bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variability in Osmotic Stress Tolerance of Starch Potato Genotypes (Solanum tuberosum L.) as Revealed by an In Vitro Screening: Role of Proline, Osmotic Adjustment and Drought Response in Pot Trials
Authors: Bündig C. , Vu T. H. , Meise P. , Seddig S. , Schum A. , Winkelmann T.
Published: August 2016

Solanum tuberosum (potato) as a drought sensitive plant is also one of the most promising plants to meet the demands for food and starch of a growing population. Distinguishing genotypes into tolerant and susceptible is therefore of utmost interest. We subjected eighteen potato genotypes and two wild species, S. tarijense and S. chacoense, to osmotic stress applied in vitro by addition of 0.2 m sorbitol to a solid medium. Here, we report that a ratio of root:shoot dry mass (DM) together with the SSI (stress susceptibility index, equivalent to drought susceptibility index by Fischer and Maurer, Aust. J. Agron. Res., 29, 1978) of shoot DM were found to be relevant parameters to characterize genotypes in vitro for their osmotic stress tolerance. Drought stress data from pot trials in a rainout shelter (2013 and 2015) correlated poorly with the data obtained in in vitro experiments. However, the most tolerant and most sensitive genotypes in vitro were also categorized to be more tolerant or sensitive than the average to drought stress in vivo. Both, under in vitro and in vivo conditions, proline displayed an increase under osmotic stress conditions in nearly all potatoes tested, but no direct correlations were found to stress tolerance. However, a genotype classified as tolerant displayed earlier proline accumulation. Proline is thought of as one factor for plants to withstand stressful conditions, but cannot be used to distinguish potato genotypes for their stress tolerance to osmotic stress in vitro. Analysis of the osmotic potential of in vitro and in vivo stressed plants displayed a general increase compared to the control.
Cell surface‐anchored syndecan‐1 ameliorates intestinal inflammation and neutrophil transmigration in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Zhang Yan , Wang Zhongqiu , Liu Jun , Zhang Shaoheng , Fei Jiaxi , Li Jing , Zhang Ting , Wang Jide , Park Pyong W. , Chen Ye
Published: August 2016

Syndecan‐1 (SDC1), with a variable ectodomain carrying heparan sulphate (HS) chains between different Syndecans, participates in many steps of inflammatory responses. In the process of proteolysis, theHSchains of the complete extracellular domain can be shed from the cell surface, by which they can mediate most ofSDC1's function. However, the exact impact onSDC1 which anchored on the cell surface has not been clearly reported. In our study, we established the models by transfection with the cleavable resistantSDC1 mutant plasmid, in whichSDC1 shedding can be suppressed during stimulation. Role of membraneSDC1 in inflammatory pathway, pro‐inflammatory cytokine secretion as well as neutrophil transmigration, and how suppressing its shedding will benefit colitis were further investigated. We found that the patients suffered ulcerative colitis had high serumSDC1 levels,presented with increased levels of P65, tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) andIL‐1β and higher circulating neutrophils.NF‐κB pathway was activated, and secretion ofTNF‐α, interleukin‐1beta (IL‐1β),IL‐6 andIL‐8 were increased upon lipopolysaccharide stimuli in intestinal epithelial cells. Syndecan‐1,viaits anchored ectodomain, significantly lessened these up‐regulation extents. It also functioned in inhibiting transmigration of neutrophils by decreasingCXCL‐1 secretion. Moreover,SDC1 ameliorated colitis activity and improved histological disturbances of colon in mice. Taken together, we conclude that suppression ofSDC1 shedding from intestinal epithelial cells relieves severity of intestinal inflammation and neutrophil transmigration by inactivating key inflammatory regulatorsNF‐κB, and down‐regulating pro‐inflammatory cytokine expressions. These indicated that compenstion and shedding suppression of cytomembraneSDC1 might be the optional therapy for intestinal inflammation.
CD151 mediates netrin‐1‐induced angiogenesis through the Src‐FAK‐Paxillin pathway
Authors: Yang Xiaosheng , Li Shiting , Zhong Jun , Zhang Wenchuan , Hua Xuming , Li Bin , Sun Hui
Published: August 2016

