bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the role of physical activity for people diagnosed with serious mental illness in Ireland
Authors: Cullen C. , McCann E.
Published: December 2014

Accessible summary

The aim of the study was to elicit the views and opinions of people diagnosed with serious mental illness in relation to physical activity.

Ten people who were attending a community mental health centre participated in semi‐structured interviews.

The main results showed that participants found physical activity beneficial in terms of psychological and social well‐being and perceived clear gains in relation to recovery and quality of life.

Physical activity should be routinely included in plans of care and mental health policy guidelines globally should contain physical activity as a key component.

Mental health policy guidelines globally should contain physical activity as a key component.

The aim of the current study was to explore the subjective experiences of people diagnosed with serious mental illness (SMI) in relation to physical activity. The study was conducted using a qualitative exploratory descriptive approach. The participants (n = 10), who were outpatients attending a day centre, were interviewed to elicit their views and opinions about physical activity. The data were thematically analysed using a recognized framework. The main themes that emerged included physical activity as a meaningful activity, physical activity as a mental activity, quality of life and recovery, and perceived challenges to physical activity. The unique perspectives of service users provides fresh insights on the topic and the findings support the justification for the inclusion of physical activity in plans of care and to be contained in global mental health policy directives.
Subgingival microbial profiles of Sudanese patients with aggressive periodontitis
Authors: Elabdeen H. R. Z. , Mustafa M. , Hasturk H. , Klepac‐Ceraj V. , Ali R. W. , Paster B. J. , Van Dyke T. , Bolstad A. I.
Published: December 2014

Background and Objective

Aggressive periodontitis (AgP) is prevalent and shows a rapid course in African individuals. Although a strong focus has been placed on Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, new methods support the existence of a complex subgingival microflora in AgP. The purpose of the present study was to map the subgingival microbiota as well as explore the presence of A. actinomycetemcomitans and the JP2 clone in a group of Sudanese individuals with AgP, using different analytical methods.

Material and Methods

A study population consisting of 19 patients with AgP was recruited from patients seeking treatment at University of Science and Technology (UST) in Khartoum. Fifteen healthy subjects were included as controls. Plaque samples were analyzed for 272 taxa using human oral microbe identification microarrays and for 26 periodontal taxa using DNA‐DNA hybridization checkerboard. Conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was applied for the detection of A. actinomycetemcomitans and the JP2 clone in plaque. Saliva from patients with AgP was analyzed using quantitative PCR (qPCR) for the detection of A. actinomycetemcomitans.

Results

Eubacterium yurii was detected more frequently in patients with AgP than in controls, and E. nodatum was found in patients with AgP only. A. actinomycetemcomitans was found in plaque samples of two (12%) patients by human oral microbe identification microarrays and in five (29%) patients with AgP by conventional PCR, as well as in six (32%) of the AgP saliva samples by qPCR. The JP2 clone was identified in only one patient.

Conclusion

The classical periodontal pathogens were not present in high amounts in AgP in the population studied here. Species of Eubacterium, which are not typically associated with AgP, were often detected in individuals with disease. Using laboratory methods with different sensitivities and detection levels allowed identification of variances in microbial communities. The findings reported in this study provide a basis for the further understanding of AgP.
Acquired cervical spinal arachnoid diverticulum in a cat
Authors: Adams R. J. , Garosi L. , Matiasek K. , Lowrie M.
Published: December 2014

A one‐year‐old, female entire, domestic, shorthair cat presented with acute onset non‐ambulatory tetraparesis. Magnetic resonance imaging was consistent with aC3‐C4acute non‐compressive nucleus pulposus extrusion and the cat was treated conservatively. The cat was able to walk after 10 days and was normal 2 months after presentation. The cat was referred five and a half years later for investigation of an insidious onset 3‐month history of ataxia and tetraparesis. Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine was repeated, demonstrating a spinal arachnoid diverticulum atC3causing marked focal compression of the spinal cord. This was treated surgically with hemilaminectomy and durectomy. The cat improved uneventfully and was discharged 12 days later.
Pro‐coagulant thromboelastographic features in the bulldog
Authors: Hoareau G. , Mellema M.
Published: December 2014

OBJECTIVES

To determine if bulldogs develop a hypercoagulable state comparable to that observed in human patients with sleep apnoea hypopnoea syndrome.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thromboelastography was performed in 15 clinically healthy bulldogs and 24 healthy control dogs of other breeds or mixed breed lineage.

RESULTS

Bulldogs had significantly shorter R and K times relative to control dogs. The alpha angle, maximum amplitude and overall clot strength was significantly greater in bulldogs than in controls. The largest differences between the groups were found in the maximal amplitude and overall clot strength parameters.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

These findings support the concept that brachycephalic syndrome promotes a hypercoagulable phenotype similar to that observed with sleep apnoea hypopnoea syndrome in humans. The large increases in maximal amplitude observed suggest platelet hyperreactivity may play an important role.
Retrospective evaluation of moderate‐to‐severe pulmonary hypertension in dogs naturally infected with Angiostrongylus vasorum
Authors: Borgeat K. , Sudunagunta S. , Kaye B. , Stern J. , Luis Fuentes V. , Connolly D. J.
Published: December 2014

OBJECTIVES

The outcome in dogs with pulmonary hypertension associated with natural Angiostrongylus vasorum infection is unclear. This study aimed to report long‐term outcome of dogs with A. vasorum and pulmonary hypertension, and to evaluate factors associated with pulmonary hypertension development. It was hypothesised that dogs with pulmonary hypertension had a shorter survival time than dogs without pulmonary hypertension.

