bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Halorhabdus tiamatea: proteogenomics and glycosidase activity measurements identify the first cultivated euryarchaeon from a deep‐sea anoxic brine lake as potential polysaccharide degrader
Authors: Werner Johannes , Ferrer Manuel , Michel Gurvan , Mann Alexander J. , Huang Sixing , Juarez Silvia , Ciordia Sergio , Albar Juan P. , Alcaide María , La Cono Violetta , Yakimov Michail M. , Antunes André , Taborda Marco , da Costa Milton S. , Hai Tran , Glöckner Frank Oliver , Golyshina Olga V. , Golyshin Peter N. , Teeling Hanno ,   The MAMBA Consortium
Published: January 2014

Euryarchaea from the genus Halorhabdus have been found in hypersaline habitats worldwide, yet are represented by only two isolates: Halorhabdus utahensis AX‐2T from the shallow Great Salt Lake of Utah, and Halorhabdus tiamatea SARL4BT from the Shaban deep‐sea hypersaline anoxic lake (DHAL) in the Red Sea. We sequenced the H. tiamatea genome to elucidate its niche adaptations. Among sequenced archaea, H. tiamatea features the highest number of glycoside hydrolases, the majority of which were expressed in proteome experiments. Annotations and glycosidase activity measurements suggested an adaptation towards recalcitrant algal and plant‐derived hemicelluloses. Glycosidase activities were higher at 2% than at 0% or 5% oxygen, supporting a preference for low‐oxygen conditions. Likewise, proteomics indicated quinone‐mediated electron transport at 2% oxygen, but a notable stress response at 5% oxygen. Halorhabdus tiamatea furthermore encodes proteins characteristic for thermophiles and light‐dependent enzymes (e.g. bacteriorhodopsin), suggesting that H. tiamatea evolution was mostly not governed by a cold, dark, anoxic deep‐sea habitat. Using enrichment and metagenomics, we could demonstrate presence of similar glycoside hydrolase‐rich Halorhabdus members in the Mediterranean DHAL Medee, which supports that Halorhabdus species can occupy a distinct niche as polysaccharide degraders in hypersaline environments.
Converging on euroscepticism: Online polity contestation duringEuropeanParliament elections
Authors: de Wilde Pieter , Michailidou Asimina , Trenz Hans‐Jörg
Published: January 2014

Does the increasing politicisation ofEurope signify a step towards the legitimation of theUnion? This could be the case if the increased public intensity of debate and polarisation of opinion brought about by politicisation do not fragment the audience and if arguments presented in public are sufficiently clear about the desired nature of the polity. To answer this question, the focus of this article is on dynamic contestation in the public sphere using original data of news platforms and political blogs in 12EU MemberStates and transnational websites during theEuropeanParliament election campaign of 2009. The results are, first, that diffuse eurosceptic evaluations dominate public debates despite large variation in the intensity of debate acrossMemberStates. Second, a majority of evaluations made, particularly those by citizens leaving comments online, are negative in all countries included in this study. A gap between elites and citizens persists, but it appears less pronounced than often proclaimed in the literature. And third, democracy is a primary concern inEUpolity contestation, especially for those evaluating theEUnegatively. Although little evidence is found of a fragmentation of audiences, the prominence of diffuse euroscepticism poses a major challenge to legitimation of theUnion.
An endoscopic overview of the anterior vitreous base in retinal detachment and anterior proliferative vitreoretinopathy
Authors: Boscher Claude , Kuhn Ferenc
Published: January 2014

Purpose

Anterior proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) is an important cause of persistent or recurrent retinal detachment (RD). Endoscopy provides 360° panoramic viewing of the vitreous cavity and high‐magnification viewing of the anterior vitreous base (AVB). This study describes the ‘in vivo’ anatomy and pathoanatomy of the AVB using an ocular endoscope in RD and anterior PVR.

Methods

An intraoperative analysis of over 2000 consecutive eyes undergoing vitrectomy for RD operated with endoscopy‐assisted vitrectomy was performed. It was recorded in notes dictated during surgery and in standardized operative reports. Around 1500 surgical videotapes, with the exclusion of diabetic retinopathy and trauma, selected by reviewing the OR reports and notes were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Seven endoscopic criteria associated with anterior PVR complicating RD are described: ‘en bloc’ stiff anterior vitreous retraction, ciliary detachment, seeding of the AVB by abundant pigmented and/or white granulations, anterior tissue displacement, stiff ‘wrinkling’ at the vitreoretinal juncture, persistent shallow ciliary/RD under perfluorocarbon liquids and traction‐related retinal surface haemorrhages. Causes responsible for failure of conventional vitrectomy for RD are highlighted. Findings in case of hypotony and cyclitic membranes are described.

