bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microwaves and tea: new tools to process plant tissue for transmission electron microscopy
Authors: CARPENTIER ANAÏS , ABREU SUSANA , TRICHET MICHAEL , SATIAT‐JEUNEMAITRE BÉATRICE
Published: June 2012

Optimizing sample processing, reducing the duration of the preparation of specimen, and adjusting procedures to adhere to new health and safety regulations, are the current challenges of plant electron microscopists. To address these issues, plant processing protocols for TEM, combining the use of polyphenolic compounds as substitute for uranyl acetate with microwave technology are being developed. In the present work, we optimized microwave‐assisted processing of different types of plant tissue for ultrastuctural and immunocytochemical studies. We also explored Oolong tea extract as alternative for uranyl acetate for the staining of plant samples. We obtained excellent preservation of cell ultrastructure when samples were embedded in epoxy resin, and of cell antigenicity, when embedded in LR‐White resin. Furthermore, Oolong tea extract successfully replaced uranyl acetate as a counterstain on ultrathin sections, and forin blockstaining. These novel protocols reduce the time spent at the bench, and improve safety conditions for the investigator. The preservation of the cell components when following these approaches is of high quality. Altogether, they offer significant simplification of the procedures required for electron microscopy of plant ultrastructure.
On the fast lane: mitochondria structure, dynamics and function in growing pollen tubes
Authors: COLAÇO R. , MORENO N. , FEIJÓ J.A.
Published: June 2012

The structure, distribution and possible roles of mitochondria in growing pollen tubes is reviewed. Diverse microscopical methods have been applied to the analysis of mitochondria in pollen, with a predominance in recent years on vital fluorescent probes. We review the application of different dyes to pollen tubes, with a special emphasis on the ratiometric dye JC‐1. Morphometric data shows a concentration of mitochondria in the subapical area of pollen tubes, apparently with more frequency of mitochondria with membrane depolarization when compared with the rest of the tube. Remarkably, data from various species and from transcriptomics indicates that different species may have different respiratory adaptations, ranging from high oxygen consumption in the early steps of germination, to energy production and growth on almost anoxic conditions. Various studies also showed that the pollen of many species is refractory to some common respiration inhibitors, including the ones from the alternative pathway. Given the conspicuous distribution and apparent subapical accumulation of mitochondria, we speculate on their functional relationship with known apical ion gradients that seem to characterize pollen tubes.
Responses of Amblyomma americanum and Dermacentor variabilis to odorants that attract haematophagous insects
Authors: CARR A. L. , ROE R. M. , ARELLANO C. , SONENSHINE D. E. , SCHAL C. , APPERSON C. S.
Published: June 2012

Carbon dioxide (CO2), 1‐octen‐3‐ol, acetone, ammonium hydroxide, L‐lactic‐acid, dimethyl trisulphide and isobutyric acid were tested as attractants for two tick species, Amblyomma americanum and Dermacentor variabilis (Acari: Ixodidae), in dose–response bioassays using Y‐tube olfactometers. Only CO2, acetone, 1‐octen‐3‐ol and ammonium hydroxide elicited significant preferences from adult A. americanum, and only CO2 was attractive to adult D. variabilis. Acetone, 1‐octen‐3‐ol and ammonium hydroxide were separately evaluated at three doses against CO2 (from dry ice) at a field site supporting a natural population of A. americanum nymphs and adults. Carbon dioxide consistently attracted the highest number of host‐seeking ticks. However, for the first time, acetone, 1‐octen‐3‐ol and ammonium hydroxide were shown to attract high numbers of A. americanum. Further research is needed to determine the utility of these semiochemicals as attractants in tick surveillance and area‐wide management programmes.
Tianeptine vs amitriptyline for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea: a multicenter, open‐label, non‐inferiority, randomized controlled study
Authors: Sohn W. , Lee O. Y. , Kwon J. G. , Park K. S. , Lim Y. J. , Kim T. H. , Jung S. W. , Kim J. I.
Published: June 2012

Background  Tricyclic antidepressants have good efficacy in irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS‐D), but their clinical use is limited by considerations of tolerability. Tianeptine, another antidepressant, acts as a selective serotonin reuptake enhancer. We compared tianeptine with amitriptyline for the treatment of patients with IBS‐D.

Methods  We undertook a multicenter, randomized, open‐label, non‐inferiority clinical study that compared tianeptine with amitriptyline, each in combination with probiotics, for the treatment of IBS‐D. Subjects were randomized to receive tianeptine (37.5 mg)/probiotics (Bacillus subtilis + Streptococcus faecium) or amitriptyline (10 mg)/probiotics (Bacillus subtilis + Streptococcus faecium) for 4 weeks. A total of 228 patients were analyzed by the intention‐to‐treat approach. The primary efficacy endpoint was the proportion of patients who had global relief of IBS symptoms at week 4. The secondary efficacy endpoints were intensity of abdominal pain/discomfort, stool frequency/consistency, quality of life, and overall satisfaction with treatment.

