bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The other ocean acidification problem: CO
2
as a resource among competitors for ecosystem dominance
Authors: Connell Sean D. , Kroeker Kristy J. , Fabricius Katharina E. , Kline David I. , Russell Bayden D.
Published: August 2013

Predictions concerning the consequences of the oceanic uptake of increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO
2
) have been primarily occupied with the effects of ocean acidification on calcifying organisms, particularly those critical to the formation of habitats (e.g. coral reefs) or their maintenance (e.g. grazing echinoderms). This focus overlooks direct and indirect effects of CO
2
on non-calcareous taxa that play critical roles in ecosystem shifts (e.g. competitors). We present the model that future atmospheric [CO
2
] may act as a resource for mat-forming algae, a diverse and widespread group known to reduce the resilience of kelp forests and coral reefs. We test this hypothesis by combining laboratory and field CO
2
experiments and data from ‘natural’ volcanic CO
2
vents. We show that mats have enhanced productivity in experiments and more expansive covers
in situ
under projected near-future CO
2
conditions both in temperate and tropical conditions. The benefits of CO
2
are likely to vary among species of producers, potentially leading to shifts in species dominance in a high CO
2
world. We explore how ocean acidification combines with other environmental changes across a number of scales, and raise awareness of CO
2
as a resource whose change in availability could have wide-ranging community consequences beyond its direct effects.
Emiliania huxleyi
increases calcification but not expression of calcification-related genes in long-term exposure to elevated temperature and
p
CO
2
Authors: Benner Ina , Diner Rachel E. , Lefebvre Stephane C. , Li Dian , Komada Tomoko , Carpenter Edward J. , Stillman Jonathon H.
Published: August 2013

Increased atmospheric
p
CO
2
is expected to render future oceans warmer and more acidic than they are at present. Calcifying organisms such as coccolithophores that fix and export carbon into the deep sea provide feedbacks to increasing atmospheric
p
CO
2
. Acclimation experiments suggest negative effects of warming and acidification on coccolithophore calcification, but the ability of these organisms to adapt to future environmental conditions is not well understood. Here, we tested the combined effect of
p
CO
2
and temperature on the coccolithophore
Emiliania huxleyi
over more than 700 generations. Cells increased inorganic carbon content and calcification rate under warm and acidified conditions compared with ambient conditions, whereas organic carbon content and primary production did not show any change. In contrast to findings from short-term experiments, our results suggest that long-term acclimation or adaptation could change, or even reverse, negative calcification responses in
E. huxleyi
and its feedback to the global carbon cycle. Genome-wide profiles of gene expression using RNA-seq revealed that genes thought to be essential for calcification are not those that are most strongly differentially expressed under long-term exposure to future ocean conditions. Rather, differentially expressed genes observed here represent new targets to study responses to ocean acidification and warming.
Long-term effects of warming and ocean acidification are modified by seasonal variation in species responses and environmental conditions
Authors: Godbold Jasmin A. , Solan Martin
Published: August 2013

Warming of sea surface temperatures and alteration of ocean chemistry associated with anthropogenic increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide will have profound consequences for a broad range of species, but the potential for seasonal variation to modify species and ecosystem responses to these stressors has received little attention. Here, using the longest experiment to date (542 days), we investigate how the interactive effects of warming and ocean acidification affect the growth, behaviour and associated levels of ecosystem functioning (nutrient release) for a functionally important non-calcifying intertidal polychaete (Alitta virens) under seasonally changing conditions. We find that the effects of warming, ocean acidification and their interactions are not detectable in the short term, but manifest over time through changes in growth, bioturbation and bioirrigation behaviour that, in turn, affect nutrient generation. These changes are intimately linked to species responses to seasonal variations in environmental conditions (temperature and photoperiod) that, depending upon timing, can either exacerbate or buffer the long-term directional effects of climatic forcing. Taken together, our observations caution against over emphasizing the conclusions from short-term experiments and highlight the necessity to consider the temporal expression of complex system dynamics established over appropriate timescales when forecasting the likely ecological consequences of climatic forcing.
Evaluating a multispecies adaptive management framework: must uncertainty impede effective decision‐making?
Authors: Smith David R. , McGowan Conor P. , Daily Jonathan P. , Nichols James D. , Sweka John A. , Lyons James E.
Published: August 2013

Application of adaptive management to complex natural resource systems requires careful evaluation to ensure that the process leads to improved decision‐making. As part of that evaluation, adaptive policies can be compared with alternative nonadaptive management scenarios. Also, the value of reducing structural (ecological) uncertainty to achieving management objectives can be quantified.

A multispecies adaptive management framework was recently adopted by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission for sustainable harvest of Delaware Bay horseshoe crabsLimulus polyphemus,while maintaining adequate stopover habitat for migrating red knotsCalidris canutus rufa, the focal shorebird species. The predictive model set encompassed the structural uncertainty in the relationships between horseshoe crab spawning, red knot weight gain and red knot vital rates. Stochastic dynamic programming was used to generate a state‐dependent strategy for harvest decisions given that uncertainty. In this paper, we employed a management strategy evaluation approach to evaluate the performance of this adaptive management framework. Active adaptive management was used by including model weights as state variables in the optimization and reducing structural uncertainty by model weight updating.

