bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DAXX-dependent supply of soluble (H3.3–H4) dimers to PML bodies pending deposition into chromatin
Authors: Delbarre Erwan , Ivanauskiene Kristina , Küntziger Thomas , Collas Philippe
Published: December 2012

Replication-independent chromatin deposition of histone variant H3.3 is mediated by several chaperones. We report a multistep targeting of newly synthesized epitope-tagged H3.3 to chromatin via PML bodies. H3.3 is recruited to PML bodies in a DAXX-dependent manner, a process facilitated by ASF1A. DAXX is required for enrichment of ATRX, but not ASF1A or HIRA, with PML. Nonetheless, the chaperones colocalize with H3.3 at PML bodies and are found in one or more complexes with PML. Both DAXX and PML are necessary to prevent accumulation of a soluble, nonincorporated pool of H3.3. H3.3 targeting to PML is enhanced with an (H3.3–H4)2 tetramerization mutant of H3.3, suggesting H3.3 recruitment to PML as an (H3.3–H4) dimer rather than as a tetramer. Our data support a model of DAXX-mediated recruitment of (H3.3–H4) dimers to PML bodies, which may function as triage centers for H3.3 deposition into chromatin by distinct chaperones.
Highly active zinc-finger nucleases by extended modular assembly
Authors: Bhakta Mital S. , Henry Isabelle M. , Ousterout David G. , Das Kumitaa Theva , Lockwood Sarah H. , Meckler Joshua F. , Wallen Mark C. , Zykovich Artem , Yu Yawei , Leo Heather , Xu Lifeng , Gersbach Charles A. , Segal David J.
Published: December 2012

Zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs) are important tools for genome engineering. Despite intense interest by many academic groups, the lack of robust noncommercial methods has hindered their widespread use. The modular assembly (MA) of ZFNs from publicly available one-finger archives provides a rapid method to create proteins that can recognize a very broad spectrum of DNA sequences. However, three- and four-finger arrays often fail to produce active nucleases. Efforts to improve the specificity of the one-finger archives have not increased the success rate above 25%, suggesting that the MA method might be inherently inefficient due to its insensitivity to context-dependent effects. Here we present the first systematic study on the effect of array length on ZFN activity. ZFNs composed of six-finger MA arrays produced mutations at 15 of 21 (71%) targeted loci in human and mouse cells. A novel drop-out linker scheme was used to rapidly assess three- to six-finger combinations, demonstrating that shorter arrays could improve activity in some cases. Analysis of 268 array variants revealed that half of MA ZFNs of any array composition that exceed an ab initio B-score cutoff of 15 were active. These results suggest that, when used appropriately, MA ZFNs are able to target more DNA sequences with higher success rates than other current methods.
Rare allelic forms of PRDM9 associated with childhood leukemogenesis
Authors: Hussin Julie , Sinnett Daniel , Casals Ferran , Idaghdour Youssef , Bruat Vanessa , Saillour Virginie , Healy Jasmine , Grenier Jean-Christophe , de Malliard Thibault , Busche Stephan , Spinella Jean-François , Larivière Mathieu , Gibson Greg , Andersson Anna , Holmfeldt Linda , Ma Jing , Wei Lei , Zhang Jinghui , Andelfinger Gregor , Downing James R. , Mullighan Charles G. , Awadalla Philip
Published: December 2012

One of the most rapidly evolving genes in humans, PRDM9, is a key determinant of the distribution of meiotic recombination events. Mutations in this meiotic-specific gene have previously been associated with male infertility in humans and recent studies suggest that PRDM9 may be involved in pathological genomic rearrangements. In studying genomes from families with children affected by B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), we characterized meiotic recombination patterns within a family with two siblings having hyperdiploid childhood B-ALL and observed unusual localization of maternal recombination events. The mother of the family carries a rare PRDM9 allele, potentially explaining the unusual patterns found. From exomes sequenced in 44 additional parents of children affected with B-ALL, we discovered a substantial and significant excess of rare allelic forms of PRDM9. The rare PRDM9 alleles are transmitted to the affected children in half the cases; nonetheless there remains a significant excess of rare alleles among patients relative to controls. We successfully replicated this latter observation in an independent cohort of 50 children with B-ALL, where we found an excess of rare PRDM9 alleles in aneuploid and infant B-ALL patients. PRDM9 variability in humans is thought to influence genomic instability, and these data support a potential role for PRDM9 variation in risk of acquiring aneuploidies or genomic rearrangements associated with childhood leukemogenesis.
Decreased Photochemical Efficiency of Photosystem II following Sunlight Exposure of Shade-Grown Leaves of Avocado: Because of, or in Spite of, Two Kinetically Distinct Xanthophyll Cycles?
Authors: Jia Husen , Förster Britta , Chow Wah Soon , Pogson Barry James , Osmond C. Barry
Published: December 2012