Conclusions

Endoscopy is a significant adjunct to our understanding of the development of anterior loop traction by obviating the two constitutive parts of the AVB, anterior and posterior, their interconnections and their respective connections to the anterior segment and to the retina. It provides a unique evaluation and thorough eradication of the anterior vitreous cortex as a scaffold for anterior PVR. It might be an adjunct to the prevention of anterior PVR.
Effect of expanded cottonseed meal on laying performance, egg quality, concentrations of free gossypol in tissue, serum and egg of laying hens
Authors: Yuan Chao , Song Hua‐hui , Zhang Xiao‐yun , Jiang Yuan‐jing , Zhang Ai‐ting , Azzam Mahmoud Mostafa , Zou Xiao‐ting
Published: January 2014

Three hundred and sixty Hy‐Line Brown hens, 40 week of age, were allocated to five treatments, each of which included four replicates of 18 hens. After an expanded process of cottonseed meal (CSM), free gossypol content in CSM was decreased from 1.24 to 0.40 g/kg. The dietary treatments were corn‐soybean meal based diets including 6% CSM and 6%, 8% and 10% expanded cottonseed meal (ECSM). Hens fed 8% ECSM had higher (P < 0.05) laying rate and average egg weight than those fed 6% CSM. The albumen height and Haugh unit in the control group, 6% and 8% ECSM groups were superior (P < 0.05) to other treatments. Hens fed 6% CSM resulted in severe (P < 0.05) egg yolk discoloration. Free gossypol (FG) concentrations in yolk and albumen and tissues of the 6% CSM group were greater (P < 0.05) than those in any ECSM treatments. Hens fed 6% CSM and 10% ECSM had the highest (P < 0.05) FG concentrations in the liver compared with those in the kidney and muscle, and higher (P < 0.05) FG residues in yolk than those in albumen. In conclusion, FG in CSM can be reduced by 68% through an expanded process and ECSM can be available in laying hens at up to 10% of the total diet and an appropriate replacement of soybean meal with ECSM may improve performance in laying hens.
Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation for severe sickle cell disease in childhood: a single centre experience of 50 patients
Authors: Dedeken Laurence , Lê Phu Q. , Azzi Nadira , Brachet Cécile , Heijmans Catherine , Huybrechts Sophie , Devalck Christine , Rozen Laurence , Ngalula Malou , Ferster Alina
Published: January 2014

Despite improvements in medical management, sickle cell disease (SCD) remains associated with severe morbidity and decreased survival. Allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) remains the only curative approach. We report the outcome of 50 consecutive children with severe SCD that received HSCT in our unit between November 1988 and April 2013. The stem cell source was bone marrow (n = 39), cord blood (n = 3), bone marrow and cord blood (n = 7) and peripheral blood stem cells (n = 1). All patients had ≥1 severe manifestation: 37 presented with recurrent vaso‐occlusive crises/acute chest syndrome, 27 cerebral vasculopathy and 1 nephropathy. The conditioning regimen consisted of busulfan + cyclophosphamide (BuCy) before November 1991 and BuCy + rabbit antithymocyte globulin after that date. Since 1995, all patients have been treated with hydroxycarbamide (HC) prior to transplantation for a median duration of 2·7 years. Median age at transplantation and median follow‐up was 8·3 and 7·7 years, respectively. Acute graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) and chronic GVHD were observed in 11 and 10 patients, respectively. An excellent outcome was achieved, with 8‐year overall survival and event‐free survival (EFS) rates of 94·1% and 85·6%, respectively. Since HC introduction, no graft failure occurred and EFS reached 97·4%. Prior treatment with HC may have contributed to successful engraftment.
Enlarging the Nosological Spectrum of Hereditary Diffuse Leukoencephalopathy with Axonal Spheroids (HDLS)
Authors: Hoffmann Sarah , Murrell Jill , Harms Lutz , Miller Kelly , Meisel Andreas , Brosch Thomas , Scheel Michael , Ghetti Bernardino , Goebel Hans‐Hilmar , Stenzel Werner
Published: January 2014

Hereditary diffuse leukoencephalopathy with axonal spheroids (HDLS) is an autosomal dominant disease clinically characterized by cognitive decline, personality changes, motor impairment, parkinsonism and seizures. Recently, mutations in the colony‐stimulating factor‐1 receptor (CSF1R) gene have been shown to be associated with HDLS. We report clinical, neuropathological and molecular genetic findings of patients from a new family with a mutation in the CSF1R gene. Disease onset was earlier and disease progression was more rapid compared with previously reported patients. Psychiatric symptoms including personality changes, alcohol abuse and severe depression were the first symptoms in male patients. In the index, female patient, the initial symptom was cognitive decline. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed bilateral, confluent white matter lesions in the cerebrum. Stereotactic biopsy revealed loss of myelin and microglial activation as well as macrophage infiltration of the parenchyma. Numerous axonal swellings and spheroids were present. Ultrastructural analysis revealed pigment‐containing macrophages. Axonal swellings were detected by electron microscopy not only in the central nervous system (CNS) but also in skin nerves. We identified a heterozygous mutation (c.2330G>A, p.R777Q) in the CSF1R gene. Through this report, we aim to enlarge the nosological spectrum of HDLS, providing new clinical descriptions as well as novel neuropathological findings from the peripheral nervous system.
An intracellular redox sensor for reactive oxygen species at the M3‐M4 linker of GABAAρ1 receptors
Authors: Beltrán González Andrea N , Gasulla Javier , Calvo Daniel J
Published: January 2014

Background and Purpose

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are normally involved in cell oxidative stress but also play a role as cellular messengers in redox signalling; for example, modulating the activity of neurotransmitter receptors and ion channels. However, the direct actions of ROS on GABAA receptors were not previously demonstrated. In the present work, we studied the effects of ROS on GABAAρ1 receptor function.

Experimental Approach

GABAAρ1 receptors were expressed in oocytes and GABA‐evoked responses electrophysiologically recorded in the presence or absence of ROS. Chemical protection of cysteines by selective sulfhydryl reagents and site‐directed mutagenesis studies were used to identify protein residues involved in ROS actions.

