bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The devil is in the dispersers: predictions of landscape connectivity change with demography
Authors: Elliot Nicholas B. , Cushman Samuel A. , Macdonald David W. , Loveridge Andrew J.
Published: May 2014

Concern about the effects of habitat fragmentation has led to increasing interest in dispersal and connectivity modelling. Most modern techniques for connectivity modelling have resistance surfaces as their foundation. However, resistance surfaces for animal movement are frequently estimated without considering dispersal, despite being the principal natural mechanism by which organisms move between populations.

We collected Global Positioning System data over 10 years from 50 African lions Panthera leo (11 male natal dispersers, 20 adult males and 19 adult females) and used a path level analysis to parameterize demographic‐specific resistance surfaces for the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA) in Southern Africa.

Lion path selection varied according to demographic grouping: adult females were most averse to risky landscapes such as agro‐pastoral lands, towns, areas of high human density and highways. Male natal dispersers were the least‐risk averse suggesting they are potentially the most prone demographic to human–lion conflict. Adults of both sexes selected bushed grassland and shrubland habitats and avoided woodland. Male natal dispersers displayed the opposite trend suggesting con‐specific avoidance and/or suboptimal habitat use.

We used the resistance surfaces to calculate factorial least‐cost path networks for each demographic‐specific resistance surface and present results that show substantial differences between predicted patterns of connectivity for male natal dispersers, adult females and adult males.

Synthesis and applications. Resistance surfaces are widely used to create connectivity models, which are promoted for use by conservation managers. Our results suggest that the demographic category used to parameterize resistance surfaces may lead to radically different conclusions about connectivity. Failure to include dispersing individuals when parameterizing resistance surfaces intended for connectivity modelling may lead to erroneous conclusions about connectivity and potentially unsound management strategies.
Crop monoculture rather than agriculture reduces the spatial turnover of soil bacterial communities at a regional scale
Authors: Figuerola Eva L. M. , Guerrero Leandro D. , Türkowsky Dominique , Wall Luis G. , Erijman Leonardo
Published: May 2014

The goal of this study was to investigate the spatial turnover of soil bacterial communities in response to environmental changes introduced by the practices of soybean monoculture or crop rotations, relative to grassland soils. Amplicon sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene was used to analyse bacterial diversity in producer fields through three successive cropping cycles within one and a half years, across a regional scale of the Argentinean Pampas. Unlike local diversity, which was not significantly affected by land use type, agricultural management had a strong influence on β‐diversity patterns. Distributions of pairwise distances between all soils samples under soybean monoculture had significantly lower β‐diversity and narrower breadth compared with distributions of pairwise distances between soils managed with crop rotation. Interestingly, good agricultural practices had similar degree of β‐diversity as natural grasslands. The higher phylogenetic relatedness of bacterial communities in soils under monoculture across the region was likely determined by the observed loss of endemic species, and affected mostly to phyla with low regional diversity, such as Acidobacteria, Verrucomicrobia and the candidates phyla SPAM and WS3. These results suggest that the implementation of good agricultural practices, including crop rotation, may be critical for the long‐term conservation of soil biodiversity.
Identification of specific corrinoids reveals corrinoid modification in dechlorinating microbial communities
Authors: Men Yujie , Seth Erica C. , Yi Shan , Crofts Terence S. , Allen Robert H. , Taga Michiko E. , Alvarez‐Cohen Lisa
Published: May 2014

Cobalamin and other corrinoids are essential cofactors for many organisms. The majority of microbes with corrinoid‐dependent enzymes do not produce corrinoids de novo, and instead must acquire corrinoids produced by other organisms in their environment. However, the profile of corrinoids produced in corrinoid‐dependent microbial communities, as well as the exchange and modification of corrinoids among community members have not been well studied. In this study, we applied a newly developed liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry‐based corrinoid detection method to examine relationships among corrinoids, their lower ligand bases and specific microbial groups in microbial communities containing Dehalococcoides mccartyi that has an obligate requirement for benzimidazole‐containing corrinoids for trichloroethene respiration. We found that p‐cresolylcobamide ([p‐Cre]Cba) and cobalamin were the most abundant corrinoids in the communities. It suggests that members of the family Veillonellaceae are associated with the production of [p‐Cre]Cba. The decrease of supernatant‐associated [p‐Cre]Cba and the increase of biomass‐associated cobalamin were correlated with the growth of D. mccartyi by dechlorination. This supports the hypothesis that D. mccartyi is capable of fulfilling its corrinoid requirements in a community through corrinoid remodelling, in this case, by importing extracellular [p‐Cre]Cba and 5,6‐dimethylbenzimidazole (DMB) (the lower ligand of cobalamin), to produce cobalamin as a cofactor for dechlorination. This study also highlights the role of DMB, the lower ligand produced in all of the studied communities, in corrinoid remodelling. These findings provide novel insights on roles played by different phylogenetic groups in corrinoid production and corrinoid exchange within microbial communities. This study may also have implications for optimizing chlorinated solvent bioremediation.
Global ubiquity and local endemism of free‐living terrestrial protists: phylogeographic assessment of the streptophyte alga Klebsormidium
Authors: Ryšánek David , Hrčková Kristýna , Škaloud Pavel
Published: May 2014

