bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reversible colour change in Arthropoda
Authors: Umbers Kate D. L. , Fabricant Scott A. , Gawryszewski Felipe M. , Seago Ainsley E. , Herberstein Marie E.
Published: February 2014

The mechanisms and functions of reversible colour change in arthropods are highly diverse despite, or perhaps due to, the presence of an exoskeleton. Physiological colour changes, which have been recorded in 90 arthropod species, are rapid and are the result of changes in the positioning of microstructures or pigments, or in the refractive index of layers in the integument. By contrast, morphological colour changes, documented in 31 species, involve the anabolism or catabolism of components (e.g. pigments) directly related to the observable colour. In this review we highlight the diversity of mechanisms by which reversible colour change occurs and the evolutionary context and diversity of arthropod taxa in which it has been observed. Further, we discuss the functions of reversible colour change so far proposed, review the limited behavioural and ecological data, and argue that the field requires phylogenetically controlled approaches to understanding the evolution of reversible colour change. Finally, we encourage biologists to explore new model systems for colour change and to engage scientists from other disciplines; continued cross‐disciplinary collaboration is the most promising approach to this nexus of biology, physics, and chemistry.
Review: The impact of motor development on typical and atypical social cognition and language: a systematic review
Authors: Leonard Hayley C. , Hill Elisabeth L.
Published: February 2014

Background

Motor development allows infants to gain knowledge of the world but its vital role in social development is often ignored.

Method

A systematic search for papers investigating the relationship between motor and social skills was conducted, including research in typical development and in Developmental Coordination Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorders and Specific Language Impairment.

Results

The search identified 43 studies, many of which highlighted a significant relationship between motor skills and the development of social cognition, language and social interactions.

Conclusions

This complex relationship requires more attention from researchers and practitioners, allowing the development of more tailored intervention techniques for those at risk of motor, social and language difficulties.
Effects of Photodynamic Process (PDP) in Implant Osseointegration: A Histologic and Histometric Study in Dogs
Authors: Faria Paulo Esteves Pinto , Felipucci Daniela Nair Borges , Simioni Andreza Ribeiro , Primo Fernando Lucas , Tedesco Antonio Cláudio , Salata Luiz Antonio
Published: February 2014

Background

The combination between photosensitivity substances with laser or light‐emitting diode (LED) form the photodynamic therapy basis that consists of photosensitivity drug activated by low‐frequency light. This mechanism is used in soft tissue healing process to improve the oxygen tension leading to a fast revascularization.

Purpose

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of photosensitivity drugs activated through LED on osseointegration process.

Materials and Methods

Eight mongrel dogs underwent implant therapy in four mandibular bone defects using 5.0 mm trephine drill on each side of the mandible. The defects were randomly filled up with (1) Nano emulsion, (2) liposome, (3) blood clot, and (4) autogenous bone. LED with visible and infrared light were applied after 48/72 postoperative hours on four dogs and after 96/120 postoperative hours in the other four dogs. All the animals were euthanized at 15 days after surgery. Ground sections slides were prepared from the experimental site for histomorphometry and histological analysis.

Results

No difference was detected in the following parameters: bone‐implant contact, bone inside the defect and crest level on LED 48/72. Significant difference was detected inside the defect when filled with autogenous bone (p = .0238) on LED 96/120. When LED 48/72 and LED 96/120 were compared, significant higher bone formation was detected when autogenous bone on bone‐implant contact (p = .0043) and bone inside the defect (p = .0008) was used.

Conclusion

The use of photosensitivity drugs activated by LED demonstrated a tendency to stimulate bone formation, similar to autogenous bone graft on later time point.
Lung abscess combined with chronic osteomyelitis of the mandible successfully treated with video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery
Authors: Arai Hiromasa , Inui Kenji , Watanabe Keisuke , Watanuki Kei , Okudela Koji , Tsuboi Masahiro , Masuda Munetaka
Published: February 2014

With the progress of antibiotic therapy, the mortality of lung abscess has been improved, and surgical intervention has declined. However, surgery is still required in selected cases that are intractable to antibiotic treatment. Video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is beneficial for treatment and/or diagnosis of pulmonary disease as it provides a less invasive surgical technique and reduces prolongation of post‐operative recovery. However, the indication of VATS lobectomy for lung abscess is controversial as a result of particular complications, i.e. wet lung, intrapleural adhesion and ease of bleeding. We herein report a rare combination of lung abscess and osteomyelitis of mandible resulting from the same pathogen successfully treated with VATS lobectomy. We propose VATS lobectomy for lung abscess. This procedure might be the best treatment candidate for selected cases of lung abscess.
Endoscopic treatment of native lung hyperinflation using endobronchial valves in single‐lung transplant patients: a multinational experience
Authors: Perch Michael , Riise Gerdt C. , Hogarth Kyle , Musani Ali I. , Springmeyer Steven C. , Gonzalez Xavier , Iversen Martin
Published: February 2014

Background

Hyperinflation of the native lung (NLH) is a known complication to single‐lung transplantation for emphysema. The hyperinflation can lead to compression of the graft and cause respiratory failure. Endobronchial valves have been used to block airflow in specific parts of the native lung, reducing the native lung volume and relieving the graft.

