bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Close association of active nitrifiers with Beggiatoa mats covering deep‐sea hydrothermal sediments
Authors: Winkel Matthias , de Beer Dirk , Lavik Gaute , Peplies Jörg , Mußmann Marc
Published: October 2013

Hydrothermal sediments in the Guaymas Basin are covered by microbial mats that are dominated by nitrate‐respiring and sulphide‐oxidizing Beggiatoa. The presence of these mats strongly correlates with sulphide‐ and ammonium‐rich fluids venting from the subsurface. Because ammonium and oxygen form opposed gradients at the sediment surface, we hypothesized that nitrification is an active process in these Beggiatoa mats. Using biogeochemical and molecular methods, we measured nitrification and determined the diversity and abundance of nitrifiers. Nitrification rates ranged from 74 to 605 μmol N l−1 mat day−1, which exceeded those previously measured in hydrothermal plumes and other deep‐sea habitats. Diversity and abundance analyses of archaeal and bacterial ammonia monooxygenase subunit A genes, archaeal 16S ribosomal RNA pyrotags and fluorescence in situ hybridization confirmed that ammonia‐ and nitrite‐oxidizing microorganisms were associated with Beggiatoa mats. Intriguingly, we observed cells of bacterial and potential thaumarchaeotal ammonia oxidizers attached to narrow, Beggiatoa‐like filaments. Such a close spatial coupling of nitrification and nitrate respiration in mats of large sulphur bacteria is novel and may facilitate mat‐internal cycling of nitrogen, thereby reducing loss of bioavailable nitrogen in deep‐sea sediments.
How electoral vulnerability affects pension politics: Introducing a concept, measure and empirical application
Authors: Immergut Ellen M. , Abou‐Chadi Tarik
Published: October 2013

Are electorally vulnerable politicians really less likely to support controversial legislation, such as pension reforms? While the literature on welfare state retrenchment has increasingly pointed to the role of electoral factors in the dynamics of social policy cutbacks, there are few studies that actually measure the magnitude of electoral pressure and its consequent impact on the politics of reform. To this end, the authors have developed a quantitative measure of the electoral vulnerability of politicians and tested its impact on pension reform outcomes using an original dataset comprising 16 Western European countries from 1980 to 2003. In line with expectations, the results show that the impact of electoral vulnerability on reform depends upon the system of interest intermediation. In corporatist systems, electoral vulnerability indeed impedes reform. But in pluralist systems, increased electoral vulnerability is associated with higher levels of reform. This is because unions in corporatist (but not in pluralist) systems can exploit electoral vulnerability in pre‐legislative bargaining, and thus pressure politicians. Consequently, this study has broader implications for the differential responsiveness of democracies to redistributive issues more generally.
Revealing preferences: Does deliberation increase ideological awareness among the less well educated?
Authors: Isernia Pierangelo , Smets Kaat
Published: October 2013

Research suggests that the rightist discourse on immigration appeals to left‐leaning citizens with lower levels of education. The opposite is, however, not true for right‐wing voters with lower educational levels, and this asymmetry leaves left‐wing parties at a disadvantage compared with the right on immigration and integration issues. Deliberative theory promises that discussion, information and reflection can promote a more balanced political discussion and a more enlightened citizen. This article assesses the extent to which deliberative polling increases the ideological awareness of citizens with lower educational levels. More specifically, it gauges the extent to which especially less well educated left‐wing voters – those whose attitudes research finds to be particularly out of tune with their ideological predispositions regarding immigration and integration – adjust their attitudes as a consequence of deliberate exposure to informational input and the presentation of two‐sided arguments. Use is made of unique data generated during the first European‐wide deliberative polling project, ‘EuroPolis’, held in 2009. The results indicate that less well educated left‐wing voters indeed have slightly more negative attitudes towards immigrants than leftist voters with secondary or post‐secondary educational levels. Turning to the micro‐mechanisms of attitude change in a deliberative setting, the analyses show that both levels of education and ideological predispositions play a role in the extent to which participants of the deliberative poll adjust their attitudes. In three out of four models, evidence is found that less well educated left‐leaning citizens are indeed most likely to adjust their attitudes on immigration and integration after being presented with a more balanced discussion of the topic.
Identifying Diagonal Cutter Marks on Thin Wires Using 3D Imaging
Authors: Heikkinen Ville Vili , Kassamakov Ivan , Barbeau Claude , Lehto Sami , Reinikainen Tapani , Hæggström Edward
Published: October 2013

We present work on matching 2‐mm‐thick wires using optical 3D imaging methods. Marks on such small surfaces are difficult to match using a comparison microscope as this 2D imaging method does not provide height data about the sample surface. Moreover, these 2D microscopy images may be affected by illumination. Hence, the reference and investigated sample should be present at the same time. We employed scanning white light interferometry and confocal microscopy to provide quantitative 3D profiles for reliable comparison of samples that are unavailable for simultaneous analysis. We show that 3D profiling offers a solution by allowing illumination‐independent sample comparison. We correctly identified 74 of 80 profiles using consecutive matching striae (CMS) criteria, and we were able to match samples based on profiles measured using different 3D imaging devices. The results suggest that the used methods allow matching cutter marks on thin wires, which has been difficult previously.
Demonstration program of population‐based lung cancer screening in China: Rationale and study design
Authors: Zhou Qinghua , Fan Yaguang , Wu Ning , Huang Yunchao , Wang Ying , Li Lu , Liu Jiewei , Wang Xinyun , Li Weimin , Qiao Youlin
Published: October 2013

Background

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer‐related death and has become an enormous economic burden in China. Low‐dose spiral computed tomography (LDCT) screening could reduce lung cancer mortality. The feasibility of conducting a population‐based lung cancer screening with LDCT in China is uncertain.

