bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Perioperative Chemotherapy Timing in Conjunction With Postoperative External-Beam Radiation Therapy on Extremity Soft-Tissue Sarcomas Outcome
Authors: Mahmoud Omar , Dosch Austin , Kwon Deukwoo , Pitcher John D. , Conway Sheila , Benedetto Pasquale , Fernandez Gustavo , Trent Jonathan , Temple H. Thomas , Wolfson Aaron H.
Published: May 2014

Purpose:

The perioperative management of primary extremity soft-tissue sarcomas (ESTS) is multidisciplinary including radiation therapy and chemotherapy (CT). The interplay between these modalities and the relative importance of each remain unclear. Our study aims to determine the relative impact of CT and radiotherapy on the outcome of ESTS patients treated with limb-sparing surgery.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective review of ESTS registry yielded 97 patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NCT) and/or adjuvant CT with or without external-beam radiation therapy (EBRT) from January 1, 1999 through December 31, 2009. The cohort comprised 56 males and 41 females whose age at surgery ranged from 17 to 83 years (median, 56 y). Tumor characteristics included the following: 73 lower ESTS; 70 grade 3 lesions; 63 American Joint Committee on Cancer stage III tumors; and 27 lesions with positive microscopic margins. The following outcome parameters were evaluated for the patients’ subgroups: overall survival (OS), locoregional control (LRC), and disease-free survival (DFS).

Results:

EBRT was delivered postoperatively to 81 patients and 49 received CT. Median EBRT dose was 63 Gy (range, 50 to 72 Gy). At median follow-up of 54.6 months, the 5-year OS, LRC, DFS was 68.9%, 87.1%, 66.5%, respectively. On multivariate analysis, positive surgical margins negatively impacted LRC, DFS, and OS (hazard ratio [HR]=10.43,P=0.004), (HR=2.37,P=0.03), (HR=2.26,P=0.038), respectively. EBRT use improved LRC (HR=0.24,P=0.018) and DFS (HR=0.36,P=0.021). The impact of EBRT on DFS was retained (HR=0.28,P=0.006) in the high-grade ESTS subgroup who received CT. The 5-year local failure rate was 6.5%, 28.6%, and 22.2% (P=0.019) for patient receiving NCT, adjuvant chemotherapy, and no CT, respectively.

Conclusion:

Our data support the use of NCT followed by limb-sparing surgery and adjuvant EBRT in ESTS for local failure reduction with a trend toward improved DFS.
Systemic Therapy in Advanced Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma (CSCC)
Authors: Jarkowski Anthony , Hare Ryan , Loud Peter , Skitzki Joseph J. , Kane John M. , May Kilian S. , Zeitouni Nathalie C. , Nestico Jill , Vona Karen L. , Groman Adrienne , Khushalani Nikhil I.
Published: May 2014

Objectives:

Treatment of locally advanced unresectable or metastatic cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (mCSCC) is suboptimal with a paucity of robust data on systemic therapy. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of patients with locally advanced unresectable or mCSCC treated with systemic therapy.

Methods:

Records of patients with CSCC treated with systemic therapy from January 2001 to January 2011 were reviewed. Response was assessed using WHO criteria. Descriptive results were assessed using Wilcoxon rank-sum test for ordinal responses and Pearson χ2 test for categorical responses. Survival was calculated by the Kaplan-Meier method.

Results:

Of 28 patients identified, 25 patients (M:F=18:7), median age 66 years (range, 39 to 85 y), had the required data for final analysis. Partial response was 44% and stable disease (SD) was 24%. The median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were 5.5 months (2.3, 13.2) and 10.9 months (5.3, 21.3) respectively; 3-year OS was 22%. Patients with WHO response had improved PFS (20.8 mo; 4.4, NR) and OS (37.5 mo; 10.3, NR) compared with patients with SD/PD (PFS 2.7 mo; OS 5.9 mo). Use of platinum-based therapy significantly improved PFS and OS, whereas taxanes and cetuximab had no impact in this small cohort. There was no difference in PFS or OS with multiagent versus single-agent therapy.

Conclusions:

Platinum-based therapy remains as one of the standard options in advanced CSCC management. Agents to improve response rates are needed and future trials should address the use of novel targeted and new chemotherapy combinations in CSCC.
Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy for Elderly Patients With Medically Inoperable Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Yechieli Raphael L. , Robbins Jared R. , Mahan Meredith , Siddiqui Farzan , Ajlouni Munther
Published: May 2014

Objectives:

People over the age of 75 years account for approximately 40% of patients diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, many with comorbidities that may limit their treatment options. This study reports on the use of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) in this population.

Materials and Methods:

Twenty consecutively treated patients over the age of 75 with pathologically proven localized pancreatic cancer were included in this retrospective review. All had been evaluated by a multidisciplinary team as unable to tolerate surgery or combined chemoradiation therapy. Patient outcomes were analyzed to determine the safety and efficacy of SBRT in this elderly cohort.