Key Results

GABAAρ1 receptor‐mediated responses were significantly enhanced in a concentration‐dependent and reversible manner by H2O2. Potentiating effects were attenuated by a free radical scavenger, lipoic acid or an inhibitor of the Fenton reaction, deferoxamine. Each ρ1 subunit contains only three cysteine residues, two extracellular at the Cys‐loop (C177 and C191) and one intracellular (C364) at the M3‐M4 linker. Mutant GABAAρ1 receptors in which C364 was exchanged by alanine were completely insensitive to modulation, implying that this site, rather than a cysteine in the Cys‐loop, is essential for ROS modulation.

Conclusion and Implications

Our results show that the function of GABAAρ1 receptors is enhanced by ROS and that the intracellular C364 is the sensor for ROS actions.
Spatio‐temporal Genetic Structure of a Tropical Bee Species Suggests High Dispersal Over a Fragmented Landscape
Authors: Suni Sevan S. , Bronstein Judith L. , Brosi Berry J.
Published: January 2014

Habitat destruction threatens biodiversity by reducing the amount of available resources and connectivity among geographic areas. For organisms living in fragmented habitats, population persistence may depend on dispersal, which maintains gene flow among fragments and can prevent inbreeding within them. It is centrally important to understand patterns of dispersal for bees living in fragmented areas given the importance of pollination systems and recently documented declines in bee populations. We used population and landscape genetic techniques to characterize patterns of dispersal over a large fragmented area in southern Costa Rica for the orchid bee species Euglossa championi. First, we estimated levels of genetic differentiation among forest fragments as ϕPT, an analog to the traditional summary statistic FST, as well as two statistics that may more adequately represent levels of differentiation, G’ST and Dest. Second, we used a Bayesian approach to determine the number and composition of genetic groups in our sample. Third we investigated how genetic differentiation changes with distance. Fourth, we determined the extent to which deforested areas restrict dispersal. Finally, we estimated the extent to which there were temporal differences in allele frequencies within the same forest fragments. Within years we found low levels of differentiation even over 80 km, and no effect of land use type on level of genetic differentiation. However, we found significant genetic differentiation between years. Taken together our results suggest that there are high levels of gene flow over this geographic area, and that individuals show low site fidelity over time.
The Development of Children's Prelife Reasoning: Evidence From Two Cultures
Authors: Emmons Natalie A. , Kelemen Deborah
Published: January 2014

Two studies investigated children's reasoning about their mental and bodily states during the time prior to biological conception—“prelife.” By exploring prelife beliefs in 5‐ to 12‐year‐olds (N = 283) from two distinct cultures (urban Ecuadorians, rural indigenous Shuar), the studies aimed to uncover children's untutored intuitions about the essential features of persons. Results showed that with age, children judged fewer mental and bodily states to be functional during prelife. However, children from both cultures continued to privilege the functionality of certain mental states (i.e., emotions, desires) relative to bodily states (i.e., biological, psychobiological, perceptual states). Results converge with afterlife research and suggest that there is an unlearned cognitive tendency to view emotions and desires as the eternal core of personhood.
Systemic effect of water fluoridation on dental caries prevalence
Authors: Cho Hyun‐Jae , Jin Bo‐Hyoung , Park Deok‐Young , Jung Se‐Hwan , Lee Heung‐Soo , Paik Dai‐Il , Bae Kwang‐Hak
Published: January 2014

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the systemic effect of water fluoridation on dental caries prevalence and experience in Cheongju, South Korea, where water fluoridation ceased 7 years previously.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was employed at two schools where water fluoridation had ceased (WF‐ceased area) and at two schools where the water had never been fluoridated (non‐WF area). The schools in the non‐WF area were of a similar population size to the schools in the WF‐ceased area. Children of three age groups were examined in both areas: aged 6 (n = 505), 8 (n = 513), and 11 years (n = 467). The differences in the mean number of decayed or filled primary teeth (dft) and the mean number of decayed, missing, or filled permanent teeth (DMFT) scores between areas after adjusting for oral health behaviors and socio‐demographic factors were analyzed by a Poisson regression model.

Results

The regression model showed that the DMFT ratio for children aged 11 years in the WF‐ceased area was 0.581 (95% CI 0.450–0.751). In contrast, the dft ratio for age 6 in the WF‐ceased area was 1.158 (95% CI 1.004–1.335). Only the DMFT ratio for age 8 (0.924, 95% CI 0.625–1.368) was not significant.

Conclusions

While 6‐year‐old children who had not ingested fluoridated water showed higher dft in the WF‐ceased area than in the non‐WF area, 11‐year‐old children in the WF‐ceased area who had ingested fluoridated water for approximately 4 years after birth showed significantly lower DMFT than those in the non‐WF area. This suggests that the systemic effect of fluoride intake through water fluoridation could be important for the prevention of dental caries.
A prospective pilot study to assess neoadjuvant chemotherapy for unresectable peritoneal carcinomatosis from colorectal cancer
Authors: Hompes D. , Aalbers A. , Boot H. , van Velthuysen M.‐L. , Vogel W. , Prevoo W. , van Tinteren H. , Verwaal V.
Published: January 2014

Aim

Twelve to 13% of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) develop peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC), the majority of whom present with unresectable disease. This study aimed to document the actual response rate to and response characteristics of preoperative modern systemic chemotherapy in this patient group.

