bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single‐incision laparoscopic hernioplasty versus multi‐incision laparoscopic hernioplasty: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Lai Hao , Li Guojian , Xiao Jun , Lin Yuan , Lu Bangyu
Published: March 2014

Background

Laparoscopic hernioplasty is the gold standard treatment for inguinal hernias. Recently, single‐incision laparoscopic hernioplasty (SILH) has been suggested as an alternative technique. It is not evident whether the benefits of this procedure overcome the potential increased risk.

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of SILH with conventional multi‐incision laparoscopic hernioplasty (MILH) using a meta‐analysis of available controlled clinical trials.

Methods

Eligible articles were identified by searching several databases including Embase, Cochrane, PubMed and Google Scholar databases, up until May 2013. Evaluated outcomes were operative time, post‐operative hospital stay, complications, conversion and recurrence.

Results

Eight controlled clinical trials on 926 patients were randomized to either SILH (495 patients) or MILH (431 patients) for meta‐analysis. Overall, there was no significant difference between SILH and MILH in complications, operative time for bilateral inguinal hernia repair, hospital stay, short‐term recurrence or conversions. However, the operative time for unilateral inguinal hernia repair was significantly longer for SILH than for MILH (standardized mean difference 0.23 (95% confidence interval: 0.09–0.38); P = 0.00, I2 = 73.6%).

Conclusions

Our meta‐analysis showed that SILH is feasible and safe in certain patients when compared to MILH, and carries a similar outcome, with the exception of longer operative times for unilateral inguinal hernia repair. Additional high‐powered randomized trials are needed to determine whether SILH truly offers any advantages; these future studies should focus particularly on failure of technique, pain score, analgesia requirements, cosmesis and quality of life.
Diet and Geophagy Across a Western Amazonian Parrot Assemblage
Authors: Lee Alan T. K. , Brightsmith Donald J. , Vargas Mario P. , Leon Karina Q. , Mejia Aldo J. , Marsden Stuart J.
Published: March 2014

We identified species‐ and community‐level dietary characteristics for a species‐rich Amazonian parrot assemblage to determine relationships among dietary metrics and use of geophagy sites. Previous studies suggest that soil is consumed at geophagy sites in this region mainly to supplement dietary sodium. We accumulated 1400 feeding records for 16 parrot species over 2 yr and found that seeds, flowers, and fruit pulp featured prominently in diets, while bark, insects, and lichen were consumed in small quantities. Food availability across 1819 trees was measured, and we found that flower availability was highest in the dry season and fruit production peaked in the wet season, but that phenology patterns of the 20 most commonly foraged plant species suggest no serious food bottlenecks. Partitioning of available food resources among the 13 most commonly encountered parrots is suggested by an ordination analysis (DCA), which placed the large macaws (Ara) with the Amazona parrots at the ‘primary forest’ end of a dietary resource axis and four smaller species at the ‘successional forest’ end of the axis. Parrot species associated with successional forest also consumed less plant species overall. Furthermore, these parrot species consuming successional forest resources had higher claylick visitation rates than those consuming primary forest resources suggesting they derive the greatest benefits from soil consumption.
Suppression of REV7 enhances cisplatin sensitivity in ovarian clear cell carcinoma cells
Authors: Niimi Kaoru , Murakumo Yoshiki , Watanabe Naoki , Kato Takuya , Mii Shinji , Enomoto Atsushi , Asai Masato , Asai Naoya , Yamamoto Eiko , Kajiyama Hiroaki , Shibata Kiyosumi , Kikkawa Fumitaka , Takahashi Masahide
Published: March 2014

Human REV7 (also known as MAD2L2 and MAD2B) is involved in DNA repair, cell cycle regulation, gene transcription, and carcinogenesis. In this study, we evaluated the expression of REV7 in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) and analyzed the association between its expression and chemosensitivity in ovarian clear cell carcinoma (CCC) cells. Expression of REV7 in human EOC tissues was assessed by immunohistochemical staining. Expression was detected in the majority of EOCs (92.0%) with especially high levels of expression frequently observed in CCCs (73.5%) compared with that of non‐CCCs (53.4%). Enhanced immunoreactivity to REV7 was associated with poor prognosis represented by reduced progression‐free survival in advanced stage (stage II–IV) EOC as assessed using Kaplan–Meier curves and log–rank tests. The effects of REV7 knockdown on cell proliferation and chemosensitivity in CCC cells were also analyzed in vitro and in vivo. Knockdown of REV7 in CCC cells decreased cell proliferation without affecting cell cycle distribution. Additionally, the number of apoptotic cells and DNA damaged cells were increased after cisplatin treatment. In a nude mouse tumor xenograft model, inoculated REV7‐knockdown tumors showed significantly reduced tumor volumes after cisplatin treatment compared with those of the control group. These findings indicate that depletion of REV7 enhances sensitivity to cisplatin treatment in CCC, suggesting that REV7 is a candidate molecular target in CCC management.
Bone resorption facilitates osteoblastic bone metastatic colonization by cooperation of insulin‐like growth factor and hypoxia
Authors: Kuchimaru Takahiro , Hoshino Takuya , Aikawa Tomoya , Yasuda Hisataka , Kobayashi Tatsuya , Kadonosono Tetsuya , Kizaka‐Kondoh Shinae
Published: March 2014