We found that the value of information for reducing structural uncertainty is expected to be low, because the uncertainty does not appear to impede effective management. Harvest policy responded to abundance levels of both species regardless of uncertainty in the specific relationship that generated those abundances. Thus, the expected horseshoe crab harvest and red knot abundance were similar when the population generating model was uncertain or known, and harvest policy was robust to structural uncertainty as specified.

Synthesis and applications. The combination of management strategy evaluation with state‐dependent strategies from stochastic dynamic programming was an informative approach to evaluate adaptive management performance and value of learning. Although natural resource decisions are characterized by uncertainty, not all uncertainty will cause decisions to be altered substantially, as we found in this case. It is important to incorporate uncertainty into the decision framing and evaluate the effect of reducing that uncertainty on achieving the desired outcomes.
Spread of invasive ragweed: climate change, management and how to reduce allergy costs
Authors: Richter Robert , Berger Uwe E. , Dullinger Stefan , Essl Franz , Leitner Michael , Smith Matthew , Vogl Gero
Published: August 2013

Ragweed Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. is rapidly spreading in Europe. Its pollen is highly allergenic, with 4–5% of Europeans being sensitized. There is an urgent need to curtail the further spread to minimize allergy costs.

We simulated the spread of ragweed in Austria and southern Germany (Bavaria) until 2050 with particular emphasis on expected climate change. Using different management scenarios and levels of management effort, we analysed the potential for reducing human allergy costs, that is, expenses caused by allergies from ragweed pollen, by curtailing the accelerating spread of ragweed. We accounted for three contrasting climate assumptions: no change in temperature and moderate (annual temperature increase of 0·025 °C) and more extreme (annual temperature increase of 0·04 °C) climate change.

We found that a carefully designed management plan consisting of survey and eradication can drastically reduce the spread of ragweed. Without management, mean allergy costs for the management period (2011–2050) amount to about 290, 335 and 365 million € annually under the three climate change assumptions.

Following an optimally allocated management strategy with an annual budget of 30 million € reduces mean allergy costs by 258, 295 and 325 million € per year. Thus, the management may yield substantial savings, in particular under more extreme warming, where total savings over 40 years amount to about 12 billion €.

Synthesis and applications. Our study illustrates that management of invasive alien species has an economic benefit beside natural conservation. We provide guidance for the future management using the example of ragweed in Austria and Bavaria and show that although the species has expanded its range and abundance substantially in recent years, a well‐designed and ambitious management programme still may yield substantial benefits. This is true for current climatic conditions as well as for future climate change scenarios, albeit management costs increase with a warming climate. However, possible gains are increasing in parallel. Given the scale of impacts on human health, and the substantial gains accrued from management, our results suggest that it is wise to halt further spread of ragweed.
Harnessing History: Narratives, Identity and Perceptions of Russia's Post-Soviet Role
Authors: Chatterje-Doody P. N.
Published: August 2013

Russian political elites have long been aware of the power of myths to forge national unity. However, the past six or seven years have seen core myths increasingly situated within a highly selective narrative of Russian history. This narrative is accepted as contextual information for policy discussion, and so sets cognitive parameters for evaluations of Russia's history, identity and role. This standard narrative of Russian history prioritises the state, supports gradualism and continuity, and dramatically reduces the potential for re-conceptualising Russia's role in contemporary international relations.
Moral Hazard with Discrete Soft Information
Authors: Roger Guillaume
Published: August 2013

I study a model of moral hazard with soft information. The risk‐averse agent takes an action and she alone observes the stochastic outcome; hence the principal faces a problem of ex post adverse selection as well. With limited instruments, the principal cannot solve these two problems independently. To elicit ex post information revelation, he must use an audit mechanism and distort the transfer schedule, as compared to the standard moral hazard problem. This is socially costly in that these transfer distortions imply effort distortions. These results are robust and suggest high‐power contracts may have to be revisited when information is soft.
Home Blood Pressure Control After the Great East Japan Earthquake in Patients on Chronic Hemodialysis
Authors: Tanaka Kenichi , Nakayama Masaaki , Kanno Makoto , Kimura Hiroshi , Watanabe Kimio , Tani Yoshihiro , Hayashi Yoshimitsu , Asahi Koichi , Suzuki Kazuhiro , Watanabe Tsuyoshi
Published: August 2013