Crosstalk between the nervous and vascular systems is important during development and in response to injury, and the laminin‐like axonal guidance protein netrin‐1 has been studied for its involvement in angiogenesis and vascular remodelling. In this study, we examined the role of netrin‐1 in angiogenesis and explored the underlying mechanisms. The effect of netrin‐1 on brain tissues and endothelial cells was examined by immunohistochemistry and western blotting in a middle cerebral artery occlusion model and in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Cell proliferation and cell cycle progression were assessed by the MTT assay and flow cytometry, and the Transwell and tube formation assays were used to examine endothelial cell motility and function. Netrin‐1 up‐regulated CD151 and VEGF concomitant with the activation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), Src and Paxillin in vitro and in vivo and the induction of cell proliferation, migration and tube formation in vitro. Silencing of CD151 abolished the effects of netrin‐1 on promoting cell migration and tube formation mediated by the activation of FAK/Src signalling. Netrin‐1 promoted angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo by activating the FAK/Src/Paxillin signalling pathway through a mechanism dependent on the expression of the CD151 tetraspanin, suggesting the existence of a netrin‐1/FAK/Src/CD151 signalling axis involved in the modulation of angiogenesis.
Jessner's solution vs. 30% salicylic acid peels: a comparative study of the efficacy and safety in mild‐to‐moderate acne vulgaris
Authors: Dayal Surabhi , Amrani Ashish , Sahu Priyadarshini , Jain Vijay Kumar
Published: August 2016

Introduction

Chemical peeling is a well‐identified therapeutic modality for acne vulgaris (AV). Jessner's solution (JS) is a known peeling agent for acne since more than 100 years. Salicylic acid (SA) peel is a well‐established peeling agent for acne. There is paucity of literature comparing the current peeling agents of choice, that is, SA with the older peeling agents, that is, JS for acne.

Objective

To compare the efficacy and safety of 30% SA vs. JS peels in treatment of mild‐to‐moderate facial acne in Indian patients.

Materials and Method

A total of 40 patients with mild‐to‐moderate AV were enrolled for 12 weeks and were randomly divided into two groups: group 1, 30% SA peels and group 2, JS peels were performed 2 weeks apart with total of six peels in 12‐week duration. Clinical improvement was assessed objectively using Michaelsson acne scores (MAS) and clinical photographs. Side effects were observed at each visit.

Results

At the end of therapy, improvement in MAS and percentage decrease in MAS were significantly higher in group 1 as compared to group 2. Likewise, decrease in mean comedone counts in group 1 was significantly higher as compared to group 2. However, there was no statistically significant difference in the decrease in mean papule and pustule counts between the two groups. Both the groups tolerated the peels well.

Conclusion

Thus, 30% SA peels were more effective than JS peels in treatment of noninflammatory lesions, that is, comedones and in overall improvement of mild‐to‐moderate facial acne vulgaris.
Group B streptococcus antimicrobial resistance in neonates born to group B streptococcus‐colonized mothers: Single‐center survey
Authors: Li Yi‐Ping , Kuok Chi‐Man , Lin Shin‐Yu , Hsieh Wu‐Shiun , Shyu Ming‐Kwang
Published: August 2016

Aim

In this study, we collected group B streptococcus (GBS) screening data and analyzed screening rate, antimicrobial resistance rate, and neonatal observation room (NOR) admission rate due to inadequate chemoprophylaxis.

Methods

The GBS screening data for January 2006–December 2013 were retrospectively collected and analyzed. We also collected data for neonates admitted to NOR due to inadequate chemoprophylaxis during the period 1 April 2010–31 December 2013.

Results

A total of 12 200 pregnant women received rectovaginal culture during the 8‐year study period. The overall screening rate was 53.8% and maternal colonization rate was 20.7%. The GBS screening rate increased remarkably, from 23.2% in 2006 to 70% in 2013. Antimicrobial resistance was common. The resistance rates for each antimicrobial used in pregnancy were as follows: clindamycin, 49.51%; erythromycin, 49.51%. A total of 297 neonates were admitted to NOR due to inadequate antibiotic prophylaxis during 1 April 2010–31 December 2013. The overall NOR admission rate due to inadequate chemoprophylaxis was 2.67%, and the inadequate chemoprophylaxis rate for those GBS colonized mothers was 19.6%. None of these 297 infants had positive blood culture for GBS sepsis.

