bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An immunodominant La/SSB autoantibody proteome derives from public clonotypes
Authors: Thurgood L A , Arentz G , Lindop R , Jackson M W , Whyte A F , Colella A D , Chataway T K , Gordon T P
Published: July 2013

The La/SSB autoantigen is a major target of long-term humoral autoimmunity in primary Sjögren's Syndrome (SS) and systemic lupus erythematosus. A majority of patients with linked anti-Ro60/Ro52/La responses target an NH2-terminal epitope designated LaA that is expressed on Ro/La ribonucleoprotein complexes and the surface membrane of apoptotic cells. In this study, we used high-resolution Orbitrap mass spectrometry to determine the clonality, isotype and V-region sequences of LaA-specific autoantibodies in seven patients with primary SS. Anti-LaA immunoglobulin (Ig)Gs purified from polyclonal sera by epitope-specific affinity chromatography were analysed by combined database and de-novo mass spectrometric sequencing. Autoantibody responses comprised two heavily mutated IgG1 kappa-restricted monoclonal species that were shared (public) across unrelated patients; one clonotype was specified by an IGHV3-30 heavy chain paired with IGKV3-15 light chain and the second by an IGHV3-43/IGKV3-20 pairing. Shared amino acid replacement mutations were also seen within heavy and light chain complementarity-determining regions, consistent with a common breach of B cell tolerance followed by antigen-driven clonal selection. The discovery of public clonotypic autoantibodies directed against an immunodominant epitope on La, taken together with recent findings for the linked Ro52 and Ro60 autoantigens, supports a model of systemic autoimmunity in which humoral responses against protein–RNA complexes are mediated by public sets of autoreactive B cell clonotypes.
Premature ageing of the immune system relates to increased anti-lymphocyte antibodies (ALA) after an immunization in HIV-1-infected and kidney-transplanted patients
Authors: Cagigi A , Rinaldi S , Santilli V , Mora N , C. Manno E , Cotugno N , Zangari P , Aquilani A , Guzzo I , Dello Strologo L , Rossi P , Palma P
Published: July 2013

Low-affinity immunoglobulin (Ig)G with potential autoreactivity to lymphocytes and hypergammaglobulinaemia have been described previously in HIV-1-infected patients. Whether such antibodies increase after challenging the immune system, for example with an immunization, is not known. In the present study, the modulation of antibodies with low affinity and potential autoreactivity was evaluated after 2012–13 seasonal flu vaccination with a simple empirical laboratory test measuring the titres of anti-lymphocyte antibodies (ALA) in two different models of secondary immunodeficiency: HIV-1 vertically infected patients (HIV) and patients treated with immunosuppressive therapies after kidney transplantation (KT) compared to healthy individuals (HC). In parallel, the activation status of B cells and their degree of immune senescence was evaluated by measuring the B cell interleukin (IL)-21R expression/plasma IL-21 levels and the frequencies of mature-activated (MA) and double-negative (DN) B cells. A significant increase of ALA titres was observed after vaccination in HIV and KT but not in HC, and this correlated directly with the frequencies of both MA and DN and inversely with the B cell IL-21R expression. This suggests that the quality of an immune response triggered by flu vaccination in HIV and KT may depend upon the activation status of B cells and on their degree of immune senescence. Further investigations are needed to verify whether high frequencies of MA and DN may also relate to increase autoimmunity after immunization in high-risk populations.
Protective creams fail to prevent solvent‐induced cumulative skin irritation – results of a randomized double‐blind study
Authors: Schliemann Sibylle , Kleesz Peter , Elsner Peter
Published: July 2013

Background

Occupational skin contact with lipophilic substances is a risk factor for the development of irritant hand dermatitis. Skin protection creams form part of the personal protective equipment, and some are claimed to protect against lipophilic irritants. However, their benefit against solvents is under debate.

Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy of barrier creams claimed to protect against lipophilic irritants in a newly developed repetitive irritation model.

Methods

Thirty‐five healthy volunteers were enrolled in a double‐blind, randomized study, and six barrier creams were evaluated against irritation induced by two occupationally relevant model solvents, n‐octane and cumene. Clinical scoring and bioengineering methods (capacitance and transepidermal water loss measurements) were used to quantify the irritant reactions.

Results

None of the test products offered protection against n‐octane‐induced clinical irritation or stratum corneum dehydration. One test product significantly aggravated the skin irritation induced by both irritants, and a second one enhanced dehydration induced by n‐octane only.

Conclusions

The lack of efficacy and the aggravation of skin irritation induced by two of six test products stress the need for standardized efficacy testing of occupational skin protection products.
Cobalt, nickel and chromium release from dental tools and alloys
Authors: Kettelarij Jolinde A. B. , Lidén Carola , Axén Emmy , Julander Anneli
Published: July 2013

Background

Cobalt–chromium alloys are used as casting alloys by dental technicians when producing dental prostheses and implants. Skin exposure and metal release from alloys and tools used by the dental technicians have not been studied previously.

Objectives

To study the release of cobalt, nickel and chromium from alloys and tools that come into contact with the skin of dental technicians.

Methods

Cobalt and nickel release from tools and alloys was tested with the cobalt spot test and the dimethylglyoxime test for nickel. Also, the release of cobalt, nickel and chromium in artificial sweat (EN1811) at different time‐points was assessed. Analysis was performed with inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry.

