bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coupling of myocardial stress resistance and signalling to voluntary activity and inactivity
Authors: Budiono B. P. , See Hoe L. E. , Brunt A. R. , Peart J. N. , Headrick J. P. , Haseler L. J.
Published: May 2016

Aims

We examined coupling of myocardial ischaemic tolerance to physical activity and inactivity, and whether this involves modulation of survival (AKT, AMPK, ERK1/2, HSP27, EGFR) and injury (GSK3β) proteins implicated in ischaemic preconditioning and calorie restriction.

Methods

Proteomic modifications were assessed in ventricular myocardium, and tolerance to 25‐min ischaemia in ex vivo perfused hearts from C57Bl/6 mice subjected to 14‐day voluntary activity in running‐naïve animals (Active); 7 days of subsequent inactivity (Inactive); brief (day 3) restoration of running (Re‐Active); or time‐matched inactivity.

Results

Active mice increased running speed and distance by 75–150% over 14 days (to ~40 m min−1 and 10 km day−1), with Active hearts resistant to post‐ischaemic dysfunction (40–50% improvements in ventricular pressure development, diastolic pressure and dP/dt). Cardioprotection was accompanied by ~twofold elevations in AKT, AMPK, HSP27 and GSK3β phosphorylation and EGFR expression. Ischaemic tolerance was reversed in Inactive hearts, paralleling reduced EGFR expression and GSK3β and ERK1/2 phosphorylation (AKT, AMPK, HSP27 phosphorylation unaltered). Running characteristics, ischaemic tolerance, EGFR expression and GSK3β phosphorylation returned to Active levels within 1–3 days of restored activity (without changes in AKT, AMPK or HSP27 phosphorylation). Transcriptional responses included activity‐dependent Anp induction vs. Hmox1 and Sirt3 suppression, and inactivity‐dependent Adora2b induction.

Conclusions

Data confirm the sensitive coupling of ischaemic tolerance to activity: voluntary running induces cardioprotection that dissipates within 1 week of inactivity yet recovers rapidly upon subsequent activity. While exercise in naïve animals induces a molecular profile characteristic of preconditioning/calorie restriction, only GSK3β and EGFR modulation consistently parallel activity‐ and inactivity‐dependent ischaemic tolerance.
Capsaicin induces browning of white adipose tissue and counters obesity by activating TRPV1 channel‐dependent mechanisms
Authors: Baskaran Padmamalini , Krishnan Vivek , Ren Jun , Thyagarajan Baskaran
Published: May 2016

Background and Purpose

The growing epidemic of obesity and metabolic diseases necessitates the development of novel strategies to prevent and treat such diseases. Current research suggests that browning of white adipose tissue (WAT) promotes energy expenditure to counter obesity. Recent research suggests that activation of the TRPV1 channels counters obesity. However, the mechanism by which activation of TRPV1 channels counters obesity still remains unclear.

Experimental Approach

We evaluated the effect of dietary capsaicin to induce a browning program in WAT by activating TRPV1 channels to prevent diet‐induced obesity using wild‐type and TRPV1−/− mouse models. We performed experiments using preadipocytes and fat pads from these mice.

Key Results

Capsaicin stimulated the expression of brown fat‐specific thermogenic uncoupling protein‐1 and bone morphogenetic protein‐8b in WAT. Capsaicin triggered browning of WAT by promoting sirtuin‐1 expression and activity via TRPV1 channel‐dependent elevation of intracellular Ca2+ and phosphorylation of Ca2+/calmodulin‐activated protein kinase II and AMP‐activated kinase. Capsaicin increased the expression of PPARγ 1 coactivator α and enhanced metabolic and ambulatory activity. Further, capsaicin stimulated sirtuin‐1‐dependent deacetylation of PPARγ and the transcription factor PRDM‐16 and facilitated PPARγ–PRDM‐16 interaction to induce browning of WAT. Dietary capsaicin did not protect TRPV1−/− mice from obesity.

Conclusions and Interpretations

Our results show for the first time that activation of TRPV1 channels by dietary capsaicin triggers browning of WAT to counteract obesity. Our results suggest that activation of TRPV1 channels is a promising strategy to counter obesity.
CD44 variant‐dependent redox status regulation in liver fluke‐associated cholangiocarcinoma: A target for cholangiocarcinoma treatment
Authors: Thanee Malinee , Loilome Watcharin , Techasen Anchalee , Sugihara Eiji , Okazaki Shogo , Abe Shinya , Ueda Shiho , Masuko Takashi , Namwat Nisana , Khuntikeo Narong , Titapun Attapol , Pairojkul Chawalit , Saya Hideyuki , Yongvanit Puangrat
Published: May 2016