Objective

We report short‐term follow‐up and safety from 14 single‐lung transplant patients with NLH treated with bronchoscopic lung volume reduction using endobronchial valves.

Methods

Retrospective clinical information related to endobronchial valve treatment was obtained from four centres. All patients were treated with IBVTM Valve System (Spiration, Olympus Respiratory America, Redmond, WA, USA). All patients had evidence of severe NLH with mediastinal displacement.

Results

A total of 74 IBV valves were placed in 14 patients, with an average of 5.3 (range 2–10). Five patients had two procedures with staged treatment. Eleven patients reported symptom relief, and nine had lung function improvements. There was a significant increase in forced expiratory volume in 1 s of 9% (P = 0.013) and forced vital capacity of 15% (P = 0.034) within the first months after treatment. There were no reported device‐related adverse events nor reports of migration. Two patients had pneumothorax. One patient had pneumonia in the location of the valve placement, and another had infection within days. Three other patients were hospitalised with infection 2 months after treatment.

Conclusions

Treating NLH with IBV endobronchial valves leads to clinical improvement in the majority of patients, and the treatment has an acceptable safety.
Leukotriene D4 inhalation challenge for predicting short‐term efficacy of montelukast: a pilot study
Authors: Guan Wei‐jie , Shi Xu , Zheng Jin‐ping , Gao Yi , Jiang Cai‐yu , Xie Yan‐qing , Liu Qing‐xia , Zhu Zheng , Guo E , An Jia‐ying , Yu Xin‐xin , Liu Wen‐ting , Zhong Nan‐shan
Published: February 2014

Introduction

The convenient measure to predict efficacy of leukotriene receptor antagonist is lacking.

Objectives

To determine if leukotriene D4 inhalation challenge predicts short‐term efficacy of montelukast in asthma.

Methods

In this open‐labelled 28‐day trial, 45 patients with asthma were allocated to leukotriene‐sensitive and leukotriene‐insensitive group to receive montelukast monotherapy (10 mg, once daily) based on the positive threshold of leukotriene D4 inhalation challenge test (4.800 nmol). Miscellaneous measurements comprised fractional exhaled nitric oxide, methacholine inhalation challenge, Asthma Control Test and Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire. Peak expiratory flow was self‐monitored throughout the treatment. End point assessments were performed 3 to 5 days after montelukast withdrawal. (Registration: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01414868?term=NCT01414868&rank=1)

Results

Twenty‐three patients in leukotriene‐sensitive group and 10 leukotriene‐insensitive group completed the study. Both groups differed neither in 28‐day peak expiratory flow rate nor in maximal weekly peak expiratory flow (both P > 0.05). However, minimal weekly peak expiratory flow was significantly higher in leukotriene‐insensitive group throughout the treatment course (all P < 0.05) except for week 1 (P > 0.05). Both groups did not differ statistically in the post‐treatment improvement in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) predicted% prior to inhalation challenge, fractional exhaled nitric oxide or the airway responsiveness to leukotriene D4 or methacholine (all P > 0.05). There was a marked increase in Asthma Control Test score and the symptom score of Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire in both groups (both P < 0.05). The overall significance of Logistic regression model was unremarkable (P = 0.467).

Conclusion

Responsiveness to inhaled leukotriene D4 alone might not be sufficient to predict the short‐term efficacy of montelukast monotherapy in patients with asthma.
Role of BK virus infection in end‐stage renal disease patients waiting for kidney transplantation – viral replication dynamics from pre‐ to post‐transplant
Authors: Mitterhofer Anna Paola , Tinti Francesca , Pietropaolo Valeria , Umbro Ilaria , Anzivino Elena , Bellizzi Anna , Zavatto Assunta , Poli Luca , Berloco Pasquale Bartolomeo , Taliani Gloria
Published: February 2014

We report the prevalence of BK virus (BKV) infection before renal transplantation and the dynamics of BKV viremia from pre‐ to post‐transplantation. We assessed 60 kidney transplanted patients from a single cohort in Italy, treated with identical immunosuppressive therapy, for BK viremia at pre‐transplantation, 12 h, and three and six months post‐transplantation. Polymerase chain reaction showed that the prevalence of plasma BKV replication – considered a marker of infection – was 20% in pre‐transplant patients. All pre‐transplant‐positive patients remained positive post‐transplant, whereas the majority of pre‐transplant‐negative patients remained negative. Viremia dynamics classification revealed three clusters of patients: Cluster A++, pre‐transplant‐positive patients (20%) who tested positive at least once post‐transplant; Cluster B−+, pre‐transplant‐negative patients (28%) who tested positive at least once post‐transplant; and Cluster C– –, pre‐transplant‐negative patients (52%) who remained negative throughout. These clusters presented significant differences related to the prevalence of substantially positive patients with high plasma viral load (>103 copies/mL) in cluster A, but not in donors’ or grafts’ characteristics. We suggest that pre‐transplant viral status should be considered as an additional risk factor for post‐transplant BKV replication. Therefore, pre‐transplant BKV infection screening in kidney transplant patients should be performed for improving planning of personalized immunosuppressant schemes and specific post‐transplant surveillance.
Radiation exposure and attributed cancer risk following lung transplantation
Authors: Rosengarten Dror , Raviv Yael , Rusanov Victoria , Moreh‐Rahav Osnat , Fruchter Oren , Allen Aaron M. , Kramer Mordechai R.
Published: February 2014

Background

Lung transplant recipients are exposed to radiation from various imaging procedures during surveillance; however, the cumulative radiation exposure and subsequent cancer risk after lung transplantation is not known.