Results

Sixty‐one tools were spot tested; 20% released nickel and 23% released cobalt. Twenty‐one tools and five dental alloys were immersed in artificial sweat. All tools released cobalt, nickel and chromium. The ranges were 0.0047–820, 0.0051–10 and 0.010–160 µg/cm2/week for cobalt, nickel and chromium, respectively. All dental alloys released cobalt in artificial sweat, with a range of 0.0010–17 µg/cm2/week, and they also released nickel and chromium at low concentrations.

Conclusions

Sensitizing metals are released from tools and alloys used by dental technicians. This may cause contact allergy and hand eczema.
The prevalence of dental trauma and its association with illicit drug use among adolescents
Authors: de Oliveira Filho Paulo Messias , Jorge Kelly Oliva , Paiva Paula Cristina Pelli , Ferreira Efigênia Ferreira e , Ramos‐Jorge Maria Letícia , Zarzar Patrícia Maria
Published: July 2013

Background/Aim

Dental trauma has been associated with predisposing factors such as gender and age, and biological characteristics such as overjet and socio‐economic factors. However, research literature associating the use of illicit drugs with dental trauma is scarce. The aim of this survey is to investigate the prevalence of dental trauma and the association of the same with the use of illicit drugs among adolescents.

Material and Methods

A transversal analysis was conducted using a representative sample of 701 students between the ages of 14 and 19. Data were gathered by means of clinical examinations and self‐administered questionnaires. The ABA‐ABIPEME tool was adopted for the assessment of socio‐economic conditions and ASSIST (Screening Test for Involvement with Alcohol, Cigarettes, and Other Substances) as a standard for the consumption of illicit drugs.

Results

The prevalence of dental trauma was 26.6% (183/687) and that of illicit drug use 7% (48/684). Dental trauma was more prevalent among older adolescents (P = 0.010) with overjet greater than 3 mm (P = 0.005) in males (P = 0.001) who had used marijuana and/or cocaine in their lifetime (P = 0.005). The Poisson regression results revealed that illicit drug use was still associated with dental trauma independent of other variables [PR = 1.54 (95% CI: 1.06–2.24) P = 0.022].

Conclusions

The prevalence of dental trauma was high and associated with the use of illicit drugs.
Rural and remote early psychosis intervention services: the Gordian knot of early intervention
Authors: Cheng Chiachen , Dewa Carolyn S. , Langill Gord , Fata Mirella , Loong Desmond
Published: July 2013

Aim

One of the basic challenges of Early Psychosis Intervention (EPI) programs for rural populations is translating best practice which developed for urban high‐population density areas to rural and remote settings. This paper presents data from two different models (hub and spoke and specialist outreach) of rural EPI practice in Ontario, Canada.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study used a convenience sample of clients from two rural EPI programs between 2005 and 2007. Data about client outcomes specific to general functioning, admissions to hospital and emergency room (ER) visits were collected. For all dichotomous variables, chi‐square tests were used to test differences between two groups.

Results

The total clients served in hub and spoke were 457 compared to 91 in specialist outreach. Although not statistically significant, the hub and spoke group showed better functioning in the community. There was a significant difference between the two groups with regard to hospital admissions. Although not significant, there was a greater percentage (58.3%) of specialist outreach clients who visited the ER in the previous 12 months as compared to clients serviced by the hub and spoke model (34.9%).

Conclusions

The observed data from these two rural models suggest that there may be differing outcomes. There are limitations to this study, and this paper does not address why there are differences. Future work needs to continue to further explore why differences exist and whether they persist so we can provide equity and quality care for rural and remote populations.
The resting‐state neurovascular coupling relationship: rapid changes in spontaneous neural activity in the somatosensory cortex are associated with haemodynamic fluctuations that resemble stimulus‐evoked haemodynamics
Authors: Bruyns‐Haylett Michael , Harris Sam , Boorman Luke , Zheng Ying , Berwick Jason , Jones Myles
Published: July 2013

Although promise exists for patterns of resting‐state blood oxygen level‐dependent (BOLD) functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) brain connectivity to be used as biomarkers of early brain pathology, a full understanding of the nature of the relationship between neural activity and spontaneous fMRI BOLD fluctuations is required before such data can be correctly interpreted. To investigate this issue, we combined electrophysiological recordings of rapid changes in multi‐laminar local field potentials from the somatosensory cortex of anaesthetized rats with concurrent two‐dimensional optical imaging spectroscopy measurements of resting‐state haemodynamics that underlie fluctuations in the BOLD fMRI signal. After neural ‘events’ were identified, their time points served to indicate the start of an epoch in the accompanying haemodynamic fluctuations. Multiple epochs for both neural ‘events’ and the accompanying haemodynamic fluctuations were averaged. We found that the averaged epochs of resting‐state haemodynamic fluctuations taken after neural ‘events’ closely resembled the temporal profile of stimulus‐evoked cortical haemodynamics. Furthermore, we were able to demonstrate that averaged epochs of resting‐state haemodynamic fluctuations resembling the temporal profile of stimulus‐evoked haemodynamics could also be found after peaks in neural activity filtered into specific electroencephalographic frequency bands (theta, alpha, beta, and gamma). This technique allows investigation of resting‐state neurovascular coupling using methodologies that are directly comparable to that developed for investigating stimulus‐evoked neurovascular responses.
Paradoxical increase in survival of newborn neurons in the dentate gyrus of mice with constitutive depletion of serotonin
Authors: Diaz Silvina L. , Narboux‐Nême Nicolas , Trowbridge Sara , Scotto‐Lomassese Sophie , Kleine Borgmann Felix B. , Jessberger Sebastian , Giros Bruno , Maroteaux Luc , Deneris Evan , Gaspar Patricia
Published: July 2013

