diastolic cardiac parameters were collected at one time. Most of the systolic parameters measured were unaltered between the tobacco subgroups and non‐tobacco users, and therefore, no alteration of significance was found in systolic parameters. Also, almost all of the diastolic parameters measured were not significantly impaired in the tobacco subgroups compared with non‐tobacco users. However, the deceleration time (DT) was slightly prolonged (P<0·05) and thus statistically significant in the tobacco subgroups. This finding is somewhat difficult to interpret but may be seen as random.

Conclusions

This study reveals that most systolic‐ and diastolic cardiac parameters are not chronically significantly altered in middle‐aged long‐term tobacco users compared with age‐matched non‐tobacco users.
Maffucci syndrome with the spindle cell hemangiomas in the mucosa of the lower lip: a rare case report and literature review
Authors: Cai Yu , Wang Rong , Chen Xin‐Ming , Zhao Yi‐Fang , Sun Zhi‐Jun , Zhao Ji‐Hong
Published: February 2013

The presence of non‐cutaneous vascular lesions in the syndrome of multiple enchondromas and subcutaneous hemangiomas, also named Maffucci syndrome, is exceedingly rare. Until now, non‐cutaneous vascular lesions have been described in nine patients, while only three cases were present in the oral cavity; they were found in the tongue in two patients and in the lower lip in one patient. Herein, we report the second case of vascular lesions localized in the mucosa of lower lip in a patient with Maffucci syndrome. Histopathologic examination showed spindle cell hemangioma.
Histology of saphenous veins after treatment with the ClariVein® device – an ex‐vivo experiment
Authors: Kendler Michael , Averbeck Marco , Simon Jan C. , Ziemer Mirjana
Published: February 2013

Background

Endovenous treatment modalities are used increasingly to treat varicose veins. The ClariVein® catheter is a new endoluminal mechanico‐chemical obliteration technique which can be used without tumescent anesthesia. It is still unclear what changes the mechanical tip of the catheter has on the walls of the vein.

Patients and methods

Five great saphenous vein specimens were obtained atraumatically by crossectomy. Then the veins were treated ex vivo with the ClariVein® catheter without sclerotherapy. The activated catheter rotating tip (3 500 U/min) was steadily withdrawn at 1–2 mm per second. Subsequently, histological and immunohistochemical investigations of treated (cv) and untreated specimens (plain) were performed. A 4‐point score was calculated to compare the results.

Results

The mechanical part of the catheter caused a subtle incomplete destruction of the endothelium (endothelium cv: 2.2 vs. plain: 1, p = 0.04). Changes in the media or adventitia were not seen. Immunohistochemical presentation of the endothelium of the intima was demonstrated with antibodies against CD31 (cv: 3.4 vs. plain: 2.8), CD34 (cv: 3.8 vs. plain: 3.2) and factor VIII (cv: 2.2 vs. plain: 1, p = 0,004).

Conclusions

The mechanical part of the ClariVein® catheter caused a subtle incomplete destruction of endothelium, which was confirmed histologically and immunohistochemically. The reduced expression of factor VIII in the treated vein could be caused by the release of preformed factor VIII granules due to the minimal mechanical irritation.
Downstream drift of round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) and tubenose goby (Proterorhinus semilunaris) in their non‐native area
Authors: Janáč Michal , Šlapanský Luděk , Valová Zdenka , Jurajda Pavel
Published: February 2013

Several Ponto‐Caspian gobiid species have recently expanded their ranges in Europe and North America. This is the first study to demonstrate passive downstream dispersal (drift) of the round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) and tubenose goby (Proterorhinus semilunaris) in newly colonised areas (River Dyje, Danube basin), a factor that could play an important role in their dispersal. Drift duration (i.e. number of dates on which the species was caught) in round goby was longer than that of both native species and tubenose goby, providing a possible advantage. Size of drifting fish was restricted to a narrow range of 6–8 mm and 5–8 mm for round and tubenose goby, respectively. Drift in both species occurred almost completely during hours of darkness (<1 lux) and fish size did not vary throughout the night. In both species, drift density increased significantly during the first hour after dusk. Round goby density gradually decreased up to dawn, while tubenose goby density varied throughout the night with no clear pattern. Drift of early life stages appears to be an important phenomenon that has not received adequate attention in studies of round and tubenose goby ecology and dispersal.
The effect of lake morphometry on thermal habitat use and growth in Arctic charr populations: implications for understanding climate‐change impacts
Authors: Murdoch A. , Power M.
Published: February 2013