This study resolved correlations between changes in xanthophyll pigments and photosynthetic properties in attached and detached shade-grown avocado (Persea americana) leaves upon sun exposure. Lutein epoxide (Lx) was deepoxidized to lutein (L), increasing the total pool by ƊL over 5 h, whereas violaxanthin (V) conversion to antheraxanthin (A) and zeaxanthin (Z) ceased after 1 h. During subsequent dark or shade recovery, de novo synthesis of L and Z continued, followed by epoxidation of A and Z but not of L. Light-saturated nonphotochemical quenching (NPQ) was strongly and linearly correlated with decreasing [Lx] and increasing [∆L] but showed a biphasic correlation with declining [V] and increasing [A+Z] separated when V deepoxidation ceased. When considering [ƊL+∆Z], the monophasic linear correlation was restored. Photochemical efficiency of photosystem II (PSII) and photosystem (PSI; deduced from the delivery of electrons to PSI in saturating single-turnover flashes) showed a strong correlation in their continuous decline in sunlight and an increase in NPQ capacity. This decrease was also reflected in the initial reduction of the slope of photosynthetic electron transport versus photon flux density. Generally longer, stronger sun exposures enhanced declines in both slope and maximum photosynthetic electron transport rates as well as photochemical efficiency of PSII and PSII/PSI more severely and prevented full recovery. Interestingly, increased NPQ capacity was accompanied by slower relaxation. This was more prominent in detached leaves with closed stomata, indicating that photorespiratory recycling of CO2 provided little photoprotection to avocado shade leaves. Sun exposure of these shade leaves initiates a continuum of photoprotection, beyond full engagement of the Lx and V cycle in the antenna, but ultimately photoinactivated PSII reaction centers.
Local oxidative stress in interdigital tinea pedis
Authors: Ozturk Perihan , Arican Ozer , Kurutas Ergul B. , Karakas Tugba , Gungor Meltem
Published: December 2012

Several skin diseases are believed to be associated with oxidative stress. Tinea pedis is an infection of the feet caused by fungi. The infectious diseases caused by dermatophytes are mainly related to the enzymes produced by these fungi. The cutaneous oxidative stress status of tinea pedis has not been demonstrated in the published work up to now. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the role of oxidative stress in affected skin areas in a group of patients with interdigital tinea pedis. Thirty‐one consecutive patients with a diagnosis of unilateral interdigital tinea pedis were enrolled. The samples were obtained by scraping the skin surface. Oxidative stress biomarkers such as superoxide dismutase, catalase and malondialdehyde levels were measured spectrophotometrically. The activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase and the levels of malondialdehyde were significantly higher on the lesional area than the non‐lesional area (P < 0.001). According to sex and fungal subtypes, there was no significant difference in the levels of oxidative stress biomarkers in patients with tinea pedis (P > 0.05). Our results suggested that antioxidant defense of lesional skin surface was higher compared to non‐lesional skin. This is possibly due to a compensatory response to various fungal infections and thereby protects the cells against oxidative damage.
More rapid and severe disease outbreaks for aquaculture at the tropics: implications for food security
Authors: Leung Tommy L. F. , Bates Amanda E.
Published: December 2012

Aquaculture is replacing capture fisheries in supplying the world with dietary protein. Although disease is a major threat to aquaculture production, the underlying global epidemiological patterns are unknown.

We analysed disease outbreak severity across different latitudes in a diverse range of aquaculture systems.

Disease at lower latitudes progresses more rapidly and results in higher cumulative mortality, in particular at early stages of development and in shellfish.

Tropical countries suffer proportionally greater losses in aquaculture during disease outbreaks and have less time to mitigate losses.

Synthesis and applications. Disease can present a major problem for food production and security in equatorial regions where fish and shellfish provide a major source of dietary protein. As the incidences of some infectious diseases may increase with climate change, adaptation strategies must consider global patterns in disease vulnerability of aquaculture and develop options to minimize impacts on food production.
Comparison of the transduction efficiency of tyrosine‐mutant adeno‐associated virus serotype vectors in kidney
Authors: Qi Yan F. , Li Qiu H. , Shenoy Vinayak , Zingler Michael , Jun Joo Y. , Verma Amrisha , Katovich Michael J. , Raizada Mohan K.
Published: December 2012

Gene therapy has a distinct potential to treat kidney diseases. However, the efficient transduction of a significant number of renal cells by viral vectors has been difficult to accomplish. Previous studies indicate that adeno‐associated virus (AAV) can transduce renal cells with variable and suboptimal efficiency. Because new and innovative mutants of AAV are now available, we compared their efficacy in transducing rat kidneys.

We compared five types of AAV mutants (AAV2 mut‐triple, AAV2 sextuple, AAV8 mut447, AAV8 mut733 and AAV9 mut446) carrying a green fluorescence protein (GFP) reporter gene. A pressure microinjection technique was used to inject either 1.5 × 1011 vector genome (vg) AAV mutants or three dose of AAV2 sextuple into the renal cortex of rats. The microinjection approach has not been used in AAV‐mediated renal gene transfer thus far. Slow and sustained microinjection enables continuous administration of the viral vector to the kidney cortex and limits any damage to the kidney, because the tip of a glass micropipette is very small.

Three weeks after injection, the kidneys were collected and evaluated for GFP expression. Among the various mutated AAV serotypes studied, only AAV2 sextuple showed robust GFP expression in renal tissue. The AAV2 sextuple serotype appears to be an efficient gene transfer vector to preferentially target renal tubular epithelial cells. A combination of the AAV2 sextuple and the microinjection technique holds the key to the future of therapeutic treatments for kidney diseases.
Effects of exercise training on nitric oxide synthase in the kidney of spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Ito Daisuke , Ito Osamu , Cao Pengyu , Mori Nobuyoshi , Suda Chihiro , Muroya Yoshikazu , Takashima Kenta , Ito Sadayoshi , Kohzuki Masahiro
Published: December 2012

Exercise training is known to have antihypertensive effects in humans and animals with hypertension, as well as to exhibit renal protective effects in animal models of hypertension and chronic renal failure. However, the mechanisms regulating these effects of exercise training remain unclear.