Results:

The median age was 83.2 years (minimum 77 y, maximum 90 y). Eighteen patients were treated at time of initial diagnosis, and 2 for recurrence after surgery. Eleven (55%) of the patients had an Adult Comorbidity Evaluation-27 comorbidity index score of 3 (severe) and 6 (30%) had a score of 2 (moderate). Fourteen patients were treated with 35 Gy in 5 fractions, 5 with 30 Gy in 5 fractions, and 1 patient with 36 Gy in 3 fractions. Seven (35%) patients had common terminology criteria for adverse events (CTCAE) V4.0 toxicity grade of 1-2, and 3 patients had a CTCAE V4.0 toxicity grade of 3-4, 2 with dehydration, and 1 had episodes of gastrointestinal bleeding. Three patients recurred locally, 10 had distant metastases, 4 of whom were found on the first posttreatment scan. Median overall survival was 6.4 months (95% confidence interval, 3.5-10.8 mo). Median recurrence-free survival was 6.8 months (95% confidence interval, 1.3-23.5 mo). Two patients survived >23 months.

Conclusion:

SBRT for pancreatic cancer appears to be a safe and effective method for treatment of elderly patients, even in the setting of severe comorbidities.
Campylobacter corcagiensis sp. nov., isolated from faeces of captive lion-tailed macaques (Macaca silenus)
Authors: Koziel Monika , O’Doherty Pat , Vandamme Peter , Corcoran Gerard D. , Sleator Roy D. , Lucey Brigid
Published: May 2014

An investigation of the prevalence of

Campylobacter ureolyticus

in a variety of animals led to the identification of the strain CIT 045T, in the faeces of captive lion-tailed macaques (Macaca silenus). Originally, believed to be

Campylobacter ureolyticus

based on the colony morphology and positive urease test, analysis of 16S rRNA and hsp60 gene sequences of this isolate revealed that the strain differs significantly from other species of the genus

Campylobacter

described to date. Species-specific primers for 16S rRNA and hsp60 genes were designed and used to identify two additional strains isolated from faeces samples from other macaques. Nucleotide sequence analysis of the 16S rRNA and hsp60 genes revealed ≤95 % and ≤82 % sequence similarity to recognized species of the genus

Campylobacter

respectively. All three isolates formed a distinct group within the genus

Campylobacter

based on their 16S rRNA and hsp60 sequences and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight (MALDI-TOF) profiles. The unique species status was further supported by phenotypic characteristics of the isolates. All isolates were found to be oxidase-, catalase- and urease-positive, they grew well at 37 °C and 42 °C and produced H2S on TSI (triple-sugar iron) and SIM (sulfide indole motility) media. The name Campylobacter corcagiensis sp. nov. is proposed for this novel species, with the strain CIT 045T as the type strain CIT 045T ( = LMG 27932T, CCUG 64942T).
How duplicated transcription regulators can diversify to govern the expression of nonoverlapping sets of genes
Authors: Pérez J. Christian , Fordyce Polly M. , Lohse Matthew B. , Hanson-Smith Victor , DeRisi Joseph L. , Johnson Alexander D.
Published: May 2014

The duplication of transcription regulators can elicit major regulatory network rearrangements over evolutionary timescales. However, few examples of duplications resulting in gene network expansions are understood in molecular detail. Here we show that four Candida albicans transcription regulators that arose by successive duplications have differentiated from one another by acquiring different intrinsic DNA-binding specificities, different preferences for half-site spacing, and different associations with cofactors. The combination of these three mechanisms resulted in each of the four regulators controlling a distinct set of target genes, which likely contributed to the adaption of this fungus to its human host. Our results illustrate how successive duplications and diversification of an ancestral transcription regulator can underlie major changes in an organism’s regulatory circuitry.
Consequences of Whole-Genome Triplication as Revealed by Comparative Genomic Analyses of the Wild RadishRaphanus raphanistrumand Three Other Brassicaceae Species
Authors: Moghe Gaurav D. , Hufnagel David E. , Tang Haibao , Xiao Yongli , Dworkin Ian , Town Christopher D. , Conner Jeffrey K. , Shiu Shin-Han
Published: May 2014

Polyploidization events are frequent among flowering plants, and the duplicate genes produced via such events contribute significantly to plant evolution. We sequenced the genome of wild radish (Raphanus raphanistrum), a Brassicaceae species that experienced a whole-genome triplication event prior to diverging from Brassica rapa. Despite substantial gene gains in these two species compared with Arabidopsis thaliana and Arabidopsis lyrata, ∼70% of the orthologous groups experienced gene losses in R. raphanistrum and B. rapa, with most of the losses occurring prior to their divergence. The retained duplicates show substantial divergence in sequence and expression. Based on comparison of A. thaliana and R. raphanistrum ortholog floral expression levels, retained radish duplicates diverged primarily via maintenance of ancestral expression level in one copy and reduction of expression level in others. In addition, retained duplicates differed significantly from genes that reverted to singleton state in function, sequence composition, expression patterns, network connectivity, and rates of evolution. Using these properties, we established a statistical learning model for predicting whether a duplicate would be retained postpolyploidization. Overall, our study provides new insights into the processes of plant duplicate loss, retention, and functional divergence and highlights the need for further understanding factors controlling duplicate gene fate.
Structure of BamA, an essential factor in outer membrane protein biogenesis
Authors: Albrecht Reinhard , Schütz Monika , Oberhettinger Philipp , Faulstich Michaela , Bermejo Ivan , Rudel Thomas , Diederichs Kay , Zeth Kornelius
Published: May 2014

