bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A positive real‐time elastography is an independent marker for detection of high‐risk prostate cancers in the primary biopsy setting
Authors: Nygård Yngve , Haukaas Svein A. , Halvorsen Ole J. , Gravdal Karsten , Frugård Jannicke , Akslen Lars A. , Beisland Christian
Published: August 2013

Objective

To evaluate the performance of real‐time elastography (RTE) in an initial biopsy setting.

Patients and Methods

In the period from February 2011 to June 2012, 127 consecutive patients were included in the study.

We used a Hitachi Preirus with Hi‐RTE module, a prostate end‐fire transrectal probe was used for RTE and for targeted biopsies, and a simultaneous biplane probe was used for the standard systematic biopsies.

The peripheral zone of the prostate was divided into six regions, and each biopsy obtained was referred to a specific region.

All patients were first examined with RTE and, if cancer was suspected, targeted biopsies were taken. A standard systematic 10‐core biopsy was then taken in all patients.

Results

In all, 64 (50%) patients were diagnosed with prostate cancer in the initial biopsy setting. Three patients were diagnosed solely on RTE‐targeted biopsies, 31 were found only in systematic biopsies, and 30 were correctly diagnosed with both methods.

In the RTE‐positive group there was a significantly higher frequency of positive cores, a lower prostate volume, a higher Gleason score, and a higher fraction of cancer tissue in each core.

In a multiple regression model RTE was an independent marker for high‐risk cancer.

The sensitivity of 42% for all prostate cancers increased to 60% for high‐grade prostate cancers.

Similarly, the negative predictive value increased from 79% to 97%. An additional eight patients were diagnosed with prostate cancer during the study period.

Conclusions

A positive RTE is an independent marker for detection of high‐risk prostate cancer, and a negative RTE argues against such.

RTE with targeted biopsies cannot replace systematic biopsies, but provides valuable additional information about the tumours.
Urinary tract stone raises subsequent risk for urinary tract cancer: a population‐based cohort study
Authors: Sun Li‐Min , Lin Cheng‐Li , Chang Yen‐Jung , Liang Ji‐An , Liu Shu‐Hui , Sung Fung‐Chang , Kao Chia‐Hung
Published: August 2013

Objective

To evaluate the association between urinary tract stone (UTS) and urinary tract cancer (UTC) in Taiwanese patients, as the results of epidemiological studies about the relationship between UTS and the development of UTC remain inconclusive.

Patients/Subjects and Methods

We conducted a population‐based cohort study using data from the Taiwanese National Health Insurance system. The UTS cohort included 21 862 patients, and each patient was randomly frequency‐matched for age, sex, and index year with two insured members of the general population who did not have UTS.

Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was performed to estimate the effect of UTS on the risk of UTC.

Results

Patients with UTS were at a significantly higher risk of developing UTC compared with the comparison group (adjusted hazard ratio 4.66; 95% confidence interval 2.97–7.30).

Women were at higher risk than men.

Further analyses showed that the level of UTC was associated with that of UTS, and that the risk for UTC became more divergent for the two groups over time.

Conclusions

Taiwanese patients with UTS, particularly women, had a higher risk for developing UTC than patients without UTS. The risk became more marked over time for this group.
Progression to detrusor muscle invasion during urothelial carcinoma surveillance is associated with poor prognosis
Authors: Breau Rodney H. , Karnes R. Jeffrey , Farmer Sara A. , Thapa Prabin , Cagiannos Ilias , Morash Christopher , Frank Igor
Published: August 2013

Objective

To evaluate survival in patients after radical cystectomy (RC) who presented with non‐muscle‐invasive urothelial carcinoma and progressed to muscle invasion during surveillance. Our secondary objective was to evaluate the association between clinical factors before RC and survival.

Patients and Methods

In all, 981 consecutive Mayo Clinic RC patients without a history of radiation or systemic chemotherapy were reviewed.

Of these, 190 had RC after they progressed from non‐muscle invasive disease to muscle invasion (progressed to ≥pT2).

These patients were compared to 310 patients who had RC before muscle invasion (≤pT1), and 481 patients who had muscle invasion at initial presentation (presented with ≥pT2).

Survival estimates were generated using the Kaplan–Meier method and compared using the log‐rank test, while adjusted analyses were performed using Cox proportional hazard regression models.

Results

Patients who progressed to muscle invasion on surveillance had a higher risk of death than patients who initially presented with muscle invasion (overall survival hazard ratio [HR] 1.3; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.0, 1.5).

The estimated 5‐year cancer‐specific survival was 85.4% for patients presenting with ≤pT1, 52.9% for patients who progressed to ≥pT2, and 62.4% for patients who presented with ≥pT2 (P < 0.001). The corresponding 5‐year overall survival rates were 70.0%, 42.1%, and 49.5% (P < 0.001).

Of the patients who initially presented with non‐muscle‐invasive disease, progression to muscle invasion was associated with increased risk of cancer‐specific death (adjusted HR 2.38; 95% CI 1.6, 3.5). Lack of information about patients who presented without muscle invasion and never received RC is the major limitation of this study.

Conclusions

Despite close surveillance, many patients who progress to muscle invasion will die from bladder cancer.