Expression of CD44, especially the variant isoforms (CD44v) of this major cancer stem cell marker, contributes to reactive oxygen species (ROS) defense through stabilizing xCT (a cystine–glutamate transporter) and promoting glutathione synthesis. This enhances cancer development and increases chemotherapy resistance. We investigate the role of CD44v in the regulation of the ROS defense system in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). Immunohistochemical staining of CD44v and p38MAPK (a major ROS target) expression in Opisthorchis viverrini‐induced hamster CCA tissues (at 60, 90, 120, and 180 days) reveals a decreased phospho‐p38MAPK signal, whereas the CD44v signal was increased during bile duct transformation. Patients with CCA showed CD44v overexpression and negative‐phospho‐p38MAPK patients a significantly shorter survival rate than the low CD44v signal and positive‐phospho‐p38MAPK patients (P = 0.030). Knockdown of CD44 showed that xCT and glutathione levels were decreased, leading to a high level of ROS. We examined xCT‐targeted CD44v cancer stem cell therapy using sulfasalazine. Glutathione decreased and ROS increased after the treatment, leading to inhibition of cell proliferation and induction of cell death. Thus, the accumulation of CD44v leads to the suppression of p38MAPK in transforming bile duct cells. The redox status regulation of CCA cells depends on the expression of CD44v to contribute the xCT function and is a link to the poor prognosis of patients. Thus, an xCT inhibitor could inhibit cell growth and activate cell death. This suggests that an xCT‐targeting drug may improve CCA therapy by sensitization to the available drug (e.g. gemcitabine) by blocking the mechanism of the cell's ROS defensive system.
An Efficacy Trial of Carescapes: Home‐Based Child‐Care Practices and Children's Social Outcomes
Authors: Rusby Julie C. , Jones Laura B. , Crowley Ryann , Smolkowski Keith
Published: May 2016

This study reported findings from a longitudinal randomized controlled trial of Carescapes, a professional development program for home‐based child‐care providers in promoting children's social competence. Participants included 134 child‐care providers and 310 children, ages 3–5 years, in Oregon. The Carescapes intervention group made significant improvements in observed caregiver responsiveness and monitoring, and showed decreased caregiver‐reported child problem behavior and improved parent‐reported peer relationships compared to the control group. Increased caregiver‐reported cooperation skills were found for the intervention group at follow‐up. No differences in condition were found for kindergarten teacher‐reported social–behavioral, classroom, and academic skills. Moderation effects on children's behavior and peer relations were found for child age and exposure to the intervention child care.
Thyroid hormone and its metabolites in relation to quality of life in patients treated for differentiated thyroid cancer
Authors: Massolt E.T. , van der Windt M. , Korevaar T.I.M. , Kam B.L.R. , Burger J.W. , Franssen G.J.H. , Lehmphul I. , Köhrle J. , Visser W.E. , Peeters R.P.
Published: May 2016

Background

Levothyroxine (LT4) is the standard of care in patients with hypothyroidism. Despite this replacement therapy, quality of life (QoL) remains impaired in a substantial amount of patients. The reasons for this are still a matter of debate. Suggested causes include lack of endogenous T3 secretion by the thyroid, changes in other thyroid hormone metabolites and interference by autoimmune processes.

Objective

To investigate the association between thyroid function tests (TFTs) and QoL in patients with a history of differentiated thyroid cancer on LT4 monotherapy. These patients lack endogenous thyroidal T3 secretion in the absence of autoimmune disease.

Materials and Methods

This is a cross‐sectional study in 143 patients (69·2% female). Initial therapy consisted of total thyroidectomy followed by radioiodine ablation minimally one year before inclusion. We assessed health‐related QoL (RAND‐36), thyroid‐specific QoL (ThyPRO) and fatigue with the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory. Extensive TFTs were assessed, including 3,5‐diiodo‐L‐thyronine (3,5‐T2).

Results

Mean age was 50·2 years and mean time since diagnosis was 8·4 years. Median TSH was 0·042 mU/l, total T4 145·0 nmol/l, free T4 25·6 pmol/l, total T3 1·93 nmol/l, reverse T3 0·53 nmol/l and 3,5‐T2 0·86 nmol/l. Multiple linear regression analyses did not show any association between QoL and the different TFTs, including T4/T3 and 3,5‐T2/T3 ratios reflecting peripheral metabolism.

Conclusion

We did not find any association between TFTs and QoL in athyreotic patients on LT4 monotherapy. Our data do not provide evidence that a slight increase in dose improves fatigue or well‐being in hypothyroid patients on LT4 therapy.
Survival and tissue maintenance of an implant with a sloped configurated shoulder in the posterior mandible—a prospective multicenter study
Authors: Schiegnitz E. , Noelken R. , Moergel M. , Berres M. , Wagner W.
Published: May 2016

Aim

Clinical studies evaluating the influence of the implant design on the preservation of peri‐implant keratinized mucosa are rare. The aim of this prospective multicenter study was to investigate the survival, and soft and hard tissue maintenance of an implant with a sloped shoulder configuration, when placed in the posterior mandible.

Material and Methods

In this study, 24 centers participated and 184 patients receiving 238 implants (OsseoSpeed™ Profile TX implants) were included. Clinical assessments of soft tissue parameters were performed before implant placement, immediately after implant placement, at prosthetic delivery and at 6, 12 and 24 months after implant placement and marginal bone adaptation was examined.

Results

After an average time in situ of 28.7 ± 4.7 months (2.4 ± 0.4 years), the survival rate was 99.2%. Analysis of the peri‐implant soft tissues during follow‐up showed a slight but significant increase in peri‐implant keratinized mucosa width after 2 years (P < 0.001). All patients with reduced peri‐implant keratinized mucosa width of ≤ 2 mm at postoperative examination (n = 95) showed a pronounced and statistically significant increase in the peri‐implant keratinized mucosa width over time (P < 0.001). After a mean follow‐up of 20.7 ± 8 months (1.7 ± 0.7 years), mean inter‐proximal marginal bone loss was 0.30 ± 0.6 mm, indicating high bone stability around the sloped implant neck.