Despite considerable research attention during the last 10 years, the distribution and biogeography of protists remain as highly controversial issues. The presumably huge population sizes and unlimited dispersal capabilities should result in protist ubiquity. However, recent molecular investigations suggest that protist communities exhibit strong biogeographic patterns. Here, we examined the biogeographic pattern of a very common green algal genus Klebsormidium. We evaluated the geographic distribution of rbcL genotypes for 190 isolates sampled in six sampling regions located in Europe, North America and Asia. Measures of correlation between genetic and geographic distance matrices revealed a differential distribution pattern on two geographic levels. Globally, the populations were genetically homogeneous; locally, the genotypes were patchily distributed. We hypothesized that a local fine‐scale structuring of genotypes may be caused by various ecological factors, in particular, by the habitat differentiation of particular genotypes. Our investigations also identified a large number of new, previously unrecognized lineages. A total of 44 genotypes were identified and more than 66% of these were reported for the first time.
Oral cavity contains distinct niches with dynamic microbial communities
Authors: Xu Xin , He Jinzhi , Xue Jing , Wang Yan , Li Kun , Zhang Keke , Guo Qiang , Liu Xianghong , Zhou Yuan , Cheng Lei , Li Mingyun , Li Yuqing , Li Yan , Shi Wenyuan , Zhou Xuedong
Published: May 2014

Microbes colonize human oral surfaces within hours after delivery. During postnatal development, physiological changes, such as the eruption of primary teeth and replacement of the primary dentition with permanent dentition, greatly alter the microbial habitats, which, in return, may lead to community composition shifts at different phases in people's lives. By profiling saliva, supragingival and mucosal plaque samples from healthy volunteers at different ages and dentition stages, we observed that the oral cavity is a highly heterogeneous ecological system containing distinct niches with significantly different microbial communities. More importantly, the phylogenetic microbial structure varies with ageing. In addition, only a few taxa were present across the whole populations, indicating a core oral microbiome should be defined based on age and oral niches.
The evolving dynamics of the microbial community in the cystic fibrosis lung
Authors: McGuigan Luke , Callaghan Máire
Published: May 2014

The cystic fibrosis (CF) lung is a niche colonized by a diverse group of organisms, with a more limited number of species including Pseudomonas aeruginosa dominating in adult patients. Whether all members of this microbial community play a direct or indirect role in pulmonary decline has yet to be fully elucidated, but investigations of their interactions with both co‐colonizing species and with host cells are beginning to shed light on their virulence potential. It is also emerging that some microbial species within this community adapt as chronic infection is established to survive the hostile environment of the lung, to minimize host clearance and to resist therapeutic intervention. This review highlights the recent developments in CF microbiology focusing on the cooperative, competitive and adaptive interactions of established and emerging pathogens in the lung microbiome.
Exploring the diversity of arsenic resistance genes from acid mine drainage microorganisms
Authors: Morgante Verónica , Mirete Salvador , de Figueras Carolina G. , Postigo Cacho Marina , González‐Pastor José E.
Published: May 2014

The microbial communities from the Tinto River, a natural acid mine drainage environment, were explored to search for novel genes involved in arsenic resistance using a functional metagenomic approach. Seven pentavalent arsenate resistance clones were selected and analysed to find the genes responsible for this phenotype. Insights about their possible mechanisms of resistance were obtained from sequence similarities and cellular arsenic concentration. A total of 19 individual open reading frames were analysed, and each one was individually cloned and assayed for its ability to confer arsenic resistance in Escherichia coli cells. A total of 13 functionally active genes involved in arsenic resistance were identified, and they could be classified into different global processes: transport, stress response, DNA damage repair, phospholipids biosynthesis, amino acid biosynthesis and RNA‐modifying enzymes. Most genes (11) encode proteins not previously related to heavy metal resistance or hypothetical or unknown proteins. On the other hand, two genes were previously related to heavy metal resistance in microorganisms. In addition, the ClpB chaperone and the RNA‐modifying enzymes retrieved in this work were shown to increase the cell survival under different stress conditions (heat shock, acid pH and UV radiation). Thus, these results reveal novel insights about unidentified mechanisms of arsenic resistance.
Preparation using Pectinase and Characterization of Nanofibers from Orange Peel Waste in Juice Factories
Authors: Hideno Akihiro , Abe Kentaro , Yano Hiroyuki
Published: May 2014

Abstracts

This study reports the preparation and characterization of nanofibers consisting mainly of cellulose microfibrils from orange peel (OP), which is a significant byproduct of orange juice production. Three treatments (boiling, alkaline, and pectinase) were investigated with and without subsequent grinding treatment. It was possible to prepare the cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) using these methods, except for the boiling treatment with grinding. Interestingly, only pectinase and a mild‐physical blender treatment without grinding produced nanofibers. The width of the nanofibers from OP was approximately 10 to 50 nm. The microfibril bundles of OP were considered to be thinner than those of commercial CNFs. Our data indicated that the removal of pectic polysaccharides and hemicelluloses covering the cellulose microfibrils was important for the preparation of nanofibers from OP. These nanofibers from OP using pectinase are proposed to be applicable as food materials, pharmaceuticals, and filters for the tractive characteristics of the sheet.
Population attributable risk from obesity to arthritis in the Canadian Population Health Longitudinal Survey 1994–2006
Authors: Mo Frank , Morrison Howard , Neutel Ineke C.
Published: May 2014

Objectives

To examine the relationship, potential associations, and determine the population attributable risk percent (PAR%) between obesity and arthritis in Canadians aged 40 to 79 from 1994 to 2006.