Methods

In 2010, a demonstration program of lung cancer screening was initiated in China. High‐risk individuals were enrolled in a cluster sampling design in different centers. Participants received baseline and annual screening with spiral CT and follow‐up information was collected. The objective of this program is to evaluate the feasibility of conducting population‐based LDCT lung cancer screening in the Chinese context. The rates of detection, early diagnosis and treatment are defined as indicators of program performance. The optimal management strategies for nodules are explored in the Chinese context based on experiences in other studies overseas.

Results

A demonstration program of ongoing prospective, multi‐center, population‐based lung cancer screening is being performed in China.

Conclusions

This demonstration program will provide opportunities to explore the feasibility of LDCT lung cancer screening in the Chinese setting.
Reporting combined outcomes with Trifecta and survival, continence, and potency (SCP) classification in 337 patients with prostate cancer treated with image‐guided hypofractionated radiotherapy
Authors: Jereczek‐Fossa Barbara A. , Zerini Dario , Fodor Cristiana , Santoro Luigi , Maucieri Andrea , Gerardi Marianna A. , Vischioni Barbara , Cambria Raffaella , Garibaldi Cristina , Cattani Federica , Vavassori Andrea , Matei Deliu V. , Musi Gennaro , De Cobelli Ottavio , Orecchia Roberto
Published: October 2013

Objective

To report the image‐guided hypofractionated radiotherapy (hypo‐IGRT) outcome for patients with localised prostate cancer according to the new outcome models Trifecta (cancer control, urinary continence, and sexual potency) and SCP (failure‐free survival, continence and potency).

Patients and Methods

Between August 2006 and January 2011, 337 patients with cT1–T2N0M0 prostate cancer (median age 73 years) were eligible for a prospective longitudinal study on hypo‐IGRT (70.2 Gy/26 fractions) in our Department.

Patients completed four questionnaires before treatment, and during follow‐up: the International Index of Erectile Function‐5 (IIEF‐5), the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer prostate‐cancer‐specific Quality of Life Questionnaires (QLQ) QLQ‐PR25 and QLQ‐C30.

Baseline and follow‐up patient data were analysed according to the Trifecta and SCP outcome models. Cancer control, continence and potency were defined respectively as no evidence of disease, score 1 or 2 for item 36 of the QLQ‐PR25 questionnaire, and total score of >16 on the IIEF‐5 questionnaire.

Patients receiving androgen‐deprivation therapy (ADT) at any time were excluded.

Results

Trifecta criteria at baseline were met in 72 patients (42% of all ADT‐free patients with completed questionnaires).

Both at 12 and 24 months after hypo‐IGRT, 57% of the Trifecta patients at baseline were still meeting the Trifecta criteria (both oncological and functional success according to the SCP model).

The main reason for failing the Trifecta criteria during follow‐up was erectile dysfunction: in 18 patients after 6 months follow‐up, in 12 patients after 12 months follow‐up, and in eight patients after 24 months.

Actuarial 2‐year Trifecta failure‐free survival rate was 44% (95% confidence interval 27–60%).

In multivariate analysis no predictors of Trifecta failure were identified. Missing questionnaires was the main limitation of the study.

Conclusion

The Trifecta and SCP classifications can be used as tools to report RT outcome.
The impact of perioperative blood transfusion on survival after nephrectomy for non‐metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC)
Authors: Linder Brian J. , Thompson R. Houston , Leibovich Bradley C. , Cheville John C. , Lohse Christine M. , Gastineau Dennis A. , Boorjian Stephen A.
Published: October 2013

Objective

To evaluate the association of perioperative blood transfusion (PBT) with survival after nephrectomy.

Patients and Methods

We identified 2318 patients who underwent partial or radical nephrectomy at Mayo Clinic between 1990 and 2006.

PBT was defined as transfusion of allogenic red blood cells during surgery or postoperative hospitalisation.

Survival was estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method and compared with the log‐rank test. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to evaluate the association of PBT with outcome.

Results

In all, 498 patients (21%) received a PBT. The median (interquartile range) number of units transfused was 3 (2, 5).

Patients receiving a PBT were significantly older at surgery (P < 0.001), more likely to be female (P < 0.001), with more frequent symptomatic presentation (P < 0.001), worse Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (P < 0.001), and more frequent adverse pathological features, such as high nuclear grade (P < 0.001), locally‐advanced tumour stage (P < 0.001) and lymph node invasion (P < 0.001).

The median follow‐up was 9.1 years. Receipt of a PBT was associated with adverse 5‐year cancer‐specific (68% vs 92%; P < 0.001) and overall (56% vs 82%; P < 0.001) survival.

On multivariate analyses, PBT remained associated with higher risk of death from any cause (hazard ratio [HR] 1.23; P = 0.02).

Among patients who received a PBT, an increasing number of units transfused was independently associated with increased all‐cause mortality (HR 1.08; P = 0.001).