Bone metastasis is a multistep process that includes cancer cell dissemination, colonization, and metastatic growth. Furthermore, this process involves complex, reciprocal interactions between cancer cells and the bone microenvironment. Bone resorption is known to be involved in both osteolytic and osteoblastic bone metastasis. However, the precise roles of the bone resorption in the multistep process of osteoblastic bone metastasis remain unidentified. In this study, we show that bone resorption plays important roles in cancer cell colonization during the initial stage of osteoblastic bone metastasis. We applied bioluminescence/X‐ray computed tomography multimodal imaging that allows us to spatiotemporally analyze metastasized cancer cells and bone status in osteoblastic bone metastasis models. We found that treatment with receptor activator of factor‐κB ligand (RANKL) increased osteoblastic bone metastasis when given at the same time as intracardiac injection of cancer cells, but failed to increase metastasis when given 4 days after cancer cell injection, suggesting that RANKL‐induced bone resorption facilitates growth of cancer cells colonized in the bone. We show that insulin‐like growth factor‐1 released from the bone during bone resorption and hypoxia‐inducible factor activity in cancer cells cooperatively promoted survival and proliferation of cancer cells in bone marrow. These results suggest a mechanism that bone resorption and hypoxic stress in the bone microenvironment cooperatively play an important role in establishing osteoblastic metastasis.
Genotype–phenotype correlation of contiguous gene deletions of SLC6A8, BCAP31 and ABCD1
Authors: van de Kamp J.M. , Errami A. , Howidi M. , Anselm I. , Winter S. , Phalin‐Roque J. , Osaka H. , van Dooren S.J.M. , Mancini G.M. , Steinberg S.J. , Salomons G.S.
Published: March 2014

The BCAP31 gene is located between SLC6A8, associated with X‐linked creatine transporter deficiency, and ABCD1, associated with X‐linked adrenoleukodystrophy. Recently, loss‐of‐function mutations in BCAP31 were reported in association with severe developmental delay, deafness and dystonia. We characterized the break points in eight patients with deletions of SLC6A8, BCAP31 and/or ABCD1 and studied the genotype–phenotype correlations. The phenotype in patients with contiguous gene deletions involving BCAP31 overlaps with the phenotype of isolated BCAP31 deficiency. Only deletions involving both BCAP31 and ABCD1 were associated with hepatic cholestasis and death before 1 year, which might be explained by a synergistic effect. Remarkably, a patient with an isolated deletion at the 3′‐end of SLC6A8 had a similar severe phenotype as seen in BCAP31 deficiency but without deafness. This might be caused by the disturbance of a regulatory element between SLC6A8 and BCAP31.
FRACTIONALIZATION, POLARIZATION, AND ECONOMIC GROWTH: IDENTIFYING THE TRANSMISSION CHANNELS
Authors: PAPYRAKIS ELISSAIOS , MO PAK HUNG
Published: March 2014

In this article, we examine empirically both the direct and indirect links between ethnic fragmentation and economic growth. We find that both ethnic fractionalization and polarization are negatively associated with growth if considered in isolation; an effect that is though primarily attributed to their link to other growth‐related activities (i.e., investment, conflict, control of corruption, fertility). We study the corresponding transmission channels and calculate their relative importance in explaining a development curse based on ethnic diversity. For both measures of ethnic fragmentation, we find the corruption channel to be the most important one. (JEL C21, O11, Z13)
The vestibulo‐ and preposito‐cerebellar cholinergic neurons of a ChAT‐tdTomato transgenic rat exhibit heterogeneous firing properties and the expression of various neurotransmitter receptors
Authors: Zhang Yue , Kaneko Ryosuke , Yanagawa Yuchio , Saito Yasuhiko
Published: March 2014

Cerebellar function is regulated by cholinergic mossy fiber inputs that are primarily derived from the medial vestibular nucleus (MVN) and prepositus hypoglossi nucleus (PHN). In contrast to the growing evidence surrounding cholinergic transmission and its functional significance in the cerebellum, the intrinsic and synaptic properties of cholinergic projection neurons (ChPNs) have not been clarified. In this study, we generated choline acetyltransferase (ChAT)‐tdTomato transgenic rats, which specifically express the fluorescent protein tdTomato in cholinergic neurons, and used them to investigate the response properties of ChPNs identified via retrograde labeling using whole‐cell recordings in brainstem slices. In response to current pulses, ChPNs exhibited two afterhyperpolarisation (AHP) profiles and three firing patterns; the predominant AHP and firing properties differed between the MVN and PHN. Morphologically, the ChPNs were separated into two types based on their soma size and dendritic extensions. Analyses of the firing responses to time‐varying sinusoidal current stimuli revealed that ChPNs exhibited different firing modes depending on the input frequencies. The maximum frequencies in which each firing mode was observed were different between the neurons that exhibited distinct firing patterns. Analyses of the current responses to the application of neurotransmitter receptor agonists revealed that the ChPNs expressed (i) AMPA‐ and NMDA‐type glutamate receptors, (ii) GABAA and glycine receptors, and (iii) muscarinic and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. The current responses mediated by these receptors of MVN ChPNs were not different from those of PHN ChPNs. These findings suggest that ChPNs receive various synaptic inputs and encode those inputs appropriately across different frequencies.
Object size modulates fronto‐parietal activity during reaching movements
Authors: Tarantino Vincenza , De Sanctis Teresa , Straulino Elisa , Begliomini Chiara , Castiello Umberto
Published: March 2014

