bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasonic vocalizations of adult male Foxp2‐mutant mice: behavioral contexts of arousal and emotion
Authors: Gaub S. , Fisher S. E. , Ehret G.
Published: November 2015

Adult mouse ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) occur in multiple behavioral and stimulus contexts associated with various levels of arousal, emotion and social interaction. Here, in three experiments of increasing stimulus intensity (water; female urine; male interacting with adult female), we tested the hypothesis that USVs of adult males express the strength of arousal and emotion via different USV parameters (18 parameters analyzed). Furthermore, we analyzed two mouse lines with heterozygous Foxp2 mutations (R552H missense, S321X nonsense), known to produce severe speech and language disorders in humans. These experiments allowed us to test whether intact Foxp2 function is necessary for developing full adult USV repertoires, and whether mutations of this gene influence instinctive vocal expressions based on arousal and emotion. The results suggest that USV calling rate characterizes the arousal level, while sound pressure and spectrotemporal call complexity (overtones/harmonics, type of frequency jumps) may provide indices of levels of positive emotion. The presence of Foxp2 mutations did not qualitatively affect the USVs; all USV types that were found in wild‐type animals also occurred in heterozygous mutants. However, mice with Foxp2 mutations displayed quantitative differences in USVs as compared to wild‐types, and these changes were context dependent. Compared to wild‐type animals, heterozygous mutants emitted mainly longer and louder USVs at higher minimum frequencies with a higher occurrence rate of overtones/harmonics and complex frequency jump types. We discuss possible hypotheses about Foxp2 influence on emotional vocal expressions, which can be investigated in future experiments using selective knockdown of Foxp2 in specific brain circuits.
Brain regions and molecular pathways responding to food reward type and value in honey bees
Authors: McNeill M. S. , Kapheim K. M. , Brockmann A. , McGill T. A. W. , Robinson G. E.
Published: November 2015

The ability of honey bees to evaluate differences in food type and value is crucial for colony success, but these assessments are made by individuals who bring food to the hive, eating little, if any, of it themselves. We tested the hypothesis that responses to food type (pollen or nectar) and value involve different subsets of brain regions, and genes responsive to food. mRNA in situ hybridization of c‐jun revealed that brain regions responsive to differences in food type were mostly different from regions responsive to differences in food value, except those dorsal and lateral to the mushroom body calyces, which responded to all three. Transcriptomic profiles of the mushroom bodies generated by RNA sequencing gave the following results: (1) responses to differences in food type or value included a subset of molecular pathways involved in the response to food reward; (2) genes responsive to food reward, food type and food value were enriched for (the Gene Ontology categories) mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum activity; (3) genes responsive to only food and food type were enriched for regulation of transcription and translation; and (4) genes responsive to only food and food value were enriched for regulation of neuronal signaling. These results reveal how activities necessary for colony survival are channeled through the reward system of individual honey bees.
Climate is an important driver for stream diatom distributions
Authors: Pajunen Virpi , Luoto Miska , Soininen Janne
Published: November 2015

Aim

The species distributions of macroorganisms are widely studied, yet microbial distributions at species level remain poorly resolved. We explored the relative contributions of climatic and local environmental factors in explaining the distribution patterns of unicellular diatoms.

Location

A geographical gradient of c. 1200 km in Finland (60°–70° N).

Methods

We modelled the distributions of 157 diatom taxa sampled in 227 stream sites using climatic and local environmental predictors with four different modelling techniques: generalized linear models, generalized additive models, boosted regression trees and Random Forest. We used models with three separate sets of predictors: environment only, climate only and the full set of predictors. The model performances were evaluated using the area under the curve of a receiver operating characteristic plot and the true skill statistic values by a four‐fold cross‐validation approach.

Results

We found that the predictive performance of the full models was highest, indicating the importance of both the local environment and large‐scale climatic factors in diatom distribution patterns. However, climate‐only models outcompeted the environment‐only models in predicting diatom distributions. The explanatory variables had varying importance across species and growing degree days and precipitation had the highest relative importance in the full models. We also found that the predictability of the distributions varied greatly among species, but the differences among families were typically small.

Main conclusions

Our results suggest that at a broad geographical scale climate‐related factors are important determinants of diatom distributions and may be stronger drivers than local variables. The inclusion of both climatic and local environmental factors in species distribution modelling facilitates the understanding of the joint effects of these drivers on microorganisms in future conditions. From an applied perspective, our study demonstrated that species distribution models serve as an important tool in explaining and predicting microbial distributions.
Clinicopathologic features of IgG/IgA pemphigus in comparison with classic (IgG) and IgA pemphigus
Authors: Toosi Siavash , Collins Jeffrey W. , Lohse Christine M. , Wolz Michael M. , Wieland Carilyn N. , Camilleri Michael J. , Bruce Alison J. , McEvoy Marian T. , Lehman Julia S.
Published: November 2015

Background

The pemphigus group is characterized by the presence of circulating immunoglobulins against desmosomes. IgG/IgA pemphigus is defined by the presence of IgG and IgA cell surface deposits upon direct immunofluorescence (DIF) and/or circulating IgG and IgA autoantibodies upon indirect immunofluorescence. Previous reports of patients with IgG/IgA pemphigus are sparse. Whether IgG/IgA pemphigus is best classified as a subtype of IgG (classic) pemphigus or IgA pemphigus, or as a distinct entity, has yet to be determined.