Patients who progress to muscle invasion on surveillance seem to have particularly aggressive disease and may benefit from multimodal treatments.
Functional and oncological outcomes of patients aged <50 years treated with radical prostatectomy for localised prostate cancer in a European population
Authors: Becker Andreas , Tennstedt Pierre , Hansen Jens , Trinh Quoc‐Dien , Kluth Luis , Atassi Nabil , Schlomm Thorsten , Salomon Georg , Haese Alexander , Budaeus Lars , Michl Uwe , Heinzer Hans , Huland Hartwig , Graefen Markus , Steuber Thomas
Published: August 2013

Objective

To address the biochemical and functional outcomes after radical prostatectomy (RP) of men aged <50 years in a large European population.

Patients and Methods

Among 13 268 patients who underwent RP for clinically localised prostate cancer at our centre (1992–2011), 443 (3.3%) men aged <50 were identified.

Biochemical recurrence (BCR) and functional outcomes (International Index of Erectile Function [IIEF‐5], use of pads), were prospectively evaluated and compared between men aged <50 years and older patients.

Results

Men aged <50 years were more likely to harbour D’Amico low‐risk (49.4 vs 34.9%, P < 0.001), organ‐confined (82.6 vs 69.4%, P < 0.001) and low‐grade tumours (Gleason score <7: 33.1 vs 28.7%, P < 0.001).

Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that age <50 years (hazard ratio 0.99; confidence interval 0.72–1.31; P = 0.9) was not a predictor of BCR.

Urinary continence was more favourable in younger patients, resulting in continence rates of 97.4% vs 91.6% in most recent years (2009–2011) for patients aged <50 vs ≥50 years.

After RP, a median IIEF‐5 drop of 4 points in younger men vs 8 points in older patients was recorded (P < 0.001).

Favourable recovery of urinary continence and erectile function in patients aged <50 years compared with their older counterparts was confirmed after multivariable adjustment.

Conclusion

Men aged <50 years diagnosed with localised prostate cancer should not be discouraged from RP, as the postoperative rates of urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction are low and probability of BCR‐free survival at 2 and 5 years is high.
A historical comparison of single incision and conventional multiport laparoscopic right hemicolectomy
Authors: Keshava A. , Young C. J. , Richardson G. L. , De‐Loyde K.
Published: August 2013

Aim

Single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) is specially suited for surgery of the right colon. This study presents the results of a historical controlled trial comparing single incision and multiport laparoscopic surgery (MLS) for right hemicolectomy.

Method

A review of outcome data from 149 patients who underwent laparoscopic right hemicolectomy was performed from the Concord Hospital laparoscopic colorectal database.

Results

Between July 2006 and December 2011, 149 consecutive laparoscopic right hemicolectomies were performed. The first 74 were performed by MLS and from February 2009 all cases were performed by SILS (n = 75).The median ages in the MLS and SILS groups were 74 and 68 years. The median body mass index was 27 kg/m2 in both groups. Patients were hospitalized for a median of 8 days in the MLS group compared with 5 days in the SILS group. The median length of the extraction wound was 50 mm in the MLS group compared with 43 mm in the SILS group. The indications for surgery were similar in both groups, being 67% and 68%. One patient in each group required conversion to open laparotomy, and no patient in the SILS group required conversion to a conventional multiport technique. Postoperative morbidity was similar in both groups.

Conclusion

SILS offers a safe minimally invasive approach to right colon resection. In our series SILS patients had a shorter extraction wound size and shorter length of stay in hospital.
Satisfaction with medical treatment in patients with hand dermatitis – a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Herschel Solveig , Schmitt Jochen , Bauer Andrea
Published: August 2013

Background

Despite the significant clinical and economic burden of hand dermatitis, data on patientsí satisfaction with treatment and related determining factors are lacking.

Patients and Methods

We performed a cross‐sectional study using a standardized survey, including all patients with hand dermatitis treated between 12/2001 and 11/2008 at the Department of Dermatology, TU Dresden. Patients were asked about socio‐demographic data, disease characteristics, occupational data, quality of life, treatment satisfaction and their treatment goals. Based on an a priori model, possible impact factors on treatment satisfaction were analyzed using regression modeling.

Results

Of 382 contacted patients, 215 agreed to participate in the study (133 [61.3%] female). The mean age was 42 years. 155 patients (72.1%) had had severe or very severe hand dermatitis in the past. The majority of the patients were satisfied with the medical treatment. Treatment satisfaction was determined by the impression of professional competence (p < 0.001), physiciansí empathy (p < 0.001), sufficient information on course, prognosis, and treatment options (p < 0.001), the patientsí self‐treatment competency (p < 0.001), quality of life (p = 0.007), as well as on the severity of hand dermatitis (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The data point out that in the therapy of chronic hand dermatitis, along with professional competence, the physiciansí empathy, provision of sufficient information about the disease, and teaching self‐treatment competency play a prominent role in improving the treatment satisfaction of the patients.
Determinants of Functional Mitral Regurgitation Severity in Patients with Ischemic Cardiomyopathy versus Nonischemic Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Konstantinou Dimitrios M. , Papadopoulou Klio , Giannakoulas George , Kamperidis Vasilis , Dalamanga Emmanouela G. , Damvopoulou Efthalia , Parcharidou Despina G. , Karamitsos Theodoros D. , Karvounis Haralambos I.
Published: August 2013

Aims

Functional mitral regurgitation (MR) is prevalent among patients with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction and is associated with a poorer prognosis. Our aim was to assess the primary determinants of MR severity in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) and nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

