bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Floristic diversity in fire‐sensitive eucalypt woodlands shows a ‘U’‐shaped relationship with time since fire
Authors: Gosper Carl R. , Yates Colin J. , Prober Suzanne M.
Published: July 2013

Understanding ecosystem responses to disturbance is important for effective management of biodiversity. Observed relationships between time since disturbance and diversity have taken a variety of forms, only some of which are explicitly predicted in models of vegetation succession. This makes generalization and predictions for specific communities difficult.

Negative relationships have been the predominant diversity response to time since fire in fire‐prone Mediterranean‐climate ecosystems; however, few studies have analysed responses in infrequently burnt ecosystems such as Mediterranean‐climate woodlands dominated by fire‐sensitive trees. We used a space‐for‐time approach and multiple stand‐ageing techniques (Landsat imagery, growth ring counts and growth ring–size relationships) to characterize diversity and compositional changes with time since fire (3–370+ years) in fire‐sensitive Eucalyptus salubris woodlands in south‐western Australia.

Species density and Pielou's evenness showed an overall ‘U’‐shaped response to time since fire, although variability between plots was considerable. Plant functional type and species composition differed with time since fire, with greater richness and cover of ground layer, and ‘long dispersal potential’ functional types with increasing time since fire. Conversely, there was an early or intermediate peak in taller and ‘short dispersal potential’ functional types.

We propose that the unusual ‘U’‐shaped diversity–time since fire relationship is driven by competitively dominant tree and shrub layers having maximum cover at intermediate times since fire. Subdominant functional types were able to exploit lower levels of competition in the immediate post‐fire period and after density‐dependent thinning of the trees and shrubs.

Synthesis and applications. Recurrent fire is not required to maintain diversity in these fire‐sensitive woodlands as diversity reached a maximum in mature vegetation. Fire intervals of <c. 200 years are likely to have adverse consequences on diversity, which is of conservation concern given apparently high recent rates of occurrence of fire. Changes in diversity were not apparent when times since fire were truncated to those available from remote sensing, illustrating that space‐for‐time studies defined solely by remote sensing may obscure equivalent ‘U’‐shaped diversity–time since fire relationships.
Soil microbial community structure of range‐expanding plant species differs from co‐occurring natives
Authors: Morriën Elly , van der Putten Wim H.
Published: July 2013

Due to global warming and other changes in the environment, many native and exotic plant species show range expansion from lower to higher latitudes. In the new range, the (in)ability of range‐expanding plants to establish associations with local soil microbes can have important consequences for plant abundance; however, very little information exists on rhizosphere communities of range‐expanding plant species. Here, we examine the rhizosphere microbial community composition of range‐expanding plant species in comparison with phylogenetically related species that are native in the invaded range.

We tested the hypothesis that range‐expanding plants species would promote fewer shifts in rhizosphere communities than congeneric natives would. In order to test this, soil was collected from the invaded habitat and six range‐expanding and nine congeneric natives were planted individually in pots to condition soil microbial communities.

After harvesting, individuals of the same species were planted in conditioned own and control soils to test the legacy effects of soil conditioning on biomass production. The control soils were mixtures of soils conditioned by all other plant species, except congenerics. After 10 weeks of plant growth, we determined the rhizosphere community composition of bacteria, fungi, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and Fusarium spp.

All groups of microbes were analysed qualitatively using denaturating gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). Ergosterol was determined as a quantitative measure of nonarbuscular mycorrhizal fungal biomass, and real‐time PCR was applied to detect amounts of Fusarium spp.

Range‐expanding plants had less fungal hyphal biomass and lower amounts of Fusarium spp. in the rhizosphere than congenerics. Bacterial community composition was influenced by a combination of soil conditioning and plant origin, whereas fungal communities, AMF and Fusarium spp. were less pronounced in their responses to the experimental treatments.

Synthesis. We conclude that the lack of legacy effects in range‐expanding plant species compared with natives may be due to differences in bacterial rhizosphere community composition, or to different quantities of potential pathogenic fungi. If the range‐expanding plant species were benefiting more from AMF, effects will not have been due to differences in community composition, but we cannot exclude other options, such as different effectiveness of AMF or other soil biota in the rhizosphere of range‐expanding vs. native plant species. The greater accumulation of bacterial and fungal pathogens in the rhizosphere of natives in relation to range expanders might explain the successful establishment of range‐expanding plants.
Complete genome of a new Firmicutes species belonging to the dominant human colonic microbiota (‘Ruminococcus bicirculans’) reveals two chromosomes and a selective capacity to utilize plant glucans
Authors: Wegmann Udo , Louis Petra , Goesmann Alexander , Henrissat Bernard , Duncan Sylvia H. , Flint Harry J.
Published: July 2013