Oxygen stable isotope temperature reconstruction methods were used to estimate mean experienced summer temperatures from growth zones within individual Arctic charr otoliths sampled from lakes with contrasting morphologies but proximate locations. For either lake, otolith‐estimated temperatures were not significantly related to back‐calculated growth. Fish in the smaller lake evidenced an increase in growth with age related to increasing use of cooler thermal habitats, with the use of thermal habitat possibly governed by predation risks. No relationships between age, growth or temperature were observed in the larger lake. Significant negative effects on back‐calculated growth were observed due to increasing air temperatures in the smaller and shallower lake, possibly owing to warmer surface and littoral waters and a limited amount of preferred cool‐water habitat. A similar relationship was not observed in the larger and deeper lake and indicated that resident Arctic charr were not as vulnerable to the impacts of temperature warming, possibly because of better behavioural thermoregulation opportunities in the cooler, deeper lake. Results provide evidence for differing climate‐influenced growth outcomes among proximately located populations, with outcomes likely to depend on the differences among habitats, including lake size and morphometry which may act to influence fish densities in available preferred thermal habitats.
Adjuvanted influenza a (H1N1) 2009 vaccine in patients with hematological diseases: good safety and immunogenicity even in chemotherapy‐treated patients
Authors: Cherif Honar , Höglund Martin , Pauksens Karlis
Published: February 2013

Background

Patients with hematological malignancies are more susceptible to viral infections including influenza. In 2009, the World Health Organization classified the novel influenza A (H1N1) virus as pandemic. The potential impact of this pandemic for patients with hematological disorders was unknown. Institutional guidelines recommended two doses of AS03‐adjuvanted influenza A (H1N1) 2009 pandemic vaccine for these patients.

Objectives

We aimed to determine the safety, immunogenicity, and clinical efficacy of this vaccine in patients with hematological diseases. Furthermore, we compared the immunological responses to that obtained by the non‐adjuvanted trivalent seasonal influenza vaccine (TIV).

Methods

All included patients received adjuvanted pandemic vaccine and the majority received TIV. Serum for antibody analyses was collected at five time points.

Results

Thirty‐one patients with different hematological diseases were included. After the second vaccine dose, a total of 25 (81%) reached both protective levels of antibodies and seroconversion response. Antibody titers ≥ 1 : 40 persisted for 50% of responding patients at 1 yr. Seroconversion was observed in 69% of 14 patients who had undergone hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and in all (9/9) patients with myeloma (five with ongoing treatment including high‐dose corticosteroids). After vaccination with TIV, seroconversions against the three included strains were detected in 28%, 40%, and 20%. Response to the adjuvanted pandemic vaccine was superior (P < 0.009).

Conclusions

A substantial proportion of patients with hematological malignancies including patients undergoing chemotherapy mounted a good response to the adjuvanted pandemic vaccine. This vaccine had superior immunogenicity as compared to the non‐adjuvanted TIV.
Fluid channeling along thrust zones: the Lagonegro case history, southern Apennines, Italy
Authors: Gabellone T. , Gasparrini M. , Iannace A. , Invernizzi C. , Mazzoli S. , D'Antonio M.
Published: February 2013