Key Results  At week 4, non‐inferiority of the tianeptine group to the amitriptyline group (treatment difference −15.1%; 95% CI −26.6% to −3.8%) was shown, with 81.1% (99 of 122 patients) of the patients in the tianeptine group and 66.0% (70 of 106 patients) in the amitriptyline group reporting global relief of IBS symptoms. The secondary endpoints also demonstrated non‐inferiority of the tianeptine group to the amitriptyline group. Adverse events such as dry mouth and constipation were significantly lower in the tianeptine group than the amitriptyline group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions & Inferences  Tianeptine is not inferior to amitriptyline for treating IBS‐D in terms of both efficacy and tolerability.
Does selection on increased cold tolerance in the adult stage confer resistance throughout development?
Authors: DIERKS A. , KÖLZOW N. , FRANKE K. , FISCHER K.
Published: June 2012

Artificial selection is a powerful approach to unravel constraints on genetic adaptation. Although it has been frequently used to reveal genetic trade‐offs among different fitness‐related traits, only a few studies have targeted genetic correlations across developmental stages. Here, we test whether selection on increased cold tolerance in the adult stage increases cold resistance throughout ontogeny in the butterfly Bicyclus anynana. We used lines selected for decreased chill‐coma recovery time and corresponding controls, which had originally been set up from three levels of inbreeding (outbred control, one or two full‐sib matings). Four generations after having terminated selection, a response to selection was found in 1‐day‐old butterflies (the age at which selection took place). Older adults showed a very similar although weaker response. Nevertheless, cold resistance did not increase in either egg, larval or pupal stage in the selection lines but was even lower compared to control lines for eggs and young larvae. These findings suggest a cost of increased adult cold tolerance, presumably reducing resource availability for offspring provisioning and thereby stress tolerance during development, which may substantially affect evolutionary trajectories.
Drought and air warming affects abundance and exoenzyme profiles of Cenococcum geophilum associated with Quercus robur, Q. petraea and Q. pubescens
Authors: Herzog C. , Peter M. , Pritsch K. , Günthardt‐Goerg M. S. , Egli S.
Published: June 2012

The present study aimed to elucidate the influence of drought and elevated temperature on relative abundance and functioning of the ectomycorrhizal fungus Cenococcum geophilum on three oak species differing in adaptation to a warm and dry climate. The experiment QUERCO comprised three Quercus species (Q. robur, Q. petraea, Q. pubescens) grown for 3 years under four treatments: elevated air temperature, drought, a combination of the two, and control. Fine root samples were analysed for relative abundance and potential extracellular enzyme activities of ectomycorrhizae of C. geophilum, a fungal species known to be drought resistant. The relative abundance of C. geophilum on the roots of the oak species was significantly increased by temperature, decreased by drought, but unchanged in the combined treatment compared to the control. Although the extent of treatment effects differed among oak species, no significant influence of tree species on relative abundance of C. geophilum was detected. Exoenzyme activities of C. geophilum on Q. robur and Q. petraea (but not Q. pubescens) significantly increased in the combined treatment, but for all oak species were reduced under drought and air warming alone compared to the control. There was a significant negative correlation between abundance of C. geophilum and its leucine aminopeptidase activity. As this enzyme is not frequent among ectomycorrhizal fungi, this emphasises the functional importance of C. geophilum in the ectomycorrhizal community. Our results indicate that increased temperature and drought will influence the relative abundance and enzyme activity of C. geophilum. However, both the Quercus species and C. geophilum tolerated warming and strong drought.
A Proper Assessment of Boar Sperm Function May Not Only Require Conventional Analyses but Also Others Focused on Molecular Markers of Epididymal Maturation
Authors: Bonet S , Briz MD , Yeste M
Published: June 2012

Contents

In swine, predicting the fertilizing ability of boar ejaculates before using seminal doses for artificial insemination purposes is very important for pork breeders. Routinely, semen quality is evaluated by means of sperm concentration, viability, motility and morphology. However, in some cases, these spermiogram parameters may not be precise enough to detect altered/non‐functional spermatozoa within boar ejaculates that may yield lower reproductive performance. The present work reviews the conventional parameters most used for assessing porcine semen quality, and it also describes other markers recently found that may help for evaluating more accurately the boar sperm function and survival. These markers are related to alterations induced by defective spermatogenesis, epididymal maturation or sperm handling.
Ultrasonography for Monitoring Reproductive Function in the Bull
Authors: Kastelic JP , Brito LFC
Published: June 2012

Contents

Diagnostic ultrasonography has been widely used for examination of the reproductive tract of female cattle, but more sparingly in bulls. Typical clinical ultrasonographic examinations of bull testes are unlikely to affect semen quality or sperm production. The ultrasonographic anatomy of bull testes and accessory sex glands has been reported. Although testicular echogenicity increased (i.e. the parenchyma appeared more white) as a bull approached puberty, echogenicity was not superior to scrotal circumference as a predictor of puberty. Ultrasonography can be used to detect and characterize testicular pathology. It is noteworthy that areas of increased echogenicity (testicular fibrosis) are common, especially in young bulls, but are not associated with decreased semen quality (e.g. percentage of morphologically abnormal sperm). Neither visual evaluation nor computerized pixel analysis of testicular ultrasonic echotexture was consistently predictive of semen quality in bulls. Therefore, we concluded that the primary clinical use of ultrasonography in assessment of reproductive function in the bull is characterization of grossly detectable lesions in the testes and scrotum.
Retrospective Analysis of Canine Semen Evaluations with Special Emphasis on the use of the Hypoosmotic Swelling (HOS) Test and Acrosomal Evaluation Using Spermac®
Authors: Goericke‐Pesch S , Failing K
Published: June 2012