Outer membrane protein (OMP) biogenesis is an essential process for maintaining the bacterial cell envelope and involves the β-barrel assembly machinery (BAM) for OMP recognition, folding and assembly. InEscherichia colithis function is orchestrated by five proteins: the integral outer membrane protein BamA of the Omp85 superfamily and four associated lipoproteins. To unravel the mechanism underlying OMP folding and insertion, the structure of theE. coliBamA β-barrel and P5 domain was determined at 3 Å resolution. These data add information beyond that provided in the recently published crystal structures of BamA fromHaemophilus ducreyiandNeisseria gonorrhoeaeand are a valuable basis for the interpretation of pertinent functional studies. In an `open' conformation,E. coliBamA displays a significant degree of flexibility between P5 and the barrel domain, which is indicative of a multi-state function in substrate transfer.E. coliBamA is characterized by a discontinuous β-barrel with impaired β1–β16 strand interactions denoted by only two connecting hydrogen bonds and a disordered C-terminus. The 16-stranded barrel surrounds a large cavity which implies a function in OMP substrate binding and partial folding. These findings strongly support a mechanism of OMP biogenesis in which substrates are partially folded inside the barrel cavity and are subsequently released laterally into the lipid bilayer.
(1,6,7,12-Tetraazaperylene-κ2N,N′)bis(4,4′,5,5′-tetramethyl-2,2′-bipyridyl-κ2N,N′)ruthenium(II) bis(hexafluoridophosphate) acetonitrile trisolvate
Authors: Brietzke Thomas , Kässler Daniel , Kelling Alexandra , Schilde Uwe , Holdt Hans-Jürgen
Published: May 2014

In the title compound,rac-[Ru(C14H16N2)2(C16H8N4)](PF6)2·3C2H3N, discrete dimers of complex cations, [Ru(tmbpy)2tape]2+, of opposite chirality are formed (tmbpy = tetramethylbipyridine; tape = tetraazaperylene), held together by π–π stacking interactions between the tetraazaperylene moieties with centroid–centroid distances in the range 3.563 (3)–3.837 (3) Å. These interactions exhibit a parallel displaced π–π stacking mode. Additional weak C—H...π-ring and C—H...N and C—H...F interactions are found, leading to a three-dimensional architecture. The RuIIatom is coordinated in a distorted octahedral geometry. The counter-charge is provided by two hexafluoridophosphate anions and the asymmetric unit is completed by three acetonitrile solvent molecules of crystallization. Four F atoms of one PF6−anion are disordered over three sets of sites with occupancies of 0.517 (3):0.244 (3):0.239 (3). Two acetonitrile solvent molecules are highly disordered and their estimated scattering contribution was subtracted from the observed diffraction data using the SQUEEZE option inPLATON[Spek (2009).Acta Cryst.D65, 148–155].
Na4.25Mo15S19: a novel ternary reduced molybdenum sulfide containing Mo6and Mo9clusters
Authors: Salloum D. , Gougeon P. , Gall P.
Published: May 2014

The structure of tetrasodium pentadecamolybdenum nonadecasulfide, Na4.25Mo15S19, is isotypic with Na3.9Mo15Se19[Salloumet al.(2013).Acta Cryst.E69, i67–i68]. It is characterized by Mo6Si8Sa6and Mo9Si11Sa6(whereirepresents inner andaapical atoms) cluster units that are present in a 1:1 ratio. The cluster units are centered at Wyckoff positions 2band 2c, and have point-group symmetry -3 and -6, respectively. The clusters are interconnected through additional Mo—S bonds. The Na+cations occupy interunit voids formed by six or seven S atoms. One Mo, one S and one Na site [occupancy 0.751 (12)] are situated on mirror planes, and two other S atoms and one Na site (full occupancy) are situated on threefold rotation axes.
trans-2,5-Dimethylpiperazine-1,4-diium dinitrate
Authors: Gatfaoui Sofian , Roisnel Thierry , Dhaouadi Hassouna , Marouani Houda
Published: May 2014

In the structure of the title salt, C6H16N22+·2NO3−, the cations are connected to the anions through bifurcated N—H...(O,O) and weak C—H...O hydrogen bonds, generating corrugated layers parallel to the (100) plane. The organic cation is centrosymmetric and the diprotonated piperazine ring adopts a chair conformation, with the methyl groups occupying equatorial positions.
β-Cyclodextrin dimethylformamide 12.5 hydrate: a deeper insight into β-cyclodextrin crystal packing
Authors: Granero-García Rubén , Fabbiani Francesca P. A.
Published: May 2014

The structure of a 1:1 β-cyclodextrin–dimethylformamide hydrated complex has been determined from single-crystal X-ray diffraction data. A complete study of the structure is presented herein, including invariom refinement and interaction energy calculations. The structure has unit-cell parameters that are different from those of other β-cyclodextrin complexes crystallizing in the same space group, but exhibits the known herringbone packing type. A structural comparison of these complexes has been carried out withXPacin order to understand the origin of the differences in packing and unit-cell parameters. The results show that the differences are most likely ascribed to variations in hydration and in the hydrogen-bonded network.
Global studies means forward-looking
Authors: Ahamer Gilbert
Published: May 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to show, in a practical manner, that discursive procedures (mediated by online platforms or publication systems) enhance cultural understanding of distinct social entities such as Europe and Russia.