Conclusion

PBT is associated with a significantly increased risk of mortality after nephrectomy. While external validation is needed, continued efforts to minimise the use of blood products in these patients are warranted.
Cascading Effects of Climate Change: Do Hurricane‐damaged Forests Increase Risk of Exposure to Parasites?
Authors: Behie Alison M. , Kutz Susan , Pavelka Mary S.
Published: October 2013

Increased parasitism in animals in disturbed habitats is often understood to be the result of increased disease susceptibility due to low food availability resulting in nutritionally stressed and immunocompromised individuals. Such habitat change, however, might also lead to increased exposure to disease. In this article, we test measures of susceptibility and exposure to explain the prevalence and intensity of directly and indirectly transmitted helminths in black howler monkeys (Alouatta pigra) following a hurricane in Belize. None of these parasites were predicted by direct measures of susceptibility (as measured by fruit consumption and fecal cortisol levels). Rather, directly transmitted parasites (Trichurissp. and strongylid type eggs.) were predicted by host density and group size, both measures of exposure. Similarly, only the consumption ofCecropia peltata, a fast growing pioneer that has a mutualistic relationship with ants predicted levels of the indirectly transmitted trematodeControrchisspp., also suggesting exposure.Cecropia peltataalso increased in density post‐hurricane, was high in digestible protein, sugar, and salt and eaten by monkeys more frequently than predicted based on distribution. These data suggest that in this hurricane‐damaged forest the ingestion of this abundant and nutritious pioneer species increased exposure of the monkeys toControrchisthrough ingestion of ant intermediate hosts. These results may point to a pattern true of pioneer species in general, leaving animals in disturbed forests with higher levels of parasitism as a result of changes to forest structure. As severe weather events are expected to increase, this suggests a cascading effect of climate change on ecosystem interactions and disease ecology.
Emergency endoscopy for acute gastrointestinal bleeding: Prognostic value of endoscopic hemostasis and the AIMS65 score in Japanese patients
Authors: Nakamura Shotaro , Matsumoto Takayuki , Sugimori Hiroshi , Esaki Motohiro , Kitazono Takanari , Hashizume Makoto
Published: October 2013

Background and Aim

To evaluate the prognostic factors, including risk scores (Glasgow‐Blatchford score and AIMS65) in patients with acute upper or lower gastrointestinal bleeding.

Methods

The medical records of patients who had undergone emergency gastrointestinal endoscopy for suspected gastrointestinal bleeding during the past 5 years were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

A total of 232 endoscopies (130 esophagogastroduodenoscopies, 102 colonoscopies) for 192 patients met the inclusion criteria. Median age was 66 years, and 64% of patients were males. Endoscopy identified causes for bleeding in 173 patients (post‐endoscopic interventions for neoplastic lesions in 36 cases, colonic diverticula in 34, gastroduodenal ulcers in 29, gastric erosions in 15, vascular ectasia in 14, post‐biopsy bleeding in 13, malignant tumors in 10, inflammatory conditions in nine, esophagogastric varices in five, Mallory‐Weiss tears in four, nasalbleeding in three, and injury by swallowed blister pack in one), whereas the source of bleeding remained obscure in 19 patients. Blood transfusion was given in 97 patients (51%), and 97 (51%) underwent endoscopic hemostasis. During the follow‐up period, 49 patients (26%) experienced rebleeding, seven of whom were treated by interventional radiology. Thirty‐nine patients (20%) died as a result of various diseases. The probabilities of overall survival (OS) after 3 and 5 years were 71% and 67%, respectively. Cox multivariate analysis revealed blood transfusion, co‐existing malignancy, absence of endoscopic hemostasis, and high AIMS65 score to be independent prognostic factors for poor OS.

Conclusion

The AIMS65 score is useful for predicting the prognosis of patients with acute gastrointestinal bleeding.
Angiogenesis is increased in advanced haemophilic joint disease and characterised by normal pericyte coverage
Authors: Zetterberg Eva , Palmblad Jan , Wallensten Rickard , Morfini Massimo , Melchiorre Daniela , Holmström Margareta
Published: October 2013

Background

Repeated intra‐articular bleedings in patients with haemophilia results in a crippling arthropathy for which no specific treatment is currently available. Recent studies have shown that neoangiogenesis is involved in the pathologic process. The aim of this study was to determine whether angiogenesis is dysregulated in haemophilic joint disease (HJD).

Methods

Synovial tissue and synovial fluid were collected from patients with severe haemophilia undergoing knee or hip replacement and from a control group consisting of non‐haemophilic patients undergoing diagnostic procedures. In a second set of patients, blood samples were collected in patients with mild, moderate and severe haemophilia A when free from current bleeding. Analysis of microvascular density, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression and pericyte coverage was performed by immunofluorescence. Analyses of VEGF concentrations in plasma, platelet lysates and synovial fluid were performed by ELISA.

Results

Microvascular density and VEGF expression were significantly increased in synovial tissue from haemophilic patients compared with controls (P = 0.005 and P = 0.02, respectively). There was no difference in pericyte coverage of synovial vessels or levels of VEGF in plasma, platelet lysates or synovial fluid.