The present study examined the effects of exercise training on nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in the kidneys of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and normotensive Wistar‐Kyoto (WKY) rats.

Male SHR and WKY rats were randomly divided into a sedentary group and a treadmill exercise group for 8 weeks. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was measured every 2 weeks by the tail‐cuff method and urine and blood samples were collected after the exercise protocol. Nitric oxide synthase activity and protein expression and endothelial (e) NOS phosphorylation in the kidney were examined.

Exercise training significantly lowered SBP, decreased urinary albumin excretion, thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances levels and renal NADPH oxidase activity, and increased creatinine clearance in SHR. Exercise training significantly increased plasma and urinary nitrate/nitrite, NOS activity and eNOS and neuronal NOS expression, but decreased eNOS phosphorylation at Ser1177 and Thr495 in kidneys of SHR and WKY rats.

Renal NOS may be involved in the antihypertensive and renal protective effects of exercise training in SHR.
A System under Stress: TheIcelandic Volcano Ash Crisis
Authors: Christensen Tom , Johannessen Mathias , Lægreid Per
Published: December 2012

This paper analyzes the response to the Icelandic volcano ash crisis of 2010. We examine how the original response was determined by the formal organization of the European air traffic control system, how the crisis was defined, what characterized the or new regulatory regime, and how one can explain the development and handling of the crisis. The theoretical basis is a combination of instrumental organization theory and crisis management theories. The crisis is handled via established organizational arrangements and principles that impose limits on the scope of action. The response to the crisis involved fine‐tuning in the form of an instrumental and incremental adaptation of policies, regulations and practices challenging core political values, which also exhibit elements of path dependency.
A crisis of integration? The development of transnational dyadic trust in theEuropeanUnion, 1954–2004
Authors: Klingemann Hans‐Dieter , Weldon Steven
Published: December 2012

The healthy functioning and long‐term viability of theEuropeanUnion (EU) ultimately depend on its citizens finding common cause and developing a shared sense of political community. However, in recent years, scholars and pundits alike have expressed doubts about whether theEU's growing cultural, religious and economic diversity is undermining the development of citizens' shared sense of political community, especially following eastern expansion. In this article, this question is examined using data on a key aspect of political community: transnational dyadic trust. Drawing on a unique set of opinion surveys from the formative years of theEUto the first wave of eastward expansion (1954–2004), the development and sources of dyadic trust amongEU MemberStates is studied. While recognising the importance of diversity for trust judgments in the short‐term, the prevailing viewpoint that it is also a long‐term obstacle to integration is challenged. Instead, it is argued that citizens from diverse cultural and economic backgrounds can learn to trust one another and build a sense of political community over time through greater cooperation and interconnectedness. This theory is tested with data on bilateral trade density, which is seen as a proxy and precursor for other forms of cross‐national interconnectedness. Employing longitudinal models, the article also goes beyond existing research to test the theories over time. The study makes a contribution to the research onEuropean integration, suggesting that over time mutual trust and a shared sense of political community can indeed develop in diverse settings.
‘When I find myself in times of trouble …’ : The conditional effect of international organisations on policy convergence
Authors: Fink Simon
Published: December 2012

Most quantitative analyses of policy convergence treat transnational communication in international organisations and domestic economic problems as additive factors. By contrast, this article argues that domestic economic problems motivate governments to search for successful policies, while international organisations offer channels for policy learning. Thus, both factors interact, magnifying each other's effects. The argument is corroborated by a quantitative analysis of the privatisation of telecommunications providers in the Western OECD world. A dyadic logit model shows that joint membership in international organisations increases the likelihood of policy convergence if governments face budget deficits. The argument of the article builds a bridge between theories of international organisations and domestic theories of policy making. Theories of the former gain an important scope condition specifying the conditions under which transnational communication works, while exploring the latter gains a theory specifying where new policy ideas come from.
Elections inWesternEuropean parliaments
Authors: Sieberer Ulrich
Published: December 2012

Parliaments often elect holders of important extra‐parliamentary offices such as heads of state, constitutional judges, heads of audit institutions and ombudsmen. What drives the behaviour of parliamentary actors and the outcome of such elections? This article explains actor behaviour theoretically, drawing on spatial factors, principal‐agent arguments about the importance of nonspatial candidate characteristics and signaling arguments about competitive considerations beyond the specific election. Empirically, it provides the first comparative analysis of such elections outside theUnitedStatesSenate using original data on 100 elections for four external offices in 14WesternEuropean parliaments. The findings show that spatial variables, nonspatial candidate characteristics and features of the competitive context systematically affect the election outcome. The article contributes to comparative parliamentary research in general by demonstrating how parliamentary activities, other than lawmaking, can be analysed using established theories and by showing that consensual aggregate outcomes can be explained within a competition‐based rational choice model.
Organizational Status of Dialysis Facilities and Patient Outcome: Does Higher Injectable Medication Use Mediate Increased Mortality?
Authors: Zhang Yi , Thamer Mae , Kshirsagar Onkar , Cotter Dennis J.
Published: December 2012

Objective

Examine the mediating effect of injectable drugs in the relationship between dialysis facility organizational status and patient mortality.