Methods

Our study population were the 17 276 respondents in the Canadian National Population Longitudinal Health Survey data, from 1994/1995 to 2006/2007.

Results

Respondents who were overweight and obese increased over time, with arthritis increasing from 20% to 30% over the study period. Women reported a 10% higher prevalence of arthritis than men. Men aged 70–79 and women aged 60–69 were most likely to report arthritis. PAR% calculations indicated that 3.8% of arthritis in 1994 and 7.5% in 2006 in the overall population could be attributed to overweight, while the proportion of arthritis attributable to obesity increased from 7.0% in 1994 to 10.2% in 2006.

Conclusions

Increasing overweight/obesity of the population was positively associated with arthritis in Canada for both sexes. In addition to the many other beneficial health effects, reducing levels of excess weight may result in either less arthritis or fewer manifestations of symptoms of arthritis or both.
Conversation with secrets
Authors: Ganglmair Bernhard , Tarantino Emanuele
Published: May 2014

We analyze the sustainability of a conversation when one agent might be endowed with a piece of private information that affects the payoff distribution to its benefit. Such a secret can compromise the sustainability of conversation. Even without an obligation, the secret holder will disclose its secret if it prevents preemptive termination of the conversation. The nonsecret holder lacks this possibility and stops the conversation. Competition and limited effectiveness of the conversation amplify this result of early disclosure and render the conversation process less sustainable. We discuss policy and managerial implications for industry standard development and joint ventures.
Emerging Powers and Change in the Global Financial Order
Authors: Huotari Mikko , Hanemann Thilo
Published: May 2014

Emerging economies have become a major force in the world economy. This article examines the role of Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRIC) in global finance and compares their potential to challenge the parameters of international financial and monetary relations. Instead of focusing on changes inside the existing system of multilateral governance, our analysis stresses the need to consider a broader set of channels to develop and exert financial power. Our comparative assessment of BRIC economies' increasing autonomy, their strategic intentions, financial system capacity and the behavior of subnational ‘power brokers' in global financial markets serves as a starting point to advance the debate over ongoing structural changes in the global financial order. We show how increasing autonomy and financial power have already led emerging markets to develop alternatives for crisis financing and development assistance. The prospects for deeper cooperation among BRIC economies however remain gloomy, as the already very diverse preferences with regard to global financial structures can be expected to further diverge.
Fifty years of finance research in the Asia Pacific Basin
Authors: Benson Karen , Faff Robert , Smith Tom
Published: May 2014

In this paper, we review the history of scholarly finance research in the Asia Pacific Basin. We do this by analysing the four leading regional finance journals – Accounting and Finance, Australian Journal of Management, International Review of Finance and the Pacific‐Basin Finance Journal – along five dimensions. The five dimensions are the most cited papers, noted authors, impact in terms of practice, research areas and a breakdown in terms of the development of the field according to Kuhnian concepts of normal science, anomalies and extraordinary science. We show that the Asia Pacific journals make a crucial contribution to research and practice both in the region and internationally.
The minimally invasive MitraClip™ procedure for mitral regurgitation under general anaesthesia: immediate effects on the pulmonary circulation and right ventricular function
Authors: Kottenberg E. , Dumont M. , Frey U. H. , Heine T. , Plicht B. , Kahlert P. , Erbel R. , Peters J.
Published: May 2014

A relatively new minimally invasive cardiological procedure, called the MitraClip™, does not require sternotomy and may have a number of advantages compared with open mitral valve surgery, but its acute impact on the pulmonary circulation and right ventricular function during general anaesthesia is unclear. We prospectively assessed the effects of the MitraClip procedure in 81 patients with or without pulmonary hypertension (defined as mean pulmonary artery pressure > 25 mmHg), who were anaesthetised using fentanyl (5 μg.kg−1), etomidate (0.2–0.3 mg.kg−1), rocuronium (0.5–0.6 mg.kg−1) and isoflurane. Placement of the MitraClip led to a 60% increase in mean (SD) right ventricular stroke work index (from 512 (321) to 820 (470) mmHg.ml.m−2, p < 0.0001), while mean (SD) pulmonary vascular resistance index decreased by 24% (522 (330) to 399 (244) dyn.s.cm−5, p < 0.0001), and mean (SD) pulmonary artery pressure decreased by 10% (30 (8) to 27 (8) mmHg, p < 0.0001). Patients with pulmonary hypertension experienced a similar decrease in mean pulmonary artery pressure compared with those without, and they also had a slight reduction in mean (SD) pulmonary artery occlusion pressure (22 (6) down to 20 (6) mmHg, p = 0.044). We conclude that successful MitraClip treatment for mitral regurgitation acutely improves right ventricular performance by reducing right ventricular afterload, regardless of whether patients have pre‐operative pulmonary hypertension.
Endoscopic cyst‐gastrostomy for pancreatic pseudocysts: refining the indications
Authors: Due Steven L. , Wilson Thomas G. , Chung Adrian , Chen John W. C.
Published: May 2014

Background

Pseudocysts are a common consequence of acute pancreatitis and require intervention if symptomatic. Endoscopic management is emerging as a safe and effective alternative to surgery, although its use is not yet widespread.

