bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Newly designed plastic stent for endoscopic placement above the sphincter of Oddi in patients with malignant hilar biliary obstruction
Authors: Ishiwatari Hirotoshi , Hayashi Tsuyoshi , Ono Michihiro , Sato Tsutomu , Kato Junji
Published: April 2013

Background

Plastic stent (PS) occlusion occurs as a result of bacterial adherence to the stent's inner wall. To retain the bacteriological barrier, placing a PS above the sphincter of Oddi (‘inside stent’) has been investigated. We designed a new PS (inside stent with thread [IT] stent) with attachable nylon thread for use as an inside stent and for easy retrieval. The present study evaluated the IT stent's technical feasibility and efficacy for malignant hilar biliary obstruction.

Patients and Methods

A total of 26 consecutive patients with unresectable malignant hilar biliary obstruction underwent placement of IT stents from August 2007 to February 2011. IT stents were placed across the strictures without sphincterotomy to achieve bilateral drainage.

Results

The overall technical success rate of the IT stent was 100% for one session. Multiple IT stents were inserted in 25 cases(two stents in 15 patients, three stents in 10 patients). No stent‐related early complications occurred. The functional success rate was 92% (24/26). The rate of reintervention because of stent malfunction was 50% (13/26). In all 16 patients who underwent stent removal, IT stents were easily retrieved using the nylon thread. According to Kaplan–Meier analysis, the median stent patency period was 136 days.

Conclusion

IT stents for endoscopic placement above the sphincter of Oddi can be used safely and effectively for malignant hilar biliary obstruction.
Should plastic stents be avoided in all unresectable malignant perihilar biliary strictures?
Authors: Kawashima Hiroki , Itoh Akihiro , Ohno Eizaburo , Goto Hidemi , Hirooka Yoshiki
Published: April 2013

Clinical guidelines of the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy recommend the insertion of self‐expandable metallic stents (SEMS) as opposed to plastic stents (PS) in patients with unresectable malignant perihilar stricture (MHS). However, PS are cheaper and easier to insert into the biliary duct compared to SEMS. Furthermore, PS are removable and easy to move into subsequent drainage procedures. We conducted the present retrospective single‐center study to elucidate the predictive factors associated with stent patency period duration in patients with unresectable MHS who would benefit from a long patency period after PS placement. This study included 56 consecutive patients with unresectable MHS who were drained using PS. PS failure occurred in 26 (46.4%) patients. The median patency period was72 days (95% confidence interval: 29.8–114). The only significant predictive factor associated with the length of the stent patency period was history of previous endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST). Median patency periods with and without previous EST were 28 and 109 days, respectively (P = 0.016). In conclusion, we suggest that conventional biliary drainage with PS is still a suitable option for the treatment of unresectable MHS in patients without previous EST.
Risk analysis of submucosal invasive rectal carcinomas for lymph node metastasis to expand indication criteria for endoscopic resection
Authors: Oka Shiro , Tanaka Shinji , Nakadoi Koichi , Kanao Hiroyuki , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: April 2013

In the 2010 guidelines for the treatment of colorectal cancer from the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum (JSCCR), the criteria for identifying curable submucosal invasive colorectal carcinoma after endoscopic resection is as follows: differentiated adenocarcinoma, no vascular invasion, submucosal invasion depth <1000 μm and budding grade 1 (low grade). A total of 118 rectal submucosal carcinomas, treated by primary surgical resection or additional surgical resection with lymph node (LN) dissection, were analyzed. Relationships between clinicopathological findings and LN metastasis were evaluated. LN metastasis was found in 11.0% (13/118). There were no significant differences between clinicopathological findings and LN metastasis except for budding grade. Multivariate logistic regressionanalysis showed budding grade 2/3 (high grade) to be the independent risk factor for LN metastasis. When cases that met the curative condition of histological grade, tumor budding grade and vessel invasion together according to JSCCR 2010 criteria, the incidence of LN metastasis was only 2.2% (1/46, 95% confidence interval: 0.06–11.5%), regardless of the degree of submucosal invasion depth. In conclusion, even in cases of rectal carcinoma with submucosal deep invasion, the risk of LN metastasis is minimal under certain conditions.
Current status of endoscopic diagnosis and treatment of superficial Barrett's adenocarcinoma in Asia–Pacific region
Authors: Goda Kenichi , Singh Rajvinder , Oda Ichiro , Omae Masami , Takahashi Akiko , Koike Tomoyuki , Uedo Noriya , Hirasawa Dai , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro , Hirasawa Kingo , Morita Yoshinori , Ho Lawrence KY , Ajioka Yoichi
Published: April 2013