Methods and Results

Patients with functional MR secondary to ICM (n = 55) and DCM (n = 48) were prospectively enrolled. Effective regurgitant orifice (ERO) area, global LV remodeling, regional wall‐motion abnormalities, and mitral apparatus deformity indices were assessed utilizing conventional and tissue Doppler echocardiography. ICM patients had more severe MR compared with DCM patients despite similar ejection fraction and functional status (ERO = 0.16 ± 0.08 cm2 vs. ERO = 0.12 ± 0.70 cm2, respectively, P = 0.002). Regional myocardial systolic velocities in mid‐inferior and mid‐lateral wall were negatively correlated with ERO in ICM and DCM patients, respectively. Multivariate analysis identified coaptation height as the only independent determinant of ERO in both groups. In a subset of ICM patients (n = 9) with relatively high ERO despite low coaptation height, a higher prevalence of left bundle branch block was detected (88.9% vs. 46.7%, P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Functional MR severity was chiefly determined by the extent of mitral apparatus deformity, and coaptation height can provide a rapid estimation of MR severity in heart failure patients. Additional contributory mechanisms in ICM patients include depressed myocardial systolic velocities in posteromedial papillary muscle attaching site and evidence of global LV dyssynchrony.
Global and Regional Right Ventricular Dysfunction in Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Calcutteea Avin , Lindqvist Per , Soderberg Stefan , Henein Michael Y.
Published: August 2013

Background

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is known to affect the right ventricular (RV) function.

Aims

To assess the extent of global and regional RV dysfunction in PH patients.

Methods

We performed a cross‐sectional study on 20 controls (age 62 ± 15 years, 7 males) and 35 patients (age 67 ± 12 years, 13 males) with PH of mixed etiologies and assessed RV inflow and outflow tracts (OTs) function, using speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) based myocardial deformation and its time relations. RV inlet and OT dimensions (2D), inlet myocardial velocities (TDI), myocardial strain and strain rate (SR), TAPSE (M‐mode), ejection and filling times (pulsed‐wave [PW] Doppler), and pulmonary artery acceleration (PAc) were measured.

Results

RV inlet and OT were dilated (P < 0.001 for both) and TAPSE (P < 0.001), inlet velocities (P < 0.001), basal and mid‐cavity strain, SR and longitudinal displacement reduced (P < 0.001 for all). The time to peak systolic SR at basal, mid‐cavity (P < 0.001 for both), and RVOT (P = 0.007) was short as was that to peak displacement (P < 0.001 for all). The time to peak pulmonary ejection correlated with time to peak SR at RVOT (r = 0.7, P < 0.001) in controls, but with that of the mid‐cavity in patients (r = 0.71, P < 0.001). PAc was faster (P = 0.001) and RV filling time shorter in patients (P = 0.03) with respect to controls.

Conclusions

PH has drastic effects on RV structure and intrinsic myocardial function, significantly disturbing its ejection time relations and overall pump performance. Increased RV afterload results in RV configuration changes with the inflow tract determining peak ejection rather than OT.
Real Time Three‐Dimensional Transthoracic Echocardiography of Ruptured Left Sinus of Valsalva Aneurysm to Left Ventricle
Authors: Kharwar Rajiv Bharat , Narain Varun Shankar , Sethi Rishi
Published: August 2013

Aneurysms arising from the sinus of Valsalva are a rare cardiac defect that can present with various signs and symptoms, and if not diagnosed and treated rapidly can lead to fatal outcomes. Unruptured aneurysms are usually asymptomatic and found incidentally during diagnostic studies. More commonly, aneurysm of sinus of Valsalva is detected after the occurrence of rupture. Echocardiography has become the investigative tool of choice for this condition, not only for diagnosis but also for quantification of severity. We hereby report a rare case of a 15‐year‐old patient presenting with complaints of effort dyspnea and palpitations. Two‐dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) showed aneurysmal dilatation of left sinus of Valsalva which had ruptured into the left ventricle. Also, there was an intimal flap within the sinus of Valsalva aneurysm. The anatomical relationship between the aorta, aneurysm, and the left ventricle as well as the intimal flap within the aneurysm was clearly delineated with the help of three‐dimensional TTE. After confirmation of the diagnosis with multidetector computed tomography, patient underwent successful surgical repair of the defect.
Pinhole Mitral Stenosis
Authors: Srinivas Sunil Kumar , Rajendran Ravindran , Subramanian Anand , Bhat Prabhavathi , Chandrasekaran Dhanalakshmi , Manjunath Cholenahally Nanjappa
Published: August 2013

Mini‐Abstract

A 46‐year‐old male with known rheumatic heart disease presented in cardiac arrest. He was successfully resuscitated. Two‐dimensional echocardiography showed severe calcific rheumatic mitral stenosis with pinhole opening of the valve. The mitral valve area in planimetry was 0.14 cm2. Three‐dimensional echocardiography confirmed the severity of the stenosis. Patient underwent successful mitral valve replacement with tricuspid valve annuloplasty, Left atrial size reduction, and maze procedure on emergency basis. A mitral valve area of 0.14 cm2 is rarely encountered in clinical practice.
Abdominal obesity with hypertriglyceridaemia, lipoprotein(a) and apolipoprotein A‐I determine marked cardiometabolic risk
Authors: Onat Altan , Can Günay , Örnek Ender , Sansoy Vedat , Aydın Mesut , Yüksel Hüsniye
Published: August 2013

Background

Risks for coronary heart disease (CHD) and diabetes (T2DM) of the ‘hypertriglyceridemic waist’ phenotype (HtgW) warrant further investigation. We studied this issue and whether partial proinflammatory conversion of apolipoprotein (apo) A‐I by lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a codeterminant.