Conclusion

The GBS screening rate increased remarkably, reaching 70% in 2013. The NOR admission rate due to inadequate chemoprophylaxis was 2.67% and there was no early onset GBS disease in a total of 11 123 deliveries in this 4‐year cohort study.
Pregnancy outcomes in liver transplant recipients: A 15‐year single‐center experience
Authors: Kanzaki Yu , Kondoh Eiji , Kawasaki Kaoru , Mogami Haruta , Chigusa Yoshitsugu , Konishi Ikuo
Published: August 2016

Aim

There are an increasing number of reports of pregnancy following liver transplantation, but many questions remain regarding preconception counseling and management of the pregnancy. The aim of this study was to report pregnancy outcomes in women who had undergone liver transplants and to gain insight into these issues.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of liver transplant recipients who had received prenatal care at Kyoto University Hospital between January 2001 and December 2015.

Results

Twenty‐six consecutive pregnancies in 17 liver transplant recipients were identified during the period. The most common indication for liver transplantation was biliary atresia (65%). The median age at transplantation was 19 years (range, 2–38). The median age at conception was 28 years (range, 20–41) with a median time between transplantation and conception of 8 years (range, 0–22). A tacrolimus‐based immunosuppressive regimen (n = 21, 81%) was the most common at the time of conception. There were 13 live births (50%), four spontaneous miscarriages (15%), and nine induced abortions (35%). Median gestational age at delivery was 38 weeks (range, 32–42), and the median birthweight was 2858 g (range, 1815–3864 g). Pregnancy and maternal complications included preterm deliveries (23%), intrauterine growth restriction (23%), pre‐eclampsia (8%), cesarean delivery (23%), bacterial infection (15%), and biopsy‐proven acute cellular rejection (15%). Two infants had congenital anomalies (tetralogy of Fallot and hydronephrosis).

Conclusion

Pregnancy after liver transplantation can achieve relatively favorable outcomes. Obstetricians should be involved in the contraceptive and fertility counseling of female transplant recipients to prevent unintended pregnancies.
Can myometrial elasticity, as determined by elastography at 18–22 weeks of gestation, predict preterm delivery?
Authors: Yilmaz Dogru Hatice , Albayrak Eda , Delibas Ilhan Bahri , Isguder Cigdem Kunt , Ozsoy Asker Zeki , Cakmak Bulent , Ozmen Zafer , Aktas Fatma
Published: August 2016

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine whether elastographic evaluation of uterine myometrium can predict preterm delivery.

Methods

This study was carried out at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gaziosmanpasa University Hospital, Tokat, Turkey. A total of 148 pregnant women matching the inclusion criteria between January 2014 and January 2015 were enrolled. Elastographic measurements were obtained between 18 and 22 weeks of gestation, on real‐time images by a radiologist. Patients were followed up until delivery. A receiver–operator curve was used to calculate the sensitivity and specificity of the elastographic outcomes. All analyses were completed by spss 20.0.

Results

A negative correlation existed between the ratio of myometrium strain to fat tissue strain and delivery week (r = −0.300, P = 0.000214). In addition, a positive correlation was found between the ratio of myometrium strain to fat tissue strain and presence of preterm delivery (r = 0.223, P = 0.006). The multivariate linear regression analysis showed that the ratio of myometrium strain to fat tissue strain (β = 0.233, P = 0.006) was the significant predictor for preterm delivery.