Objectives

We compared the features of patients with IgG/IgA pemphigus to those of IgG pemphigus and IgA pemphigus.

Methods

Retrospective clinicopathologic study of patients with IgG, IgG/IgA, and IgA pemphigus evaluated at our clinic (1993–2013).

Results

We included 26, 13, and seven patients with IgG, IgG/IgA, and IgA pemphigus, respectively. Patients with IgG/IgA pemphigus did not differ significantly from patients with IgG pemphigus in terms of clinical and microscopic features, DIF findings, anti‐desmoglein antibody values, and treatments required. However, patients with IgG/IgA pemphigus were significantly different from patients with IgA pemphigus regarding intertriginous distribution (P = 0.038) and pustular lesions (P < 0.001), acantholysis (P = 0.043), and presence of intercellular C3 deposits on DIF (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Comparative clinicopathologic data imply that IgG/IgA pemphigus may best be regarded as a variant of IgG pemphigus and distinct from IgA pemphigus.
Incidence of trichostasis spinulosa at a single institution in Yemen
Authors: Alshami Mohammad A.
Published: November 2015

Background

Trichostasis spinulosa (TS) is a common, underdiagnosed cosmetic skin condition.

Objectives

The main objectives of this study were to determine the occurrence of TS relative to age and gender, to analyze its cutaneous distribution, and to investigate any possible familial basis for this condition, its impact on patients, and the types and efficacy of previous treatments.

Methods

All patients presenting to the outpatient dermatology clinic at the study institution and their relatives were examined for the presence of TS and were questioned about family history and previous treatment. Photographs and biopsies of suspected cases of TS were obtained.

Results

Of 2400 patients seen between August and December 2013, 286 patients were diagnosed with TS (135 males, 151 females; prevalence: 11.9%). Women presented more frequently than men with complaints of TS (6.3 vs. 4.2%), and more women had received prior treatment for TS (10.5 vs. 2.8%). The most commonly affected sites were the face (100%), interscapular area (10.5%), and arms (3.1%). Lesions involved the nasal alae in 96.2%, the nasal tip in 90.9%, the chin in 55.9%, and the cheeks in 52.4% of patients. Only 15.7% of patients had forehead lesions, and only 4.5% had perioral lesions. Among the 38 previously treated patients, 65.8% reported temporary improvement.

Conclusions

Trichostasis spinulosa is a common condition that predominantly affects the face in patients of all ages. Additional studies employing larger cohorts from multiple centers will be required to determine the prevalence of TS in the general population.
Skin diseases among internally displaced Tawerghans living in camps in Benghazi, Libya
Authors: Elfaituri Safa S.
Published: November 2015

Background

Benghazi has received many internally displaced persons (IDPs) from other Libyan cities as a result of the armed conflict in Libya. These groups have significant health problems associated with their displacement, including skin diseases.

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the spectrum and frequency of skin diseases among people living in IDP camps in Benghazi.

Methods

A total of 480 IDP camp residents with complaints of skin diseases were studied over a period of 6 months.

Results

All subjects were ethnic Tawerghans; about three‐quarters were female and half were adults. The disease types found to occur at the highest frequencies were skin infections (40.0%), followed by xerosis (31.3%), eczema (18.3%), acne (17.0%), hair‐related diseases (6.7%), and psychosomatic diseases (3.0%).

Conclusions

People who are resident in IDP camps have skin problems similar to those of other populations in similar circumstances. They have increased vulnerability to infections, environment‐associated disorders such as xerosis cutis and eczema, and diseases of psychosomatic origin.
Vitamin D levels in patients with albinism compared with those in normally pigmented Black patients attending dermatology clinics in the Free State province, South Africa
Authors: Van der Walt Johanna E. C. , Sinclair Werner
Published: November 2015

Background

Associations between vitamin D deficiency and a broad variety of independent diseases, including several bone diseases, various types of cancer, autoimmune diseases, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease, have been suggested. It is therefore important to detect and treat vitamin D deficiency in high‐risk groups. Because patients with albinism (PWA) practice a policy of strict sun avoidance, they may be at risk for low levels of vitamin D.

Objectives

This study was conducted in patients attending dermatology clinics in the Free State, South Africa, to determine sun avoidance behavior in the patient population and to compare 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) levels in PWA with those in normally pigmented Black patients attending the same clinics.

Methods

Serum 25(OH)D levels were assessed in 50 PWA and 50 normally pigmented Black control subjects. Questionnaires on sun exposure avoidance behaviors were administered to all participants.

Results

The present study showed no statistically significant difference in median 25(OH)D levels between PWA and controls with normally pigmented Black skin. Rather, the study found a tendency for controls to have lower 25(OH)D levels. A total of 53% (n = 53) of all study participants (PWA and controls) had a 25(OH)D level of <20 ng/ml; thus most participants were deficient in vitamin D. Most of the PWA who participated in the study did not adhere to strict sun avoidance behavior.

