bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aquimarina pacifica sp. nov., isolated from seawater
Authors: Zhang Zenghu , Yu Tong , Xu Tingting , Zhang Xiao-Hua
Published: March 2014

A Gram-stain-negative, rod-shaped, non-flagellated, strictly aerobic bacterium with gliding motility, designated strain SW150T, was isolated from surface seawater of the South Pacific Gyre (39° 19′ S 139° 48′ W) during the Integrated Ocean Drilling Program Expedition 329. Optimal growth occurred in the presence of 2–4 % (w/v) NaCl, at pH 7–8 and at 28–30 °C. The dominant fatty acids were iso-C15 : 0, iso-C17 : 0 3-OH, iso-C15 : 1 G, C16 : 1ω6c and/or C16 : 1ω7c and 10-methyl C16 : 0 and/or iso-C17 : 1ω9c. The polar lipids of strain SW150T comprised phosphatidylethanolamine, three unknown polar lipids and one unknown aminolipid. The major respiratory quinone was MK-6. The DNA G+C content of strain SW150T was 33.8 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that the novel strain was related most closely to

Aquimarina macrocephali

JAMB N27T and

Aquimarina muelleri

KMM 6020T with 97.8 and 96.8 % sequence similarities, respectively. The estimated DNA–DNA hybridization values were 21.00±2.33 % between strain SW150T and

A. macrocephali

JAMB N27T and 20.60±2.32 % between strain SW150T and

Aquimarina megaterium

XH134T. On the basis of polyphasic analyses, strain SW150T represents a novel species of the genus

Aquimarina

, for which the name Aquimarina pacifica sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is SW150T ( = JCM 18214T = CGMCC 1.12180T).
7-Isopropylidene-N2,N3,N5,N6-tetramethoxy-N2,N3,N5,N6-tetramethylbicyclo[2.2.1]hepta-2,5-diene-2,3,5,6-tetracarboxamide
Authors: Sahlmann Benjamin , Näther Christian , Herges Rainer
Published: March 2014

Although the molecular structure of the title compound, C22H32N4O8, displays a twofold symmetry of the molecule including the methoxy and methyl substituents, no crystallographic twofold symmetry is observed in the X-ray structure analysis. The carbonyl O atoms alternately point to different sides of the plane defined by the carbonyl C atoms. Two methoxy groups are oriented inside the molecules cavity. The H atoms of two methyl groups are disordered over two orientations and were refined using a split model.
5-(4-Fluorophenyl)-2H-pyrazol-1-ium 2,2,2-trifluoroacetate
Authors: Yamuna Thammarse S. , Jasinski Jerry P. , Kaur Manpreet , Anderson Brian J. , Yathirajan H. S.
Published: March 2014

The title salt, C9H8FN2+·C2F3O2−, crystallizes with two independent cations (AandB) and two independent anions (CandD) in the asymmetric unit. In the cations, the dihedral angles between the benzene and pyrazolium rings are 23.7 (3)° in cationAand 1.8 (8)° in cationB. In the crystal, each anion links to the two cationsviaN—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming a U-shaped unit with anR44(14) ring motif. These U-shaped units stack along theaaxis and are linkedviaC—H...O and C—H...F hydrogen bonds, forming slabs lying parallel to (100). Within the slabs there are π–π interactions between the pyrazolium rings [inter-centroid distance = 3.6326 (15) Å] and between the benzene rings [inter-centroid distance = 3.7244 (16) Å]. In the anions, the F atoms of the trifluoromethyl groups are disordered over two sets of sites, with refined occupancy ratios of 0.58 (3):0.42, 0.540 (14):0.46 (14), and 0.55 (2):0.45 (2) for anionC, and 0.73 (5):0.27 (5), 0.63 (5):0.37 (5), and 0.57 (8):0.43 (8) for anionD.
Methyl 2-((2Z,5Z)-4-oxo-3-phenyl-2-{2-[(1E)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalen-1-ylidene]hydrazin-1-ylidene}-1,3-thiazolidin-5-ylidene)acetate
Authors: Mague Joel T. , Akkurt Mehmet , Mohamed Shaaban K. , Hassan Alaa A. , Albayati Mustafa R.
Published: March 2014

In the title compound, C22H19N3O3S, the six-membered ring of the 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene ring system adopts an envelope conformation with the central CH2C atom as the flap. The molecular conformation is stabilized by an S...O contact, forming a pseudo-five-membered ring. In the crystal, molecules are linkedviaC—H...O hydrogen bonds into chains propagating along [102].
N-(6-Chloro-1-methyl-1H-imidazo[4,5-c]pyridin-4-yl)benzenesulfonamide
Authors: Devaru Venkatesh B. , Katagi K. S. , Kotresh O. , Arunkashi H. K. , Devarajegowda H. C.
Published: March 2014

The asymmetric unit of the title compound, C13H11ClN4O2S, contains two molecules (AandB), in which the dihedral angles between the 1H-imidazo[4,5-c]pyridine system and terminal phenyl ring are 80.83 (10) and 62.34 (1)°. In the crystal,A–Bdimers are linked by pairs of N—H...N hydrogen bonds, which generateR22(10) loops. The dimers are linked by C—H...O and C—H...Cl interactions, generating a three-dimensional network. Aromatic π–π stacking interactions [shortest centroid–centroid distance = 3.5211 (12) Å] are also observed.
catena-Poly[[di-tert-butyltin(IV)]-μ-oxalato]
Authors: Reichelt Martin , Reuter Hans
Published: March 2014