The incidence of Barrett's adenocarcinoma has increased dramatically over the past few decades in most Western countries. While Barrett's esophagus is uncommon and adenocarcinoma is still rare in Asian populations, several Asian studies have indicated that the prevalence of esophageal adenocarcinoma is gradually increasing. Therefore, in order to determine the best way to treat superficial Barrett's adenocarcinoma, 12 expert endoscopists and a pathologist from the Asia–Pacific region conducted a session entitled ‘The current status of endoscopic diagnosis and treatment of superficial Barrett's adenocarcinoma’. After three keynote lectures, three Japanese panels presented cases of superficial Barrett's adenocarcinomas diagnosed by image‐enhanced endoscopy (IEE). We then confirmed the results of a questionnaire on the diagnosis and treatment of superficial Barrett's adenocarcinomas. Finally, a panel introduced an Asia–Pacific international study on simplified narrow‐band imaging (NBI) classification of Barrett's esophagus and neoplasias. After adiscussion, we proposed consensus statements on endoscopic diagnosis and treatment of superficial Barrett's adenocarcinoma as follows. Representative characteristics by conventional white light endoscopy are a reddish area or a lesion located on the anterior to right side wall. IEE may be useful for characterizing the tumor and diagnosing lateral tumor extension. Superficial Barrett's adenocarcinoma adjacent to the squamocolumnar junction is sometimes associated with subsquamous tumor extension. IEE may be useful to detect the subsquamous tumor extension especially when using NBI or an acetic acid‐spraying method. Endoscopic mucosal resection or endoscopic submucosal dissection for mucosal carcinomas could provide excellent prognosis.
Adenocarcinoma arising from short‐segment Barrett's esophagus in a young man
Authors: Hirasawa Kingo , Sato Chiko , Sasaki Takeshi , Koh Ryonho , Oka Hiroyuki , Kokawa Atsushi , Tanaka Katsuaki , Maeda Shin
Published: April 2013

We report herein a case of adenocarcinoma arising from short‐segment Barrett's esophagus (SSBE) in a 36‐year‐old man. An elevated tumor was found at the esophagogastric junction, and a histological evaluation of the biopsy specimen led to a diagnosis of adenocarcinoma. The tumor was found to be confined to the mucosa surrounding the SSBE, and endoscopic submucosal dissection was done without complications. Histological examination of the resected specimen showed that the adenocarcinoma had also invaded the muscularis mucosae and provided evidenceof lymphovascular invasion. Additional surgical resection and regional lymph node dissection were therefore carried out; however, no lymph node metastasis was found. Adenocarcinoma arising from Barrett's mucosa is rare in young patients, especially in Japan, and this case is therefore particularly noteworthy.
Life history of anadromous burbot (Lota lota, Linneaus) in the brackish Baltic Sea inferred from otolith microchemistry
Authors: Rohtla Mehis , Vetemaa Markus , Taal Imre , Svirgsden Roland , Urtson Kristjan , Saks Lauri , Verliin Aare , Kesler Martin , Saat Toomas
Published: April 2013

Strontium to calcium (Sr:Ca) and barium to calcium (Ba:Ca) ratios were quantified in 74 otoliths of brackish water‐living burbot Lota lota, collected from two regions in the eastern Baltic Sea. Considerable amount of life history plasticity was observed. Ninety‐six per cent of analysed burbot were of freshwater origin; only three specimens displayed signs of hatching in low‐salinity (1–2) estuarine environment. Most of the juveniles emigrated from freshwater during late winter and spring the next year after birth, while nine individuals did so at the age of 2–3 months. Age and length at maturity (as determined by first freshwater spawning migration) varied from 2–6 years and 189–540 mm, respectively, with most of burbot maturing during the second or third year of life. It is hypothesised that the bulk juvenile downstream migration is triggered by high‐flow conditions as evidenced by Ba:Ca peak around the point of freshwater exit. This study provides new information on burbot life history.
Reward sensitivity modulates connectivity among reward brain areas during processing of anticipatory reward cues
Authors: Costumero Victor , Barrós‐Loscertales Alfonso , Bustamante Juan C. , Ventura‐Campos Noelia , Fuentes Paola , Ávila César
Published: April 2013

Reward sensitivity, or the tendency to engage in motivated approach behavior in the presence of rewarding stimuli, may be a contributory factor for vulnerability to disinhibitory behaviors. Although evidence exists for a reward sensitivity‐related increased response in reward brain areas (i.e. nucleus accumbens or midbrain) during the processing of reward cues, it is unknown how this trait modulates brain connectivity, specifically the crucial coupling between the nucleus accumbens, the midbrain, and other reward‐related brain areas, including the medial orbitofrontal cortex and the amygdala. Here, we analysed the relationship between effective connectivity and personality in response to anticipatory reward cues. Forty‐four males performed an adaptation of the Monetary Incentive Delay Task and completed the Sensitivity to Reward scale. The results showed the modulation of reward sensitivity on both activity and functional connectivity (psychophysiological interaction) during the processing of incentive cues. Sensitivity to reward scores related to stronger activation in the nucleus accumbens and midbrain during the processing of reward cues. Psychophysiological interaction analyses revealed that midbrain–medial orbitofrontal cortex connectivity was negatively correlated with sensitivity to reward scores for high as compared with low incentive cues. Also, nucleus accumbens–amygdala connectivity correlated negatively with sensitivity to reward scores during reward anticipation. Our results suggest that high reward sensitivity‐related activation in reward brain areas may result from associated modulatory effects of other brain regions within the reward circuitry.
Antibodies to cannabinoid type 1 receptor co‐react with stomatin‐like protein 2 in mouse brain mitochondria
Authors: Morozov Yury M. , Dominguez Martin H. , Varela Luis , Shanabrough Marya , Koch Marco , Horvath Tamas L. , Rakic Pasko
Published: April 2013