At 14:46 on 11 March 2011, northeastern Japan was struck by a major earthquake measuring 9.0 on the Richter scale (the Great East Japan Earthquake). Several reports have suggested a transient blood pressure (BP) increase after a major earthquake, but its impact on BP in chronic dialysis patients has not been reported. In a retrospective review of 25 hemodialysis patients who were residents of Koriyama City, changes in the morning home BP after the earthquake were investigated. Home systolic and diastolic BPs were significantly elevated 1 week after the earthquake (158 ± 16 mm Hg vs. 151 ± 13 mm Hg, P < 0.01, for systolic; 81 ± 13 mm Hg vs. 78 ± 11 mm Hg, P = 0.01, for diastolic). Mean home BP 1 week after the earthquake was unchanged from baseline in patients treated with sympatholytics and/or renin‐angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors. BP values returned to baseline by 4 weeks after the earthquake, but percent changes in mean BP were significantly greater even 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 6 weeks after the earthquake in patients not treated with RAS inhibitors than in those treated with RAS inhibitors (2 weeks 7.0% ± 4.5% vs. 0.2% ± 5.0%, P < 0.01; 4 weeks 4.4% ± 5.9% vs. −1.8% ± 5.3%, P = 0.02; 6 weeks 4.6% ± 4.9% vs. −1.9% ± 3.9%, P < 0.01). On multiple regression analysis, RAS inhibitor use had an independent relationship with percentage increases in mean BP during the 6 weeks after the earthquake. Home BP was significantly increased after a major earthquake in patients on chronic hemodialysis. Prolonged deterioration of BP control after the earthquake was associated with non‐use of RAS inhibitors.
A new approach for objective identification of turns and steps in organism movement data relevant to random walk modelling
Authors: Humphries Nicolas E. , Weimerskirch Henri , Sims David W.
Published: August 2013

A first step in the analysis of complex movement data often involves discretisation of the path into a series of step‐lengths and turns, for example in the analysis of specialised random walks, such as Lévy flights. However, the identification of turning points, and therefore step‐lengths, in a tortuous path is dependent on ad‐hoc parameter choices. Consequently, studies testing for movement patterns in these data, such as Lévy flights, have generated debate. However, studies focusing on one‐dimensional (1D) data, as in the vertical displacements of marine pelagic predators, where turning points can be identified unambiguously have provided strong support for Lévy flight movement patterns.

Here, we investigate how step‐length distributions in 3D movement patterns would be interpreted by tags recording in 1D (i.e. depth) and demonstrate the dimensional symmetry previously shown mathematically for Lévy‐flight movements. We test the veracity of this symmetry by simulating several measurement errors common in empirical datasets and find Lévy patterns and exponents to be robust to low‐quality movement data.

We then consider exponential and composite Brownian random walks and show that these also project into 1D with sufficient symmetry to be clearly identifiable as such.

By extending the symmetry paradigm, we propose a new methodology for step‐length identification in 2D or 3D movement data. The methodology is successfully demonstrated in a re‐analysis of wandering albatross Global Positioning System (GPS) location data previously analysed using a complex methodology to determine bird‐landing locations as turning points in a Lévy walk. For this high‐resolution GPS data, we show that there is strong evidence for albatross foraging patterns approximated by truncated Lévy flights spanning over 3·5 orders of magnitude.

Our simple methodology and freely available software can be used with any 2D or 3D movement data at any scale or resolution and are robust to common empirical measurement errors. The method should find wide applicability in the field of movement ecology spanning the study of motile cells to humans.
Associations of single nucleotide polymorphisms in candidate genes with the polled trait in Datong domestic yaks
Authors: Liu W. B. , Liu J. , Liang C. N. , Guo X. , Bao P. J. , Chu M. , Ding X. Z. , Wang H. B. , Zhu X. S. , Yan P.
Published: August 2013

The domestic yak (Bos grunniens) is an iconic symbol of animal husbandry at high altitudes. Yaks exhibit unique external characteristics including long hair and large horns. However, hornless yaks can be found in different breeds and different populations. The hornless trait is also known as polled, and the POLL locus has been fine‐mapped to chromosome 1 in cattle (Bos taurus), although the underlying genetic basis of the polled trait is still unclear in the yak. Thus, we performed an association study to identify the genetic polymorphisms responsible for the polled trait in the yak. Fifty polled Datong domestic yaks and 51 horned individuals were selected randomly from a huge herd and were used as the case and control groups respectively for the association analysis. Twelve genes located in the candidate region of the POLL locus in cattle were used as references to detect DNA polymorphisms related to yak polledness, which were analyzed by sequencing and a high‐resolution melting test. We applied Fisher's exact test and haplotype analysis to show that a 147‐kb segment that included three protein‐coding genes C1H21orf62, GCFC1 and SYNJ1 was the most likely location of the POLL mutation in domestic yaks.
In Vitro Hydrodynamic Analysis of Pin and Cone Bearing Designs of the Jarvik 2000 Adult Ventricular Assist Device
Authors: Stanfield J. Ryan , Selzman Craig H.
Published: August 2013

The Jarvik 2000 adult ventricular assist device (VAD) is a second‐generation blood pump with mechanical contact bearings. The original configuration of the pump employed a pin bearing and a more recent configuration uses a cone bearing. We compare the hydrodynamic performance of the two designs under steady‐state and pulsatile flow conditions in vitro. Furthermore, we employ the Intermittent Low Speed (ILS) Flowmaker Controller to demonstrate the effect on pulsatility index (PI) performance of both device configurations. We use an open‐loop flow system in both steady‐state and pulsatile arrangements, complete with pressure transducers and flow probes. Working fluid was a 3.6 cP blood‐analog, glycerin‐water solution. Steady‐state flow tests were carried out to determine pressure‐flow (H‐Q) performance curves. Pulsatile tests under normotensive, hypertensive, and hypotensive conditions were executed with controller speed 3 (10 710 ± 250 rpm) at 100 beats per minute. Steady‐state tests show greater capacity for pressure and flow with the cone bearing, compared with pin bearing, with best efficiency point (BEP) 68% greater for cone bearing. Pulsatile tests show the cone bearing design to yield a 20% increase in Qavg, a 17% decrease in pulsatility index (PIQ), and a qualitative increase in pressure responsivity. The ILS mode (for both bearing designs) decreases Qavg by 68% and likewise increases PIQ by 360% and pulsatility ratio (Rpul) by 200%. The ILS controller regularly reduces the flow, increasing pulsatility index during device operation. The Jarvik 2000 continuous‐flow VAD can sustain pulsatile flow under pulsating pressure conditions. The new cone bearing design yields increased flow rates over the earlier pin bearing design.
Functionally biased signalling properties of 7TM receptors – opportunities for drug development for the ghrelin receptor
Authors: Sivertsen B , Holliday N , Madsen A N , Holst B
Published: August 2013