The title compound, [Sn(C4H9)2(C2O4)]n, an unexpected side product in the reaction of di-tert-butyltin(IV) oxide with nitric acid, represents the first diorganotin(IV) oxalate to be structurally characterized. The SnIVatom of the one-dimensional coordination polymer is located on a mirror plane and is coordinated by two chelating oxalate ions with two rather different Sn—O bond lengths of 2.150 (1) and 2.425 (1) Å, and twot-butyl groups with Sn—C bond lengths of 2.186 (2) and 2.190 (2) Å. The coordination polyhedron around the SnIVatom is a distorted tetragonal disphenoid. The centrosymmetric oxalate ion also has an asymmetric coordination geometry, as reflected by the two slightly different C—O bond lengths of 1.242 (2) and 1.269 (2) Å. The chains of the polymer propagate along theb-axis direction. Only van der Waals interactions are observed between the chains.
Dimethyl 3,3′-dimethoxybiphenyl-4,4′-dicarboxylate
Authors: Lundvall Fredrik , Wragg David Stephen , Dietzel Pascal D. C. , Fjellvåg Helmer
Published: March 2014

In the title compound, C18H18O6, the biphenyl moiety is twisted with a dihedral angle of 29.11 (10)°. The carbomethoxy groups form C—C—C—O torsion angles of −18.3 (3) and −27.7 (3)° with the attached rings, as a result of steric hindrances from the nearby methoxy groups. In the absence of stacking interactions and with no H...O contacts shorter than 2.7 Å, the packing is dominated by weaker van der Waals interactions.
2-[4-(Piperidin-1-yl)-5H-chromeno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-2-yl]phenol
Authors: Sharma Naresh , Brahmachari Goutam , Das Suvankar , Kant Rajni , Gupta Vivek K.
Published: March 2014

In the title compound, C22H21N3O2, the pyrimidine ring is essentially planar [maximum deviation = 0.018 (2) Å] and forms dihedral angles of 22.70 (8) and 0.97 (7)°, respectively, with the fused benzene ring and the hydroxy-substituted benzene ring. The piperidine ring has a chair conformation and the pyran ring has a flattened twist-boat conformation. The hydroxy group was refined as disordered over two sets of sites in a 0.702 (4):0.298 (4) ratio. The disorder corresponds to a rotation of approxomiately 180° about the C—C bond connecting the phenol group to the pyrimidine ring and hence, both the major and minor components of disorder form intramolecular O—H...N hydrogen bonds. In the crystal, pairs of weak C—H...π interactions form inversion dimers. In addition, π–π interactions are observed between the pyrimidine ring and the hydroxy-substituted benzene ring [centroid–centroid separation = 3.739 (2) Å].
Unsupervised cell identification on multidimensional X-ray fluorescence datasets
Authors: Wang Siwei , Ward Jesse , Leyffer Sven , Wild Stefan M. , Jacobsen Chris , Vogt Stefan
Published: March 2014

A novel approach to locate, identify and refine positions and whole areas of cell structures based on elemental contents measured by X-ray fluorescence microscopy is introduced. It is shown that, by initializing with only a handful of prototypical cell regions, this approach can obtain consistent identification of whole cells, even when cells are overlapping, without training by explicit annotation. It is robust both to different measurements on the same sample and to different initializations. This effort provides a versatile framework to identify targeted cellular structures from datasets too complex for manual analysis, like most X-ray fluorescence microscopy data. Possible future extensions are also discussed.
Data processing software suiteSITENNOfor coherent X-ray diffraction imaging using the X-ray free-electron laser SACLA
Authors: Sekiguchi Yuki , Oroguchi Tomotaka , Takayama Yuki , Nakasako Masayoshi
Published: March 2014

Coherent X-ray diffraction imaging is a promising technique for visualizing the structures of non-crystalline particles with dimensions of micrometers to sub-micrometers. Recently, X-ray free-electron laser sources have enabled efficient experiments in the `diffraction before destruction' scheme. Diffraction experiments have been conducted at SPring-8 Angstrom Compact free-electron LAser (SACLA) using the custom-made diffraction apparatus KOTOBUKI-1 and two multiport CCD detectors. In the experiments, ten thousands of single-shot diffraction patterns can be collected within several hours. Then, diffraction patterns with significant levels of intensity suitable for structural analysis must be found, direct-beam positions in diffraction patterns determined, diffraction patterns from the two CCD detectors merged, and phase-retrieval calculations for structural analyses performed. A software suite namedSITENNOhas been developed to semi-automatically apply the four-step processing to a huge number of diffraction data. Here, details of the algorithm used in the suite are described and the performance for approximately 9000 diffraction patterns collected from cuboid-shaped copper oxide particles reported. Using theSITENNOsuite, it is possible to conduct experiments with data processing immediately after the data collection, and to characterize the size distribution and internal structures of the non-crystalline particles.
Marketing artistic careers: Pablo Picasso as brand manager
Authors: M. Muñiz Jr Albert , Norris Toby , Alan Fine Gary
Published: March 2014

Purpose

– In recent years, scholars have begun suggesting that marketing can learn a lot from art and art history. This paper aims to build on that work by developing the proposition that successful artists are powerful brands.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using archival data and biographies, this paper explores the branding acumen of Pablo Picasso.