Anti‐cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1) polyclonal antibodies are widely used to detect the presence of CB1 in a variety of brain cells and their organelles, including neuronal mitochondria. Surprisingly, we found that anti‐CB1 sera, in parallel with CB1, also recognize the mitochondrial protein stomatin‐like protein 2. In addition, we show that the previously reported effect of synthetic cannabinoid WIN 55,212‐2 on mitochondrial complex III respiration is not detectable in purified mitochondrial preparations. Thus, our study indicates that a direct relationship between endocannabinoid signaling and mitochondrial functions in the cerebral cortex seems unlikely, and that caution should be taken interpreting findings obtained using anti‐CB1 antibodies.
Optimizing SPECT SISCOM analysis to localize seizure‐onset zone by using varying z scores
Authors: Newey Christopher R. , Wong Chong , Irene Wang Z. , Chen Xin , Wu Guiyun , Alexopoulos Andreas V.
Published: April 2013

Purpose

Subtraction ictal single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) co‐registered to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (SISCOM) is a useful modality to identify epileptogenic focus. Using this technique, several studies have generally considered the area of highest ictal hyperperfusion, as outlined by thresholding the difference images with a standard z score of 2, to be highly concordant to the epileptogenic focus. In clinical practice, several factors influence ictal hyperperfusion and using different SISCOM thresholds can be helpful. We aimed to systematically evaluate the localizing value of various z scores (1, 1.5, 2, and 2.5) in a seizure‐free cohort following resective epilepsy surgery, and to examine the localizing information of perfusion patterns observed at each z score.

Methods

Twenty‐six patients were identified as having ictal‐interictal SPECT images, preoperative and postoperative MRI studies, and having remained seizure free for at least 6 months after temporal or extratemporal surgical resection. SISCOM analysis was performed using preoperative MRI studies, and then blindly reviewed for localization of hyperperfused regions. With the added information from postoperative, coregistered MRI, perfusion patterns were determined.

Key Findings

Using pair‐wise comparisons, we found that the optimal z score for SPECT‐SISCOM localization of the epileptogenic zone was 1.5, not the commonly used z score of 2. The z score of 1.5 was 84.8% sensitive and 93.8% specific. The z score of 1.5 had a moderate interrater agreement (0.70). When an hourglass configuration hyperperfusion pattern was present, a trend toward correctly localizing the seizure onset region was suggested (100% of the 11 observed occurrences). Nonetheless this trend was not statistically significant, possibly reflecting the small number of occurrences in our study.

Significance

SISCOM is a useful modality in evaluating patients for epilepsy surgery. This study shows that the z score of 1.5 represents a highly sensitive and specific SISCOM threshold that should be examined in conjunction with the traditionally used z score of 2 to enhance the chances of correct localization. Further prospective investigations are needed to confirm this finding in large patient series.
The Reverse Majority Voting under the ‘Six Pack’: A Bad Turn for the Union?
Authors: Palmstorfer Rainer
Published: April 2013

The ‘six‐pack,’ a set of six Union legislative acts that was adopted in November 2011, was one of the main Union responses to the current sovereign debt crisis. Aware of the weak performance of the Stability and Growth Pact and of the underlying design faults of the Treaty provisions on the coordination of Member States' economic policies, in particular the multilateral surveillance procedure (Art 121 TFEU) and the excessive deficit procedure (Article 126 TFEU), the legislators were determined to strengthen the means of surveillance in this policy field. One step considered necessary to achieve this end was the introduction of reverse majority voting in the Council when the latter has to adopt, for example, sanctions in above procedures. This article will examine whether this voting method is compatible with the Treaties.
Latitudinal shifts in coral reef fishes: why some species do and others do not shift
Authors: Feary David A , Pratchett Morgan S , J Emslie Micheal , Fowler Ashley M , Figueira Will F , Luiz Osmar J , Nakamura Yohei , Booth David J
Published: April 2013

Climate change is resulting in rapid poleward shifts in the geographical distribution of many tropical fish species, but it is equally apparent that some fishes are failing to exhibit expected shifts in their geographical distribution. There is still little understanding of the species‐specific traits that may constrain or promote successful establishment of populations in temperate regions. We review the factors likely to affect population establishment, including larval supply, settlement and post‐settlement processes. In addition, we conduct meta‐analyses on existing and new data to examine relationships between species‐specific traits and vagrancy. We show that tropical vagrant species are more likely to originate from high‐latitude populations, while at the demographic level, tropical fish species with large body size, high swimming ability, large size at settlement and pelagic spawning behaviour are more likely to show successful settlement into temperate habitats. We also show that both habitat and food limitation at settlement and within juvenile stages may constrain tropical vagrant communities to those species with medium to low reliance on coral resources.
Beaver dams maintain fish biodiversity by increasing habitat heterogeneity throughout a low‐gradient stream network
Authors: Smith Joseph M. , Mather Martha E.
Published: April 2013

Understanding the relationship between heterogeneity and biodiversity is an active focus of ecological research. Although habitat heterogeneity is conceptually linked to biodiversity, the amount and configuration of heterogeneity that maintains biodiversity within ecosystems is not well understood, especially for an entire stream network.