Conclusions

People with albinism attending dermatology clinics in the Free State, South Africa, need not be viewed as specifically at risk for low vitamin D levels.
Eccrine porocarcinoma with extensive cutaneous metastases
Authors: Montes‐Torres Andrea , Pérez‐Plaza Alejandra , Llamas‐Velasco Mar , Gordillo Carlos , De Argila Diego , García‐García Carmen , Fraga Javier , Marín Alicia , Ballesteros Ana Isabel , Daudén Esteban
Published: November 2015

Background

Eccrine porocarcinoma (EPC) is an uncommon malignant neoplasm that originates in the intraepidermal portion of the eccrine sweat duct. Although porocarcinoma is a slow‐growing tumor, up to 20% of cases can metastasize to regional lymph nodes, thus increasing mortality.

Methods

We describe the clinical and histopathological features and clinical course of three cases of extensive metastatic EPC diagnosed in our department over the last 10 years.

Results

All three patients were women aged 89–96 years. They had numerous skin tumors on the left leg that were histologically and immunohistochemically diagnosed as metastatic EPC. Only one patient had a history of primary porocarcinoma, which had been excised 6 years earlier. The remaining two patients had a previous lesion diagnosed as squamous cell carcinoma. We treated the patients with palliative radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy. Only one patient is currently alive.

Conclusions

The cases of cutaneous and regional metastatic EPC we present occurred in elderly women with major involvement of the left leg. The third case is noteworthy, as the patient presented a long latency period before metastases appeared. Difficulties in the clinical diagnosis – and occasionally histological diagnosis – of primary EPC could delay more aggressive treatment, although optimal treatment does not always guarantee a good prognosis.
Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and other cytokines in atopic dermatitis, and correlation with clinical features
Authors: Samochocki Zbigniew , Bogaczewicz Jarosław , Sysa‐Jędrzejowska Anna , McCauliffe Daniel P. , Kontny Ewa , Wozniacka Anna
Published: November 2015

Background

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was found increased in the stratum corneum of patients with atopic dermatitis (AD). However, its potential pathogenic role(s) in AD needs further clarification.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine whether VEGF serum levels correlate with other selected cytokine levels and features of AD.

Methods

VEGF and other cytokine levels were measured in 83 patients with AD and in a control group and then correlated with clinical and laboratory parameters of AD.

Results

The mean serum concentrations of VEGF and tumor necrosis factor α were significantly higher in patients with AD than in the control group, whereas the mean interleukin eight serum level was lower. VEGF concentrations correlated with the severity of AD as expressed by SCORAD index and objective SCORAD.

Conclusion

VEGF could be regarded as a potentially important mediator in the pathogenesis of AD, as VEGF levels correlate somewhat with AD severity.
Preparation and characterisation of surface‐active pectin from soya hulls by phosphate‐assisted subcritical water combined with ultrasonic treatment
Authors: Liu Chun , Cheng Fen‐Fen , Wang Jin‐Mei , Wan Zhi‐Li , Sun Ying‐En , Yang Xiao‐Quan
Published: November 2015

Surface‐active pectin was efficiently extracted from soya hull using phosphate‐assisted subcritical water combined with ultrasonic treatment (PASW‐UT). The physicochemical and functional properties of soya hull pectin (PSHP) were evaluated. Compared to pectin prepared by traditional acid extraction (ASHP), the yield and purity of PSHP were significantly increased, as well as PSHP also contained more protein moiety and displayed better emulsifying and foaming properties. However, the emulsifying and foaming properties of protein‐depleted soya bean hull pectin (PDSHP) were markedly decreased as compared to PSHP, which was supported by data of dynamic interfacial tension of pectins, suggesting that the emulsifying and foaming capacity of PSHP should be mainly ascribed to the existence of more extensin, as evidenced by the results of hydroxyproline content. In further comparison with commercial sugar beet pectin (SBP), the PSHP exhibited similar emulsifying properties with SBP over the pH range of 2–6. Moreover, the foam ability and stability were even higher than those of SBP, especially at pH 4.0. These findings suggest that PASW‐UT could be used as an effective strategy to prepare novel surface‐active pectin from soya hull.
Effect of fermentation by Aspergillus oryzae on the biochemical and sensory properties of anchovy (Engraulis japonicus) fish sauce
Authors: Sun Jianan , Yu Xiaohang , Fang Bohuan , Ma Lei , Xue Changhu , Zhang Zhaohui , Mao Xiangzhao
Published: November 2015

This study obtained an anchovy flavourful fish sauce by a bioprocess of aerobic fermentation with Aspergillus oryzae OAY1 in a period of time as short as 3 days. Amino nitrogen of the fish sauce increased to 7.35 mg mL−1 by optimisation with response surface methodology (RSM). Results of chemical analysis showed that amino nitrogen, hydrolysis degree, reducing sugar and total amino acids all increased, along with the enhanced antioxidant activity. With regard to biogenic amines, most of the tested biogenic amines decreased after fermentation. Electronic nose test revealed that the odour of the fish sauce became more balanced and favourable after fermentation. In addition, volatile odorant analysis and sensory evaluation showed that no particularly unpleasant flavour ingredient was found in the anchovy fish sauce, and the taste was overall satisfactory. Meanwhile, consumer acceptance test showed that the anchovy fish sauce produced in this study using A. orzyae OAY1 had a high consumer acceptance similar to the commercial anchovy fish sauce. This aerobic fast‐fermentation process provided an efficient method for high‐quality fish sauce production.
Mixing properties and rheological characteristics of dough used to make potato‐cereal soft wraps
Authors: Helgerud Trygve , Schüller Reidar B. , Dessev Tzvetelin , Rukke Elling O. , Knutsen Svein H. , Afseth Nils K. , Ballance Simon
Published: November 2015