Conclusions

Angiogenesis observed as synovial microvascular density, and VEGF expression is increased in HJD. As pericyte coverage was similar in synovial vessels from haemophilic and non‐haemophilic patients, we assume that the vessels were mature, suggesting that the rate of new vessel formation is low in the chronic phase of haemophilic joint disease.
Switching clotting factor concentrates: considerations in estimating the risk of immunogenicity
Authors: Matino D. , Lillicrap D. , Astermark J. , Dolan G. , Kessler C. , Lambert T. , Makris M. , O'Donnell J. , Pipe S. , Santagostino E. , Saint‐Remy J.‐M. , Schramm W. , Iorio A.
Published: October 2013

The development of neutralizing antibodies to factor VIII (FVIII) is the most serious complication of therapy for haemophilia A. There is now excellent documentation that a large number of both genetic and environmental factors contribute to the risk of FVIII inhibitor incidence. One of the environmental factors that has been proposed as an influence on this complication is the occurrence of FVIII product switching. There are only a small number of clinical studies that have addressed this question, and thus, the amount of objective information available to assess this association is limited. In this review, in addition to summarizing past evidence pertinent to this subject, we present the results of a complementary strategy, a Delphi analysis, to add to the considerations of product switching and FVIII immunogenicity. With the imminent arrival in the clinic of several new FVIII products, the haemophilia community must be prepared to collect prospectively controlled data to better address this important management issue.
Choosing Wisely in Headache Medicine: The American Headache Society's List of Five Things Physicians and Patients Should Question
Authors: Loder Elizabeth , Weizenbaum Emma , Frishberg Benjamin , Silberstein Stephen ,   American Headache Society Choosing Wisely Task Force
Published: October 2013

In an effort to draw attention to tests and procedures associated with low‐value care in headache medicine, the American Headache Society (AHS) joined the Choosing Wisely initiative of the American Board of Internal Medicine Foundation. The AHS president appointed an ad hoc “Choosing Wisely” task force of the AHS. The committee surveyed AHS members to develop a candidate list of items for the AHS “Top 5” list of low‐value care in headache medicine. Through a process of literature review and consensus, the final list of five items was chosen. Draft recommendations went through several rounds of revision and a process of outside review. The AHS Board of Directors approved the final list of “Five Things.” The five recommendations approved by the AHS Board of Directors are: (1) don't perform neuroimaging studies in patients with stable headaches that meet criteria for migraine; (2) don't perform computed tomography imaging for headache when magnetic resonance imaging is available, except in emergency settings; (3) don't recommend surgical deactivation of migraine trigger points outside of a clinical trial; (4) don't prescribe opioid‐ or butalbital‐containing medications as a first‐line treatment for recurrent headache disorders; and (5) don't recommend prolonged or frequent use of over‐the‐counter pain medications for headache. We recommend that headache medicine specialists and other physicians who evaluate and treat headache disorders should use this list when discussing care with patients.
Insomnia and Periodicity of Headache in an Arctic Cluster Headache Population
Authors: Ofte Hilde K. , Berg Diana H. , Bekkelund Svein I. , Alstadhaug Karl B.
Published: October 2013

Objective

To assess the prevalence of chronic insomnia and the periodicity of headache attacks in an Arctic cluster headache population.

Background

Cluster headache is a sleep‐related disorder, and attacks have both circadian and circannual rhythmicity.

Methods

Through a retrospective hospital chart review, we identified all subjects diagnosed with episodic cluster headache (ICD‐10 G 44.0) at the Neurological Departments in Northern Norway (located north of 66°33′N) between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2010. Patients with a confirmed diagnosis (ICHD‐2) received a comprehensive questionnaire covering demographic data, clinical characteristics, sleep, and periodicity of attacks.

Results

A total of 196 subjects were registered, and 178 received the questionnaire. The response rate was 88/178 (49%). Fifty‐eight men (aged 49.2 ± 13.6) and 12 women (aged 49.7 ± 15.5) were included. Forty percent of the responders suffered from chronic insomnia (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 4th edition). Forty‐nine percent of the responders and 42% of the non‐responders were shift workers, which is much higher than compared with the general population (24%). Insomnia was significantly associated with shift work and experiencing longer‐lasting cluster bouts. One third attributed their insomnia to the cluster headache. Thirty‐seven percent reported a seasonal predilection of the cluster periods, and 58% a diurnal periodicity of attacks. Eighty percent often or always had headache attacks during sleep, the most frequent time interval being at 12:00‐4:00 am. Shift workers were significantly more likely to see lack of sleep as a cluster attack trigger than daytime workers.

Conclusions

Chronic insomnia and shift work seem to be common among Arctic cluster headache patients. The small number of subjects included in this study implies that conclusions should be drawn with caution, but the findings support the idea of cluster headache as a circadian rhythm disorder.
Cytochrome P4503A activity affects the gender difference in the development of steroid‐induced osteonecrosis in rabbits
Authors: Ikemura Satoshi , Yamamoto Takuaki , Motomura Goro , Yamaguchi Ryosuke , Zhao Garida , Iwasaki Kenyu , Iwamoto Yukihide
Published: October 2013