Here, we tested alternative outcomes about how habitat alterations caused by beaver dams affected native fish biodiversity. Specifically, we quantified in‐stream habitat and fish assemblages above and below all beaver dams (n = 15) and selected control sites (n = 9), adjacent to beaver dams, within an entire, low‐gradient stream network (Fish Brook, MA, U.S.A.).

Beaver dams altered habitat within streams in four ways based on upstream versus downstream differences in stream width, depth, velocity and substratum. In general, habitat heterogeneity, measured using two indices, was greater at beaver dams than control sites.

The diversity and abundance of fish around beaver dams were positively related to habitat heterogeneity. Faster water and the coarser substratum below beaver dams increased the amount of fluvial habitat available to native fish. This alteration can be critical for fish with life histories that depend on flowing water and hard substrata.

In summary, within a stream network, beaver dams maintained fish biodiversity by altering in‐stream habitat and increasing habitat heterogeneity. Understanding the relationship between habitat heterogeneity and biodiversity can advance basic freshwater ecology and provide science‐based support for applied aquatic conservation.
Combining monitoring, models and palaeolimnology to assess ecosystem response to environmental change at monthly to millennial timescales: the stability of Blue Lake, North Stradbroke Island, Australia
Authors: Barr Cameron , Tibby John , Marshall Jonathan C. , McGregor Glenn B. , Moss Patrick T. , Halverson Galen P. , Fluin Jennie
Published: April 2013

Human‐induced environmental change threatens freshwater ecosystems, and knowing how these systems have responded to past variability can inform management decisions. Palaeoenvironmental reconstructions provide insight, although their low temporal resolution may mask short‐term responses. Hence, a combination of short‐term, high‐resolution contemporary data and long‐term, low‐resolution palaeoenvironmental data can offer greater understanding of system behaviour.

We demonstrate this approach by examining the response of a lake on North Stradbroke Island, Australia, to environmental change, by investigating hydrological and water quality variation at different temporal scales. The data include daily lake discharge, monthly water quality, modelled annual lake discharge over a 117‐year period and comparisons of aerial photographs and lake bathymetry over the past 65 years. A palaeoenvironmental reconstruction of the last c. 7500 years used pollen, stable isotopes, macrofossils and diatoms to provide a long‐term perspective.

Despite variability in regional climate over recent decades, the depth and water chemistry of Blue Lake displayed little variation. At millennial timescales, there is clear evidence of catchment change in response to a marked shift in climate around 4500 years ago. However, diatom analysis indicates that Blue Lake has exhibited exceptional stability and resistance to change, compared to other Australian Holocene lake records. This suggests that Blue Lake has been an important climate refuge for aquatic biota in the past and, with appropriate management, should continue in this capacity into the future.

This study highlights the benefits of a combined, multi‐temporal approach to inform understanding of the structure and function of freshwater ecosystems and their responses to environmental change. Such scientific understanding of system requirements is critical to achieving sustainable management objectives.
Keeping management effects separate from environmental effects in terrestrial carbon accounting
Authors: Houghton Richard A.
Published: April 2013

This study proposes that carbon fluxes identified as being from land use and land‐cover change (LULCC) include only that component of a flux that can be attributed to LULCC, exclusive of the effects of environmental change (CO2, climate, N, etc.). This proposal seems too obvious to need saying, but published estimates of the LULCC flux are widely variable for reasons that have more to do with modeling environmental effects than with LULCC.
Longitudinal study of the cognitive, behavioral and physical status of day care service users with dementia: Factors associated with long‐term day care use
Authors: Ono Toshiyuki , Tamai Akira , Takeuchi Daisuke , Tamai Yuzuru , Hasegawa Yuka
Published: April 2013

Aim

The aim of the present retrospective study was to investigate the time‐courses of the cognitive, behavioral and physical status of day care service users with dementia, and to determine the factors associated with the long‐term use of day care in order to aid the development of better interventions.

Methods

We analyzed the data of 162 consecutive patients who attended our day care clinic for 1 year or more between 1 April 2000 and 31 March 2010. The patients were divided into three groups according to the length of their day care attendance (the 1‐year, 3‐year and 5‐year groups). Then, we investigated the time‐courses of their cognitive, behavioral and physical status. Logistic regression analysis was used to detect the factors that affect the duration of day care service attendance in dementia patients.

Results

The Hasegawa Dementia Scale‐Revised (HDS‐R), Assessment Scale for Symptoms of Dementia (ASSD) and Nishimura's Activities of Daily Living (N‐ADL) scores of the three groups all significantly deteriorated during the study period except for the HDS‐R score of the 3‐year group. Higher age and a high ASSD score were associated with a short period of day care service attendance, whereas the patients' daughters‐in‐law acting as a caregiver was related to the long‐term use of day care services in model 1.

Conclusions

It is better to control behavioral and psychological symptoms in order to improve the utilities of day care for dementia patients. The caregiving environment of dementia patients might be associated with the length of day care attendance. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14: 138–145.
Ivy: an underappreciated key resource to flower‐visiting insects in autumn
Authors: Garbuzov Mihail , Ratnieks Francis L. W.
Published: April 2013

Ivy (Hedera helix and H. hibernica) is a common autumn‐flowering plant found in Europe, North Africa, Macaronesia and Asia. Here, we use five complementary approaches (pollen trapping, nectar refractometry, local and regional surveys of insects foraging on ivy flowers, local survey of ivy abundance) to evaluate its importance to the honey bee (Apis mellifera) and other flower‐visiting insects in Sussex, England.