Contents

Routine semen evaluation includes volume, motility, vital staining for live‐dead ratio and pathomorphology including Spermac® staining for evaluation of the acrosome. In recent years, depending on the species, also the hypoosmotic swelling (HOS) test has been applied routinely for evaluation of semen quality. In this respect, a significant correlation between the ability of spermatozoa to swell in HOS test and the fertilizing ability has been reported. Also for evaluation of dog semen, reference has been made to the HOS test; however, its correlation to conventional semen parameters so far is discussed controversially. In the present study, the results of 400 semen examinations from stud dogs presented at our clinic were evaluated for their correlations between conventional semen parameters (motility, live/dead ratio, pathomorphology), conventional semen parameters and age, Spermac® staining and HOS test, respectively. We found a significant correlation of age and sperm concentration (p < 0.01), total sperm count (p < 0.0001), percentage of progressively motile sperm (p < 0.01) and live spermatozoa (p = 0.012). Furthermore, several correlations between conventional semen parameters were identified. Percentage of sperm with normal acrosome identified by Spermac ® staining correlated significantly with live spermatozoa (p < 0.0001) and percentage of progressively motile sperm (p < 0.01). A significant correlation was proven between curled tails in HOS test and age (p < 0.001), motility (p < 0.0001), live sperm (p < 0.0001), acrosomal status (p < 0.05), pathomorphology (p < 0.0001) and sperm concentration (p = 0.011). These results indicate that Spermac® staining and the HOS test are useful in improving canine semen analysis.
Bottom‐up control in the benthos of ocean‐exposed sandy beaches?
Authors: SCHLACHER THOMAS A. , HARTWIG JENNIFER
Published: June 2012

Bottom‐up control is a fundamental structuring force in food webs. Food webs of ocean‐exposed sandy beaches are predicted to be bottom‐up controlled systems, underpinned by imported organic matter rather than in situ primary production. This ecological model of resource‐based regulation of biological assemblages is juxtaposed against a prevailing paradigm built around a dominance of physical drivers in sandy beach ecosystems. Surprisingly, given the apparently ubiquitous energetic subsidies of beach food webs, the central premise of bottom‐up control has not been tested. Here we experimentally manipulated in situ nutrient levels on a sandy beach to test food web responses at the levels of primary producers (benthic microalgae) and their grazers (meiofauna). The meiofauna community as a whole appeared most strongly influenced by the local physical environment, particularly changes in sediment grain size – this supports the traditional ‘environmental control paradigm’. We also detected a significant, positive response of two consumer groups of the meiofauna (nematodes, ostracods) to nutrient enrichment that supports a model of biological, bottom‐up control. Although the predicted response of elevated producer biomass following nutrient enrichment was not detected, intense grazing pressure on new, stimulated production may have masked positive responses by the primary producers. Multichannel regulation of food webs is likely for many exposed sandy beaches, albeit an often lower importance of in situ bottom‐up forces compared with stronger environmental control.
Invasive wasps, not birds, dominate in a temperate honeydew system
Authors: GARDNER‐GEE ROBIN , BEGGS JACQUELINE R.
Published: June 2012

The Avian Convergence Hypothesis states that avian–honeydew associations are likely to develop when biogeographic and/or climatic factors limit the formation of ant–honeydew associations (the dominant association in tropical ecosystems). In this study we examine a honeydew‐influenced forest system in an island archipelago where ant diversity is low but invasive Vespula wasp species (Vespidae) are present. We found honeydew production was highly seasonal, with both standing crop and 24‐h production peaking in summer. When Vespula wasps were abundant (summer and autumn) they preferentially visited infested trees and fed regularly on honeydew droplets on infested branches. Two ant species occasionally fed on honeydew. No other insects or birds were observed feeding on honeydew during the study period. With the exception of Vespula, honeydew does not appear to be a preferred food source in this community, possibly because of the range of other food resources available in surrounding forest, farmland and gardens. The abundance of Vespula wasps at the site may also have disrupted bird–honeydew associations. We suggest the Avian Convergence Hypothesis could be restated to explicitly include both nectar availability and invasive social insects as both are likely to influence bird use of honeydew.
Factors associated with life‐space in older adults with amnestic mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Uemura Kazuki , Shimada Hiroyuki , Makizako Hyuma , Yoshida Daisuke , Doi Takehiko , Yamada Minoru , Suzuki Takao
Published: June 2012

Aim:  Restriction of life‐space is associated with physical performance and functional decline in older adults. Little is known about the factors associated with life‐space in older adults with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI). The purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with life‐space in older adults with aMCI.

Methods:  The study participants were 69 older adults (mean age 74.5 years, males 56.5%) who were identified with aMCI. Life‐space mobility was measured using a Japanese translation of the life‐space assessment (LSA). Age, sex, cognitive function (general function, executive function and processing speed), physical performance, instrumental activities of daily living status (IADL) and fear of falling (FoF) were measured as potential relevant factors.