METHODS

Retrospective review of clinical records of dogs diagnosed with A. vasorum. Dogs were classified as having or not having pulmonary hypertension based on clinical signs and imaging findings. Signalment, signs and outcome were recorded. DNA obtained from banked samples was genotyped for the PDE5a:E90K polymorphism, a possible factor in development of pulmonary hypertension.

RESULTS

The proportion of dogs with moderate‐to‐severe pulmonary hypertension and A. vasorum infection in the study population was 14 · 6%. No difference in the population characteristics or PDE5a genotype was detected between dogs with and without pulmonary hypertension. Dogs with pulmonary hypertension had a significantly shorter survival time (P = 0 · 006) and a greater risk of death within 6 months of diagnosis (odds ratio 12 · 5, 95% confidence interval 2 · 1 to 74 · 9; P = 0 · 0053).

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

A. vasorum‐associated pulmonary hypertension is an important problem in naturally infected dogs and has a negative effect upon survival.
Faecal shedding of antimicrobial‐resistant Clostridium difficile strains by dogs
Authors: Álvarez‐Pérez S. , Blanco J. L. , Peláez T. , Lanzarot M. P. , Harmanus C. , Kuijper E. , García M. E.
Published: December 2014

OBJECTIVES

To longitudinally assess the shedding of antimicrobial resistant Clostridium difficile strains by clinically healthy dogs raised at breeding facilities.

METHODS

18 puppies from three different litters (#1, 2 and 3) were sampled weekly from parturition to day 20–55 postpartum. Faecal samples from the mothers of litters #2 and 3 were also available for analysis. Bacterial isolates were ribotyped, tested for in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility and further characterised.

RESULTS

C. difficile was recovered from all sampled animals of litters #1 and 2, and a third of puppies from litter #3, but marked differences in C. difficile recovery were detected in different age groups (0–100%). Recovered PCR ribotypes included 056 (22 isolates), 010 (6 isolates), 078 and 213 (2 isolates each), and 009 and 020 (1 isolate each). Different ribotypes were shed by four individual animals. Regardless of their origin and ribotype, all isolates demonstrated full resistance to levofloxacin. Additionally, all but one isolate (belonging to ribotype 078) were resistant to ertapenem, and all ribotype 010 isolates displayed high‐level resistance to clindamycin, clarithromycin and erythromycin. A single ribotype 078 isolate showed metronidazole heteroresistance.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Healthy dogs can shed antimicrobial‐resistant C. difficile strains.
Pharmacokinetics of tramadol following intravenous and oral administration in male rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: Kelly K. R. , Pypendop B. H. , Christe K. L.
Published: December 2014

Recently, tramadol and its active metabolite, O‐desmethyltramadol (M1), have been studied as analgesic agents in various traditional veterinary species (e.g., dogs, cats, etc.). This study explores the pharmacokinetics of tramadol and M1 after intravenous (IV) and oral (PO) administration in rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta), a nontraditional veterinary species. Rhesus macaques are Old World monkeys that are commonly used in biomedical research. Effects of tramadol administration to monkeys are unknown, and research veterinarians may avoid inclusion of this drug into pain management programs due to this limited knowledge. Four healthy, socially housed, adult male rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) were used in this study. Blood samples were collected prior to, and up to 10 h post‐tramadol administration. Serum tramadol and M1 were analyzed using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. Noncompartmental pharmacokinetic analysis was performed. Tramadol clearance was 24.5 (23.4–32.7) mL/min/kg. Terminal half‐life of tramadol was 111 (106–127) min IV and 133 (84.9–198) min PO. Bioavailability of tramadol was poor [3.47% (2.14–5.96%)]. Maximum serum concentration of M1 was 2.28 (1.88–2.73) ng/mL IV and 11.2 (9.37–14.9) ng/mL PO. Sedation and pruritus were observed after IV administration.
Geographic patterns of lake macrophyte communities and species richness at regional scale
Authors: Alahuhta Janne
Published: December 2014

Questions

Are community composition and species richness of aquatic macrophytes determined primarily by local (habitat heterogeneity and water quality) or regional (climate) patterns at regional scale? Do two macrophyte functional groups (i.e. emergent and submerged macrophytes) respond similarly to local and regional patterns? Are lake macrophytes and explanatory variables geographically structured?

Location

The US state of Minnesota.

Methods

The community composition and species richness of aquatic flora was studied using presence–absence data in 454 lakes, covering the entire US state of Minnesota. In addition, community composition and species richness of emergent and submerged macrophytes was investigated separately. Variation partitioning based on partial redundancy analysis and partial linear regression was used to study the relative roles of water quality, habitat heterogeneity, climate and sampling effort in explaining community composition and species richness of lake macrophytes, respectively.

Results

Macrophyte community composition and species richness (all taxa and two functional groups) were explained by water quality and climate. Alkalinity and total phosphorus were water quality variables that most affected community composition of aquatic flora, and macrophyte species richness decreased with increasing concentrations of these two variables. Maximum temperature of the warmest month and mean annual temperature most affected plant community composition, whereas species richness had a negative relationship with minimum temperature of the coldest month. Most significant explanatory variables (e.g. alkalinity, total phosphorus and temperature) were geographically structured, showing a latitudinal change.

