bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clampless laparoendoscopic single‐site partial nephrectomy for renal cancer with low PADUA score: technique and surgical outcomes
Authors: Springer Christopher , Veneziano Domenico , Wimpissinger Florian , Inferrera Antonino , Fornara Paolo , Greco Francesco
Published: January 2013

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Laparoendoscopic single‐site (LESS) surgery has proved to be immediately applicable in the clinical field, being safe and feasible in the hands of experienced laparoscopic surgeons in well‐selected patients. All extirpative and reconstructive urological procedures have been described in the literature, but LESS partial nephrectomy (PN) is one of the most complex procedures and few studies have been published on this subject.

The study describes a clampless technique for LESS PN, by reducing the blood pressure and increasing the intra‐abdominal pressure of the pneumoperitoneum to 20 mmHg, timed to precisely coincide with excision of the tumour. This technique was found to be safe and feasible in the treatment of low‐risk T1a RCC.

Objective

To describe the technique and report the surgical outcomes of clampless laparoendoscopic single‐site (LESS) partial nephrectomy (PN) in the treatment of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with low PADUA score.

Patients and Methods

Clampless LESS PN was performed in 14 patients with cT1a renal tumours. Indications to perform a clampless LESS PN were low‐risk, laterally based renal tumours, located away from the renal hilum, with a PADUA score ≤7.

Demographic data and peri‐operative and postoperative variables were recorded and analysed.

Kidney function was evaluated by measuring serum creatinine concentration and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) pre‐ and postoperatively and at 6‐month follow‐up.

Results

The median operating time was 120 min and warm ischaemia time was zero in all cases. Only one early complication (Clavien grade 1) was recorded: one patient developed a flank haematoma which it was possible to treat by conservative therapy.

Serum creatinine and modification of diet renal disease eGFR were not found to be significantly different pre‐ and postoperatively and at 6‐month follow‐up.

Definitive pathological results showed 12 pT1a RCCs and two pT1a‐chromophobe RCCs. All tumours were removed with negative surgical margins.

All patients were satisfied with the cosmetic results.

At a median (range) follow‐up period of 12 (8–15) months, all patients were alive without evidence of tumour recurrence or port‐site metastasis.

Conclusion

Clampless LESS PN is a safe and feasible surgical procedure in the treatment of low‐risk T1a RCC, with excellent cosmetic results.
Haematuria after prostate brachytherapy
Authors: Leapman Michael S. , Hall Simon J. , Stone Nelson N. , Stock Richard G.
Published: January 2013

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Previous descriptions of haematuria after brachytherapy are limited.

This study characterizes the long‐term incidence and associated clinical risk factors of haematuria after prostate brachytherapy.

Objective

To characterize the incidence and clinical history of gross haematuria after prostate brachytherapy.

To identify treatment risk factors for the development of gross haematuria in this setting.

Patients and Methods

We reviewed haematuria outcomes collected prospectively in 2454 patients treated with transperineal prostate brachytherapy over a 20‐year period at a single institution.

Patients were followed for a median of 5.9 years.

The association of haematuria with age, pretreatment PSA, ethnicity, clinical tumour stage, Gleason score, prostate volume, isotope (iodine 125 or palladium 103), biologically effective dose (BED), external beam radiation, androgen deprivation, development of urinary retention and occurrence of biochemical failure was investigated.

Results

A total of 218 men (8.9%) reported gross haematuria at a median time of 772.2 days after implantation.

Haematuria was associated with prostate volume >40 cm3 (P < 0.01), use of external beam radiation (P < 0.01), Gleason score >7 (P = 0.037), Asian ethnicity (P < 0.001), BED >200 Gy (P = 0.01), and freedom from biochemical failure (P = 0.004).

On multivariate analysis, prostate volume >40 cm3 (P = 0.002), external beam radiation, (P = 0.001), and freedom from biochemical failure (P = 0.035) were predictors of haematuria.

Conclusions

Late gross haematuria was observed in a small proportion of men after brachytherapy and may occur with considerable latency.

Larger prostate glands, freedom from biochemical failure and external beam radiation are risk factors.
Cell Exclusion in Couette Flow: Evaluation Through Flow Visualization and Mechanical Forces
Authors: Leslie Laura J. , Marshall Lindsay J. , Devitt Andrew , Hilton Andrew , Tansley Geoff D.
Published: January 2013

Cell exclusion is the phenomenon whereby the hematocrit and viscosity of blood decrease in areas of high stress. While this is well known in naturally occurring Poiseuille flow in the human body, it has never previously been shown in Couette flow, which occurs in implantable devices including blood pumps. The high‐shear stresses that occur in the gap between the boundaries in Couette flow are known to cause hemolysis in erythrocytes. We propose to mitigate this damage by initiating cell exclusion through the use of a spiral‐groove bearing (SGB) that will provide escape routes by which the cells may separate themselves from the plasma and the high stresses in the gap. The force between two bearings (one being the SGB) in Couette flow was measured. Stained erythrocytes, along with silver spheres of similar diameter to erythrocytes, were visualized across a transparent SGB at various gap heights. A reduction in the force across the bearing for human blood, compared with fluids of comparable viscosity, was found. This indicates a reduction in the viscosity of the fluid across the bearing due to a lowered hematocrit because of cell exclusion. The corresponding images clearly show both cells and spheres being excluded from the gap by entering the grooves. This is the first time the phenomenon of cell exclusion has been shown in Couette flow. It not only furthers our understanding of how blood responds to different flows but could also lead to improvements in the future design of medical devices.
Elephant response to spatial heterogeneity in a savanna landscape of northern Tanzania
Authors: Pittiglio Claudia , Skidmore Andrew K. , van Gils Hein A. M. J. , Prins Herbert H. T.
Published: January 2013