The ghrelin receptor is a 7 transmembrane (7TM) receptor involved in a variety of physiological functions including growth hormone secretion, increased food intake and fat accumulation as well as modulation of reward and cognitive functions. Because of its important role in metabolism and energy expenditure, the ghrelin receptor has become an important therapeutic target for drug design and the development of anti‐obesity compounds. However, none of the compounds developed so far have been approved for commercial use. Interestingly, the ghrelin receptor is able to signal through several different signalling pathways including Gαq, Gαi/o, Gα12/13 and arrestin recruitment. These multiple signalling pathways allow for functionally biased signalling, where one signalling pathway may be favoured over another either by selective ligands or through mutations in the receptor. In the present review, we have described how ligands and mutations in the 7TM receptor may bias the receptors to favour either one G‐protein over another or to promote G‐protein independent signalling pathways rather than G–protein‐dependent pathways. For the ghrelin receptor, both agonist and inverse agonists have been demonstrated to signal more strongly through the Gαq‐coupled pathway than the Gα12/13‐coupled pathway. Similarly a ligand that promotes Gαq coupling over Gαi coupling has been described and it has been suggested that several different active conformations of the receptor may exist dependent on the properties of the agonist. Importantly, ligands with such biased signalling properties may allow the development of drugs that selectively modulate only the therapeutically relevant physiological functions, thereby decreasing the risk of side effects.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Neuropeptides. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2013.170.issue‐7
Pharmacogenomics, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics: interaction with biological differences between men and women
Authors: Franconi Flavia , Campesi Ilaria
Published: August 2013

Pharmacological response depends on multiple factors and one of them is sex–gender. Data on the specific effects of sex–gender on pharmacokinetics, as well as the safety and efficacy of numerous medications, are beginning to emerge. Nevertheless, the recruitment of women for clinical research is inadequate, especially during the first phases. In general, pharmacokinetic differences between males and females are more numerous and consistent than disparities in pharmacodynamics. However, sex–gender pharmacodynamic differences are now increasingly being identified at the molecular level. It is now even becoming apparent that sex–gender influences pharmacogenomics and pharmacogenetics. Sex‐related differences have been reported for several parameters, and it is consistently shown that women have a worse safety profile, with drug adverse reactions being more frequent and severe in women than in men. Overall, the pharmacological status of women is less well studied than that of men and deserves much more attention. The design of clinical and preclinical studies should have a sex–gender‐based approach with the aim of tailoring therapies to an individual's needs and concerns.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Biological Sex and Cardiovascular Pharmacology. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2014.171.issue‐3
Lethal interactions among vertebrate top predators: a review of concepts, assumptions and terminology
Authors: Lourenço Rui , Penteriani Vincenzo , Rabaça João E. , Korpimäki Erkki
Published: August 2013

Lethal interactions among large vertebrate predators have long interested researchers because of ecological and conservation issues. Research focusing on lethal interactions among vertebrate top predators has used several terms with a broad sense, and also introduced new terminology. We analysed the published literature with reference to the main underlying concepts and the use of terminology and its ecological context. The most frequently used terms in the literature were ‘predation’, ‘intraguild predation’, ‘interference competition’, and ‘interspecific killing’. Most studies presented evidence of the killing of the victim (77%), but information regarding its consumption was not given in 48% of cases. More than half of the analysed studies (56%) had no solid information on the degree of competition between interacting species. By reviewing definitions and their underlying assumptions, we demonstrate that lethal interactions among large vertebrate predators could be designated using four terms—‘predation’, ‘intraguild predation’, ‘interspecific competitive killing’, and ‘superpredation’—without the need to employ additional terminology that may increase confusion and misuse. For a correct framework of these lethal interactions it is critical to assess if the kill is consumed, if the victim is indeed a competitor of the killer, and if the prey is a high‐order predator. However, these elements of the framework are simultaneously the most common constraints to studies of lethal interactions, since they often require a great effort to obtain. The proper use of terms and concepts is fundamental to understanding the causes behind lethal interactions and, ultimately, what is actually happening in these complex interactions.
Planned Missing Data Designs for Developmental Researchers
Authors: Little Todd D. , Rhemtulla Mijke
Published: August 2013