Study Setting

Medicare dialysis population.

Study Design

Data from the U.S. Renal Data System (USRDS) were used to identify 3,884 freestanding dialysis facilities and 37,942 Medicare patients incident to end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) in 2006. The role of injectable medications was evaluated during a 2‐year follow‐up period by mediational analyses using mixed‐effect regression models.

Data Collection

USRDS data were matched with Dialysis Facility Report data from Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and census data.

Principal Findings

There was a strong association found between organizational status and use of injectable drugs. Large for‐profit chains used significantly higher injectable medications compared with nonprofit chains and independent facilities. However, the relationship between facility organizational status and patient mortality was not found to be mediated through the higher use of injectable drugs.

Conclusions

Large for‐profit chain facilities administered higher IV epoetin, iron, and vitamin D dosages, but this did not result in improved survival. Given the associated costs and lack of a survival benefit, the overuse of injectable medications among the U.S. dialysis patients will likely end under the recent bundling of injectable medications without jeopardizing patient outcomes.
Squeezing the Balloon: Propensity Scores and Unmeasured Covariate Balance
Authors: Brooks John M. , Ohsfeldt Robert L.
Published: December 2012

Objective

To assess the covariate balancing properties of propensity score‐based algorithms in which covariates affecting treatment choice are both measured and unmeasured.

Data Sources/Study Setting

A simulation model of treatment choice and outcome.

Study Design

Simulation.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

Eight simulation scenarios varied with the values placed on measured and unmeasured covariates and the strength of the relationships between the measured and unmeasured covariates. The balance of both measured and unmeasured covariates was compared across patients either grouped or reweighted by propensity scores methods.

Principal Findings

Propensity score algorithms require unmeasured covariate variation that is unrelated to measured covariates, and they exacerbate the imbalance in this variation between treated and untreated patients relative to the full unweighted sample.

Conclusions

The balance of measured covariates between treated and untreated patients has opposite implications for unmeasured covariates in randomized and observational studies. Measured covariate balance between treated and untreated patients in randomized studies reinforces the notion that all covariates are balanced. In contrast, forced balance of measured covariates using propensity score methods in observational studies exacerbates the imbalance in the independent portion of the variation in the unmeasured covariates, which can be likened to squeezing a balloon. If the unmeasured covariates affecting treatment choice are confounders, propensity score methods can exacerbate the bias in treatment effect estimates.
Prospective observational study of the practice of endotracheal intubation in the emergency department of a tertiary hospital in Sydney, Australia
Authors: Fogg Toby , Annesley Nick , Hitos Kerry , Vassiliadis John
Published: December 2012

Objective

To describe the practice of endotracheal intubation in the ED of a tertiary hospital in Australia, with particular emphasis on the indication, staff seniority, technique, number of attempts required and the rate of complications.

Methods

A prospective observational study.

Results

Two hundred and ninety‐five intubations occurred in 18 months. Trauma was the indication for intubation in 30.5% (95% CI 25.3–36.0) and medical conditions in 69.5% (95% CI 64.0–74.5). Emergency physicians were team leaders in 69.5% (95% CI 64.0–74.5), whereas ED registrars or senior Resident Medical Officers made the first attempt at intubation in 88.1% (95% CI 83.9–91.3). Difficult laryngoscopy occurred in 24.0% (95% CI 19.5–29.3) of first attempts, whereas first pass success occurred in 83.4% (95% CI 78.7–87.2). A difficult intubation occurred in 3.4% (95% CI 1.9–6.1) and all patients were intubated orally in five or less attempts. A bougie was used in 30.9% (95% CI 25.8–36.5) of first attempts, whereas a stylet in 37.5% (95% CI 32.1–43.3). Complications occurred in 29.0% (95% CI 23.5–34.1) of the patients, with desaturation the commonest in 15.7% (95% CI 11.9–20.5). Cardiac arrest occurred in 2.2% (95% CI 0.9–4.4) after intubation. No surgical airways were undertaken.

Conclusion

Although the majority of results are comparable with overseas data, the rates of difficult laryngoscopy and desaturation are higher than previously reported. We feel that this data has highlighted the need for practice improvement within our department and we would encourage all those who undertake emergent airway management to audit their own practice of this high‐risk procedure.
Penetrating head injury with bilateral eye avulsion due to Himalayan bear bite
Authors: Roka Yam B , Roka Narayani , Shrestha Manzil , Puri Puspa R , Adhikari Hari B
Published: December 2012

The Himalayan black bear (Ursus thibetanus or Selenarctos thibetanus), although an omnivore, is more carnivorous than its American counterpart. It is also more aggressive towards humans and is a threatened species because of the deforestation in the Himalayas. Furthermore, poverty, encroachment of the forest, extensive deforestation, lack of education and living near the forest are factors that increase the probability of such animal injuries. We report the case of a 35‐year‐old woman who suffered a severe penetrating head injury with scalp and bilateral eye avulsion, which was managed successfully.
Lemierre's syndrome: Diagnosis in the emergency department
Authors: Davies Owen , Than Martin
Published: December 2012