Materials and Methods

In a population‐based prospective study, 1328 Turkish adults were analysed in four groups by the presence of abdominal obesity and elevated triglycerides (Htg).

Results

LDL‐cholesterol levels, significantly elevated in isolated Htg, were lower in HtgW, yet significantly higher apoB and complement C3 values existed in women with HtgW in whom also the lowest Lp(a) values prevailed. Lp(a) was linearly associated, more strongly in HtgW than in the remaining groups, with apoB and, in women inversely, with gamma‐glutamyltransferase. Incident HtgW was predicted, not in men, but in women inversely by Lp(a) (OR 0·80 [95%CI 0·65; 0·97]), regardless of adjustment for relevant confounders. After adjustment for conventional risk factors, HtgW (OR 2·84) and high apoA‐I/HDL‐C ratio (OR 1·50) were significantly and additively associated with combined prevalent and incident CHD risk. High apoA‐I and low HDL‐cholesterol levels interacted therein in women. Type‐2 diabetes was strongly predicted by HtgW, mediated in men by high apoA‐I/HDL‐C ratio.

Conclusion

HtgW is associated with excess inflammatory markers, is predicted in women paradoxically by lower circulating Lp(a) and is associated in both sexes with marked excess cardiometabolic risk to which high apoA‐I/HDL‐C ratio contributes additively. These findings are consistent in women with apoA‐I being oxidized via aggregation to Lp(a).
Influence of the surrounding landscape on crop colonization by a polyphagous insect pest
Authors: Sivakoff Frances S. , Rosenheim Jay A. , Dutilleul Pierre , Carrière Yves
Published: August 2013

Landscape composition plays an important, but poorly understood, role in the population dynamics of agricultural pest species with broad host ranges including both crops and weeds. One such pest, the generalist plant bugLygus hesperusKnight (Hemiptera:Miridae), is a key cotton pest that feeds on various hosts differing in quality inCalifornia'sSanJoaquinValley (USA). We investigated the effects of 15 common crops and uncultivated agricultural land onL. hesperuspopulations, by correlating the densities ofL. hesperusin focal cotton fields with the areas of the 16 crops in surrounding rings. Insect counts were provided by private pest‐control advisors, and spatial data were obtained fromKernCounty records. We first calculatedSpearman's partial correlation coefficients on an annual basis for each crop separately, and then performed a meta‐analysis of these correlations across years to describe the overall effect of a particular crop onL. hesperusafter the effects of the 15 other crops are removed. Consistent with studies conducted in other areas,L. hesperusdensity was positively correlated with safflower, and negatively with cotton.Lygus hesperusdensity was also correlated with several other crops that are often not considered in pest management, including grape, oat, and onion (positive correlations), and almond, pistachio, and potato (negative correlations).Lygus hesperusdensity was also found to be negatively correlated with alfalfa and positively correlated with uncultivated habitats, a relationship that receives mixed support in the literature. Several other crops tested were not significantly correlated withL. hesperusdensities in focal cotton fields, suggesting a neutral role for them inL. hesperusdynamics. The improved understanding of the effects of a greater variety of crops onL. hesperuspopulation dynamics will be useful in the design of agricultural landscapes for enhanced management of this important polyphagous pest.
Shoot feeding, oviposition, and development of Monochamus galloprovincialis on Pinus pinea relative to other pine species
Authors: Sanchez‐Husillos Estela , Álvarez‐Baz Gonzalo , Etxebeste Iñaki , Pajares Juan Alberto
Published: August 2013

Transmission of the causing agent of the pine wilt disease, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus (Steiner & Buhrer) (Nematoda: Aphelenchoididae), among Pinus pinaster Aiton (Pinaceae) trees in Portugal is known to occur during pine sawyer, Monochamus galloprovincialis (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae), adult feeding on twigs of healthy trees or during female oviposition on dying or dead trees. Still, the disease does not affect the other potentially susceptible local pine species, Pinus pinea L. Several experiments evaluated the suitability of P. pinea as a host for M. galloprovincialis feeding, oviposition, and progeny development. Feeding responses were studied in two‐choice experiments pairing P. pinea twigs with P. pinaster, Pinus halepensis Miller, Pinus sylvestris L., Pinus uncinata Miller, and Pinus nigra Arnold. Another test assessed the effect of increased dosages of limonene applied to P. pinaster twigs on M. galloprovincialis feeding. Oviposition preferences for P. pinaster, with either intact or manipulated bark thickness, P. pinea, and P. sylvestris were also studied in two‐choice tests. Finally, suitability of P. pinea as a substrate for the development of M. galloprovincialis offspring was tested. Results showed that P. pinea could be an acceptable host for the pine sawyer feeding under laboratory conditions. Only P. sylvestris and P. pinaster twigs were significantly more consumed than those from P. pinea. Control and limonene‐treated twigs were eaten similarly, but feeding decreased as dose increased, suggesting an inhibitory effect of limonene. Oviposition wounds, both egg‐containing and eggless, occurred more on P. pinea than on P. sylvestris or P. pinaster, though the percentages of wounds indicating successful egg laying were significantly higher on P. pinaster and P. sylvestris. Monochamus galloprovincialis progeny completed its development on P. pinea, but emergence was lower than on P. sylvestris, likely due to higher mortality during egg and early larval stages. Thus, results on vector host preferences do not explain the observed absence of nematode‐killed P. pinea trees in the field.
The Impact of Institutional Context, Education and Labour Market Policies on Early School Leaving: a comparative analysis ofEUcountries
Authors: De Witte Kristof , Nicaise Ides , Lavrijsen Jeroen , Van Landeghem Georges , Lamote Carl , Van Damme Jan
Published: August 2013