Landscape heterogeneity, namely the variation of a landscape property across space and time, can influence the distribution of a species and its abundance. Quantifying landscape heterogeneity is important for the management of semi‐natural areas through predicting species response to landscape changes, such as habitat fragmentation. In this paper, we tested whether the change in spatial heterogeneity of the vegetation cover due to farming expansion affected the distribution of the African elephant in the Tarangire‐Manyara ecosystem, northern Tanzania. Spatial heterogeneity (based on the normalized difference vegetation index) was characterized at multiple spatial scales using the wavelet transform and the intensity‐dominant scale method. Elephant distribution was estimated from time‐series aerial surveys using a kernel density function. The intensity, which relates to the contrast in vegetation cover, quantified the maximum variation in NDVI across multiple spatial scales, whereas the dominant scale, which represents the scale at which this maximum variation occurs, identified the dominant inter‐patches distance, i.e. the size of dominant landscape features. We related the dominant scale of spatial heterogeneity to the probability of elephant occurrence in order to identify: 1) the scale that maximizes elephant occurrence, and 2) its change between 1988 and 2001. Neither the dominant scale and intensity of spatial heterogeneity, nor the probability of the elephant occurrence changed significantly between 1988 and 2001. The spatial scale maximizing elephant occurrence remained constant at 7000 to 8000 m during each wet season. Compared to the findings of a recent, similar study in Zimbabwe, our results suggest that the change in the dominant scale was relatively small in Tarangire‐Manyara ecosystem and well within the critical threshold for elephant persistence. The method is a useful tool for monitoring ecosystems and their properties.
Geomorphological disturbance is necessary for predicting fine‐scale species distributions
Authors: le Roux Peter C. , Virtanen Risto , Luoto Miska
Published: January 2013

Disturbances related to geomorphological processes are frequent, widespread and often intense at high latitudes and altitudes, affecting the fine‐scale distribution of many plant species. While the inclusion of physical disturbances into models of species geographic ranges is widely recommended, no studies have yet tested the utility of field‐quantified geomorphological disturbances for terrestrial species distribution modelling. Here we apply generalized additive models and boosted regression trees to examine if the explicit inclusion of terrestrial and fluvial geomorphological variables alters species distribution models for 154 vascular plant, bryophyte and lichen species in north European mountain tundra. The inclusion of these disturbances significantly improved both the explanatory and predictive power of distribution models, with consistent results for all three species groups. Spatial distribution predictions changed considerably for some species after the inclusion of disturbance variables, with fluvial disturbances generating strongly linear features for species influenced by erosion or sediment deposition. As a consequence, models incorporating geomorphological variables produced markedly more refined distribution maps than simpler models. Predictions of species distributions will thus benefit strongly from the inclusion of fine‐scale geomorphological variables, particularly in areas of active earth surface processes, enabling more accurate forecasting of future species ranges under changing conditions.
Effect of cryopreserved amniotic membrane on the development of adhesions and fibrosis after extraocular muscle surgery in rabbits
Authors: Kassem Rehab R. , Khodeir Mostafa M. , Salem Mostafa , Abdel‐Hamid Mohammed A. , El‐Mofty Randa M. Abdel‐Moneim , Kamal Ahmed M. , Elhilali Hala M.
Published: January 2013

Purpose:  To histopathologically evaluate the effect of cryopreserved human amniotic membrane (AM) transplant on preventing the development of postoperative adhesions after extraocular muscle surgery.

Methods:  Ten albino rabbits were used. The superior rectus muscles were bilaterally resected. In right eyes, the muscle was wrapped with cryopreserved human AM (group AM). In left eyes, the muscle was not wrapped with AM and served as a control group (group C). The rabbits were killed, and the eyes were enucleated 6 weeks after surgery to perform histopathological examination.

Results:  On histopathological examination, the AM was present in eight eyes, surrounded by periamniotic inflammation, with no adhesions detected between rectus muscle and sclera, conjunctiva and Tenon’s capsule in the segment where the AM was present, but detected elsewhere. Adhesions were detected in the other two eyes of group AM, in which the AM was absent, and in all group C eyes. When comparing eye pairs of each rabbit, AM eyes showed significantly less adhesions between the muscle and sclera (p = 0.009) and between the muscle and Tenon’s capsule and conjunctiva (p = 0.008), in the region of AM application, and significantly more foreign body inflammation (p = 0.031), than C eyes. The differences between AM and C eye pairs, in terms of conjunctival inflammation and vascularity and muscle fibrosis, were insignificant (p > 0.05).