Method

Patients underwent a positron emission tomography (PET)/CT scan, laparoscopy and peritoneal biopsy to document unresectable PC. After four courses of preoperative chemotherapy (capecitabine/oxaliplatin ± bevacizumab), the extent of PC was re‐evaluated by PET/CT(or CT), laparoscopy and peritoneal biopsy (if considered safe).

Results

Ten patients (seven men, three women) with good performance status of median age 60.3 (45.6–72.8) years were studied. The first laparoscopy documented unresectable PC. One patient was excluded because of systemic metastases on PET/CT. Nine proceeded to follow the trial protocol. Of these, one developed early progressive disease, two had macroscopically stable disease and five had progressive disease at second laparoscopy. One patient developed a small bowel perforation at first laparoscopy and received palliative chemotherapy outside the protocol, after which progressive disease was found at an explorative laparotomy. Thus, 7 (78%) patients with unresectable PC from CRC developed progressive disease under neoadjuvant chemotherapy and 2 (22%) patients remained stable. No clear macroscopic response to chemotherapy could be demonstrated.

Conclusion

Unresectable PC from CRC does not respond well to systemic chemotherapy.
Alcohol, masculinity, honour and male barroom aggression in an Australian sample
Authors: Miller Peter , Wells Samantha , Hobbs Rhianna , Zinkiewicz Lucy , Curtis Ashlee , Graham Kathryn
Published: January 2014

Introduction and Aims

The link between alcohol and men's aggression is well established, although growing evidence also points to individual and learned social factors. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationships between male alcohol‐related aggression (MARA) among young Australian men and heavy episodic drinking, trait aggression, masculinity, concerns about social honour and expected positive consequences of MARA.

Design and Methods

The total sample comprised 170 men aged 18–25 years who completed an online questionnaire exploring beliefs and attitudes towards MARA.

Results

Those who reported heavy episodic drinking were more likely to be involved in an incident of MARA. In addition, those who were involved in MARA had higher levels of trait aggression, concern for social honour and expected positive consequences of aggression in bars than did those without such involvement. The relationship between socially constructed masculinity factors (a combined variable reflecting masculinity, social honour and expected positive consequences) and MARA was mediated by heavy episodic drinking. Social honour accounted for almost all of the predictive power of masculinity factors. Heavy episodic drinking and trait aggression remained significant predictors of MARA in a multivariate model.

Discussion and Conclusions

The findings from the current study may assist in developing preventative techniques for young men which target masculinity concerns and the consequences of participating in MARA. [Miller P, Wells S. Alcohol, masculinity, honour and male barroom aggression in an Australian sample. Drug Alcohol Rev 2014;33:136–143]
Next Generations, Catwalks, Random Walks and Arms Races: conceptualising the development of quality assurance schemes
Authors: Westerheijden Don F. , Stensaker Bjørn , Rosa Maria J. , Corbett Anne
Published: January 2014

The emergence and development of quality assurance schemes in European countries over the last 15–20 years has inspired many national case studies of the systems and procedures adopted. The methods, contexts, and procedures associated with this policy change are diverse. But although individual countries have set about changing policy in different ways there appear to be some common developmental patterns within the Europe of the Bologna Process. How can these developments be conceptualised? In a first step this paper advances a typology based on the quality assurance literature. In a second step, the paper applies the typology to quality assurance developments in three countries. The third part of the paper discusses the strengths and weaknesses of the modelling approach in the light of the empirical evidence and a political science analysis of policy change. The paper concludes with a discussion on future directions for the comparative study of policy change within the European Higher Education Area on the basis of this conceptualisation of developments in quality assurance policy.
F‐18 FDG PET/CT quantization parameters as predictors of outcome in patients with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Gallicchio Rosj , Mansueto Giovanna , Simeon Vittorio , Nardelli Anna , Guariglia Roberto , Capacchione Daniela , Soscia Ernesto , Pedicini Piernicola , Gattozzi Domenico , Musto Pellegrino , Storto Giovanni
Published: January 2014

Aim

We evaluated the prognostic significance of standardized uptake value (SUVmax), metabolic tumor volume (MTV), and total lesion glycolysis (TLG) obtained by F‐18 FDG PET/CT (PET/CT) in patients with diffuse large B‐cell Lymphomas (DLBCL) presenting intermediate IPI score.

Material and Methods

Fifty‐two patients (61 ± 13 yr) underwent PET/CT before the first‐line chemotherapy. The mean SUVmax value, the summed MTV (cm3; 42% threshold), and the cumulative TLG (g) were registered. The patients were followed up 18 months thereafter (range 3–41 months). The PET/CT results were compared to the event‐free survival (EFS).

Results

At univariate analysis, SUVmax and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels were predictive, but discordantly. The Kaplan–Meier survival analysis for SUVmax showed a significant better EFS in patients presenting higher values as compared to those having lesser (P = 0.0002, HR 0.13). Summed MTV and cumulative TLG were not suitable for predicting EFS.