The recently isolated bacterial strain 80/3 represents one of the most abundant 16S rRNA phylotypes detected in the healthy human large intestine and belongs to the Ruminococcaceae family of Firmicutes. The completed genome sequence reported here is the first for a member of this important family of bacteria from the human colon. The genome comprises two large chromosomes of 2.24 and 0.73 Mbp, leading us to propose the name Ruminococcus bicirculans for this new species. Analysis of the carbohydrate active enzyme complement suggests an ability to utilize certain hemicelluloses, especially β‐glucans and xyloglucan, for growth that was confirmed experimentally. The enzymatic machinery enabling the degradation of cellulose and xylan by related cellulolytic ruminococci is however lacking in this species. While the genome indicated the capacity to synthesize purines, pyrimidines and all 20 amino acids, only genes for the synthesis of nicotinate, NAD+, NADP+ and coenzyme A were detected among the essential vitamins and co‐factors, resulting in multiple growth requirements. In vivo, these growth factors must be supplied from the diet, host or other gut microorganisms. Other features of ecological interest include two type IV pilins, multiple extracytoplasmic function‐sigma factors, a urease and a bile salt hydrolase.
The ECEG database
Authors: Yáñez‐Bouza Nuria , Rodríguez‐Gil María E.
Published: July 2013

This article describes the aims, methodology and contents of the Eighteenth‐Century English Grammars database online (ECEG). Starting with the definition of the term ‘English grammar’ in ECEG, which frames and sets the limits of what has been included in and excluded from the database, we then offer a detailed discussion of its design, compilation and annotation procedures. While describing the data coded in twenty‐one individual relational fields, the article also hints at the potential avenues that the classification in ECEG opens up for academic research and educational purposes.
Notes on eighteenth‐century dictionary grammars
Authors: Tyrkkö Jukka
Published: July 2013

As the volume of new dictionaries and grammars surged during the eighteenth century, one of the natural by‐products was the introduction of brief grammars as part of the preliminaries of dictionaries. This paper looks at what these grammars were like, what purposes they served, who wrote them and how much copying was involved in their production. The argument is made that dictionary grammars were often included for the added value they brought to the books as products, and not for the purpose of providing readers with thorough grammatical knowledge.
Microscopic Analysis of Sharp Force Trauma in Bone and Cartilage: A Validation Study,,
Authors: Crowder Christian , Rainwater Christopher W. , Fridie Jeannette S.
Published: July 2013

Sharp force trauma research lacks agreement on reported error rates for correctly identifying toolmark characteristics on bone and cartilage. This study provides error rates for determining blade class (serrated, partially serrated, nonserrated) and type of edge bevel (left, right, even). Three analysts examined cuts to a wax medium, cartilage, and bone using two types of microscopes. Additionally, the observers examined impressions taken from the wax medium and the cartilage. Overall, a total of 504 observations were performed. Serrated blades were distinguishable from nonserrated blades due to their patterned striations. Some difficulties were encountered in distinguishing serrated and partially serrated blades; however, when these groups were considered together as one classification type (serrated), classification accuracy improved from 79% to 96%. Classification accuracy for edge bevel was 65%. Error rates were similar when comparing direct observation of the cut marks versus indirect observation (impressions). Additionally, the type of microscope used did not affect error rates.
Application of Infrared and Raman Spectroscopy in Paint Trace Examination
Authors: Zięba‐Palus Janina , Trzcińska Beata M.
Published: July 2013

Raman spectroscopy has proved to be a promising technique in forensic examinations, where optical microscopy, micro‐infrared spectroscopy, and microspectrophotometry in the visible and UV range are used for identification and differentiation between paint traces. Often no organic pigments are detected using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, because their content in a trace is usually undetectable. Application of a micro‐Raman spectrometer equipped with several excitation lasers helps forensic experts in paint analysis enabling identification of main pigments. Three cases concerning comparative examination of car paint are discussed in detail. The comparison of Raman spectra of paint chips found on clothing of a victim or smears found on body of a damaged car to these of paint chips originated from the suspected car enabled us to identify the car involved in the accident. When no comparative material is available, the method can be useful in establishing the color and make of the car.
The Fatal Poisoning Pattern of Ankara (Turkey) and Nearby Cities from 2007 to June 2011: A Retrospective Study in Forensic Autopsies
Authors: Karaarslan Bekir , Karapirli Mustafa , Kandemir Eyup , Kucuker Hudaverdi , Gurler Mukaddes , Ince Cengiz Haluk , Akyol Omer
Published: July 2013

We aimed to obtain an outline of the nature and number of fatal poisonings which still appear to affect widely the population in Turkey. A total of 5921 forensic autopsies were performed between 2007 and 2011 in Ankara and nearby cities and 366 of them were fatal poisonings (219 male, 147 female). Most of the cases were between 41 and 60 years old (n = 84). Most of the fatalities were reported during winter months (48.1%). Carbon monoxide exposure was the most common reason (66.7%) within all the causes followed by medicine and narcotics (13.9%). Postmortem blood alcohol concentrations in ethyl and methyl alcohol poisonings were 385.1 ± 61.9 and 206.8 ± 138.9 mg/dL, respectively. The most common location of deaths was home (71.3%). Fatal poisonings have been a growing global problem because of some shortcomings about the socioeconomic conditions and increasing illicit drug abuse. The level of education, socioeconomic conditions, and legal approaches are very important for the prevention fatal poisonings.
Workplace Assessment of Targeted Violence Risk: The Development and Reliability of theWAVR‐21
Authors: Meloy J. Reid , White Stephen G. , Hart Stephen
Published: July 2013