Methods

We included all patients who underwent lung transplantation at our institute since January 2000 and survived at least four‐yr follow‐up continued until March 21, 2012 or until death. We identified all procedures with radiation exposure and all malignancies that developed during the study period. Estimation of the effective dose exposure and subsequent cancer risk was derived from previous reports.

Results

The study included 107 patients. Mean follow‐up was 6.49 ± 1.74 yr. Radiation exposure during mean follow‐up was 137.8 mSv, and the total cumulative exposure over 11 yr reached 205.25 mSv. This represents an additional cancer risk of 0.55% and 0.82%, respectively. Twenty‐four cases of cancer in 21 patients (19.6%) were identified. The difference between the radiation exposure in the patients who developed cancer and in the cancer‐free patients was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Lung transplant recipients are exposed to 7.8 times greater radiation dose from medical imaging compared to the general population. Nevertheless, the lifetime increase in cancer risk due to radiation is small.
Indications and outcomes of pancreatic surgery after liver transplantation
Authors: Mejia Juan , Sucandy Iswanto , Steel Jennifer , Golas Benjamin , Humar Abhinav , Lee Kenneth , Zeh Herbert , Marsh James , Tsung Allan
Published: February 2014

Background

Prior liver transplantation and immunosuppression potentially translate into significant morbidity and poor outcomes after any type of pancreatic surgery. Little is known about the outcomes of pancreatic surgery after liver transplantation. This study was designed to review our experience regarding the indications and outcomes of pancreatic surgery following liver transplantation.

Methods

A retrospective review of all liver transplant recipients who underwent pancreatic surgery between 1991 and 2009 was performed.

Results

A total of 3196 patients underwent liver transplantation, of whom 18 (0.6%) subsequently required pancreatic surgery. The most common indications were necrotizing pancreatitis and lesions of the head and tail of the pancreas. Procedures performed included pancreaticoduodenectomy, distal pancreatectomy, and pancreatic necrosectomy. The estimated blood loss was 500 mL and operative time was 430 ± 224 min. Pathology results revealed malignant lesions in six (33%) patients, pre‐malignant lesions in 2 (11%) patients, and benign lesions in 10 (56%) patients. The median time from transplantation to pancreatic surgery was 61 months. The 30‐d postoperative complication rate was 77.8%, with median hospital stay of 15 d. The three‐, 12‐, and 24‐month survival rates were 78%, 48%, and 24%, respectively.

Conclusions

Pancreatic surgery after liver transplantation results in significant 30‐d complications. Prior liver transplantation, however, should not be a contraindication for subsequent pancreatic surgery, due to its decent survival outcome.
The discard of deceased donor kidneys in the UK
Authors: Callaghan Chris J. , Harper Simon J.F. , Saeb‐Parsy Kourosh , Hudson Alex , Gibbs Paul , Watson Christopher J.E. , Praseedom Raaj K. , Butler Andrew J. , Pettigrew Gavin J. , Bradley J. Andrew
Published: February 2014

It is essential to minimize the unnecessary discard of procured deceased donor kidneys, but information on discard rates and the extent to which discard can be avoided are limited. Analysis of the UK Transplant Registry revealed that the discard rate of procured deceased donor kidneys has increased from 5% in 2002‐3 to 12% in 2011‐12. A national offering system for hard‐to‐place kidneys was introduced in the UK in 2006 (the Declined Kidney Scheme), but just 13% of kidneys that were subsequently discarded until 2012 were offered through the scheme. In order to examine the appropriateness of discard, 20 consecutive discarded kidneys from 13 deceased donors were assessed to determine if surgeons agreed with the decision that they were not implantable. Donors had a median (range) age of 67 (31–80) yr. Kidneys had been offered to a median of 3 (1–12) centers before discard. Four (20%) of the discarded kidneys were thought to be usable, and nine (45%) were possibly usable. As a result of these findings, major changes to the UK deceased donor kidney offering system have been implemented, including simultaneous offering and broader entry criteria for hard‐to‐place kidneys. Organizational changes are necessary to improve utilization of deceased donor kidneys.
The efficiency of Gd‐EOB‐DTPA‐enhanced magnetic resonance cholangiography in living donor liver transplantation: a preliminary study
Authors: Ogul Hayri , Kantarci Mecit , Pirimoglu Berhan , Karaca Leyla , Aydinli Bulent , Okur Aylin , Ozturk Gurkan , Kizrak Yesim
Published: February 2014