We have studied mixing, rheology and stability of potato‐cereal flour doughs. These were prepared using samples of two varieties of cooked and cold‐stored potatoes. Dependent on variety a minimum duration of 24–48 h cold‐storage was required. Dough mixing torque plateau was inversely related to potato water content. This should be <79 g/100 g. It was also necessary to have a stable dough mixing torque plateau of >2 Nm at a specific total mechanical energy input of 18–22 kJ kg−1. The resting temperature of the dough was also inversely related to its strength (plateau elastic modulus at time zero). Target dough strength should be about 25 kPa in a bob‐cup. Above 15 °C it decreased as a function of time and within 1 h it became too sticky for commercial processing. At 4 °C the dough remained stable. Sufficient potato starch retrogradation is a pre‐requisite to make optimal potato‐cereal flour dough for commercial processing.
Polyphenol–cellulose interactions: effects of pH, temperature and salt
Authors: Phan Anh Dao T. , D'Arcy Bruce R. , Gidley Michael J.
Published: November 2015

Response surface methodology was employed to investigate the effects of common food and digestive tract conditions (pH, temperature, sodium chloride) on the adsorption of polyphenols to cellulose. Major dietary polyphenols selectively bound to cellulose to different extents and exhibited different binding behaviour changes with the environment. Three factors were studied, of which pH (3–7) was found to be the most influential factor, followed by temperature (4–37 °C), while NaCl (0–100 mm) had no significant effect on polyphenol adsorption. Polyphenol adsorption was sensitive to variation in physicochemical parameters: cyanidin‐3‐glucoside > ferulic acid > (+/−)‐catechin. Second‐order polynomial equation was a significant and adequate model to express the interaction relationships between polyphenol adsorption and changes in the binding conditions, as the experimental test values agreed with predicted adsorption values under optimised binding conditions. These findings contribute to knowledge on the mechanism of polyphenol–cellulose interactions, important for both food quality and nutritional value.
Polymorphisms of ST2‐IL18R1‐IL18RAP gene cluster: a new risk for autoimmune thyroid diseases
Authors: Wang X. , Zhu Y. F. , Li D. M. , Qin Q. , Wang Q. , Muhali F. S. , Jiang W. J. , Zhang J. A.
Published: November 2015

Interleukin 33 (IL33) / ST2 pathway and ST2‐interlukin18 receptor1‐interlukin18 receptor accessory protein (ST2‐IL18R1‐IL18RAP) gene cluster have been involved in many autoimmune diseases but few report in autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITD). In this study, we investigated whether polymorphisms of IL33, ST2, IL18R1, and IL18RAP are associated with Graves' disease (GD) and Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT), two major forms of AITD, among a Chinese population. A total of 11 SNPs were explored in a case–control study including 417 patients with GD, 250 HT patients and 301 controls, including rs1929992, rs10975519, rs10208293, rs6543116, rs1041973, rs3732127, rs11465597, rs1035130, rs2293225, rs1035127, rs917997 of IL 33, ST2‐IL18R1‐IL18RAP gene cluster. Genotyping of these SNPs was performed using matrix‐assisted laser desorption / ionization–time‐of‐flight mass spectrometer (MALDI‐TOF‐MS) platform from Sequenom. The frequencies of allele A and AA+AG genotype of rs6543116 (ST2) in HT patients were significantly increased compared with those of the controls (P = 0.029/0.021, OR = 1.31/1.62). And in another SNP rs917997, AA+AG genotype presented an increased frequency in HT subjects compared with controls (P = 0.046, OR = 1.53). Furthermore, the haplotype GAGCCCG from ST2‐IL18R1‐IL18RAP gene cluster (rs6543116, rs1041973, rs1035130, rs3732127, rs1035127, rs2293225, rs917997) was associated with increased susceptibility to GD with an OR of 2.03 (P = 0.022, 95% CI = 1.07–3.86). Some SNPs of ST2‐IL18R1‐IL18RAP gene cluster might increase the risk of susceptibility of HT and GD in Chinese Han population.
Iron status determination in pregnancy using the Thomas plot
Authors: Weyers R. , Coetzee M. J. , Nel M.
Published: November 2015

Introduction

Physiological changes during pregnancy affect routine tests for iron deficiency. The reticulocyte haemoglobin equivalent (RET‐He) and serum‐soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) assay are newer diagnostic parameters for the detection of iron deficiency, combined in the Thomas diagnostic plot. We used this plot to determine the iron status of pregnant women presenting for their first visit to an antenatal clinic in Bloemfontein, South Africa.

Methods

Routine laboratory tests (serum ferritin, full blood count and C‐reactive protein) and RET‐He and sTfR were performed. The iron status was determined using the Thomas plot.

Results

For this study, 103 pregnant women were recruited. According to the Thomas plot, 72.8% of the participants had normal iron stores and erythropoiesis. Iron‐deficient erythropoiesis was detected in 12.6%. A third of participants were anaemic. Serum ferritin showed excellent sensitivity but poor specificity for detecting depleted iron stores. HIV status had no influence on the iron status of the participants.