This study describes the development of theWAVR‐21, a structured professional judgment guide for the assessment of workplace targeted violence, and presents initial interrater reliability results. The 21‐item instrument codes both static and dynamic risk factors and change, if any, over time. Five critical items or red flag indicators assess violent motives, ideation, intent, weapons skill, and pre‐attack planning. Additional items assess the contribution of mental disorder, negative personality factors, situational factors, and a protective factor. Eleven raters each rated 12 randomly assigned cases from actual files of workplace threat scenarios. Summary interrater reliability correlation coefficients (ICCs) for overall presence of risk factors, risk of violence, and seriousness of the violent act were in the fair to good range, similar to other structured professional judgment instruments. A subgroup of psychologists who were coders produced anICCof 0.76 for overall presence of risk factors. Some of the individual items had poor reliability for both clinical and statistical reasons. TheWAVR‐21 appears to improve the structuring and organizing of empirically based risk‐relevant data and may enhance communication and decision making.
Cervical Arterial Injury After Strangulation—Different Types of Arterial Lesions
Authors: Le Blanc‐Louvry Isabelle , Papin Fréderique , Vaz Emmanuelle , Proust Bernard
Published: July 2013

After strangulation, cervical arterial injuries (CAI) are uncommon. We report three unusual cases where strangulation induced immediate stroke. CAI were examined using brain CT scan and Doppler ultrasonography in the three cases and then by autopsy in one of the victims. One of the two victims who survived the attempted strangulation had a unilateral carotid dissection, whereas in the other victim, no arterial dissection or thrombosis was observed. As regards the deceased victim, the autopsy confirmed the bilateral dissection showed on CT scan and Doppler ultrasonic examination and revealed that both carotid arteries were dilated up to two times the normal diameter. Microscopic examination showed a major bilateral hemorrhagic dissection of the media with obliterating fibrous endarteritis lesions associated with inflammatory damage. CT scan with arteriography does not demonstrate all the different types of arterial injury, particularly atheromatous embolism, direct compression, or prolonged spasm. Thus, traditional autopsy remains an essential forensic tool after strangulation to show the type of CAI.
Causes of Sudden Death in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Zhang MingChang , Li Ling , Fowler David , Zhao Ziqin , Wei Dengming , Zhang Yang , Burke Allen
Published: July 2013

There are few autopsy studies of patients dying suddenly with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Twenty‐five forensic autopsies of unexpected sudden death in individuals with OSA were reviewed. The causes of death were as follows: cardiomyopathy (n = 11); sudden unexpected death without morphologic findings (SUDNA, n = 6); and other cardiovascular diseases not related to OSA (n = 8). The cardiomyopathy group comprised five hearts with concentric left ventricular hypertrophy without dilatation and six with left ventricular diameter >4 cm (dilated cardiomyopathy). Four of six hearts in the SUDNA group showed right ventricular dilatation compared with seven of 11 showed cardiomyopathy and one of eight miscellaneous. The degree of obesity was greatest in the dilated cardiomyopathy group (10 of 11 obese) followed by the SUDNA group (four of six obese). The cardiac findings in patients dying suddenly and unexpectedly with OSA include nonspecific cardiomyopathy, other cardiac conditions, and hearts without a morphologic cause of death, which show frequent right ventricular dilatation as the only finding.
The influence of planting date, transgenic Bt maize and hybrid relative maturity on European corn borer Ostrinia nubilalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) ovipositional patterns
Authors: Obopile Motshwari , Hammond Ronald B.
Published: July 2013

A three year study was carried out at Hoytville and at Wooster, Ohio, USA from 2006 to 2008 to investigate the influence of planting date, transgenic maize and hybrid maturity on Ostrinia nubilalis (Hubner) population dynamics and oviposition patterns. Maize plants were planted in late April or early May, mid‐May and early June during each year. The moth flight pattern showed bivoltine generations during the three years. The first moth flight peaked in June, with the populations declining during July. The second moth flight peaked in August and declined towards the end of September or early October. Egg mass density did not differ significantly between transgenic and non‐transgenic maize of different maturities. Significant differences were observed, however, among planting dates, sampling dates, and sampling date × planting date interactions. Generally higher numbers of egg masses from second generation moths were deposited on late planted maize than middle and early plantings.
Effect of Pretreatment with Dehulling and Microwaving on the Flavor Characteristics of Cold‐Pressed Rapeseed Oil by GC‐MS‐PCA and Electronic Nose Discrimination
Authors: Zhou Qi , Yang Mei , Huang Fenghong , Zheng Chang , Deng Qianchun
Published: July 2013

Raw and dehulled rapeseeds were treated with microwave energy (800 W) from 1 to 8 min with 1‐min intervals at a frequency of 2450 MHz to investigate the influence of microwaving and dehulling pretreatment on the flavor characteristics of rapeseed oil extracted by pressing. Headspace solid phase microextraction was used to isolate the volatile compounds of rapeseed oil, which were then identified by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry analysis. The results indicated that microwave and dehulling pretreatment of rapeseed can significantly influence the kinds and content of volatile compounds. The key flavor compounds in rapeseed oil were oxidized volatiles, heterocyclic compounds, and degradation products of glucosinolates. A pungent compound, 4‐isothiocyanato‐1‐butene, was reduced by 97% in rapeseed treated for 3 min with microwaves energy when compared to the rapeseed oil without any treatment. The pyrazine compounds in the oil appeared after 6 min of microwave pretreatment and give a pleasant roasting flavor when compared to crude oils. Principal component analysis was able to differentiate between oils obtained using 4 pretreatment processes based on volatile compounds and electronic nose. The results showed that dehulling pretreatment could improve the flavor, yet microwaving had a greater effect on the flavor of rapeseed oils.
Patients harboring epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) double mutations had a lower objective response rate than those with a single mutation in non‐small cell lung cancer when treated with EGFR‐tyrosine kinase inhibitors
Authors: Wei Zhigang , An Tongtong , Wang Zhijie , Chen Keneng , Bai Hua , Zhu Guangying , Duan Jianchun , Wu Meina , Yang Lu , Zhuo Minglei , Wang Yuyan , Liu Xuyi , Wang Jie
Published: July 2013