The aim of this study was to evaluate utility of gadoxetic acid disodium (Gd‐EOB‐DTPA)‐enhanced magnetic resonance cholangiography (MRC) for the detection of biliary complications after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). A total of 18 patients with suspected biliary complications underwent MRC. T2‐weighted MRC and contrast‐enhanced MRC (CE‐MRC) were used to identify the biliary complications. MRC included routine breath‐hold T2‐weighted MRC using half‐Fourier acquisition single‐shot turbo spin‐echo (HASTE) sequences and Gd‐EOB‐DTPA‐enhanced MRC T1‐weighted volumetric interpolated breath‐hold examination (VIBE) sequences. Before confirming the biliary complications, one observer reviewed the MRC images and the CE‐MRC images separately. The verification procedures and MRC findings were compared, and the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of both techniques were calculated for the identification of biliary complications. The observer found six of seven biliary complications using CE‐MRC. The sensitivity was 85.7% and the accuracy was 94.4%. Using MRC alone, sensitivity was 57.1% and accuracy was 55.5%. The accuracy of Gd‐EOB‐DTPA‐enhanced MRC was superior to MRC in locating biliary leaks (p < 0.05). The usage of Gd‐EOB‐DTPA‐enhanced MRC yields information that complements the MRC findings that improve the identification of biliary complications. We recommend the use of MRC in addition to Gd‐EOB‐DTPA‐enhanced MRC to increase the preoperative accuracy when assessing the biliary complications after LDLT.
Cardiac Sarcoid: A Chameleon Masquerading as Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy and Dilated Cardiomyopathy in the Same Patient
Authors: Agarwal Anushree , Sulemanjee Nasir Z. , Cheema Omar , Downey Francis X. , Tajik A. Jamil
Published: February 2014

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem, granulomatous disease of unknown etiology often seen in young adults, with cardiac involvement in more than one‐quarter of sarcoid patients. The clinical presentation of cardiac sarcoid depends upon the location and extent of myocardium involved. Although cardiac sarcoid may produce asymmetrical septal hypertrophy, it is most commonly considered in the differential diagnosis of dilated cardiomyopathy. The hypertrophic stage of cardiac sarcoid is rarely seen. We describe a case of cardiac sarcoid in a young patient wherein a distinctive appearance of the cardiac sarcoid spectrum from “hypertrophic” stage to thinned/scarred stage, masquerading as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy followed by dilated cardiomyopathy, is demonstrated.
Factors Predicting Long‐Term Mortality in Patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Bostan Cem , Sinan Umit Yasar , Canbolat Polat , Abaci Okay , Munipoglu Sezer Karcier , Kucukoglu Serdar
Published: February 2014

Objectives

In this study, we aimed to elucidate the factors affecting long‐term all‐cause mortality in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).

Method

We retrospectively examined 31 patients (22 males and 9 females) diagnosed with HCM from 1999 to 2013. All subjects had sinus rhythm at the time of evaluation. Four patients had history of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF). In addition to echocardiographic examination plasma angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) activity and gene polymorphism were determined. The variables that were found to be significant in mortality were then included in multivariate analysis.

Results

At the final follow‐up examination, 12 patients had died, including 2 due to congestive heart failure and 10 due to sudden cardiac death. Patients with PAF had significantly higher mortality (P = 0.008). Moreover, left ventricular (LV) end‐diastolic diameter (P = 0.04), LV systolic diameter (P = 0.001), LV mass index (P = 0.01), and left atrium diameter (P = 0.003) were found to be significantly correlated with mortality. However, no significant correlation was noted between mortality and age, type of HCM (familial/nonfamilial and obstructive/nonobstructive), ACE gene polymorphism, and plasma ACE level. In the multivariate analysis, left atrial (LA) diameter was still significantly associated with mortality. The LA diameter with a cutoff value of 4.1 cm predicted 13‐year mortality with a sensitivity of 82% and specificity of 78%.

Conclusion

Instead of the ACE genotype and activity, echocardiographic evaluation findings such as LV systolic and diastolic diameters, LV mass index, and particularly LA dimension may predict long‐term mortality in patients with HCM. PAF has also significant importance in the long‐term mortality in patients with HCM.
Left Ventricular Mechanical Discoordination in Nonischemic Hearts: Relationship with Left Ventricular Function, Geometry, and Electrical Dyssynchrony
Authors: Shimamoto Shinsaku , Ito Takahide , Nogi Shimpei , Kizawa Shun , Ishizaka Nobukazu
Published: February 2014

Background

Mechanical discoordination (MD) is known as a myocardial deformation of opposite strain during ejection, reflecting dyssynchronous electrical activation. We used speckle tracking echocardiography to examine the relationship between MD, left ventricular (LV) function and geometry, as well as electrical dyssynchrony in various nonischemic hearts.

Methods and Results

We examined 131 subjects (left bundle branch block [LBBB] 27; dilated cardiomyopathy [DCM] without LBBB 33; LV hypertrophy 28; and normal heart 43) using circumferential strain rate analysis. Integration of positive (stretch) and negative (shortening) components during the ejection time was obtained in the mid‐ventricular level for 6 myocardial segments, and MD was quantified as the stretch to shortening ratio (SSR). The SSR in the septal region (anteroseptal and septal segments) was markedly elevated in the LBBB and DCM groups compared with the other groups. With univariate analysis, SSR over the septal region was found to be correlated with QRS duration, LV end‐diastolic dimension, and LV ejection fraction. Multivariate analysis revealed that QRS duration and LV ejection fraction were significant independent determinants of SSR for the septal region.