Conclusions

Community composition and species richness of macrophytes were congruently influenced by regional (climate) and local patterns (water quality) at regional scale. Community composition and species richness of helophytes and submerged macrophytes were equally explained by environmental gradients. The latitudinal change in these most significant environmental variables was related to calcareous soils and intensive agriculture, which were situated in the southern part of the state. Macrophyte species richness showed a reverse latitudinal gradient, which was likely due to high nutrient concentrations in southern latitude lakes. Water quality primarily filters species from the regional species pool, allowing only species tolerating high nutrient concentrations, e.g. invasive plants, to survive at southern latitudes.
Incidence of solid organ cancers after liver transplantation: comparison with regional cancer incidence rates and risk factors
Authors: Carenco Christophe , Faure Stéphanie , Herrero Astrid , Assenat Eric , Duny Yohan , Danan Guillaume , Bismuth Michaël , Chanques Gérald , Ursic‐Bedoya José , Jaber Samir , Larrey Dominique , Navarro Francis , Pageaux Georges‐Philippe
Published: December 2014

Background & Aims

Increased rates of solid organ cancers post‐liver transplantation have been reported, but the contribution of environmental factors and immunosuppressive therapy is not clear. This study's aims were to compare the incidence of de novo solid organ cancers after liver transplantation; identify risk factors independent of immunosuppressive therapy associated with these cancers; and assess the influence of calcineurin inhibitors on the appearance of these cancers.

Methods

This single‐centre study from 1991 to 2008 included 465 liver recipients who had survived for ≥1 year. Gross incidence rates were standardized by age and sex, using the global population as a reference. In addition, 322 of the 465 patients treated for ≥1 year with calcineurin inhibitors were studied.

Results

Sixty‐five (13.9%) of the 465 patients developed de novo solid cancers. The overall relative risk was 3.7. Significantly increased relative risks were observed for digestive, oesophageal, colorectal, oral and lung cancers, but not for genito‐urinary and breast cancers. Among the 65 patients who developed solid organ cancers, 43 died (66.1%), 41 from cancer. The two independent risk factors were pretransplant smoking [P < 0.0001; odds ratio = 5.5 (.5; 12)] and obesity [P = 0.0184; odds ratio = 2.2 (1.1; 4.3)].

Of the 322 patients on calcineurin inhibitors, 55 (17%) developed de novo solid cancers. Tacrolimus exposure level was a risk factor for de novo solid cancers [P < 0.0001; OR = 15.3 (4.5; 52.2)].

Conclusions

We recommend a change in immunosuppressive protocols with lifestyle/dietary guidelines and smoking cessation.
Metazoan/microbial biostalactites from present‐day submarine caves in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Sanfilippo Rossana , Rosso Antonietta , Guido Adriano , Mastandrea Adelaide , Russo Franco , Riding Robert , Taddei Ruggiero Emma
Published: December 2014

Biostalactites formed by metazoan–microbialite associations from three submerged marine caves in the Plemmirio Peninsula (south of Syracuse, Ionian Sea) are randomly distributed and show different sizes and morphologies, as well as variations in surface roughness/smoothness. The biostalactites consist of crusts a few centimeters thick of small serpulids and other metazoans, associated with fine‐grained carbonate; the larger ones often include a nucleus of serpulid tubes (Protula). The metazoans include mainly serpuloideans, sponges, bryozoans and foraminifers but microbial carbonates are also significant components. The composition of both the living communities and thanatocoenoses on the outer surfaces, as well as the composition and fabric of the internal framework, were analysed and used to reconstruct the history of the caves. All of the identified sessile faunas mainly consist of cryptic and sciaphilic dwellers that reflect cave conditions and their variations through time. The distribution pattern, composition and abundance of the present‐day dwellers largely depend on the degree of roughness of the biostalactite surfaces and their positions within the caves. It has been suggested that the Protula specimens in the nuclei represent pioneer populations that formed aggregates during the early cave colonization phase, in response to relatively high food supply from seawater inflow and intruding continental waters. By contrast, the outer metazoan–microbialite carbonates reflect more confined conditions in the caves caused by Holocene sea‐level rises. Hypotheses are proposed for biostalactite growth, taking into account information about the growth rates of some constituents, and evidence of dissolution effects. Similarities and differences between these biostalactites and other Holocene deposits previously described from submarine caves in the Mediterranean Sea and in tropical reefs are discussed.
Phylogeography ofvargene repertoires reveals fine‐scale geospatial clustering ofPlasmodium falciparumpopulations in a highly endemic area
Authors: Tessema Sofonias K. , Monk Stephanie L. , Schultz Mark B. , Tavul Livingstone , Reeder John C. , Siba Peter M. , Mueller Ivo , Barry Alyssa E.
Published: December 2014