Findings

– Picasso maneuvered with consummate skill to assure his position in the art world. By mid-career, he had established his brand so successfully that he had the upper hand over the dealers who represented him, and his work was so sought-after that he could count on selling whatever proportion of it he chose to allow to leave his studio. In order to achieve this level of success, Picasso had to read the culture in which he operated and manage the efforts of a complex system of different intermediaries and stakeholders that was not unlike an organization. Based on an analysis of Picasso's career, the authors assert that in their management of these powerful brands, artists generate a complex, multifaceted public identity that is distinct from a product brand but shares important characteristics with corporate brands, luxury brands and cultural/iconic brands.

Originality/value

– This research extends prior work by demonstrating that having an implicit understanding of the precepts of branding is not limited to contemporary artists and by connecting the artist to emerging conceptualizations of brands, particularly the nascent literatures on cultural, complex and corporate brands.
Subdural hygroma accompanied by parenchymal and subarachnoid haemorrhage after epidural analgesia in an obstetric patient
Authors: DEL‐RIO‐VELLOSILLO M. , GARCIA‐MEDINA J. J. , FERNANDEZ‐RODRIGUEZ L. E. , MARTIN‐GIL‐PARRA R. , LOPEZ‐PEREZ J. , ALMAGRO‐NAVARRO M. J.
Published: March 2014

Background

Anaesthetists need to know the different causes of persistent headache or a change in level of consciousness following epidural analgesia for labour. Failure to recognise these neurological complications can lead to delayed diagnoses, with subsequent serious implications.

Methods

We present a patient who was re‐admitted for postural headache resulting from an unrecognised dural puncture during an epidural for pain relief while in labour. During the interview, the patient confirmed drug use (cocaine), so she was evaluated by a psychiatrist with possible post‐partum psychosis or drug withdrawal syndrome. Afterwards, the patient deteriorated neurologically, showing impaired consciousness and seizures.

Results

The cranial computed tomography showed bilateral frontoparietal subdural collections with intraparenchymal and subarachnoid haemorrhaging. She improved by burr hole drainage of subdural hygroma and a blood patch.

Conclusions

Neurological signs should alert the clinician to the possibility of subdural collection and other possible complications such as sinking of the brain in order not to delay the request for imaging tests for diagnoses and effective treatments.
Body composition in late preterm infants in the first 10 days of life and at full term
Authors: Olhager Elisabeth , Törnqvist Caroline
Published: March 2014

Aim

To investigate changes in body weight, fat‐free mass, fat mass and percentage of body fat during early life and at full‐term postconceptional age (PCA) in preterm infants born after 32 gestational weeks and before 37.

Methods

Twenty‐nine late preterm infants underwent growth and body composition assessment by air displacement plethysmography (ADP) at the age of 4 days and at full‐term PCA. In 25 of these infants, body composition was assessed three times between days four and nine of life. The preterm infants were compared with 29 full‐term infants, matched for gestational age, sex and body weight.

Results

There was a significant increase in birth weight and fat‐free mass between days four and nine of life. Preterm infants had significantly more body fat 382 ± 180 g vs 287 ± 160 g than full‐term infants at full‐term PCA. Preterm infants showed poor linear growth between birth and full‐term PCA.

Conclusion

Weight gain after the initial postnatal weight loss consists of gain in fat‐free mass. At full‐term PCA, preterm infants were stunted. When compared with full‐term new born infants matched for body weight and gestational age, preterm infants had more body fat and a higher percentage of body fat.
S‐Nitrosoglutathione improves haemodynamics in early‐onset pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Everett Thomas R. , Wilkinson Ian B. , Mahendru Amita A. , McEniery Carmel M. , Garner Stephen F. , Goodall Alison H. , Lees Christoph C.
Published: March 2014

Aims

To determine the effects of in vivo S‐nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) infusion on cardiovascular function, platelet function, proteinuria and biomarker parameters in early‐onset pre‐eclampsia.

Methods

We performed an open‐label dose‐ranging study of GSNO in early‐onset pre‐eclampsia. Six women underwent GSNO infusion whilst receiving standard therapy. The dose of GSNO was increased incrementally to 100 μg min−1 whilst maintaining blood pressure of >140/80 mmHg. Aortic augmentation index, aortic pulse wave velocity, blood pressure and maternal–fetal Doppler parameters were measured at each dose. Platelet P‐selectin, protein‐to‐creatinine ratio and soluble anti‐angiogenic factors were measured pre‐ and postinfusion.

Results

Augmentation index fell at 30 μg min−1 S‐nitrosoglutathione (−6%, 95% confidence interval 0.6 to 13%), a dose that did not affect blood pressure. Platelet P‐selectin expression was reduced [mean (interquartile range), 6.3 (4.9–7.6) vs. 4.1 (3.1–5.7)% positive, P = 0.03]. Soluble endoglin levels showed borderline reduction (P = 0.06). There was a borderline significant change in pre‐to‐postinfusion protein‐to‐creatinine ratio [mean (interquartile range), 0.37 (0.09–0.82) vs. 0.23 (0.07–0.49) g mmol−1, P = 0.06]. Maternal uterine and fetal Doppler pulsatility indices were unchanged.