Conclusions:  Cryopreserved AM is effective in reducing postoperative extraocular muscle adhesions. Its application is, therefore, recommended during strabismus reoperations.
Optic nerve head morphology in young patients after antiglaucomatous filtering surgery
Authors: Panda‐Jonas Songhomitra , Xu Liang , Yang Hua , Wang Ya X. , Jonas Shefali B. , Jonas Jost B.
Published: January 2013

Purpose:  To compare the optic nerve head appearance in glaucomatous eyes before and after marked reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP).

Methods:  The hospital‐based observational case‐series study included selected glaucoma patients for whom optic disc photographs taken before and 1 week to 5 months after surgical reduction of IOP were morphometrically examined.

Results:  The study included 23 eyes of 16 patients (mean age: 28.7 ± 6.0 years). Mean preoperative IOP was 31.6 ± 7.7 mmHg (22–52 mmHg), and mean IOP drop was 21.5 ± 8.4 mmHg (11–45 mmHg). The horizontal disc diameter decreased significantly (p < 0.001) after surgery, while the vertical disc diameter did not change markedly (p = 0.54). The width of the neuroretinal rim increased significantly in all disc quadrants (all p‐values ≤ 0.01), optic cup depth decreased (p < 0.001), and reflectivity of the inner retinal surface increased significantly (p < 0.001). Some eyes showed a pronounced reduction in beta zone of parapapillary atrophy parallel to an increase in horizontal disc diameter, and some eyes showed an enlargement of beta zone parallel to a reduction in horizontal disc diameter.

Conclusions:  After marked reduction of high IOP, some eyes of young adult patients with glaucoma can show a horizontal shrinkage of the optic nerve head, in addition to a partial restoration of the neuroretinal rim and a flattening of the optic cup. In addition, beta zone of parapapillary atrophy can decrease or increase, complementarily to changes in the horizontal disc diameter. These findings may be of interest for the biomechanics of the optic nerve head and the precision of imaging techniques.
Effect of Precursor on Speciation and Nanostructure of SiBCN Polymer‐Derived Ceramics
Authors: Widgeon Scarlett , Mera Gabriela , Gao Yan , Sen Sabyasachi , Navrotsky Alexandra , Riedel Ralf
Published: January 2013

A comparative structural study of silicon borocarbonitride polymer‐derived ceramics synthesized using polyborosilylcarbodiimide and polyborosilazane precursors is carried out using high‐resolution, multinuclear, one‐ and two‐ dimensional NMR spectroscopy. The polyborosilylcarbodiimide‐derived ceramics contain relatively pure Si3N4 and C nanodomains with the BN domains being present predominantly at the interface such that the bonding at the interface consists of Si–N–B, Si–N–C, and B–N–C linkages. In contrast, the structure of the polyborosilazane‐derived ceramics consists of significant amount of mixed bonding in the nearest‐neighbor coordination environments of Si and B atoms leading to the formation of SiCxN4−x (0 ≤ x ≤ 4) tetrahedral units and BCN2 triangular units. The interfacial region between the SiCN and C nanodomains is occupied by the BCN phase. These results demonstrate that the chemistry of the polymeric precursors exerts major influence on the microstructure and bonding in their derived ceramics even when the final chemical compositions of the latter are similar.
Parent‐ and self‐reported dimensions of oppositionality in youth: construct validity, concurrent validity, and the prediction of criminal outcomes in adulthood
Authors: Aebi Marcel , Plattner Belinda , Metzke Christa Winkler , Bessler Cornelia , Steinhausen Hans‐Christoph
Published: January 2013

Background:  Different dimensions of oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) have been found as valid predictors of further mental health problems and antisocial behaviors in youth. The present study aimed at testing the construct, concurrent, and predictive validity of ODD dimensions derived from parent‐ and self‐report measures.

Method:  Confirmatory factor analyses were performed to test a three‐dimensional model (ODD‐irritability, ODD‐headstrong, and ODD‐hurtful) and a two‐dimensional model (ODD‐irritability, ODD‐headstrong/hurtful) based on items of the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and the Youth Self Report (YSR) collected in a Swiss community study of 1,031 adolescents (519 boys, 512 girls) aged between 10.7 and 17.9 (M = 13.85, SD = 1.63) years. Logistic regression analyses were applied to predict scores in the clinical range of concurrent CBCL/YSR‐anxiety/depression, CBCL/YSR‐attention problems, and CBCL/YSR‐delinquent behavior and depression as measured by the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES‐D) as well as to predict the presence of adult criminal convictions.

Results:  CFA findings were in favor of a three‐dimensional model rather than a two‐dimensional model of ODD. The CBCL/YSR‐ODD‐irritability scale was related to concurrent self‐reported depression, but also to attention problems and delinquent behavior. CBCL/YSR‐ODD‐hurtful and less strongly also the combined YSR‐headstrong/hurtful scale predicted adult criminal outcomes.