Conclusions

In nonischemic hearts, electrical dyssynchrony and LV dysfunction may contribute synergistically to MD in the septal region. The finding that non‐LBBB DCM patients exhibited a certain amount of SSR may provide new insight into therapeutic strategies for cardiac resynchronization therapy.
CB1 augments mGluR5 function in medial prefrontal cortical neurons to inhibit amygdala hyperactivity in an arthritis pain model
Authors: Ji Guangchen , Neugebauer Volker
Published: February 2014

The medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) serves executive control functions and forms direct connections with subcortical areas such as the amygdala. Our previous work showed abnormal inhibition of mPFC pyramidal cells and hyperactivity of amygdala output neurons in an arthritis pain model. To restore mPFC activity and hence control pain‐related amygdala hyperactivity this study focused on CB1 and mGluR5 receptors, which are important modulators of cortical functions. Extracellular single‐unit recordings of infralimbic mPFC pyramidal cells and of amygdala output neurons in the laterocapsular division of the central nucleus (CeLC) were made in anesthetised adult male rats. mPFC neurons were classified as ‘excited’ or ‘inhibited’ based on their response to brief innocuous and noxious test stimuli. After arthritis pain induction, background activity and evoked responses of excited neurons and background activity and inhibition of inhibited neurons decreased. Stereotaxic application of an mGluR5‐positive allosteric modulator (N‐cyclobutyl‐6‐((3‐fluorophenyl)ethynyl) nicotinamide hydrochloride, VU0360172) into the mPFC increased background and evoked activity of excited, but not inhibited, mPFC neurons under normal conditions but not in arthritis. A selective CB1 receptor agonist (arachidonyl‐2‐chloroethylamide) alone had no effect but restored the facilitatory effects of VU0360172 in the pain model. Coactivation of CB1 and mGluR5 in the mPFC inhibited the pain‐related activity increase of CeLC neurons but had no effect under normal conditions. The data suggest that excited mPFC neurons are inversely linked to amygdala output (CeLC) and that CB1 can increase mGluR5 function in this subset of mPFC neurons to engage cortical control of abnormally enhanced amygdala output in pain.
From genes to pain: nerve growth factor and hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy type V
Authors: Capsoni Simona
Published: February 2014

Hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy type V (HSAN V) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by the loss of deep pain perception. The anomalous pain and temperature sensations are due to the absence of nociceptive sensory innervation. The neurotrophin nerve growth factor (NGF), by binding to tropomyosin receptor A (TrkA) and p75NTR receptors, is essential for the development and survival of sensory neurons, and for pain perception during adulthood. Recently a homozygous missense mutation (R100W) in the NGF gene has been identified in HSAN V patients. Interestingly, alterations in NGF signalling, due to mutations in the NGF TRKA gene, have also been involved in another congenital insensitivity to pain, HSAN IV, characterized not only by absence of reaction to painful stimuli, but also anhidrosis and mental retardation. These symptoms are absent in HSAN V patients. Unravelling the mechanisms that underlie the differences between HSAN IV and V could assist in better understanding NGF biology. This review highlights the recent key findings in the understanding of HSAN V, including insights into the molecular mechanisms of the disease, derived from genetic studies of patients with this disorder.
N‐methylmesoporphyrin IX fluorescence as a reporter of strand orientation in guanine quadruplexes
Authors: Sabharwal Navin C. , Savikhin Victoria , Turek‐Herman Joshua R. , Nicoludis John M. , Szalai Veronika A. , Yatsunyk Liliya A.
Published: February 2014

Guanine quadruplexes (GQ) are four‐stranded DNA structures formed by guanine‐rich DNA sequences. The formation of GQs inhibits cancer cell growth, although the detection of GQs in vivo has proven difficult, in part because of their structural diversity. The development of GQ‐selective fluorescent reporters would enhance our ability to quantify the number and location of GQs, ultimately advancing biological studies of quadruplex relevance and function. N‐methylmesoporphyrin IX (NMM) interacts selectively with parallel‐stranded GQs; in addition, its fluorescence is sensitive to the presence of DNA, making this ligand a possible candidate for a quadruplex probe. In the present study, we investigated the effect of DNA secondary structure on NMM fluorescence. We found that NMM fluorescence increases by about 60‐fold in the presence of parallel‐stranded GQs and by about 40‐fold in the presence of hybrid GQs. Antiparallel GQs lead to lower than 10‐fold increases in NMM fluorescence. Single‐stranded DNA, duplex, or i‐motif, induce no change in NMM fluorescence. We conclude that NMM shows promise as a ‘turn‐on’ fluorescent probe for detecting quadruplex structures, as well as for differentiating them on the basis of strand orientation.
The crayfish plague pathogen can infect freshwater‐inhabiting crabs
Authors: Svoboda Jiří , Strand David A. , Vrålstad Trude , Grandjean Frédéric , Edsman Lennart , Kozák Pavel , Kouba Antonín , Fristad Rosa F. , Bahadir Koca Seval , Petrusek Adam
Published: February 2014

The oomycete Aphanomyces astaci is generally considered a parasite specific to freshwater crayfish, and it has become known as the crayfish plague pathogen. Old experimental work that reported transmission of crayfish plague to the Chinese mitten crab Eriocheir sinensis, and the ability of A. astaci to grow in non‐decapod crustaceans, has never been tested properly.