Conclusions

In early‐onset pre‐eclampsia, GSNO reduces augmentation index, a biomarker of small vessel tone and pulse wave reflection, prior to affecting blood pressure. Proteinuria and platelet activation are improved at doses that affect blood pressure minimally. These effects of GSNO may be of therapeutic potential in pre‐eclampsia, a condition for which no specific treatment exists. Clinical studies of GSNO in early‐onset pre‐eclampsia will determine whether these findings translate to improvement in maternal and/or fetal outcome.
Neurogenic Contraction Induced by the Antiarrhythmic Compound, AVE 0118, in Rat Small Mesenteric Arteries
Authors: Kun Attila , Seprényi György , Varró András , Papp Julius Gy. , Pataricza János
Published: March 2014

The purpose of this study was to investigate the vasoactivity of two inhibitors of potassium ion (K+) channels, a potential antiarrhythmic compound, AVE 0118, and 4‐aminopyridine (4‐AP). Basal and stimulated tones of rat small mesenteric arteries as well as the possible involvement of KV1.5 ion channel in the mechanism of vascular effect induced by the compounds were analysed. The standard organ bath technique for vascular tone and immunohistochemistry for the localization of ion channels in the arterial tissue were performed. Third‐ or fourth‐order branch of arterial segments was mounted in myographs for recording the isometric tension. AVE 0118 (10−5 M) and 4‐AP (10−5 M) modulated neither the basal tone nor the contraction induced by noradrenaline but increased the contraction evoked by electrical field stimulation, sensitive to the block of alpha‐1 adrenergic receptors. KV1.5 ion channel‐specific immunostaining demonstrated the presence of immunoreactive nerves, and Schwann‐cell‐specific (S100) immunostaining confirmed the presence of myelin sheath in rat small mesenteric arteries. The study supports an indirect, sympathetic effect of AVE 0118 similar to that of 4‐AP, which is mediated, at least in part, by blocking neuronal KV1.5 type potassium ion channels in the medio‐adventitial layer of rat small mesenteric artery.
Whole exome analysis identifies dominant COL4A1 mutations in patients with complex ocular phenotypes involving microphthalmia
Authors: Deml B. , Reis L.M. , Maheshwari M. , Griffis C. , Bick D. , Semina E.V.
Published: March 2014

Anophthalmia/microphthalmia (A/M) is a developmental ocular malformation defined as complete absence or reduction in size of the eye. A/M is a heterogenous disorder with numerous causative genes identified; however, about half the cases lack a molecular diagnosis. We undertook whole exome sequencing in an A/M family with two affected siblings, two unaffected siblings, and unaffected parents; the ocular phenotype was isolated with only mild developmental delay/learning difficulties reported and a normal brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the proband at 16 months. No pathogenic mutations were identified in 71 known A/M genes. Further analysis identified a shared heterozygous mutation in COL4A1, c.2317G>A, p.(Gly773Arg) that was not seen in the unaffected parents and siblings. Analysis of 24 unrelated A/M exomes identified a novel c.2122G>A, p.(Gly708Arg) mutation in an additional patient with unilateral microphthalmia, bilateral microcornea and Peters anomaly; the mutation was absent in the unaffected mother and the unaffected father was not available. Mutations in COL4A1 have been linked to a spectrum of human disorders; the most consistent feature is cerebrovascular disease with variable ocular anomalies, kidney and muscle defects. This study expands the spectrum of COL4A1 phenotypes and indicates screening in patients with A/M regardless of MRI findings or presumed inheritance pattern.
Effect of Platform Shift on Crestal Bone Levels and Mucosal Profile Following Flap Surgery and Subcrestal Implant Placement in Presence/Absence of Gap Defects
Authors: Wenzel Brent A. , Gamborena Inãki , Lee Jaebum , Fiorini Tiago , Schüpbach Peter , Wikesjö Ulf ME , Susin Cristiano
Published: March 2014

Background

Physiologic remodeling resulting in crestal bone loss appears a common corollary to dental implant surgery. Several hypotheses and clinical strategies have been advanced to explain and avert crestal remodeling; however, causative mechanisms remain unclear and the efficacy of clinical protocols uncertain.

Purpose

The objective of the present study was to provide a histologic account of crestal bone levels and mucosal profile at implant sites receiving platform shift/switch and standard abutments following conventional flap surgery and subcrestal implant placement in presence or absence of crestal gap defects using a dog model.

Materials and Methods

Four dental implants were placed into the left/right edentulated posterior mandible in five adult male Hound Labrador mongrel dogs using flap surgery including subcrestal placement with/without a 1 × 5 mm (width × depth) gap defect, and using platform shift/switch and standard abutments. Block biopsies were collected for histological/histometric analysis following an 8‐week healing interval.

Results

No significant differences in crestal resorption were observed among experimental groups; crestal resorption being significantly more advanced at buccal than at lingual sites (p < .001). Similarly, crestal bone‐implant contact was not significantly different among groups; crestal bone‐implant contact being consistently below the implant platform at buccal sites (p < .01). Moreover, the peri‐implant mucosal profile was not statistically different among groups, the mucosal height being significantly greater at buccal than at lingual sites (p < .001). Also, no significant differences among groups were observed for the apical extension of the epithelial attachment, the epithelial attachment being arrested more than 2 mm above the implant platform at both platform shift/switch and standard abutments.

Conclusions

Using a clinical strategy including flap surgery and subcrestal implant placement, implant technology comparing platform shift/switch with standard abutments, surgical approach, and abutment selection seems to have a limited impact on crestal remodeling, associated bone loss, and mucosal profile.
Contact and photocontact allergy to octocrylene: a review
Authors: de Groot Anton C. , Roberts David W.
Published: March 2014

Octocrylene is an ultraviolet (UV)BandUVAIIabsorber that was introduced some 15 years ago, and is now widely used in sunscreen agents and skin care cosmetics. Since 2003, several studies, notably fromFrance,Belgium,Spain, andItaly, have reported an increasing number of patients with photocontact allergy to octocrylene. This reaction is seen mainly in adult patients who have previously used topical products containing the non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug ketoprofen. Photosensitization to ketoprofen leads, in many cases, to photocontact allergy to octocrylene; the mechanism of this reaction is unknown. Contact allergy to octocrylene also occurs, but is far less frequent, and is seen, in most cases, in children, resulting from the use of octocrylene‐containing sunscreen products. In this article, (photo)contact allergy to octocrylene is fully reviewed.
Productive Failure in Learning Math
Authors: Kapur Manu
Published: March 2014