Pollen trapping at six hives in two locations showed that an average 89% of pollen pellets collected by honey bees in the autumn were from ivy.

Observations of foraging honey bees on ivy showed that ivy nectar is an even greater target than pollen, as 80% were collecting only nectar. Refractometry of samples from ivy flowers and from honey bees foraging on ivy showed that ivy nectar is rich in sugar, 49% w/w.

Surveys showed that the main insect taxa foraging on ivy were honey bees (21%), bumble bees (Bombus spp., 3%), ivy bees (Colletes hederae, 3%), common wasps (Vespula vulgaris, 13%), hover flies (Syrphidae, 27%), other flies (29%) and butterflies (4%). The surveys also showed significant temporal and spatial variation in taxon abundance and proportion.

A survey showed that ivy was very abundant on a small scale in both rural and urban areas, being present in 10/10 and 6/10 0.2 × 0.2 km samples within two 4 × 4 km areas respectively.

The results show that ivy should probably be considered a keystone species with a high value in the conservation of flower‐visiting insects in autumn.
Nanoscale Bioactive Glasses in Medical Applications
Authors: Erol‐Taygun Melek , Zheng Kai , Boccaccini Aldo R.
Published: April 2013

This review focuses on recent advances in the development and use of nanoscale silicate bioactive glasses for medical applications. In the context of materials for bone substitution, dental applications, and bone tissue engineering, nanoscale bioactive glasses have been gaining attention due to their expected superior osteoconductivity when compared with conventional (micrometer‐sized) bioactive glass materials. A detailed overview of recent developments in the field of nanoscale bioactive glasses will be given, including a summary of common fabrication methods and diverse application areas which include tissue engineering scaffolds and coatings, drug delivery devices, and dentistry. The nanofeatures characteristic of this type of bioactive glasses and the possibilities to expand their use in biomedical applications (nanomedicine) are highlighted.
Physicochemical and sensory properties of purple Brazilian cherry (Eugenia uniflora, L.) foams
Authors: Chaves Modesto A. , Barreto Isadora M. A. , Reis Ronielli C. , Kadam Dattatreya M.
Published: April 2013

The objective of this work was to characterise the foams of purple Brazilian cherry (Eugenia uniflora L.) pulp made with different additives, aiming at foam‐mat drying. Characterisation was made through analyses of moisture, pH, acidity, soluble solids, density, water activity, colour, total and reducing sugars, protein and ashes. Drying was done at 55 °C for 2 h. Dried Brazilian cherry juice powder was rehydrated for acceptance test. It is concluded that the physicochemical characterisation of fresh Brazilian cherry pulp was satisfactory and was in accordance with the Brazilian standards for agro‐industrial products. Albumin was the best foaming agent that produced a good‐quality powder in a short period. The foam‐mat drying of Brazilian cherry pulp using albumin and Superliga® (Duas Rodas Industrial ltda, Santa Catarina, Brazil) as foaming agents produced a powder with good physicochemical properties and sensory quality and most preferred juice.
Service(s) Marketing Research: Developments and Directions
Authors: Baron Steve , Warnaby Gary , Hunter‐Jones Philippa
Published: April 2013

This paper outlines the development of research in the domain of service(s) marketing from its birth as an area of academic study in the 1960s/1970s to the current time. It identifies four phases of development. Phases 1–3 relate to the period before 2004, which focuses on the development of service(s) marketing. In Phase 4, a greater focus on the concept of service (singular) – defined as the application of knowledge and skills – has resulted in developments and directions in service research that offer a different perspective through which to view more general marketing. This different perspective has explicit implications also for wider business and management research. The paper summarizes current research in this domain, which coalesces around three broad perspectives, namely, the service‐dominant logic of marketing, technology and service, and transformative service research. It concludes by outlining likely trends for service research into the future. Three interrelated directions are suggested: research on service in a changing context; research responding to academic schools of thought; and research responding to consumer trends.
Do stream fish track climate change? Assessing distribution shifts in recent decades
Authors: Comte Lise , Grenouillet Gaël
Published: April 2013

Understanding the ability of species to shift their distribution ranges in response to climate change is crucial for conservation biologists and resources managers. Although freshwater ecosystems include some of the most imperilled fauna worldwide, such range shifts have been poorly documented in streams and rivers and have never been compared to the current velocity of climate change. Based on national monitoring data, we examined the distributional changes of 32 stream fish species in France and quantified potential time lags in species responses, providing a unique opportunity to analyze range shifts over recent decades of warming in freshwater environments. A multi‐facetted approach, based on several range measures along spatial gradients, allowed us to quantify range shifts of numerous species across the whole hydrographic network between an initial period (1980–1992) and a contemporary one (2003–2009), and to contrast them to the rates of isotherm shift in elevation and stream distance. Our results highlight systematic species shifts towards higher elevation and upstream, with mean shifts in range centre of 13.7 m decade−1 and 0.6 km decade−1, respectively. Fish species displayed dispersal‐driven expansions along the altitudinal gradient at their upper range limit (61.5 m decade−1), while substantial range contractions at the lower limit (6.3 km decade−1) were documented for most species along the upstream–downstream gradient. Despite being consistent with the geographic variation in climate change velocities, these patterns reveal that the majority of stream fish have not shifted at a pace sufficient to track changing climate, in particular at their range centre where range shifts lag far behind expectation. Our study provides evidence that stream fish are currently responding to recent climate warming at a greater rate than many terrestrial organisms, although not as much as needed to cope with future climate modifications.
Synthesis and Sintering Behavior of Ultrafine (<10 nm) Magnesium Aluminate Spinel Nanoparticles
Authors: Rufner Jorgen , Anderson David , van Benthem Klaus , Castro Ricardo H. R.
Published: April 2013