Conclusion

Despite the availability of new tools for the quantitative assessment of disease activity on PET/CT, the SUVmax rather than MTV and TLG remains the only predictor for EFS in DLBCL patients. The magnitude of glycolytic activity rather than the amount of metabolically active burden holds a predominant value for determining the response to chemotherapy in DLBCL.
Evolutionary shifts to self‐fertilisation restricted to geographic range margins in North American Arabidopsis lyrata
Authors: Griffin P. C. , Willi Y.
Published: January 2014

Cross‐fertilisation predominates in eukaryotes, but shifts to self‐fertilisation are common and ecologically and evolutionarily important. Reproductive assurance under outcross gamete limitation is one eco‐evolutionary process held responsible for the shift to selfing. Although small effective population size is a situation where selfing plants could theoretically benefit from reproductive assurance, empirical tests of the role of population size are rare. Here, we show that selfing evolved repeatedly at range margins, where historical demographic processes produced low effective population sizes. Outcrossing populations of North American Arabidopsis lyrata have low genetic diversity at geographic margins, with a signature of post‐glacial range expansion in the north and rear‐edge isolation in the south. Selfing populations occur at the margins of two genetic groups and never in their interior. These results corroborate small effective population size as the promoter of self‐fertilisation and have important implications for our understanding of species turnover, range limits and range dynamics.
Anaplastic malignant melanoma of the tail in non‐grey horses
Authors: Valentine B. A. , Calderwood Mays M. B. , Cheramie H. S.
Published: January 2014

Information regarding signalment, clinical findings, treatment and outcome of 5 previously reported cases of anaplastic malignant melanoma of the tail in non‐grey horses and of 5 additional cases are summarised. Age was recorded for 9 horses and mean age was 16 years, range 8–23 years. Gender was recorded for 8 horses and 6 of these 8 horses were male horses over 14 years of age. The most common coat colour was bay (6 horses). Other coat colours were palomino (one horse), chestnut (one horse) and black (one horse); coat colour of one non‐grey horse was not specified. Follow‐up information was available for 9 horses and only one horse, a palomino, survived more than 10 months following diagnosis and tail amputation. Surgical excision, including tail amputation and medical therapy with oral cimetidine, was not effective in non‐grey, non‐palomino horses. Tumour recurred on tail tissue remaining after amputation in 2 horses, widespread metastases were documented in 4 cases and metastasis was suspected at the time of death or euthanasia in 3 cases, including one case with amputation site regrowth. No subjective histopathological differences were detected in the palomino horse that survived as compared to horses of other coat colours. Findings suggest that anaplastic malignant melanoma of the tail in non‐grey horses is most often a very aggressive neoplasm, but that there are rare exceptions.
Targeted silencing of DEFB4 in a bioengineered skin‐humanized mouse model for psoriasis: development of siRNA SECosome‐based novel therapies
Authors: Bracke Stefanie , Carretero Marta , Guerrero‐Aspizua Sara , Desmet Eline , Illera Nuria , Navarro Manuel , Lambert Jo , Del Rio Marcela
Published: January 2014

Psoriasis is a complex inflammatory skin disease that presents a wide variety of clinical manifestations. Human β defensin‐2 (hBD‐2) is highly up‐regulated in psoriatic lesions and has been defined as a biomarker for disease activity. We explored the potential benefits of targeting hBD‐2 by topical application of DEFB4‐siRNA‐containing SECosomes in a bioengineered skin‐humanized mouse model for psoriasis. A significant improvement in the psoriatic phenotype was observed by histological examination, with a normalization of the skin architecture and a reduction in the number and size of blood vessels in the dermal compartment. Treatment leads to the recovery of transglutaminase activity, filaggrin expression and stratum corneum appearance to the levels similar to those found in normal regenerated human skin. The availability of a reliable skin‐humanized mouse model for psoriasis in conjunction with the use of the SECosome technology may provide a valuable preclinical tool for identifying potential therapeutic targets for this disease.
Perverse Audit Culture and Accountability of the Modern Public University
Authors: Craig Russell , Amernic Joel , Tourish Dennis
Published: January 2014

The audit culture which has developed in public universities has led to counter‐productive outcomes. Managerial oversight of academic work has reached a critical tipping point. Extensive auditing of research output by means of performance management assessment regimes motivated by a New Public Management mentality has damaged individual scholarship and threatened academic freedom. Such assessment regimes are perverse and conducive to the development of psychotic tendencies by universities. It is important to understand the effects of a perverse audit culture when re‐thinking and reforming approaches to university performance management. We suggest ways for public universities to acknowledge the need for accountability while remaining true to core academic purposes.
The Dissemination of Results from Supreme Audit Institutions: Independent Partners with the Media?
Authors: Bringselius Louise
Published: January 2014

Maximising media coverage is one way for Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) to account for themselves and it has been argued that SAIs can become independent partners with the media. This strategy may appear appealing in particular when a response to audits is not compulsory. However, based on a case study of the Swedish National Audit Office (SNAO) in the years 2003–2007, this paper shows that several risks follow from a dissemination strategy focused on maximising media coverage. For example, it may result in an overly critical position in relation to the Executive, thereby challenging both SAI neutrality and SAI independence.
Gurson model parameters for ductile fracture simulation in ASTM A992 steels
Authors: Kiran R. , Khandelwal K.
Published: January 2014