When learning a new math concept, should learners be first taught the concept and its associated procedures and then solve problems, or solve problems first even if it leads to failure and then be taught the concept and the procedures? Two randomized‐controlled studies found that both methods lead to high levels of procedural knowledge. However, students who engaged in problem solving before being taught demonstrated significantly greater conceptual understanding and ability to transfer to novel problems than those who were taught first. The second study further showed that when given an opportunity to learn from the failed problem‐solving attempts of their peers, students outperformed those who were taught first, but not those who engaged in problem solving first. Process findings showed that the number of student‐generated solutions significantly predicted learning outcomes. These results challenge the conventional practice of direct instruction to teach new math concepts and procedures, and propose the possibility of learning from one's own failed problem‐solving attempts or those of others before receiving instruction as alternatives for better math learning.
Cutaneous scalp metastases from retroperitoneal leiomyosarcoma: a case report
Authors: Baltz Rebekah G. , Kaley Jennifer R. , Hull Cheryl A. , Gardner Jerad M.
Published: March 2014

A 71‐year‐old woman presented with five scalp nodules that were clinically suspicious for pilar cysts. Histopathologic examination showed a proliferation of mitotically active pleomorphic spindle cells arranged into intersecting fascicles in the dermis and subcutis. Tumor cells displayed deeply eosinophilic cytoplasm and expressed desmin but were negative for S100 protein by immunohistochemistry. Before 10 years, the patient was diagnosed with high‐grade retroperitoneal leiomyosarcoma and underwent resection with intraoperative radiation. Metastatic disease involving the lungs, liver and soft tissue developed, requiring treatment with resections, radiation and chemotherapy. Owing to the presentation of multiple scalp nodules with microscopic features of leiomyosarcoma in conjunction with the clinical history of retroperitoneal leiomyosarcoma, a diagnosis of metastatic leiomyosarcoma was made. Scalp metastasis from retroperitoneal leiomyosarcoma is extremely rare and portends a poor prognosis. To our knowledge, only two other cases have been reported in the English literature, and a further search discovered only nine additional cases of scalp metastasis from soft tissue leiomyosarcoma of any non‐gynecologic anatomic site. This case highlights the striking microscopic similarity between primary cutaneous and metastatic leiomyosarcoma and illustrates the necessity of adequate clinical information and an appropriate index of suspicion in excluding the possibility of cutaneous metastases of leiomyosarcoma from somatic soft tissue.
A species‐centered approach for uncovering generalities in organism responses to habitat loss and fragmentation
Authors: Betts Matthew G. , Fahrig Lenore , Hadley Adam S. , Halstead Katherine E. , Bowman Jeff , Robinson W. Douglas , Wiens John A. , Lindenmayer David B.
Published: March 2014

Theoretical models predict strong influences of habitat loss and fragmentation on species distributions and demography, but empirical studies have shown relatively inconsistent support across species and systems. We argue that species’ responses to landscape‐scale habitat loss and fragmentation are likely to appear less idiosyncratic if it is recognized that species perceive the same landscapes in different ways. We present a new quantitative approach that uses species distribution models (SDMs) to measure landscapes (e.g. patch size, isolation, matrix amount) from the perspective of individual species. First, we briefly summarize the few efforts to date demonstrating that once differences in habitat distributions are controlled, consistencies in species’ responses to landscape structure emerge. Second, we present a detailed example providing step‐by‐step methods for application of a species‐centered approach using freely available land‐cover data and recent statistical modeling approaches. Third, we discuss pitfalls in current applications of the approach and recommend avenues for future developments. We conclude that the species‐centered approach offers considerable promise as a means to test whether sensitivity to habitat loss and fragmentation is mediated by phylogenetic, ecological, and life‐history traits. Cross‐species generalities in responses to habitat loss and fragmentation will be challenging to uncover unless landscape mosaics are defined using models that reflect differing species‐specific distributions, functional connectivity, and domains of scale. The emergence of such generalities would not only enhance scientific understanding of biotic processes driving fragmentation effects, but would allow managers to estimate species sensitivities in new regions.
Large‐scale, seasonal habitat use and movements of yellow American eels in the St. Lawrence River revealed by acoustic telemetry
Authors: Béguer‐Pon Mélanie , Castonguay Martin , Benchetrit José , Hatin Daniel , Legault Michel , Verreault Guy , Mailhot Yves , Tremblay Valérie , Dodson Julian J.
Published: March 2014

Large‐scale habitat use and movements of yellow American eels (Anguilla rostrata) from the St. Lawrence River were examined using acoustic telemetry from early summer to late fall in 2010 and 2011. Sixty‐seven eels were tagged, and their passage or presence was recorded using fixed acoustic arrays covering a 400 km distance along the St. Lawrence River and Estuary. Sixty‐four per cent of the 67 tagged eels were detected. Most eels were detected at only one array; the closest to their release location and at several occasions during the tracking period, suggesting a high proportion of freshwater residency in the upstream part of the St. Lawrence River. Downstream movements towards the brackish estuary (63–418 km distance) were demonstrated for 16.4% of the eels, particularly for those caught at the most downstream site that is close to the brackish estuary. Our results strongly suggest a lower activity of freshwater resident yellow eels during summer, a behaviour that may be related to day length, which defines time available for their nocturnal foraging. Indeed, yellow eels were detected primarily at night; no effect of moon phase was revealed. Movements in the vicinity of arrays (up to 116 km in the fluvial estuary) were suggested and smaller‐scale movements within Lac St. Louis were demonstrated, highlighting a yellow‐eel home range far more extensive than previously reported in smaller systems. Evidence for within‐season homing and site fidelity is also reported.
Trophic interactions between introduced lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) and native Arctic charr (S. alpinus) in a large Fennoscandian subarctic lake
Authors: Eloranta Antti P. , Nieminen Petri , Kahilainen Kimmo K.
Published: March 2014