Conclusion

These results indicate that sloped configurated implants have a high survival rate after 2 years in function. The sloped implant shoulder configuration helps to support the hard and soft tissue around the implant neck and supports the regain of a physiological peri‐implant keratinized mucosa in patients with compromised peri‐implant soft tissue conditions (Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01400321).
Prospective, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial evaluating the efficacy and safety of propofol sedation by anesthesiologists and gastroenterologist‐led teams using computer‐assisted personalized sedation during upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopy
Authors: Kashiwagi Kazuhiro , Hosoe Naoki , Takahashi Keiji , Nishino Haruo , Miyachi Hideyuki , Kudo Shin‐ei , Martin James F. , Ogata Haruhiko
Published: May 2016

Background and Aim

No randomized controlled studies comparing propofol versus no sedation have been reported. Comparative data demonstrating the efficacy and safety of propofol sedation by anesthesiologists (ANES), and gastroenterologist‐led teams (GLT) using computer‐assisted personalized sedation (CAPS), during routine gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy in Japan do not exist. We aimed to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of propofol sedation versus no sedation (PLCB) when propofol is given by ANES or GLT, during routine GI endoscopy.

Methods

Two hundred and seventy two American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class I or II adults were prospectively enrolled in this multicenter study and randomized into three groups (PLCB, ANES, GLT). Ability to maintain moderate sedation, defined as MOAA/S scores of 2–4 for ≥50% of all MOAA/S measurements from scope‐in to scope‐out, was the primary endpoint. Secondary endpoints included patient (PSSI) and clinician (CSSI) satisfaction.

Results

Proportion of subjects maintained in moderate sedation by ANES (88.1%) and GLT (94.5%) was significantly higher than PLCB (21.6%; P < 0.001); there was no difference between the ANES and GLT groups (P = 0.116). Mean PSSI scores for subjects sedated by ANES (81.2 ± 12.5) and GLT (80.8 ± 14.1) were significantly higher than PLCB (65.3 ± 19.7; P < 0.001) and mean CSSI scores were also significantly higher in both active treatment groups (75.5 ± 10.2, 77.9 ± 10.3) than PLCB (60.8 ± 18.6; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Moderate sedation can be achieved and maintained with propofol, improving both patient and physician satisfaction, when propofol is given by an anesthesiologist or a gastroenterologist‐led team using CAPS.
Congenital disorders of glycosylation presenting as epileptic encephalopathy with migrating partial seizures in infancy
Authors: Barba Carmen , Darra Francesca , Cusmai Raffaella , Procopio Elena , Dionisi Vici Carlo , Keldermans Liesbeth , Vuillaumier‐Barrot Sandrine , Lefeber Dirk J , Guerrini Renzo ,   CDG Group
Published: May 2016

Aim

Epilepsy is commonly observed in congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG), but no distinctive electroclinical pattern has been recognized. We aimed at identifying a characteristic clinical presentation that might help targeted diagnostic work‐up.

Method

Based on the initial observation of an index case with CDG and migrating partial seizures, we evaluated 16 additional children with CDG and analysed their clinical course, biochemical, genetic, electrographic, and imaging findings.

Results

Four of 17 consecutively observed children with CDG (three females, one male) were first referred between the first and fourth month of life, after early onset of migrating partial seizures. All four patients manifested developmental delay, microcephaly, and multi‐organ involvement. Magnetic resonance imaging disclosed cerebral and cerebellar atrophy. Isoelectrofocusing of transferrin, enzymatic studies, and lipid‐linked oligosaccharide analysis indicated CDG‐I. Genetic testing demonstrated either homozygous or compound heterozygous variants involving the ALG3 gene in patients 1 and 3, the RFT1 gene in patient 2, and the ALG1 gene in patient 4. At last follow‐up, patients 1 and 2 were 5 and 31/2 years old. Patients 3 and 4 had died due to respiratory failure during pneumonia and refractory status epilepticus respectively.

Interpretation

Children with migrating partial seizures and concomitant multisystem involvement should be investigated for CDG.
Effects of lorcaserin on fat and lean mass loss in obese and overweight patients without and with type 2 diabetes mellitus: the BLOSSOM and BLOOM‐DM studies
Authors: Apovian C. , Palmer K. , Fain R. , Perdomo C. , Rubino D.
Published: May 2016

Body composition was determined using dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) in a subset of patients without (BLOSSOM) and with (BLOOM‐DM) type 2 diabetes who received diet and exercise counselling along with either lorcaserin 10 mg twice daily or placebo. DXA scans were performed on study day 1 (baseline), week 24 and week 52. Baseline demographics of the subpopulations (without diabetes, n = 189; with diabetes, n = 63) were similar between studies and representative of their study populations. At week 52, patients without diabetes on lorcaserin lost significantly more fat mass relative to those on placebo (−12.06% vs −5.93%; p = 0.008). In patients with diabetes, fat mass was also decreased with lorcaserin relative to placebo (−9.87% vs −1.65%; p < 0.05). More fat mass was lost in the trunk region with lorcaserin compared with placebo (without diabetes: −3.31% vs −2.05%; with diabetes: −3.65% vs −0.36%). Weight loss with lorcaserin was associated with a greater degree of fat mass loss than lean mass loss, and most of the fat mass lost for patients without and with diabetes was from the central region of the body.
Early‐Stage Loeffler's Endocarditis with Isolated Right Ventricular Involvement: Management, Long‐Term Follow‐Up, and Review of Literature
Authors: Beedupalli Jagan , Modi Kalgi
Published: May 2016