Methods

We describe our experience of 10 consecutive unselected patients who underwent endoscopic ultrasound‐guided cyst‐gastrostomy and stent insertion at a tertiary referral centre. Technical aspects of the procedure are detailed with accompanying photographs.

Results

Six patients made an uneventful recovery. Four patients developed complications, of which one was successfully salvaged by endoscopy and three required surgery.

Conclusion

We discuss technical and patient factors which may have contributed to these complications in the context of current literature, and in particular, found that the presence of necrosis was associated with higher morbidity, both in our series and in others. In our experience, endoscopic ultrasound‐guided cyst‐gastrostomy is best employed in simple, mature pseudocysts without necrotic debris, and we recommend this procedure only after a detailed assessment of the pseudocyst in a specialist hepatobiliary unit.
Population pharmacokinetics and haemodynamic effects of norepinephrine in hypotensive critically ill children
Authors: Oualha Mehdi , Tréluyer Jean‐Marc , Lesage Fabrice , de Saint Blanquat Laure , Dupic Laurent , Hubert Philippe , Spreux‐Varoquaux Odile , Urien Saïk
Published: May 2014

Aim

The aim of the study was to investigate the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of norepinephrine in hypotensive critically ill children, including associated variability factors.

Methods

This was a prospective study in an 18‐bed neonatal and paediatric intensive care unit. All children were aged less than 18 years, weighed more than 1500 g and required norepinephrine for systemic arterial hypotension. The pharmacokinetics and haemodynamic effects were described using the non‐linear mixed effect modelling software MONOLIX.

Results

Norepinephrine dosing infusions ranging from 0.05 to 2 μg kg−1 min−1 were administered to 38 children whose weight ranged from 2 to 85 kg. A one compartment open model with linear elimination adequately described the norepinephrine concentration–time courses. Bodyweight (BW) was the main covariate influencing norepinephrine clearance (CL) and endogenous norepinephrine production rate (q0) via an allometric relationship: CL(BWi) = θCL × (BWi)3/4 and q0(BWi) = θq0 × (BWi)3/4. The increase in mean arterial pressure (MAP) as a function of norepinephrine concentration was well described using an Emax model. The effects of post‐conceptional age (PCA) and number of organ dysfunctions were significant on basal MAP level (MAP0i = MAP0 × PCA/9i0.166) and on the maximal increase in MAP (32 mmHg and 12 mmHg for a number of organ dysfunctions ≤3 and ≥4, respectively).

Conclusion

The pharmacokinetics and haemodynamic effects of norepinephrine in hypotensive critically ill children highlight the between‐subject variability which is related to the substantial role of age, BW and severity of illness. Taking into account these individual characteristics may help clinicians in determining an appropriate initial a priori dosing regimen.
Monitoring vigabatrin in head injury patients by cerebral microdialysis: obtaining pharmacokinetic measurements in a neurocritical care setting
Authors: Shannon Richard J. , Timofeev Ivan , Nortje Jürgens , Hutchinson Peter J. , Carpenter Keri L. H.
Published: May 2014

Aims

The aims were to determine blood–brain barrier penetration and brain extracellular pharmacokinetics for the anticonvulsant vigabatrin (VGB; γ‐vinyl‐γ‐aminobutyric acid) in brain extracellular fluid and plasma from severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients, and to measure the response of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) concentration in brain extracellular fluid.

Methods

Severe TBI patients (n = 10) received VGB (0.5 g enterally, every 12 h). Each patient had a cerebral microdialysis catheter; two patients had a second catheter in a different region of the brain. Plasma samples were collected 0.5 h before and 2, 4 and 11.5 h after the first VGB dose. Cerebral microdialysis commenced before the first VGB dose and continued through at least three doses of VGB. Controls were seven severe TBI patients with microdialysis, without VGB.

Results

After the first VGB dose, the maximum concentration of VGB (Cmax) was 31.7 (26.9–42.6) μmol l−1 (median and interquartile range for eight patients) in plasma and 2.41 (2.03–5.94) μmol l−1 in brain microdialysates (nine patients, 11 catheters), without significant plasma–brain correlation. After three doses, median Cmax in microdialysates increased to 5.22 (4.24–7.14) μmol l−1 (eight patients, 10 catheters). Microdialysate VGB concentrations were higher close to focal lesions than in distant sites. Microdialysate GABA concentrations increased modestly in some of the patients after VGB administration.

Conclusions

Vigabatrin, given enterally to severe TBI patients, crosses the blood–brain barrier into the brain extracellular fluid, where it accumulates with multiple dosing. Pharmacokinetics suggest delayed uptake from the blood.
Antimicrobial stewardship – can we afford to do without it?
Authors: Aryee Anna , Price Nicholas
Published: May 2014