Plasmodium falciparummalaria is a major global health problem that is being targeted for progressive elimination. Knowledge of local disease transmission patterns in endemic countries is critical to these elimination efforts. To investigate fine‐scale patterns of malaria transmission, we have compared repertoires of rapidly evolvingvargenes in a highly endemic area. A total of 3680 high‐qualityDBLα‐sequences were obtained from 68P. falciparumisolates from ten villages spread over two distinct catchment areas on the north coast of Papua New Guinea (PNG). Modelling of the extent ofvargene diversity in the two parasite populations predicts more than twice as manyvargene alleles circulating within each catchment (Mugil = 906; Wosera = 1094) than previously recognized inPNG(Amele = 369). In addition, there were limited levels ofvargene sharing between populations, consistent with local parasite population structure. Phylogeographic analyses demonstrate that while neutrally evolving microsatellite markers identified population structure only at the catchment level,vargene repertoires reveal further fine‐scale geospatial clustering of parasite isolates. The clustering of parasite isolates by village in Mugil, but not in Wosera was consistent with the physical and cultural isolation of the human populations in the two catchments. The study highlights the microheterogeneity ofP. falciparumtransmission in highly endemic areas and demonstrates the potential ofvargenes as markers of local patterns of parasite population structure.
Stable coexistence of incompatible Wolbachia along a narrow contact zone in mosquito field populations
Authors: Atyame Célestine M. , Labbé Pierrick , Rousset François , Beji Marwa , Makoundou Patrick , Duron Olivier , Dumas Emilie , Pasteur Nicole , Bouattour Ali , Fort Philippe , Weill Mylène
Published: December 2014

In arthropods, the intracellular bacteria Wolbachia often induce cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI) between sperm and egg, which causes conditional embryonic death and promotes the spatial spread of Wolbachia infections into host populations. The ability of Wolbachia to spread in natural populations through CI has attracted attention for using these bacteria in vector‐borne disease control. The dynamics of incompatible Wolbachia infections have been deeply investigated theoretically, whereas in natural populations, there are only few examples described, especially among incompatible infected hosts. Here, we have surveyed the distribution of two molecular Wolbachia strains (wPip11 and wPip31) infecting the mosquito Culex pipiens in Tunisia. We delineated a clear spatial structure of both infections, with a sharp contact zone separating their distribution areas. Crossing experiments with isofemale lines from different localities showed three crossing types: wPip11‐infected males always sterilize wPip31‐infected females; however, while most wPip31‐infected males were compatible with wPip11‐infected females, a few completely sterilize them. The wPip11 strain was thus expected to spread, but temporal dynamics over 7 years of monitoring shows the stability of the contact zone. We examined which factors may contribute to the observed stability, both theoretically and empirically. Population cage experiments, field samples and modelling did not support significant impacts of local adaptation or assortative mating on the stability of wPip infection structure. By contrast, low dispersal probability and metapopulation dynamics in the host Cx. pipiens probably play major roles. This study highlights the need of understanding CI dynamics in natural populations to design effective and sustainable Wolbachia‐based control strategies.
Genomic evidence of geographically widespread effect of gene flow from polar bears into brown bears
Authors: Cahill James A. , Stirling Ian , Kistler Logan , Salamzade Rauf , Ersmark Erik , Fulton Tara L. , Stiller Mathias , Green Richard E. , Shapiro Beth
Published: December 2014

Polar bears are an arctic, marine adapted species that is closely related to brown bears. Genome analyses have shown that polar bears are distinct and genetically homogeneous in comparison to brown bears. However, these analyses have also revealed a remarkable episode of polar bear gene flow into the population of brown bears that colonized the Admiralty, Baranof and Chichagof islands (ABC islands) of Alaska. Here, we present an analysis of data from a large panel of polar bear and brown bear genomes that includes brown bears from the ABC islands, the Alaskan mainland and Europe. Our results provide clear evidence that gene flow between the two species had a geographically wide impact, with polar bear DNA found within the genomes of brown bears living both on the ABC islands and in the Alaskan mainland. Intriguingly, while brown bear genomes contain up to 8.8% polar bear ancestry, polar bear genomes appear to be devoid of brown bear ancestry, suggesting the presence of a barrier to gene flow in that direction.
Heterogeneity in Kv7 Channel Function in the Cerebral and Coronary Circulation
Authors: Lee Sewon , Yang Yan , Tanner Miles A. , Li Min , Hill Michael A.
Published: December 2014

Objectives

Kv7 channels are considered important regulators of vascular smooth muscle contractility. The present study aimed to examine the hypotheses that (i) Kv7 channels are present in mouse cerebral and coronary arteries and regulate vascular reactivity and (ii) regional differences exist in the activity of these channels.

Methods and Results

PCR confirmed that basilar, Circle of Willis and LAD arteries express predominantly Kv7.1 and 7.4. Western blot analysis, however, showed greater Kv7.4 protein levels in the cerebral vessels. Relaxation to the Kv7 channel activator, retigabine (1–50 μM) was significantly greater in the basilar artery compared to the LAD artery. Similarly, the Kv7 channel inhibitor, linopirdine (10 μM) caused a stronger contraction of the basilar artery. Furthermore, pre‐incubation with linopirdine reduced forskolin (cAMP activator)‐induced vasorelaxation in basilar while not altering forskolin‐induced vasorelaxation of the LAD, suggesting that Kv7 channels play a more prominent role in the cerebral than in the coronary circulation. Consistent with the vessel data, whole cell Kv7 currents in cerebral VSMCs were potentiated by retigabine and inhibited by linopirdine, while these responses were blunted in coronary VSMCs.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence that mouse Kv7 channels may contribute differently to regulating the functional properties of cerebral and coronary arteries. Such heterogeneity has important implications for developing novel therapeutics for cardiovascular dysfunction.
Genetic analysis of Escherichia coli RadA: functional motifs and genetic interactions
Authors: Cooper Deani L. , Boyle Daniel C. , Lovett Susan T.
Published: December 2014