In both monkeys and humans, reaching‐related sensorimotor transformations involve the activation of a wide fronto‐parietal network. Recent neurophysiological evidence suggests that some components of this network host not only neurons encoding the direction of arm reaching movements, but also neurons whose involvement is modulated by the intrinsic features of an object (e.g. size and shape). To date, it has yet to be investigated whether a similar modulation is evident in the human reaching‐related areas. To fill this gap, we asked participants to reach towards either a small or a large object while kinematic and electroencephalographic signals were recorded. Behavioral results showed that the precision requirements were taken into account and the kinematics of reaching was modulated depending on the object size. Similarly, reaching‐related neural activity at the level of the posterior parietal and premotor cortices was modulated by the level of accuracy determined by object size. We therefore conclude that object size is engaged in the neural computations for reach planning and execution, consistent with the results from physiological studies in non‐human primates.
Post‐Contest Stridulation Used Exclusively as a Victory Display in Mangrove Crabs
Authors: Chen Paul Z. , Carrasco Luis R. , Ng Peter K. L.
Published: March 2014

Victory or triumph display is a post‐contest signal, performed only by winners and not by losers. While much is unknown about its function, there is mounting evidence that victory displays are widespread among animals. However, evidence remains anecdotal in crabs. Sesarmid crabs belonging to the genera Parasesarma and Perisesarma are known to have characteristic stridulatory structures on their chelipeds. In Perisesarma eumolpe, a mangrove crab, stridulation has been anecdotally purported as a triumph display. We examined whether stridulation in P. eumolpe is a victory display and the factors affecting it by staging 17 contest trials among males and investigating the factors influencing stridulations and fight outcome in 55 fights. Using generalised linear mixed‐effects models, we find that stridulations were generally performed by winners and after fights, especially when the fights were intense. In addition, stridulation was only observed in the context of a contest, never before or outside of it. Stridulation in P. eumolpe is likely a victory display, and, unlike other forms of victory display described for other species, it appears exclusively used for asserting victory.
Prevention of vagotonia and pain during radiofrequency ablation of liver tumors
Authors: Nakamura Shinichiro , Nouso Kazuhiro , Onishi Hideki , Kuwaki Kenji , Hagihara Hiroaki , Takeuchi Yasuto , Wada Nozomu , Morimoto Yuki , Miyahara Koji , Yasunaka Tetsuya , Ikeda Fusao , Miyake Yasuhiro , Kobayashi Yoshiyuki , Shiraha Hidenori , Ishikawa Shinichi , Takaki Akinobu , Yamamoto Kazuhide
Published: March 2014

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is frequently used to treat early stage hepatocellular carcinoma. Two of the most cumbersome side‐effects of the ablation procedure are intractable pain and vagotonia when deep sedation is not used. We describe local injection of anesthetic into Glisson's sheath as a new technique for overcoming these problems. Lidocaine was injected into Glisson's sheath when radiofrequency ablation of hepatocellular carcinomas, which were located adjacent to Glisson's sheath, could not be continued due to severe pain (n = 8) or bradycardia (n = 3). In all three patients who showed vagotonia with bradycardia during the ablations, injection of lidocaine prevented bradycardia, allowing completion of the radiofrequency ablation. Pain was reduced in all eight patients who experienced pain during ablation. No side‐effects were observed during the procedures. Injection of anesthetic into Glisson's sheath is simple and effective for reducing intractable pain and vagotonia associated with RFA.
After the Revolution: An Alternative Future for Atlantic History
Authors: Prior David
Published: March 2014

This essay argues for a reframed Atlantic history that abandons the concept of the “Atlantic World.” Though bold and creative, the Atlantic World concept has mired the field of Atlantic history in an unnecessary debate about that world's alleged coherence and distinctiveness. By foregrounding the tensions between these two criteria, this article offers a critique of the Atlantic World concept that goes beyond the often trenchant but nonetheless piecemeal criticisms that have been levied to date. In addressing these tensions, the goal of this article is not to condemn the broader enterprise of Atlantic history, but rather to call attention to an alternative formulation of it. We can practice Atlantic history without the Atlantic World concept because of two conditions that hold for much of early‐modern and modern history. First, from European maritime expansion on, connections across and around the Atlantic proliferated in ways that were neither natural nor inevitable. Second, the creation and severing of earlier connections tended to shape later ones in profound and perplexing ways. Atlantic history can serve as the field where diverse scholars pool their expertise to assess the relationships among these connections over time.
Psychometric testing of the Chinese Mandarin version of the MacNew Heart Disease Health‐related Quality of Life questionnaire for patients with myocardial infarction in mainland China
Authors: Wang Wenru , Lau Ying , Palham Sabrina , Chow Aloysius , He Hong‐gu
Published: March 2014