This study is concerned with the modelling the ductile fracture in ASTM A992 steels using the Gurson‐Tvergaard‐Needleman (GTN) model for high stress triaxiality regime. The GTN model for ASTM A992 structural steels is calibrated from the experiments performed on axisymmetrically notched tensile specimens. The experiments are designed to obtain a range of stress triaxiality and different fracture initiation locations. The non‐uniqueness in the constitutive parameters of the GTN model is illustrated in this study. The choice of a unique set of GTN constitutive parameters is made by choosing the nucleation strain (ɛN) as a material constant. The process of estimating this material specific nucleation strain is provided. All the other GTN model parameters corresponding to the material specific nucleation strain (ɛN) are evaluated to best fit the experimental results. The calibrated GTN model is shown to predict the load displacement behaviour, ductility and fracture initiation locations in the notched specimens. The calibrated GTN parameters are used to successfully predict the ductility of structural components: (a) bars with a hole; (b) plate with reduced section and (c) plate with holes; that are typically found in structural engineering applications.
Tectonic evolution of a Paleozoic thrust fault influences the hydrogeology of a fractured rock aquifer, northeastern Appalachian foreland
Authors: Kim J. , Ryan P. , Klepeis K. , Gleeson T. , North K. , Bean J. , Davis L. , Filoon J.
Published: January 2014

In polyorogenic regions, the superposition of structures during a protracted tectonic history produces complex fractured bedrock aquifers. Thrust‐faulted regions, in particular, have complicated permeability patterns that affect groundwater flow paths, quantity, and quality. In the Appalachian foreland of northwestern Vermont, numerous bedrock wells that are spatially related to the Paleozoic Hinesburg thrust have elevated naturally occurring radioactivity and/or low yields. The association of groundwater quality and quantity issues with this thrust was a unique opportunity to investigate its structural and hydrogeologic framework. The Hinesburg thrust juxtaposed metamorphic rocks of the hanging wall with sedimentary rocks of the footwall during the Ordovician. It was then deformed by two orthogonal Devonian fold sets and was fractured during the Cretaceous. Median well yields in the hanging wall aquifer are significantly lower than those of the footwall aquifer, consistent with the respective permeability contrast between metamorphic and carbonate rocks. For wells drilled through the Hinesburg thrust, those completed closest (vertically) to the thrust have the highest median yields, whereas others completed farther below have yields in the footwall range. The geochemical signature of the hanging wall and footwall aquifers correlates with their whole‐rock geochemistry. The hanging wall aquifer is enriched in alpha radiation, Na+K‐Cl, Ba, and Sr, whereas the footwall aquifer is enriched in Ca‐Mg‐HCO3 and alkalinity. Wells that penetrated the Hinesburg thrust generally have hanging wall geochemical signatures. A simple hydrogeologic model for the permeability evolution of the Hinesburg thrust involves the ductile emplacement of a low‐K hanging wall onto a high‐K footwall, with subsequent modification by fractures.
High‐Pressure Headaches, Low‐Pressure Syndromes, and CSF Leaks: Diagnosis and Management
Authors: Graff‐Radford Steven B. , Schievink Wouter I.
Published: January 2014

Background

Headache resulting from idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) in a population of moderately to obese women of childbearing age. The causes overall remain unclear. With this review, we provide an overview of clinical treatment and management strategies.

Results

IIH management is dependent on the signs and symptoms presented. Symptomatic treatment should attempt to lower intracranial pressure, reduce pain, and protect the optic nerves. Consideration for lumbar puncture and draining fluid as an option for reducing pressure may be helpful; however, repeated treatment is not usually favored by patients. Traditional prophylactic medications used in migraine may help reduce the primary headache often induced by raised intracranial pressure. We suggested surgical intervention for patients experiencing visual loss or impending visual loss and not responding to medication therapy.

Conclusion

In this review, we discuss headache associated with IIH and spontaneous intracranial hypotension. Much needs to be learned about treatment options for patients with cerebrospinal fluid leaks including methods to strengthen the dura.
Effect of three NiTi files on transportation of the apical foramen
Authors: Hu W. , Whitten B. , Sedgley C. , Svec T.
Published: January 2014

Aim

To compare landed and nonlanded rotary file overinstrumentation on transportation of the apical foramen in the curved canals of extracted teeth.

Methodology

Severely curved molar root canals (n = 45) were distributed into three equal groups (n = 15) according to angle (mean 54°) and radius of curvature (mean 5 mm). Canals were overinstrumented 0.5 mm beyond the foramen to a size 35 master apical file using landed (ProFile ISO), nonlanded (ProFile Vortex) or nonlanded, reduced shape memory (Vortex Blue) files. Post‐instrumentation images of the apical foramen were compared with pre‐instrumentation control images for differences in area, circularity and ratio of Feret's diameters. Groups were compared using anova or Kruskal–Wallis tests with significance of P < 0.05.

Results

There were no differences between pre‐treatment groups in the parameters tested. All groups demonstrated alterations in the geometry of the apical foramen. There were no significant differences between ProFile ISO, ProFile Vortex or Vortex Blue in area, circularity and ratio of Feret's diameters.