This article reports a comparative characterization of ultrafine MgAl2O4 spinel nanoparticles synthesized by polymeric precursor (Pechini) and coprecipitation methods. The nanoparticles were evaluated in terms of purity and surface cleanliness, size distribution, state of agglomeration, and sintering behavior. Powders synthesized by the Pechini technique were highly agglomerated and revealed a bimodal particle size distribution centered around 12 and 27 nm. Thermal analysis and infrared spectroscopy measurements indicated that carbon species remained on the surface of the powders only to be released when temperatures exceeded 1000°C. Isothermal sintering of such nanopowders at 1300°C showed a maximum relative density of only 54%. MgAl2O4 synthesized via coprecipitation created small nanoparticles, around 5–6 nm after calcination at 800°C, with significantly less agglomeration. Compared with the precursor‐derived powders, excellent sinterability of the coprecipitated powders was obtained under the same sintering conditions. Relative densities above 90% were obtained after only 10 min, which further increased to greater than 95% after 20 min with no sintering aids or dopants. The results highlight the importance of purity and processing control to exploit the beneficial high sinterability of nanoparticles.
Solvothermal Synthesis of In2−xCoxO3 (0.05 ≤ x ≤ 0.15) Dilute Magnetic Semiconductors: Optical, Magnetic, and Dielectric Properties
Authors: Khatoon Sarvari , Coolahan Kelsey , Lofland Samuel E. , Ahmad Tokeer
Published: April 2013

Highly crystalline and monophasic nanoparticles of In2−xCoxO3 (0.05 ≤ x ≤ 0.15) were successfully synthesized by the solvothermal method through an oxalate precursor route. Collective evidence from X‐ray diffraction and reflectance measurements suggest that the Co2+ is incorporated into the In2O3 lattice site. Effect of cobalt dopant on the growth and morphology of indium oxide was studied by transmission electron microscopy. It has been observed that particle size decreases from 23 to 9 nm on increasing the Co concentration. High surface area has been obtained, with values ranging between 66 and 151 m2/g, respectively. Values for the dielectric constant were around 40. All these solid solutions show paramagnetic behavior with weak antiferromagnetic interactions.
Diabetes mellitus and risk of dementia: A meta‐analysis of prospective observational studies
Authors: Gudala Kapil , Bansal Dipika , Schifano Fabrizio , Bhansali Anil
Published: April 2013

Aims/Introduction

The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between diabetes and the risk of all type dementia (ATD), Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD).

Materials and Methods

Prospective observational studies describing the incidence of ATD, AD and VaD in patients with diabetes mellitus were extracted from PubMed, EMBASE and other databases up to January 2012. Pooled relative risk (RR) estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using the random‐effects model. Subgroup analyses and sensitivity analysis were also carried out.

Results

A total of 28 studies contributed to the analysis. Pooled RR of developing ATD (n = 20) was 1.73 (1.65–1.82, I2 = 71.2%), AD (n = 20) was 1.56 (1.41–1.73, I2 = 9.8%) and VaD (n = 13) was 2.27 (1.94–2.66, I2 = 0%) in patients with diabetes mellitus. Higher and medium quality studies did not show any significant difference for pooled RR for ATD, AD or VaD. Sensitivity analyses showed robustness of pooled RR among ATD, AD and VaD, showing no single study had a major impact on pooled RR.

Conclusions

The results showed a 73% increased risk of ATD, 56% increase of AD and 127% increase of VaD in diabetes patients.
Bee visit rates vary with floral morphology among highbush blueberry cultivars (Vaccinium corymbosum L.)
Authors: Courcelles D. M. M. , Button L. , Elle E.
Published: April 2013

As the human population has increased, so too has the demand for biotically pollinated crops. Bees (Apoidea) are essential for pollen transfer and fruit production in many crops, and their visit patterns can be influenced by floral morphology. Here, we considered the role of floral morphology on visit rates and behaviour of managed honey bees (Apis mellifera) and wild bumble bees (genus Bombus), for four highbush blueberry cultivars (Vaccinium corymbosum L.). We measured five floral traits for each cultivar, finding significant variation among cultivars. Corolla throat diameter may be the main morphological determinant of visit rates of honey bees, which is significantly higher on the wider flowers of cv. ‘Duke’ than on ‘Bluecrop’ or ‘Draper’. Honey bees also visited cv. ‘Duke’ legitimately but were frequent nectar robbers on the long, narrow flowers of cv. ‘Bluecrop’. Bumble bees were infrequent (and absent on cv. ‘Draper’) but all observed visits were legitimate. Crop yield was highest for the cultivar with the highest combined (honey bee + bumble bee) visit rate, suggesting that aspects of floral morphology that affect pollinator visit patterns should be considered in crop breeding initiatives.
Clinicopathological significance of S100 protein expression in cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Sato Yasunori , Harada Kenichi , Sasaki Motoko , Nakanuma Yasuni
Published: April 2013

Background and Aim

Cholangiocarcinoma arising in the large bile ducts undergoes a multistep carcinogenesis process in chronic biliary diseases, and biliary intraepithelial neoplasia is known as a precursor lesion. This study examined the expression of S100 proteins in the multistep cholangiocarcinogenesis to clarify their clinicopathological significance.