Conclusion

The ratio of myometrium strain to fat tissue strain showed a trend towards significance to predict preterm delivery.
Accuracy of a new diagnostic tool in deep infiltrating endometriosis: Positron emission tomography–computed tomography with 16α‐[18F]fluoro‐17β‐estradiol
Authors: Cosma Stefano , Salgarello Matteo , Ceccaroni Marcello , Gorgoni Giancarlo , Riboni Francesca , La Paglia Ernesto , Danese Saverio , Benedetto Chiara
Published: August 2016

Aim

Preoperative workup of deep infiltrating endometriosis is limited in the evaluation of extragenital and extrapelvic disease and in distinguishing between the previous surgical scar and active lesion. Histological verification remains the gold standard for diagnosis. The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET/CT) with an experimental estrogen receptor tracer (16α‐[18F]fluoro‐17β‐estradiol; [18F]FES) for accurate staging and non‐invasive diagnosis of the disease. The primary endpoint was the feasibility of this tool on comparison with histology. The secondary endpoint was the accuracy of PET/CT in comparison with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

Four eligible subjects with extragenital endometriosis underwent MRI, PET/CT with [18F]FES, and laparoscopic excision of endometriosis in the same month. Region‐by‐region analysis was used to compare the findings of the two diagnostic tools with surgical histological specimens obtained during laparoscopy.

Results

A total of 40 anatomical regions were examined: seven were [18F]FES positive, four were positive on MRI and eight positive on histology. A total of nine regions were discordant. PET/CT agreed with histology in 9/9 of the discrepant findings.

Conclusion

PET/CT with [18F]FES was feasible and had greater accuracy than MRI, particularly in patients with previous surgery. Further studies are needed, however, to investigate its role in bowel endometriosis in sites other than recto‐sigmoid junction, nerve localization, and subcentimetric disease.
The assessment of the robustness of microRNAs from oral cytological scrapings
Authors: Prasad Gareema , Seers Christine , Reynolds Eric , McCullough Michael J.
Published: August 2016

Background

Sampling of suspect oral lesions in the general dental clinic may increase early carcinoma detection thus oral cancer survival rates. One means of lesion sampling that is an alternative to incisional biopsy is cytological scraping. MicroRNA alterations are also being explored as a means of diagnosing carcinoma as an alternative to histopathology.

Methods

We obtained cytological scrapings using 10 strokes (‘light’) or 40 strokes (‘heavy’) from the buccal mucosa of one healthy subject using a dermatological curette. MicroRNA was isolated from oral cytological scrapings immediately, or the scrapings were stored in buffer or RNA later, at 4°C, room temperature or 36°C, from 1 to 7 days prior to RNA isolation. All scrape comparisons and test conditions were conducted in triplicate. MicroRNAs were measured using qRT–PCR.

Results

MicroRNAs can be obtained from cytological scrapings independent of the number of strokes and can be measured using qRT–PCR after storage under all conditions tested.

Conclusion

MicroRNAs are robust to a wide range of storage conditions that bodes well for use of cytological scrapings to be of use in a clinical setting as a chair side sampling method for suspect oral lesions.
Liver mitochondrial oxygen consumption and proton leak kinetics in broilers supplemented with dietary copper or zinc following coccidiosis challenge
Authors: Acetoze G. , Kurzbard R. , Klasing K. C. , Ramsey J. J. , Rossow H. A.
Published: August 2016

Mitochondrial respiration was assessed in sixteen 7‐day‐old broilers as a subset of a larger study assessing the effects of Cu and Zn supplementation above requirements with a coccidiosis challenge on gain/feed ratio. The birds were selected from four treatments (four birds/treatment): a control diet (Cu 15 mg/kg and Zn 60 mg/kg) + coccidiosis challenge (CC), a Cu diet with 245 mg/kg Cu from tribasic copper chloride (TBCC) + CC, a negative control diet (Cu 15 mg/kg and Zn 60 mg/kg) ‐ CC and a Zn diet with 2000 mg/kg Zn from ZnO. The diets were composed of 49% corn, 40% soybean meal, 6.2% vegetable oil (diet dry matter = 90.62%, crude protein = 21.37%, fat = 7.7%, metabolizable energy = 12.1 MJ/day) and were fed for 14 days. Birds were dissected, and approximately one gram of liver tissue was used for mitochondrial oxygen consumption and proton leak kinetics assays. Respiratory control ratio and mitochondrial proton leak assessed by calculating rates of oxygen consumption at 175mV membrane potential were greater for the negative control group, but there were no differences in average gain/feed among treatments. In summary, broilers that did not undergo coccidiosis challenge had lower proton leak and higher respiratory control ratio. However, the impact of supplementation of Cu and Zn above requirements did not appear to prevent changes in respiratory control ratio and proton leak kinetics with coccidiosis challenge.
Hepatitis C‐specific effector and regulatory CD4 T‐cell responses are associated with the outcomes of primary infection
Authors: Keoshkerian E. , Hunter M. , Cameron B. , Nguyen N. , Sugden P. , Bull R. , Zekry A. , Maher L. , Seddiki N. , Zaunders J. , Kelleher A. , Lloyd A. R. ,   the HITS‐p and HITS‐c investigators
Published: August 2016