Tools to measure the quality of life of Chinese myocardial infarction (MI) patients in mainland China are small in numbers. For this study, 210 Chinese patients with MI were recruited to examine the psychometric properties of the Chinese Mandarin version of the MacNew Heart Disease questionnaire. Thirty‐five participants managed to complete the retest after 2 weeks. The MacNew Heart Disease questionnaire had acceptable internal consistency, test–retest reliability and concurrent validity. The principal components analysis identified three factors which accounted for 56.6% of the variance. The MacNew Heart Disease questionnaire demonstrated good reliability and validity to be used as a health status measurement tool, and is ready for clinical use in the assessment of the quality of life of Chinese MI patients in mainland China.
‘Rounding’ for better patient care: An evaluation of an improvement intervention implementation
Authors: Walker Kim , Duff Jed , Fitzgerald Katherine
Published: March 2014

‘Rounding’ is reported to be an effective intervention to enhance patient‐centred care; nurses make frequent calls on their patients to ensure their needs are met and reassure them they are the focus of their care. In our hospital, two clinical units implemented rounding as improvement projects and asked the research unit to evaluate the effectiveness of implementation. A qualitative descriptive study using focus groups and in‐depth interviews revealed that although the idea of rounding was well intended, it was not as effectively implemented as it might have been. Consequently, lessons have been learnt about the difficulties of changing clinician behaviour and will inform a new attempt at implementation.
Urinary incontinence in patients with Alzheimer's disease: Relationship between symptom status and urodynamic diagnoses
Authors: Lee Seong Ho , Cho Sung Tae , Na Hae Ri , Ko Seok Bum , Park Moon Ho
Published: March 2014

Objective

To assess factors associated with detrusor overactivity in urinary incontinence patients with Alzheimer's disease, and to determine the correlation between the degree of Alzheimer's disease and the presence of detrusor overactivity.

Methods

A total of 144 Alzheimer's disease patients (48 men, 96 women; aged 56–97 years) with urinary incontinence were enrolled in this protocol. Cognitive testing was carried out using the Mini‐Mental State Examination, the Clinical Dementia Rating scale, the Global Deterioration Scale and Barthel's Activities of Daily Living. Urinary incontinence was assessed using a frequency–volume chart and the Incontinence Questionnaire on Urinary Incontinence Short Form. All study participants had a urodynamic study carried out.

Results

Based on the Incontinence Questionnaire on Urinary Incontinence Short Form, the most common type of urinary incontinence was urge urinary incontinence followed by enuresis in men, whereas women most commonly complained of urge urinary incontinence followed by stress urinary incontinence. Detrusor overactivity was found in 57.6% of patients (25 men, 58 women) on urodynamic study. No statistical differences were found between those with and without detrusor overactivity in terms of age, sex or duration of education. No significant correlation was found between changes in Incontinence Questionnaire on Urinary Incontinence Short Form scores and those in the Mini‐Mental State Examination, Clinical Dementia Rating and Barthel's Activities of Daily Living status. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed the presence of detrusor overactivity could be predicted using Clinical Dementia Rating and Barthel's Activities of Daily Living scores (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The most common type of urinary incontinence in patients with Alzheimer's disease is urge urinary incontinence. Clinical Dementia Rating and Barthel's Activities of Daily Living predict the severity of detrusor overactivity in this patient population.
Remembering RH Tawney: Biography, legacy, example
Authors: Goldman Lawrence
Published: March 2014

Historian and biographer Lawrence Goldman examines the life of RH Tawney – soldier, Christian, socialist – and uncovers a man whose political ethos of social involvement and education directly challenges today's more instrumental political left.
Double‐blind, randomized non‐inferiority trial of a novel botulinum toxin A processed from the strain CBFC26, compared with onabotulinumtoxin A in the treatment of glabellar lines
Authors: Kim B.J. , Kwon H.H. , Park S.Y. , Min S.U. , Yoon J.Y. , Park Y.M. , Seo S.H. , Ahn J.Y. , Lee H.K. , Suh D.H.
Published: March 2014

Background

Botulinum toxins have been widely used in cosmetic dermatology. Neurotoxin from the CBFC26 strain (NTC) is a recently developed botulinum toxin type A product manufactured through refined procedures.

Objective

A double‐blinded, randomized, multicentre‐designed, phase III trial to investigate the non‐inferiority of NTC to existing botulinum toxin A, onabotulinumtoxin A in the treatment of moderate to severe glabellar lines.

Methods

A total of 272 subjects were randomized in a 1 : 1 ratio to receive 20 U of NTC or onabotulinumtoxin A. The primary endpoint was the response rate of physicians' assessment (PA) using the Facial Wrinkle Scale at week 4. The secondary endpoints included the response rate of PA at weeks 8, 12 and 16, and photographic assessment at weeks 4, 8, 12 and 16. Subjects' improvement assessment and subjective self‐satisfaction levels were also investigated.

Results

Response rates for maximum frown were 89.3% in the NTC group and 81.9% in the onabotulinumtoxin A group at week 4. NTC also resulted in comparable results for both the response rates of the other evaluation points and incidence of adverse events compared to those of onabotulinumtoxin A. In subjects' improvement assessment and photographic evaluations, NTC even demonstrated better results compared with onabotulinumtoxin A in the early phase after treatment. Analysis of these results strongly supports the non‐inferiority of NTC to onabotulinumtoxin A in the efficacy and safety.