Methods

Immunohistochemical analysis was performed for the expression of S100A2, S100A4, S100A6, and S100P. Bile concentrations of S100P were measured using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

The immunohistochemical expression of the S100 proteins was increased in biliary intraepithelial neoplasia as well as invasive adenocarcinoma of perihilar cholangiocarcinoma. Among the proteins, S100P expression was most drastically increased during the multistep carcinogenesis process. In cases with perihilar and extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, the immunohistochemical expression of S100A2 in cholangiocarcinoma cells significantly correlated with the histological grade, lymph node metastasis, clinical stage, and a poor survival rate of the patients. The bile levels of S100P were increased significantly in patients with cholangiocarcinoma compared with those in patients with lithiasis. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that S100P bile concentration was an indicator of cholangiocarcinoma with a sensitivity of 93% and a specificity of 70%.

Conclusions

These results suggest that S100P may be useful for the detection of cholangiocarcinoma as tissue and bile biomarkers, and the immunohistochemical expression of S100A2 is a potential prognostic marker in cholangiocarcinoma patients.
OsRRMh, a Spen‐Like Gene, Plays an Important Role During the Vegetative to Reproductive Transition in Rice
Authors: Liu Derui , Cai Xiuling
Published: April 2013

OsRRMh, a homologue of OsRRM, encodes a Spen‐like protein, and is composed of two N‐terminal RNA recognition motifs (RRM) and one C‐terminal Spen paralogue and an orthologue C‐terminal domain (SPOC). The gene has been found to be constitutively expressed in the root, stem, leaf, spikelet, and immature seed, and alternative splicing patterns were confirmed in different tissues, which may indicate diverse functions for OsRRMh. The OsRRMh dsRNAi lines exhibited late‐flowering and a larger panicle phenotype. When full‐length OsRRMh and/or its SPOC domain were overexpressed, the fertility rate and number of spikelets per panicle were both markedly reduced. Also, overexpression of OsRRMh in the Arabidopsis fpa mutant did not restore the normal flowering time, and it delayed flowering in Col plants. Therefore, we propose that OsRRMh may confer one of its functions in the vegetative‐to‐reproductive transition in rice (Oryza sativa L. subsp. japonica cv. Zhonghua No. 11 (ZH11)).
Temperature acclimation and heat tolerance of photosynthesis in Norwegian Saccharina latissima (Laminariales, Phaeophyceae)
Authors: Andersen Guri Sogn , Pedersen Morten Foldager , Nielsen Søren Laurentius
Published: April 2013

Kelps, seaweeds and seagrasses provide important ecosystem services in coastal areas, and loss of these macrophytes is a global concern. Recent surveys have documented severe declines in populations of the dominant kelp species, Saccharina latissima, along the south coast of Norway. S. latissima is a cold‐temperate species, and increasing seawater temperature has been suggested as one of the major causes of the decline. Several studies have shown that S. latissima can acclimate to a wide range of temperatures. However, local adaptations may render the extrapolation of existing results inappropriate. We investigated the potential for thermal acclimation and heat tolerance in S. latissima collected from three locations along the south coast of Norway. Plants were kept in laboratory cultures at three different growth temperatures (10, 15, and 20°C) for 4–6 weeks, after which their photosynthetic performance, fluorescence parameters, and pigment concentrations were measured. S. latissima obtained almost identical photosynthetic characteristics when grown at 10 and 15°C, indicating thermal acclimation at these temperatures. In contrast, plants grown at 20°C suffered substantial tissue deterioration, and showed reduced net photosynthetic capacity caused by a combination of elevated respiration and reduced gross photosynthesis due to lowered pigment concentrations, altered pigment composition, and reduced functionality of Photo‐system II. Our results support the hypothesis that extraordinarily high temperatures, as observed in 1997, 2002, and 2006, may have initiated the declines in S. latissima populations along the south coast of Norway. However, observations of high mortality in years with low summer temperatures suggest that reduced population resilience or other factors may have contributed to the losses.
Correlation of bronchoalveolar eosinophilic percentage with airway responsiveness in cats with chronic bronchial disease
Authors: Allerton F. J. W. , Leemans J. , Tual C. , Bernaerts F. , Kirschvink N. , Clercx C.
Published: April 2013

Objectives

To retrospectively assess the relationship between bronchoalveolar lavage fluid analysis and lung function parameters as assessed by means of barometric whole body plethysmography and airway responsiveness testing in cats with chronic bronchial disease and to evaluate the potential application of barometric whole body plethysmography and airway responsiveness testing to distinguish between eosinophilic and non‐eosinophilic bronchitis.