Background

Multiple prospective studies have demonstrated that epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) exon 19 and exon 21 mutations are the most powerful predictive biomarkers of response to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in advanced non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, there are few studies focused on patients with double mutations compared with a single mutation.

Methods

We retrospectively screened 1,525 samples of Chinese patients with advanced NSCLC who underwent EGFR mutation detections in tumor tissues at Peking University Cancer Hospital between February 2006 and March 2011. Thirty‐two cases harboring double mutations were included in this study. The Kaplan‐Meier univariate analysis for prognostic factors of survival was applied.

Results

Patients with double mutations accounted for 2.1% (32/1525) of the overall tested samples. Double mutations were more common in female, adenocarcinoma, non‐smokers, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG0)‐1 and stage IV patients. Twenty‐one patients with double mutations were treated with EGFR‐TKIs. The objective response rate (ORR) was 23.8%, and the disease control rate (DCR) was 76.2%. In the first‐line therapy, the ORR was 16.7%, and the DCR was 66.7%. In univariate analysis, gender, smoking‐status, TKI type and TKI response were correlated with progression‐free survival, and patients with ECOG 0–1 had longer overall survival.

Conclusions

Patients with double mutations had a low objective response rate when treated with EGFR‐TKIs compared with single EGFR exon 19 or exon 21 mutations.
Microsatellite markers of genetic diversity and population structure of Carica papaya
Authors: Matos E.L.S. , Oliveira E.J. , Jesus O.N. , Dantas J.L.L.
Published: July 2013

We assessed the genetic diversity of 96 papaya accessions by molecular characterisation using microsatellite markers. Fifteen polymorphic primers were selected. Accessions, which were classified as Common, Formosa and Solo according to fruit types, were evaluated for allele frequency, heterozygosity, polymorphism information content (PIC), inbreeding coefficient (f) and the genetic diversity structure. Fifteen primers amplified 68 alleles with an average of 4.53 per locus. PIC values ranged from 0.19 to 0.69. The observed heterozygosity (HO) was low for all selected microsatellites. High f estimates (0.58) and excess of homozygotes indicated inbreeding, mainly caused by the tendency to select hermaphrodite plants for succeeding generations. Analysis of molecular variance showed that most of the variation (98%) resides within subpopulation. The genetic analysis based on Bayesian statistics proved to be sensitive enough to detect relationships among the papaya accessions, grouping them into six clusters, irrespective of their classification types.
Genome‐wide in silico screening for microRNA genetic variability in livestock species
Authors: Jevsinek Skok D. , Godnic I. , Zorc M. , Horvat S. , Dovc P. , Kovac M. , Kunej T.
Published: July 2013

MicroRNAs are a class of non‐coding RNAs that post‐transcriptionally regulate target gene expression. Previous studies have shown that microRNA gene variability can interfere with its function, resulting in phenotypic variation. Polymorphisms within microRNA genes present a source of novel biomarkers for phenotypic traits in animal breeding. However, little is known about microRNA genetic variability in livestock species, which is also due to incomplete data in genomic resource databases. Therefore, the aim of this study was to perform a genome‐wide in silico screening of genomic sources and determine the genetic variability of microRNA genes in livestock species using mirna sniper 3.0 (http://www.integratomics-time.com/miRNA-SNiPer/), a new version of our previously developed tool. By examining Ensembl and miRBase genome builds, it was possible to design a tool‐based generated search of 16 genomes including four livestock species: pig, horse, cattle and chicken. The analysis revealed 65 polymorphisms located within mature microRNA regions in these four species, including 28% within the seed region in cattle and chicken. Polymorphic microRNA genes in cattle and chicken were further examined for mapping to quantitative trait loci regions associated with production and health traits. The developed bioinformatics tool enables the analysis of polymorphic microRNA genes and prioritization of potential regulatory polymorphisms and therefore contributes to the development of microRNA‐based biomarkers in livestock species. The assembled catalog and the developed tool can serve the animal science community to efficiently select microRNA SNPs for further quantitative and molecular genetic evaluations of their phenotypic effects and causal associations with livestock production traits.
Participatory and evidence‐based recommendations for urban redevelopment following natural disasters: Older adults as policy advisers
Authors: Annear Michael , Keeling Sally , Wilkinson Tim
Published: July 2013

Aim

To develop community‐generated recommendations to inform urban environmental remediation following earthquakes in Christchurch, New Zealand, and share these with local decision‐makers during a participatory action research process.