A 15‐year‐old boy presented with signs of sepsis and a history of sore throat, fevers and shortness of breath. Full examination revealed an erythematous oropharynx and mild tonsillar swelling. He rapidly deteriorated requiring admission to intensive care. Blood cultures grew Fusobacterium necrophorum and an ultrasound scan performed for left neck tenderness confirmed internal jugular vein thrombosis. He was diagnosed with Lemierre's syndrome. This condition results from pharyngitis or tonsillitis with bacterial spread to the lateral pharyngeal space. Internal jugular vein thrombosis ensues with septic emboli and metastatic infections that most frequently involve the lungs. Although increasing in incidence, diagnosis is often delayed. We discuss why and describe its clinical presentation, investigations of choice and treatment strategies.
Association between emergency department length of stay and outcome of patients admitted either to a ward, intensive care or high dependency unit
Authors: Flabouris Arthas , Jeyadoss Jellsingh , Field John , Soulsby Tom
Published: December 2012

Objective

To evaluate the association of ED length of stay (EDLOS) and outcome of patients admitted to a ward, intensive care (ICU) or stepdown (high dependency) unit (SDU).

Methods

Design: Retrospective cohort study using linked administrative and clinical data. Setting: 650‐bed, university‐affiliated, tertiary referral hospital, whose ED has approximately 60 000 patient presentations per annum. Participants: Adult patients admitted via the ED, to a ward (ED to ward), ICU (ED to ICU) or SDU (ED to SDU), and whose EDLOS was <24 h. Outcome measures: Hospital outcome and LOS.

Results

A total of 43 484 patients over 4 years. Median EDLOS was 2:36 h for ICU, 5:07 h for SDU and 7:19 h for ward (P < 0.01) patients. EDLOS differed significantly, based on hospital outcome, for ward (alive, 7:18 h vs died, 7:44 h, P < 0.001), but not SDU or ICU patients. At an EDLOS of 4 and 8 h, 19.4% and 5.2% of ICU, 52.1% and 15.5% of SDU and 77.9% and 32.6% of ward patients remained in the ED. EDLOS was not a significant predictor of death, in comparison with increasing age and admitting unit across all three groups, and higher triage acuity for ED to ward and ED to ICU.

Conclusions

EDLOS was greater for ED to ward patients, and of the ED to ward patients who died. At an EDLOS of 4 h there were fewer ICU, in comparison with ward, patients remaining in the ED. Future studies that report on EDLOS should differentiate for patients admitted from the ED to the ward, ICU or SDU.
Male attacks on infants and infant death during male takeovers in wild white‐headed langurs (Trachypithecus leucocephalus)
Authors: YIN Lijie , JIN Tong , WATANABE Kunio , QIN Dagong , WANG Dezhi , PAN Wenshi
Published: December 2012

Infanticide was first observed in langurs nearly 50 years ago, and this rare phenomenon has been inferred to have either an evolutionarily adaptive function or to be a pathological and non‐functional behavior. In this study, we report 5 male takeover events in one‐male groups of white‐headed langurs in the Nongguan Karst Hills, Guangxi, China from 1998 to 2006. We recorded 13 attacks on 9 infants by extra‐group males or new resident males. During the male takeovers, all of the infants younger than 6 months (with an average age of 3.6 months [N= 11]) in the groups disappeared. The infant death rate during the 4.2 months after takeover by a new male was significantly higher than the infant death rate calculated for most of the year. Older infants that were still nursing (with an average age of 14.1 months [N= 7]) were often attacked and seriously wounded by the extra‐group males or new resident males, but all of them survived. The interbirth intervals of females whose infants were assumed to be killed by males were significantly reduced relative to those of females in groups with stable male tenure (mean = 10 monthsvs25 months). Our data suggest that males kill unrelated and unweaned infants during the takeover period to decrease the time until the infants’ mothers resume fertility. Thus, infanticide would support sexual selection theory in white‐headed langurs. The data also show that infanticidal behavior was directed toward the infants, especially those who were still nursing. Female dispersal may function as a counter‐strategy to avoid infanticide.
An inhaled tumor necrosis factor‐alpha‐derived TIP peptide improves the pulmonary function in experimental lung injury
Authors: HARTMANN E. K. , BOEHME S. , DUENGES B. , BENTLEY A. , KLEIN K. U. , KWIECIEN R. , SHI C. , SZCZYRBA M. , DAVID M. , MARKSTALLER K.
Published: December 2012

Introduction

The lectin‐like domain of TNF‐α enhances the fluid clearance across the alveolar barrier. For experimental purposes, the lectin‐like domain can be mimicked by a synthetic peptide representing the TIP‐motif of TNF‐α. The present study aims to assess the acute effect of TIP on the pulmonary function in a porcine model of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

Methods

Lung injury was induced in 16 pigs (25–27 kg) by bronchoalveolar lavage followed by injurious ventilation. Following randomisation, either nebulised TIP (1 mg/kg; AP301, APEPTICO, Vienna, Austria) or water for injection (control group) was administered. During 5 h of monitoring, the extravascular lung water index (EVLWI), the quotient of partial pressure of oxygen and inspired oxygen concentration (PaO2/FiO2) and the pulmonary shunt fraction were repetitively assessed. The data were evaluated by an analysis of variance including Bonferroni–Holm correction.