Conclusion

NTC is as effective as onabotulinumtoxin A in the treatment of glabellar lines, and both products were well tolerated.
Ecological divergence and sexual selection drive sexual size dimorphism in new world pitvipers (Serpentes: Viperidae)
Authors: Hendry C. R. , Guiher T. J. , Pyron R. A.
Published: March 2014

Hypotheses for the origin and maintenance of sexual size dimorphism (SSD) fall into three primary categories: (i) sexual selection on male size, (ii) fecundity selection on female size and (iii) ecological selection for gender‐specific niche divergence. We investigate the impact of these forces on SSD evolution in New World pitvipers (Crotalinae). We constructed a phylogeny from up to eight genes (seven mitochondrial, one nuclear) for 104 species of NW crotalines. We gathered morphological and ecological data for 82 species for comparative analyses. There is a strong signal of sexual selection on male size driving SSD, but less evidence for fecundity selection on female size across lineages. No support was found for allometric scaling of SSD (Rensch's rule), nor for directional selection for increasing male size (the Fairbairn–Preziosi hypothesis) in NW crotalines. Interestingly, arboreal lineages experience higher rates of SSD evolution and a pronounced shift to female‐biased dimorphism. This suggests that fecundity selection on arboreal females exaggerates ecologically mediated dimorphism, whereas sexual selection drives male size in terrestrial lineages. We find that increasing SSD in both directions (male‐ and female‐biased) decreases speciation rates. In NW crotalines, it appears that increasing magnitudes of ecologically mediated SSD reduce rates of speciation, as divergence accumulates within species among sexes, reducing adaptive divergence between populations leading to speciation.
The effects of landscape on bumblebees to ensure crop pollination in the highland agricultural ecosystems in China
Authors: Xie Z. , An J.
Published: March 2014

Honey bees and wild bees provide critical pollination services to agricultural ecosystems; however, the relative contributions of different bee taxa are not well understood. The natural habitats surrounding farmland support food and nesting resources for wild bees and therefore play an important role in the maintenance of crop pollination. In this study, we selected Cucurbita pepo L. (squash) as a model crop to investigate the relative importance of honey bees and bumblebees in pollinating the crop. Thirteen fields, which were surrounded by a gradient of natural habitat, were investigated on the Yunnan‐Guizhou Plateau in China. We measured the visit densities of honey bees and bumblebees, the number of pollen grains deposited in a single visit by the two bee taxa, as well as the overall pollen grains deposited on stigmas during a flowering day, and then used Bayesian inference to decouple the pollen grains deposited by either the honey bees or the bumblebees. Compared with honey bees, bumblebees deposited a higher number of pollen grains on stigmas in a single visit, but had a lower visit density than honey bees. Meanwhile, the bumblebee visit density increased along the proportion of natural habitat, while the honey bee visit density was not affected by the surrounding natural habitat. Data simulations using Bayesian inference showed that on a flowering day, the number of pollen grains deposited by bumblebees increased with the proportion of natural habitat in the surrounding landscape, but the number of pollen grains deposited by honey bees did not. Moreover, the total numbers of pollen grains deposited by honey bees or bumblebees alone were all below 2000 (the critical level to satisfy the pollination requirement of this crop). Pollen calculations demonstrated that the number of pollen grains deposited by the two bee taxa was greater than 2000 in fields surrounded by more than 13% natural habitat (grasslands and forests). The results revealed that bumblebees ensured C. pepo pollination in combination with honey bees in the highland agricultural ecosystems.
Cerebral Blood Flow Reduction Associated with Orientation for Time in Amnesic Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer Disease Patients
Authors: Yamashita Ken‐ichiro , Taniwaki Yoshihide , Utsunomiya Hidetsuna , Taniwaki Takayuki
Published: March 2014

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Impairment of orientation for time (OT) is a characteristic symptom of Alzheimer disease (AD). However, the brain regions underlying OT remain to be elucidated. Using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), we examined the brain regions exhibiting hypoperfusion that were associated with OT.

METHODS

We compared regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) differences between AD and amnesic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) or normal subjects using 3‐dimensional stereotactic surface projection (3D‐SSP) analysis. AD patients were divided into OT good and poor groups according to their mean OT scores, and rCBF then compared between the groups to elucidate OT‐specific brain areas.

RESULTS

3D‐SSP analysis showed reduced rCBF in the left superior parietal lobule (SPL) and bilateral inferior parietal lobule (IPL) in AD patients. In the poor OT group, 3D‐SSP analysis revealed hypoperfusion in the bilateral SPL, IPL, posterior cingulated cortex (PCC), and precuneus. Among these areas, region of interest analysis revealed a significant higher number of hypoperfused pixels in the left PCC in the OT poor AD group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our SPECT study suggested that hypoperfusion in the left SPL and bilateral IPL was AD specific, and reduced rCBF in the left PCC was specifically associated with OT.
Spinal Cord Normalization in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Oh Jiwon , Seigo Michaela , Saidha Shiv , Sotirchos Elias , Zackowski Kathy , Chen Min , Prince Jerry , Diener‐West Marie , Calabresi Peter A. , Reich Daniel S.
Published: March 2014

BACKGROUND

Spinal cord (SC) pathology is common in multiple sclerosis (MS), and measures of SC‐atrophy are increasingly utilized. Normalization reduces biological variation of structural measurements unrelated to disease, but optimal parameters for SC volume (SCV)‐normalization remain unclear. Using a variety of normalization factors and clinical measures, we assessed the effect of SCV normalization on detecting group differences and clarifying clinical–radiological correlations in MS.