Introduced fishes may have major impacts on community structure and ecosystem function due to competitive and predatory interactions with native species. For example, introduced lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) has been shown to replace native salmonids and induce major trophic cascades in some North American lakes, but few studies have investigated trophic interactions between lake trout and closely related native Arctic charr (S. alpinus) outside the natural distribution of the former species. We used stomach content and stable isotope analyses to investigate trophic interactions between introduced lake trout and native Arctic charr in large subarctic Lake Inarijärvi in northern Finland. Both salmonids had predominantly piscivorous diets at >280 mm total length and were mainly caught from the deep profundal zone. However, lake trout had a more generalist diet and showed higher reliance on littoral prey fish than Arctic charr, whose diet consisted mainly of pelagic planktivorous coregonids. According to length at age and condition data, lake trout showed slightly faster growth but lower condition than Arctic charr. The results indicate that introduced lake trout may to some extent compete with and prey upon native Arctic charr, but currently have only a minor if any impact on native fishes and food web structure in Inarijärvi. Future monitoring is essential to observe potential changes in trophic interactions between lake trout and Arctic charr in Inarijärvi, as well as in other European lakes where the two salmonids currently coexist.
Identification and molecular characterization of 16SrV group phytoplasmas with flowering cherry in China
Authors: Wang L.‐P. , Hong N. , Xu W.‐X. , Wang Y.‐F. , Chofong G.‐N. , Martini M. , Su J.‐M. , Wang G.‐P.
Published: March 2014

Flowering cherry (Prunus serrulata) trees showing symptoms of excessive axillary growth, stunting, short internodes and decline were observed in Yantai City, Shandong province, China. The samples with the flowering cherry decline were designated as FcD‐YT phytoplasma. Sequencing results, restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) and phylogenetic analysis of sequences from the 1248‐bp R16F2n⁄R16R2 products and partial ribosomal protein operon genes revealed the FcD‐YT phytoplasma as a member of subgroup 16SrV‐B, rpV‐C. Two RFLP patterns were observed in recombinant colonies from the cloned 16S rDNA gene with endonucleases HpaII and MseI. To our knowledge, this is the first report of 16SrV group phytoplasma declining flowering cherry trees in China.
Soil carbon stock change following afforestation in Northern Europe: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Bárcena T. G. , Kiær L. P. , Vesterdal L. , Stefánsdóttir H. M. , Gundersen P. , Sigurdsson B. D.
Published: March 2014

Northern Europe supports large soil organic carbon (SOC) pools and has been subjected to high frequency of land‐use changes during the past decades. However, this region has not been well represented in previous large‐scale syntheses of land‐use change effects on SOC, especially regarding effects of afforestation. Therefore, we conducted a meta‐analysis of SOC stock change following afforestation in Northern Europe. Response ratios were calculated for forest floors and mineral soils (0–10 cm and 0–20/30 cm layers) based on paired control (former land use) and afforested plots. We analyzed the influence of forest age, former land‐use, forest type, and soil textural class. Three major improvements were incorporated in the meta‐analysis: analysis of major interaction groups, evaluation of the influence of nonindependence between samples according to study design, and mass correction. Former land use was a major factor contributing to changes in SOC after afforestation. In former croplands, SOC change differed between soil layers and was significantly positive (20%) in the 0–10 cm layer. Afforestation of former grasslands had a small negative (nonsignificant) effect indicating limited SOC change following this land‐use change within the region. Forest floors enhanced the positive effects of afforestation on SOC, especially with conifers. Meta‐estimates calculated for the periods <30 years and >30 years since afforestation revealed a shift from initial loss to later gain of SOC. The interaction group analysis indicated that meta‐estimates in former land‐use, forest type, and soil textural class alone were either offset or enhanced when confounding effects among variable classes were considered. Furthermore, effect sizes were slightly overestimated if sample dependence was not accounted for and if no mass correction was performed. We conclude that significant SOC sequestration in Northern Europe occurs after afforestation of croplands and not grasslands, and changes are small within a 30‐year perspective.
Clinical significance of pretreatment serum interferon‐gamma‐inducible protein 10 concentrations in chronic hepatitis C patients treated with telaprevir‐based triple therapy
Authors: Nishikawa Hiroki , Enomoto Hirayuki , Nasu Akihiro , Aizawa Nobuhiro , Saito Masaki , Tamori Akihiro , Kawada Norifumi , Kimura Toru , Osaki Yukio , Nishiguchi Shuhei
Published: March 2014

Aim

We aimed to determine whether pretreatment serum interferon‐γ‐inducible protein (IP)‐10 concentration can predict response to telaprevir (TVR)‐based triple therapy in patients with genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C (CHC), and to examine the effects of IP‐10 concentration on liver histology.