Conclusion

Our findings reiterate that causes other than iron deficiency should be considered in anaemic individuals. When compared with the Thomas plot, a low serum ferritin is a sensitive but nonspecific indicator of iron deficiency. The Thomas plot may provide useful information to identify pregnant individuals in whom haematologic parameters indicate limited iron availability for erythropoiesis.
Features, risk factors and clinical outcome of “very late” recurrences after surgery for localized renal carcinoma: A retrospective evaluation of a cohort with a minimum of 10 years of follow up
Authors: Antonelli Alessandro , Furlan Maria , Sodano Mario , Cindolo Luca , Belotti Sandra , Tardanico Regina , Cozzoli Alberto , Zanotelli Tiziano , Simeone Claudio
Published: November 2015

Objective

To evaluate the features and the predictors of “very late” recurrences after surgery for localized renal cell carcinoma.

Methods

Since 1983, an institutional database with data of more than 2300 consecutive patients treated for renal cancer has been prospectively maintained. Patients N0/NxM0 followed for a minimum of 10 years without recurrences were retrieved. The site, time and treatment of recurrences observed afterwards were recorded, and the predictors were investigated by Cox regression analysis.

Results

A total of 554 patients (231 women, 323 men; age 59.3 ± 11.6 years) followed for a mean/median time of 15.1/13.6 years (range 10.0–34.1 years) were analyzed. A recurrence was observed in 26 patients (4.6%) after a mean/median interval of 13.3/12.3 years (range 10.5–30.2 years). The pathological stage 2/3 was the only independent predictor of recurrence (P = 0.003), and it was related also to the latency of recurrence (mean/median latency 15.4/14.0, 11.4/10.8 and 12.5/12.0 years, respectively, for stage 1, 2 and 3; P < 0.005 for stage 1 vs stage 2 or 3). The contralateral kidney was the most frequent site of relapse in patients with stage pT1, whereas multiple sites were more frequent for stage pT2 and pT3.

Conclusions

The risk of a “very late” recurrence of renal cancer is approximately 5%, and it depends on the pathological stage. For stage pT1, the kidney/s should be surveilled for indefinite time, preferably by ultrasound to reduce the X‐ray exposition; for stage pT2 and pT3, the abdomen and the lungs should be monitored, by computed tomography scan during the first years, and then by abdominal ultrasound and chest X‐ray.
Quantitative trait locus mapping and functional genomics of an organophosphate resistance trait in the western corn rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera
Authors: Coates B. S. , Alves A. P. , Wang H. , Zhou X. , Nowatzki T. , Chen H. , Rangasamy M. , Robertson H. M. , Whitfield C. W. , Walden K. K. , Kachman S. D. , French B. W. , Meinke L. J. , Hawthorne D. , Abel C. A. , Sappington T. W. , Siegfried B. D. , Miller N. J.
Published: November 2015

The western corn rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera, is an insect pest of corn and population suppression with chemical insecticides is an important management tool. Traits conferring organophosphate insecticide resistance have increased in frequency amongst D. v. virgifera populations, resulting in the reduced efficacy in many corn‐growing regions of the USA. We used comparative functional genomic and quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping approaches to investigate the genetic basis of D. v. virgifera resistance to the organophosphate methyl‐parathion. RNA from adult methyl‐parathion resistant and susceptible adults was hybridized to 8331 microarray probes. The results predicted that 11 transcripts were significantly up‐regulated in resistant phenotypes, with the most significant (fold increases ≥ 2.43) being an α‐esterase‐like transcript. Differential expression was validated only for the α‐esterase (ST020027A20C03), with 11‐ to 13‐fold greater expression in methyl‐parathion resistant adults (P < 0.05). Progeny with a segregating methyl‐parathion resistance trait were obtained from a reciprocal backcross design. QTL analyses of high‐throughput single nucleotide polymorphism genotype data predicted involvement of a single genome interval. These data suggest that a specific carboyxesterase may function in field‐evolved corn rootworm resistance to organophosphates, even though direct linkage between the QTL and this locus could not be established.
Evaluation of twenty‐two rapid antigen detection tests in the diagnosis of Equine Influenza caused by viruses of H3N8 subtype
Authors: Yamanaka Takashi , Nemoto Manabu , Bannai Hiroshi , Tsujimura Koji , Kondo Takashi , Matsumura Tomio , Gildea Sarah , Cullinane Ann
Published: November 2015

Background

Equine influenza (EI) is a highly contagious disease caused by viruses of the H3N8 subtype. The rapid diagnosis of EI is essential to reduce the disease spread. Many rapid antigen detection (RAD) tests for diagnosing human influenza are available, but their ability to diagnose EI has not been systematically evaluated.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare the performance of 22 RAD tests in the diagnosis of EI.

Methods

The 22 RAD tests were performed on fivefold serial dilutions of EI virus to determine their detection limits. The four most sensitive RAD tests (ImmunoAce Flu, BD Flu examan, Quick chaser Flu A, B and ESPLINE Influenza A&B‐N) were further evaluated using nasopharyngeal samples collected from experimentally infected and naturally infected horses. The results were compared to those obtained using molecular tests.