Increased adult neurogenesis is a major neurobiological correlate of the beneficial effects of antidepressants. Indeed, selective serotonin (5‐HT) re‐uptake inhibitors, which increase 5‐HT transmission, enhance adult neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus (DG) of the hippocampus. However, the consequences of 5‐HT depletion are still unclear as studies using neurotoxins that target serotonergic neurons reached contradictory conclusions on the role of 5‐HT on DG cell proliferation. Here, we analysed two genetic models of 5‐HT depletion, the Pet1−/− and the VMAT2f/f; SERTcre/+ mice, which have, respectively, 80 and 95% reductions in hippocampal 5‐HT. In both models, we found unchanged cell proliferation of the neural precursors in the DG subgranular zone, whereas a significant increase in the survival of newborn neurons was noted 1 and 4 weeks after BrdU injections. This pro‐survival trait was phenocopied pharmacologically with 5‐HT synthesis inhibitor PCPA treatment in adults, indicating that this effect was not developmental. Furthermore, a 1‐week administration of the 5‐HT1A receptor agonist 8‐OH‐DPAT in Pet1−/− and PCPA‐treated mice normalised hippocampal cell survival. Overall, our results indicate that constitutive 5‐HT depletion does not alter the proliferation of neural precursors in the DG but promotes the survival of newborn cells, an effect which involves activation of postsynaptic 5‐HT1A receptors. The role of 5‐HT in selective neuronal elimination points to a new facet in its multiple effects in controlling neural circuit maturation.
A mathematical model of negative covariability of inter‐columnar excitatory synaptic actions caused by presynaptic inhibition
Authors: Saito Mitsuru , Tanaka Takuma , Sato Hajime , Toyoda Hiroki , Aoyagi Toshio , Kang Youngnam
Published: July 2013

We previously showed that a positive covariability between intracortical excitatory synaptic actions onto the two layer three pyramidal cells (PCs) located in mutually adjacent columns is changed into a negative covariability by column‐wise presynaptic inhibition of intracortical inputs, implicated as a basis for the desynchronization of inter‐columnar synaptic actions. Here we investigated how the inter‐columnar desynchronization is modulated by the strength of presynaptic inhibition or other factors, by using a mathematical model. Based on our previous findings on the paired‐pulse depression (PPD) of intracortical excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) evoked in PCs located in the stimulated home column (HC) but no PPD in PCs located in the adjacent column (AC), a mathematical model of synaptic connections between PCs and inhibitory interneurons was constructed. When the paired‐pulse ratio (PPR) was decreased beyond 0.80, the correlation coefficient between the two second EPSC amplitudes in the paired PCs located in the HC and AC and that in the paired PCs located in the same HC exhibited opposite changes, and reached a global negative maximum and local positive maximum, respectively, at almost the same PPR (0.40). At this PPR, the desynchronization between the two cell assemblies in mutually adjacent columns would be maximized. These positive and negative covariabilities were not produced without background oscillatory synchronization across columns and were enhanced by increasing the synchronization magnitude, indicating that the synchronization leads to the desynchronization. We propose that a slow oscillatory synchronization across columns may emerge following the liberation from the column‐wise presynaptic inhibition of inter‐columnar synaptic inputs.
Chemical mimicry of insect oviposition sites: a global analysis of convergence in angiosperms
Authors: Jürgens Andreas , Wee Suk‐Ling , Shuttleworth Adam , Johnson Steven D.
Published: July 2013

Floral mimicry of decaying plant or animal material has evolved in many plant lineages and exploits, for the purpose of pollination, insects seeking oviposition sites. Existing studies suggest that volatile signals play a particularly important role in these mimicry systems. Here, we present the first large‐scale phylogenetically informed study of patterns of evolution in the volatile emissions of plants that mimic insect oviposition sites. Multivariate analyses showed strong convergent evolution, represented by distinct clusters in chemical phenotype space of plants that mimic animal carrion, decaying plant material, herbivore dung and omnivore/carnivore faeces respectively. These plants deploy universal infochemicals that serve as indicators for the main nutrients utilised by saprophagous, coprophagous and necrophagous insects. The emission of oligosulphide‐dominated volatile blends very similar to those emitted by carrion has evolved independently in at least five plant families (Annonaceae, Apocynaceae, Araceae, Orchidaceae and Rafflesiaceae) and characterises plants associated mainly with pollination by necrophagous flies and beetles.
Clubiona spider (Araneae: Clubionidae) visiting flowers of nectariferous orchid Neottianthe cucullata
Authors: Suetsugu Kenji , Hayamizu Masato , Koike Naoki
Published: July 2013

Spiders are usually thought to obtain their energy for growth, maintenance and reproduction from captured prey. However, not all spiders should be assumed to receive all of their energy from prey. Accumulated studies have documented nectarivory in a wide variety of hunting spiders. We report a Clubiona spider visiting flowers of the nectariferous orchid Neottianthe cucullata as an example of spider nectarivory. In addition, during the visitations by Clubiona spider, pollinia removal was observed. The impact of the Clubiona spider on the N. cucullata reproductive success is also discussed.
The challenge with diagnosing rare diseases: The ‘zebra’ diagnosis
Authors: Southwood L. L.
Published: July 2013

See also article by Raes et al.