Methods

This study employed three focus group discussions to critique mixed‐methods and multiphase results and develop evidence‐based recommendations. Participants included 30 volunteers and 8 knowledgeable advisers aged 65 years and older.

Results

Participant recommendations addressed the remediation of earthquake‐affected suburbs, access to transportation, age‐friendly design, safer communities, resilient support agencies, and restoration of resources for social and cultural activities.

Conclusion

Older collaborators identified salient barriers to active ageing and options for post‐earthquake redevelopment that had not previously been considered in research or policy. Independently living older adults are well placed to work with researchers to develop recommendations to improve the urban environment following natural disasters as well as in times of relative stability.
Effects of the estrous cycle on the efficacy of oocyte collection and in vitro embryo production in Duroc‐breed
Authors: Misumi Koji , Hirayama Yuri , Suzuki Misae , Nakai Michiko , Noguchi Junko , Kaneko Hiroyuki , Kikuchi Kazuhiro
Published: July 2013

Collection efficacy and in vitro embryo developmental ability of oocytes obtained from Duroc‐breed ovary donors at different stages of the estrous cycle (days 6, 12 and 16 after estrus) were performed. The numbers of collected oocytes did not differ significantly among the different estrous cycle groups (total 72–90 oocytes per gilt). However, the blastocyst rates of oocytes collected on days 12 and 16 (9.2% and 19.4%, respectively) were significantly higher than those on day 6 (1.1%). More oocytes were obtained on day 16 from small follicles (<2 mm in diameter; 85.3 oocytes per gilt) than from medium‐sized (≥2–<6 mm) and large (≥6 mm) follicles (17.5 and 12.8 oocytes, respectively). The blastocyst rates in both the medium‐sized and large follicle groups (20.0% and 19.2%, respectively) were significantly higher than that in the small follicle group (6.3%). The blastocyst cell numbers in both the medium‐sized and large follicle groups (39.4 and 43.3 cells, respectively) were significantly higher than that in the small follicle group (30.6 cells). The results suggest that oocyte collection from cycling Duroc pigs can be carried out efficiently from the late luteal to follicular stage. Those oocytes collected from medium‐sized and large follicles show better embryo development.
Correspondence in forest species composition between the Vegetation Map of Africa and higher resolution maps for seven African countries
Authors: Kindt Roeland , Lillesø Jens‐Peter B. , van Breugel Paulo , Bingham Michael , Demissew Sebsebe , Dudley Cornell , Friis Ib , Gachathi Francis , Kalema James , Mbago Frank , Moshi Heriel N. , Mulumba John W. , Namaganda Mary , Ndangalasi Henry J. , Ruffo Christopher K. , Minani Védaste , Jamnadass Ramni H. , Graudal Lars
Published: July 2013

Question

How well does the forest classification system of the 1:5,000,000 vegetation map of Africa developed by Frank White correspond with classification systems and more extensive information on species assemblages of higher resolution maps developed for Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia?

Methods

We reviewed various national and sub‐national vegetation maps for their potential in increasing the resolution of the African map. Associated documentation was consulted to compile species assemblages, and to identify indicator species, for national forest vegetation types. Indicator species were identified for each regional forest type by selecting those species that, among all the species listed for the same phytochorion (regional centre of endemism), were listed only for that forest type. For each of the national forest types, we counted the number of indicator species of the anticipated regional type. Floristic relationships (expressed by four different ecological distance measures) among national forest types were investigated based on distance‐based redundancy analysis, permutational multivariate analysis of variance (PERMANOVA) using distance matrices and hierarchical clustering.

Results

For most of the national forests, the analysis of indicator species and floristic relationships confirmed the regional classification system for the majority of national forest types, including the allocation to different phytochoria. Permutation tests confirmed allocation of national forest types to regional typologies, although the number of possible permutations limited inferences for the Zambezian and Lake Victoria phytochoria. Two forest types from Ethiopia and Kenya did not correspond to regional forest types.

Conclusions

Our analysis provides support that as the classification systems are compatible, the resolution and information content of the vegetation map of Africa can be directly improved by adding information from national maps, probably leading to improved liability of its application domains. We found statistical evidence for a distinct Afromontane phytochorion. We suggest expanding the regional forest classification system with ‘Afromontane moist transitional forest’. Among the various application domains of the higher resolution maps, these maps allow for an enhanced phytochoristic analysis of eastern Africa.
Impact of psychotropic drugs on suicide and suicidal behaviors
Authors: Yerevanian Boghos I , Choi Young Mee
Published: July 2013

Objective

To examine the impact of psychotropic drugs on suicide and suicidal behaviors in bipolar disorders.

Methods

A Medline search of articles published from January 1960 to January 2013 was performed using relevant keywords to identify studies examining the relationship of psychotropic drugs to suicidal behaviors. The publications were further reviewed for relevant references and information. Additionally, the US Food and Drug Administration Center for Drug Evaluation Research website was searched.

Results

The available studies used differing methodologies, making interpretation of the findings difficult. Studies suggest that antidepressants may increase suicidal risk in bipolar disorder, this possibly being related to the induction of broadly defined mixed states. There is no evidence that antiepileptic drugs as a class increase suicidal risk in patients with bipolar disorder. Only lithium provides convincing data that it reduces the risk of suicide over the long term. There is little known regarding the effects of antipsychotics, as well as anti‐anxiety and hypnotic drugs, on suicidal behavior.