The aim of this study was to investigate cytochrome P4503A activity and its correlation with the development of osternecrosis (ON) among male and female steroid‐treated rabbits. Forty adult rabbits (male, n = 20; female, n = 20) were injected once with 20 mg/kg of methylprednisolone intramuscularly. Haematologically, cytochrome P4503A activity was measured by plasma 1′‐hydroxymidazolam‐to‐midazolam (1′‐OH‐MDZ/MDZ) ratio just before and 48 h after the steroid injection. We also measured the levels of oestradiol every week. Both femora and humeri were histopathologically examined for the presence of ON. Fifteen of 20 male rabbits (75%) developed ON, while 6 of 20 female rabbits (30%) did so. There was a significant difference in the rate of incidence of ON between male and female rabbits (P = 0.010). The 1′‐OH‐MDZ/MDZ ratio in female rabbits just before, as well as 48 h after the steroid injection was significantly higher than that in male rabbits (P = 0.039 and P = 0.001 respectively). In addition, 1′‐OH‐MDZ/MDZ ratio in female rabbits significantly increased in 48 h after the steroid injection (P = 0.044), while that in male rabbits did not so (P = 0.978). The levels of oestradiol in female rabbits were significantly higher than those in male rabbits during the experimental period (P = 0.008). In conclusion, this study indicates that the gender difference in cytochrome P4503A activity may be one of the important factors for the development of steroid‐induced ON, possibly due to the effects of oestradiol.
Emily Dickinson and Monkeys on the Stair or: What is the Significance of the 5% Significance Level?
Authors: Kelly Mark
Published: October 2013

‘Once is happenstance, twice is coincidence, three times is enemy action.1’ But when does statistical significance kick in? Statisticians set the 5% level as Biblical; but as Mark Kelly points out, it ain't necessarily so.
Melatonin prevents pancreatic β‐cell loss due to glucotoxicity: the relationship between oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Park Jae‐Hyung , Shim Hye‐Min , Na Ann‐Yae , Bae Ki‐Cheor , Bae Jae‐Hoon , Im Seung‐Soon , Cho Ho‐Chan , Song Dae‐Kyu
Published: October 2013

Prolonged hyperglycemia results in pancreatic β‐cell dysfunction and apoptosis, referred to as glucotoxicity. Although both oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stresses have been implicated as major causative mechanisms of β‐cell glucotoxicity, the reciprocal importance between the two remains to be elucidated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the differential effect of oxidative stress and ER stress on β‐cell glucotoxicity, by employing melatonin which has free radical‐scavenging and antioxidant properties. As expected, in β‐cells exposed to prolonged high glucose levels, cell viability and glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) were significantly impaired. Melatonin treatment markedly attenuated cellular apoptosis by scavenging reactive oxygen species via its plasmalemmal receptor‐independent increase in antioxidant enzyme activity. However, treatments with antioxidants alone were insufficient to recover the impaired GSIS. Interestingly, 4‐phenylbutyric acid (4‐PBA), a chemical chaperone that attenuate ER stress by stabilizing protein structure, alleviated the impaired GSIS, but not apoptosis, suggesting that glucotoxicity induces oxidative and ER stress independently. We found that cotreatment of glucotoxic β‐cells with melatonin and 4‐PBA dramatically improved both their survival and insulin secretion. Taken together, these results suggest that ER stress may be the more critical mechanism for prolonged high‐glucose‐induced GSIS impairment, whereas oxidative stress appears to be more critical for the impaired β‐cell viability. Therefore, combinatorial therapy of melatonin with an ER stress modifier may help recover pancreatic β‐cells under glucotoxic conditions in type 2 diabetes.
Range expansion, genetic differentiation, and phenotypic adaption of Hippophaë neurocarpa (Elaeagnaceae) on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: KOU Yi‐Xuan , WU Yu‐Xia , JIA Dong‐Rui , LI Zhong‐Hu , WANG Yu‐Jin
Published: October 2013

Plant species shift ranges in response to climate fluctuation over time. However, differentiation related to heterogeneity in space has been illustrated only rarely. Here we selected Hippophaë neurocarpa S. W. Liu & T. N. Ho (Elaeagnaceae), a shrub endemic to the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, to exemplify this process. We characterized the genotypic, phenotypic, and climatic variations among 27 populations of this species sampled across its entire distribution. Genotype analyses revealed six highly differentiated groups that may have resulted from expansions in spatial range. Despite recent fluctuation in size, it is likely that most groups survived the last glacial maximum in situ. Instead of two previously described subspecies, we identified four morphotypes (stellate, peltate, and two additional types) that can be characterized based on leaf trichomes. This phenotypic subdivision is consistent with a climate gradient defined by temperature and precipitation, although similar phenotypes may derive from distinct genotypes. Collectively, we propose that the demographic history of H. neurocarpa is characteristic of an early spatial range expansion combined with a recent bottleneck, subsequently subdivided into multiple morphotypes following local adaption to heterogeneous climates.
Sexual Function in Post-Stroke Patients: Considerations for Rehabilitation
Authors: Rosenbaum Talli , Vadas Dor , Kalichman Leonid
Published: October 2013

Introduction

While the rehabilitation goals of post-stroke patients include improving quality of life and returning to functional activities, the extent to which sexual activity is addressed as part of the standard rehabilitation process is unknown. Moreover, the specific sexual concerns of stroke patients, including the effect of stroke on intimate relationships and sexuality of the partner, the ability to physically engage in sex, and the effect of psychological components such as role identity, depression, and anxiety on sexuality, all warrant examination by rehabilitation professionals.