Loeffler's endocarditis is a clinical condition characterized by combination of three key findings: unexplained prolonged and marked eosinophilia (>1500 eosinophils/mm3), absence of a primary cause of hypereosinophilia, and evidence of eosinophil‐mediated organ damage. We report a case of a 55‐year‐old African American male with symptoms of heart failure. Hematology showed white blood cell count of 17 670/mm3 with 63% eosinophils and an absolute eosinophil count of 11 133/mm3. Echocardiogram and computed tomography showed near complete obliteration of right ventricular cavity. Endomyocardial biopsy showed diffuse myocyte necrosis with extensive eosinophilic infiltration without fibrosis consistent with early Loeffler's endocarditis. Molecular and cytogenetic analyses of bone marrow cells were negative for FIP1L1‐PDGFRA fusion, PDGFRB mutation, abnormal myeloid maturation, or a lymphoproliferative disorder. Flow cytometry showed no clonality excluding chronic eosinophilic leukemia. There was a complete resolution of symptoms and eosinophilia after 1 month of steroid therapy.
Kainic acid–induced albumin leak across the blood–brain barrier facilitates epileptiform hyperexcitability in limbic regions
Authors: Noé Francesco M. , Bellistri Elisa , Colciaghi Francesca , Cipelletti Barbara , Battaglia Giorgio , de Curtis Marco , Librizzi Laura
Published: May 2016

Objective

Systemic administration of kainic acid (KA) is a widely used procedure utilized to develop a model of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). Despite its ability to induce status epilepticus (SE) in vivo, KA applied to in vitro preparations induces only interictal‐like activity and/or isolated ictal discharges. The possibility that extravasation of the serum protein albumin from the vascular compartment enhances KA‐induced brain excitability is investigated here.

Methods

Epileptiform activity was induced by arterial perfusion of 6 μm KA in the in vitro isolated guinea pig brain preparation. Simultaneous field potential recordings were carried out bilaterally from limbic (CA1, dentate gyrus [DG], and entorhinal cortex) and extralimbic regions (piriform cortex and neocortex). Blood–brain barrier (BBB) breakdown associated with KA‐induced epileptiform activity was assessed by parenchymal leakage of intravascular fluorescein‐isothiocyanate albumin. Seizure‐induced brain inflammation was evaluated by western blot analysis of interleukin (IL)‐1β expression in brain tissue.

Results

KA infusion caused synchronized activity at 15–30 Hz in limbic (but not extralimbic) cortical areas, associated with a brief, single seizure‐like event. A second bolus of KA, 60 min after the induction of the first ictal event, did not further enhance excitability. Perfusion of serum albumin between the two administrations of KA enhanced epileptiform discharges and allowed a recurrent ictal event during the second KA infusion.

Significance

Our data show that arterial KA administration selectively alters the synchronization of limbic networks. However, KA is not sufficient to generate recurrent seizures unless serum albumin is co‐perfused during KA administration. These findings suggest a role of serum albumin in facilitating acute seizure generation.
Different parvalbumin and GABA expression in human epileptogenic focal cortical dysplasia
Authors: Medici Valentina , Rossini Laura , Deleo Francesco , Tringali Giovanni , Tassi Laura , Cardinale Francesco , Bramerio Manuela , de Curtis Marco , Garbelli Rita , Spreafico Roberto
Published: May 2016

Objective

Several studies have reported that inhibitory networks are altered in dysplastic tissue obtained from epilepsy surgery specimens. A consistent decrease in the number of inhibitory interneuronal subpopulation that expresses parvalbumin (PV) was reported in postsurgical tissue from patients with focal cortical dysplasia (FCD). We tested if the decrease in PV protein expression observed in epileptic tissue corresponds to a parallel impairment in the γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic compartment.

Methods

We analyzed postsurgical tissue from 30 surgically treated patients who underwent surgery for intractable epilepsy including 26 patients with FCD (types I, II, and III) and 4 patients without any microscopic visible lesion (cryptogenic) as controls. Serial sections were processed using in situ hybridization with GAD‐65 and GAD‐67 probes and immunocytochemistry with antibody against PV. The density of inhibitory PV‐immunoreactive interneurons in relation to GABAergic cells was estimated in controls and in all different pathologic groups by using a two‐ and three‐dimensional (2D and 3D) cell‐counting technique. Field fraction and line profile analyses were added to estimate immunostaining proportion and distribution of PV signal generated in gray matter.

Results

A reduction of PV‐positive cells and PV‐immunoreactivity was observed exclusively in FCD type I/III specimens compared with cryptogenic tissue from control patients with a poor postsurgical outcome. In FCD type II, a profound rearrangement in the cortical distribution of PV immunoreactivity was observed, without a quantitative reduction of the number of neurons and terminals. In situ hybridization did not reveal significant variations of GAD expression in any FCD subtype.