Conclusions:  As proposed by the DSM‐5 workgroup, different ODD‐dimensions were confirmed by the present study. ODD‐irritability predicts psychiatric comorbidity and ODD‐hurtful symptoms should be specifically considered in youth at risk for criminal outcomes.
Behavioural salinity preferences of juvenile green sturgeon Acipenser medirostris acclimated to fresh water and full‐strength salt water
Authors: Poletto J. B. , Cocherell D. E. , Klimley A. P. , Cech J. J. , Fangue N. A.
Published: January 2013

To quantify the salinity preference of juvenile green sturgeon Acipenser medirostris, two groups of A. medirostris [140 days post hatch (dph); total length (LT) 38·0–52·5 cm] were acclimated to either near fresh water (mean ± s.e. salinity = 3·2 ± 0·6) or full‐strength salt water (34·1 ± 1·2) over 8 weeks. Following acclimation, the two groups were divided into experimental and control groups, where experimental A. medirostris from both freshwater and saltwater acclimations were individually introduced (200–220 dph) into a rectangular salinity‐preference flume (maximum salinity gradient: 5–33). Control A. medirostris were presented with only their acclimation water (fresh water or salt water) on both sides of the flume. It was demonstrated that A. medirostris acclimated to both salt water and fresh water spent a significantly greater amount of time on the side of the testing area with the highest salinity concentration (P < 0·05 and P < 0·001, respectively) while control A. medirostris spent an equal amount of time on each side of the flume. These findings indicate that juvenile A. medirostris are not only capable of detecting salt water within the first year of their lives but perhaps are actively seeking out saline environments as they move through a watershed. Establishing A. medirostris salinity preferences provides a better understanding of the early life history of this threatened species, shedding light on possible outmigration timing.
Children's thoughts on the social exclusion of peers with intellectual or learning disabilities
Authors: Nowicki E. A. , Brown J. , Stepien M.
Published: January 2013

Background

Previous research has shown that children with intellectual or learning disabilities are at risk for social exclusion by their peers but little is known of children's views on this topic. In this study, we used concept mapping to investigate elementary school children's thoughts on why they believe their peers with intellectual or learning disabilities are sometimes socially excluded at school.

Method

Participants were 49 grade five and six children who attended inclusive classrooms. Interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed. We extracted 49 unique statements from the transcribed data, and then invited participants to sort the statements into meaningful categories.

Results

Sorted data were entered into matrices, which were summed and analysed with multi‐dimensional scaling and cluster analysis. A four‐cluster solution provided the best conceptual fit for the data. Clusters reflected themes on (1) the thoughts and actions of other children; (2) differences in learning ability and resource allocation; (3) affect, physical characteristics and schooling; and (4) negative thoughts and behaviours.

Conclusions

The overarching reason for social exclusion focused on differences between children with and without disabilities. This study also provided evidence that children are effective, reliable and competent participants in concept mapping. Educational and research implications are discussed.
Formaldehyde metabolism and formaldehyde‐induced stimulation of lactate production and glutathione export in cultured neurons
Authors: Tulpule Ketki , Hohnholt Michaela C. , Dringen Ralf
Published: January 2013

Formaldehyde is endogenously produced in the human body and brain levels of this compound are elevated in neurodegenerative conditions. Although the toxic potential of an excess of formaldehyde has been studied, little is known on the molecular mechanisms underlying its neurotoxicity as well as on the ability of neurons to metabolize formaldehyde. To address these topics, we have used cerebellar granule neuron cultures as model system. These cultures express mRNAs of various enzymes that are involved in formaldehyde metabolism and were remarkably resistant toward acute formaldehyde toxicity. Cerebellar granule neurons metabolized formaldehyde with a rate of around 200 nmol/(h × mg) which was accompanied by significant increases in the cellular and extracellular concentrations of formate. In addition, formaldehyde application significantly increased glucose consumption, almost doubled the rate of lactate release from viable neurons and strongly accelerated the export of the antioxidant glutathione. The latter process was completely prevented by inhibition of the known glutathione exporter multidrug resistance protein 1. These data indicate that cerebellar granule neurons are capable of metabolizing formaldehyde and that the neuronal glycolysis and glutathione export are severely affected by the presence of formaldehyde.
Five‐year multicenter study of magnetic attachments used for natural overdenture abutments
Authors: Gonda T. , Yang T. C. , Maeda Y.
Published: January 2013

The purpose of this study was to examine a longitudinal clinical performance of magnetic attachments used for natural overdenture abutments. The study included 131 patients who had used removable prostheses (complete overdentures 31%, partial dentures 69%) more than 5 years (40–90 years old) with 211 magnetic attachments on natural abutments (Magfit 400 or 600; Aichi Steel co., Aichi, Japan) treated in 15 clinics using a standardized protocol. Analyses were performed on the degree of patient satisfaction regarding retention, complications of magnets (corrosion, detachment from denture base), abutments (pain during mastication, periodontal pocket formation, inflammation, mobility), and dentures (fracture etc.). Ninety‐seven percent of patients were satisfied with the retention and stability of their dentures. No corrosion of magnet was observed, and 19 magnets were detached. Most frequent complication of abutments was periodontal pocket formation (52%), followed by the inflammation (29%), increase in mobility (27%) and pain (4%). Magnetic attachment on natural tooth abutments provided a viable and long‐term treatment option.
Melatonin and its potential biological functions in the fruits of sweet cherry
Authors: Zhao Yu , Tan Dun‐Xian , Lei Qiong , Chen Hao , Wang Lin , Li Qing‐tian , Gao Yinan , Kong Jin
Published: January 2013