METHODS

3T cervical SC‐MRI was performed in 133 MS cases and 11 healthy controls (HC). Clinical assessment included expanded disability status scale (EDSS), MS functional composite (MSFC), quantitative hip‐flexion strength (“strength”), and vibration sensation threshold (“vibration”). SCV between C3 and C4 was measured and normalized individually by subject height, SC‐length, and intracranial volume (ICV).

RESULTS

There were group differences in raw‐SCV and after normalization by height and length (MS vs. HC; progressive vs. relapsing MS‐subtypes, P < .05). There were correlations between clinical measures and raw‐SCV (EDSS:r = –.20; MSFC:r = .16; strength:r = .35; vibration:r = –.19). Correlations consistently strengthened with normalization by length (EDSS:r = –.43; MSFC:r = .33; strength:r = .38; vibration:r = –.40), and height (EDSS:r = –.26; MSFC:r = .28; strength:r = .22; vibration:r = –.29), but diminished with normalization by ICV (EDSS:r = –.23; MSFC:r = –.10; strength:r = .23; vibration:r = –.35). In relapsing MS, normalization by length allowed statistical detection of correlations that were not apparent with raw‐SCV.

CONCLUSIONS

SCV‐normalization by length improves the ability to detect group differences, strengthens clinical–radiological correlations, and is particularly relevant in settings of subtle disease‐related SC‐atrophy in MS. SCV‐normalization by length may enhance the clinical utility of measures of SC‐atrophy.
Thrombosed Dural Sinus Malformation in a Fetus: A Case Report
Authors: Asai Hiroko , Okamoto Toshio , Tsuchida Etsushi , Nohara Fumikatsu , Nagaya Ken , Azuma Hiroshi
Published: March 2014

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

A thrombosed dural sinus malformation (DSM) is a rare condition, the clinical features of which have not yet been completely characterized. Here, we describe the clinical course of a patient with a thrombosed DSM and discuss the outcomes in live birth cases from a review of the literature.

CASE DESCRIPTION

An ultrasonography examination of a 32‐year‐old woman at 25 weeks’ gestation indicated a fetal posterior fossa mass. The size of the intracranial mass remained constant during the second trimester and was observed to decrease from 33 weeks of gestation. A postnatal diagnosis of thrombosis in the dural sinus was established by magnetic resonance imaging and venography. No brain damage or hydrocephalus was noted. Although the circumference of the infant's head was enlarged at birth, her neurological outcome was normal at 1 year of age.

CONCLUSIONS

Although normal cranial circumference is reportedly an essential factor for a favorable prognosis, the patient in this report with a cranial circumference at + 2.0 SD (35.6 cm) had a favorable prognosis. Further studies focused on improving clinical diagnostic accuracy in this rare entity will facilitate appropriate counseling.
Neonatal Head Ultrasonography Today: A Powerful Imaging Tool!
Authors: Orman Gunes , Benson Jane E. , Kweldam Charlotte F. , Bosemani Thangamadhan , Tekes Aylin , de Jong M. Robert , Seyfert Donna , Northington Frances J. , Poretti Andrea , Huisman Thierry A. G. M.
Published: March 2014

Head ultrasonography (HUS) remains an important tool in the initial evaluation of intracranial abnormalities in infants. In experienced hands, HUS is an outstanding tool to detect brain abnormalities in preterm and full‐term infants, to follow the progression of these lesions, and to describe the maturation of the infant brain. We believe it is a safe and cost‐efficient alternative to magnetic resonance imaging and computerized tomography in many cases. In this article we discuss the HUS techniques that are currently available and are now the standard of care, how to perform them, and what to look for. We describe a variety of findings that may be encountered including hemorrhagic complications of prematurity, hypoxic ischemic brain injury, neonatal stroke, infections, malformations, neoplasms, and a few more rare neonatal pathologies.
Defining Perceptions of Picky Eating Obtained through Focus Groups and Conjoint Analysis
Authors: Boquin Mandy M. , Moskowitz Howard R. , Donovan Sharon M. , Lee Soo‐Yeun
Published: March 2014

Picky eating is a challenging mealtime behavior prevalent during the toddler years. An operational definition of picky eating does not exist in the scientific literature, which makes it difficult to consistently quantify the degree of picky eating. Yet, those who talk about picky eating, especially mothers, “know it when they see it, or when it is described.” This study used focus groups and conjoint analysis in a novel approach to investigate the perceptions of picky eating.

Four categories were developed from three focus groups (N = 19): “before mealtime behaviors,” “during mealtime behaviors,” “general mealtime preferences” and “food sensory‐dependent preferences.” The focus groups were followed by a conjoint analysis study which revealed four segments: “The Sensory Dependent” (n = 72), “The General Perfectionists” (n = 159), “The Behavioral Responders” (n = 54) and “The Preferential Eaters” (n = 74). The segments differed in the specific elements driving the description of a child considered a picky eater. The study develops a classification method to define picky eaters, and suggests innovative interventions for each of the four segments of picky eating.