Aim

The aim of this study is to examine the existing literature on sexuality and stroke patients in order to better understand how the sexual lives of stroke patients and their partners are affected and to provide recommendations to rehabilitation professionals for addressing sexuality as part of treatment.

Methods

Narrative review, PubMed, PEDro, ISI Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases (inception—December 2012) were searched for the key words “stroke,” “sexual dysfunction,” “sexuality,” “quality of life,” and their combination. All relevant articles in English and secondary references were reviewed.

Main Outcome Measures

We report the results of the literature review.

Results

Sexual dysfunction and decreased sexual satisfaction are common in the post-stroke population and are related to physical, psychosocial, and relational factors. However, they are not adequately addressed in post-stroke rehabilitation.

Conclusions

As sexual function is an important component to quality of life and activities of daily living, physicians and rehabilitation specialists, including physical, occupational, and speech therapists, should receive training in addressing sexuality in the treatment of post-stroke patients. Sexologists and sex therapists should be an integral part of the rehabilitation team.
Linear and Nonlinear Rheology of Mixed Polysaccharide Gels. Pt. II. Extrusion, Compression, Puncture and Extension Tests and Correlation with Sensory Evaluation
Authors: Brenner Tom , Hayakawa Fumiyo , Ishihara Sayaka , Tanaka Yoshimi , Nakauma Makoto , Kohyama Kaoru , Achayuthakan Piyada , Funami Takahiro , Nishinari Katsuyoshi
Published: October 2013

We report on an extrusion test and its correlation with sensory perception. The extrusion test was implemented on a texture analyzer and applied to single‐component or composite polysaccharide gels. The extrusion force did not depend strongly on the volumetric flow rate, indicating a predominantly elastic contribution to the force. The extrusion force correlated highly with sensory perception of the cutting effort and its ratio to the elastic modulus correlated highly with perception of the extensibility. A combination of the Young's modulus and the extrusion force correlated well with perception of firmness. The robust correlations depended weakly on the flow rate in extrusion, but were much higher for tapering ratios T ≥ 4.5 than for T = 2.5. Notably, the correlation obtained was higher than that with texture profile analysis parameters. We show the correlation of several empirical and fundamental large deformation tests with texture, and suggest that the higher correlation with extrusion reflects the closer mixed‐mode deformation in mastication.

Practical Applications

The report highlights correlation of parameters from empirical and fundamental rheological tests with sensory evaluation. The forces generated in an empirical extrusion test emerge as appropriate and reliable descriptors of several sensory attributes. The approach outlined is appropriate in general for textural mapping of semisolid and solid foods with an apparent yield stress.
Pleistocene Chinese cave hyenas and the recent Eurasian history of the spotted hyena, Crocuta crocuta
Authors: Sheng Gui‐Lian , Soubrier Julien , Liu Jin‐Yi , Werdelin Lars , Llamas Bastien , Thomson Vicki A. , Tuke Jonathan , Wu Lian‐Juan , Hou Xin‐Dong , Chen Quan‐Jia , Lai Xu‐Long , Cooper Alan
Published: October 2013

The living hyena species (spotted, brown, striped and aardwolf) are remnants of a formerly diverse group of more than 80 fossil species, which peaked in diversity in the Late Miocene (about 7–8 Ma). The fossil history indicates an African origin, and morphological and ancient DNA data have confirmed that living spotted hyenas (Crocuta crocuta) of Africa were closely related to extinct Late Pleistocene cave hyenas from Europe and Asia. The current model used to explain the origins of Eurasian cave hyena populations invokes multiple migrations out of Africa between 3.5–0.35 Ma. We used mitochondrial DNA sequences from radiocarbon‐dated Chinese Pleistocene hyena specimens to examine the origin of Asian populations, and temporally calibrate the evolutionary history of spotted hyenas. Our results support a far more recent evolutionary timescale (430–163 kya) and suggest that extinct and living spotted hyena populations originated from a widespread Eurasian population in the Late Pleistocene, which was only subsequently restricted to Africa. We developed statistical tests of the contrasting population models and their fit to the fossil record. Coalescent simulations and Bayes Factor analysis support the new radiocarbon‐calibrated timescale and Eurasian origins model. The new Eurasian biogeographic scenario proposed for the hyena emphasizes the role of the vast steppe grasslands of Eurasia in contrast to models only involving Africa. The new methodology for combining genetic and geological data to test contrasting models of population history will be useful for a wide range of taxa where ancient and historic genetic data are available.
IdeR is required for iron homeostasis and virulence in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Pandey Ruchi , Rodriguez G. Marcela
Published: October 2013

Iron is an essential but potentially harmful nutrient, poorly soluble in aerobic conditions, and not freely available in the human host. To acquire iron, bacteria have evolved high affinity iron acquisition systems that are expressed under iron limitation often in conjunction with virulence determinants. Because excess iron can be dangerous, intracellular iron must be tightly controlled. In mycobacteria, IdeR functions as a global iron dependent transcriptional regulator, but because inactivation of ideR is lethal for Mycobacterium tuberculosis, it has not been possible to use genetics to fully characterize this protein's function or examine the requirement of iron regulation during tuberculosis infection. In this work, a conditional M. tuberculosis ideR mutant was generated and used to study the basis of IdeR's essentiality. This investigation uncovered positive regulation of iron storage as a critical aspect of IdeR's function in regular culture and a prominent factor for survival under stresses associated with life in macrophages. Moreover, this study demonstrates that IdeR is indispensable in the mouse model of tuberculosis, thereby linking iron homeostasis to virulence in M. tuberculosis.
Very late relapse of PTLD 10 yr after allogeneic HSCT and nine yr after stopping immunosuppressive therapy
Authors: Helgestad Jon , Rosthøj Steen , Pedersen Morten Høgild , Johansen Preben , Iyer Victor , Østergaard Erik , Heilmann Carsten
Published: October 2013