Melatonin is a well‐known molecule which possesses many beneficial effects on human health. Many agriculture products provide natural melatonin in the diet. Cherry is one such fruit as they are rich in melatonin. In order to understand the biological roles of melatonin in cherry fruit, melatonin synthesis and its changes over 24 hr period were systematically monitored both during their development and in the ripe cherries in two cultivars, ‘Hongdeng’ (Prunus avium L. cv. Hongdeng) and ‘Rainier’ (Prunus avium L. cv. Rainier). It was found that both darkness and oxidative stress induced melatonin synthesis, which led to dual melatonin synthetic peaks during a 24 hr period. The high levels of malondialdehyde induced by high temperature and high intensity light exposure were directly related to up‐regulated melatonin production. A primary function of melatonin in cherry fruits is speculated to be as an antioxidant to protect the cherry from the oxidative stress. Importantly, plant tryptophan decaboxylase gene (PaTDC) was identified in cherry fruits. Our data shows that PaTDC expression is positively related to the melatonin production in the cherry. This provides additional information to suggest that tryptophan decaboxylase is a rate‐limiting enzyme of melatonin synthesis in plants.
Increasing Access to Cholesterol Screening in Rural Communities Catalyzes Cardiovascular Disease Prevention
Authors: Landy David C. , Gorin Michael A. , Rudock Robert J. , O'Connell Mark T.
Published: January 2013

Purpose

Despite increasing frequency, little evidence guides cholesterol screening in less traditional health care settings, such as rural health fairs.

Methods

The Miller School of Medicine Department of Community Service (DOCS) is a student‐run organization providing free basic health care to underserved South Florida communities. We retrospectively reviewed all new patients seen at 2007 DOCS rural fairs to describe their low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) and high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) values. In addition, we assessed if patient characteristics were associated with cholesterol abnormalities and whether patients with abnormalities who returned to a subsequent fair in 2008 or 2009 improved their cholesterol.

Findings

Of 252 patients, 145 (58%) had an LDL cholesterol over 129 mg/dL and 61 (24%) had an HDL cholesterol below 40 mg/dL or 50 mg/dL for males and females, respectively. Baseline LDL cholesterol was not associated with body‐mass index (BMI), age over 60 years, gender, healthy lifestyle habits, or insurance status. Of 36 patients with elevated LDL cholesterol and a follow‐up screening, 24 (67%) reduced their LDL cholesterol by at least 16 mg/dL though reductions were not associated with BMI reduction, and 22 (61%) increased their HDL cholesterol by at least 5 mg/dL, trending with BMI reduction.

Conclusions

Cholesterol screening at rural fairs can identify a high proportion of patients with abnormal cholesterol, including those who might not be considered at high risk. Although this may catalyze favorable cholesterol changes, the lack of an association with weight loss suggests patients seek additional medical care, which should be considered before offering cholesterol screening at fairs.
Re‐conceptualizing Abstract Conceptualization in Social Theory: The Case of the “Structure” Concept
Authors: Lizardo Omar
Published: January 2013

I this paper, I draw on recent research on the radically embodied and perceptual bases of conceptualization in linguistics and cognitive science to develop a new way of reading and evaluating abstract concepts in social theory. I call this approach Sociological Idea Analysis. I argue that, in contrast to the traditional view of abstract concepts, which conceives them as amodal “presuppositions” removed from experience, abstract concepts are irreducibly grounded in experience and partake of non‐negotiable perceptual‐symbolic features from which a non‐propositional “logic” naturally follows. This implies that uncovering the imagistic bases of allegedly abstract notions should be a key part of theoretical evaluation of concepts in social theory. I provide a case study of the general category of “structure” in the social and human sciences to demonstrate the analytic utility of the approach.
Heterogeneity of fibrosis patterns in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease supports the presence of multiple fibrogenic pathways
Authors: Skoien Richard , Richardson Michelle M. , Jonsson Julie R. , Powell Elizabeth E. , Brunt Elizabeth M. , Neuschwander‐Tetri Brent A. , Bhathal Prithi S. , Dixon John B. , O'Brien Paul E. , Tilg Herbert , Moschen Alexander R. , Baumann Ulrich , Brown Rachel M. , Couper Richard T. , Manton Nicholas D. , Ee Looi C. , Weltman Martin , Clouston Andrew D.
Published: January 2013

Background

Adult non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) involves lobular necroinflammatory activity and fibrosis is typically centrilobular, whereas paediatric NAFLD has predominantly portal fibrosis. The reasons for these differences are unclear. We aimed to determine (a) how centrilobular and portal fibrosis in children relate to histological parameters; and (b) whether atypical fibrosis patterns exist in adults that are unexplained by current fibrogenesis models.