See also article by Mahne et al.
Equine castration: A review of techniques, complications and their management
Authors: Kilcoyne I.
Published: July 2013

Complications associated with castration occur commonly and, although the majority are mild and resolve easily, potentially life‐threatening complications can occur. The preoperative identification of risk factors for these complications can help the veterinarian to take the appropriate measures to reduce these risks. However, even with proper surgical technique, complications can occur. Therefore prompt recognition and initiation of appropriate therapy are essential to prevent further morbidity, death or lawsuits.
Do trophic subsidies affect the outcome of introductions of a non‐native freshwater fish?
Authors: Jackson Michelle C. , Allen Rachel , Pegg Josephine , Britton J. Robert
Published: July 2013

Understanding how environmental variables and human disturbances influence the outcomes of introductions of non‐native freshwater fish is integral to their risk management. This can be complex in freshwater ecosystems that receive subsidies that increase food availability, as these may influence the outcome of introductions through promoting the survival, reproduction and establishment of the introduced propagules through increasing their access to food resources.

We determined how natural and/or artificial trophic subsidies affected the reproduction and establishment of the introduced topmouth gudgeon (Pseudorasbora parva) in replicated pond mesocosms. The mesocosms all started with eight mature fish and were run for 100 days during their reproductive season. The subsidies consisted of natural terrestrial prey and/or fishmeal pellets (a common trophic subsidy that can be significant in systems that are used as sport fisheries or for aquaculture).

After 100 days, fish in the natural subsidy ponds showed minimal growth and very low reproductive output. Analysis of δ13C and δ15N indicated that their progeny, 0+ fish produced in the ponds, exploited the terrestrial prey. By contrast, in ponds where pellets were added, mineral nutrient availability and primary production were significantly increased, and the mature fish fed mainly on the aquatic resources. The increased productivity of the ponds significantly increased fish growth and fitness, resulting in high numbers of 0+ individuals that did feed on the pellets.

Thus, subsidies that can increase both primary production and food resources (such as pelletised fishmeal) can significantly influence the ability of colonists to establish a population rapidly. Management efforts to minimise the risk of introductions should thus consider the role of these types of allochthonous subsidies.
Soil–plant N processes in a High Arctic ecosystem, NW Greenland are altered by long‐term experimental warming and higher rainfall
Authors: Schaeffer Sean M. , Sharp Elizabeth , Schimel Joshua P. , Welker Jeffery M.
Published: July 2013

Rapid temperature and precipitation changes in High Arctic tundra ecosystems are altering the biogeochemical cycles of carbon (C) and nitrogen (N), but in ways that are difficult to predict. The challenge grows from the uncertainty of N cycle responses and the extent to which shifts in soil N are coupled with the C cycle and productivity of tundra systems. We used a long‐term (since 2003) experiment of summer warming and supplemental summer water additions to a High Arctic ecosystem in NW Greenland, and applied a combination of discrete sampling and in situ soil core incubations to measure C and N pools and seasonal microbial processes that might control plant‐available N. We hypothesized that elevated temperature and increased precipitation would stimulate microbial activity and net inorganic N mineralization, thereby increasing plant N‐availability through the growing season. While we did find increased N mineralization rates under both global change scenarios, water addition also significantly increased net nitrification rates, loss of NO3−‐N via leaching, and lowered rates of labile organic N production. We also expected the chronic warming and watering would lead to long‐term changes in soil N‐cycling that would be reflected in soil δ15N values. We found that soil δ15N decreased under the different climate change scenarios. Our results suggest that temperature accelerates biological processes and existing C and N transformations, but moisture increases soil hydraulic connectivity and so alters the pathways, and changes the fate of the products of C and N transformations. In addition, our findings indicate that warmer, wetter High Arctic tundra will be cycling N and C in ways that may transform these landscapes in part leading to greater C sequestration, but simultaneously, N losses from the upper soil profile that may be transported to depth dissolved in water and or transported off site in lateral flow.
Symbiotic specificity, association patterns, and function determine community responses to global changes: defining critical research areas for coral‐Symbiodinium symbioses
Authors: Fabina Nicholas S. , Putnam Hollie M. , Franklin Erik C. , Stat Michael , Gates Ruth D.
Published: July 2013