Conclusions

The available evidence for the impact of psychotropics on suicidal risk in patients with bipolar disorder is largely methodologically flawed and, except for a few instances, clinically not useful at this point. Adequately powered, prospective randomized controlled studies are needed to assess the impact of each class of psychotropic and each psychotropic as well as common combination therapies. Until such studies have been carried out, clinicians are urged to exercise caution in using these drugs and rely on the traditional means of carefully assessing and monitoring patients with bipolar disorder who are at high risk for suicide.
Biallelic losses of 13q do not confer a poorer outcome in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia: analysis of 627 patients with isolated 13q deletion
Authors: Puiggros Anna , Delgado Julio , Rodriguez‐Vicente Ana , Collado Rosa , Aventín Anna , Luño Elisa , Grau Javier , Hernandez José Ángel , Marugán Isabel , Ardanaz Maite , González Teresa , Valiente Alberto , Osma Mar , Calasanz Maria José , Sanzo Carmen , Carrió Ana , Ortega Margarita , Santacruz Rodrigo , Abrisqueta Pau , Abella Eugènia , Bosch Francesc , Carbonell Félix , Solé Francesc , Hernández Jesús Maria , Espinet Blanca ,   Grupo Cooperativo Español de Citogenética Hematológica (GCECGH) and Grupo Español de Leucemia Linfática Crónica (GELLC).
Published: July 2013

Losses in 13q as a sole abnormality confer a good prognosis in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL). Nevertheless, its heterogeneity has been demonstrated and the clinical significance of biallelic 13q deletions remains controversial. We compared the clinico‐biological characteristics of a series of 627 patients harbouring isolated 13q deletions by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), either monoallelic (13q × 1), biallelic (13q × 2), or the coexistence of both clones (13qM). The most frequent 13q deletion was 13q × 1 (82·1%), while 13q × 2 and 13qM represented 8·6% and 9·3% of patients respectively. The median percentage of altered nuclei significantly differed across groups: 55%, 72·5% and 80% in 13q × 1, 13q × 2 and 13qM (P < 0·001). However, no significant differences in the clinical outcome among 13q groups were found. From 84 patients with sequential FISH studies, eight patients lost the remaining allele of 13q whereas none of them changed from 13q × 2 to the 13q × 1 group. The percentage of abnormal cells detected by FISH had a significant impact on the five‐year cumulative incidence of treatment and the overall survival, 90% being the highest predictive power cut‐off. In conclusion, loss of the remaining 13q allele is not enough to entail a worse prognosis in CLL. The presence of isolated 13q deletion can be risk‐stratified according to the percentage of altered cells.
Prostate‐specific antigen doubling time as a progression criterion in an active surveillance programme for patients with localized prostate cancer
Authors: Thomsen Frederik Birkebæk , Christensen Ib Jarle , Brasso Klaus , Røder Martin Andreas , Iversen Peter
Published: July 2013

Objectives

To elucidate the role of prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) doubling time (PSAdt) as a progression criterion in patients with low‐risk prostate cancer managed by active surveillance (AS).

To assess the correlation between PSAdt during AS and final histopathology after radical prostatectomy (RP) in patients meeting predefined progression criteria.

Patients and Methods

A total of 258 consecutive patients on an AS programme were included in the study.

The PSAdt was calculated in patients with two or more PSA values, and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated in patients with four or more PSA values.

Progression risk groups were defined as follows: high‐risk: PSAdt <3 years, rebiopsy Gleason score (GS) ≥4 + 3, more than three positive biopsy cores, and/or bilateral tumour or cT ≥2c disease; intermediate‐risk: PSAdt 3–5 years, GS = 3 + 4 or cT2b disease; and low‐risk: PSAdt >5 years, without histopathological or clinical progression.

Definitive treatment was recommended for patients in the high‐risk group and treatment options were discussed with those in the intermediate‐risk group.

Results

A total of 2291 PSA values obtained during AS were available, of which 2071 were considered valid in the 258 patients.

PSAdt values with 95% CIs were calculated in 221 patients based on a median of 8 PSA values.

The 95% CIs for PSAdt overlapped considerably and in up to 91% of the patients, the 95% CIs overlapped among the risk group definitions.

A total of 26% (68/258 patients) underwent RP after meeting the progression criteria.

There was no association between preoperative PSAdt and final histopathology (P = 0.87).

Conclusion

The uncertainty of calculated PSAdt during AS leads to a significant risk of patients being misclassified in terms of risk of progression, which limits the use of PSAdt in the management of patients on AS.
Assessment of Leishmanicidal and Trypanocidal Activities of Aliphatic Diamine Derivatives
Authors: Yamanaka Celina N. , Giordani Raquel B. , Rezende Celso O. , Eger Iriane , Kessler Rafael L. , Tonini Maiko L. , de Moraes Milene H. , Araújo Debora P. , Zuanazzi Jose A. , de Almeida Mauro V. , Steindel Mario
Published: July 2013