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a rapidly developing and alarming global threat which has been highlighted by national governments and public health bodies including the World Health Organization. The spectre of a ‘post‐antibiotic era’ is a real possibility unless curtailing the development and spread of these organisms is given high priority. Numerous studies have shown that AMR is associated with worse outcomes for patients and higher healthcare costs. While clinical data from low and middle income countries is lacking, there is increasing evidence that the problem in these areas is as great, or even greater, than in high income nations. Of the many drivers behind the development of AMR, the most significant is selection pressure caused by antibiotic use. Antimicrobial stewardship programmes are a set of interventions that aim to ensure the judicious use of antimicrobials by preventing their unnecessary use, and by providing targeted and limited therapy in situations where they are warranted. The ultimate goal of these programmes is to provide effective antimicrobial therapy whilst safeguarding their effectiveness for future generations. Whilst they do require an initial investment, they have been shown to be an effective way of controlling antimicrobial use, and have been associated with improved patient outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.
Clinical pharmacology of AMG 181, a gut‐specific human anti‐α4β7 monoclonal antibody, for treating inflammatory bowel diseases
Authors: Pan Wei‐Jian , Köck Kathleen , Rees William A. , Sullivan Barbara A. , Evangelista Christine M. , Yen Mark , Andrews Jane M. , Radford‐Smith Graham L. , Prince Peter J. , Reynhardt Kaz O. , Doherty David R. , Patel Sonal K. , Krill Christine D. , Zhou Kefei , Shen Jing , Smith Lynn E. , Gow Jason M. , Lee Jonathan , Treacy Anthony M. , Yu Zhigang , Platt Virginia M. , Borie Dominic C.
Published: May 2014

Aims

AMG 181 pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD), safety, tolerability and effects after single subcutaneous (s.c.) or intravenous (i.v.) administration were evaluated in a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study.

Methods

Healthy male subjects (n= 68) received a single dose of AMG 181 or placebo at 0.7, 2.1, 7, 21, 70 mg s.c. (or i.v.), 210 mg s.c. (or i.v.), 420 mg i.v. or placebo. Four ulcerative colitis (UC) subjects (n= 4, male : female 2:2) received 210 mg AMG 181 or placebo s.c. (3:1). AMG 181 concentration, anti‐AMG 181‐antibody (ADA), α4β7 receptor occupancy (RO), target cell counts, serum C‐reactive protein, fecal biomarkers and Mayo score were measured. Subjects were followed 3–9 months after dose.

Results

Following s.c. dosing, AMG 181 was absorbed with a median tmax ranging between 2–10 days and a bioavailability between 82% and 99%. Cmax and AUC increased dose‐proportionally and approximately dose‐proportionally, respectively, within the 70–210 mg s.c. and 70–420 mg i.v. ranges. The linear β‐phase t1/2 was 31 (range 20–48) days. Target‐mediated disposition occurred at serum AMG 181 concentrations of less than 1 μg ml−1. The PD effect on α4β7 RO showed an EC50 of 0.01 μg ml−1. Lymphocytes, eosinophils, CD4+ T cells and subset counts were unchanged. AMG 181‐treated UC subjects were in remission with mucosal healing at weeks 6, 12 and/or 28. The placebo‐treated UC subject experienced colitis flare at week 6. No ADA or AMG 181 treatment‐related serious adverse events were observed.

Conclusions

AMG 181 has PK/PD, safety, and effect profiles suitable for further testing in subjects with inflammatory bowel diseases.
Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy for high‐risk prostate cancer
Authors: Di Benedetto Antonina , Soares Ricardo , Dovey Zach , Bott Simon , McGregor Roy G. , Eden Christopher G.
Published: May 2014

Objective

To investigate the results of performing laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) in patients with high‐risk prostate cancer (HRPC): PSA level of ≥20 ng/mL ± biopsy Gleason ≥8 ± clinical T stage ≥2c.

Patients and Methods

Of a total of 1975 patients having LRP during a 159‐month period from 2000 to 2013, 446 (22.6%) had HRPC; all patients were staged by preoperative magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography and isotope bone scanning. The median (range) patient age was 64.0 (36–79) years; body mass index 27.0 (18–43) kg/m2; PSA level 8.1 (0.1–93) ng/mL and biopsy Gleason 8 (6–10). All patients had a pelvic lymphadenectomy, which was done using an extended template after April 2008 (53.3%). Neurovascular bundle (NVB) preservation was done in 41.5% (bilateral 26.3%; unilateral 15.2%) of patients; an incremental or partial nerve‐sparing technique was used in 99 of the 302 (32.8%) NVBs preserved.

Results

The median (range) gland weight was 58.5 (20–161) g; operating time 180 (92–330) min; blood loss 200 (10–1400) mL; postoperative hospitalisation 3.0 (2–7) nights; catheterisation time 14 (2–35) days; complication rate 7.6%; lymph node (LN) count 16 (2–51); LN positivity 16.2%; LN involvement 2 (1–8); positive surgical margin (PSM) rate 26.0%; up‐grading 2.5%; down‐grading 4.3%; up‐staging from T1/2 to T3, 24.7%; down‐staging from T3 to T1/2, 6.1%. No cases were converted to open surgery and three patients were transfused (0.7%) after surgery. At a mean (range) follow‐up of 24.9 (3–120) months, 79.2% of patients were free of biochemical recurrence, 91.8% were continent and 64.4% of previously potent non‐diabetic men aged <70 years were potent after bilateral nerve preservation.

Conclusion

The low morbidity, 55.4% specimen‐confinement rate, 26.0% PSM rate, 79.2% biochemical disease‐free survival, 91.8% continence rate and 64.4% potency rate, at 35.2 months in the present study serve as evidence firstly that surgery is an effective treatment for patients with HRPC, curing many and representing the first step of multi‐modal treatment for others, and that LRP for HRPC appears to be as effective as open RP in this context.
Modified transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) for men with moderate lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) before brachytherapy is safe and feasible
Authors: Brousil Philip , Hussain Muddassar , Lynch Mark , Laing Robert W. , Langley Stephen E.M.
Published: May 2014

Objective

To report the urinary toxicity outcomes for patients at greater risk of voiding symptoms and retention who received a modified limited transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) before low‐dose rate (LDR) brachytherapy.