Climate change‐driven stressors threaten the persistence of coral reefs worldwide. Symbiotic relationships between scleractinian corals and photosynthetic endosymbionts (genus Symbiodinium) are the foundation of reef ecosystems, and these associations are differentially impacted by stress. Here, we couple empirical data from the coral reefs of Moorea, French Polynesia, and a network theoretic modeling approach to evaluate how patterns in coral‐Symbiodinium associations influence community stability under climate change. To introduce the effect of climate perturbations, we simulate local ‘extinctions’ that represent either the loss of coral species or the ability to engage in symbiotic interactions. Community stability is measured by determining the duration and number of species that persist through the simulated extinctions. Our results suggest that four factors greatly increase coral‐Symbiodinium community stability in response to global changes: (i) the survival of generalist hosts and symbionts maximizes potential symbiotic unions; (ii) elevated symbiont diversity provides redundant or complementary symbiotic functions; (iii) compatible symbiotic assemblages create the potential for local recolonization; and (iv) the persistence of certain traits associate with symbiotic diversity and redundancy. Symbiodinium may facilitate coral persistence through novel environmental regimes, but this capacity is mediated by symbiotic specificity, association patterns, and the functional performance of the symbionts. Our model‐based approach identifies general trends and testable hypotheses in coral‐Symbiodinium community responses. Future studies should consider similar methods when community size and/or environmental complexity preclude experimental approaches.
Mass transfer kinetics and mathematical modelling of the osmotic dehydration of orange‐fleshed honeydew melon in corn syrup and sucrose solutions
Authors: Barbosa Júnior José Lucena , Cordeiro Mancini Maurício , Hubinger Miriam Dupas
Published: July 2013

A simple mathematical model to predict dehydration and impregnation process during osmotic dehydration of orange‐fleshed honeydew in sucrose and corn syrup solutions was proposed. Results showed low dispersion and a good fitting capability for WL and SG kinetics. Diffusivity values for WL ranged from 0.96 × 10−10 to 2.22 × 10−10 and 1.04 × 10−10 to 3.10 × 10−10 m2 s−1 in corn syrup and sucrose solutions, respectively. For SG, the obtained range was 0.72 × 10−10 to 2.35 × 10−10 and 0.71 × 10−10 to 2.46 × 10−10 m2 s−1 in corn syrup and sucrose solutions, respectively. The half‐life of dehydration rates (t1/2) was from 30.9 to 71.2 min and from 19.4 to 57.5 min in corn syrup and sucrose solutions, respectively. Diffusivities values obtained according to the proposed model were close to the ones observed from diffusive model; t1/2 was a promising criterion for the process time definition.
Ethyl carbamate formation regulated by ornithine transcarbamylase and urea metabolism in the processing of Chinese yellow rice wine
Authors: Fang Ruo‐Si , Dong Ya‐Chen , Xu Teng‐Yang , He Guo‐Qing , Chen Qi‐He
Published: July 2013

Ethyl carbamate (EC) is a potential carcinogenic compound present in most of the fermented foods. In this work, EC was inhibited through different strategies during vinification of Chinese yellow rice wine. EC can be inhibited by the use of ornithine in contrast to the control at peak point. However, the utilisation of urease resulted in little inhibitive effect on EC. The comparative data of intracellular ornithine transcarbamylase (OTCase) and arginine deiminase (ADI) among four experiments showed that EC was positively regulated by intracellular OTCase, but ADI was not determined. Extracellular urea and citrulline content was significantly increased by adding ornithine (P < 0.05), whereas ethanol played a minor role in EC formation. The correlation analysis between EC and OTCase or urea revealed a linear association (correlation coefficients above 0.8). These findings suggested that OTCase may be a required factor regulating EC formation during the brewing of Chinese yellow rice wine.
Urinary incontinence after robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy: Pathophysiology and intraoperative techniques to improve surgical outcome
Authors: Kojima Yoshiyuki , Takahashi Norio , Haga Nobuhiro , Nomiya Masanori , Yanagida Tomohiko , Ishibashi Kei , Aikawa Ken , Lee David I
Published: July 2013

Robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy has been shown to have comparable and possibly improved postoperative continent rates compared with retropubic and laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. However, postoperative urinary incontinence has remained one of the most bothersome postoperative complications. The basic concept of the intraoperative technique to improve postoperative urinary continence is to maintain as normal anatomical and functional structure in the pelvis as possible. Therefore, improved knowledge of the normal structure in the pelvis should lead to a greater understanding of the pathophysiology of urinary incontinence, and further development of intraoperative techniques to improve the outcomes of urinary continence. It might be necessary to carry out three steps to realize improvement of the early return of urinary continence after robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy: (i) preservation (bladder neck, neurovascular bundle, puboprostatic ligament, pubovesical complex, and/or urethral length, etc.); (ii) reconstruction (posterior and/or anterior reconstruction, and/or reattachment of the arcus tendineus to the bladder neck, etc.); and (iii) reinforcement (bladder neck plication and/or sling suspension, etc.). On the basis of these steps, further modifications during robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy should be developed to improve urinary continence and quality of life after robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy.
Donation after cardiac death: are Australian emergency clinicians supportive?
Authors: Marck C. H. , Neate S. L. , Weiland T. J. , Hickey B. B. , Jelinek G. A.
Published: July 2013

To improve organ donation processes and outcomes, many Australian hospitals have introduced donation after cardiac death (DCD) following the 2010 publication of the National Protocol for DCD. As emergency clinicians play a significant role in identifying potential DCD donors, it is critical to assess their support and knowledge. Although many support DCD, most are unaware of the protocol or procedures regarding DCD. Education is needed and desired by many emergency clinicians.
Queensland tick typhus: three cases with unusual clinical features
Authors: Wilson P. A. , Tierney L. , Lai K. , Graves S.
Published: July 2013