The RadA/Sms protein is a RecA‐related protein found universally in eubacteria and plants, implicated in processing of recombination intermediates. Here we show that the putative Zn finger, Walker A motif, KNRXG motif and Lon protease homology domain of the Escherichia coli RadA protein are required for DNA damage survival. RadA is unlikely to possess protease activity as the putative active site serine is not required. Mutants in RadA have strong synergistic phenotypes with those in the branch migration protein RecG. Sensitivity of radA recG mutants to azidothymidine (AZT) can be rescued by blocking recombination with recA or recF mutations or by overexpression of RuvAB, suggesting that lethal recombination intermediates accumulate in the absence of RadA and RecG. Synthetic genetic interactions for survival to AZT or ciprofloxacin exposure were observed between RadA and known or putative helicases including DinG, Lhr, PriA, Rep, RuvAB, UvrD, YejH and YoaA. These represent the first affected phenotypes reported for Lhr, YejH and YoaA. The specificity of these effects sheds new light on the role of these proteins in DNA damage avoidance and repair and implicates a role in replication gap processing for DinG and YoaA and a role in double‐strand break repair for YejH.
Pulsed signal properties of free‐ranging bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the central Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Buscaino Giuseppa , Buffa Gaspare , Filiciotto Francesco , Maccarrone Vincenzo , Di Stefano Vincenzo , Ceraulo Maria , Mazzola Salvatore , Alonge Giuseppe
Published: December 2014

This study describes pulsed signals from bottlenose dolphins of the central Mediterranean Sea. Data were collected during 2011 and 2012 in 27 surveys in the Sicilian Channel, during which 163 animals were sighted. Based mainly on the pulse repetition rate, the signals were classified as Low‐frequency click (LF; single clicks without a regular pulse rate), Train click (TC; with a interclick interval of 80 ± 2 ms), Burst (with a interclick interval of 3.4 ± 0.2 ms), or Packed click (with a lower number of clicks per train and median interclick interval of 3.2 ± 0.0 ms). The measured parameters were peak sound pressure level (SPLpk); signal duration; the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd peak of frequency; number of peaks frequency; bandwidth; centroid frequency; and the 10th, 25th, 75th, and 90th percentiles of the power spectrum distribution. Most of the parameters were significantly different among the groups, reflecting the different functions of these signals. LF clicks showed a lower peak frequency and percentiles and a longer duration and could be used to explore a wide area without a specific target focalization and with less resolution. The TC showed a higher SPLpk, higher peak frequency, lower duration, and lower number of secondary peaks frequency, showing a better resolution to investigate a specific target.
Decreased levels of guanosine 3′, 5′‐monophosphate (cGMP) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are associated with cognitive decline and amyloid pathology in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Ugarte Ana , Gil‐Bea Francisco , García‐Barroso Carolina , Cedazo‐Minguez Ángel , Ramírez M. Javier , Franco Rafael , García‐Osta Ana , Oyarzabal Julen , Cuadrado‐Tejedor Mar
Published: December 2014

Aims

Levels of the cyclic nucleotides guanosine 3′, 5′‐monophosphate (cGMP) or adenosine 3′, 5′‐monophosphate (cAMP) that play important roles in memory processes are not characterized in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The aim of this study was to analyse the levels of these nucleotides in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from patients diagnosed with clinical and prodromal stages of AD and study the expression level of the enzymes that hydrolyzed them [phosphodiesterases (PDEs)] in the brain of AD patients vs. controls.

Methods

For cGMP and cAMP CSF analysis, the cohort (n = 79) included cognitively normal participants (subjective cognitive impairment), individuals with stable mild cognitive impairment or AD converters (sMCI and cMCI), and mild AD patients. A high throughput liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method was used. Interactions between CSF cGMP or cAMP with mini–mental state examination (MMSE) score, CSF Aβ(1–42) and CSF p‐tau were analysed. For PDE4, 5, 9 and 10 expression analysis, brains of AD patients vs. controls (n = 7 and n = 8) were used.

Results

cGMP, and not cAMP levels, were significantly lower in the CSF of patients diagnosed with mild AD when compared with nondemented controls. CSF levels of cGMP showed a significant association with MMSE‐diagnosed clinical dementia and with CSF biomarker Aβ42 in AD patients. Significant increase in PDE5 expression was detected in temporal cortex of AD patients compared with that of age‐matched healthy control subjects. No changes in the expression of others PDEs were detected.