Results

The detection limits of the 22 RAD tests varied hugely. Even the four RAD tests showing the best sensitivity were 125‐fold less sensitive than the molecular techniques. The duration of virus detection in the experimentally infected horses was shorter using the RAD tests than using the molecular techniques. The RAD tests detected between 27% and 73% of real‐time RT‐PCR‐positive samples from naturally infected horses.

Conclusions

The study demonstrated the importance of choosing the right RAD tests as only three of 22 were fit for diagnosing EI. It was also indicated that even RAD tests with the highest sensitivity serve only as an adjunct to molecular tests because of the potential for false‐negative results.
Evaluation of two methods for minimally invasive peripheral body temperature measurement in birds
Authors: Nord Andreas , Lehmann Marina , MacLeod Ross , McCafferty Dominic J. , Nager Ruedi G. , Nilsson Jan‐Åke , Helm Barbara
Published: November 2015

Body temperature (Tb) is a valuable parameter when assessing the physiological state of animals, but its widespread measurement is often constrained by methods that are invasive or require frequent recapture of animals. Alternatives based on automated remote sensing of peripheralTbshow promise, but little is known about their strengths and limitations. We measured peripheralTbin great titsParus majorwith subcutaneously implanted passive integrated transponders (PIT tags) and externally attached radio transmitters to determine repeatability of measurements, sensitivity of each method to variation in ambient temperature (Ta) and wind speed, the relationship between methods, and their ability to capture circadian variation inTb. Repeatability of measurements by radio transmitters was high (> 80%) when readings were taken within 20 min, but reduced to 16% when measures were spaced 3.5 h apart. PIT tag data for the 3.5 h interval were more repeatable (33%) and less variable (cv). Data were affected byTawith a stronger effect on the externally attached transmitters, but the influence of wind speed was small for both methods. There was a significant positive relationship between transmitter‐ and PIT tag temperature during both days and nights. Both methods were equally suited to detect diel changes in peripheralTb. However, transmitters offered longer detection distance and better temporal resolution. These qualities should be considered when deciding how to collectTbdata remotely. If properly deployed, both methods allow measurement of peripheralTbover a wide range of natural systems and conditions in small, free‐ranging, birds.
The Emergence of Consolidated Service Centers in Health Care
Authors: Abdulsalam Yousef , Gopalakrishnan Mohan , Maltz Arnold , Schneller Eugene
Published: November 2015

Hospital supply chains can be conceptualized as complex systems with a large number of players and a high degree of interrelatedness among them, creating an environment that is difficult to optimize and manage. In recent years, a consolidated service center (CSC) strategy (sometimes also referred to as “self‐distribution” strategy), has emerged in some healthcare systems, showing a strong potential for reducing the complexity in a hospital's supply chain to achieve high levels of performance and innovation. We examine three CSCs using a qualitative case method to understand the unique characteristics of this supply chain strategy, and how CSCs move hospital supply chains toward a less complex state. We find that CSCs demonstrate characteristics that distinguish them from other supply chain strategies. These characteristics enable the CSC to orchestrate supply base rationalization and disintermediation initiatives in the hospital's supply chain to effectively reduce the number of components and interrelatedness in this complex system.
Two‐Year Outcomes of Patients Treated With Aliskiren Under Clinical Practice Conditions: Non‐Interventional Prospective Study
Authors: Zeymer Uwe , Dechend Ralf , Riemer Thomas , Deeg Evelin , Senges Jochen , Pittrow David , Schmieder Roland ,   the 3A Registry Investigators
Published: November 2015

The authors investigated the long‐term effectiveness and safety of aliskiren (ALIS) with particular attention on its association with dual blockade of the renin‐angiotensin system (RAS). The open, prospective 3A Registry (N=8723) in Germany assigned patients in a 4:1:1 ratio to ALIS, angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), or non‐RAS drugs. Patients taking ALIS compared with those taking ACE inhibitors/ARBs or non‐RAS had more comorbidities and risk factors, were taking more antihypertensive agents, and had higher blood pressure (BP) values at entry. At 2 years, BP reduction from baseline was similar in all groups (mean, −20.5/−9.9 mm Hg). A total of 2.3% of patients died, 0.5% had myocardial infarction, 0.6% had stroke, 2.9% were hospitalized, and 5.5% had any event (not significant between groups). ALIS alone or combined with another RAS inhibitor was well tolerated and effective in lowering BP in typical unselected patients with hypertension. Given the methodical limitations of the design, the study cannot be used to confirm or refute safety concerns for dual RAS blockade as suggested by the Aliskiren Trial in Type 2 Diabetes Using Cardio‐Renal Endpoints (ALTITUDE) trial.
A Novel Fluorescent Labeling Method Enables Monitoring of Spatio‐Temporal Dynamics of Developing Microsporidia
Authors: Santiana Marianita , Takvorian Peter M. , Altan‐Bonnet Nihal , Cali Ann
Published: November 2015