Methods

Histological features of paediatric (n = 38) and adult (n = 56) NAFLD were assessed using conventional scoring systems. Keratin‐7 immunostaining was used to assess hepatic progenitor cell numbers and the ductular reaction. Centrilobular and portal components of fibrosis were independently scored and fibrosis patterns were classified according to accepted types. Post‐treatment (rosiglitazone/gastric banding) biopsies were also examined in adults.

Results

Twenty‐six children (68.4%) had portal‐predominant fibrosis, although the typical “adult” pattern was seen in 11 (28.9%). Portal fibrosis was associated with a ductular reaction (P = 0.021) and hepatic progenitor cell expansion (P < 0.001), whereas centrilobular fibrosis was associated with lobular inflammation (P = 0.026) and ballooning (P = 0.001). Before intervention, six adults (10.7%) had atypical fibrosis including 3 (5.4%) with a previously unrecognized pattern of very fine, non‐zonal sinusoidal fibrosis. Despite improvements in steatosis and inflammation, more patients developed this unusual pattern after intervention with most having had surgery (9 of 10 adults; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Differing associations with portal and centrilobular fibrosis in children and atypical fibrosis patterns in adults suggest that multiple fibrogenic pathways exist in NAFLD. This has implications for therapy and understanding pathogenesis.
Stalking the wild Tetrahymena
Authors: Katz Laura A. , Turkewitz Aaron P.
Published: January 2013

We live on a microbial planet. Microorganisms dominate in terms of numbers of lineages, numbers of organisms, biomass and evolutionary innovations. Yet much remains to be learned about our microbial neighbours. We have gotten to know a few species that have been transformed into ‘laboratory rats’ (i.e. model organisms), but even here our understanding of the natural history of these lineages remains inadequate as there are few data from populations living in natural habitats. Zufall et al. (2013) move beyond this trend by providing insights into the natural history of Tetrahymena thermophila, a ciliate that has been used in many studies of cellular and molecular biology. Characterization of T. thermophila sampled from numerous ponds across this ciliate's range in Eastern North America reveals the following: (i) considerable differentiation among isolates, with the greatest diversity among lineages in New England, and (ii) a relatively small effective population size for this model ciliate. Such population data are fundamental for inferences about the origins of the numerous remarkable features of T. thermophila.
When bugs reveal biodiversity
Authors: Bohmann Kristine , Schnell Ida Bærholm , Gilbert M. Thomas P.
Published: January 2013

One of the fundamental challenges of conservation biology is gathering data on species distribution and abundance. And unless conservationists know where a species is found and in which numbers, it is very difficult to apply effective conservation efforts. In today's age of increasingly powerful monitoring tools, instant communication and online databases, one might be forgiven for thinking that such knowledge is easy to come by. However, of the approximately 5,400 terrestrial mammals on the IUCN Red List, no fewer than 789 (ca. 14%) are listed as ‘Data Deficient’ (IUCN 2012) – IUCN's term for ‘haven't got a clue’. Until recently, the only way to gather information of numbers and distribution of terrestrial mammals (and many other vertebrates) was through observational‐based approaches such as visual records, the presence of tracks or spoor or even identification from bushmeat or hunters' trophies pinned to the walls in local villages. While recent technological developments have considerably improved the efficacy of such approaches, for example, using remote‐sensing devices such as audio‐ or camera‐traps or even remote drones (Koh & Wich 2012), there has been a growing realization of the power of molecular methods that identify mammals based on trace evidence. Suitable substrates include the obvious, such as faecal and hair samples (e.g. Vigilant et al. 2009), to the less obvious, including environmental DNA extracted from sediments, soil or water samples (e.g. Taberlet et al. 2012), and as recently demonstrated, the dietary content of blood‐sucking invertebrates (Gariepy et al. 2012; Schnell et al. 2012). In this issue of Molecular Ecology, Calvignac‐Spencer et al. (2013) present a potentially powerful development in this regard; diet analysis of carrion flies. With their near global distribution, and as most field biologists know, irritatingly high frequency in most terrestrial areas of conservation concern (which directly translates into ease of sampling them), the authors present extremely encouraging results that indicate how carnivorous flies may soon represent a strong weapon in the conservation arsenal.
Effect of Erythrocyte Aggregation on Spatiotemporal Variations in Cell‐Free Layer Formation Near on Arteriolar Bifurcation
Authors: Ong Peng Kai , Kim Sangho
Published: January 2013

Objective

To investigate how red blood cell aggregation could modulate the spatial variations in cell‐free layer formation in the vicinity of an arteriolar bifurcation.

Methods

Visualization of blood flow was performed in upstream and downstream vessels of arteriolar bifurcations in the rat cremaster muscles under reduced flow conditions before and after induction of red blood cell aggregation to both physiological normal‐ and pathological hyperlevels seen in humans.

Results

Large asymmetries of layer widths on opposite sides of the downstream vessel were attenuated along the vessel and this effect could be prominently enhanced by the hyperaggregation due to a higher formation rate of the layer which was greater on one side than the other of the vessel. The proportion of downstream layer formation constituted by the smaller downstream vessel generally increased with a thicker layer width at the wall of the upstream vessel adjacent it. A greater tendency of the layer formation in the smaller downstream vessel was found under the hyperaggregating condition than normal‐aggregating and nonaggregating conditions.