Practical Applications

The findings from this study demonstrate that picky eating is neither defined nor experienced in the same way by every parent. Parents believe that picky eating is not only defined by the food the child eats, but also by the child's overall behaviors and attitudes toward mealtime. The participants of the focus group study provided unique detailed experiences and perceptions that may not be captured by quantitative surveys or food diary assessments. The information from combined focus group and conjoint analysis in this study categorize characteristics of picky eating and define and segment how people perceive picky eaters. Results can be further used for novel approaches to remedy mealtime difficulties resulting from picky eating behaviors.
Targeting Health Improvement via a Nutritional Intervention Program for Adults With Developmental Disabilities and Challenging Behaviors
Authors: Edwards Meaghan , Holder Michael , Baum Nehama , Brown Roy
Published: March 2014

Research suggests that individuals with developmental disabilities and challenging behaviors resulting from complex impairments tend to experience poor health status linked to lifestyle factors (including inadequate diet and poor nutrition). Individuals living in group home settings seem to be especially vulnerable, as they may often be provided with meals that may not be nutritionally adequate. This article describes how the need for a nutritional intervention program for group home staff was determined, the nature of the program itself, and the impact of the program upon meal composition and on staff and residents. Subjects were supervisors and group home staff members responsible for providing meals in four group homes to 21 residents. The program consisted of two training sessions for staff and follow‐up monitoring through daily photographing of meals, weekly communications with staff, and monthly measuring of the body mass of group home residents. The program was assessed through a time series evaluation of photograph ratings measuring meal composition. Results indicated that meal nutrition and composition improved significantly over the duration of the nutrition intervention program. The authors conclude that a meal enhancement model may be effective in improving meal nutritional compositions in group home and other community‐based settings, thus providing opportunities for improved health status.
Comparison of manual and laboratory PCV and total protein using EDTA and lithium heparin canine samples
Authors: Tamborini A. , Papakonstantinou S. , Brown A. , Brennan S. , Shiel R. E. , Mills J. N. , Mooney C. T.
Published: March 2014

Objectives

To evaluate if lithium heparin (LiH) and potassium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) can be used interchangeably to obtain packed cell volume (PCV) and total protein by refractometry (TPr), and to compare those values with laboratorywderived haematocrit (Hct) and total protein (TP) concentration, respectively, in canine blood samples.

Methods

Blood samples taken in LiH and EDTA were manually assessed for PCV and TPr. Results were correlated to Hct and TP.

Results

238 EDTA and corresponding serum/LiH samples were obtained. There was excellent correlation but statistically significant difference between LiH and EDTA PCV (n=43). LiH and EDTA TPr (n=43) were excellently correlated without significant difference. PCV and Hct (n=176) were excellently correlated without significant difference. LiH (n=105) and serum (n=133) TP was respectively fairly or well correlated with TPr but with significant differences. An increase in cholesterol of 1 mmol/L was associated with a mean independent increase in TPr of approximately 1 g/L.

Clinical Significance

LiH and EDTA can be used interchangeably for TPr. Although TPr and serum/plasma TP were correlated, there were statistically significant differences that could impact on clinical decision making. TPr is increased by cholesterol but this alone could not account for the magnitude of the difference observed.
Androgen Receptor Gene CAG Repeat Polymorphism Independently Influences Recovery of Male Sexual Function After Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Postsurgical Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism
Authors: Tirabassi Giacomo , delli Muti Nicola , Corona Giovanni , Maggi Mario , Balercia Giancarlo
Published: March 2014

Introduction

Few and contradictory studies have evaluated the possible influence of androgen receptor (AR) gene CAG repeat polymorphism on male sexual function.

Aim

In this study we evaluated the role of AR gene CAG repeat polymorphism in the recovery of sexual function after testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in men affected by postsurgical hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, a condition which is often associated with hypopituitarism and in which the sexual benefits of TRT must be distinguished from those of pituitary-function replacement therapies.

Methods

Fifteen men affected by postsurgical hypogonadotropic hypogonadism were retrospectively assessed before and after TRT.

Main Outcome Measures

Main outcome measures included sexual parameters as assessed by the International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire, levels of pituitary dependent hormones (total testosterone, free T3, free T4, cortisol, insulin-like growth factor-1 [IGF-1], prolactin), and results of genetic analysis (ARgene CAG repeat number).

Results

Plasma concentrations of free T3, free T4, cortisol, and prolactin did not vary significantly between the two phases, while testosterone and IGF-1 increased significantly after TRT. A significant improvement in all sexual parameters studied was found. The number of CAG triplets was negatively and significantly correlated with changes in all the sexual parameters, while opposite correlations were found between changes in sexual parameters and changes in testosterone levels; no correlation of change in IGF1 with change in sexual parameters was reported. On multiple linear regression analysis, after correction for changes in testosterone, nearly all the associations between the number of CAG triplets and changes in sexual parameters were confirmed.

Conclusions

Shorter lengthARgene CAG repeat number is associated with the recovery of sexual function after TRT in postsurgical male hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, independently of the effects of concomitant pituitary-replacement therapies.
Degenerative Left Shift as a Prognostic Tool in Cats
Authors: Burton A.G. , Harris L.A. , Owens S.D. , Jandrey K.E.
Published: March 2014

Background

A degenerative left shift (DLS) is reported to be a poor prognostic indicator in dogs and cats. Limited data in dogs and no studies in cats have been published to investigate this claim.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To characterize the feline population affected by DLS and to determine if the presence and severity of DLS are associated with increased risk of euthanasia or death.

Animals

One hundred and eight cats with DLS (cases) and 322 cats without DLS (controls) presented to the University of California, Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital between April 1, 1995 and April 1, 2010.