Results:  Univariate analysis showed that the LSA was associated with FoF, sex, physical performance, processing speed and IADL. In the stepwise regression analysis, FoF, processing speed and IADL maintained a significant association with the LSA scores, although sex and physical performance did not reach significance.

Conclusion:  The results suggest that the restrictions of life‐space in older adults with aMCI were more affected by the FoF, slower processing speed and restricted IADL than sex or physical performance. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2013; 13: 161–166.
Tai chi and reduction of depressive symptoms for older adults: A meta‐analysis of randomized trials
Authors: Chi Iris , Jordan‐Marsh Maryalice , Guo Man , Xie Bin , Bai Zhenggang
Published: June 2012

The aim of the present article was to systematically review the effectiveness of tai chi for reducing depressive symptoms among older adults. Electronic databases were searched through January 2011. Reference lists of systematic reviews and identified studies from the search strategy were also screened. Randomized controlled trials of tai chi compared with waiting list controls in older adults with depressive symptoms measured by a self‐report depression rating scale were included. Two authors independently identified eligible studies, extracted data and assessed the included studies for risk of bias. Estimates of depressive symptoms reduction used a random effects model, and the I2 statistic was applied to examine heterogeneity. Four trials with a total of 253 participants met the inclusion criteria. Two studies were assessed as being of high quality; the remaining two studies were rated as moderate quality. All four studies compared tai chi with a waiting list control group. The pooled standard mean difference for these studies was −0.27 (95% CI −0.52 to −0.02, P = 0.03). Tai chi appeared to have a significant impact on reducing depressive symptoms compared with the waiting list control groups. Further research is recommended with larger sample sizes, more clarity on trial design and the intervention, longer‐term follow up, and concomitant economic evaluations. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2013; 13: 3–12.
ADEQUATE TRUST AVAILS, MISTAKEN TRUST MATTERS: ON THE MORAL RESPONSIBILITY OF DOCTORS AS PROXIES FOR PATIENTS' TRUST IN BIOBANK RESEARCH
Authors: JOHNSSON LINUS , HELGESSON GERT , HANSSON MATS G. , ERIKSSON STEFAN
Published: June 2012

In Sweden, most patients are recruited into biobank research by non‐researcher doctors. Patients' trust in doctors may therefore be important to their willingness to participate. We suggest a model of trust that makes sense of such transitions of trust between domains and distinguishes adequate trust from mistaken trust. The unique position of doctors implies, we argue, a Kantian imperfect duty to compensate for patients' mistaken trust. There are at least three kinds of mistaken trust, each of which requires a different set of countermeasures. First, trust is mistaken when necessary competence is lacking; the competence must be developed or the illusion dispelled. Second, trust is irrational whenever the patient is mistaken about his actual reasons for trusting. Care must therefore be taken to support the patient's reasoning and moral agency. Third, some patients inappropriately trust doctors to recommend only research that will benefit them directly. Such trust should be counteracted by nurturing a culture where patients expect to be asked occasionally to contribute to the common good.
Are Phase 1 Trials Therapeutic? Risk, Ethics, and Division of Labor
Authors: Anderson James A. , Kimmelman Jonathan
Published: June 2012

Despite their crucial role in the translation of pre‐clinical research into new clinical applications, phase 1 trials involving patients continue to prompt ethical debate. At the heart of the controversy is the question of whether risks of administering experimental drugs are therapeutically justified. We suggest that prior attempts to address this question have been muddled, in part because it cannot be answered adequately without first attending to the way labor is divided in managing risk in clinical trials. In what follows, we approach the question of therapeutic justification for phase 1 trials from the viewpoint of five different stakeholders: the drug regulatory authority, the IRB, the clinical investigator, the referring physician, and the patient. Our analysis shows that the question of therapeutic justification actually raises multiple questions corresponding to the roles and responsibilities of the different stakeholders involved. By attending to these contextual differences, we provide more coherent guidance for the ethical negotiation of risk in phase 1 trials involving patients. We close by discussing the implications of our argument for various perennial controversies in phase 1 trial practice.
Elevated cerebrospinal fluid neurofilament light levels in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a possible marker of disease severity and progression
Authors: Tortelli R. , Ruggieri M. , Cortese R. , D'Errico E. , Capozzo R. , Leo A. , Mastrapasqua M. , Zoccolella S. , Leante R. , Livrea P. , Logroscino G. , Simone I. L.
Published: June 2012

Background

To date there are no biomarkers with proven reliability as a measure of disease burden in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The aim of our study is to assess the neurofilament light chain (NFL) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples as a measure of disease activity and progression in ALS.

Methods

Thirty‐seven consecutive patients with ALS, 25 with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy and 21 with other neurodegenerative diseases were evaluated. CSF NFL levels were assayed by two‐site solid‐phase sandwich ELISA. In patients with ALS, neurological status was assessed by the revised ALS Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS‐r) and the Medical Research Council scale, and the progression of the disease was evaluated using the ‘diagnostic delay’ and the ‘progression rate’.