Leishmanicidal and trypanocidal activity of seventeen lipophilic diamines was evaluated in vitro against Leishmania braziliensis, L. chagasi, and Trypanosoma cruzi. Twelve compounds presented anti‐Leishmania and six showed anti‐T. cruzi amastigote activity. Compound 14 (N‐tetradecyl‐1,4‐butanediamine) was the most active against both L. braziliensis (IC50 = 2.6 μm) and L. chagasi (IC50 = 3.0 μm) which showed a selectivity index (SI) >100. N‐decyl‐1,6‐hexanediamine (compound 9) presented an IC50 = 1.6 μm and SI >187 and was over six times more potent than the reference drug benznidazole against T. cruzi. Treatment of infected or uninfected macrophages with compounds 9 and 14 did not induce significant TNFα and NO production. Four compounds (15, 16, 22, and 23) inhibited 78.9%, 77.7%, 83.7%, and 70.1% of rTRLb activity, respectively, and compound 23 inhibited 73.3% of rTRTc activity at 100 μm. A concentration‐dependent effect on mitochondrial membrane depolarization was observed in T. cruzi epimastigotes treated with compound 9, suggesting this mechanism may be involved in the trypanocidal effect. On the contrary, in L. braziliensis promastigotes treated with compound 14, no mitochondrial depolarization was observed. Our results demonstrate that N‐decyl‐1,6‐hexanediamine and N‐tetradecyl‐1,4‐butanediamine are promising molecules for the development of novel leading compounds against T. cruzi and Leishmania spp., particularly given a possible alternative mechanism of action.
Adolescents' Selective Visual Attention for High‐Status Peers: The Role of Perceiver Status and Gender
Authors: Lansu Tessa A. M. , Cillessen Antonius H. N. , Karremans Johan C.
Published: July 2013

Previous research has shown that adolescents' attention for a peer is determined by the peer's status. This study examined how it is also determined by the status of the perceiving adolescent, and the gender of both parties involved (perceiver and perceived). Participants were 122 early adolescents (M age = 11.0 years) who completed sociometric measures and eye‐tracking recordings of visual fixations at pictures of high‐status (popular) and low‐status (unpopular) classmates. Automatic attention (first‐gaze preference) and controlled attention (total gaze time) were measured. Target popularity was associated with both measures of attention. These associations were further moderated by perceiver popularity and perceiver and target gender. Popular adolescents attracted attention especially from other popular adolescents. Popular boys attracted attention especially from girls.
Epidemiological associations of allergy, IgE and cancer
Authors: Josephs D. H. , Spicer J. F. , Corrigan C. J. , Gould H. J. , Karagiannis S. N.
Published: July 2013

Several epidemiological studies have evaluated potential associations between allergy and risk of malignancy. It remains clear that the relationship between allergy and cancer is complex. Three hypotheses have been proposed to account for observed relationships: these are chronic inflammation, immunosurveillance, prophylaxis, and we propose adding a fourth: inappropriate T‐helper 2 (Th2) immune skewing. Each of these attempts to explain either the increased or decreased risk of different cancer types in ‘allergic’ patients reported in the literature. All four hypotheses are based on known mechanisms of allergic inflammation and/or IgE antibody functions, and uphold the view of an immunological basis for the relationship between allergy and malignancies. This review summarizes and draws conclusions from the epidemiological literature examining the relationships between specific types of cancer and allergic diseases. Particular emphasis is placed on the most recent contributions to the field, and on consideration of the allergic immune mechanisms that may influence positive or negative associations.
Retinoic acid-producing,ex-vivo-generated human tolerogenic dendritic cells induce the proliferation of immunosuppressive B lymphocytes
Authors: Di Caro V , Phillips B , Engman C , Harnaha J , Trucco M , Giannoukakis N
Published: July 2013

While much is known about tolerogenic dendritic cell effects on forkhead box protein 3 (FoxP3)+ regulatory T cells, virtually nothing is known about their effects on another arm of immunoregulation that is mediated by a subpopulation of immunosuppressive B cells. These cells suppress rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and inflammatory bowel disease in mice, and functional defects have been reported in human lupus. We show that co-stimulation-impaired tolerogenic dendritic cells that prevent and reverse type 1 diabetes mellitus induce the proliferation of human immunosuppressive B cells in vitro. We also show that the suppressive properties of these B cells concentrate inside the CD19+CD24+ B cell population and more specifically inside the CD19+CD24+CD38+ regulatory B cell population. We discovered that B cell conversion into suppressive cells in vitro is partially dependent on dendritic cell production of retinoic acid and also that CD19+CD24+CD38+ B regulatory cells express retinoic acid receptors. Taken together, our data suggest a model whereby part of the immunosuppressive properties of human tolerogenic dendritic cells could be mediated by retinoic acid which, in addition to its known role in favouring T cell differentiation to FoxP3+ regulatory T cells, acts to convert B cells into immunosuppressive cells.
Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signalling is increased in rheumatoid synovium but TGF-β blockade does not modify experimental arthritis
Authors: Gonzalo-Gil E , Criado G , Santiago B , Dotor J , Pablos J L , Galindo M
Published: July 2013