The microsporidium, Anncaliia algerae (Brachiola algerae), is a eukaryotic obligate intracellular parasite first isolated from mosquitoes and is an important opportunistic human pathogen that can cause morbidity and mortality among immune‐compromised individuals including patients with AIDS and those undergoing chemotherapy. There is little known about the Microsporidia–host cell interface in living host cells, due to current approaches being limited by the lack of fluorescent reporters for detecting the parasite lifecycle. Here, we have developed and applied novel vital fluorescent parasite labeling methodologies in conjunction with fluorescent protein‐tagged reporters to track simultaneously the dynamics of both parasite and host cell specific components, including the secretory and endocytic trafficking pathways, during the entire infection time period. We have found dramatic changes in the dynamics of host secretory trafficking organelles during the course of infection. The Golgi compartment is gradually disassembled and regenerated into mini‐Golgi structures in parallel with cellular microtubule depolymerization. Importantly, we find that Microsporidia progeny are associated with these de novo formed mini‐Golgi structures. These host structures appear to create a membrane bound niche environment for parasite development. Our studies presented here provide novel imaging tools and methodologies that will facilitate in understanding the biology of microsporidial parasites in the living host.
Evolutionary History of the Enzymes Involved in the Calvin–Benson Cycle in Euglenids
Authors: Markunas Chelsea M. , Triemer Richard E.
Published: November 2015

Euglenids are an ancient lineage that may have existed as early as 2 billion years ago. A mere 65 years ago, Melvin Calvin and Andrew A. Benson performed experiments on Euglena gracilis and elucidated the series of reactions by which carbon was fixed and reduced during photosynthesis. However, the evolutionary history of this pathway (Calvin–Benson cycle) in euglenids was more complex than Calvin and Benson could have imagined. The chloroplast present today in euglenophytes arose from a secondary endosymbiosis between a phagotrophic euglenid and a prasinophyte green alga. A long period of evolutionary time existed before this secondary endosymbiotic event took place, which allowed for other endosymbiotic events or gene transfers to occur prior to the establishment of the green chloroplast. This research revealed the evolutionary history of the major enzymes of the Calvin–Benson cycle throughout the euglenid lineage and showed that the majority of genes for Calvin–Benson cycle enzymes shared an ancestry with red algae and/or chromophytes suggesting they may have been transferred to the nucleus prior to the acquisition of the green chloroplast.
Isolation of a novel polyomavirus, related to Japanese eel endothelial cell‐infecting virus, from marbled eels, Anguilla marmorata (Quoy & Gaimard)
Authors: Wen C M , Chen M M , Wang C S , Liu P C , Nan F H
Published: November 2015

Marbled eels, Anguilla marmorata (Quoy & Gaimard), cultured in Taiwan exhibited haemorrhage and mortality in January 2012. The severely diseased eels bled from the gills and showed congestion of the central venous sinus of the gill filaments and haemorrhage throughout the body similar to viral endothelial cell necrosis of eel. In this study, a novel polyomavirus (AmPyV) was isolated from the diseased eels using the AMPF cell line established from the pectoral fin of healthy marbled eels. AmPyV was found to encode a long T‐antigen orthologous gene. Phylogenetic analysis showed that AmPyV was closely related to Japanese eel endothelial cell‐infecting virus. PCR assays revealed AmPyV infection throughout the systemic organs. AmPyV proliferated in the AMPF, EK‐1 and EO‐2 cells at temperatures 25–30 °C, and the progeny virus yields were 107.0, 107.4 and 107.7 TCID50 mL−1, respectively. The purified virions were icosahedral particles, 70–80 nm in diameter. No clinical signs or mortality was observed among the eels injected with the virus; however, the virus was reisolated from the brain, eyes, kidneys, fins and gills of infected eels 2 month after injection. Our results suggest that AmPyV exhibits a latent infection. Pathogen of the disease needs to study further.
Evaluating Nonverbal Behavior of Individuals with Dementia During Feeding: A Survey of the Nursing Staff in Residential Care Homes for Elderly Adults
Authors: Kuehlmeyer Katja , Schuler Anna F. , Kolb Christian , Borasio Gian Domenico , Jox Ralf J.
Published: November 2015

Objectives

To determine how nursing staff evaluate nonverbal behavior related to hand and tube feeding of residents with dementia.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Setting

A stratified sample of nurses and nursing assistants in residential nursing homes in a major German city.

Participants

Nursing staff members (N = 131) in 12 nursing homes.

Measurements

Nursing staff perception of nonverbal behavior of residents with dementia in response to hand and tube feeding.

Results

Ninety‐three percent of survey participants considered the nonverbal behavior of residents with advanced dementia crucial for decisions about artificial nutrition and hydration (ANH). The same percentage had at some point encountered residents who did not open their mouths when feeding was attempted. Fifty‐three percent of the participants interpreted residents’ expressions of pleasure while eating as a will to live. The most frequent interpretation of residents’ aversive behavior was discomfort. When residents did not open their mouth during nurse's hand feeding, 41% of the participants inferred a will to die.