Results

Cerebrospinal fluid NFL levels were higher in ALS cases than in controls (P < 0.0001). Using receiver operating curve analysis, an optimal NFL cut‐off of 1981 ng/l discriminated between patients with ALS and neurological controls, with a sensitivity of 78.4% and specificity of 72.5%. Multivariate logistic regression confirmed the association between CSF NFL levels and the presence of ALS (age and sex adjusted odds ratio for ALS 8.9; 95% CI 3.1–25.8; P < 0.0001). In ALS, CSF NFL negatively correlated with the diagnostic delay (P < 0.0001) and the ALSFRS‐r (P = 0.014) and positively with the progression rate (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

High CSF NFL levels were found in patients with ALS, reflecting the burden of neurodegeneration. The significant relation between CSF NFL levels and disease progression suggests that NFL may be a useful marker of disease activity and progression in ALS.
Synchronized versus asynchronized breeding in cordylid lizards: an evolutionary perspective
Authors: Mouton P. le Fras N. , Flemming A. F. , Stanley E.
Published: June 2012

The lizard family Cordylidae is mainly endemic to southern Africa and comprises 80 named taxa, placed in 10 genera. We mapped parity mode and the timing of gametogenesis in males and females on a genus‐level phylogenetic tree for the family, derived from the literature. For those genera for which reproduction data were not available, we investigated male reproductive activity for representative species using museum material. In addition, we constructed an area cladogram to recover ancestral ranges. Our parsimony analysis retrieved two equally parsimonious solutions for evolutionary transformations in parity mode and reproductive timing in the Cordylidae. Both solutions suggest that oviparity and spring gametogenesis in both males and females (synchronized breeding) is the basal condition in the family. The correlated evolution of viviparity and autumn breeding has been noted in many lizard clades, and we therefore prefer the solution suggesting (1) that the transformations from oviparity to viviparity and from spring to autumn gametogenesis occurred simultaneously in the most recent common ancestor of the Cordylinae, and (2) that a subsequent return to spring spermatogenesis occurred in the most recent common ancestor of the Ouroborus‐Karusasaurus‐Namazonurus‐Hemicordylus‐Cordylus clade, a distinctly western clade. The evolution of viviparity and autumn spermatogenesis in the most recent common ancestor of the Cordylinae appears to have been correlated with the onset of cooler climates during the Oligocene while the return to spring spermatogenesis appears to be have been correlated with the aridification of the western parts of southern Africa during the early Miocene.
New case of true mimicry in cockroaches (Blattodea)
Authors: Schmied Heiko , Lambertz Markus , Geissler Peter
Published: June 2012

True mimicry is an extremely rare phenomenon in cockroaches, with beetles as their favorite models. So far, only very few Pseudophyllodromiinae could be identified that conform to all requirements for Batesian mimicry and similarly exist only isolated reports on Müllerian mimicry. The vast majority, however, of the so‐called beetle‐mimicking cockroaches only shows a high degree of generalized convergence regarding their outer appearance. Specific models or counterparts, respectively, are lacking. Here we report on a last instar nymph of an undescribed Blattinae (Blattodea: Blattidae) that accurately mimics a truly harmful, sympatric carabid beetle. Although no indications for inedibility of this cockroach became evident, thus making Batesian mimicry likely, Müllerian mimicry can not be excluded with certainty. At any rate, this represents both the first case of mimicry in Blattidae and the first case with a ground beetle (Carabidae) as model for a cockroach mimic.
Seasonal fluctuations, spatial distribution and natural enemies of Asian citrus psyllid Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Psyllidae) in Iran
Authors: Rakhshani Ehsan , Saeedifar Abdolhvahid
Published: June 2012

Population dynamics of the Asian citrus psyllid Diaphorina citri Kuwayama was studied in two‐week intervals throughout the season on lemon in a citrus orchard in Southern Baluchistan, Iran. Population peaks were observed in March, April and September 2007 to January 2008. Population levels were positively related to the availability of new shoot flushes, which were in turn related to the weekly minimum temperature. Also, the nymph population peaks were observed in three periods (beginning of March, end of August and end of January). Results indicated that moderate climatic conditions coupled with the flushing of citrus trees are two main factors for an increase of the development and activity of nymphs resulting in pest population increase, while extremes of both high and low temperatures, low relative humidity and high rainfall were detrimental. Four coccinellids (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), one syrphid (Diptera: Syrphidae), two parasitoids (Hymenoptera) and two spiders (Araneae) were determined as natural enemies of the psyllid in the studied area.
Increased Length of Stay and Costs Associated with Inpatient Management of Vascular Access Failures
Authors: Sawant Abhishek , Mills Paul K. , Dhingra Hemant
Published: June 2012