This article presents a comparative analysis of the determinants of early school leaving (ESL) at the country level. We decomposeESLrates into two components: a ‘primary’ rate reflecting unqualified school leaving from initial education, and a second component accounting for early school leavers who participate in training programmes. Both may be influenced by structural and policy determinants. We examine how the ESL rate is affected by macro‐economic and social context variables such asGDP/capita, growth, poverty, and youth unemployment, as well as system characteristics of the education system (such as legal school leaving age, grade retention, early tracking, and size of vocational education) and the labour market and social protection systems (minimum wages, unemployment insurance).
Some Aspects of Early School Leaving in Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Finland
Authors: Cederberg Margareta , Hartsmar Nanny
Published: August 2013

This article describes early school leaving in Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Finland, using examples to show a complex representation of early school leaving and its consequences for young people's subsequent access to the labour market. We show how measures taken by governments and school authorities in the respective countries have resulted in improvements for students in their transition from school to work. However, we also show that an educational system per se can create problems for both individuals and groups. Early school leaving increases the risk of unemployment, and if when permanent, about two years are spent out of school unemployed between the ages 16 and ‐20 this, increases the risk of the young person being marginalised and having health and social problems later in life.
Maximized song learning of juvenile male zebra finches following BDNF expression in the HVC
Authors: Dittrich Falk , ter Maat Andries , Jansen Rene F. , Pieneman Anton , Hertel Moritz , Frankl‐Vilches Carolina , Gahr Manfred
Published: August 2013

During song learning, vocal patterns are matched to an auditory memory acquired from a tutor, a process involving sensorimotor feedback. Song sensorimotor learning and song production of birds is controlled by a set of interconnected brain nuclei, the song control system. In male zebra finches, the beginning of the sensorimotor phase of song learning parallels an increase of the brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in just one part of the song control system, the forebrain nucleus HVC. We report here that transient BDNF‐mRNA upregulation in the HVC results in a maximized copying of song syllables. Each treated bird shows motor learning to an extent similar to that of the selected best learners among untreated zebra finches. Because this result was not found following BDNF overexpression in the target areas of HVC within the song system, HVC‐anchored mechanisms are limiting sensorimotor vocal learning.
Long‐term depression of synaptic transmission in the adult mouse insular cortex in vitro
Authors: Liu Ming‐Gang , Koga Kohei , Guo Yan‐Yan , Kang SukJae Joshua , Collingridge Graham L. , Kaang Bong‐Kiun , Zhao Ming‐Gao , Zhuo Min
Published: August 2013

The insular cortex (IC) is known to play important roles in higher brain functions such as memory and pain. Activity‐dependent long‐term depression (LTD) is a major form of synaptic plasticity related to memory and chronic pain. Previous studies of LTD have mainly focused on the hippocampus, and no study in the IC has been reported. In this study, using a 64‐channel recording system, we show for the first time that repetitive low‐frequency stimulation (LFS) can elicit frequency‐dependent LTD of glutamate receptor‐mediated excitatory synaptic transmission in both superficial and deep layers of the IC of adult mice. The induction of LTD in the IC required activation of the N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor, metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR)5, and L‐type voltage‐gated calcium channel. Protein phosphatase 1/2A and endocannabinoid signaling are also critical for the induction of LTD. In contrast, inhibiting protein kinase C, protein kinase A, protein kinase Mζ or calcium/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II did not affect LFS‐evoked LTD in the IC. Bath application of the group I mGluR agonist (RS)‐3,5‐dihydroxyphenylglycine produced another form of LTD in the IC, which was NMDA receptor‐independent and could not be occluded by LFS‐induced LTD. Our studies have characterised the basic mechanisms of LTD in the IC at the network level, and suggest that two different forms of LTD may co‐exist in the same population of IC synapses.
Advantageous safety profile of a dual selective alpha2C agonist/alpha2A antagonist antinociceptive agent
Authors: Delaunois Annie , De Ron Pierrette , Dedoncker Paul , Rosseels Marie‐Luce , Cornet Miranda , Jnoff Eric , Hanon Etienne , Guyaux Michel , Depelchin Brigitte Olympe
Published: August 2013

A selective α2C‐adrenoceptor (AR) agonist was developed for the treatment of neuropathic pain. The objective was to dissociate analgesic activity from cardiovascular and sedative side effects commonly observed with nonselective agents. A 2‐amino‐oxazoline derivative (compound A), identified as a dual α2C‐AR agonist/α2A‐AR antagonist in in vitro‐binding assays, exhibited in vivo efficacy in rodent pain models. Its safety profile was compared with that of clonidine in six different in vivo models. Contrary to clonidine, compound A did not induce hypotension in pentobarbital‐anesthetized rats, in conscious spontaneous hypertensive rats, or in telemetered dogs. Both agents induced similar dose‐dependent decreases in heart rate in dogs and rats. In anesthetized pithed rats, clonidine showed dose‐dependent hypertension and inhibited electrical nerve stimulation‐induced tachycardia at doses close to its efficacious doses in the mouse formalin test, while compound A had much weaker vasoconstrictive and antichronotropic effects. Finally, in a mouse Irwin test, no sedation was observed with compound A at 30‐fold its ED50 in the mouse formalin test, while sedative effects of clonidine started from three‐fold its ED50. These data confirm the advantageous safety profile of the new dual α2C‐AR agonist/α2A‐AR antagonist agent vs. the nonselective agonist clonidine.
Role of N‐terminal extension of Bacillus stearothermophilus RNase H2 and C‐terminal extension of Thermotoga maritima RNase H2
Authors: Permanasari Etin‐Diah , Angkawidjaja Clement , Koga Yuichi , Kanaya Shigenori
Published: August 2013