Clearance of primary hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has been associated with strong and broadly targeted cellular immune responses. This study aimed to characterize HCV‐specific CD4+ effector and regulatory T‐cell numbers and cytokine production during primary infection. Antigen‐specific CD4+ T‐cell responses were investigated in a longitudinal cohort of subjects from pre‐infection to postoutcome, including subjects who cleared [n=12] or became chronically infected [n=17]. A cross‐sectional cohort with previously cleared, or chronic infection [n=15 for each], was also studied. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were incubated with HCV antigens and surface stained for T‐effector (CD4+CD25highCD134+CD39‐) and T‐regulatory (CD4+CD25highCD134+CD39+) markers, and culture supernatants assayed for cytokine production. Contrary to expectations, the breadth and magnitude of the HCV‐specific CD4+ T‐cell responses were higher in subjects who became chronically infected. Subjects who cleared the virus had HCV‐specific CD4+ T‐cell responses dominated by effector T cells and produced higher levels of IFN‐γ, in contrast to HCV‐specific CD4+ T‐cell responses dominated by regulatory T cells and more IL‐10 production in those who became chronically infected. Better understanding of the role of antigen‐specific CD4+ T‐cell responses in primary HCV will further define pathogenesis and help guide development of a preventative vaccine.
Sources of resistance and susceptibility to Septoria tritici blotch of wheat
Authors: Arraiano Lia S. , Brown James K. M.
Published: August 2016

An association genetics analysis was conducted to investigate the genetics of resistance to Septoria tritici blotch, caused by the fungus Zymoseptoria tritici (alternatively Mycosphaerella graminicola), in cultivars and breeding lines of wheat (Triticum aestivum) used in the UK between 1860 and 2000. The population was tested with Diversity Array Technology (DArT) and simple‐sequence repeat (SSR or microsatellite) markers. The lines formed a single population with no evidence for subdivision, because there were several common ancestors of large parts of the pedigree. Quantitative trait loci (QTLs) controlling Septoria resistance were postulated on 11 chromosomes, but 38% of variation was not explained by the identified QTLs. Calculation of best linear unbiased predictions (BLUPs) identified lineages of spring and winter wheat carrying different alleles for resistance and susceptibility. Abundant variation in Septoria resistance may be exploited by crossing well‐adapted cultivars in different lineages to achieve transgressive segregation and thus breed for potentially durable quantitative resistance, whereas phenotypic selection for polygenic quantitative resistance should be effective in breeding cultivars with increased resistance. The most potent allele reducing susceptibility to Septoria, on chromosome arm 6AL, was associated with reduced leaf size. Genes which increase susceptibility to Septoria may have been introduced inadvertently into UK wheat breeding programmes from cultivars used to increase yield, rust resistance and eyespot resistance between the 1950s and 1980s. This indicates the need to consider trade‐offs in plant breeding when numerous traits are important and to be cautious about the use of non‐adapted germplasm.
Exploitation of endophytes for sustainable agricultural intensification
Authors: Le Cocq Kate , Gurr Sarah J. , Hirsch Penny R. , Mauchline Tim H.
Published: August 2016

Intensive agriculture, which depends on unsustainable levels of agrochemical inputs, is environmentally harmful, and the expansion of these practices to meet future needs is not economically feasible. Other options should be considered to meet the global food security challenge. The plant microbiome has been linked to improved plant productivity and, in this microreview, we consider the endosphere – a subdivision of the plant microbiome. We suggest a new definition of microbial endophyte status, the need for synergy between fungal and bacterial endophyte research efforts, as well as potential strategies for endophyte application to agricultural systems.
The thioredoxin MoTrx2 protein mediates reactive oxygen species (ROS) balance and controls pathogenicity as a target of the transcription factor MoAP1 in Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Wang Jingzhen , Yin Ziyi , Tang Wei , Cai Xingjia , Gao Chuyun , Zhang Haifeng , Zheng Xiaobo , Wang Ping , Zhang Zhengguang
Published: August 2016