Conclusions

These results support the potential involvement of cGMP in the pathological and clinical development of AD. The cGMP reduction in early stages of AD might participate in the aggravation of amyloid pathology and cognitive decline.
Review: Prion‐like mechanisms of transactive response DNA binding protein of 43 kDa (TDP‐43) in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
Authors: Smethurst Phillip , Sidle Katie Claire Louise , Hardy John
Published: December 2014

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal devastating neurodegenerative disorder which predominantly affects the motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. The death of the motor neurons in ALS causes subsequent muscle atrophy, paralysis and eventual death. Clinical and biological evidence now demonstrates that ALS has many similarities to prion disease in terms of disease onset, phenotype variability and progressive spread. The pathognomonic ubiquitinated inclusions deposited in the neurons and glial cells in brains and spinal cords of patients with ALS and fronto‐temporal lobar degeneration with ubiquitinated inclusions contain aggregated transactive response DNA binding protein of 43 kDa (TDP‐43), and evidence now suggests that TDP‐43 has cellular prion‐like properties. The cellular mechanisms of prion protein misfolding and aggregation are thought to be responsible for the characteristics of prion disease. Therefore, there is a strong mechanistic basis for a prion‐like behaviour of the TDP‐43 protein being responsible for some characteristics of ALS. In this review, we compare the prion‐like mechanisms of TDP‐43 to the clinical and biological nature of ALS in order to investigate how this protein could be responsible for some of the characteristic properties of the disease.
Barbara's story: a thematic analysis of a relative's reflection of being in the intensive care unit
Authors: Christensen Martin , Probst Barbara
Published: December 2014

Aim

The aim of this reflective account is to provide a view of the intensive care unit (ICU) relative's experiences of supporting and being supported in the ICU.

Background

Understanding the relatives' experiences of ICU is important especially because a recent work has identified the potential for this group to develop post‐traumatic stress disorder, a condition that is normally equated with the ICU survivor.

Design

A thematic analysis was used in identifying emerging themes that would be significant in an ICU nursing context.

Setting

The incident took place in two 8‐bedded ICUs (Private and National Health Service) in October.

Results

Two emergent themes were identified from the reflective story – fear of the technological environment and feeling hopeless and helpless.

Conclusion

The use of relative stories as an insight into the live experiences of ICU relatives may give a deeper understanding of their life‐world. The loneliness, anguish and pain of the ICU relative extends beyond the walls of the ICU, and this is often negated as the focus of the ICU team is the patient.

Relevance to clinical practice

Developing strategies to support relatives might include the use of relative diaries used concurrently with patient diaries to support this groups recovery or at the very least a gaining a sense of understanding for their ICU experience. Relative follow‐up clinics designed specifically to meet their needs where support and advice can be given by the ICU team, in addition to making timely and appropriate referrals to counselling services and perhaps involving spiritual leaders where appropriate.
Comparative morphology, anatomy and palynological studies of perennial species of Onobrychis (Fabaceae) in northeast Iran
Authors: Amirabadizadeh H. , Jafari A. , Mahmoodzadeh H.
Published: December 2014

This study examined morphological, anatomical and palynological characters for six species, two subspecies and two varieties of perennial Onobrychis growing in northeast Iran. In the morphological study, shape, size and color of vegetative organs and legumes were assessed. For the anatomical study, cross sections of mature fresh or dried stems, leaflets and petioles were prepared and stained. In the palynological study, pollen were extracted, acetolysed and observed by SEM. The morphological study indicated that some characteristics varied among species, such as shape of stipules and calyx teeth, color and shape of corolla segments and legumes and an identification key is provided based on these characters. Also, in internal structure some differences were noticed in the shape of petiole cross sections, the thickness of cortex and pith shape in petioles and the arrangement of vessels in stems. Some anatomical characters proved useful to identify species, but not sections. Palynological results showed circular and obtuse triangular pollen in polar view and elliptical pollen in equatorial view with reticulate ornamentation. In addition, a cluster analysis was done based on morphological, anatomical and palynological features. The resulting dendrogram confirmed the taxonomic treatment suggested by Sirjaev and Rechinger.
Disturbances of gastrointestinal transit and autonomic functions in postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome
Authors: Loavenbruck A. , Iturrino J. , Singer W. , Sletten D. M. , Low P. A. , Zinsmeister A. R. , Bharucha A. E.
Published: December 2014

Background

Gastrointestinal symptoms are common in the postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). However, few studies have evaluated gastrointestinal transit in POTS. Our primary objectives were to evaluate gastrointestinal emptying and the relationship with autonomic dysfunctions in POTS.

Methods

We reviewed the complete medical records of all patients aged 18 years and older with POTS diagnosed by a standardized autonomic reflex screen who also had a scintigraphic assessment of gastrointestinal transit at Mayo Clinic Rochester between 1998 and 2012. Associations between specific gastric emptying and autonomic (i.e., cardiovagal, adrenergic, and sudomotor) disturbances were evaluated.

Key Results

Among 163 patients (140 women, mean [±SEM] age 30 [±1] years), 55 (34%) had normal, 30 (18%) had delayed, and 78 (48%) had rapid gastric emptying. Fifty‐eight patients (36%) had clinical features of physical deconditioning, which was associated (p = 0.02) with rapid gastric emptying. Associations with delayed gastric emptying included vomiting, which was more common (p < 0.003), and anxiety or depression, which was less common (p = 0.02). The tilt‐associated increase in heart rate and reduction in systolic BP at 1 min was associated (p < 0.05), being greater in patients with delayed gastric emptying.