A regional study on late burial, syntectonic dolomites and syntectonic calcite and quartz veins occurring in the hemipelagic Triassic–Jurassic succession of the Lagonegro Basin (southern Apennines) was carried out by integrating fieldwork with structural, fluid inclusion, and geochemical investigations on both surface and subsurface samples. The main goal was to characterize the different parent fluids, channeled along a major, out of sequence thrust zone. We also investigated calcite veins from the deeper tectonic mélange zone. The results point out that the fluids at peak burial conditions, during the first deformation stage, were characterized by temperatures of 120–140°C and salinities averaging 2 wt% NaCl eq. Fluids channeled along the late, out of sequence thrust zone and responsible for partial dolomitization of the succession had lower temperatures (Th = 95 ± 10°C) and salinities in the range of slightly modified to normal marine seawater (mean at 3.7 wt% NaCl eq). Similar low salinities are encountered in late dolomites from other fold‐and‐thrust belts of Italy. The most probable source for the fluids channeled along the investigated out of sequence thrust zone is represented by Miocene marine pore waters expelled from the tectonic mélange zone. A comparison of the Lagonegro dolomites with similar late stages carbonates formed in other fold‐and‐thrust belts suggests that fluid salinities appear to be controlled by the different lithologies of the fold‐and‐thrust belts décollement surfaces.
Predictors of viral pneumonia: The need for viral testing in all patients hospitalized for nursing home‐acquired pneumonia
Authors: Ma Hon Ming , Lee Kin Ping , Woo Jean
Published: February 2013

Aim

Community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) is presumed to be bacterial in origin and empirical antibiotics are almost always given on admission. However, early detection of viral infection is also very important for hospital infection control and timely use of antiviral agents. The present study aimed to compare patients with viral and bacterial pneumonia, and identify independent predictors of viral pneumonia.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was carried out in a tertiary teaching hospital in a 1‐year period. Older patients (aged ≥65 years) were recruited if they were admitted for CAP confirmed by chest radiographs.

Results

A cohort of 488 patients was analyzed. Infective causes were found in 137 (28.1%) patients. Bacterial, viral and mixed infections were detected in 86 (17.6%), 41 (8.4%) and 10 (2.0%) patients, respectively. Bacteriology was established mostly by sputum culture and virology by nasopharyngeal aspirate (NPA) viral culture. The commonest bacterial isolates were Haemophilus influenzae (31), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (15), Mycobacterium tuberculosis (14), Klebsiella spp. (9) and Streptococcus pneumoniae (6). Influenza A virus (28, 8 were pandemic 2009 A/H1N1 subtype) and respiratory syncytial virus (16) were the most frequent viral causes. Independent predictors of viral pneumonia included nursing home residence (RR 3.056, P = 0.009) and absence of leukocytosis (RR 0.425, P = 0.026).

Conclusions

All nursing home residents hospitalized for CAP should undergo NPA viral testing because of infection control, early antiviral treatment and discharge planning. We suggest that empirical antiviral agents might be considered for nursing home residents hospitalized for CAP if outbreaks of influenza‐like illness are reported in nursing homes. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2013; 13: 949–957.
Follicular lymphoma in Taiwan: a low frequency of t(14;18), with grade 3A tumours more closely related to grade 3B than to low‐grade tumours
Authors: Chang Sheng‐Tsung , Lu Yi‐Hsuan , Lu Chin‐Li , Kuo Szu‐Yin , Liu Hongxiang , Lin Shu‐Hui , Win Khin Than , Hsieh Yen‐Chuan , Chuang Shih‐Sung
Published: February 2013

Aims

To investigate t(14;18)/IGH–BCL2 in follicular lymphoma (FL) cases from Taiwan.

Methods and results

We retrospectively studied 93 consecutive cases, using immunohistochemistry and fluorescence in‐situ hybridization (FISH). Fifty‐nine (63%) tumours were low‐grade (LG) and 34 (37%) were high‐grade (HG; 24% FL3A and 13% FL3B). FISH showed IGH, BCL2 and BCL6 rearrangements in 59%, 47% and 11% of cases, respectively, and MYC rearrangement in 5% of FL3A tumours and 25% of FL3B tumours. The translocation partner of all BCL2 rearrangements was IGH, with IGH–BCL2 fusion in 63% of LG tumours and 18% of HG tumours. LG tumours were enriched with a CD10+/bcl‐2+/MUM1‐ phenotype, and were frequently associated with BCL2 rearrangement but less commonly with BCL6 rearrangement. FL3A tumours were more closely related to FL3B tumours than to LG tumours in immunophenotype and genetic aberrations. There was no statistically significant difference between grade 1 and two tumours, between FL3A and FL3B tumours or between nodal and extranodal tumours in immunophenotypic or FISH findings. The cumulative survival rate was higher in LG FL patients with IGH–BCL2 translocation than in those without rearrangement.