Conclusions

Landed, nonlanded and nonlanded reduced shape memory files all produced transportation of the apical foramen when overinstrumented by 0.5 mm in severely curved canals. There was no difference between these file systems with regard to the degree of this effect.
Different subsets of natural killer T cells may vary in their roles in health and disease
Authors: Kumar Vipin , Delovitch Terry L.
Published: January 2014

Natural killer T cells (NKT) can regulate innate and adaptive immune responses. Type I and type II NKT cell subsets recognize different lipid antigens presented by CD1d, an MHC class‐I‐like molecule. Most type I NKT cells express a semi‐invariant T‐cell receptor (TCR), but a major subset of type II NKT cells reactive to a self antigen sulphatide use an oligoclonal TCR. Whereas TCR‐α dominates CD1d‐lipid recognition by type I NKT cells, TCR‐α and TCR‐β contribute equally to CD1d‐lipid recognition by type II NKT cells. These variable modes of NKT cell recognition of lipid–CD1d complexes activate a host of cytokine‐dependent responses that can either exacerbate or protect from disease. Recent studies of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases have led to a hypothesis that: (i) although type I NKT cells can promote pathogenic and regulatory responses, they are more frequently pathogenic, and (ii) type II NKT cells are predominantly inhibitory and protective from such responses and diseases. This review focuses on a further test of this hypothesis by the use of recently developed techniques, intravital imaging and mass cytometry, to analyse the molecular and cellular dynamics of type I and type II NKT cell antigen‐presenting cell motility, interaction, activation and immunoregulation that promote immune responses leading to health versus disease outcomes.
An atypical CD8 T‐cell response to Chlamydia muridarum genital tract infections includes T cells that produce interleukin‐13
Authors: Johnson Raymond M. , Kerr Micah S. , Slaven James E.
Published: January 2014

Chlamydia trachomatis urogenital serovars D–K are intracellular bacterial pathogens that replicate almost exclusively in human reproductive tract epithelium. In the C. muridarum mouse model for human Chlamydia genital tract infections CD4 T helper type 1 cell responses mediate protective immunity while CD8 T‐cell responses have been associated with scarring and infertility. Scarring mediated by CD8 T cells requires production of tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α); however, TNF‐α is associated with protective immunity mediated by CD4 T cells. The latter result suggests that TNF‐α in‐and‐of itself may not be the sole determining factor in immunopathology. CD8 T cells mediating immunopathology presumably do something in addition to producing TNF‐α that is detrimental during resolution of genital tract infections. To investigate the mechanism underlying CD8 immunopathology we attempted to isolate Chlamydia‐specific CD8 T‐cell clones from mice that self‐cleared genital tract infections. They could not be derived with antigen‐pulsed irradiated naive splenocytes; instead derivation required use of irradiated immune splenocyte antigen‐presenting cells. The Chlamydia‐specific CD8 T‐cell clones had relatively low cell surface CD8 levels and the majority were not restricted by MHC class Ia molecules. They did not express Plac8, and had varying abilities to terminate Chlamydia replication in epithelial cells. Two of the five CD8 clones produced interleukin‐13 (IL‐13) in addition to IL‐2, TNF‐α, IL‐10 and interferon‐γ. IL‐13‐producing Chlamydia‐specific CD8 T cells may contribute to immunopathology during C. muridarum genital tract infections based on known roles of TNF‐α and IL‐13 in scar formation.
Increased numbers and functional activity of CD56+T cells in healthy cytomegalovirus positive subjects
Authors: Almehmadi Mazen , Flanagan Brian F. , Khan Naeem , Alomar Suliman , Christmas Stephen E.
Published: January 2014

Human T cells expressing CD56 are capable of tumour cell lysis following activation with interleukin‐2 but their role in viral immunity has been less well studied. Proportions of CD56+ T cells were found to be highly significantly increased in cytomegalovirus‐seropositive (CMV+) compared with seronegative (CMV−) healthy subjects (9·1 ± 1·5% versus 3·7 ± 1·0%; P < 0·0001). Proportions of CD56+ T cells expressing CD28, CD62L, CD127, CD161 and CCR7 were significantly lower in CMV+ than CMV− subjects but those expressing CD4, CD8, CD45RO, CD57, CD58, CD94 and NKG2C were significantly increased (P < 0·05), some having the phenotype of T effector memory cells. Levels of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and CD107a were significantly higher in CD56+ T cells from CMV+ than CMV− subjects following stimulation with CMV antigens. This also resulted in higher levels of proliferation in CD56+ T cells from CMV+ than CMV− subjects. Using Class I HLA pentamers, it was found that CD56+ T cells from CMV+ subjects contained similar proportions of antigen‐specific CD8+ T cells to CD56− T cells in donors of several different HLA types. These differences may reflect the expansion and enhanced functional activity of CMV‐specific CD56+ memory T cells. In view of the link between CD56 expression and T‐cell cytotoxic function, this strongly implicates CD56+ T cells as being an important component of the cytotoxic T‐cell response to CMV in healthy carriers.
A biased‐randomized algorithm for the two‐dimensional vehicle routing problem with and without item rotations
Authors: Dominguez Oscar , Juan Angel A. , Faulin Javier
Published: January 2014

This paper proposes an efficient algorithm, with a reduced number of parameters, for solving the two‐dimensional loading‐capacitated vehicle routing problem (2L‐CVRP). This problem combines two of the most important issues in logistics, that is, vehicle routing and packing problems. Our approach contemplates unrestricted loading including the possibility of applying 90° rotations to each rectangular‐shaped item while loading it into the vehicle, which is a realistic assumption seldom considered in the existing literature. The algorithm uses a multistart approach that is designed to avoid local minima and also to make the algorithm an easily parallelizable one. At each restart, a biased randomization of a savings‐based routing algorithm is combined with an enhanced version of a classical packing heuristic to produce feasible good solutions for the 2L‐CVRP. The proposed algorithm has been compared with the classical benchmarks for two different 2L‐CVRP variants, that is, with and without item rotations. Experimental results show that our approach outperforms several best‐known solutions from previous work, both in terms of quality and the computational time needed to obtain them.
Total Cystectomy for Treatment of Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Urethra and Bladder Trigone in a Dog
Authors: Boston Sarah , Singh Ameet
Published: January 2014

Objective

To report total cystectomy with reimplantation of the ureters in the proximal aspect of the vagina.