Patients and Method

Data were analysed from patients receiving the above procedures between 2006 to present, taken from the prospective brachytherapy database of 2000 patients at the St. Luke's Cancer Centre. The limited TURP (TURPBXT) was performed at a median (range) of 64 (25–205) days before seed implantation with a median resection weight of 1.15 g. Selection criteria were based on patients with moderate lower urinary tract symptoms, poor flow or post‐void residual urine volume (PVR), or a prominent middle lobe or high bladder neck on transrectal ultrasonography. Baseline prostate cancer characteristics, uroflowmetry, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and quality‐of‐life QoL scores were collected and compared with follow‐up IPSS and QoL scores.

Results

Data for 112 patients was gathered from the database. The TURPBXT resulted in statistically significant improvements before LDR brachytherapy in maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) and PVR, IPSS and QoL scores (the mean Qmax before vs after the TURPBXT was 11.3 vs 16.7 mL/s). The IPSS and QoL scores at 6 months after seed implantation were increased compared with baseline values before the TURPBXT (mean IPSS at 6 months 11.7 vs 9.2 before TURPBXT), but no difference at 1 year (mean IPSS 9), and improved scores at 2, 3, 4 and 5 years follow‐up (mean IPSS of 7.9, 5.6, 5.3 and 7.4, respectively).

Conclusion

The present study suggests patients at increased risk of deteriorating voiding symptoms, including urinary retention, are no longer contraindicated against LDR brachytherapy if they receive a modified TURP before seed implantation. This procedure does not appear to carry the risk of urinary incontinence thought to be associated with a conventional TURP before LDR brachytherapy.
Clay mineral occurrence and burial transformations: reservoir potential of the Permo‐Triassic sediments of the Iberian Range
Authors: Marfil R. , La Iglesia A. , Herrero M. J. , Scherer M. , Delgado A.
Published: May 2014

The diagenetic evolution of Permian (Autunian and Saxonian) and Triassic (Buntsandstein) sandstones and mudrocks have been studied over 1000 m sequence from the Sigüenza 44‐3 drill core in the Iberian Range, Spain. We compare and contrast the diagenetic processes in these different lithologies and the timing of clay mineral formation. Moreover, we establish the relationship between clay mineral diagenesis and reservoir potential. Both the Permian and Triassic successions are characterised by conglomerates, sandstones and interbedded mudstones of fluvial origin that change upwards into distal deposits of a fluvio‐deltaic system. The clay minerals are illite, illite‐smectite mixed layers, kaolinite and dickite. The illite content in all sequences is not related to diminished feldspars; it is owing to the initial detrital mineralogical composition of the Autunian sandstones. The effect of feldspar alteration to kaolin minerals has a strong influence on the lost of porosity‐permeability in the Saxonian facies. In contrast, illite and mixed layers illite‐smectite are the main clay rims preserving porosity in the Buntsandstein sandstones. However, fibrous illite is the dominant pore‐filling in the Permian Autunian facies, closing porosity and permeability. Kaolinite and dickite show opposite trends: dickite increases yet kaolinite decreases from Triassic to Permian sandstones. Dickite replaced kaolinite during burial‐thermal evolution of the succession. The δD and δ18O isotopic signatures from silt and clay fractions indicate a mixture of meteoric and marine waters, and suggest a minimum temperature range between 60 and 150 °C for diagenetic pore fluids. The Permian δD values (−24‰ to −44‰) are relatively similar to Buntsandstein values (−24‰ to −37‰). However, the Permian δ18O values (+7.6 and +15.3, average of +13.3‰) are generally higher by ca. 6.2‰ compared to the Buntsandstein data (4.8–10.1‰, average +7.1‰). Such a variation is interpreted as the result of mesodiagenetic pore fluid changes. The extensive dickitisation of kaolinite is attributed to increased hydrogen ions resulting from maturation of organic matter. The vitrinite reflectance of organic matter and the modelled thermal history suggest a maximum burial of 3400 m, accomplished 70 Ma ago. The Permo‐Triassic reached the gas window shortly before major uplift, at 65 Ma, when further maturation and hydrocarbon expulsion ceased.
The road to recovery: Comparing Canada and US recovery strategies for shared endangered species
Authors: Olive Andrea
Published: May 2014

Canada and the United States share 30 endangered or threatened species. This paper examines the recovery process for species at risk under the two country's domestic laws: Canada's Species at Risk Act and the American Endangered Species Act. These two countries could be working together to recover shared species, especially migratory and cross‐border species. Through comparing the recovery strategies and plans for the 30 species, and interviewing recovery team members on both sides of the border, it is shown that cross‐border collaboration is limited. The paper argues that more collaboration, data sharing, and cross‐border recovery teams are needed. Biodiversity loss is an increasing problem in both countries.
New MT‐ND1 pathologic mutation for Leber hereditary optic neuropathy
Authors: Martínez‐Romero Íñigo , Herrero‐Martín M Dolores , Llobet Laura , Emperador Sonia , Martín‐Navarro Antonio , Narberhaus Bernat , Ascaso Francisco J , López‐Gallardo Ester , Montoya Julio , Ruiz‐Pesini Eduardo
Published: May 2014

Background

Mutations causing Leber hereditary optic neuropathy are usually homoplasmic, show incomplete penetrance, and many of the affected positions are not well conserved through evolution. A large percentage of patients harbouring these mutations have no family history of disease. Moreover, the transfer of the mutation in the cybrid model is frequently not accompanied by the transfer of the cellular, biochemical and molecular phenotype. All these features make difficult their classification as the etiologic factors for this disease. We report a patient who exhibits typical clinical features of Leber hereditary optic neuropathy but lacks all three of the most common mitochondrial DNA mutations.