Design/methodology/approach

– Joint special issues convening authors from east and west in an equilibrated manner give an opportunity for in-depth review processes, in the course of which different paradigms of global evolution are perceived and reflected.

Findings

– If handled with care, information technologies are able to strongly support such stepwise consensus finding. The areas of futurology, forward looking, global megatrends, global evolution, globalistics and global studies are prime cases for the patient alignment of world views and multi-paradigmatic approach towards (ultimately) holistic and second-order science.

Originality/value

– Even in the face of diverse political realities a series of conferences, lectures and web-supported exercises for the authoring of articles are able to consistently merge actors in academia and policy consulting.
Examining the role of stakeholder pressure and knowledge management on supply chain risk and demand responsiveness
Authors: E. Cantor David , Blackhurst Jennifer , Pan Mengyang , Crum Mike
Published: May 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to contribute to the supply chain risk management literature by examining how stakeholders place pressure on the firm to engage in risk management activities.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper utilizes a survey approach to test the nomological model. The analysis was carried out using structural equation modeling techniques.

Findings

– The results demonstrate that stakeholders place pressure on the firm to mitigate risk and that knowledge management (KM) and joint planning activities with suppliers serve as mediating roles in the model. The process-oriented model reveals that these factors influence the firm's ability to be responsive to customer demand.

Originality/value

– The research represents one of the first papers to empirically test how stakeholder theory and KM contributes to risk mitigation activities. Additionally, the paper shows the impact of KM factors on risk mitigation activities. The paper attempts to explain from both a theoretical and empirical perspective how and why firms are engaging in risk mitigation activities and how the impacts demand responsiveness.
Research Watch: talking therapy for anxiety and social difficulties may improve social inclusion after diagnosis with schizophrenia
Authors: Holttum Sue
Published: May 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to summarize two 2013 papers on psychological therapies for people with a diagnosis of schizophrenia.

Design/methodology/approach

– The first paper is a report of a small study of cognitive behaviour therapy for anxiety in people with a diagnosis of schizophrenia attending an early intervention service. The second paper is a review of several studies looking at therapies to help people understand what others are feeling and thinking, and so cope better in social situations.

Findings

– Out of 11 people referred to the anxiety group, seven stayed until the end. Their self-rated anxiety and depression decreased significantly. The review of therapies for social situations suggests that there is a need for more than just training in understanding other people. It is probably necessary to offer a package of therapy that involves role-play and practising skills in actual situations, and possibly involving friends or family members.

Originality/value

– These papers report on therapies that have only recently begun to be considered for people with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. It seems much more attention needs to be paid to helping people with anxiety when they have this diagnosis, and also to helping people cope in social situations so that they can participate in important social activities and work.
Service quality and behavioural intentions in broadband services selection
Authors: Sabbir Rahman Muhammad , Nusrate Aziz Md.
Published: May 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine consumers’ perceptions and their behavioural intentions in selecting an internet broadband service in Malaysia by inspecting young users’ perceptions, in respect of the technical, functional and experience economy perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

– A survey methodology using questionnaires was adopted to solicit the required information from 400 existing, as well as potential users. Data were analysed through exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling.

Findings

– The research shows that in selecting an operator's service both technical and functional qualities are highly mediated by young consumers’ perceptions in explaining their behavioural intentions. The paper also finds that the experience economy variable has a direct effect, which is more dominant on young consumers’ behavioural intentions than the indirect effect through perception, which implies a partial mediation.

Research limitations/implications

– The study focused on young users’ perceptions and the implicative behavioural intentions in selecting a broadband operator within the Klang Valley area in Malaysia. Thus, it may not be generalized to all young consumers’ around the world.

Practical implications

– This study identifies the perceived attributes of quality and experience economy as well as generalizing the young consumers’ buying intentions in selecting an internet broadband operator in Malaysia.

Originality/value

– This research contributes to the existing literature because the study of the behavioural aspects of young consumers is of great importance for marketers to identify the consumers’ ultimate choice in internet broadband selection in Malaysia.
Borehole seismic quantitative diagnosis of a seismic velocity model for 3D seismic imaging of subsurface structures
Authors: Li Yingping , Hewett Ben
Published: May 2014

Quantifying uncertainties of surface seismic velocity models is a difficult task. The use of multifarious vertical seismic profiling data provides quantification of velocity model uncertainties. Two borehole seismic diagnosis methods for velocity model uncertainties are developed. The first method is performed with 3D ray‐traced first arrival times through a surface seismic velocity model and compared with measured first arrival times from downhole receivers. It generates a profile of absolute and relative misfits, indicating the velocity uncertainty as a function of depth. The second approach directly compares the differences between the first arrival incident angles measured from 3‐C borehole seismic data and the calculated first arrival incident angles of seismic rays through the velocity model to quantify the model uncertainties. Five seismic velocity models in the Gulf of Mexico are diagnosed using the diagnosis methods with up to six sets of borehole seismic data recorded in three wells. The uncertainty profiles vary with depths and azimuths, revealing the complexity of velocity model uncertainties and providing some clues for further velocity updating. The diagnosis methods are used as velocity updating QC tools and integrated with the conventional seismic velocity updating flow to complement the criteria of flat common image gathers.
Environmental water allocations are insufficient to control an invasive wetland plant: evidence from a highly regulated floodplain wetland
Authors: Vivian Lyndsey M. , Ward Keith A. , Zwart Alexander B. , Godfree Robert C.
Published: May 2014

Regulation of the world's rivers and alteration of natural flow regimes have led to the degradation of floodplains and wetlands. Here, we investigate plant–flood interactions in a floodplain wetland to determine whether a return to more natural flooding regimes using environmental water allocations can contribute to restoration from a degraded state.