Methods

Baseline IP‐10 concentrations were measured in 97 patients with genotype 1 CHC treated with TVR‐based triple therapy, and the associations between baseline IP‐10 and treatment outcome were assessed by univariate and multivariate analyses. Associations between baseline serum IP‐10 concentration and laboratory data and liver histological findings were also investigated.

Results

Median IP‐10 concentration in these patients was 461.83 pg/mL (range, 151.35–4297.62). Multivariate analysis showed that IL28B genotype (P = 0.025) and IP‐10 level (P = 0.004) were factors significantly predictive of rapid virological response (RVR), whereas in pretreatment factors only, IL28B genotype (P = 0.001) and liver fibrosis (P = 0.035) were independent predictors of sustained virological response. Using a cut‐off IP‐10 concentration of 460 pg/mL, patients with IL28B risk allele and low IP‐10 had a significantly higher RVR rate than those with high IP‐10 (P = 0.005). IP‐10 concentration was significantly correlated with liver fibrosis (P = 0.001) and inflammation activity (P = 0.006) and had the highest areas under the curve for liver histological findings.

Conclusion

Baseline serum IP‐10 level is a useful predictor of virological response in patients with genotype 1 CHC treated with TVR‐based triple therapy, especially in patients with IL28B risk allele. IP‐10 was well correlated with liver fibrosis and inflammation.
Should older patients be offered varicocoele correction to improve their fertility?
Authors: Ollandini G. , Trombetta C. , Mazzon G. , de Concilio B. , Bucci S. , Pavan N. , Belgrano E. , Liguori G.
Published: March 2014

We reviewed a large number of patients from 2000 to 2010 that underwent varicocoele correction using the retrograde sclerotization approach. Three hundred and seventy‐six of them were included in the study, as they met the inclusion criteria. Mean age at the time of surgery was 32 years (SD: 6.5); 32% of them were 35 years and older. Patients were classified according to the clinical classification (GC) and Sarteschi's Doppler ultrasound classification (GS). The patients showed up at the clinic after an average time of 30 months of referred infertility related (SD: 28.54). Patients underwent pre‐operative assessment with physical examination, sperm analysis and Doppler ultrasound, and again the same assessment at least 3 months after surgery. We evaluated the following parameters: sperm concentration (millions/mL, CONC), percentage motility (a+b, MOT) and the percentage of morphologically typical spermatozoa (MOR). Univariate and Multivariate analysis were performed. The research of Pearson's coefficients was performed to test the correlation between sperm parameters and age, SG, CG. Semen specimens were evaluated according to WHO 1999 criteria. Mean CONC varied from 34.5 to 47.0 millions/mL (+12.5; p < 0.001); MOT from 27.2 to 34.5% (+7.3%; p < 0.001); and MOR from 44.0 to 47.6% (+3.6%; p = 0.001). Univariable and multivariable analysis of variance related to age showed no significant difference of parameters improvement. Pearson's correlation coefficient for pre‐operative and post‐operative sperm MOT related to patients' age was respectively −0.11 (p < 0.001) and −0.18 (p = 0.04). No other significance was found. Usefulness of treating infertile patients affected by varicocoele is confirmed: varicocoele correction leads to significant sperm parameters improvement. There is no evidence of different improvement related to patients' age. The decline in sperm motility related to age of the patients seems to be only age‐dependent: the usefulness of treating patients affected by varicocoele is not influenced by their age: treatment should also be offered to older patients.
Clinical and treatment characteristics determining therapeutic outcome in patients undergoing autologous non‐cultured outer root sheath hair follicle cell suspension for treatment of stable vitiligo
Authors: Vinay K. , Dogra S. , Parsad D. , Kanwar A.J. , Kumar R. , Minz R.W. , Saikia U.N.
Published: March 2014

Background

Autologous non‐cultured outer root sheath hair follicle cell suspension (NCORSHFS) is a recently described novel cellular graft technique for the treatment of stable vitiligo. There is lack of data about various factors determining the repigmentation rate in vitiligo patients undergoing this novel surgical therapy.

Objective

To study the clinical characteristics and treatment variables determining therapeutic outcome in patients of stable vitiligo undergoing NCORSHFS.

Methods

Non‐cultured outer root sheath hair follicle cell suspension was prepared from anagen hairs extracted from the occipital area. The number of melanocytes and hair follicle stem cells (HFSC) in the suspension was quantified by staining with anti‐HMB45 and anti‐CD200 antibody, respectively. In all patients, a 2 mm punch skin biopsy was taken from one of the vitiligo patch to be treated prior to surgery for assessment of histomorphological features. Post surgery patients were followed up at regular intervals for 24 weeks.

Results

Thirty patients (21 females, 9 males) with a clinical diagnosis of stable vitiligo, with a total of 60 target lesions were included in this study. The mean age of the study population was 21.10 ± 5.64 years. The number of melanocytes (P = 0.04) and HFSC (P = 0.01) transplanted were significantly higher among patients achieving optimum repigmentation (>75% repigmentation). There was a strong correlation between repigmentation at 24 week and number of melanocytes and HFSC transplanted. Number of HFSC transplanted and absence of dermal inflammation were significant predictors of achieving optimum repigmentation.

Conclusion

The number of melanocytes and HFSC transplanted and absence of dermal inflammation were important determents of optimal repigmentation in patients undergoing NCORSHFS for treatment of stable vitiligo. Hence, refining the technique of NCORSHFS on the basis of these factors would help in achieving better surgical outcomes.
Changes in nuclear morphology and chromatin texture of basal keratinocytes in melasma
Authors: Brianezi G. , Handel A.C. , Schmitt J.V. , Miot L.D.B. , Miot H.A.
Published: March 2014

Background

The pathogenesis of melasma and the role of keratinocytes in disease development and maintenance are not completely understood. Dermal abnormalities, the expression of inflammatory mediators, growth factors, epithelial expression of melanocortin and sexual hormones receptors suggest that not only melanocytes, but entire epidermal melanin unit is involved in melasma physiopathology.