Bacillus stearothermophilus RNase H2 (BstRNH2) and Thermotoga maritima RNase H2 (TmaRNH2) have N‐terminal and C‐terminal extensions, respectively, as compared with Aquifex aeolicus RNase H2 (AaeRNH2). To analyze the role of these extensions, BstRNH2 and TmaRNH2 without these extensions were constructed, and their biochemical properties were compared with those of their intact partners and AaeRNH2. The far‐UV CD spectra of all proteins were similar, suggesting that the protein structure is not significantly altered by removal of these extensions. However, both the junction ribonuclease and RNase H activities of BstRNH2 and TmaRNH2, as well as their substrate‐binding affinities, were considerably decreased by removal of these extensions. The stability of BstRNH2 and TmaRNH2 was also decreased by removal of these extensions. The activity, substrate binding affinity and stability of TmaRNH2 without the C‐terminal 46 residues were partly restored by the attachment of the N‐terminal extension of BstRNH2. These results suggest that the N‐terminal extension of BstRNH2 functions as a substrate‐binding domain and stabilizes the RNase H domain. Because the C‐terminal extension of TmaRNH2 assumes a helix hairpin structure and does not make direct contact with the substrate, this extension is probably required to make the conformation of the substrate‐binding site functional. AaeRNH2 showed comparable junction ribonuclease activity to those of BstRNH2 and TmaRNH2, and was more stable than these proteins, indicating that bacterial RNases H2 do not always require an N‐terminal or C‐terminal extension to increase activity, substrate‐binding affinity, and/or stability.
Forests on thawing permafrost: fragmentation, edge effects, and net forest loss
Authors: Baltzer Jennifer L. , Veness Tyler , Chasmer Laura E. , Sniderhan Anastasia E. , Quinton William L.
Published: August 2013

Much of the world's boreal forest occurs on permafrost (perennially cryotic ground). As such, changes in permafrost conditions have implications for forest function and, within the zone of discontinuous permafrost (30–80% permafrost in areal extent), distribution. Here, forested peat plateaus underlain by permafrost are elevated above the surrounding permafrost‐free wetlands; as permafrost thaws, ground surface subsidence leads to waterlogging at forest margins. Within the North American subarctic, recent warming has produced rapid, widespread permafrost thaw and corresponding forest loss. Although permafrost thaw‐induced forest loss provides a natural analogue to deforestation occurring in more southerly locations, we know little about how fragmentation relates to subsequent permafrost thaw and forest loss or the role of changing conditions at the edges of forested plateaus. We address these knowledge gaps by (i) examining the relationship of forest loss to the degree of fragmentation in a boreal peatland in the Northwest Territories, Canada; and (ii) quantifying associated biotic and abiotic changes occurring across forest‐wetland transitions and extending into the forested plateaus (i.e., edge effects). We demonstrate that the rate of forest loss correlates positively with the degree of fragmentation as quantified by perimeter to area ratio of peat plateaus (edge : area). Changes in depth of seasonal thaw, soil moisture, and effective leaf area index (LAIe) penetrated the plateau forests by 3–15 m. Water uptake by trees was sevenfold greater in the plateau interior than at the edges with direct implications for tree radial growth. A negative relationship existed between LAIe and soil moisture, suggesting that changes in vegetation physiological function may contribute to changing edge conditions while simultaneously being affected by these changes. Enhancing our understanding of mechanisms contributing to differential rates of permafrost thaw and associated forest loss is critical for predicting future interactions between the land surface processes and the climate system in high‐latitude regions.
The effect of a dry spring on seasonal carbon allocation and vegetation dynamics in a poplar bioenergy plantation
Authors: Broeckx Laura S. , Verlinden Melanie S. , Berhongaray Gonzalo , Zona Donatella , Fichot Régis , Ceulemans Reinhart
Published: August 2013

In this study the seasonal variation in carbon, water and energy fluxes as well as in net primary productivity (NPP) of different tree components is presented for a 2‐year‐old poplar (Populus spp.) plantation. A thorough ecophysiological study was performed at ecosystem scale, at tree and at leaf level, in this high‐density bioenergy plantation. Seasonal variation in NPP and fluxes was analysed in relation to meteorological parameters at the field site. The growing season length in terms of carbon uptake was controlled by leaf area development until the maximum leaf area index (LAImax) was reached. Afterwards, a shift to belowground carbon allocation was observed. A dry period in spring caused a reduced leaf area production as well as a decrease in net ecosystem exchange and gross primary production (GPP) due to stomatal closure. Water use efficiency and fine root growth increased in response to limiting soil water availability in the root zone. When soil water availability was not limiting, GPP was controlled by a decrease in solar radiation and air temperature. The results of this study indicate that the productivity of recently established bioenergy plantations with fast‐growing trees is very sensitive to drought. The interaction between soil water availability and factors controlling ecosystem GPP is crucial in assessing the CO2 mitigation potential under future climate conditions.
Stacking species distribution models and adjusting bias by linking them to macroecological models
Authors: Calabrese Justin M. , Certain Grégoire , Kraan Casper , Dormann Carsten F.
Published: August 2013

Aim

Species distribution models (SDMs) are common tools in biogeography and conservation ecology. It has been repeatedly claimed that aggregated (stacked) SDMs (S‐SDMs) will overestimate species richness. One recently suggested solution to this problem is to use macroecological models of species richness to constrain S‐SDMs. Here, we examine current practice in the development of S‐SDMs to identify methodological problems, provide tools to overcome these issues, and quantify the performance of correctly stacked S‐SDMs alongside macroecological models.