We use detailed field surveys to quantify the effects of flooding on a native rush, Juncus ingens, which has become invasive in floodplain grasslands in south‐eastern Australia. We then apply these results to determine the likelihood of generating the flood regime required to control J. ingens in its new range, considering the regulated nature of the river system.

Complete submergence for several months substantially reduced J. ingens stem densities, survival and recovery. However, rhizomes were able to survive, with new stems produced during subsequent partial submergence. Under current regulated conditions, the volume of environmental water needed to cause substantial stem decline, and potentially rhizome death, is extremely large – particularly for tall stems – even when used in conjunction with a natural flood peak.

Synthesis and applications. Although repeated submergence events may cause stem decline of the invasive plant Juncus ingens, the present day operational constraints of the regulated river make it difficult to deliver the required volume and depth of water using environmental water allocations. Furthermore, shallow floods may actually provide favourable conditions for growth. This research is particularly relevant for other restoration projects where historical disturbance regimes can only be partially mimicked. Whilst a managed flood regime can be successful in achieving a range of conservation and restoration goals, there may be situations in which river regulation can limit the ability to effectively manage particular species using environmental water allocations alone.
Australian and New Zealand evidence‐based recommendations for pain management by pharmacotherapy in adult patients with inflammatory arthritis
Authors: Richards Bethan L. , Whittle Samuel , Buchbinder Rachelle , Barrett Claire , Lynch Nora , Major Gabor , Littlejohn Geoffrey , Taylor Andrew , Zochling Jane
Published: May 2014

Aim

To develop Australian and New Zealand evidence‐based recommendations for pain management by pharmacotherapy in adult patients with optimally treated inflammatory arthritis (IA).

Methods

Four hundred and fifty‐three rheumatologists from 17 countries including 46 rheumatologists from Australia and New Zealand participated in the 2010 3e (Evidence, Expertise, Exchange) Initiative. Using a formal voting process, rheumatologists from 15 national scientific committees selected 10 clinical questions regarding the use of pain medications in IA. Bibliographic fellows undertook a systematic literature review for each question, using MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL and 2008–09 EULAR/ACR abstracts. Relevant studies were retrieved for data extraction and risk of bias assessment. Rheumatologists from Australia and New Zealand used the evidence to develop a set of national recommendations. These recommendations were then formulated and assessed for agreement and the potential impact on clinical practice. The Oxford Levels of Evidence and Grade of Recommendation were applied to each recommendation.

Results

The systematic reviews identified 49 242 references, from which 167 studies which met the pre‐specified inclusion criteria. Combining this evidence with expert opinion led to the development of 10 final Australian and New Zealand recommendations. The recommendations relate to pain measurement, and the use of analgesic medications in patients with and without co‐morbidities and during pregnancy and lactation. The recommendations reflect the clinical practice of the majority of the participating rheumatologists (mean level of agreement 7.24–9.65).

Conclusions

Ten Australian and New Zealand evidence‐based recommendations regarding the management of pain by pharmacotherapy in adults with optimally treated IA were developed. They are supported by a large panel of rheumatologists, thus enhancing their utility in everyday clinical practice.
Diacylglycerol lipase regulates lifespan and oxidative stress response by inversely modulating TOR signaling in Drosophila and C. elegans
Authors: Lin Yen‐Hung , Chen Yi‐Chun , Kao Tzu‐Yu , Lin Yi‐Chun , Hsu Tzu‐En , Wu Yi‐Chun , Ja William W. , Brummel Theodore J. , Kapahi Pankaj , Yuh Chiou‐Hwa , Yu Lin‐Kwei , Lin Zhi‐Han , You Ru‐Jing , Jhong Yi‐Ting , Wang Horng‐Dar
Published: May 2014