Objectives

To compare nuclear morphological features and chromatin texture between basal keratinocytes in facial melasma and adjacent normal skin.

Methods

We took facial skin biopsies (2 mm melasma and adjacent normal skin) from women processed for haematoxylin and eosin. Thirty non‐overlapping basal keratinocyte nuclei were segmented and descriptors of area, highest diameter, perimeter, circularity, pixel intensity, profilometric index (Ra) and fractal dimension were extracted using ImageJ software.

Results

Basal keratinocyte nuclei from facial melasma epidermis displayed larger size, irregular shape, hyperpigmentation and chromatin heterogeneity by fractal dimension than perilesional skin.

Conclusion

Basal keratinocytes from facial melasma display changes in nuclear form and chromatin texture, suggesting that the phenotype differences between melasma and adjacent facial skin can result from complete epidermal melanin unit alterations, not just hypertrophic melanocytes.
Clinical presentations of patients from different age cohorts with biliary tract stone diseases
Authors: Hu Kuang‐Chun , Wang Horng‐Yuan , Chang Wen‐Hsiung , Chu Cheng‐Hsin , Lin Shee‐Chan , Liu Chun‐Jen , Wu Ming‐Shiang , Shih Shou‐Chuan
Published: March 2014

Background and Aim

The role of clinical symptoms, transabdominal ultrasound scan (USS), and liver function tests (LFTs) in evaluating common bile duct (CBD) stones in patients suspected to have pancreatobiliary disease has been studied. However, it is unclear whether these predictive models are useful in different age cohorts. The aim of this study is to investigate the clinical presentations from different age cohorts with and without CBD stones.

Methods

Four hundred and forty‐three patients with pancreatobiliary diseases were divided into cohorts according to decades as follows: young (Y, 18–64 years old, n = 143), young‐old (YO, 65–74 years old, n = 168), old‐old (OO, 75–84 years old, n = 97), and very old (VO, ≥ 85 years old, n = 35). The clinical symptoms, LFTs, and USS findings were demonstrated and compared among patients.

Results

Y‐ and YO‐group patients were more likely to develop symptoms such as biliary colic in the presence of CBD stones. The proportion of abnormal serum aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase were significantly greater in Y‐, YO‐, and OO‐group patients with than in those without CBD stones. Sensitivity of USS for CBD stones in Y: 0.15; YO: 0.45; OO: 0.57; and VO: 0.68. Accuracy of USS for detected CBD stone in Y: 48%; YO: 62.5%; OO: 70.1%; and VO: 71.4%.

Conclusion

Combined evaluation of clinical symptoms, biochemical and USS findings may help predict the presence of CBD stones. In Y, YO, and OO patients with CBD stones, the incidences of abnormal LFTs were higher. The sensitivity and accuracy of USS in detecting CBD stones were increased according to age.
Adolescent–Parent Relations in Asian Indian and Salvadoran Immigrant Families: A Cultural–Developmental Analysis of Autonomy, Authority, Conflict, and Cohesion
Authors: Jensen Lene Arnett , Dost‐Gözkan Ayfer
Published: March 2014

From a cultural perspective, this study addressed the two developmental theories that adolescents want more autonomy and fewer parental rules than parents consider appropriate, and that discrepancy between adolescents and parents on views of autonomy and authority result in decreased cohesion and increased conflict. The study included 100 adolescent–parent dyads who were immigrants to the United States from El Salvador and India. While findings pointed to cross‐cultural commonalities, such as autonomy seeking among adolescents, they also highlighted the importance of culture to different meanings of autonomy and the limits of the discrepancy thesis. The discussion calls for future scholarship to include concepts of salience to diverse groups such as family interdependence and appreciation for the parental immigrant experience.
Lansoprazole enhances the antidiabetic effect of sitagliptin in mice with diet-induced obesity and healthy human subjects
Authors: Hao ShaoJun , Sun JianHua , Tian XiKui , Sun Xu , Zhang ZhenXing , Gao Yuan
Published: March 2014

Objectives

Proton pump inhibitors as adjunctive therapy would improve diabetes control and could enhance the hypoglycaemic activity of DPP-4 inhibitors. The aim of the study was to investigate the short-term effects of lansoprazole (LPZ), sitagliptin (SITA) and their combination therapy on glucose regulation and gut peptide secretion.

Methods

Glucose and gut peptide were determined and compared after short-term administration of LPZ or SITA, or in combination to mice with diet-induced obesity (DIO) and to healthy human subjects (n = 16) in a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) by a crossover design.

Key findings

In DIO mice, LPZ significantly improve glucose metabolism, increase plasma C-peptide and insulin compared with vehicle treatment. Furthermore, the combination of LPZ and SITA improved glucose tolerance additively, with higher plasma insulin and C-peptide levels compared with SITA-treated mice. Similarly, in human in the OGTT, the combination showed significant improvement in glucose-lowering and insulin increase vs SITA-treated group. However, no significant differences in area under curve (AUC) of insulin, glucose and C-peptide between the LPZ-treated group and baseline, except that mean AUCgastrin was significantly increased by LPZ.

Conclusions

LPZ and SITA combination therapy appears to have complementary mechanisms of action and additive antidiabetic effect.