The creation and maintenance of vascular access for hemodialysis patients is responsible for a significant amount of morbidity and hospital expenses which continue to escalate with increasing population of ESRD patients. A retrospective review of patient charts were performed from 2008 to May 2011 at an academic tertiary care center who had a diagnosis of vascular access failure based on ICD 9 coding. Data regarding demographic information, length of stay (LOS), source of insurance, hospital expenses, and discharge status were obtained. Based on strict inclusion criteria we identified 172 total patients. The mean age among all patients was 60.53 ± 15.35 years and the majority of patients were Hispanic (n = 81). The Mean LOS was 5.30 ± 4.64 days. Mean hospital costs were 41,896 ± 20,318 US$. Patients admitted for tunneled dialysis placement had greater length of stay (p‐value = 0.011) as did patients with hypertension (p‐value = 0.030). Hospital expenses were significantly higher for patients admitted for arterio‐venous fistula complications (55,456 ± 23,779 US$) compared with admissions for catheter or dialysis graft related complications (p‐value = 0.004). Patients on Medicare had significantly lower length of stay (3.98 ± 3.32 days) compared with patients with Medicare/Medical (6.59 ± 5.69 days), p‐value = 0.047. Inpatient management of vascular access failure is associated with increased length of stay, and significant hospital expenses. Timely referral to vascular access centers can prevent unnecessary hospitalizations and provide cost‐saving benefits.
The Controversies of Diagnosing and Treating Hypertension among Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Agarwal Rajiv
Published: June 2012

This review discusses 10 current controversies regarding the dialysis patient with hypertension. The clinician is faced with a dilemma at the bedside on how to evaluate blood pressure and treat this condition in a patient on long‐term hemodialysis. The evidence base to give firm recommendations is thin, but the epidemiological evidence tells us to do nothing. This appears to be an incorrect strategy, at least based on what we know today. Evaluating home BP in every dialysis patient, evaluating volume status on a regular basis, and treating hypertension predominantly with nonpharmacological strategies are worthwhile.
Multimodal Approach for the Management of Hunan Hand Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Saxena Ashok Kumar , Mandhyan Rajani
Published: June 2012

Hunan hand syndrome, a form of painful contact dermatitis, is a rare case finding. It is usually seen in people with continuous and prolonged exposure to chili peppers. The main ingredient in chili peppers is capsaicin that leads to the clinical condition, Hunan hand syndrome. This is paradoxical to the use of capsaicin as local application for relief of pain in various clinical situations, such as diabetic neuropathy and postherpetic neuralgia. We report a case of Hunan hand syndrome, managed successfully by using a multimodal approach comprised of a continuous stellate ganglion block, gabapentin, local ice water, and fluocinonide application.
Connecting Pills and People:
Authors: Seeberg Jens
Published: June 2012

This article explores the impact of intensive competition within the pharmaceutical industry and among private providers on health care in an Indian city. In‐depth interviewing and clinical observation were used over a period of 18 months. Private practitioners and chemists who provided regular services to inhabitants of a poor neighborhood in central Bhubaneswar were included. Fierce competition in private health in Odisha, India, reduced quality of care for the poor. The pharmaceutical industry exploited weak links in the health system to push drugs aggressively, including through illegal channels. The private health market is organized in small “network molecules” that maximize profit at the cost of health. The large private share of health care in India and stiff competition are detrimental for primary care in urban India. Free government services are urgently needed and a planned health insurance scheme should be linked to quality control measures.[India, pharmaceutical industry, private practitioners, retail pharmacies, private health care sector]
The Register of “Complaint”:
Authors: Chua Jocelyn Lim
Published: June 2012

In the language of the medical file, “complaint” refers to the symptoms and ailments reported by the patient. In this article, I draw on ethnographic fieldwork conducted between 2004 and 2007 in the mental healthcare setting in South India to argue that the typology of “complaint” and the dialogic exchanges involved in its production mark a far wider catchment area for the allegations and grievances that circulate between patient, kin, clinician, and observing anthropologist. I propose the notion of the register of complaint as a hermeneutic for grappling with the emotionally charged, interactional processes of accusation, arbitration, and reportage that drive clinical modes of inquiry and evaluation in the South Indian mental health encounter. Ethnographic case studies suggest that grievance and accusation command both a vital directive force and evidentiary role in the social, moral, and emotional work of psychiatric diagnosis.[complaint, diagnosis, kinship and family, emotion, psychiatry, South India]
Emergency Department Case Volume and Patient Outcomes in Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Tsai Chu‐Lin , Delclos George L. , Camargo Carlos A.
Published: June 2012

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2012; 19:656–663 © 2012 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine

Objectives:  The objective was to determine whether emergency department (ED) case volume of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) is associated with patient outcomes in AECOPD.

Methods:  The authors analyzed the 2007 Nationwide Emergency Department Sample (NEDS), the largest publicly available all‐payer ED database in the United States. ED visits for AECOPD were identified with a principal diagnosis of International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD‐9‐CM) code 491.21. EDs were categorized into quartiles by ED case volume of AECOPD. The primary outcome measures were early inpatient mortality (within the first 3 days of admission) and hospital length of stay (LOS).

Results:  The 2007 NEDS sample contained 126,045 ED visits for AECOPD from 946 U.S. EDs; 58% were hospitalized. Of these, the overall inpatient mortality rate was 2.0%, the early inpatient mortality 0.6%, and the median hospital LOS 4 days. Early inpatient mortality was lower in the highest‐volume EDs (0.47%), compared with the lowest‐volume EDs (1.13%). In a multivariable analysis adjusting for 37 patient and hospital characteristics, early inpatient mortality remained lower in patients admitted through the highest‐volume EDs (adjusted odds ratios [ORs] = 0.51; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.32 to 0.82), compared with the lowest‐volume EDs; however, the hospital LOS in the highest‐volume EDs was slightly longer (adjusted difference in LOS = 0.53 day; 95% CI = 0.29 to 0.77). The volume threshold for reduced early mortality was approximately 200 cases per year.