Locations

Barents Sea, Europe and Dutch Wadden Sea.

Methods

We present formal mathematical arguments demonstrating how S‐SDMs should and should not be stacked. We then compare the performance of macroecological models and correctly stacked S‐SDMs on the same data to determine if the former can be used to constrain the latter. Next, we develop a maximum‐likelihood approach to adjusting S‐SDMs and discuss how it could potentially be used in combination with macroecological models. Finally, we use this tool to quantify how S‐SDMs deviate from observed richness in four very different case studies.

Results

We demonstrate that stacking methods based on thresholding site‐level occurrence probabilities will almost always be biased, and that these biases will tend toward systematic overprediction of richness. Next, we show that correctly stacked S‐SDMs perform very similarly to macroecological models in that they both have a tendency to overpredict richness in species‐poor sites and underpredict it in species‐rich sites.

Main conclusions

Our results suggest that the perception that S‐SDMs consistently overpredict richness is driven largely by incorrect stacking methods. With these biases removed, S‐SDMs perform similarly to macroecological models, suggesting that combining the two model classes will not offer much improvement. However, if situations where coupling S‐SDMs and macroecological models would be beneficial are subsequently identified, the tools we develop would facilitate such a synthesis.
Desmopressin (DDAVP) in the management of patients with congenital bleeding disorders
Authors: Leissinger C. , Carcao M. , Gill J. C. , Journeycake J. , Singleton T. , Valentino L.
Published: August 2013

Bleeding disorders, including haemophilia, von Willebrand disease, and platelet function abnormalities pose a substantial, ongoing management challenge. Patients with these disorders not only require treatment during bleeding events but also need effective management strategies to prepare for events ranging from minor dental procedures to major surgery and childbirth. Moreover, women with bleeding disorders often require ongoing treatment to prevent menorrhagia during childbearing years. Desmopressin (DDAVP), a synthetic derivative of the antidiuretic hormone l‐arginine vasopressin, has become a well‐established tool for the management of patients with bleeding disorders in a variety of clinical settings. However, despite the widespread use of DDAVP, the available clinical evidence on its efficacy and safety in these settings is limited, and there has not been a recent comprehensive review of its role in the clinical management of patients with bleeding disorders. As such, this article provides a review of the mechanism of action and pharmacokinetic properties of DDAVP, followed by a concise summary of the available evidence for its use in the treatment and prevention of bleeding.
Effects of microwave and ultrasound pretreatments on enzymolysis of milk protein concentrate with different enzymes
Authors: Uluko Hankie , Zhang Shuwen , Liu Lu , Chen Jianhang , Sun Yanjun , Su Yanling , Li Hongjuan , Cui Wenming , Lv Jiaping
Published: August 2013

Milk protein concentrate was pretreated either by microwave irradiation or by ultrasound before initiation of 3‐h enzymatic hydrolysis. The duration of pretreatment ranged from 1 to 8 min at a power level of 800 W, with the control not being subjected to any pretreatment, and five enzymes (Alcalase, Trypsin, Neutrase, Alkaline Protease and Flavourzyme) were employed. The effects of microwave and ultrasound pretreatments on the kinetics and degree of hydrolysis, protein solubility, bitterness and angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitory activity were evaluated. Pretreatments increased the degree of hydrolysis and stabilised the solubility of the hydrolysates but could not significantly reduce bitterness of the hydrolysates The angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitory activity of the hydrolysates were improved with 5‐min ultrasound‐pretreated Neutrase hydrolysates giving IC50 value of 0.23 mg mL−1. Kinetic parameters showed improved catalytic efficiencies. Pretreatments of milk protein concentrates with either microwave or ultrasound significantly improve the bioactivity and functional characteristics of the resulting hydrolysates.
Effect of drying conditions on the retention of phenolic compounds, anthocyanins and antioxidant activity of roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) added to yogurt
Authors: Leyva Daniel Diana E. , Barragán Huerta Blanca E. , Vizcarra Mendoza Mario G. , Anaya Sosa Irasema
Published: August 2013

To evaluate the use of lixiviate roselle calyxes as an alternative source of bioactive compounds, they were subjected to dehydration in a vibrofluidised bed dryer after which some chemical parameters such as the retention of monomeric anthocyanins (MA), phenolic compounds, polymeric colour and antioxidant activity were determined. Drying curves showed both a constant drying period and a decreasing falling rate period. The different drying conditions showed significant differences in the chemical parameters. Using the dry residue with the best bioactive compounds content, it was possible to develop a dairy beverage (yogurt). The results confirmed that lixiviated roselle calyxes could be a competitive alternative for traditional products, such as grapes or bilberries, in terms on their antioxidant activity and stability when it is added as a source of bioactive compounds.
Effect of lightly salt and sucrose on rigor mortis changes in silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) stored at 4°C
Authors: Shi Ce , Cui Jianyun , Luo Yongkang , Zhou Zhongyun
Published: August 2013