Methods

The diagnosis was made based on clinical studies. The mitochondrial DNA was completely sequenced, and the candidate mutation was analysed in more than 18 000 individuals around the world, its conservation index was estimated in more than 3100 species from protists to mammals, its position was modelled in the crystal structure of a bacteria ortholog subunit, and its functional consequences were studied in a cybrid model.

Results

Genetic analysis revealed an m.3472T>C transition in the MT‐ND1 gene that changes a phenylalanine to leucine at position 56. Bioinformatics, molecular‐genetic analysis and functional studies suggest that this transition is the etiological factor for the disorder.

Conclusions

This mutation expands the spectrum of deleterious changes in mitochondrial DNA‐encoded complex I polypeptides associated with this pathology and highlights the difficulties in assigning pathogenicity to new homoplasmic mutations that show incomplete penetrance in sporadic Leber hereditary optic neuropathy patients.
Reliability of cone counts using an adaptive optics retinal camera
Authors: Bidaut Garnier Mélanie , Flores Mathieu , Debellemanière Guillaume , Puyraveau Marc , Tumahai Perle , Meillat Mathieu , Schwartz Claire , Montard Michel , Delbosc Bernard , Saleh Maher
Published: May 2014

Background

To assess the reproducibility and repeatability of cone imaging in healthy human eyes, using the RTx‐1 Adaptive Optics Retinal Camera and its proprietary cone‐counting software.

Design

Single‐centre, prospective study.

Participants

Ten healthy adults.

Methods

Macular cones were imaged. Intrasession repeatability was assessed by comparing 10 consecutive acquisitions obtained by the same operator from each subject. For the intersession study, each subject was imaged five consecutive days. Interoperator reproducibility was also evaluated by comparing the images obtained from 10 different subjects by two independent operators. Finally, intergrader agreement was evaluated by comparing the cone counts measured by two masked graders.

Main Outcome Measures

Mean cone density (cells/mm2), spacing between cells (μm) and percentage of cones with six neighbours calculated on Voronoi diagrams were measured. Correlation coefficients, intraclass correlation coefficients, and coefficients of variation were calculated.

Results

Correlation coefficient and intraclass correlation coefficient were respectively 0.81 and 0.96 between operators, and 0.97 and 0.98 between the two graders. The intrasession and intersession coefficients of variation were under 7%. The percentage of cells with six neighbours and the spacing between cones varied in the same proportion (coefficients of variation ranged from 1.66 to 10.05%).

Conclusions

Overall, the test–retest variability of RTx‐1 and its software was good in normal human eyes. Further studies in the normal clinical setting are mandatory.
Understanding and checking the assumptions of linear regression: a primer for medical researchers
Authors: Casson Robert J , Farmer Lachlan DM
Published: May 2014

Linear regression (LR) is a powerful statistical model when used correctly. Because the model is an approximation of the long‐term sequence of any event, it requires assumptions to be made about the data it represents in order to remain appropriate. However, these assumptions are often misunderstood. We present the basic assumptions used in the LR model and offer a simple methodology for checking if they are satisfied prior to its use. In doing so, we aim to increase the effectiveness and appropriateness of LR in clinical research.
Impact of trastuzumab on wound healing in experimental glaucoma surgery
Authors: Turgut Burak , Eren Kenan , Akin Mehmet M , Bilir Can Nagehan , Demir Tamer
Published: May 2014

Background

To investigate the effects of subconjunctivally administered trastuzumab on wound healing in experimental glaucoma filtration surgery.

Design

Comparative, experimental study.

Samples

Twenty eight eyes.

Methods

Twenty‐eight male New Zealand white rabbits were randomly assigned to four groups, each including seven rabbits: The rabbits in the control group were not operated on and did not receive any treatment. The rabbits in the sham group underwent trabeculectomy and had one drop of saline instilled four times a day for 14 days. The rabbits in the mitomycin‐C group underwent trabeculectomy, and a sponge soaked in 0.4 mg/mL mitomycin‐C was applied intraoperatively to the scleral surgical site for 3 min. The rabbits in the trastuzumab group underwent trabeculectomy and were injected subconjunctivally once with 1.2 mg/0.1 mL of the drug. On day 14 of the experiment, the operated and control eyes were enucleated and immunohistochemically analyzed.

Main Outcome Measures

Mean values of fibroblast, mononuclear cell and immunostaining intensities of the transforming growth factor‐β, fibroblast growth factor‐β, and platelet derived growth factor.