Significance

Our study suggests a preservation of inhibitory networks in FCD postsurgical tissue, demonstrated by a substantial normal count of GABAergic neurons. A selective PV expression impairment is demonstrated in FCD type I and III and an abnormal, but not reduced, distribution of PV cells and terminals is confirmed in type II FCD. Possible functional consequences are discussed.
Commuting Flows and Labour Market Structure: Modelling Journey to Work Behaviour in an Urban Environment
Authors: Watkins Andrew R.
Published: May 2016

Using a probabilistic model of urban commuting based on job accessibility, commuting patterns are analysed for the inner and outer parts of Melbourne in 2001 and 2006. Variations in commuting behaviour between different parts of the city and different time periods can be largely ascribed to changes in urban densities, while variations between industries appear to be influenced by a complex mixture of factors, chief among them the role of industry wages and salaries in determining housing choice, and the level of job market specialisation. The implications for urban planning are discussed.
Rejecting Beliefs, or Rejecting Believers? On the Importance and Exclusion of Women in Philosophy
Authors: Holtzman Geoffrey S.
Published: May 2016

Why has gender equality progressed so much more slowly in philosophy than in other academic disciplines? Here, I address both factual and theoretical matters relating to the causes, effects, and potential redress of the lack of women in philosophy. First, I debunk extant claims that women are more likely than men to disagree with their philosophy professors and male peers; that women are more sensitive to disagreements in the philosophy classroom than men are; and that the gender imbalance in philosophy is no worse than in many cognate disciplines. Second, I discuss ways in which the nature of philosophical inquiry and debate may provide uniquely strong opportunities for person‐perception to hinder progress toward egalitarian treatment of interlocutors. And third, I argue that a diversity of perspectives in philosophy is essential not only for reasons of social justice, but also for philosophical progress. Efforts to improve philosophy should therefore countenance the role of person‐perception in the practice of philosophical debate. For philosophy to become more diverse, the steps the profession takes to achieve that goal will have to go beyond—and not merely match—the steps taken to increase the numbers of women and otherwise underrepresented individuals in other fields.
Training for innovation: capacity‐building in agricultural research in post‐war Sierra Leone
Authors: Gboku Matthew L. S. , Bebeley Jenneh F.
Published: May 2016

This paper examines how the Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute (SLARI) used training and development to build capacity for innovation in agricultural research following the country's civil war which ended in 2002. The Institute's training for innovation addressed different agricultural product value chains (APVCs) within the framework of the Integrated Agricultural Research for Development approach, which recognizes the need for collective action by involving a broad range of stakeholders and multiple knowledge sources that can be used to address complex development challenges along the value chains. In this context, the SLARI conducted a diagnostic audit, which concluded with recommendations for capacity building of staff in both the short and long term. Over the 5 years of implementation of its capacity building plan, the Institute has trained staff at all levels including research scientists, senior support staff, lab technicians, field supervisors and farmers for various responsibilities along the APVCs within the Institute's mandate.
Lower calyceal and renal pelvic stones in preschool children: A comparative study of mini‐percutaneous nephrolithotomy versus extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy
Authors: ElSheemy Mohammed S , Daw Kareem , Habib Enmar , Aboulela Waseem , Fathy Hesham , Shouman Ahmed M , El Ghoneimy Mohamed , Shoukry Ahmed I , Morsi Hany A , Badawy Hesham
Published: May 2016

Objectives

To compare outcomes of the mini‐percutaneous nephrolithotripsy technique and extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy for lower calyceal and renal pelvic stones in preschool children.

Methods

From January 2010 to December 2014, single renal pelvic or lower calyceal calculi 10–25 mm in size in children (age ≤6 years) treated by either extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (64 patients) or the mini‐percutaneous nephrolithotripsy technique (54 patients) were included. Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy was carried out by using a Dornier electromagnetic lithotripter. The mini‐percutaneous nephrolithotripsy technique was through 14‐Fr renal access using a 9.5‐Fr semirigid ureteroscope with holmium:yttrium aluminium garnet lithotripsy. The two study groups were compared using Mann–Whitney, χ2‐test or Fisher's exact test.

Results

Stone parameters were similar in the mini‐percutaneous nephrolithotripsy technique and extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy groups in all patients, and in the pelvic (39 Miniperc, 52 extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy) and lower calyceal (15 Miniperc, 12 extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy) subgroups. Stone‐free rates in the mini‐percutaneous nephrolithotripsy technique and extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy groups were 88.9% versus 43.8% (P < 0.001) and 94.4% versus 81.2% (P = 0.032) after first and last sessions, respectively. In the renal pelvis, they were 87.2% versus 50% (P < 0.001) and 94.9% versus 84.6% (P = 0.179), whereas in the lower calyx, they were 93.3% versus 16.7% (P < 0.001) and 93.3% versus 66.7% (P = 0.139) after first and last sessions, respectively. Retreatment rates in the mini‐percutaneous nephrolithotripsy technique versus extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy were 7.4% versus 50% (P < 0.001), 7.7% versus 46.2% (P < 0.001), and 6.7% versus 66.7% (P = 0.003) in all patients, renal pelvic and lower calyceal stones, respectively. No significant difference was found in complications (P = 0.521). Auxiliary procedures were required in 9.4% and 1.9% of children in the extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy and mini‐percutaneous nephrolithotripsy technique groups, respectively.