Results

Comparable baseline conditions in both groups were achieved. Ventilatory parameters were standardised in both groups. In the TIP group, a significant reduction of the EVLWI and a simultaneous increase in the PaO2/FiO2 ratio was shown (each P < 0.0001). No changes in the control group were observed (EVLWI: P = 0.43, PaO2/FiO2: P = 0.60). The intergroup comparison demonstrates a significant advantage of TIP inhalation over placebo (EVLWI: P < 0.0001, PaO2/FiO2: P = 0.004, shunt fraction: P = 0.0005).

Conclusions

The inhalation of TIP induces an amelioration of clinical surrogate parameters of the lung function in a porcine lung injury model. By mimicking the lectin‐like domain, the synthetic TIP peptide AP301 is an innovative approach as supportive therapy in ARDS.
Rediscovering catatonia: the biography of a treatable syndrome
Authors: Fink Max
Published: December 2012

Objective

Catatonia, a disorder of movement and mood, was described and named in 1874. Other observers quickly made the same recognition. By the turn of the century, however, catatonia was incorporated as a type within a conjured syndrome of schizophrenia. There, catatonia has lain in the psychiatric classification for more than a century.

Method

We review the history of catatonia and its present status. In the 1970s, the tie was questioned when catatonia was recognized among those with mood disorders. The recognition of catatonia within the neuroleptic malignant syndrome offered effective treatments of high doses of benzodiazepines and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), again questioning the tie. A verifying test for catatonia (the lorazepam sedation test) was developed. Soon the syndromes of delirious mania, toxic serotonin syndrome, and the repetitive behaviors in adolescents with autism were recognized as treatable variations of catatonia.

Results

Ongoing studies now recognize catatonia among patients labeled as suffering from the Gilles de la Tourette's syndrome, anti‐NMDAR encephalitis, obsessive–compulsive disease, and various mutisms.

Conclusion

Applying the treatments for catatonia to patients with these syndromes offers opportunities for clinical relief. Catatonia is a recognizable and effectively treatable neuropsychiatric syndrome. It has many faces. It warrants recognition outside schizophrenia in the psychiatric disease classification.
Predicting the geographical distribution of Glycaspis brimblecombei (Hemiptera: Psylloidea) in Brazil
Authors: de Queiroz Dalva Luiz , Majer Jonathan , Burckhardt Daniel , Zanetti Ronald , Fernandez Jaime Ivan R , de Queiroz Elisiane Castro , Garrastazu Marilice , Fernandes Bianca Vique , dos Anjos Norivaldo
Published: December 2012

The red gum lerp psyllid, Glycaspis brimblecombei Moore, has been introduced from Australia into several countries, mostly in the Americas and Europe. It was first discovered in Brazil in 2003 and has continued to spread there. Today, the species is a major pest in eucalypt plantations and often requires expensive control measures. Ecological modelling is used here to estimate the potential spread of G. brimblecombeii, worldwide and particularly in Brazil, based on environmental variables from 502 records of G. brimblecombei around the world. Distribution data from Australia were obtained from the literature and recent field surveys. For the first time, G. brimblecombei is recorded from Western Australia. Through the Openmodeller® program interface, 22 bioclimatic variables were used to test the efficacy of the following models: BIOCLIM, Climate Space Model, Envelope Score, Environmental Distance, GARP with best subsets (new Openmodeller implementation), GARP new Openmodeller implementation, GARP best subsets (Desktop GARP implementation), Niche Mosaic and Support Vector Machines. Among these models, Environmental Distance was the best predictor for the potential distribution of G. brimblecombei in new regions. Temperate areas appeared to be more favourable for G. brimblecombei. Regions with highest probability of occurrence in Brazil, in hierarchical order are: the southern part of the Atlantic Forest, Pampa, Caatinga and Cerrado. This modelling procedure provides a useful tool that should be incorporated in future strategies for pest management in eucalypt plantations.
Change in the woody floristic composition, diversity and structure from protected to unprotected savannahs in Pendjari Biosphere Reserve (Benin, West Africa)
Authors: Houehanou Thierry D. , Glèlè Kakaï Romain L. , Assogbadjo Achille E. , Kindomihou Valentin , Houinato Marcel , Wittig Rüdiger , Sinsin Brice A.
Published: December 2012

Savannahs are widespread vegetation type in Sudanian zone of Africa. As protected areas are often assumed to be the best way to conserve biodiversity, we assessed the effectiveness of the Pendjari Biosphere Reserve in Benin, for maintaining savannah woody species composition, diversity and structure. Square plots of 900 m2 were randomly established in protected and surrounding unprotected savannahs, and all woody species (dbh ≥ 1 cm) were recorded and identified. Species composition, Importance Value Index, densities, basal area and diversity indexes were assessed in relation to conservation status. The results showed that DCA based on presence/absence species data did not separate clearly protected savannahs from unprotected ones. However, some species were prominent in unprotected savannahs while others showed the same scheme in protected ones. Diversity indexes indicated a good distribution of species in the two savannah types. The woody density showed a higher value in protected than unprotected savannah at shrub layer level. The basal area was significantly higher in the protected savannah than unprotected one at the two woody layer levels. It can be concluded that biodiversity conservation in surrounding unprotected areas should be of great importance to increase biodiversity conservation by protected area whether specific actions were implemented.
Gender‐Based Violence and HIV: Reviewing the Evidence for Links and Causal Pathways in the General Population and High‐risk Groups
Authors: Dunkle Kristin L. , Decker Michele R.
Published: December 2012