Conclusions:  ED patients who are hospitalized for AECOPD have an approximately 50% reduction in early inpatient mortality if they were admitted from an ED that handles a large volume of AECOPD cases.
Risk Factors for Increased ED Utilization in a Multinational Cohort of Children With Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Glassberg Jeffrey A. , Wang Jason , Cohen Robyn , Richardson Lynne D. , DeBaun Michael R.
Published: June 2012

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2012; 19:664–672 © 2012 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine

Objectives:  The objective was to identify clinical, social, and environmental risk factors for increased emergency department (ED) use in children with sickle cell disease (SCD).

Methods:  This study was a secondary analysis of ED utilization data from the international multicenter Silent Cerebral Infarct Transfusion (SIT) trial. Between December 2004 and June 2010, baseline demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were collected from children with SCD participating in the trial. The primary outcome was the frequency of ED visits for pain. A secondary outcome was the frequency of ED visits for acute chest syndrome.

Results:  The sample included 985 children from the United States, Canada, England, and France, for a total of 2,955 patient‐years of data. There were 0.74 ED visits for pain per patient‐year. A past medical history of asthma was associated with an increased risk of ED utilization for both pain (rate ratio [RR] = 1.28, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.04 to 1.58) and acute chest syndrome (RR = 1.60, 95% CI = 1.03 to 2.49). Exposure to environmental tobacco smoke in the home was associated with 73% more ED visits for acute chest syndrome (RR = 1.73, 95% CI = 1.09 to 2.74). Each $10,000 increase in household income was associated with 5% fewer ED visits for pain (RR = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.91 to 1.00, p = 0.05). The association between low income and ED utilization was not significantly different in the United States versus countries with universal health care (p = 0.51).

Conclusions:  Asthma and exposure to environmental tobacco smoke are potentially modifiable risk factors for greater ED use in children with SCD. Low income is associated with greater ED use for SCD pain in countries with and without universal health care.
U.S. Emergency Department Visits for Meningitis, 1993–2008
Authors: Takhar Sukhjit S. , Ting Sarah A. , Camargo Carlos A. , Pallin Daniel J.
Published: June 2012

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2012; 19:632–639 © 2012 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine

Objectives:  Large‐scale epidemiologic studies of meningitis in the emergency department (ED) setting are lacking. Using a nationwide sample, the authors determined the frequency of meningitis visits and characterize management.

Methods:  Using National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NHAMCS) data, 1993 through 2008, meningitis diagnoses were studied and national rates were estimated via standard weighting procedures.

Results:  Meningitis was diagnosed at 1,048,000 visits (95% confidence interval [CI] = 893,000 to 1,203,000) during 1993 through 2008. This is 66,000 cases annually, or 62 per 100,000 visits, with no change over time (p = 0.20). ED diagnoses were unspecified (60%), viral (31%), bacterial (8%), and fungal (1%) meningitis. Median age was 24 years (interquartile range = 9 to 40 years). While 1.97 times as many adults were diagnosed with meningitis (95% CI = 1.83 to 2.13), meningitis accounted for a similar proportion of visits among children and adults (ratio = 1.33, 95% CI = 0.58 to 2.63). Per population, children were more likely to have a meningitis visit (31 vs. 21 per 100,000; ratio = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.003 to 2.10); children aged younger than 3 years had the highest rate (98 per 100,000, 95% CI = 63 to 133). Spring and summer visits were 1.25 times as numerous as fall and winter (95% CI = 1.15 to 1.36). Third‐generation cephalosporins were administered in 42%, analgesics in 19%, and antiemetics in 15% of cases, and 66% were admitted to the hospital (95% CI = 58% to 73%).

Conclusions:  Meningitis is rare, diagnosed at 62 per 100,000 ED visits. Rates have been stable over time. Children are 1.48 times more likely to have a visit for meningitis, although adults make twice as many visits. Absence of consensus guidelines for patients suspected of having viral meningitis but being tested for bacterial meningitis may lead to variability in admission and prescribing decisions.
Cholesteryl Esters Associated With Acyl‐CoA:cholesterol Acyltransferase Predict Coronary Artery Disease in Patients With Symptoms of Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Miller Chadwick D. , Thomas Michael J. , Hiestand Brian , Samuel Michael P. , Wilson Martha D. , Sawyer Janet , Rudel Lawrence L.
Published: June 2012

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2012; 19:673–682 © 2012 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine

Objectives:  Identifying the likelihood of a patient having coronary artery disease (CAD) at the time of emergency department (ED) presentation with chest pain could reduce the need for stress testing or coronary imaging after myocardial infarction (MI) has been excluded. The authors aimed to determine if a novel cardiac biomarker consisting of plasma cholesteryl ester (CE) levels typically derived from the activity of the enzyme acyl‐CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase (ACAT2) are predictive of CAD in a clinical model.