Conclusions

The mini‐percutaneous nephrolithotripsy technique has significantly higher stone‐free rates than extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy for renal pelvic and lower calyceal stones (10–25 mm), with a lower retreatment rate and without a significant increase in complications.
Microtexture of c‐Axis‐Oriented Polycrystalline Lanthanum Silicate Oxyapatite Formed by Reactive Diffusion
Authors: Fukuda Koichiro , Okabe Momoko , Asaka Toru
Published: May 2016

We annealed the La2SiO5/La2Si2O7 diffusion couple at 1873 K for 25 h to prepare the grain‐oriented lanthanum silicate oxyapatite (LSO) polycrystal at the interfacial contact boundary. The polycrystalline LSO was characterized using optical microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and X‐ray diffractometry (XRD). The external shape line information on individual crystal grains were extracted from the backscattered electron image on the section surface of the polycrystal. We collected the electron backscatter diffraction patterns and XRD patterns to determine, respectively, the crystallographic orientations of individual grains and orientation degrees of the LSO polycrystal. The reaction area was in the form of a layer parallel to the original contact boundary, and consequently categorized, based on the differences in grain size distribution and orientation degree, into three distinct regions. The innermost region with the layer thickness of 30 μm was composed mainly of the rounded and relatively small crystal grains with the size less than ~16 μm in diameter. Furthermore, this region showed the lowest orientation degree among the three regions. On the other hand, the LSO grains on both sides of this region were much larger in size and prismatic in morphology; the LSO crystals were elongated along the c‐axis, and built up of faces {001}, {304}, and {100}. The individual crystal grains were aligned almost along their c‐axes, with their a‐axis directions being randomly distributed around the common c‐axis. The differences in microtexture among the three regions would be induced by the distinct growth behaviors of LSO crystals.
Stock Liquidity Risk and the Cross‐sectional Earnings‐Returns Relationship
Authors: Isshaq Zangina , Faff Robert
Published: May 2016

We argue that a higher sensitivity to aggregate market‐wide liquidity shocks (i.e., a higher liquidity risk) implies a tendency for a stock's price to converge to fundamentals. We test this intuition within the framework of the earnings‐returns relationship. We find a positive liquidity risk effect on the relationship between return and expected change in earnings. This effect on the earnings‐returns relationship is distinct from the negative effect observed for stock illiquidity level. Notably, the liquidity risk effect is evident (absent) during periods of neutral/low (high) aggregate market liquidity. We also show that the liquidity risk effect is dominant in firms that: (a) are of intermediate size; (b) are of intermediate book‐to‐market; and (c) are profit making.
Differential diagnosis of Spitzoid melanocytic neoplasms
Authors: Stefanaki C. , Stefanaki K. , Chardalias L. , Soura E. , Stratigos A.
Published: May 2016

Atypical Spitzoid neoplasms represent a controversial and incompletely defined diagnostic category for lesions with intermediate architecture and cytomorphology between Spitz nevus and melanoma. The vast majority of these neoplasms have a good overall prognosis. Only a small proportion of patients will end up developing distant metastases and death. The distinction between Spitz tumours with atypical features and Spitzoid melanoma remains difficult on clinical and histological grounds and the prediction of the biological behaviour of those tumours even with sentinel lymph node biopsy is impossible. Tools such as immunohistochemistry, genetic analysis, mutation analysis and mass spectometry have contributed to the better understanding of those tumours and may be useful in the differential diagnosis of Spitzoid tumours.
Effects of Elevated Temperature on the Shell Density of the Large Benthic Foraminifera Amphistegina lobifera
Authors: Prazeres Martina , Pandolfi John M.
Published: May 2016

This study investigated the effects of elevated temperature on shell density and Mg‐ATPase activity of Amphistegina lobifera. This species is abundant in shallow reef habitats, and can be vulnerable to daily physicochemical fluctuations. To assess potential responses and acclimation mechanisms of A. lobifera to changing temperature conditions, we performed a blocked‐design experiment exposing specimens collected from different reef sites (inshore and offshore) to three temperature treatments (Control: 24 °C, + 2 °C: 26 °C and + 5 °C: 29 °C) for 30 days. The final size and shell density of inshore reef foraminifera were unaffected by elevated temperature, and the enzyme activity in these individuals showed that they were able to acclimate to new temperature conditions. In contrast, offshore A. lobifera were more sensitive to changes in temperature, and heat stress caused growth impairment and inhibited Mg‐ATPase activity. However, newly added chambers were not affected. These results suggested that Mg‐ATPase plays an important role in regulating intracellular Mg2+ ions, but has little influence in the onset of calcification in A. lobifera. Moreover, it suggests that even though A. lobifera can regulate intracellular functions, local habitat seems to play a crucial role in determining how foraminifera respond to environmental changes.
Potential distribution of the viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus in the Great Lakes region
Authors: Escobar L E , Kurath G , Escobar‐Dodero J , Craft M E , Phelps N B D
Published: May 2016

Viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus (VHSV) genotype IVb has been responsible for large‐scale fish mortality events in the Great Lakes of North America. Anticipating the areas of potential VHSV occurrence is key to designing epidemiological surveillance and disease prevention strategies in the Great Lakes basin. We explored the environmental features that could shape the distribution of VHSV, based on remote sensing and climate data via ecological niche modelling. Variables included temperature measured during the day and night, precipitation, vegetation, bathymetry, solar radiation and topographic wetness. VHSV occurrences were obtained from available reports of virus confirmation in laboratory facilities. We fit a Maxent model using VHSV‐IVb reports and environmental variables under different parameterizations to identify the best model to determine potential VHSV occurrence based on environmental suitability. VHSV reports were generated from both passive and active surveillance. VHSV occurrences were most abundant near shore sites. We were, however, able to capture the environmental signature of VHSV based on the environmental variables employed in our model, allowing us to identify patterns of VHSV potential occurrence. Our findings suggest that VHSV is not at an ecological equilibrium and more areas could be affected, including areas not in close geographic proximity to past VHSV reports.
Microwave Blanching: An Emerging Trend in Food Engineering and its Effects on Capsicum annuum L
Authors: Ranjan Shivendu , Dasgupta Nandita , Walia Niharika , Thara Chand C. , Ramalingam Chidambaram
Published: May 2016

Blanching is the most widely used processing techniques that increases the shelf life of fruits, vegetables and canned food. It softens the fruits and vegetables, aids in peeling and is vital to the canning process. This review elucidates the pros and cons of blanching – both wet and dry – on food products, with a special reference to bell peppers. Agricultural products with high nutritional value and substantial market demand need to be preserved to retain freshness and nutritional qualities till it reaches the processing industry or the consumer. In this review, we described the various attributes of the wet and dry blanching processes with the aim of providing a guide for the reader to design a blanching technique that may maximize the retention of nutrients, micronutrients and volatiles while minimizing the retention of enzymes that cause degradation of fruits and vegetables.

Practical Applications

This study shows that microwave blanching of food products is far better approach than other blanching methods as it causes minimal/lesser damage unlike IR blanching and wet blanching methods. This can be said based on the fact that microwave blanching does not involve water as required in the process of wet blanching and, thus, reduces the chances of microbial contamination. The results found in this study can be applied in the development of an optimized blanching approach as to minimize the retention of enzymes that causes degradation and to maximize the retention of nutrients, micronutrients and volatiles.
Economic burden and health‐related quality of life associated with Prader–Willi syndrome in France
Authors: Chevreul K. , Berg Brigham K. , Clément M.‐C. , Poitou C. , Tauber M. ,   Members of the BURQOL‐RD Research Network listed in the Online Appendix
Published: May 2016

Background

To date, there has been no published comprehensive estimation of costs related to Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS). Our objective was therefore to provide data on the economic burden and health‐related quality of life associated with PWS in France in order to raise awareness of the repercussions on individuals suffering from this syndrome and on caregivers as well as on the health and social care systems.

Method

A retrospective cross‐sectional study was carried out on 51 individuals recruited through the French PWS patient association. Data on their demographic characteristics and resource use were obtained from an online questionnaire, and costs were estimated by a bottom‐up approach. The EQ‐5D‐5L health questionnaire was used to measure the health‐related quality of life of individuals suffering from PWS and their caregivers.

Results

The average annual cost of PWS was estimated at €58 890 per individual, with direct healthcare accounting for €42 299, direct non‐healthcare formal costs €13 865 and direct non‐healthcare informal costs €8459. The main contributors to PWS costs were hospitalisations and social services. Indirect costs resulting from loss of productivity in the labour market was €32 542 for adults suffering from PWS. Mean EQ‐5D utility scores were 0.4 for individuals with PWS and 0.7 for caregivers.

Conclusions

Prader–Willi syndrome represents a major economic burden from a societal perspective and has a significant impact on health‐related quality of life both for individuals suffering from PWS and for their caregivers in France. These results underscore the need to develop tailored policies targeted at improving care. Likewise, a larger study collecting a broader range of medical characteristics should be undertaken to achieve more precise estimations.
Muscle moment arms and sensitivity analysis of a mouse hindlimb musculoskeletal model
Authors: Charles James P. , Cappellari Ornella , Spence Andrew J. , Wells Dominic J. , Hutchinson John R.
Published: May 2016

Musculoskeletal modelling has become a valuable tool with which to understand how neural, muscular, skeletal and other tissues are integrated to produce movement. Most musculoskeletal modelling work has to date focused on humans or their close relatives, with few examples of quadrupedal animal limb models. A musculoskeletal model of the mouse hindlimb could have broad utility for questions in medicine, genetics, locomotion and neuroscience. This is due to this species’ position as a premier model of human disease, having an array of genetic tools for manipulation of the animal in vivo, and being a small quadruped, a category for which few models exist. Here, the methods used to develop the first three‐dimensional (3D) model of a mouse hindlimb and pelvis are described. The model, which represents bones, joints and 39 musculotendon units, was created through a combination of previously gathered muscle architecture data from microdissections, contrast‐enhanced micro‐computed tomography (CT) scanning and digital segmentation. The model allowed muscle moment arms as well as muscle forces to be estimated for each musculotendon unit throughout a range of joint rotations. Moment arm analysis supported the reliability of musculotendon unit placement within the model, and comparison to a previously published rat hindlimb model further supported the model's reliability. A sensitivity analysis performed on both the force‐generating parameters and muscle's attachment points of the model indicated that the maximal isometric muscle moment is generally most sensitive to changes in either tendon slack length or the coordinates of insertion, although the degree to which the moment is affected depends on several factors. This model represents the first step in the creation of a fully dynamic 3D computer model of the mouse hindlimb and pelvis that has application to neuromuscular disease, comparative biomechanics and the neuromechanical basis of movement. Capturing the morphology and dynamics of the limb, it enables future dissection of the complex interactions between the nervous and musculoskeletal systems as well as the environment.
Presidential Address: Debt and Money: Financial Constraints and Sovereign Finance
Authors: BOLTON PATRICK
Published: May 2016