To evaluate the effect of salt and sucrose on rigor mortis changes in silver carp during 72 h at 4 °C, physical (texture parameters, water holding capacity (WHC), cooking loss, L* value) and chemical adenosine triphosphate (ATP‐related compounds, K value, pH value) characteristics were studied. Silver carp were subjected to following treatments: left untreated (CK), treated with 1.8% salt (S) and 1.8% salt incorporating 1.8% sucrose (S+S). Curing treatments predominantly increased IMP content, WHC and texture parameters, retarded cooking loss and discoloration compared with untreated samples. The highest IMP concentration measured in S and S+S all occurred at 4 h, which was prior to that of CK (48 h). K value of S+S did not follow a linear relationship with time. The results indicated that the best eating times of CK, S and S+S were 2, 4 and 4 h at 4 °C, respectively, and curing treatments improved the quality of silver carp during postmortem process.
Optimum extraction and recovery of trypsin inhibitor from yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacores) roe and its biochemical properties
Authors: Klomklao Sappasith , Benjakul Soottawat , Kishimura Hideki
Published: August 2013

Effect of lipid removal, extraction medium and extraction time on the isolation and recovery of trypsin inhibitor from yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacores) roe was investigated. Trypsin inhibitor extracted from defatted tuna roe showed the higher specific inhibitory activity than extracted from origin tuna roe. Optimal extraction medium was attained by shaking the defatted yellowfin tuna roe powder in 10 mm Na phosphate buffer (pH 7.0) containing 0.5 m NaCl (P < 0.05). The extraction time affected the inhibitor recovery significantly (P < 0.05). The extraction time of 30 min was optimum for recovery of trypsin inhibitor from yellowfin tuna roe. The biochemical properties of trypsin inhibitor from yellowfin tuna roes were also determined. The inhibitor was stable to heat treatment up to 60C and over a broad pH range (5‐8). Increasing the concentration of salt (up to 3%, w/v) did not significantly decrease the trypsin inhibitory activity. However, the activity decreased when trypsin inhibitor was incubated with metal ions at ambient temperature for 30 min.
Optimisation of withered leaf moisture during the manufacture of black tea based upon theaflavins fractions
Authors: Sabhapondit Santanu , Bhattacharyya Pradip , Bhuyan Lakshi P. , Hazarika Mridul , Goswami Bhabesh Ch
Published: August 2013

A study was conducted to see the effect of different moisture content of withered leaf on the activity of oxidative enzymes polyphenoloxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (PO) and on the formation of theaflavins (TFs) and thearubigins (TRs). Six commercially popular cultivars TV1, TV7, TV9, TV23, TV26 and T.3E/3 of Assam, India, were processed in four different moisture levels (72%, 70%, 68% and 65%). Significant reduction in PPO and PO enzymes, TFs, TRs and theaflavin digallate equivalent was observed with the decrease in moisture content of withered leaf. The TFs (0.83–5.4 mg g−1) and TRs (23–107 mg g−1) fractions were lowest at moisture level 65 ± 1%. Of the six cultivars studied, better quality of black tea was obtained for cultivar TV1, TV9 and TV23 at 70 ± 1% moisture content, while for TV7 and TV26, it was 68 ± 1%. Withered leaf moisture content should be carefully chosen to obtain the better quality tea from specific cultivar.
Colour of hot paprika from the La Vera and Murcia regions packaged in different atmospheres during storage
Authors: Ordóñez‐Santos Luis E. , Pastur‐García Begoña , Romero‐Rodríguez Angeles , VÁzquez‐Odériz Lourdes
Published: August 2013

This study compared the behaviour of hot paprika (Capsicum annuum L.) samples from the district of La Vera and the region of Murcia packaged in five different conditions during storage. The following five different packaging conditions were used in this study: modified atmosphere packaging with three different conditions (100% N2; 50% N2 and 50% CO2; and 100% CO2), vacuum packaging and traditional packaging (product packaging system without modifying the atmosphere). After the samples were packaged, they were stored for 8 months at room temperature (normal storage conditions). The following parameters were used to indicate the quality of the samples: Aw, ASTA colour, CIEL*a*b* colour parameters, and the composition of red and yellow compounds. The results indicate that the modified atmosphere packaging and vacuum packaging exerted a protective effect on the paprika quality characteristics regardless of the paprika origin. However, no clear differences were detected between the effect of vacuum packaging and the different modified atmosphere packaging conditions.
A study of the effect of the drying process on the composition and physicochemical properties of flours obtained from durian fruits of two ripening stages
Authors: Bai‐Ngew Swittra , Therdthai Nantawan , Dhamvithee Pisit , Zhou Weibiao
Published: August 2013

Durian cv. Monthong with two ripening stages (unripe and fully ripe) was subjected to microwave vacuum drying (MWD) at 5.49 W g−1 and hot air drying (HAD) at 60 °C. With an increase in ripening degree, the starch content was significantly (P ≤ 0.05) decreased from 40.08–40.42% to 9.44–11.76%. X‐ray diffraction indicated that the crystalline pattern was changed from starch to sucrose. The starch granule morphology of durian flour was conserved for both drying conditions. Peak gelatinisation temperatures of MWD and HAD flours were increased significantly (P ≤ 0.05) from 56.71–57.32 to 60.71–61.23 °C. Using different drying methods, MWD flour had less a*‐value (P ≤ 0.05) than HAD flour. The peak viscosity and trough of the HAD unripe durian flour (5.92 RVU and 3.45 RVU, respectively) were significantly (P ≤ 0.05) lower than those of the MWD unripe durian flour (34.32 RVU and 11.57 RVU, respectively).