Methods

Twelve cats presented for chronic bronchial disease with complete bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and barometric whole body plethysmography data were identified. Cats were retrospectively assigned to eosinophilic bronchitis or non‐eosinophilic bronchitis groups on the basis of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid eosinophil percentage (threshold 17%). Airway responsiveness was quantified by calculating the concentration of carbachol‐inducing bronchoconstriction (C‐Penh‐300), defined as a 300% increase of basal enhanced pause (Penh).

Results

Log Penh was significantly higher and C‐Penh‐300 significantly lower in eosinophilic bronchitis cats compared to non‐eosinophilic bronchitis cats (P=0·031 and P=0·032, respectively). Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid eosinophil percentage was moderately correlated with log Penh (P=0·012, r=0·70) and showed a weak inverse correlation with C‐Penh‐300 (P=0·047, r=−0·58).

Clinical Significance

This study provides supportive evidence of a correlation between airway eosinophilic inflammation and plethysmographic measures of bronchoconstriction and airway responsiveness. Further investigation of the use of barometric whole body plethysmography to differentiate between forms of chronic bronchial disease in cats is indicated.
Avascular necrosis of the canine radial carpal bone: a condition analogousto Preiser's disease?
Authors: Aiken M. J. , Stewart J. E. , Anderson A. A.
Published: April 2013

An eight‐year‐old male neutered Staffordshire bull terrier was presented for investigation of right forelimb lameness of 14 months’ duration. Radiography showed mottled osteolysis of the right radial carpal bone. Histopathology of the bone demonstrated replacement of healthy bone with granulation tissue suggestive of ischaemic necrosis. Lameness resolved following pancarpal arthrodesis. In humans, Preiser's disease is a condition in which idiopathic ischaemic necrosis of the scaphoid bone, the equivalent of the canine radial carpal bone, occurs. This disease may be analogous to the presentation seen in this case. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of such a condition in a dog.
Hepatitis C virus treatment and survival in patients with hepatitis C and human immunodeficiency virus co‐infection and baseline anaemia
Authors: Erqou S. , Mohanty A. , McGinnis K. A. , Vanasse G. , Freiberg M. S. , Sherman K. E. , Butt A. A.
Published: April 2013

The impact of pretreatment anaemia on survival in individuals with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) co‐infection is not known. Moreover, HCV treatment is offered less frequently to individuals with anaemia, due to haematological side effects of the treatment regimen. This study aimed to determine the effect of HCV treatment on survival among HCV/HIV co‐infected individuals with pretreatment anaemia using the Electronically Retrieved Cohort of HCV‐Infected Veterans (ERCHIVES). Individuals with HCV/HIV co‐infection were included in current analyses. Participants were considered treated if they were prescribed ≥4 weeks of HCV treatment. All‐cause mortality data were obtained using record linkage. Survival analyses were performed using Cox proportional hazard models. Among 5000 HCV/HIV co‐infected individuals, 1671 (33.4%) had pretreatment anaemia. In a follow‐up period of up to 7 years (19 500 person‐years), individuals with anaemia had significantly higher mortality rate compared with those without anaemia [144.2 (95% CI: 134.5–154.7) vs 47.5 (44.0–51.2) per 1000 person‐years, respectively]. Among individuals with anaemia, HCV treatment was associated with significantly lower mortality rate [66.6 (44.3–100.2) vs 149.6 (139.2–160.5) per 1000 person‐years, for treated vs untreated, respectively]. Treatment remained associated with substantial survival benefit after taking into account the effect of multiple comorbidities (hazards ratio: 0.34, 95% CI: 0.21–0.62). These data suggest that HCV/HIV co‐infected individuals with pretreatment anaemia have significantly higher mortality compared with those without anaemia. HCV treatment is associated with substantial survival benefit in this group. Additional studies are needed to determine strategies to improve HCV treatment rates among this group.
Fungal siderophore biosynthesis is partially localized in peroxisomes
Authors: Gründlinger Mario , Yasmin Sabiha , Lechner Beatrix Elisabeth , Geley Stephan , Schrettl Markus , Hynes Michael , Haas Hubertus
Published: April 2013

Siderophores play a central role in iron metabolism and virulence of most fungi. Both Aspergillus fumigatus and Aspergillus nidulans excrete the siderophore triacetylfusarinine C (TAFC) for iron acquisition. In A. fumigatus, green fluorescence protein‐tagging revealed peroxisomal localization of the TAFC biosynthetic enzymes SidI (mevalonyl‐CoA ligase), SidH (mevalonyl‐CoA hydratase) and SidF (anhydromevalonyl‐CoA transferase), while elimination of the peroxisomal targeting signal (PTS) impaired both, peroxisomal SidH‐targeting and TAFC biosynthesis. The analysis of A. nidulans mutants deficient in peroxisomal biogenesis, ATP import or protein import revealed that cytosolic mislocalization of one or two but, interestingly, not all three enzymes impairs TAFC production during iron starvation. The PTS motifs are conserved in fungal orthologues of SidF, SidH and SidI. In agreement with the evolutionary conservation of the partial peroxisomal compartmentalization of fungal siderophore biosynthesis, the SidI orthologue of coprogen‐type siderophore‐producing Neurospora crassa was confirmed to be peroxisomal. Taken together, this study identified and characterized a novel, evolutionary conserved metabolic function of peroxisomes.