Planned missing data designs allow researchers to collect incomplete data from participants by randomly assigning participants to have missing items on a survey (multiform designs) or missing measurement occasions in a longitudinal design (wave missing designs) or by administering an intensive measure to a small subsample of a larger dataset (two‐method measurement designs). When these designs are implemented correctly and when missingness is dealt with using a modern approach, the cost of data collection is lowered (sometimes dramatically) and reduced participant burden may result in higher validity as well as lower rates of unplanned missing data. In reviewing these planned missing designs, we briefly describe results of ongoing research on bias and power associated with each.
Anti-CD40 ligand monoclonal antibody delays the progression of murine autoimmune cholangitis
Authors: Tanaka H , Yang G-X , Iwakoshi N , Knechtle S J , Kawata K , Tsuneyama K , Leung P , Coppel R L , Ansari A A , Joh T , Bowlus C , Gershwin M E
Published: August 2013

While there have been significant advances in our understanding of the autoimmune responses and the molecular nature of the target autoantigens in primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), unfortunately these data have yet to be translated into new therapeutic agents. We have taken advantage of a unique murine model of autoimmune cholangitis in which mice expressing a dominant negative form of transforming growth factor β receptor II (dnTGFβRII), under the control of the CD4 promoter, develop an intense autoimmune cholangitis associated with serological features similar to human PBC. CD40-CD40 ligand (CD40L) is a major receptor–ligand pair that provides key signals between cells of the adaptive immune system, prompting us to determine the therapeutic potential of treating autoimmune cholangitis with anti-CD40L antibody (anti-CD40L; MR-1). Four-week-old dnTGFβRII mice were injected intraperitoneally with either anti-CD40L or control immunoglobulin (Ig)G at days 0, 2, 4 and 7 and then weekly until 12 or 24 weeks of age and monitored for the progress of serological and histological features of PBC, including rigorous definition of liver cellular infiltrates and cytokine production. Administration of anti-CD40L reduced liver inflammation significantly to 12 weeks of age. In addition, anti-CD40L initially lowered the levels of anti-mitochondrial autoantibodies (AMA), but these reductions were not sustained. These data indicate that anti-CD40L delays autoimmune cholangitis, but the effect wanes over time. Further dissection of the mechanisms involved, and defining the events that lead to the reduction in therapeutic effectiveness will be critical to determining whether such efforts can be applied to PBC.
An oral multiparticulate, modified‐release, hydrocortisone replacement therapy that provides physiological cortisol exposure
Authors: Whitaker Martin J. , Debono Miguel , Huatan Hiep , Merke Deborah P. , Arlt Wiebke , Ross Richard J.
Published: August 2013

Objective

It is not possible with current hydrocortisone replacement to mimic the diurnal cortisol profile in patients with adrenal insufficiency. Previous attempts with modified‐release technology were unsuccessful. Our objective was to develop hydrocortisone formulations that recreate the diurnal cortisol profile using multiparticulate technology.

Design and Measurements

Screening by in vitro dissolution profiles, pharmacokinetic (PK) testing in dexamethasone‐suppressed dogs and humans, and comparison with a reference population.

Setting

Field laboratories and clinical research facility.

Results

Formulations were generated using an enteric (delayed release) design configuration with an extended (sustained release) dissolution profile. In vitro dissolution confirmed delayed and sustained hydrocortisone release. However, in dogs and humans, sustained release resulted in reduced bioavailability. A formulation, DIURF‐006, was developed that maintained delayed release but omitted the sustained‐release functionality. PK characterization of DIURF‐006 showed that, despite absence of a sustained‐release component, absorption was sufficiently sustained to deliver extended hydrocortisone absorption. In dexamethasone‐suppressed volunteers (n = 16) receiving a twice‐daily ‘toothbrush’ regimen (20 mg at 23:00 h and 10 mg at 07:00 h), DIURF‐006 gave a similar cortisol profile to physiological cortisol levels: DIURF‐006 vs physiological, Geomean AUC 5610 vs 4706 h * nmol/l, Geomean Cmax 665 vs 594 nmol/l and Median Tmax 8·5 h vs clock time 08:12 h for peak cortisol. The relative bioavailability of DIURF‐006 vs hydrocortisone was 89%, and cortisol levels increased linearly with doses between 5 and 30 mg.

Conclusion

A multiparticulate oral hydrocortisone formulation with only an enteric coat provides delayed and sustained absorption and when given in a ‘toothbrush’ regimen provides physiological cortisol exposure.
Influence of Micro Threads Alteration on Osseointegration and Primary Stability of Implants: An FEA and In Vivo Analysis in Rabbits
Authors: Chowdhary Ramesh , Halldin Anders , Jimbo Ryo , Wennerberg Ann
Published: August 2013

Purpose

To describe the early bone tissue response to implants with and without micro threads designed to the full length of an oxidized titanium implant.

Materials and Methods

A pair of two‐dimensional finite element models was designed using a computer aided three‐dimensional interactive application files of an implant model with micro threads in between macro threads and one without micro threads. Oxidized titanium implants with (test implants n = 20) and without (control implants n = 20) micro thread were prepared. A total of 12 rabbits were used and each received four implants. Insertion torque while implant placement and removal torque analysis after 4 weeks was performed in nine rabbits, and histomorphometric analysis in three rabbits, respectively.

Results

Finite element analysis showed less stress accumulation in test implant models with 31Mpa when compared with 62.2 Mpa in control implant model. Insertion and removal torque analysis did not show any statistical significance between the two implant designs. At 4 weeks, there was a significant difference between the two groups in the percentage of new bone volume and bone‐to‐implant contact in the femur (p < .05); however, not in the tibia.