Methods:  A single‐center prospective cohort design enrolled participants with symptoms of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) undergoing coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) or invasive angiography. Plasma samples were analyzed for CE composition with mass spectrometry. The primary endpoint was any CAD determined at angiography. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to estimate the relationship between the sum of the plasma concentrations from cholesteryl palmitoleate (16:1) and cholesteryl oleate (18:1) (defined as ACAT2‐CE) and the presence of CAD. The added value of ACAT2‐CE to the model was analyzed comparing the C‐statistics and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI).

Results:  The study cohort was composed of 113 participants with a mean (± standard deviation [SD]) age of 49 (±11.7) years, 59% had CAD at angiography, and 23% had an MI within 30 days. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) plasma concentration of ACAT2‐CE was 938 μmol/L (IQR = 758 to 1,099 μmol/L) in patients with CAD and 824 μmol/L (IQR = 683 to 998 μmol/L) in patients without CAD (p = 0.03). When considered with age, sex, and the number of conventional CAD risk factors, ACAT2‐CE levels were associated with a 6.5% increased odds of having CAD per 10 μmol/L increase in concentration. The addition of ACAT2‐CE significantly improved the C‐statistic (0.89 vs. 0.95, p = 0.0035) and IDI (0.15, p < 0.001) compared to the reduced model. In the subgroup of low‐risk observation unit patients, the CE model had superior discrimination compared to the Diamond‐Forrester classification (IDI = 0.403, p < 0.001).

Conclusions:  Plasma levels of ACAT2‐CE have strong potential to predict a patient’s likelihood of having CAD when considered in a clinical model but not when used alone. In turn, a clinical model containing ACAT2‐CE could reduce the need for cardiac imaging after the exclusion of MI.
Termination and activation of store‐operated cyclic AMP production
Authors: Maiellaro Isabella , Lefkimmiatis Konstantinos , Moyer Mary Pat , Curci Silvana , Hofer Aldebaran M.
Published: June 2012

Diverse pathophysiological processes (e.g. obesity, lifespan determination, addiction and male fertility) have been linked to the expression of specific isoforms of the adenylyl cyclases (AC1‐AC10), the enzymes that generate cyclic AMP (cAMP). Our laboratory recently discovered a new mode of cAMP production, prominent in certain cell types, that is stimulated by any manoeuvre causing reduction of free [Ca2+] within the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) calcium store. Activation of this ‘store‐operated’ pathway requires the ER Ca2+ sensor, STIM1, but the identity of the enzymes responsible for cAMP production and how this process is regulated is unknown. Here, we used sensitive FRET‐based sensors for cAMP in single cells combined with silencing and overexpression approaches to show that store‐operated cAMP production occurred preferentially via the isoform AC3 in NCM460 colonic epithelial cells. Ca2+ entry via the plasma membrane Ca2+ channel, Orai1, suppressed cAMP production, independent of store refilling. These findings are an important first step towards defining the functional significance and to identify the protein composition of this novel Ca2+/cAMP crosstalk system.
Dominant‐negative effect of truncated mannose 6‐phosphate/insulin‐like growth factor II receptor species in cancer
Authors: Kreiling Jodi L. , Montgomery Michelle A. , Wheeler Joseph R. , Kopanic Jennifer L. , Connelly Christopher M. , Zavorka Megan E. , Allison Jenna L. , MacDonald Richard G.
Published: June 2012

Oligomerization of the mannose 6‐phosphate/insulin‐like growth factor II receptor (M6P/IGF2R) is important for optimal ligand binding and internalization. M6P/IGF2R is a tumor suppressor gene that exhibits loss of heterozygosity and is mutated in several cancers. We tested the potential dominant‐negative effects of two cancer‐associated mutations that truncate M6P/IGF2R in ectodomain repeats 9 and 14. Our hypothesis was that co‐expression of the truncated receptors with the wild‐type/endogenous full‐length M6P/IGF2R would interfere with M6P/IGF2R function by heterodimer interference. Immunoprecipitation confirmed formation of heterodimeric complexes between full‐length M6P/IGF2Rs and the truncated receptors, termed Rep9F and Rep14F. Remarkably, increasing expression of either Rep9F or Rep14F provoked decreased levels of full‐length M6P/IGF2Rs in both cell lysates and plasma membranes, indicating a dominant‐negative effect on receptor availability. Loss of full‐length M6P/IGF2R was not due to increased proteasomal or lysosomal degradation, but instead arose from increased proteolytic cleavage of cell‐surface M6P/IGF2Rs, resulting in ectodomain release, by a mechanism that was inhibited by metal ion chelators. These data suggest that M6P/IGF2R truncation mutants may contribute to the cancer phenotype by decreasing the availability of full‐length M6P/IGF2Rs to perform tumor‐suppressive functions such as binding/internalization of receptor ligands such as insulin‐like growth factor II.

Structured digital abstract

 Rep9Fphysically interacts with WT‐M by anti tag coimmunoprecipitation (View Interaction: 1, 2)

 Rep14Fphysically interacts with WT‐M by anti tag coimmunoprecipitation (View Interaction: 3, 4)