Queensland tick typhus (QTT), caused byRickettsia australis, is usually a relatively mild illness but can occasionally be severe. We describe three cases of probableQTTwith unusual clinical features, namely splenic infarction, fulminant myopericarditis and severe leukocytoclastic vasculitis.QTTmay present with uncommon clinical features in addition to the more common manifestations. A high index of suspicion enables specific antibiotic therapy that may hasten recovery.
Association between short‐term structured risk assessment outcomes and seclusion
Authors: van de Sande Roland , Noorthoorn Eric , Wierdsma Andre , Hellendoorn Edwin , van der Staak Cees , Mulder Cornelius L. , Nijman Henk
Published: July 2013

Research findings indicate that the symptoms and behaviour of acute psychiatric patients can fluctuate drastically within hours, and that structured daily risk assessments can reduce the risk of aggressive incidents and the duration of seclusion. The aim of this study was to investigate the validity of two structured observation tools, the Brøset Violence Checklist (BVC) and the Kennedy Axis V), as an aid in seclusion‐related clinical decision‐making. In this study, 7403 day‐to‐day risk assessments were collected over 10 725 admission days (72% of the maximum number of structured assessments). A total of 7055 daily assessment scores from 301 acute psychiatric patients were used for the multilevel analysis. The sample demonstrated that dynamic and static factors were related to seclusion. Dynamic factors included dysfunctional scores on the item ‘confusion’ of the Brøset Violence Checklist, and psychological impairment and impairment of social skills on the Kennedy Axis V. Static factors included non‐Western descent, male sex, age less than 35 years, unmarried, and to some extent, a personality disorder. McFadden's pseudo R2 value showed that most of the final model was related to the dynamic factors. We concluded that the incorporation of the BVC and the Kennedy Axis V into standard practice was helpful in identifying patients at high risk of seclusion.
Innovative Approach to Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy for Treatment of Unilateral Adrenal Gland Tumors in Dogs
Authors: Naan Elaine C. , Kirpensteijn Jolle , Dupré Gilles P. , Galac Sara , Radlinsky MaryAnn G.
Published: July 2013

Objective

To report a technique for, and short‐term outcome of unilateral laparoscopic adrenalectomy in dogs positioned in sternal recumbency without abdominal support.

Study Design

Experimental and prospective clinical study.

Animals

Healthy dogs (n = 5) and dogs with unilateral adrenal gland tumor (n = 9).

Methods

Anesthetized dogs were positioned in sternal recumbency with 2 cushions placed under the dog to elevate the chest and pelvic area so that the abdomen was not in contact with the surgical table allowing gravitational displacement of the abdominal viscera. Three 5‐mm portals were located in the paralumbar fossa. Adrenal glands were carefully dissected and surrounding tissues sealed and cut using a vessel‐sealing device. A retrieval bag or part of a surgical glove finger was used to remove the adrenal gland from the abdomen. Surgical time and complications were recorded, and short‐term outcome assessed.

Results

Adrenal glands in normal dogs and unilateral adrenal tumors (8 left, 1 right) not involving the caudal vena cava in affected dogs were successfully removed laparoscopically. There were no major intraoperative complications. Of the dogs with adrenal tumors, 1 dog died within 24 hours of surgery from unrelated causes. Eight dogs recovered within 1 day and were discharged within 72 hours. Surgical times ranged from 42 to 117 minutes and were significantly shorter than those reported previously.

Conclusions

Positioning anesthetized dogs in sternal recumbency with the abdomen suspended to facilitate gravitational displacement of the abdominal viscera improves access to, and visibility of, the adrenal gland for laparoscopic removal.
The Effect of Secondary Markets on Equity‐Linked Life Insurance With Surrender Guarantees
Authors: Hilpert Christian , Li Jing , Szimayer Alexander
Published: July 2013

Many equity‐linked life insurance products offer the possibility to surrender policies prematurely. Secondary markets for policies with surrender guarantees influence both policyholders and insurers. We show that secondary markets lead to a gap in policy value between insurer and policyholder. Insurers increase premiums to adjust for higher surrender rates of customers and optimized surrender behavior by investors acquiring the policies on secondary markets. Hence, the existence of secondary markets is not necessarily profitable for the primary policyholders. The result depends on the demand for and the supply of the contracts brought to the secondary markets.
Deregulation or Governmental Intervention? A Counterfactual Perspective on China's Electricity Market Reform
Authors: Chen Sumei , He Lingyun
Published: July 2013

The long‐standing severe power shortage in China has provoked much debate on whether China should further promote market‐oriented electricity reform. The present paper addresses this issue by analyzing the impacts of deregulation of the electricity generation sector and retailing activities on other sectors, the macroeconomy and electricity users. A counterfactual scenario analysis is used based on a simplified computable general equilibrium framework. We find that deregulation can significantly improve the efficiency of electricity production, increase employment and enhance household welfare. These nontrivial findings can help to resolve many controversies about governmental intervention during China's economic transition. Our findings have two implications relating to policy feasibility and applicability; that is, competition in the electricity retail market should be phased in, and the necessary arrangements for unemployment in incumbent firms should be considered.
Erectile Dysfunction and Target Organ Damage in the Early Stages of Hypertension
Authors: Kakkavas Apostolos , Tsioufis Costas , Tsiachris Dimitris , Thomopoulos Costas , Dimitriadis Kyriakos , Milkas Anastasios , Alexopoulos Dimitrios , Kallikazaros Ioannis , Stefanadis Christodoulos
Published: July 2013