We re‐evaluated the host range of A. astaci by screening for the presence of A. astaci in two crab species cohabiting with infected crayfish in fresh waters, as well as in other higher crustaceans from such localities. The animals were tested with species‐specific quantitative PCR, and the pathogen determination was confirmed by sequencing of an amplified fragment of the nuclear internal transcribed spacer. Furthermore, we examined microscopically cuticle samples from presumably infected crab individuals for the presence of A. astaci‐like hyphae and checked for the presence of pathogen DNA in such samples.

Screenings of benthopelagic mysids, amphipods and benthic isopods did not suggest infection by A. astaci in non‐decapod crustaceans. In contrast, both studied lake populations of crabs (a native semiterrestrial species Potamon potamios in Turkey, and an invasive catadromous E. sinensis in Sweden) were infected with this parasite according to both molecular and microscopic evidence.

Analyses of polymorphic microsatellite loci demonstrated that A. astaci strains in the crabs and in cohabiting crayfish belonged to the same genotype group, suggesting crayfish as the source for crab infection.

The potential for A. astaci transmission in the opposite direction, from crabs to crayfish, and potential impact of this pathogen on populations of freshwater crabs require further investigations, because of possible consequences for crayfish and freshwater crab conservation and aquaculture.
A reassessment of global bioenergy potential in 2050
Authors: Searle Stephanie , Malins Chris
Published: February 2014

Many climate change mitigation strategies rely on strong projected growth in biomass energy, supported by literature estimating high future bioenergy potential. However, expectations to 2050 are highly divergent. Examining the most widely cited studies finds that some assumptions in these models are inconsistent with the best available evidence. By identifying literature‐supported, up‐to‐date assumptions for parameters including crop yields, land availability, and costs, we revise upper‐end estimates of potential biomass availability from dedicated energy crops. Even allowing for the conversion of virtually all ‘unused’ grassland and savannah, we find that the maximum plausible limit to sustainable energy crop production in 2050 would be 40–110 EJ yr−1. Combined with forestry, crop residues, and wastes, the maximum limit to long‐term total biomass availability is 60–120 EJ yr−1 in primary energy. After accounting for current trends in bioenergy allocation and conversion losses, we estimate maximum potentials of 10–20 EJ yr−1 of biofuel, 20–40 EJ yr−1 of electricity, and 10–30 EJ yr−1 of heating in 2050. These findings suggest that many technical projections and aspirational goals for future bioenergy use could be difficult or impossible to achieve sustainably.
Multicenter validation study of anti‐programmed cell death‐1 antibody as a serological marker for type 1 autoimmune hepatitis
Authors: Miyake Yasuhiro , Yamamoto Kazuhide , Matsushita Hiroshi , Abe Masanori , Takahashi Atsushi , Umemura Takeji , Tanaka Atsushi , Nakamuta Makoto , Nakamoto Yasunari , Ueno Yoshiyuki , Saibara Toshiji , Takikawa Hajime , Yoshizawa Kaname , Ohira Hiromasa , Zeniya Mikio , Onji Morikazu , Tsubouchi Hirohito ,   Intractable Hepato‐Biliary Disease Study Group of Japan
Published: February 2014

Aim

Recently, serum levels of anti‐programmed cell death‐1 (anti‐PD‐1) antibodies have been reported to be useful for the discrimination of type 1 autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) from drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) and to be associated with clinical features of type 1 AIH. This multicenter study aimed to validate the usefulness of serum anti‐PD‐1 antibody as a serological marker for type 1 AIH.

Methods

Serum samples before the initiation of corticosteroid treatment were obtained from 71 type 1 AIH patients and 37 DILI patients. Serum levels of anti‐PD‐1 antibodies were measured by indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Serum levels of anti‐PD‐1 antibodies were higher in type 1 AIH patients than in DILI patients (P < 0.001). The receiver–operator curve analysis showed that serum levels of anti‐PD‐1 antibodies were useful for the discrimination of type 1 AIH from DILI (area under the curve, 0.80). On the other hand, the multivariate Cox proportional hazard model showed that positivity for serum anti‐PD‐1 antibody, probable diagnosis based on the revised scoring system proposed by the International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group, and prothrombin activity of less than 60% were associated with the later normalization of serum transaminase levels. During the clinical course, the disease relapsed more frequently in patients positive for serum anti‐PD‐1 antibody (36% vs 11%).

Conclusion

This study suggests that serum anti‐PD‐1 antibody is useful for the diagnosis of type 1 AIH as an auxiliary diagnostic marker, and that serum levels of anti‐PD‐1 antibodies reflect clinical features of type 1 AIH.
Clinical outcome and prognostic factors of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and extrahepatic metastasis treated with sorafenib
Authors: Kawaoka Tomokazu , Aikata Hiroshi , Kan Hiromi , Fujino Hatsue , Fukuhara Takayuki , Kobayashi Tomoki , Naeshiro Noriaki , Miyaki Daisuke , Hiramatsu Akira , Imamura Michio , Kawakami Yoshiiku , Hyogo Hideyuki , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: February 2014

Aim

The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical outcome and identify prognostic factors following treatment of patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and extrahepatic metastasis with sorafenib.

Methods

Sixty‐one HCC patients with extrahepatic metastasis who were treated with sorafenib were enrolled in this retrospective cohort study.