Conclusions & Inferences

Two‐thirds of patients with POTS and GI symptoms had abnormal, most frequently rapid gastric emptying. Except for more severe adrenergic impairment in patients with delayed gastric emptying, the pattern of autonomic dysfunction did not discriminate among gastric emptying groups. Further studies are necessary to ascertain whether extravascular volume depletion and/or deconditioning contribute to POTS in patients with gastrointestinal symptoms.
The betrayed thief – the extraordinary strategy ofAristolochia rotundato deceive its pollinators
Authors: Oelschlägel Birgit , Nuss Matthias , von Tschirnhaus Michael , Pätzold Claudia , Neinhuis Christoph , Dötterl Stefan , Wanke Stefan
Published: December 2014

Pollination of several angiosperms is based on deceit. In such systems, the flowers advertise a reward that ultimately is not provided. We report on a previously unknown pollination/mimicry system discovered in deceptiveAristolochia rotunda(Aristolochiaceae).

Pollinators were collected in the natural habitat and identified. Flower scent and the volatiles of insects (models) potentially mimicked were analyzed by chemical analytical techniques. Electrophysiological and behavioral tests on the pollinators identified the components that mediate the plant–pollinator interaction and revealed the model of the mimicry system.

The main pollinators ofA. rotundawere female Chloropidae. They are food thieves that feed on secretions of true bugs (Miridae) while these are eaten by arthropod predators. Freshly killed mirids andAristolochiaflowers released the same scent components that chloropids use to find their food sources.Aristolochiaexploits these components to deceive their chloropid pollinators.

Aristolochiaand other trap flowers were believed to lure saprophilous flies and mimic brood sites of pollinators. We demonstrate forA. rotunda,and hypothesize for other deceptive angiosperms, the evolution of a different, kleptomyiophilous pollination strategy. It involves scent mimicry and the exploitation of kleptoparasitic flies as pollinators. Our findings suggest a reconsideration of plants assumed to show sapromyiophilous pollination.
Literature review: perceptions and management of body size among normal weight and moderately overweight people
Authors: Nissen N. K. , Holm L.
Published: December 2014

Improved understanding of how normal weight and moderately overweight people manage their body weight and shape could be used to inform initiatives to prevent and treat obesity. This literature review offers a thorough appraisal of existing research into perceptions and management of own body size among normal weight and moderately overweight people. The studies reported in the 47 publications reviewed here address various themes based on different conceptualizations. The studies point out that normal weight and moderately overweight people are much concerned about their body size, but huge discrepancies are found between their own perceptions and study categorizations. The studies also indicate that normal weight and moderately overweight people are actively engaged in managing their body size through numerous managing strategies, and dieting is widespread. Together the studies do not form a unified and coherent research field, and there is a bias towards North American study populations. Methodological problems were identified in some publications, raising questions about generalizability of the findings. Moreover, only few studies give deeper insight into the specific perceptions and actions. Repeated studies are needed in broader and more differentiated geographical, social and cultural contexts, and longitudinal studies and more in‐depth explorations are especially needed.
Obatoclax induces Beclin 1‐ and ATG5‐dependent apoptosis and autophagy in adenoid cystic carcinoma cells
Authors: Liang L‐Z , Ma B , Liang Y‐J , Liu H‐C , Zhang T‐H , Zheng G‐S , Su Y‐X , Liao G‐Q
Published: December 2014

Objectives

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is one of the most common salivary gland cancers. The prognosis of adenoid cystic carcinoma is poor for its high frequency of distant metastases and insensitivity to chemotherapy or molecular therapies. This study investigated the effect of Obatoclax on adenoid cystic carcinoma cells and its cytotoxic mechanism.

Methods

Western blot, transmission electron microscopy, and pEGFP‐LC3 plasmids transfection were carried out to detect autophagy in ACC cells treated with Obatoclax. 3‐MA and RNA interference against Beclin 1 and ATG5 were used to inhibit autophagy. Then we used Western blot and Hochest 33342 staining for apoptosis assessment. Finally, cell viability was assessed by MTT assay.

Results

We found that Obatoclax induced cytoprotective autophagy which depended on ATG5 and partly on Beclin 1 in adenoid cystic carcinoma cells. Furthermore, pharmacologically inhibiting Obatoclax‐induced autophagy promoted apoptosis. Downregulation of Beclin 1 or ATG5 attenuated the cytotoxicity of Obatoclax by suppressing both autophagy and apoptosis. Finally, when apoptosis was pharmacologically inhibited, autophagic cell death was initiated in adenoid cystic carcinoma cells treated with Obatoclax.

Conclusion

In summary, Beclin 1 and ATG5 play important roles in regulating both Obatoclax‐induced autophagy and apoptosis in adenoid cystic carcinoma.
Clinical characteristics of lichen and dysplasia vs lichen planus cases and dysplasia cases
Authors: Czerninski R , Zeituni S , Maly A , Basile J
Published: December 2014

Objectives

To compare the clinical characteristics of lichen planus with dysplasia (LD) cases with oral dysplasia (DYS), and LP/lichenoid reaction (LP/LR).

Methods

Patients treated at the Department of Oral Medicine with a histological diagnosis were included. Patient information (age, gender, ethnicity, smoking habits, and medical status) and parameters of oral manifestation (lesions' distribution, site, and type) were compared.