Conclusion

Red blood cell aggregation could attenuate the asymmetry in cell‐free layer formation on opposite sides of the downstream vessel, but enhances the heterogeneity of the layer formation between downstream vessels.
Social Costs of Setting High Aspirations in Competitive Negotiation
Authors: Lai Lei , Bowles Hannah Riley , Babcock Linda
Published: January 2013

This article explores the implications of a negotiator setting high aspirations on the counterpart's assessments of the negotiator and future cooperation toward the negotiator. Participants were 134 undergraduates acting as buyers or sellers in a single‐issue price negotiation. Buyers received instructions to set more or less ambitious aspirations. Buyers who set more ambitious aspirations achieved better economic outcomes. However, sellers paired with buyers setting more ambitious aspirations found their buyers to be less likeable, expressed less willingness to cooperate with them in the future, and behaved less generously toward them in a postnegotiation dictator game. The perceived likeability of the buyer explained why the sellers were less willing to cooperate in the future with buyers who had set more ambitious aspirations. This research contributes to the understanding of the downside of setting high aspirations in a competitive negotiation and provides implications on balancing one‐time economic gain with future social loss.
Dialogue, dispute resolution, and talk‐in‐interaction: On empirical studies of ephemeral phenomena
Authors: Glenn Phillip , Kuttner Ran
Published: January 2013

Although relational theories have gained increasing prominence in the field of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), further clarification of the actual communication that constitutes and contributes to a relational approach in the mediation and negotiation processes is still needed. This article begins by presenting a conception of dialogue as a relational practice. Ethnomethodological conversation analysis (CA) is introduced as a research method well suited to explicating practices of talk that contribute to or undermine relational interaction and dialogue in negotiation and conflict resolution contexts. We present two case studies of two parties negotiating a lease. Comparison of the two instances isolates practices that accomplish or move away from relational interaction and dialogue. This precedes a closing discussion of dialogic phenomena that could be mapped onto sequentially organized interactive practices, allowing them to be identified and studied in actual interactions. Such analysis offers valuable potential for understanding the actual discursive forms that contribute to relational approaches and dialogue and that help cultivate relational awareness and dialogic mindset in practice.
Initiation Behavior in Negotiations: The Moderating Role of Motivation on the Ability–Intentionality Relationship
Authors: Volkema Roger , Kapoutsis, Ilias , Nikolopoulos Andreas
Published: January 2013

This article reports on a study of the effects of recognition of negotiable opportunities (ability) and self‐efficacy (motivation) on initiation behavior in negotiations, an often overlooked stage of the negotiation process. Three phases of the initiation process are examined—engaging, requesting, and optimizing—through three negotiation scenarios offering corresponding forced‐choice behavioral options. Results suggest that, overall, the recognition of negotiable opportunities and the interaction of recognition and self‐efficacy best predict initiation intentionality. More specifically, recognition and the interaction of recognition and self‐efficacy were significantly associated with the likelihood of making a request, whereas the interaction of recognition and self‐efficacy was significantly associated with the likelihood of optimizing that request. The implications of these findings for practitioners and future research are discussed.
Common mycorrhizal networks amplify size inequality in Andropogon gerardii monocultures
Authors: Weremijewicz Joanna , Janos David P.
Published: January 2013

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi can interconnect plant root systems through hyphal common mycorrhizal networks, which may influence the distribution of limiting mineral nutrients among interconnected individuals, potentially affecting competition and consequent size inequality. Using a microcosm model system, we investigated whether the members of Andropogon gerardii monocultures compete via common mycorrhizal networks.

We grew A. gerardii seedlings with isolated root systems in individual, adjacent containers while preventing, disrupting or allowing common mycorrhizal networks among them. Fertile soil was placed within the containers, which were embedded within infertile sand. We assessed mycorrhizas, leaf tissue mineral nutrient concentrations, size hierarchies and the growth of nearest neighbors.

Plants interconnected by common mycorrhizal networks had 8% greater colonized root length, 12% higher phosphorus and 35% higher manganese concentrations than plants severed from common mycorrhizal networks. Interconnected plants were, on average, 15% larger and had 32% greater size inequality, as reflected by Gini coefficients, than those with severed connections. Only with intact common mycorrhizal networks were whole‐plant dry weights negatively associated with those of their neighbors.

In the absence of root system overlap, common mycorrhizal networks likely promote asymmetric competition below ground, thereby exaggerating size inequality within A. gerardii populations.
Hydraulic limits on maximum plant transpiration and the emergence of the safety–efficiency trade‐off
Authors: Manzoni Stefano , Vico Giulia , Katul Gabriel , Palmroth Sari , Jackson Robert B. , Porporato Amilcare
Published: January 2013

Soil and plant hydraulics constrain ecosystem productivity by setting physical limits to water transport and hence carbon uptake by leaves. While more negative xylem water potentials provide a larger driving force for water transport, they also cause cavitation that limits hydraulic conductivity. An optimum balance between driving force and cavitation occurs at intermediate water potentials, thus defining the maximum transpiration rate the xylem can sustain (denoted as Emax). The presence of this maximum raises the question as to whether plants regulate transpiration through stomata to function near Emax.