Conclusions

The effect of micro threads was prominent in the femur suggesting that micro threads promote bone formation. The stress distribution supported by the micro threads was especially effective in the cancellous bone.
Patterns of uptake in a biennial faecal occult blood test screening programme for colorectal cancer
Authors: Steele R. J. C. , McClements P. L. , Libby G. , Carey F. A. , Fraser C. G.
Published: August 2013

Aim

The patterns of response in faecal occult blood test (FOBT) screening were studied.

Method

A total of 251 578 people invited three times for faecal occult blood testing were categorized according to how they responded to the invitations, as follows: YNN, NYN, NNY, NYY, YNY, YYN, YYY or NNN (Y = response; N = no response).

Results

Overall, 163 038 (64.8%) responded at least once, and of those the biggest category was YYY (98 494, 60.4%). Of 1927 cancers diagnosed in the age group eligible for screening, there were 405 screen‐detected cancers, 529 interval cancers and 993 cancers arising in people who had not been screened for over 2 years (i.e. falling outside the interval cancer category). In the YYY group, 79 screen‐detected cancers would have been missed had the members of this group responded YNN and 65 had they responded YYN. In the YYN group, 104 screening cancers would have been missed if they had followed the YNN pattern. In most cases, the screen‐detected cancers were diagnosed at the last invitation accepted, indicating that, after a diagnosis of cancer, further screening invitations were rarely accepted. Accordingly, the numbers of screen‐detected and interval cancers were adjusted for likely pattern of response according to the proportion of the whole population falling into each pattern. With this adjustment, 40.9% of the cancers in the YYY group were screen detected compared with 29.3% in the YYN group and 20.7% in the YNN group (P < 0.001). Among those who responded once, twice and three times, the stage distribution of screen‐detected cancers was similar, indicating that the prognosis of screen‐detected cancer is unlikely to be poorer if not detected at the first screen.

Conclusion

This study is the first to examine patterns of response to screening invitations and confirms the importance to individuals of continuing to accept repeated screening invitations.
Gene expression profile is associated with chemoradiation resistance in rectal cancer
Authors: Gantt G. A. , Chen Y. , DeJulius K. , Mace A. G. , Barnholtz‐Sloan J. , Kalady M. F.
Published: August 2013

Aim

Patients with rectal cancer who achieve a complete pathological response after preoperative chemoradiation (CRT) have an improved oncological outcome. Identifying factors associated with a lack of response could help our understanding of the underlying biology of treatment resistance. This study aimed to develop a gene expression signature for CRT‐resistant rectal cancer using high‐throughput nucleotide microarrays.

Method

Pretreatment biopsies of rectal adenocarcinomas were prospectively collected and freshly frozen according to an institutional review board‐approved protocol. Total tumour mRNA was extracted and gene expression levels were measured using microarrays. Patients underwent proctectomy after completing standard long‐course CRT and the resected specimens were graded for treatment response. Gene expression profiles for nonresponders were compared with those of responders. Differentially expressed genes were analyzed for functional significance using the Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) software.

Results

Thirty‐three patients treated between 2006 and 2009 were included. We derived 812‐gene and 183‐gene signatures separating nonresponders from responders. The classifiers were able to identify nonresponders with a sensitivity and specificity of 100% using the 812‐gene signature, and sensitivity and specificity of 33% and 100% using the 183‐gene signature. IPA canonical pathway analysis revealed a significant ratio of differentially expressed genes in the ‘DNA double‐strand break repair by homologous recombination’ pathway.

Conclusion

Certain rectal cancer gene profiles are associated with poor response to CRT. Alterations in the DNA double‐strand break repair pathway could contribute to treatment resistance and provides an opportunity for further studies.
Treatment, outcome and quality of life after Fournier's gangrene: a multicentre study
Authors: Czymek R. , Kujath P. , Bruch H.‐P. , Pfeiffer D. , Nebrig M. , Seehofer D. , Guckelberger O.
Published: August 2013

Aim

The object of this study was to describe the course of Fournier's gangrene and assess quality of life in a group of affected patients.

Method

We evaluated patients who received inpatient treatment for Fournier's gangrene at five hospitals in northern Germany from 1995 to 2010. Surviving patients were asked to take part in a clinical follow‐up and complete the Short‐Form 36 (SF‐36) quality‐of‐life questionnaire and a disease‐specific questionnaire including a physical examination.

Results

Of the 86 patients, 72 (83.7%) were men. The mean age of the patients was 57.9 ± 13.9 (25–89) years. The mean length of hospital stay was 52.0 ± 54.0 (1–329) days. Fourteen (16.3%) patients (eight men) died primarily from Fournier's gangrene. The most common aetiological event was anogenital abscess formation (n = 24; 27.9%). Seventy‐one (82.5%) patients had a mixed polymicrobial infection. SF‐36 physical role functioning (P = 0.010), physical functioning (P = 0.008), general health (P = 0.010) and physical health summary (P = 0.006) scores were significantly lower than those of the normal population. Deterioration in sexual function was reported by 65% of the patients.