The authors investigated whether erectile dysfunction (ED) in the early stages of hypertension is associated with heightened end‐organ damage. A total of 174 consecutive men with untreated, newly diagnosed essential hypertension (aged 50.3 years, office blood pressure [BP] 150/98 mm Hg) were studied. All participants underwent 24‐hour ambulatory BP monitoring, blood examination, albumin‐creatinine ratio, carotid‐femoral pulse‐wave velocity assessment, and echocardiography for estimation of left ventricular mass index and diastolic function. Hypertensive men with ED (n=43, 24.7%) compared with those without ED were older (by 6.4 years, P<.05), had greater 24‐hour pulse pressure (by 4.3 mm Hg, P=.011) and a greater prevalence of nondipping status (72.2% vs 46.7%, P=.008), while the two groups did not differ in plasma glucose, lipid, creatinine, and albumin/creatinine ratio levels. Regarding cardiac adaptations, hypertensive men with ED exhibited only significantly lower tissue Doppler imaging–derived Em (by 1.6 cm/s, adjusted P=.035), while no difference in left ventricular mass index or pulse wave velocity were detected. ED in the setting of untreated newly diagnosed essential hypertension does not have an unfavorable impact on traditional markers of target organ damage. This finding suggests that ED assessment might not refine the traditional risk stratification procedure at least in the early stages of hypertensive disease.
The effects of stress on periodontal treatment: a longitudinal investigation using clinical and biological markers
Authors: Bakri Issam , Douglas Charles W. Ian , Rawlinson Andrew
Published: July 2013

Aim

To investigate the effects of psychosocial stress on the outcome of non‐surgical periodontal treatment (NPT).

Methods

Patients were categorized as stressed or unstressed, and the degree of stress was measured. One deep bleeding and one deep non‐bleeding site ≥6 mm were selected in each patient for detailed investigation, and the clinical parameters were recorded before and at 6 months after NPT. Elastase and C‐terminal teleopeptide of type I collagen (ICTP) were measured in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples at both intervals.

Results

The baseline, clinical parameters and biological markers were similar in both stressed and unstressed groups, other than for GCF elastase levels, which were significantly higher in the stressed group of patients (p < 0.05). The effect of stress on the changes for clinical measurements and elastase levels in GCF was statistically significant for deep bleeding sites, with the response to treatment being poorer in the stressed group. The effects of smoking and the degree of stress were not statistically significant for any of the clinical or biological parameters (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Patients under psychosocial stress had a poorer outcome following NPT. The assessment of psychosocial stress may be valuable in the holistic management of periodontal disease.
Alcohol consumption and psoriasis: a systematic literature review
Authors: Brenaut E. , Horreau C. , Pouplard C. , Barnetche T. , Paul C. , Richard M.‐A. , Joly P. , Le Maître M. , Aractingi S. , Aubin F. , Cribier B. , Jullien D. , Ortonne J.‐P. , Misery L.
Published: July 2013

The association between alcohol consumption and psoriasis has been frequently discussed since the 1980s, but no systematic review has been elaborated on the subject so far.

The aim of this systematic literature review was to assess whether alcohol consumption is more prevalent in psoriasis patients than in the general population and whether alcohol consumption is a risk factor of psoriasis.

A systematic literature search was carried out in the Medline, Embase and Cochrane databases using the keywords ‘psoriasis’ AND ‘alcohol drinking’ OR ‘alcohol‐related disorders’. The search was then enlarged with the keywords ‘psoriasis’ AND ‘risk factor’ OR ‘comorbidity’.

Altogether 911 references in English and French were found. Out of these, 837 articles were excluded by reading the abstract and 46 by reading the article. A total of 28 articles were selected. Alcohol consumption in psoriasis patients versus the general population: 23 studies were selected; 18 concluded that alcohol consumption was more prevalent in psoriasis patients, and 5 did not. Three studies compared the prevalence of excessive drinking using a questionnaire on alcohol dependence (CAGE or Self‐administered alcohol screening test (SAAST)) or with quantitative criteria for excessive drinking. In these studies, excessive drinking was more prevalent among psoriasis patients than in the general population. Other articles studied the quantity and type of alcohol consumed. In 11 studies, psoriasis patients consumed more alcohol than the controls. Four other studies showed excessive alcohol consumption in psoriasis patients without control group comparison. Conversely, five studies identified no difference in alcohol consumption between psoriasis patients and the general population. The heterogeneity in the measurement of alcohol consumption did not allow performing meta‐analysis. Alcohol as a risk factor for psoriasis: only five studies were selected. In four of these studies alcohol was found to be a risk factor for psoriasis.

Alcohol consumption seems to be greater in psoriasis patients than in the general population. However, there is not enough evidence to establish whether alcohol consumption is indeed a risk factor for psoriasis.
Risk of cancer in psoriasis: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of epidemiological studies
Authors: Pouplard C. , Brenaut E. , Horreau C. , Barnetche T. , Misery L. , Richard M.‐A. , Aractingi S. , Aubin F. , Cribier B. , Joly P. , Jullien D. , Le Maître M. , Ortonne J.‐P. , Paul C.
Published: July 2013

The relationship between psoriasis and increased cancer risk is debated.