Methods

Retrospective case–control study. All cases had a CBC performed within 24 hours of presentation in which immature granulocytic precursors exceeded mature neutrophils. Controls were matched by year of presentation and primary diagnosis. Survival analysis was used to determine risk of death or euthanasia from DLS and other potential predictors of outcome.

Results

Cases were more likely to die or be euthanized in hospital compared to controls (60/108 [56%] versus 107/322 [33%]). DLS was a significant predictor of death or euthanasia in hospitalized cats in both univariate and multivariate analysis (hazard ratio, 1.57; 95% confidence interval, 1.13–2.18). Trend analysis showed an increasing trend in the hazard of euthanasia or death with increasing severity of DLS.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Cats with DLS are 1.57 times more likely to die or be euthanized in hospital than cats without DLS. In addition, increasing severity of DLS is associated with increased likelihood of death or euthanasia.
Introducing wood anatomical and dendrochronological aspects of herbaceous plants: applications of the Xylem Database to vegetation science
Authors: Büntgen Ulf , Psomas Achilleas , Schweingruber Fritz H.
Published: March 2014

Objectives

Although more than half of the Earth's landmass is covered by non‐forest vegetation and forests only account for ca. 20%, the majority of wood anatomical and dendrochronological studies still centre on trees and their timber products of secondary meristem growth. Comprehensive assessments of the anatomy, taxonomy, physiology and dendrochronology of herbs are, however, still missing. We therefore aim to evaluate the importance of stem anatomical and dendrochronological aspects of herbaceous plants for vegetation science, and further intend to explore if species‐specific differences in xylem anatomy can be linked with patterns of life form, plant size and site ecology.

Locations

Numerous extra‐tropical sites within six biogeographic regions on six continents, spanning an elevational gradient of 4400 m from sea level to the alpine zone.

Methods

We employ the Xylem Database to investigate well‐established and newly defined wood anatomical and dendrochronological traits in 3347 dicotyledonous tree, shrub and herb species from 140 families and 952 genera. The obtained site information is placed in a global context of vegetation cover.

Results

We demonstrate that plants included in the Xylem Database broadly represent the diversity of growth forms, habitats and life histories of extra‐tropical dicots, thus validating its potential for a range of uses within vegetation science. An unexpectedly rich catalogue of xylem anatomical and dendrochronological features is found in the stems of almost all dwarf shrub and herb species, with the quantity and diversity of their characteristics being comparable to larger plants, including most tree species. Annual rings are formed independently of life form, plant size and site ecology. Secondary growth, which is an expression of plant age, defines the main principle of terrestrial angiosperm development.

Conclusions

Based on a first assessment of the Xylem Database, we suggest merging the traditionally separated research communities of wood anatomy and dendrochronology (including dendroclimatology and ‐ecology), as well as expanding their joint application to all non‐forest, extra‐tropical vegetation types. Moreover, we recommend overcoming the theoretical life form separation of trees, shrubs and herbs. This conceptual advancement will likely provide annually resolved insight on the past dynamics of dry matter production and carbon allocation for many marginal vegetation zones beyond the geographic limits of forest growth, which are particularly vulnerable to environmental change. Our study may further stimulate timely efforts in comparing plant morphological and wood anatomical characteristics with phylogenetic reconstructions.
A Wavelet‐Based Adaptive Pole Assignment Method for Structural Control
Authors: Amini Fereidoun , Samani Masoud Zabihi
Published: March 2014

This article presents a time varying wavelet‐based pole assignment (WPA) method to control seismic vibrations in multi‐degree of freedom (MDOF) structural systems. The discrete wavelet transform is used to determine the energy content over the frequency band of the response in real time. The frequency content was implemented in the Big Bang–Big Crunch algorithm to update the optimum values of the closed‐loop poles of the structural system adaptively. To calculate optimum gain matrix, a robust pole placement algorithm was used. The gain matrix is calculated online based on response characteristic in real time and must not be calculated a priori (offline) choice. The WPA is tested on a 10‐story structural system subject to several historical ground motions. It is observed that the WPA has advantages in some design problems. Numerical examples illustrate that the proposed approach reduces the displacement response of the structure in real time more than conventional linear quadratic regulator (LQR) controller.
Concurrent Construction Scheduling Simulation Algorithm
Authors: Lim Tae‐Kyung , Yi Chang‐Yong , Lee Dong‐Eun , Arditi David
Published: March 2014

A scheduler can accelerate a construction project by setting up overlapping activities. Activities are said to be overlapping if two activities that are normally executed in sequence are performed in parallel, the successor starting before the end of the predecessor. This article presents a novel method that identifies an optimal overlap rate between critical activities to provide a time‐cost trade‐off analysis, hence reducing completion time and cost without allocating additional resources. This method is then coded into Concurrent Construction Scheduling Simulation System (C2S2) that makes use of schedule data exported from Primavera Project Planner (P6), integrates the activities’ concurrency attributes, calculates the rework probability/amount, and computes the variability in project completion time and cost by adjusting the overlap between activities. This study is of value to practitioners because C2S2 allows establishing a compressed schedule that satisfies a limited budget within a specified contract duration. The study is also of relevance to researchers because it identifies the optimal overlaps between activities expeditiously. Two test cases verify the usability and validity of the computational methods implemented in the system.