Conclusion

Patients with Fournier's gangrene experience persistent physical and mental health problems for a long period of time following their primary hospital stay and must receive long‐term care from a variety of specialists, otherwise the disease leads to an increase in the duration of morbidity and a decrease in quality of life.
Visualization and hypervascularization of the haemorrhoidal plexus in vivo using power Doppler imaging transanal ultrasonography and three‐dimensional power Doppler angiography
Authors: Miyamoto H. , Asanoma M. , Miyamoto H. , Takasu C. , Masamune K. , Shimada M.
Published: August 2013

Aim

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the distribution of haemorrhoidal arteries and the relationship between vascularity and growth of haemorrhoids.

Method

One‐hundred and three patients with haemorrhoids were studied. Using power Doppler imaging (PDI) transanal ultrasound and three‐dimensional power Doppler angiography (3D‐PDA), the course of the arteries supplying the haemorrhoids was identified. Measurement of the PDI area was made using the cursor to outline the power Doppler signal of the haemorrhoid, approximately 1 cm above the dentate line.

Results

The haemorrhoidal arteries were seen as branches of the superior rectal artery and were detected in 75.7, 71.8, 68.0 and 62.1% of the 11, 7, 3 and 1 o'clock positions in the lithotomy position. The median number of haemorrhoidal arteries significantly increased from three to six with progression of the Goligher classification from Grade 1 to Grade 4 (P < 0.0001). The PDI areas in Grades 1, 2, 3 and 4 were 0.04 ± 0.03, 0.18 ± 0.07, 0.38 ± 0.18 and 0.96 ± 0.32 cm2 (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The distribution of haemorrhoidal arteries varies widely in both number and position. Using PDI transanal ultrasonography and 3D‐PDA it was possible to visualize the haemorrhoid plexus and the course of the haemorrhoidal artery in vivo.
Collaborative Approach in the Development of High‐Performance Brain–Computer Interfaces for a Neuroprosthetic Arm: Translation from Animal Models to Human Control
Authors: Collinger Jennifer L. , Kryger Michael A. , Barbara Richard , Betler Timothy , Bowsher Kristen , Brown Elke H. P. , Clanton Samuel T. , Degenhart Alan D. , Foldes Stephen T. , Gaunt Robert A. , Gyulai Ferenc E. , Harchick Elizabeth A. , Harrington Deborah , Helder John B. , Hemmes Timothy , Johannes Matthew S. , Katyal Kapil D. , Ling Geoffrey S. F. , McMorland Angus J. C. , Palko Karina , Para Matthew P. , Scheuermann Janet , Schwartz Andrew B. , Skidmore Elizabeth R. , Solzbacher Florian , Srikameswaran Anita V. , Swanson Dennis P. , Swetz Scott , Tyler‐Kabara Elizabeth C. , Velliste Meel , Wang Wei , Weber Douglas J. , Wodlinger Brian , Boninger Michael L.
Published: August 2013

Our research group recently demonstrated that a person with tetraplegia could use a brain–computer interface (BCI) to control a sophisticated anthropomorphic robotic arm with skill and speed approaching that of an able‐bodied person. This multiyear study exemplifies important principles in translating research from foundational theory and animal experiments into a clinical study. We present a roadmap that may serve as an example for other areas of clinical device research as well as an update on study results. Prior to conducting a multiyear clinical trial, years of animal research preceded BCI testing in an epilepsy monitoring unit, and then in a short‐term (28 days) clinical investigation. Scientists and engineers developed the necessary robotic and surgical hardware, software environment, data analysis techniques, and training paradigms. Coordination among researchers, funding institutes, and regulatory bodies ensured that the study would provide valuable scientific information in a safe environment for the study participant. Finally, clinicians from neurosurgery, anesthesiology, physiatry, psychology, and occupational therapy all worked in a multidisciplinary team along with the other researchers to conduct a multiyear BCI clinical study. This teamwork and coordination can be used as a model for others attempting to translate basic science into real‐world clinical situations.
Panfollicular carcinoma or trichoblastic carcinoma with panfollicular differentiation?
Authors: Fedeles Flavia , Cha Jisun , Chaump Michael , Theroux Brian , Farrell David , Dufresne Raymond , Robinson‐Bostom Leslie
Published: August 2013

Herein, we report two cases of a follicular neoplasm with panfollicular differentiation showing architectural and cytologic findings suggestive of a malignancy. Immunohistochemical analysis of β‐catenin expression in the neoplasm showed nuclear and cytoplasmic immunoreactivity, with no reactivity in the transitional and shadow cells, consistent with β‐catenin expression of pilomatrical tumors. Staining for BerEp4 was positive at the periphery of both neoplasms, suggesting germinative differentiation of the neoplastic cells, whereas staining for the follicular stem‐cell marker PHLDA‐1 (TDAG51) showed strong focal expression in the tumor cells of both cases. Given these findings, these neoplasms show features of both panfollicular neoplasms and basal cell carcinoma with panfollicular/matrical differentiation. These are the first cases of this neoplasm reported to date. More reports are needed to assess their malignant potential.
757. CHLORANTHUS OLDHAMII
Authors: Cullen James
Published: August 2013