The aim of this study was to evaluate if there is an increase in the background risk of cancer in psoriasis patients compared with the general population.

A systematic literature search was performed on PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases, using the keywords ‘Psoriasis [Majr] AND Neoplasms’, from 1980 to January 2012. Meta‐analysis was performed based on observational studies showing consistency in cancer risk assessment methods.

Of the 1080 articles retrieved, 37 references were selected. There may be an increased risk of some solid cancers in psoriasis: respiratory tract cancer [standardized incidence ratio (SIR) = 1.52, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.35–1.71], upper aerodigestive tract cancer (SIR = 3.05, 95% CI 1.74–5.32), urinary tract cancer (SIR = 1.31, 95% CI 1.11–1.55) and liver cancer (SIR = 1.90, 95% CI 1.48–2.44). The risk of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma appears slightly increased in psoriasis (SIR = 1.40, 95% CI 1.06–1.86). Psoriasis patients have an increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma (SIR = 5.3, 95% CI 2.63–10.71) and basal cell carcinoma (SIR = 2.00, 95% CI 1.83–2.20), whereas the risk of melanoma is not increased.

There was a large heterogeneity in studies assessing cancer risk in psoriasis preventing from including all studies in meta‐analysis.

This systematic literature review shows a small increased risk of some solid cancers in psoriasis, especially those linked to alcohol drinking and cigarette smoking. A higher risk of non‐melanoma skin cancers, especially squamous cell carcinoma, is shown, mainly due to previous exposure to 8‐methoxypsoralen‐ultraviolet‐A (PUVA), ciclosporin and possibly methotrexate.
Inferring signalling networks from images
Authors: EVANS L. , SAILEM H. , VARGAS P. PASCUAL , BAKAL C.
Published: July 2013

The mapping of signalling networks is one of biology's most important goals. However, given their size, complexity and dynamic nature, obtaining comprehensive descriptions of these networks has proven extremely challenging. A fast and cost‐effective means to infer connectivity between genes on a systems‐level is by quantifying the similarity between high‐dimensional cellular phenotypes following systematic gene depletion. This review describes the methodology used to map signalling networks using data generated in the context of RNAi screens.
Noninvasive fluorescence imaging of small animals
Authors: ZELMER A. , WARD T.H.
Published: July 2013

Noninvasive in vivo fluorescence imaging of small animals as a method in preclinical research has developed considerably in recent years, and is used widely across a variety of disciplines such as oncology and infectious disease research. It provides a means of detecting a fluorescent signal within a living animal reflecting specific, mostly disease‐related, processes, such as parts of the host immune response, inflammation, cancer growth or presence of pathogens. As well as offering many advantages as a standalone technique, it can also be highly complementary to other imaging modalities. This review discusses aspects of light distribution in animal tissue and the implications on in vivo imaging; the most widely used imaging techniques including planar and tomographic imaging; advantages and challenges of the techniques; fluorescent contrast agents and some examples of applications. Rather than in detail reviewing studies using in vivo fluorescence imaging, we focus on the principles and practicalities of the method itself, so that the reader can apply these to their own research question.
A Structural Approach to Market Definition With an Application to the Hospital Industry
Authors: Gaynor Martin S. , Kleiner Samuel A. , Vogt William B.
Published: July 2013

Market definition is common in merger analysis, and often the decisive factor in antitrust cases. This has been particularly relevant in the hospital industry, where many merger challenges have been denied due to disagreements over geographic market definition. We compare geographic markets produced using frequently employed ad hoc methodologies to structural methods that directly apply the ‘SSNIP test’ to California hospitals. Our results suggest that markets produced using previous methods overstate hospital demand elasticities by a factor of 2.4 to 3.4 and were likely a contributing factor to the permissive legal environment for hospital mergers.
A Dynamic Model of Auctions with Buy‐It‐Now: Theory and Evidence
Authors: Chen Jong‐Rong , Chen Kong‐Pin , Chou Chien‐Fu , Huang Ching‐I
Published: July 2013

In the ascending‐price auctions with Yahoo!‐type buy‐it‐now (BIN), we characterize and derive the closed‐form solution for the optimal bidding strategy of the bidders and the optimal BIN price of the seller when they are both risk‐averse. The seller is shown to be strictly better off with the BIN option, while the bidders are better off only when their valuation is high enough. The theory also implies that the expected transaction price is higher in an auction with an optimal BIN price than one without a BIN option. This prediction is confirmed by our data collected from Taiwan's Yahoo! auctions.
Are Losers Picked? An Empirical Analysis of Capacity Divestment and Production Reallocation in the Japanese Cement Industry
Authors: Nishiwaki Masato , Kwon Hyoeg Ug
Published: July 2013

As demand in an industry shrinks, pressure for the reduction of capacity arises. A key issue is whether plants which, from an efficiency perspective, should reduce output in fact do so. Focusing on the Japanese cement industry, we examine whether less efficient plants reduce capacity. We find that less efficient firms are not more likely to reduce capacity than more efficient firms; however, less efficient plants within a multi‐plant firm are more likely to reduce capacity than more efficient plants. In addition, we find that this divestment pattern has led to a substantial drop in industry‐wide allocative efficiency.