Conclusions

In Taiwan, FL3A tumours were more closely related to FL3B tumours than to LG tumours, and a literature review showed that the frequency of t(14;18)/IGH–BCL2 in FL in Taiwan is among the lowest in the world.
Training caregivers: disabilities and dental hygiene
Authors: Gonzalez EE , Nathe CN , Logothetis DD , Pizanis VG , Sanchez‐Dils E
Published: February 2013

Objectives

The purpose of the study was to measure the effectiveness of oral health education and training among caregivers.

Methods

Controlled study design. Participants were randomized from the sample n = 30. n = 14 participants in the experimental group and n = 10 in the control group. The experimental group received a lecture and hands‐on training in oral hygiene procedures. The control group received a facilitated group discussion. Both groups received a pre–post test.

Results

Considering the two groups independently, using a paired t‐test, the experimental group, n = 14 had a score difference of 0.0607 (P‐value = 0.01) and the control group n = 10, had a score difference of 0.035 (P‐value = 0.14).

Conclusion

This study found that knowledge was improved among caregivers following the implementation of formal oral hygiene training. Although the control group also showed some improvements with the facilitated discussion, the results are not significant to say that both the formal training and the facilitated discussion are equally important in training caregivers effectively.
Somatic mitochondrial DNA mutations in Chinese patients with osteosarcoma
Authors: Yu Man , Wan Yanfang , Zou Qinghua
Published: February 2013

Somatic mutations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) have been long proposed to drive the pathogenesis and progression of human malignancies. Previous investigations have revealed a high frequency of somatic mutations in the D‐loop control region of mtDNA in osteosarcoma. However, little is known with regard to whether or not somatic mutations also occur in the coding regions of mtDNA in osteosarcoma. To test this possibility, in the present study we screened somatic mutations over the full‐length mitochondrial genome of 31 osteosarcoma tumour tissue samples, and corresponding peripheral blood samples from the same cohort of patients. We detected a sum of 11 somatic mutations in the mtDNA coding regions in our series. Nine of them were missense or frameshift mutations that have the potential to hamper mitochondrial respiratory function. In combination with our earlier observations on the D‐loop fragment, 71.0% (22/31) of patients with osteosarcoma carried at least one somatic mtDNA mutation, and a total of 40 somatic mutations were identified. Amongst them, 29 (72.5%) were located in the D‐loop region, two (5%) were in the sequences of the tRNA genes, two (5%) were in the mitochondrial ATP synthase subunit 6 gene and seven (17.5%) occurred in genes encoding components of the mitochondrial respiratory complexes. In addition, somatic mtDNA mutation was not closely associated with the clinicopathological characteristics of osteosarcoma. Together, these findings suggest that somatic mutations are highly prevalent events in both coding and non‐coding regions of mtDNA in osteosarcoma. Some missense and frameshift mutations are putatively harmful to proper mitochondrial activity and might play vital roles in osteosarcoma carcinogenesis.
Hypertensive patients' experience with adherence therapy for enhancing medication compliance: a qualitative exploration
Authors: Alhalaiqa Fadwa , Deane Katherine HO , Gray Richard
Published: February 2013

Aims and objectives

To investigate the experience of non‐compliant hypertensive patients who had received seven sessions of adherence therapy (AT) as part of a randomised controlled trial.

Background

AT is a patient‐centred approach used to explore patient attitudes, beliefs and discrepancy toward medications that aimed to enhance patients' medication‐taking behaviour.