Results

The median survival time (MST) of all patients was 11 months. The median time to radiological progression was 4.2 months. The response rates (complete response [CR] + partial response [PR]) by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) and modified RECIST were 3.0% and 8.0%, respectively, while the disease control rates (CR + PR + stable disease) were 49% and 49%, respectively. Multivariate analysis identified T factor (intrahepatic tumor stage, T 0–2), response to disease control and des‐γ‐carboxy prothrombin (<2600 mAU/mL) as significant and independent determinants of survival. Intrahepatic tumor stage before treatment allows stratification of prognosis of patients treated with sorafenib. Four T0 patients remained alive. The MST of patients with T1 (n = 6), T2 (n = 10), T3 (n = 23) and T4 (n = 18) of intrahepatic tumor stage was 20, 23, 7 and 5 months, respectively. Among the progressive disease group, patients with T0–2 intrahepatic tumor stage had better prognosis than patients with T3–4.

Conclusion

In HCC patients with extrahepatic metastasis who are treated with sorafenib, intrahepatic tumor stage was a significant and independent prognostic factor.
Factors affecting the success rate of buccal infiltration anaesthesia in the mandibular molar region
Authors: Kwon H. , Shin Y. , Cho S.‐Y. , Park S.‐H. , Jung I.‐Y.
Published: February 2014

Aim

To compare the anaesthetic efficacy of mandibular second premolar infiltration (SP) with that of mandibular first molar infiltration (FM) in inducing pulpal anaesthesia in the mandibular first molar. To further investigate the mechanisms of action that underlie mandibular infiltration, gender‐related differences in the anaesthetic efficacy were also assessed.

Methodology

A total of 29 adult subjects randomly received two sets of SP and FM injections using one cartridge (1.7 mL) of 4% articaine and 1 : 100 000 adrenaline at two separate appointments. The responses of the teeth were assessed using an electronic pulp tester over a 30‐min period. A comparison of the anaesthetic success between the SP and FM infiltration routes was analysed using the McNemar's test. Gender‐related differences in the anaesthetic success of infiltration routes were assessed using the Fisher's exact test.

Results

For the second premolar and the first and second molar teeth, the success rates of SP were 72.4%, 62.1% and 48.3%, whereas the success rates of FM were 75.9%, 51.7% and 55.1%, respectively. There were no significant differences between the success rates of SP and FM or between the rates obtained for each tooth. Significant gender‐related differences were observed for the second premolar (P < 0.01) and the first molar (P < 0.05) using FM. However, a significant difference was observed only for the second premolar using SP (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The differences in the injection sites did not affect the anaesthetic success rates for the mandibular second premolar and molar teeth. However, articaine buccal infiltration produced a higher anaesthetic success rate in the second premolar and first molar teeth of Korean female patients.
T helper subsets & regulatory T cells: rethinking the paradigm in the clinical context of solid organ transplantation
Authors: Askar M.
Published: February 2014

Recent years have witnessed remarkable expansion in the knowledge of how various immune/inflammatory cells and T helper (Th) cell subsets, including Th1, Th2, Th9, Th17, Th22, follicular T helper (Tfh) and Treg subpopulations, reciprocally regulate each other. This review highlights current understanding of the Th subsets paradigm, who are the old school players, who are the new kids on the block and how does each come to play in different clinical contexts in solid organ transplantation. The article commences with a brief overview of the development and characteristic cytokine profiles of individual members of the paradigm. However, the main focus of this review is on the current understanding of the Th subset paradigm, and how these unique subpopulations impact host responses towards solid organ allografts. More specifically, it will highlight the recent findings that implicate the paradigm in transplantation. The interplay among different subsets is discussed collectively in the clinical context of pretransplant immunological risk factors such as alloimmunization as well as post‐transplant immunological consequences such as rejection. Accumulating evidence suggests that Th17 cells play a role in the development of chronic allograft injury in transplantation of various organs. In vitro, tacrolimus suppressed Th1 and Th2 cells but not Th17 cells. Animal studies suggest that regulatory T cells (Treg)‐based therapies could be effective as mechanisms of long‐term drug‐free transplant tolerance in humans. Indeed, a dual role for TGF‐β and Foxp3 in induced tolerance has been proposed, in which TGF‐β stimulates Foxp3 expression and is associated with the induction of Treg‐facilitating acquisition of tolerance. Exploiting Th subsets' regulatory functions could potentially offer opportunities for immunological interventions in solid organ transplantation.
From Armed Neutrality to External Dependence: Swiss Security in the 21stCentury
Authors: DeVore Marc R. , Stähli Armin
Published: February 2014

Abstract: Historically, Swiss identity was founded on beliefs in federalism, direct democracy and armed neutrality. Given continued popular support for autonomous self‐defense in an era of transnational threats, it is worth examining whether a small economically interdependent state, such as Switzerland, is single‐handedly capable of providing for its own security. To preview our conclusions, every facet of Switzerland’s security, whether against military threats, terrorism or natural disasters, today benefits from substantial international inputs. At base, Switzerland’s increasing security dependence has been driven by the following dynamics: 1) the general development of institutionalized international cooperation; 2) the evolving nature of the threats Switzerland faces; and 3) political efforts to “securitize” issues not hitherto considered as security problems. Because Swiss security dependence owes more to broad structural factors than deliberate choices, policymakers would be better off embracing this reality by proactively using international organizations to address transnational challenges.
Access to party positions and preference formation: a field experiment
Authors: Schläpfer Felix
Published: February 2014