Target of rapamycin (TOR) signaling is a nutrient‐sensing pathway controlling metabolism and lifespan. Although TOR signaling can be activated by a metabolite of diacylglycerol (DAG), phosphatidic acid (PA), the precise genetic mechanism through which DAG metabolism influences lifespan remains unknown. DAG is metabolized to either PA via the action of DAG kinase or 2‐arachidonoyl‐sn‐glycerol by diacylglycerol lipase (DAGL). Here, we report that in Drosophila and Caenorhabditis elegans, overexpression of diacylglycerol lipase (DAGL/inaE/dagl‐1) or knockdown of diacylglycerol kinase (DGK/rdgA/dgk‐5) extends lifespan and enhances response to oxidative stress. Phosphorylated S6 kinase (p‐S6K) levels are reduced following these manipulations, implying the involvement of TOR signaling. Conversely, DAGL/inaE/dagl‐1 mutants exhibit shortened lifespan, reduced tolerance to oxidative stress, and elevated levels of p‐S6K. Additional results from genetic interaction studies are consistent with the hypothesis that DAG metabolism interacts with TOR and S6K signaling to affect longevity and oxidative stress resistance. These findings highlight conserved metabolic and genetic pathways that regulate aging.
Functional and return to work outcomes following major trauma involving severe pelvic ring fracture
Authors: Gabbe Belinda J. , Hofstee Dirk‐Jan , Esser Max , Bucknill Andrew , Russ Matthias K. , Cameron Peter A. , Handley Christopher , de Steiger Richard N.
Published: May 2014

Background

There is limited evidence describing the long‐term outcomes of severe pelvic ring fractures. The aim of this study was to describe the longer term independent living and return to work outcomes following severe pelvic ring fracture.

Methods

Adult survivors to discharge from two major trauma centres with AO/Tile type B and C fractures were followed up at 6, 12 and 24‐months post‐injury to capture functional (Glasgow Outcome Scale‐Extended [GOS‐E]) and return to work data. Multivariable, mixed effects models were used to identify predictors of outcome.

Results

A total of 111 of 114 (97%) cases were followed up. The mean (SD) age of participants was 41.9 (18.9) years, 77% were male, 81% were transport‐related and 90% were multi‐trauma patients. Further, 11% were managed conservatively, 10% with external fixation and 79% with open reduction and internal fixation. At 24 months, 77% were living independently (GOS‐E > 4) and 59% had returned to work. Higher Injury Severity Scores (ISS) were associated with lower risk‐adjusted odds of return to work (P = 0.04) and independent living (P = 0.06). Post‐operative infection was associated with living independently (P = 0.02).

Conclusion

Despite the severity of the injuries sustained, 77% of severe pelvic ring fracture patients were living independently and 59% had returned to work, 2‐years post‐injury. Fracture type and management were not key predictors of outcome. Large‐scale multi‐centre studies are needed to fully understand the burden of severe pelvic ring fractures and to guide clinical management.
Effects of grazing vs mowing on the functional diversity of sub‐Mediterranean productive grasslands
Authors: Catorci Andrea , Cesaretti Sabrina , Malatesta Luca , Tardella Federico M.
Published: May 2014

Questions

In order to preserve the ecosystem functioning of semi‐natural sub‐Mediterranean calcareous grasslands of the Central Apennines, it is vital to understand how functional diversity (FD) changes in relation to different types of disturbance. To compare the effects of sheep grazing and those of late‐summer mowing, we asked: do different types of disturbance (grazing and mowing) affect FD; are FD and species diversity positively correlated in both grazed and mown grasslands; do FD and species diversity take different paths in the two disturbance regimes; and are different FD values related to changes in the composition of traits linked to competitive ability, resource acquisition and resistance strategies?

Location

Grazed and mown sites in the Central Apennines (Italy).

Methods

We performed redundancy analysis and indicator species analysis to characterize the trait composition of the two disturbance regimes. We calculated FD for each selected trait and a compound FD for multiple traits, using Rao's quadratic entropy index. Differences in FD between disturbance regimes were tested with a nested ANOVA. We performed a regression analysis between FD and species diversity indices under the two disturbance types.

Results

Species and functional diversity were positively correlated in both disturbance types. FD was generally less correlated with species diversity variations in mown grasslands than in grazed ones, suggesting that late mowing leads to higher levels of functional redundancy (i.e. to a wider overlap of species functional composition). Late mowing promoted higher species and functional diversities and a wider variety of functional traits in the plant community. Grazing, besides negatively affecting the species diversity of grasslands, reduced their FD by favouring the dominance of traits related to avoidance and tolerance strategies.

Conclusion

The continuation of late mowing is recommended to preserve the richness and variability of functional groups and the ecosystem functioning of sub‐Mediterranean grasslands.
Diagnosis and preoperative imaging of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2: current status and future directions
Authors: Taïeb David , Kebebew Electron , Castinetti Fréderic , Chen Clara C. , Henry Jean‐François , Pacak Karel
Published: May 2014

Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2) is a rare autosomal dominant syndrome caused by mutations in the RET protooncogene and is characterized by a strong penetrance of medullary thyroid carcinoma (all subtypes) and is often accompanied by pheochromocytoma (MEN2A/2B) and primary hyperparathyroidism (MEN2A). The evaluation and management of MEN2‐related tumours is often different from that of sporadic counterparts. This review article provides an overview of clinical manifestations, diagnosis and surgical management of MEN2 patients. This review also presents applications of the most up‐to‐date imaging modalities to MEN2 patients that are tightly linked to the clinical management and aims to guide physicians towards a rationale for the use of imaging prior to prophylactic thyroidectomy, initial surgery and reoperations for persistent/recurrent disease. This review also concludes that, in the near future, it is expected that these patients will indeed benefit from newly developed positron emission tomography approaches which will target peptide receptors and protein kinases. Identification of MEN2‐specific radiopharmaceuticals will also soon arise from molecular profiling studies. Furthermore, subtotal (cortical‐sparing) adrenalectomy, which is a valid option in MEN2 for avoiding long‐term steroid replacement, will benefit from an accurate estimation through imaging of differential adrenocortical function.
Street intercept method: An innovative approach to recruiting young adult high‐risk drinkers
Authors: Graham Kathryn , Bernards Sharon , Clapp John D. , Dumas Tara M. , Kelley‐Baker Tara , Miller Peter G. , Wells Samantha
Published: May 2014

Introduction and Aims

Many young adults are risky drinkers who are often missed by general population surveys. The aim of the present study was to assess factors affecting participation rates in a street intercept approach to recruiting young adult bar‐goers for an online survey.