We present a very late onset relapse of PTLD 10 yr after allogeneic HSCT in a patient in third remission for ALL, nine yr after the first episode of PTLD. The recipient was conditioned with fractionated TBI 12 Gy, cyclophosphamide, and horse ATG. The first episode of PTLD with a large retroperitoneal tumor occurred one yr after transplantation; a residual tumor infiltrating spleen and colon was resected one yr later. Due to continual pathological signals in liver and lungs, persistent fever, and an M‐component in peripheral blood, a new course of four rituximab doses was given, after which the fever settled, the PET scan normalized, and the M‐component disappeared. Without any ongoing immunosuppressive therapy, PTLD relapsed nine yr later with large intra‐abdominal lymph node masses causing ureteric obstruction with bilateral hydronephrosis. Pathological features were identical to the primary PTLD tumor: EBV related, of donor origin, positive for CD138 and CD79 alpha, but negative for CD20 and CD19. The transcription factor PAX5 was negative but BOB1 and OCT2 were positive, consistent with plasmablastic lymphoma. The relapse was successfully treated with a combination of low dose chemotherapy and rituximab. Five yr after end of treatment, the girl has moderately reduced renal function but otherwise remains well without evidence of disease.
Multiplication of Acidovorax citrulli in planta during infection of melon seedlings requires the ability to synthesize leucine
Authors: Ren Z. G. , Jiang W. J. , Ni X. Y. , Lin M. , Zhang W. , Tian G. Z. , Zhang L. Q.
Published: October 2013

Acidovorax citrulli causes seedling blight and bacterial fruit blotch (BFB) of cucurbits, a serious disease threat to cucurbit seed and fruit production worldwide. Despite its economic importance, current knowledge on the biology and pathology of A. citrulli is limited. This work studies a mini‐Tn5 mutant, MJ22‐3, that showed reduced virulence on melon seedlings. The gene disrupted by Tn5 was identified as leuB, which encodes a putative 3‐isopropylmalate dehydrogenase, an enzyme that appears to be essential for leucine biosynthesis. The leuB gene in‐frame deletion mutant MΔleuB, as well as the Tn5‐inserted mutant MJ22‐3, failed to grow in minimal medium without leucine and exhibited reduced swimming motility; however, the mutations had no effect on biofilm formation or induction of the hypersensitive response on tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum). When inoculated at a low cell density (104 CFU mL−1), the leuB gene mutants showed a significantly slower growth rate and attenuated virulence on melon cotyledons compared to the wildtype MH21. However, inoculations with the mutants at high concentration (108 CFU mL−1), or low concentration (104 CFU mL−1) inoculations supplemented with 0·01% leucine resulted in growth rates and disease severities similar to that of the wildtype MH21. The results suggest that leucine biosynthesis is essential for both in vivo growth and full virulence of A. citrulli MH21 on melon seedlings.
Down‐regulation of CaV1.2 channels during hypertension: how fewer CaV1.2 channels allow more Ca2+ into hypertensive arterial smooth muscle
Authors: Tajada Sendoa , Cidad Pilar , Colinas Olaia , Santana L. Fernando , López‐López José R. , Pérez‐García M. Teresa
Published: October 2013

Key points

A hallmark of essential hypertension is an anomalous vascular tone due to the increase in intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) and/or Ca2+ sensitivity in vascular smooth muscle. Down‐regulation of K+ channels together with increased CaV1.2 channel function has been proposed as one pathogenic mechanism.

Using a mouse model of essential hypertension (BPH line), we found a decrease in the global smooth muscle Ca2+ influx due to fewer CaV1.2 channels. However, these CaV1.2 channels are hyperactive, allowing a larger local Ca2+ influx at rest that triggers an increased Ca2+ release from intracellular stores (sparks).

Large conductance, Ca2+‐activated K+ (BK) channels of BPH myocytes show reduced Ca2+ sensitivity, so that its activation by the increased [Ca2+]i is impaired.

Our results suggest that changes in the molecular composition of both CaV1.2 and BK channels could explain vascular dysfunction during hypertension in BPH mice.