Conclusion

Most nurses and nursing assistants consider residents’ behavior during hand or tube feeding to be important, but their interpretations are heterogeneous. Various professional caregivers assume a will to live or die. Further reflection is necessary to determine how behavioral expressions should be factored into treatment decisions.
Somatic and Neuroendocrine Changes in Response to Chronic Corticosterone Exposure During Adolescence in Male and Female Rats
Authors: Kaplowitz E. T. , Savenkova M. , Karatsoreos I. N. , Romeo R. D.
Published: November 2015

Prolonged stress and repeated activation of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis can result in many sex‐dependent behavioural and metabolic changes in rats, including alterations in feeding behaviour and reduced body weight. In adults, these effects of stress can be mimicked by corticosterone, a major output of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis, and recapitulate the stress‐induced sex difference, such that corticosterone‐treated males show greater weight loss than females. Similar to adults, chronic stress during adolescence leads to reduced weight gain, particularly in males. However, it is currently unknown whether corticosterone mediates this somatic change and whether additional measures of neuroendocrine function are affected by chronic corticosterone exposure during adolescence in a sex‐dependent manner. Therefore, we examined the effects of non‐invasively administered corticosterone (150 or 300 μg/ml) in the drinking water of male and female rats throughout adolescent development (30–58 days of age). We found that adolescent animals exposed to chronic corticosterone gain significantly less weight than controls, which may be partly mediated by the effects of corticosterone on food consumption, fluid intake and gonadal hormone function. Our data further show that, despite similar circulating corticosterone levels, males demonstrate a greater sensitivity to these changes than females. We also found thatNpy1andNpy5receptormRNAexpression, genes implicated in appetite regulation, was significantly reduced in the ventral medial hypothalamus of corticosterone‐treated males and females compared to controls. Finally, parameters of gonadal function, such as plasma sex steroid concentrations and weight of reproductive tissues, were reduced by adolescent corticosterone treatment, although only in males. The data obtained in the present study indicate that chronic corticosterone exposure throughout adolescent development results in significant and sex‐dependent somatic and neuroendocrine changes, and the results also provide an experimental framework for further investigating the impact of corticosterone on metabolic and neuroendocrine function during adolescence.
Women's attitudes to beauty, aging, and the place of cosmetic procedures: insights from the QUEST Observatory
Authors: Ehlinger‐Martin Agnès , Cohen‐Letessier Anny , Taïeb Maryna , Azoulay Elisabeth , du Crest Dominique
Published: November 2015

Background

The quest for beauty has been a constant theme in human history since the earliest civilizations. The QUEST Observatory, an online observational study, investigated how women continue the pursuit of beauty in the 21st century by examining women's perceptions of facial attractiveness and the strategies they adopt to combat the effects of time on their faces.

Aims

To investigate women's attitudes toward beauty, aging, and the place of minimally invasive cosmetic procedures and anti‐aging skincare.

Patients/Methods

An in‐depth questionnaire was developed by experts in dermatology, esthetic medicine, and social anthropology as the basis for this online, observational study. A nationally representative sample of 1000 French women aged between 25 and 70 years took part in the study.

Results

The main criteria for beauty were identified as a natural look, self‐confidence, and attractive skin. A woman is considered to be at the peak of beauty in her mid‐thirties just before early signs of facial aging begin to appear. Approximately 50% of women contemplate cosmetic procedures, but less than 10% go ahead. Confidence in the practitioner and good postprocedure follow‐up are as influential as efficacy, safety, and cost in decisions about cosmetic procedures.

Conclusions

The QUEST Observatory sheds valuable light on factors that affect women's choices regarding strategies for anti‐aging and cosmetic procedures. These findings will help esthetic practitioners to better understand their patients and to meet their expectations.
Bilateral glossopharyngeal neuropathy following chemo and radiation therapy for a primitive neuroectodermal tumour
Authors: Heir G. M. , Masterson M.
Published: November 2015

This case describes a young adult male patient diagnosed and treated for a primitive neuroectodermal tumour (PNET) at 3 years of age. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy used following surgical treatment of this tumour have known neurotoxic complications, some of which have delayed onset. In this case, the patient exhibited sudden onset, persistent bilateral and deep ear pain that was consistent with a neuropathy of the glossopharyngeal nerve occurring 17 years after the completion of therapy for PNET. Treatment with pregabalin was successful with near‐complete resolution of the complaint. The diagnostic certainty in this case is discussed in relation to the current diagnostic criteria for neuropathic pain.
Cytological Findings of 140 Bile Samples from Dogs and Cats and Associated Clinical Pathological Data
Authors: Peters L.M. , Glanemann B. , Garden O.A. , Szladovits B.
Published: November 2015

Background

Cholecystocentesis can be part of the diagnostic workup of hepatobiliary disease in small animals, but literature on cytological evaluation of bile is scant.

Objectives

To determine the diagnostic utility of cytological assessment of bile aspirates.

Animals

Fifty‐six and 78 client‐owned dogs and cats, respectively, with bile collected by cholecystocentesis and submitted to our diagnostic laboratory between 1999 and 2014.

Methods

Retrospective study describing cytological findings of bile, concurrent bacterial culture results, hematological and serum biochemical data, gallbladder biopsy results, as well as final diagnosis and complications after cholecystocentesis.

Results

Infectious agents were found in 30% of canine and 22% of feline bile aspirates, and inflammation in 5% and 19% respectively. Presence of microorganisms was more often detected on cytological examination (24%) than by culture (21%). The most common bacterial isolates wereEscherichia coliandEnterococcus spp., isolated from 14.8% and 6.7% of cultured samples respectively. Only increased canine pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity concentration (cPLI) was significantly associated with the presence of microorganisms, inflammatory cells, or both in bile. Clinically relevant complications of cholecystocentesis occurred in 2 dogs. The majority of the animals undergoing cholecystocentesis suffered from hepatic, pancreatic, gastrointestinal disease, or a combination thereof.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Cytological examination of bile is inexpensive and straightforward, and yields diagnostically relevant information that precedes and complements bacterial culture.