To address this question, we calculated Emax across plant functional types and climates using a hydraulic model and a global database of plant hydraulic traits.

The predicted Emax compared well with measured peak transpiration across plant sizes and growth conditions (R = 0.86, P < 0.001) and was relatively conserved among plant types (for a given plant size), while increasing across climates following the atmospheric evaporative demand. The fact that Emax was roughly conserved across plant types and scales with the product of xylem saturated conductivity and water potential at 50% cavitation was used here to explain the safety–efficiency trade‐off in plant xylem.

Stomatal conductance allows maximum transpiration rates despite partial cavitation in the xylem thereby suggesting coordination between stomatal regulation and xylem hydraulic characteristics.
Gene body methylation shows distinct patterns associated with different gene origins and duplication modes and has a heterogeneous relationship with gene expression in Oryza sativa (rice)
Authors: Wang Yupeng , Wang Xiyin , Lee Tae‐Ho , Mansoor Shahid , Paterson Andrew H.
Published: January 2013

Whole‐genome duplication (WGD) has been recurring and single‐gene duplication is also widespread in angiosperms. Recent whole‐genome DNA methylation maps indicate that gene body methylation (i.e. of coding regions) has a functional role. However, whether gene body methylation is related to gene origins and duplication modes has yet to be reported.

In rice (Oryza sativa), we computed a body methylation level (proportion of methylated CpG within coding regions) for each gene in five tissues.

Body methylation levels follow a bimodal distribution, but show distinct patterns associated with transposable element‐related genes; WGD, tandem, proximal and transposed duplicates; and singleton genes. For pairs of duplicated genes, divergence in body methylation levels increases with physical distance and synonymous (Ks) substitution rates, and WGDs show lower divergence than single‐gene duplications of similar Ks levels. Intermediate body methylation tends to be associated with high levels of gene expression, whereas heavy body methylation is associated with lower levels of gene expression.

The biological trends revealed here are consistent across five rice tissues, indicating that genes of different origins and duplication modes have distinct body methylation patterns, and body methylation has a heterogeneous relationship with gene expression and may be related to survivorship of duplicated genes.
Pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes: lessons from natural history studies of high‐risk individuals
Authors: Nokoff Natalie , Rewers Marian
Published: January 2013

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease characterized by known genetic risk factors with T cell–mediated infiltration and destruction of the beta cells within pancreatic islets. Autoantibodies are the most significant preclinical marker of T1D, and birth cohort studies have provided important insights into the natural history of autoimmunity and T1D. While HLA remains the strongest genetic risk factor, a number of novel gene variants associated with T1D have been found through genome‐wide studies, some of which have been linked to suspected environmental risk factors. Multiple environmental factors that have been suggested to play a role in the development of T1D await confirmation. Current risk‐stratification models for T1D take into account genetic risk factors and autoantibodies. In the future, metabolic profiles, epigenetics, as well as environmental risk factors may be included in such models.
Safety and Efficacy of Open Irrigated‐Tip Catheter Ablation of Wolff‐Parkinson‐White Syndrome in Children and Adolescents
Authors: GULLETTA SIMONE , TSIACHRIS DIMITRIS , RADINOVIC ANDREA , BISCEGLIA CATERINA , MAZZONE PATRIZIO , TREVISI NICOLA , PAGLINO GABRIELE , BELLINI BARBARA , SALA SIMONE , DELLA BELLA PAOLO
Published: January 2013

Background

Irrigated‐tip catheter technology has been used for the elimination of resistant accessory pathways (AP) in adults with Wolff‐Parkinson‐White (WPW) syndrome. However, there are persistent concerns regarding the safety of irrigated catheters in the pediatric population. In this report we present our experience, in terms of effectiveness and safety, of irrigated catheter technology in children and adolescents who underwent ablation of WPW.

Methods

We prospectively followed up all patients less than 18 years old (n = 41, mean age of 12.8 years old) who were referred to our center for radiofrequency (RF) catheter ablation of WPW between January 2010 and July 2011. Catheter ablation was performed in all patients using an open irrigated‐tip catheter (Celsius Thermocool 3.5 mm, 7F, B‐type, Biosense Webster, Diamond Bar, CA, USA). Power was started from 15 W up to 30 W in right‐sided AP; RF pulses in left‐sided APs were delivered at 40 W while 20 W was delivered inside the coronary sinus.

Results

Mean procedure time was 26.4 minutes and mean fluoroscopy time was 12.2 minutes. Overall procedural success was obtained in 39/41 (95.1%) patients after the first procedure. No complications were observed after the procedure. All patients attended their scheduled follow‐up visit at 3, 6, and 12 months and no recurrences were observed based on 12‐lead electrocardiogram and 24‐hour Holter monitoring.

Conclusions

RF ablation of APs using open irrigated‐tip catheters can be performed in children and adolescents with a high acute and long‐term success rate, very short procedure times, and acceptable fluoroscopy times.