Abstract  Hypertension is a clinical syndrome characterized by increased arterial tone. Although the mechanisms are varied, the generally accepted view is that increased CaV1.2 channel function is a common feature of this pathological condition. Here, we investigated the mechanisms underlying vascular dysfunction in a mouse model of genetic hypertension. Contrary to expectation, we found that whole‐cell CaV1.2 currents (ICa) were lower in hypertensive (BPH line) than normotensive (BPN line) myocytes. However, local CaV1.2 sparklet activity was higher in BPH cells, suggesting that the relatively low ICa in these cells was produced by a few hyperactive CaV1.2 channels. Furthermore, our data suggest that while the lower expression of the pore‐forming α1c subunit of CaV1.2 currents underlies the lower ICa in BPH myocytes, the increased sparklet activity was due to a different composition in the auxiliary subunits of the CaV1.2 complexes. ICa currents in BPN cells were produced by channels composed of α1c/α2δ/β3 subunits, while in BPH myocytes currents were probably generated by the opening of channels formed by α1c/α2δ/β2 subunits. In addition, Ca2+ sparks evoked large conductance, Ca2+‐activated K+ (BK) currents of lower magnitude in BPH than in BPN myocytes, because BK channels were less sensitive to Ca2+. Our data are consistent with a model in which a decrease in the global number of CaV1.2 currents coexist with the existence of a subpopulation of highly active channels that dominate the resting Ca2+ influx. The decrease in BK channel activity makes the hyperpolarizing brake ineffective and leads BPH myocytes to a more contracted resting state.
Combining Imaging Modalities in the Modeling of Multiparameter Devices
Authors: Vinge Nygaard Jens
Published: October 2013

Modeling and simulation of medical devices are typically established to identify parameter dependencies within the system of interest. Most devices are multiphysics problems considering solid and fluid mechanics, and electromagnetic mechanisms bridging time and length scales. Typically, the geometries of interest are described by complex morphologies of biological components. These factors all contribute to significant complexity of the developed numerical models. Access to imaging modalities capable of providing the geometrical information of relevance is central in the establishment and verification of numerical analysis. Here, data from image-based models obtained with MRI and μCT to risk access patients prone to realizing stroke, and to evaluate drug eluding scaffolds is presented.
The Design of an Improved Force Focused Angioplasty Catheter
Authors: Murphy Bruce P. , Breen Liam T.
Published: October 2013

Atherosclerosis is a disease that causes obstructions to develop within the arterial system; these obstructions can result in an acute vascular event such as a heart attack or stroke, and potentially death. In the majority of cases a standard angioplasty balloon is sufficient to dilate the site of an obstruction; however difficult obstructions, such as heavily calcified lesions require specialist dilation solutions. One such example of a device is Boston Scientific's cutting balloon. An analysis of the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database demonstrates that the original cutting balloon has a number of distinct adverse events associated with it. In this study we describe the design, manufacturing, and testing of a new force focused angioplasty balloon that has the potential to reduce or eliminate the adverse events associated with the Boston Scientific cutting balloon. This design incorporates two elastomeric materials to aid recoiling of the device namely: nitinol and a silicone elastomer. New methods of manufacturing are described in this study, that ensure that precision molding and assembly can occur. To determine the effectiveness of our device, we simulated concentric calcified lesions with a surrogate chalk model. These results demonstrate that our device has a significantly lower lesion burst pressure in comparison to a standard angioplasty balloon, 174 atm versus 12.48 atm. To determine if our device reduced potential snagging, and thus reduced the risk of withdrawal resistance being encountered, we performed a withdrawal resistance test. A noticeably lower withdrawal force is associated with our device, the high peaks on the Boston Scientific device indicate that there may be wings forming on the balloon and these are catching on the tip of the introducer sheath. Finally, we demonstrated in vivo efficacy of our device in a porcine model. By the use of elastomeric recoiling features in a new cutting balloon design we have been able to overcome the three main reported adverse events associated with the Boston Scientific cutting balloon. Subsequently we experimentally demonstrated this improved efficacy for one particular peripheral balloon size (e.g., 5 mm diameter).
The Use of Servo-Constraints in the Inverse Dynamics Analysis of Underactuated Multibody Systems
Authors: Blajer Wojciech
Published: October 2013

Underactuated mechanical systems have fewer control inputs than degrees of freedom. The specified in time outputs, equal in number to the number of inputs, lead to servo-constraints on the system. The servo-constraint problem is then a specific inverse simulation problem in which an input control strategy (feedforward control) that forces an underactuated system to complete the partly specified motion is determined. Since mechanical systems may be “underactuated” in several ways, and the control forces may be arbitrarily oriented with respect to the servo-constraint manifold, this is, in general, a challenging task. The use of servo-constraints in the inverse dynamics analysis of underactuated systems is discussed here with an emphasis on diverse possible ways of the constraint realization. A formulation of the servo-constraint problem in configuration coordinates is compared with a setting in which the actuated coordinates are replaced with the outputs. The governing equations can then be set either as ordinary differential equations (ODEs) or differential-algebraic equations (DAEs). The existence and nonexistence of an explicit solution to the servo-constraint problem is further discussed, related to so-called flat systems (with no internal dynamics) and nonflat systems (with internal dynamics). In case of nonflat systems, of paramount importance is stability of the internal dynamics. Simple case studies are reported to illustrate the discussion and formulations.
Convergence of G Protein–Coupled Receptor and S-Nitrosylation Signaling Determines the Outcome to Cardiac Ischemic Injury
Authors: Huang Z. Maggie , Gao Erhe , Fonseca Fabio Vasconcelos , Hayashi Hiroki , Shang Xiying , Hoffman Nicholas E. , Chuprun J. Kurt , Tian Xufan , Tilley Doug G. , Madesh Muniswamy , Lefer David J. , Stamler Jonathan S. , Koch Walter J.
Published: October 2013

S
-nitrosothiols protect against ischemic injury in the heart by limiting signaling downstream of G protein–coupled receptors.