Abstract:  Surveys are sometimes used to assess preferences towards policy issues that are remote from experience and that have never been publicly discussed. How do these preferences of isolated survey respondents compare with preferences expressed by voters who have access to advice from competing political parties? I address this question by conducting a field experiment with a sample of the general public in which I experimentally control the subjects’ access to the actual positions of competing parties and interest groups on specific novel policy propositions. Access to party positions decreased approval of the proposed environmental policy among right‐wing voters by over fifty percent, and this effect was similar for different educational groups. When voters had access to party positions, their policy preferences were more consistent with their general political orientation. I conclude by discussing implications of these results for the debate about voter competence and for preference elicitation using surveys.
Les barrières à la mise en œuvre des politiques d’adaptation au changement climatique: le cas de la Suisse
Authors: Dupuis Johann , Knoepfel Peter
Published: February 2014

Abstract: The implementation of climate change adaptation polices has barely occurred in developed countries. This paper examines to what extent the perceptions of political actors might hinder the development of adaptation policies. We study the Swiss case using computer aided textual analysis. Our results demonstrate that adaptation is still not perceived as an important dimension of climate change policy. Decision makers do not perceive links between adaptation, the Swiss economy and the energy supply. Adaptation is mainly considered an issue for developing countries and not as a way to reduce the impacts of climate change in Switzerland. Right‐wing parties tend to consider adaptation a secondary issue and are more likely than those to the left to object to the formulation or the implementation of public measures.
Novel Crystal Growth of In Situ WC in Selective Laser‐Melted W–C–Ni Ternary System
Authors: Gu Dongdong , Jia Qingbo
Published: February 2014

The bulk‐form in situ WC‐based cermets were prepared by selective laser melting of W–C–Ni ternary powder system. The in situ formed WC crystals generally had a unique triangular microstructure which was developed via a layer‐by‐layer growth mechanism by the multilayered stacking of (0001) basal planes of WC. An increase in the applied laser energy density, which was realized by increasing laser power or decreasing scan speed, resulted in the coarsening of in situ WC crystals in both side length and thickness, due to the elevated heat accumulation at the tips of the triangular WC crystals.
Photovoltaic Properties of Multiferroic BiFeO3/BiCrO3 Heterostructures
Authors: Chakrabartty Joyprokash , Nechache Riad , Li Shun , Nicklaus Mischa , Ruediger Andreaus , Rosei Federico
Published: February 2014

We report a power conversion efficiency of ~0.01% in multistacking of BiFeO3/BiCrO3 bilayer thin films used as active layers in a photovoltaic (PV) device. The films were epitaxially deposited by pulse laser deposition onto (100) oriented CaRuO3‐coated LaAlO3 substrates and were subsequently illuminated with 1 sun (AM 1.5). The fill factor is determined to be 0.31%, a remarkable value for ferroelectric‐ and multiferroic‐based PV devices. Our results demonstrate that photocurrent density and photovoltage can be tuned by varying the thickness and number of respective bilayers in the improvement of PV properties of multiferroic heterostructures. The maximum photocurrent is generated at an optimal multilayer thickness of 60 nm, with its origin being mainly ascribed to the contribution of ferroelectric polarization.
Incremental Value of Larger Interventricular Conduction Time in Improving Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Outcome in Patients with Different QRS Duration
Authors: D'ONOFRIO ANTONIO , BOTTO GIANLUCA , MANTICA MASSIMO , LA ROSA CONCETTO , OCCHETTA ERALDO , VERLATO ROBERTO , MOLON GIULIO , AMMENDOLA ERNESTO , VILLANI GIOVANNI Q. , BONGIORNI MARIA GRAZIA , BIANCHI VALTER , GELMINI GIAN PAOLO , VALSECCHI SERGIO , CIARDIELLO CARMINE
Published: February 2014

Interventricular Electrical Delay

Introduction

The left ventricular (LV) pacing site and the magnitude of the electrical delay within the LV, as expressed by prolonged QRS duration, are major determinants of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) efficacy. We investigated the incremental value of positioning the LV lead in areas of late activation in order to enhance the response to CRT in patients with different degrees of QRS complex lengthening.

Methods and Results

This analysis was performed on 301 heart failure patients who received a CRT defibrillator. On implantation, the right ventricular (RV)‐to‐LV interval was measured as the delay between local activations recorded through the RV and LV leads in the final position. After 1 year, 171 (57%) patients displayed reverse LV remodeling, as measured by a ≥15% reduction in the LV end‐systolic volume. Both the RV‐to‐LV interval and its percentage value corrected for the QRS duration were significantly associated with a positive response to CRT. An RV‐to‐LV interval >80 milliseconds and an RV‐to‐LV interval/QRS >58% yielded the best prediction of reverse remodeling. Although the response to CRT decreased with shorter QRS duration in the overall population, patients with an RV‐to‐LV interval >80 milliseconds showed a response rate >65% in all QRS subgroups.

Conclusion

A longer RV‐to‐LV interval is associated with reverse LV remodeling after CRT. On implantation attempts could be made to maximize it when selecting the LV lead position, especially in patients with shorter QRS duration, and thus less likely to respond positively to CRT.