Chloranthus oldhamii Solms‐Laub. is described, and its position in the family Chloranthaceae is discussed. It is illustrated with a painting and line drawing. Suggestions for its successful cultivation are given.
758. IXIA MOSTERTII
Authors: Duncan Graham
Published: August 2013

The South African geophyte Ixia mostertii M.P. de Vos is a beautiful but highly threatened species endemic to the Upper Breede River Valley in the south‐western Cape. Details of its history and threats to its habitat and possible restoration are given, with notes on taxonomy, pollination and cultivation.
763. GUNDELIA TOURNEFORTII
Authors: Hind Nicholas
Published: August 2013

Gundelia tournefortiiL. (Compositae: Gundelieae) is described and illustrated, and its strange inflorescence morphology highlighted. The history of the discovery of this fascinating plant is covered from one of the first natural history collections made in the late 16th century in the Levant. The problematic taxonomy of this genus is discussed, both supragenerically and infragenerically. The species has very rarely been cultivated throughout its recent history, making a commentary on its cultivation and propagation a little difficult. The wide range of uses cover a history dating back at least 10,000 years, from the Neolithic sites of Iraq and Turkey, to its present day usage in the region. The importance of herbarium specimen data, as well as literature, for the ethnobotany of taxa is emphasized. A possible biblical connection is commented on in relation to the Shroud of Turin.
2‐(Undecyloxy)‐ethanol is a major component of the male‐produced aggregation pheromone of Monochamus sutor
Authors: Pajares Juan A. , Álvarez Gonzalo , Hall David R. , Douglas Paul , Centeno Felix , Ibarra Nieves , Schroeder Martin , Teale Stephen A. , Wang Zhiying , Yan Shanchun , Millar Jocelyn G. , Hanks Lawrence M.
Published: August 2013

The small white‐marmorated longicorn beetle, Monochamus sutor (L.) (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae), is widely distributed throughout Europe and Asia. It is a potential vector of the pine wood nematode, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus (Steiner et Buhrer) Nickle, the causal agent of the devastating pine wilt disease. Volatiles were collected from both male and female beetles after maturation feeding. In analyses of these collections using gas chromatography (GC) coupled to mass spectrometry, a single male‐specific compound was detected and identified as 2‐(undecyloxy)‐ethanol. In analyses by GC coupled to electroantennography the only consistent responses from both female and male antennae were to this compound. Trapping tests were carried out in Spain, Sweden, and China. 2‐(Undecyloxy)‐ethanol was attractive to both male and female M. sutor beetles. A blend of the bark beetle pheromones ipsenol, ipsdienol, and 2‐methyl‐3‐buten‐2‐ol was also attractive to both sexes in Spain and Sweden, and further increased the attractiveness of the 2‐(undecyloxy)‐ethanol. The host plant volatiles α‐pinene, 3‐carene, and ethanol were weakly attractive, if at all, in all three countries and did not significantly increase the attractiveness of the blend of 2‐(undecyloxy)‐ethanol and bark beetle pheromones. 2‐(Undecyloxy)‐ethanol is thus proposed to be the major, if not only, component of the male‐produced aggregation pheromone of M. sutor, and its role is discussed. This compound has been reported as a pheromone of several other Monochamus species and is another example of the parsimony that seems to exist among the pheromones of many of the Cerambycidae. Traps baited with 2‐(undecyloxy)‐ethanol and bark beetle pheromones should be useful for monitoring and control of pine wilt disease, should M. sutor be proven to be a vector of the nematode.
Conceptual distinctions between reflex and nonreflex precipitated seizures in the epilepsies: A systematic review of definitions employed in the research literature
Authors: Illingworth Josephine L. , Ring Howard
Published: August 2013

Seizure precipitation is a defining characteristic of reflex seizures and epilepsies, but seizure precipitants are also commonly reported for patients with epilepsies not considered to be reflex in nature. This raises the questions of exactly how reflex and nonreflex epilepsies with seizure precipitants are defined, and how these concepts are differentiated from one another in current practice. In this systematic literature review, definitions of reflex seizures, reflex epilepsies, and precipitation in a nonreflex context were extracted from published primary research papers. Content analysis was applied to these definitions to identify their main features, allowing comparisons to be made between definitions of the different concepts. Results indicated that there was little consistency within definitions of a given term, and that although some differences in definition content were found between terms, it was evident that clear defining characteristics to differentiate them from one another were lacking. These findings are discussed in the context of current debates regarding classification of the reflex epilepsies and the extent to which the distinction between reflex and nonreflex epilepsies is a meaningful one. Suggestions are made for how clarity might be increased in ongoing research in this area.
International Entrepreneurship: Exploring the Logic and Utility of Individual Experience through Comparative Reasoning Approaches
Authors: Jones Marian V. , Casulli Lucrezia
Published: August 2013

In this paper, we suggest that individual experience and reasoning, as applied to new endeavors in internationalization, are concepts with high potential to advance conceptual and empirical research in international entrepreneurship (IE). Experience is known to be important in internationalization, but the logic or reasoning with which it is applied is insufficiently understood. Cognitive, comparison–based reasoning theories explain how individuals draw on experience to make sense of uncertain, novel, and complex situations. Drawing on two such theories, heuristics and analogical reasoning, we delineate the logic of experience and advance speculative propositions on its utility in the context of internationalization research.