The aim of this study was to analyse the distribution of regulatory and inhibitory mothers against decapentaplegic homologue (Smad) proteins as markers of active transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signalling in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) synovial tissue and to investigate the effect of TGF-β blockade in the development and progression of collagen-induced arthritis. The expression of Smad proteins in synovial tissues from RA, osteoarthritic and healthy controls was analysed by immunohistochemistry. Arthritis was induced in DBA/1 mice by immunization with chicken type-II collagen (CII). TGF-β was blocked in vivo with the specific peptide p17 starting at the time of immunization or on the day of arthritis onset. T cell population frequencies and specific responses to CII were analysed. The expression of cytokines and transcription factors was quantified in spleen and joint samples. Statistical differences between groups were compared using the Mann–Whitney U-test or one-way analysis of variance (anova) using the Kruskal–Wallis test. p-Smad-2/3 and inhibitory Smad-7 expression were detected in RA and control tissues. In RA, most lymphoid infiltrating cells showed nuclear p-Smad-2/3 without Smad-7 expression. Treatment with TGF-β antagonist did not affect clinical severity, joint inflammation and cartilage damage in collagen-induced arthritis. Frequency of T cell subsets, mRNA levels of cytokines and transcription factors, specific proliferation to CII, serum interleukin (IL)-6 and anti-CII antibodies were comparable in p17 and phosphate-buffered saline (PBS)-treated groups. The pattern of Smad proteins expression demonstrates active TGF-β signalling in RA synovium. However, specific TGF-β blockade does not have a significant effect in the mice model of collagen-induced arthritis.
Intraperitoneal insulin delivery to patients with type 1 diabetes results in higher serum IGF‐I bioactivity than continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion
Authors: Hedman Christina A. , Frystyk Jan , Lindström Torbjörn , Oskarsson Per , Arnqvist Hans J.
Published: July 2013

Objective

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is associated with low IGF‐I and altered levels of IGF‐binding proteins (IGFBPs) in plasma. This may be of importance for insulin sensitivity and the risk of developing diabetic complications. We hypothesized that IGF‐I bioactivity is affected by the route of insulin administration and that continuous intraperitoneal insulin infusion (CIPII) has a more pronounced effect than continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII).

Design and methods

We compared 10 patients with T1D on CIPII with 20 age‐ and sex‐matched patients on CSII. Blood sampling was carried out 7–9 am after an overnight fast. All patients were C‐peptide negative. IGF‐I bioactivity was measured in vitro using a specific IGF‐I kinase receptor activation (KIRA) assay. IGF‐I was also measured by immunoassay together with IGF‐II, IGFBP‐1 and IGFBP‐2.

Results

When compared with subcutaneous insulin, intraperitoneal insulin resulted in (CIPII vs CSII) higher IGF‐I bioactivity (1·83 ± 0·76 vs 1·16 ± 0·24 μg/l; P = 0·02), IGF‐I (120 ± 35 vs 81 ± 19 μg/l; P = 0·01) and IGF‐II (1050 ± 136 vs 879 ± 110 μg/l; P = 0·02). By contrast, log‐transformed IGFBP‐1 was reduced (P = 0·013), whereas log‐transformed IGFBP‐2 was not different (P = 0·12). There was a positive correlation between IGF bioactivity and IGF‐I (r = 0·69; P < 0·001) and an inverse correlation between IGF‐I bioactivity and log10 IGFBP‐1 (r = −0·68, P < 0·001).

Conclusion

The in vitro IGF‐I bioactivity was higher in patients treated with CIPII compared with CSII supporting the theory that the route of insulin administration is of importance for the activity of the IGF system. Intraperitoneal insulin administration may therefore be beneficial by correcting the alterations of the IGF system in T1D.
Sorted Deferred Shading for Production Path Tracing
Authors: Eisenacher Christian , Nichols Gregory , Selle Andrew , Burley Brent
Published: July 2013

Ray‐traced global illumination (GI) is becoming widespread in production rendering but incoherent secondary ray traversal limits practical rendering to scenes that fit in memory. Incoherent shading also leads to intractable performance with production‐scale textures forcing renderers to resort to caching of irradiance, radiosity, and other values to amortize expensive shading. Unfortunately, such caching strategies complicate artist workflow, are difficult to parallelize effectively, and contend for precious memory. Worse, these caches involve approximations that compromise quality. In this paper, we introduce a novel path‐tracing framework that avoids these tradeoffs. We sort large, potentially out‐of‐core ray batches to ensure coherence of ray traversal. We then defer shading of ray hits until we have sorted them, achieving perfectly coherent shading and avoiding the need for shading caches.
Optimizing Disparity for Motion in Depth
Authors: Kellnhofer Petr , Ritschel Tobias , Myszkowski Karol , Seidel Hans‐Peter
Published: July 2013

Beyond the careful design of stereo acquisition equipment and rendering algorithms, disparity post‐processing has recently received much attention, where one of the key tasks is to compress the originally large disparity range to avoid viewing discomfort. The perception of dynamic stereo content however, relies on reproducing the full disparity‐time volume that a scene point undergoes in motion. This volume can be strongly distorted in manipulation, which is only concerned with changing disparity at one instant in time, even if the temporal coherence of that change is maintained. We propose an optimization to preserve stereo motion of content that was subject to an arbitrary disparity manipulation, based on a perceptual model of temporal disparity changes. Furthermore, we introduce a novel 3D warping technique to create stereo image pairs that conform to this optimized disparity map. The paper concludes with perceptual studies of motion reproduction quality and task performance in a simple game, showing how our optimization can achieve both viewing comfort and faithful stereo motion.