Study Design

Case report.

Animals

An 11‐year‐old female spayed Vizsla with spontaneously occurring transitional cell carcinoma of the urethra and bladder.

Methods

After initial treatment for transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder trigone with urethral stent placement and chemotherapy, the dog developed urinary incontinence 2 months after stent placement. Eleven months after initial diagnosis, the dog developed pulmonary metastasis and local progression, leading to bilateral ureteral dilatation. After palliative radiation, total cystectomy was performed.

Results

The owners elected euthanasia 442 days after original presentation and 92 days after total cystectomy. Euthanasia was unrelated to the surgical procedure, but was related to the primary disease.

Conclusions

Total cystectomy is a technically feasible procedure that should be considered for the treatment of bladder cancer in dogs.
Ability of the Tightrope® and Percutaneous Lateral Fabellar Suture Techniques to Control Cranial Tibial Translation
Authors: Biskup Jeffery J. , Griffon Dominique J. , Socie Mike , Schaeffer David J. , Kurath Peter
Published: January 2014

Objective

To compare the ability of the Tightrope® (TR) cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) technique, percutaneous lateral fabella suture (pLFS) technique, and normal CCL to control cranial tibial translation (CTT).

Study Design

In vitrobiomechanical study.

Sample Population

Cadaveric canine pelvic limbs (n = 18 pairs).

Methods

Six small animal surgical residents (1 pair each) and a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (10 pairs) performed TR and pLFS techniques on paired limbs. Two intact limb pairs served as controls. Limbs were assessed by palpation, radiographs, and dissection before mechanical testing of resistance to CTT. Forces resisted during displacement were compared between groups with a mixed ANOVA and post hoc tests.

Results

With 5 mm of displacement, the pLFS resisted 72 ± 45 N and the TR resisted 66 ± 48 N of load. The intact CCL resisted 400 ± 35 N. The intact CCL resisted displacement significantly more than either surgical technique.

Conclusions

TR and pLFS had similar ability to resist CTT but neither restored the biomechanical properties of an intact CCL.
Technical Difficulties During the Training Phase for Tightrope® and Percutaneous Lateral Fabellar Suture Techniques for Cranial Cruciate Ligament Repair
Authors: Biskup Jeffery J. , Griffon Dominique J.
Published: January 2014

Objective

To compare level of difficulty, deviations from technical description and postoperative assessment during the training of veterinary students, small animal surgical residents, and a board certified surgeon for Tightrope® (TR) and percutaneous lateral fabella suture (pLFS) techniques for cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) repair.

Study Design

Prospective study.

Sample Population

Cadaveric canine pelvic limbs (n = 32).

Methods

Sixteen 3rd year veterinary students, 6 small animal surgical residents and a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons performed the TR and pLFS techniques on paired limbs. Perceived level of difficulty, duration of surgery, and technical deviations were assessed by questionnaire, radiographs, and dissection. Results were compared between techniques with McNemar's test.

Results

The TR procedure was perceived as more technically demanding than the pLFS by veterinary students and residents. Technical deviations were overall more common after TR than pLFS, and in limbs repaired by students, regardless of procedure. The most difficult aspect of the TR consists of the bone tunnels whereas for pLFS it was passing the suture around the femorofabellar ligament. The sensitivity of radiographs for detection of technical deviations was 39% after TR and 50% after pLFS.

Conclusion

Technical deviations are more common during the training phase of TR than pLFS, and the sensitivity of radiographs to detect those is low. Repeated practice on cadavers followed by dissection is recommended before use in patients.
PSYCHOPHYSIOLOGICAL AND NEUROPHYSIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF SCHIZOPHRENIA
Authors: Flekkøy K.
Published: January 2014

Recent studies in psychophysiology and neurophysiology strongly indicate that there is an overstimulation of the brain in schizophrenia. However, the relationship between overstimulation and schizophrenic symptoms is largely unknown. Neuropathological, anatomical and biochemical data support the conclusion that the schizophrenic syndrome represents a malfunctioning involving at least the neostriatal‐thalamus system, perhaps due to an imbalance between dopamine and noradrenaline.
THE EFFECT OF SOCIAL CLASS ON PSYCHIATRIC PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATIONS IN PATIENTS WITH PULMONARY TUBERCULOSIS
Authors: Kuha S. , Moilanen P. , Kampman R.
Published: January 2014

The present study is a methodological examination in which the social and psychic background factors of 100 tuberculous patients, aged 20 to 45 years, were explored using psychiatric interview and psychological tests (MMPI, Rorschach, and Wartegg). The purpose of the study was to analyse the effect of social background factors on the psychiatric and psychological examination. With the help of correlation coefficients and three‐factor factor analysis, the variable indicating the social class of the subject could be proved to correlate significantly to the projective test variables (Rorschach, Wartegg). No such correlation between the social group variable and those obtained in the psychiatric interview or the MMPI test could be demonstrated. On the basis of the projective tests, subjects in the lower social classes were considered more disturbed. It can be supposed that the background factors characteristic of lower social classes would contribute to the unfamiliar test situation, causing reactions disturbing the test performance. This suggests that the mentioned tests should be used with caution in the evaluation of personality disturbances.