A growing body of international research documents strong associations between gender‐based violence and HIV, both in the general population and among high‐risk subpopulations such as female sex workers. The causal pathways responsible are multiple and complex, thus conceptual clarity is needed to best inform population‐based, clinical, and individually oriented interventions. Our brief overview is intended to provide an introduction to the research on the various mechanisms that link GBV to HIV risk. We review the evidence, describe the causal pathways, provide a conceptual framework, and outline prevention and intervention priorities at both the individual and population levels.
Hospital versus outpatient care for preterm pre‐labour rupture of membranes
Authors: Beckmann Michael , Gardener Glenn
Published: December 2012

Background

To report the outcomes of women admitted following preterm pre‐labour rupture of membranes (pPROM) and to determine whether the location of care (hospital vs outpatient) influences maternal and perinatal outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed using routinely collected de‐identified data of 144 women (between June 2007 and June 2011) who presented to the Mater Mother's Hospital, Brisbane, Australia, with pPROM (prior to 34 weeks 0 days gestation) and who remained undelivered after 72 h from the time of ruptured membranes. Outcomes were compared for women who were subsequently managed as an outpatient (n = 53) versus those who were managed in hospital (n = 91). The two primary outcome measures were composite outcomes of (i) maternal morbidity and (ii) perinatal morbidity/mortality. The composite outcome of maternal morbidity comprised one or more of antepartum haemorrhage, clinical chorioamnionitis and/or endometritis, cord prolapse, blood transfusion, wound infection/haematoma/dehiscence/seroma. The composite outcome of perinatal morbidity/mortality comprised one or more of stillbirth, neonatal death, respiratory distress syndrome, neonatal infection, chronic neonatal lung disease, intraventricular haemorrhage, periventricular leukomalacia and necrotising enterocolitis.

Results

When adjusted for confounders, there was no difference between hospital care and outpatient care in the composite outcome measure of perinatal morbidity/mortality (aOR 1.37; 95%CI 0.55–3.47) or the composite outcome measure of maternal morbidity (aOR 1.62; 95%CI 0.67–3.89).

Conclusions

Women with pPROM who remain undelivered after 72 h and are managed out of hospital do not appear to have significant differences in major adverse maternal or perinatal outcomes compared with those managed as inpatients.
Burden of bisphosphonate‐associated femoral fractures
Authors: Shkolnikova Julia , Flynn Jennifer , Choong Peter
Published: December 2012

Background

Bisphosphonates decrease the risk of typical low trauma fractures, and are commonly prescribed for this indication. The link between atypical fractures and bisphosphonate use is well established; however, who is susceptible to atypical fracture remains unclear. A number of large population‐based studies have disregarded the atypical fracture risk as they have found the absolute risk to be low.

Methods

This is a retrospective review of the radiographs and charts of all patients who presented with subtrochanteric and diaphyseal femoral fractures over a 5‐year period. Patients were interviewed to determine functionality post‐fracture.

Results

Atypical fractures represented 30.3% of all diaphyseal and subtrochanteric femoral fractures. Ninety per cent of all atypical fractures were associated with bisphosphonate use. Atypical fracture patients were younger, more active and are independent prior to fracture and experienced significant complications and self‐reported level of function and health declines post‐fracture.

Conclusion

The burden of bisphosphonate‐associated atypical fractures is significant. The aetiology of these fractures is unclear, and to date, no studies have demonstrated the significance of the injury for the patient. Prescription of bisphosphonate therapy for osteoporosis should be accompanied by ongoing surveillance and warning of the possibility of atypical and minimal trauma fractures.
Intramyocellular lipid variations in active older men: relationship with aerobic fitness
Authors: Rouffet D. , Villars C. , Fissoune R. , Sappey‐Marinier D. , Laville M. , Ibarrola D. , Sothier M. , Monnet M.‐F. , Ovize M. , Bonnefoy M. , Boesch C. , Canet‐Soulas E.
Published: December 2012

Aims

Intramyocellular lipid (IMCL) variations in older men are poorly explored. In young adults, IMCL can be influenced by both diet and exercise interventions; this flexibility is related to aerobic fitness. We evaluated in active older adults the influence of maximal aerobic capacity on short‐term diet and exercise‐induced variations in IMCL stores.

Methods

Intramyocellular lipids were measured by 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H‐MRS) after a 3‐day fat depletion‐replenishment diet (IMCLFDR) and immediately after a 2‐h exercise at 50% VO2 max (IMCLFDR_EX). To further explore diet influence, the protocol was repeated after a high‐fat diet (HF), with both pre‐ and post‐exercise measurements (IMCLHF and IMCLHF_EX).

Results

In active older men (69.8 ± 5.2 years), IMCLFDR was lowered by exercise (IMCLFDR = 3.45 ± 1.52 vs. IMCLFDR_EX = 2.74 ± 1.15 mmol kg−1 wet weight, P < 0.05), and exercise‐induced variations were correlated to the initial store (P < 0.05, r = −0.72). IMCLFDR was linked with aerobic fitness (P < 0.05, r = 0.76), when adjusted by fat mass. IMCLHF was lower than IMCLFDR (P < 0.05), decreased after exercise (P < 0.05) and varied also as a function of initial store (P < 0.05, r = −0.89), but without link with aerobic fitness. Finally, diet‐induced IMCL store variations were positively linked to aerobic fitness (P < 0.05, r = 0.89).