Design

Qualitative analysis of semi‐structured interviews with patients who had completed an AT intervention.

Methods

A convenience sample of 10 hypertensive patients who received AT as part of an exploratory randomised controlled trial (ISRCTN99494659) were included. Thematic analysis of semi‐structured interviews exploring patient's views and experiences of AT was used.

Results

Five major themes of AT emerged; modifying attitudes and beliefs, positive impact on self efficacy, therapist motivation, positive impact on well‐being and a well‐designed intervention.

Conclusions

patients' views about the benefit of AT were entirely consistent with our proposed mechanism of action for this intervention; that is by improving patient's beliefs and attitudes regarding taking drugs, and finding solutions to barriers that prevent adherence, patients become more complaint with their medication which in turn has a positive impact on clinical outcomes [i.e. blood pressure, hypertension complication (stroke, myocardial infarction, and recurrent hospitalisation)].

Relevance to clinical practice

Exploring patients' experience with AT and recognising these five elements help in tailoring a new effective strategy according to individual needs for enhancing adherence to prescribed drugs.
Phylogeny and biogeography of the ephemeral Campsurus Eaton (Ephemeroptera, Polymitarcyidae)
Authors: MOLINERI CARLOS , SALLES FREDERICO F.
Published: February 2013

To analyse speciation within the large Neotropical genus Campsurus Eaton, we examined apparent subgroupings by morphological methods using discrete and continuous character states. In this report, the albifilum group is redefined based on redescription of male imagos of Campsurus albifilum from the holotype and fresh material and from four closely related new species: Campsurus yavarin.sp. and C. fuliginatusn.sp. described from male imagos; and C. homaulosn.sp. and C. gracilipenisn.sp. described from imagos of both sexes. An illustrated key to distinguish the male adults of all species in the albifilum group is included. A phylogeny of the group is proposed based on a matrix of seven continuous and 12 discrete characters analysed under implied weights, and includes additional species representing all known or previously proposed groups. This demonstrates the practical application of methods using continuous characters to give additional resolution and support to the phylogeny. The monophyly of the major and the albifilum groups is confirmed. Based on these results, a biogeographical analysis is conducted (spatial analysis of vicariance) based on distributional records for each species. Two main vicariant events are found: (i) a west–east separation in tropical‐subtropical South American lowlands, followed by (ii) a north–south separation of the Amazonas and Paraná regions. Sympatric speciation seems common: most sister species pairs are co‐distributed, and show nonoverlapping ranges in body size.
How a simple adaptive foraging strategy can lead to emergent home ranges and increased food intake
Authors: Nabe‐Nielsen Jacob , Tougaard Jakob , Teilmann Jonas , Lucke Klaus , Forchhammer Mads C.
Published: February 2013

Animals often alternate between searching for food locally and moving over larger distances depending on the amount of food they find. This ability to switch between movement modes can have large implications on the fate of individuals and populations, and a mechanism that allows animals to find the optimal balance between alternative movement strategies is therefore selectively advantageous. Recent theory suggests that animals are capable of switching movement mode depending on heterogeneities in the landscape, and that different modes may predominate at different temporal scales. Here we develop a conceptual model that enables animals to use either an area‐concentrated food search behavior or undirected random movements. The model builds on the animals’ ability to remember the profitability and location of previously visited areas. In contrast to classical optimal foraging models, our model does not assume food to be distributed in large, well‐defined patches, and our focus is on animal movement rather than on how animals choose between foraging patches with known locations and value. After parameterizing the fine‐scale movements to resemble those of the harbor porpoise Phocoena phocoena we investigate whether the model is capable of producing emergent home ranges and use pattern‐oriented modeling to evaluate whether it can reproduce the large‐scale movement patterns observed for porpoises in nature. Finally we investigate whether the model enables animals to forage optimally. We found that the model was indeed able to produce either stable home ranges or movement patterns that resembled those of real porpoises. It enabled animals to maximize their food intake when fine‐tuning the memory parameters that controlled the relative contribution of area concentrated and random movements.