Design and Methods

Two hundred eighty‐seven young adults were approached as they entered the bar district of a medium‐sized city on two consecutive weekend nights. Of these, 170 met eligibility requirements and were invited to complete a 2 min street survey for which they were paid $5 and given a gift card for $50 or $100 to be redeemed when they completed a follow‐up online survey.

Results

Sixty‐one per cent of eligible persons (n = 104) participated in the street survey, with greater participation on the second night (74% vs. 50%). Sixty‐eight per cent (n = 71) of those who participated in the street survey completed the online survey, with no differences in response by age or student status; however, men were significantly more likely to complete the online survey if they received the higher incentive, had consumed less alcohol and were recruited before midnight. The larger incentive was especially effective at increasing completion rates for men who had consumed a larger amount of alcohol.

Discussion and Conclusions

Street intercept is an effective and efficient recruitment method that can measure both drinking and other experiences in the event and link these data to information collected in follow‐up research. Unlike recruitment through convenience samples, response rates and response bias can also be assessed. [Graham K, Bernards S, Clapp JD, Dumas TM, Kelley‐Baker T, Miller PG, Wells S. Street intercept method: An innovative approach to recruiting young adult high‐risk drinkers. Drug Alcohol Rev 2014; 33:449‐455]
Geotaxis in the springtail Folsomia candida
Authors: Boiteau G. , MacKinley P.
Published: May 2014

Laboratory assays demonstrated the presence of a small positive geotaxis response to a 15° incline by Folsomia candida Willem (Collembola: Isotomidae). Negative phototaxis played an additive role to positive geotaxis when the experimental apparatus were exposed to light. The geotactic response was negatively affected by cold acclimation and decreasing surrounding temperature, but unaffected by food deprivation. The reduced mobility of springtails at low temperature did not seem to play a role in the corresponding decreased geotaxis. The low level of geotaxis and its further decrease with exposure to low temperature support an earlier suggestion that F. candida do not respond to cooling temperatures of fall by relocation to warmer deeper soil layers, but remain in the upper soil layers and increase their cold tolerance to continue foraging in the food‐rich upper soil layers.
Evaluating Drosophila suzukii immunomarking for mark‐capture research
Authors: Klick Jimmy , Lee Jana C. , Hagler James R. , Bruck Denny J. , Yang Wei Q.
Published: May 2014

Drosophila suzukii Matsumura (Diptera: Drosophilidae) utilizes ‘Himalaya’ blackberry, Rubus armeniacus Focke (Rosaceae), as a host and may invade berry and stone fruit crops from field margins containing this invasive weed. Laboratory and semi‐field studies were conducted to determine (1) the persistence of protein marks including 10% chicken egg whites (egg albumin protein), 20% bovine milk (milk casein protein), and 20% soy milk (soy trypsin inhibitor protein) on topically sprayed D. suzukii, (2) protein retention on blackberry leaves, and (3) D. suzukii acquisition of protein after exposure to marked blackberry leaves for up to 14 days after application. All flies and leaves were assayed for the presence of the protein marks using protein‐specific enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays. Egg albumin, milk casein, and soy trypsin proteins persisted on 94, 49, and 25% of the topically marked D. suzukii, respectively, throughout the 14‐day study period. Egg albumin was retained on 100% of treated leaves for 14 days, regardless of environmental conditions. At least 50% of flies exposed residually to egg albumin‐treated leaves were marked for 3 days, regardless of exposure time and environmental conditions. However, increasing fly exposure time to treated leaves in April and June appeared to improve protein mark acquisition. Acquisition of protein by flies from treated leaves for milk casein was inconsistent, and poor for soy trypsin, despite detectable levels on treated leaves. Egg albumin had the longest and most consistent persistence on flies, leaves, and flies exposed to leaves in laboratory and semi‐field studies, under a variety of environmental conditions and exposure times.
Senescence of bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells is accompanied by activation of p53/p21 pathway in myelodysplastic syndromes
Authors: Fei Chengming , Zhao Youshan , Guo Juan , Gu Shucheng , Li Xiao , Chang Chunkang
Published: May 2014