Economic analyses of corporate finance, money, and sovereign debt are largely considered separately. I introduce a novel corporate finance framing of sovereign finance based on the analogy between fiat liabilities for sovereigns and equity for corporations. The analysis focuses on financial constraints at the country level, making explicit the trade‐offs involved in relying on domestic versus foreign‐currency debt to finance investments or government expenditures. This framing provides new insights into issues ranging from the costs and benefits of inflation, optimal foreign exchange reserves, and sovereign debt restructuring.
Quantitative Analysis Using High‐Resolution 3T MRI in Acute Intracranial Artery Dissection
Authors: Jung Seung Chai , Kim Ho Sung , Choi Choong‐Gon , Kim Sang Joon , Lee Deok Hee , Suh Dae Chul , Kwon Sun U. , Kang Dong‐Wha , Kim Jong S.
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Quantitative measurements, as well as qualitative characterizations, of the vessel walls of the small intracranial arteries became clinically available and reliable beyond the resolution limit of 1.5 T high‐resolution magnetic resonance imaging (HR‐MRI) with the development of 3 T HR‐MRI. We present the quantitative dissection findings of spontaneous and unruptured acute intracranial artery dissection (SID) using 3 T HR‐MRI and investigate the differences between each cerebral artery.

METHODS

Twenty‐eight lesions (anterior cerebral artery = 6; middle cerebral artery = 4; vertebral artery = 18) from 26 patients (17 male and 9 female patients; mean age = 47 years; age range = 32–74 years) with presumptive diagnoses of SID were included. The diagnosis was determined based on the clinical features, findings on luminal angiography (such as digital subtraction angiography, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance angiography), and HR‐MRI. HR‐MRI was performed within one month from onset. The neuroimaging indices (maximal outer diameter and area, remodeling index and modified remodeling index, and wall thickness and wall area index) of aneurysmal dilatation and the signal intensities of the intramural hematomas were rated using HR‐MRI. The results were compared between each cerebral artery.

RESULTS

The maximal outer diameter and area, remodeling index and modified remodeling index, and wall thickness index and length were significantly different between anterior and posterior circulation (P < .05). The mean relative signal intensities of the intramural hematoma showed consistent values, regardless of the cerebral arteries, without significant difference.

CONCLUSIONS

Neuroimaging indices of aneurysmal dilatation may be adjunctive indicators in the evaluation of SID.
Parenting matters: a longitudinal study into parenting and adolescent sleep
Authors: Meijer Anne Marie , Reitz Ellen , Dekoviċ Maja
Published: May 2016

The current three‐wave longitudinal study examined the differential relations between general parenting behaviour (monitoring, autonomy granting, and the quality of the parent–adolescent relationship) and adolescent sleep (bedtimes, time in bed, sleep quality and sleepiness) over a period of 2 years. At Time 1, the sample consisted of 650 adolescents between 12 and 15 years old (M = 13.36 years; SD = 0.55 years). At Time 2, 563 adolescents participated, and at Time 3 there were 493 adolescents. The distribution of boys and girls was about equal. Adolescents completed questionnaires in the classroom. Linear mixed model analyses were performed, controlling for sex, age, social economic status and ethnicity. Results showed that higher levels of monitoring contributed to earlier bedtimes, longer time in bed, better sleep quality and less sleepiness. The parent–adolescent relationship quality showed positive associations with time in bed, sleep quality and sleepiness, but not with bedtimes. Autonomy granting appeared hardly to be related to any of the sleep variables. In addition, passing of time, sex and ethnicity contributed to adolescent sleep as main effects or in interaction with parental control and support, suggesting that the main effects of monitoring and the quality of the parent–adolescent relationship are not constant across the whole range of the covariates. Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that general parenting behaviour may contribute to better adolescent sleep over time. Therefore, the involvement of parents in improvement of adolescent sleep is highly advocated.
Reevaluating geographic variation in life‐history traits of a widespread Nearctic amphibian
Authors: Davenport J. M. , Hossack B. R.
Published: May 2016

Animals from cold environments are usually larger than animals from warm environments, which often produce clines in body size. Because variation in body size can lead to trade‐offs between growth and reproduction, life‐history traits should also vary across climatic gradients. To determine if life‐history traits of wood frogs Rana sylvatica vary with climate, we examined female and male body length, clutch size, and ovum size from 37 locations across an unprecedented 32° of latitude. In conflict with recent research, body size, and ovum size decreased in cold climates and at higher latitudes. Clutch size did not vary with climate or latitude, but reproductive effort (clutch size:female size) did, suggesting selection for a life‐history traits that favors maximizing propagule number over propagule size in cold climates. With accelerating climate change that will expose populations to novel environmental conditions, it is important to identify the limits of adaptation, which can be informed by greater understanding of variation in life‐history traits.