Conclusion

Variations of the IMCL stores in physically active older adults appear related to aerobic fitness, with similarly fast adaptation to short‐term interventions combining diet and exercise as young active adults.
Chemical Analysis of Starch‐Like Mineral Crystals to Eliminate Misidentification in Ancient Residue Research
Authors: Ge Wei
Published: December 2012

To clarify issues involved in problematic identification of ancient starch granules, we investigated suspected granules found in residues from a Neolithic grinding stone in north‐east China. The chemical compositions of suspected granules and modern starch granules were tested via SEM–EDS. The results show that the elemental composition of the suspected granules mainly comprises O, S and Ca, which is similar to the composition of calcium sulphate, but quite different from that of real starch granules, which show high levels of C and O, with very low level of other elements. The findings in this study act as a warning that tiny mineral granules may be misidentified as starch, and also indicate that the method of SEM–EDS can be useful to confirm the nature of suspected granules in ancient starch analysis.
Current understanding of allergic transfusion reactions: incidence, pathogenesis, laboratory tests, prevention and treatment
Authors: Hirayama Fumiya
Published: December 2012

Non‐haemolytic transfusion reactions are the most common type of transfusion reaction and include transfusion‐related acute lung injury, transfusion‐associated circulatory overload, allergic reactions, febrile reactions, post‐transfusion purpura and graft‐versus‐ host disease. Although life‐threatening anaphylaxis occurs rarely, allergic reactions occur most frequently. If possible, even mild transfusion reactions should be avoided because they add to patients' existing suffering. During the last decade, several new discoveries have been made in the field of allergic diseases and transfusion medicine. First, mast cells are not the only cells that are key players in allergic diseases, particularly in the murine immune system. Second, it has been suggested that immunologically active undigested or digested food allergens in a donor's blood may be transferred to a recipient who is allergic to these antigens, causing anaphylaxis. Third, washed platelets have been shown to be effective for preventing allergic transfusion reactions, although substantial numbers of platelets are lost during washing procedures, and platelet recovery after transfusion may not be equivalent to that with unwashed platelets. This review describes allergic transfusion reactions, including the above‐mentioned points, and focusses on their incidence, pathogenesis, laboratory tests, prevention and treatment.
Invertebrates, ecosystem services and climate change
Authors: Prather Chelse M. , Pelini Shannon L. , Laws Angela , Rivest Emily , Woltz Megan , Bloch Christopher P. , Del Toro Israel , Ho Chuan‐Kai , Kominoski John , Newbold T. A. Scott , Parsons Sheena , Joern A.
Published: December 2012

The sustainability of ecosystem services depends on a firm understanding of both how organisms provide these services to humans and how these organisms will be altered with a changing climate. Unquestionably a dominant feature of most ecosystems, invertebrates affect many ecosystem services and are also highly responsive to climate change. However, there is still a basic lack of understanding of the direct and indirect paths by which invertebrates influence ecosystem services, as well as how climate change will affect those ecosystem services by altering invertebrate populations. This indicates a lack of communication and collaboration among scientists researching ecosystem services and climate change effects on invertebrates, and land managers and researchers from other disciplines, which becomes obvious when systematically reviewing the literature relevant to invertebrates, ecosystem services, and climate change. To address this issue, we review how invertebrates respond to climate change. We then review how invertebrates both positively and negatively influence ecosystem services. Lastly, we provide some critical future directions for research needs, and suggest ways in which managers, scientists and other researchers may collaborate to tackle the complex issue of sustaining invertebrate‐mediated services under a changing climate.
Tumor‐targeted chemotherapy with the nanopolymer‐based drug NC‐6004 for oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Endo Kazuhira , Ueno Takayoshi , Kondo Satoru , Wakisaka Naohiro , Murono Shigeyuki , Ito Makoto , Kataoka Kazunori , Kato Yasuki , Yoshizaki Tomokazu
Published: December 2012

Cisplatin (CDDP) has been a key drug for chemotherapy in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Nephrotoxicity is one of its adverse reactions that are dose limiting. To increase its antitumor effects and reduce such toxicity problems, polymeric micelles carrying CDDP (NC‐6004) have been developed. The present study was designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of NC‐6004 for oral squamous cell carcinoma. In vitro antitumor activity was assayed in four oral squamous cell carcinoma cell lines. To investigate the antitumor and nephrotoxic effects of NC‐6004, nude mice bearing OSC‐19 were administered NC‐6004 or CDDP. The in vitro growth‐inhibitory effect of NC‐6004 was significantly less than that of CDDP. However, both NC‐6004 and CDDP showed equivalent antitumor effects in vivo. Mice with CDDP developed renal cell apoptosis; however, those injected with NC‐6004 were almost free of renal cell injury. Moreover, in an orthotopic tongue cancer model using OSC‐19, NC‐6004 reduced the rate of sentinel lymph node metastasis to lower than that with CDDP. In conclusion, considering the potential advantages in terms of noticeable antitumor activity, lymphatic drug delivery and reduced nephrotoxicity, NC‐6004 represents a significant structural improvement in the development of a platinum complex.