The contribution of bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BMMSCs) to the pathogenesis of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) has created controversies. In this study, we confirmed that BMMSCs from MDS patients showed prominent features of senescence, which were characterized by increased cell size, decreased proliferation and colony‐forming potential, alteration of cytoskeleton, and increased senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase (SA‐β‐Gal) activity. Interestingly, the apoptosis assay results showed that the percentage of apoptosis cells was very low and the difference was not significant between MDS patients and normal controls. Moreover, the osteogenic differentiation potential of BMMSCs from lower risk but not higher risk MDS was impaired, indicated by cytochemical stainings and reduced expressions of RUNX2. In addition, BMMSCs from MDS patients had impaired hematopoietic supporting function. Furthermore, the expression of p53 and p21 which played an important role in regulating the senescence progress of BMMSCs was significantly increased, whereas levels of p16 and pRb expression were not changed in the BMMSCs from MDS patients. Taken together, our comprehensive analysis shows that BMMSCs from MDS patients exhibited senescent behavior and activation of p53/p21 pathway probably played an important role in the senescence process.
Usefulness and safety of oral cryotherapy in the prevention of oral mucositis after conditioning regimens with high‐dose melphalan for autologous stem cell transplantation for lymphoma and myeloma
Authors: Batlle Montserrat , Morgades Mireia , Vives Susana , Ferrà Christelle , Oriol Albert , Sancho Juan‐Manuel , Xicoy Blanca , Moreno Miriam , Magallón Laura , Ribera Josep‐Maria
Published: May 2014

Background

Oral mucositis (OM) is a common complication of conditioning regimens with high‐dose melphalan (HDmel). This retrospective cohort study analyzes the impact of oral cryotherapy (OC) or room temperature saline rinses on the prevention of OM in patients with multiple myeloma (MM) or lymphoid neoplasias submitted to autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) in a single center.

Patients and methods

From August 2006 to July 2011, 134 consecutive patients were enrolled. Two consecutive groups were included: Non‐OC (August 2006 to April 2009, 68 patients) and OC (May 2009 to July 2011, 66 cases). MM cases (78, 58%) received HDmel as the conditioning regimen and 56 patients (42%) with lymphoma received BEAM.

Results

The non‐OC and OC groups were comparable for the main clinicobiologic features and type of neoplasia. OM was more frequent and severe in patients receiving BEAM as the conditioning therapy. The group of OC showed less frequent and less severe mucositis and fewer days on antibiotics. No differences were observed in the duration of OM, need for parenteral nutrition and narcotics, and the length of hospital stay on comparison with the OC and non‐OC groups. By multivariate analyses, OC was an independent favorable prognostic factor for OM development.

Conclusions

This study shows that OC is more effective than saline rinses in the prevention of OM in patients with lymphoma and myeloma receiving conditioning regimens with HDmel for ASCT.
Subthreshold delta‐frequency resonance in thalamic reticular neurons
Authors: Ulrich Daniel
Published: May 2014

The thalamic reticular nucleus (nRt) is an assembly of GABAergic projection neurons that participate in the generation of brain rhythms during synchronous sleep and absence epilepsy. NRt cells receive inhibitory and excitatory synaptic inputs, and are endowed with an intricate set of intrinsic conductances. However, little is known about how intrinsic and synaptic properties interact to generate rhythmic discharges in these neurons. In order to better understand this interaction, I studied the subthreshold responses of nRt cells to time‐varying inputs. Patch‐clamp recordings were performed in acute slices of rat thalamus (postnatal days 12–21). Sinusoidal current waveforms of linearly changing frequencies were injected into the soma, and the resulting voltage oscillations were recorded. At the resting membrane potential, the impedance profile showed a characteristic resonance at 1.7 Hz. The relative strength of the resonance was 1.2, and increased with membrane hyperpolarization. Small suprathreshold current injections led to preferred spike generation at the resonance frequency. Bath application of ZD7288 or Cs+, inhibitors of the hyperpolarization‐activated cation current (Ih), transformed the resonance into low‐pass behaviour, whereas the T‐channel blockers mibefradil and Ni2+ decreased the strength of the resonance. It is concluded that nRt cells have an Ih‐mediated intrinsic frequency preference in the subthreshold voltage range that favours action potential generation in the delta‐frequency band.
Influences of Relatedness, Food Deprivation, and Sex on Adult Behaviors in the Group‐living InsectForficula auricularia
Authors: Weiß Charlotte , Kramer Jos , Holländer Kai , Meunier Joël
Published: May 2014

The evolution of group living is generally associated with the emergence of social behaviors that ensure fitness benefits to group members. However, the expression of these behaviors may depend on group composition, which can vary over time with respect to sex, starvation status, and relatedness. Here, we investigated (1) whether adults of the group‐livingEuropean earwig,Forficula auricularia, show cooperative behaviors toward conspecifics and (2) whether sex, food availability, and relatedness shape the nature and frequency of these behaviors. We conducted a full‐factorial experiment using 108 unisexual pairs of adults, in which we manipulated these three factors and video‐recorded the earwig behaviors for 45 min. Our results revealed that adults mostly expressed self‐directed and aggressive behaviors. Nevertheless, they also showed allogrooming, a social behavior that offers scope for cooperation. Pairs of males displayed longer bouts of aggression and allogrooming (when it occurred) than pairs of females. Food deprivation had no effect on male behaviors, but females spent less time self‐grooming and walking when they were food deprived. Finally, low relatedness between adults did not influence any of the measured behaviors, but exacerbated frass production, possibly due to social stress. Overall, these results indicate the limited role of cooperation amongF. auriculariaadults during their group‐living phase.