Results

The mean cell numbers and immunostaining intensities in the sham group were higher than those of the control group (P < 0.01). The mean cell numbers and immunostaining intensities in the mitomycin‐C group and trastuzumab group were statistically significantly lower than those of the sham group (P < 0.01) while mean cell numbers and immunostaining intensities in the mitomycin‐C group and trastuzumab group were similar (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Subconjunctival trastuzumab injection effectively suppressed subconjunctival scarring after experimental glaucoma filtration surgery.
Uncontrolled eating is associated with reduced executive functioning
Authors: Calvo D. , Galioto R. , Gunstad J. , Spitznagel M. B.
Published: May 2014

Accumulating evidence indicates obesity is associated with reduced cognitive functioning, particularly attention and executive function, as well as maladaptive eating behaviour such as uncontrolled eating. The current study examined relationships between eating patterns and attention/executive function test performance in lean and obese individuals. Sixty‐two (32 lean, 30 obese) healthy young adults (21.13 ± 2.31 years; 56.5% female) completed the abbreviated Three‐Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ‐R18) to assess eating patterns, including uncontrolled eating, cognitive restraint, and emotional eating. The Go/No‐Go (GNG), Running Memory Continuous Performance Test (RCMPT) and Standard Continuous Performance Test from the Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics‐4 were administered as measures of executive functioning and attention. An independent samples t‐test revealed greater report of uncontrolled eating in obese compared with lean participants (t[60] = −2.174, P < 0.05; d = −0.55) but no differences in cognitive restraint or emotional eating. Multivariate analysis of variance revealed cognitive differences between lean and obese groups (F[6, 54] = 3.86, P < 0.005; λ = 0.70; ηp2 = 0.30), which were driven by GNG reaction time (F[1, 59] = 8.36, P < 0.01, d = 0.74). Pearson bivariate correlations revealed a positive correlation between uncontrolled eating and reaction time on GNG (r = 0.343, P < 0.05) and RMCPT (r = 0.267, P < 0.05) in all participants. Relative to lean participants, obese individuals reported higher levels of uncontrolled eating and exhibited slower performance on a task of inhibitory control. In the full sample, greater self‐reported dyscontrol in eating behaviour was related to slower inhibitory control and working memory. Results support a link between executive function and control of eating behaviour. Obese individuals may be more vulnerable to difficulties in these domains relative to those who are lean.
The cost‐effectiveness of the LighterLife weight management programme as an intervention for obesity in England
Authors: Lewis L. , Taylor M. , Broom J. , Johnston K. L.
Published: May 2014

LighterLife Total is a very low calorie diet total dietary replacement weight reduction programme that provides Foodpacks, behavioural change therapy and group support appropriate for people with a body mass index of 30 kg m−2 or above. A model was built to assess the cost‐effectiveness of LighterLife Total, compared with (i) no treatment, Counterweight, Weight Watchers and Slimming World, as a treatment for obesity in those with a body mass index of 30 kg m−2 or above, and (ii) no treatment, gastric banding and gastric bypass in those with a body mass index of 40 kg m−2 or above. Change in body mass index over time was modelled, and prevalence of comorbidities (diabetes, coronary heart disease and colorectal cancer) was calculated. Costs (of intervention and treatment for comorbidities) and quality‐adjusted life years were calculated. LighterLife Total was cost‐effective against no treatment, Counterweight, Weight Watchers and Slimming World in the 30+ kg m−2 group (incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios: £11 895, £12 453, £12 585 and £12 233, respectively). In the 40+ kg m−2 group, LighterLife Total was cost‐effective against no treatment (incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio: £4356), but less effective than gastric banding and bypass.
Factor analysis of treatment outcomes from aUKspecialist addiction service: Relationship between theLeedsDependenceQuestionnaire,SocialSatisfactionQuestionnaire and 10‐itemClinicalOutcomes inRoutineEvaluation
Authors: Fairhurst Caroline , Böhnke Jan R. , Gabe Rhian , Croudace Tim J. , Tober Gillian , Raistrick Duncan
Published: May 2014

Introduction and Aims

To examine the relationship between three outcome measures used by a specialist addiction service (UK): the Leeds Dependence Questionnaire (LDQ), the Social Satisfaction Questionnaire (SSQ) and the 10‐item Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation (CORE‐10).

Design and Method

A clinical sample of 715 service user records was extracted from a specialist addiction service (2011) database. TheLDQ(dependence),SSQ(social satisfaction) andCORE‐10 (psychological distress) were routinely administered at the start of treatment and again between 3 and 12 months post‐treatment. A mixed pre/post‐treatment dataset of 526 service users was subjected to exploratory factor analysis.ParallelAnalysis and theHull method were used to suggest the most parsimonious factor solution.

Results

Exploratory factor analysis with three factors accounted for 66.2% of the total variance butParallelAnalysis supported two factors as sufficient to account for observed correlations among items. In the two‐factor solution,LDQitems and nine of the 10CORE‐10 items loaded on the first factor>0.41, and theSSQitems on factor 2 with loadings>0.63. A two dimensional summary appears sufficient and clinically meaningful.

Discussion and Conclusions

Among specialist addiction service users, social satisfaction appears to be a unique construct of addiction and is not the same as variation due to psychological distress or dependence. Our interpretation of the findings is that dependence is best thought of as a specific psychological condition subsumed under the construct psychological distress.[Fairhurst C, Böhnke JR, Gabe R, Croudace TJ, Tober G, Raistrick D. Factor analysis of treatment outcomes from aUKspecialist addiction service: Relationship between theLeedsDependenceQuestionnaire,SocialSatisfactionQuestionnaire and 10‐itemClinicalOutcomes inRoutineEvaluation.Drug Alcohol Rev2014;33:643–650]