Results

Two hundred and thirty five patients were included. 54% were never smokers and 25% were current smokers. The LD group (n = 79) had more bilateral cases when compared to the DYS group (n = 30), 70% to 40.7%, respectively (P = 0.008), and a lower average age [56–62, respectively (P = 0.043)]. All other parameters were similar. When compared to LR patients, the LD group had a higher percentage of men [41.8–27.9%, respectively (P = 0.08)] while all other parameters were similar.

Conclusions

As clinical characteristics of LD are more similar to the LP and LR group than to dysplasia, these findings may indicate that LD should be considered as part of the lichen planus disorder spectrum rather than a separate entity, although further analysis of larger groups is warranted. These results support the need for clinical follow‐up among patients diagnosed with lichenoid changes.
Different initial responses of the canopy herbivory rate in mature oak trees to experimental soil and branch warming in a soil‐freezing area
Authors: Nakamura Masahiro , Nakaji Tatsuro , Muller Onno , Hiura Tsutom
Published: December 2014

Plants and insects comprise more than 50% of known species on earth, and their interactions are of major importance in most natural ecosystems. To understand the mechanisms by which global warming affects plant–insect interactions in the canopy of mature cool‐temperate forests with a freeze–thaw cycle, we examined changes in the herbivory rate and leaf traits in oak Quercus crispula. From 2007 to 2009, we experimentally increased the temperature of the surrounding soil and canopy branches of mature oak trees by approximately 5°C using electric heating cables. Soil warming decreased the rate of herbivory in the canopy, whereas branch warming had no effect. The magnitude of the effect of soil warming on canopy herbivory varied. For the first year, the decrease was 32%, but this doubled (63%) in the third year. Branch warming did not affect canopy leaf traits; however, soil warming decreased the leaf nutritional quality by decreasing N and increasing the carbon:nitrogen (CN) ratio for three years. Additionally, soil warming increased total phenolics in the third year. Stepwise multiple regression models showed that among the leaf traits that were changed by soil warming, N explained the variation in herbivory for the first and second years, whereas total phenolics explained it for the third year. Our experimental results demonstrate that soil warming drives the rate of herbivory in the canopy of mature oak trees, and the magnitude of the soil warming effect was gradually enhanced during the initial three years. This suggests the importance of belowground temperature elevation in predicting the effect of global warming on plant–insect interactions in a forest canopy.
Efficacy and Safety of Apixaban in the Patients Undergoing the Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: NAGAO TOMOYUKI , INDEN YASUYA , SHIMANO MASAYUKI , FUJITA MASAYA , YANAGISAWA SATOSHI , KATO HIROYUKI , ISHIKAWA SHINJI , MIYOSHI AYA , OKUMURA SATOSHI , OHGUCHI SHIOU , YAMAMOTO TOSHIHIKO , YOSHIDA NAOKI , HIRAI MAKOTO , MUROHARA TOYOAKI
Published: December 2014

Introduction

Apixaban, a factor Xa (FXa) inhibitor, is a new oral anticoagulant for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation (AF). However, little is known about its efficacy and safety as a periprocedural anticoagulant therapy for patients who had undergone catheter ablation (CA) for AF.

Methods and Results

We evaluated 342 consecutive patients who underwent CA for AF between April 2013 and March 2014 and received apixaban (n = 105) and warfarin (n = 237) for uninterrupted periprocedural anticoagulation. We retrospectively investigated the occurrence of bleeding and thromboembolic complications during the procedural period and compared them between the apixaban group (AG) and warfarin group (WG). Thromboembolic complications occurred in one (0.4%) patient in the WG. Major and minor bleeding complications occurred in one (1%) and four (4%) patients in the AG, and three (1%) and 12 (5%) patients in the WG. No significant difference in complications was observed between the AG and WG. Of importance, adverse event rates did not differ between the two groups after adjusting by a propensity score analysis. In preoperative tests of blood coagulation, there were significant differences in the prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, FXa activity, and prothrombin fragment 1 + 2 (F1+2) levels between the AG and WG.

Conclusion

The use of apixaban during the periprocedural period of AF ablation seemed as efficacious and safe as warfarin.
The Added Value of Partnership with NATO for South Korean Security
Authors: Ko Sangtu , Park Seong‐yong
Published: December 2014

Although NATO was originally created to address regional security concerns, since the end of the Cold War it has expanded its role and partnership to take on new security challenges. In this article, we examine what security gains South Korea could expect to achieve from engaging in NATO's global partnership security cooperation framework. Our analysis focuses on the possible benefits of security cooperation between the two partners at three different geographic levels, namely, the Korean Peninsula, Northeast Asia, and the global arena. We conclude that South Korea could draw security gains from cooperation with NATO at all three levels. First, partnership with NATO is likely to contribute to peace on the Korean Peninsula. In particular, NATO could participate in post‐Six‐Party Talks, which have failed to solve the North Korean nuclear problem. NATO would also be able to engage in humanitarian intervention if a crisis arose in North Korea. Second, NATO could contribute to peace in Northeast Asia. Security tensions in the region are currently increasing, as China is pursuing an assertive form of diplomacy while Japan is seeking to actively engage in military conflicts abroad. NATO could also provide support for the United States, which is having difficulty deterring these regional powers. Third, South Korea could cooperate with NATO in peacekeeping operations at a global level. Cooperation with NATO would enhance the effectiveness of South Korea's peacekeeping operations.