We have shown previously that the transcription factor MoAP1 governs the oxidative response and is important for pathogenicity in the rice blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae. To explore the underlying mechanism, we have identified thioredoxin MoTrx2 as a target of MoAP1 in M. oryzae. Thioredoxins are highly conserved 12‐kDa oxidoreductase enzymes containing a dithiol–disulfide active site, and function as antioxidants against free radicals, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS). In yeast and fungi, thioredoxins are important for oxidative stress tolerance and growth. To study the functions of MoTrx2, we generated ΔMotrx2 mutants that exhibit various defects, including sulfite assimilation, asexual and sexual differentiation, infectious hyphal growth and pathogenicity. We found that ΔMotrx2 mutants possess a defect in the scavenging of ROS during host cell invasion and in the active suppression of the rice defence response. We also found that ΔMotrx2 mutants display higher intracellular ROS levels during conidial germination, but lower peroxidase and laccase activities, which contribute to the attenuation in virulence. Given that the function of MoTrx2 overlaps that of MoAP1 in the stress response and pathogenicity, our findings further indicate that MoTrx2 is a key thioredoxin protein whose function is subjected to transcriptional regulation by MoAP1 in M. oryzae.
Crowned dens syndrome mimicking meningitis: Report of two cases
Authors: Nagasaki Hirokazu , Doi Hiroshi
Published: August 2016

Crowned dens syndrome is a rare pathology characterized by acute attacks of neck pain with fever, rigidity, general signs of inflammation and calcification of the periodontoid articular structures. Symptoms of crowned dens syndrome can mimic other disease, particularly meningitis. Consequently, this syndrome is often misdiagnosed, which leads to unnecessary invasive examinations, inappropriate treatment and prolonged hospitalization. In the present case report, we described two cases initially diagnosed as meningitis. Both patients had nuchal rigidity and neck pain without Kernig's sign and Lasegue sign. Discrepancy of meningeal irritation signs is the key point for diagnosis.
Protective effect of mycophenolate mofetil on residual renal function in peritoneal dialysis patients: An open label feasibility study
Authors: Wang Xiaoyang , Zhang Xiaoxue , Lu Shan , Liu Dong , Chen Genyang , Dou Yanna , Yuan Wenming , Ma Shuang , Li Yansheng , Xiao Jing , Zhao Zhanzheng
Published: August 2016

Aim

This study aims to evaluate the safety of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and its effect on residual renal function (RRF) during peritoneal dialysis (PD).

Methods

This is a prospective, randomized study comprising 60 PD patients. The patients were assigned either to the MMF group (MMF dosage: 1.0–1.5 g/day in two divided doses for 6 months, followed by a dose of 0.5–0.75 g/day for another 6 months) or to the control group. The patients close monitoring for 1 year. Variables related to residual renal function, including urine volume, measured glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and renal Kt/V, were measured at four time points.

Results

There were no significant changes in urinary protein excretion in either group (P > 0.05). The MMF group showed a significantly higher urine volume than the control group (955.38 ± 243.54 vs 786.15 ± 279.62 mL/day, P = 0.024). The renal kt/V was also significantly higher in the MMF group (0.59 ± 0.11 in MMF vs 0.50 ± 0.19 in control group, P = 0.032). There was significant difference in the renal measured GFR between the two groups at 6, 9 and 12 months (MMF vs control at 6 months, 6.14 ± 0.66 vs 5.58 ± 0.65 mL/min per 1.73m2, P = 0.003; at 9 months, 5.68 ± 0.80 vs 4.78 ± 0.75, P < 0.001; at 12 months, 5.44 ± 0.91 vs 4.43 ± 0.93, P < 0.001). MMF was well tolerated without any serious complications.

Conclusion

The use of MMF in PD patients tends to better preserve RRF.
Cerebellar hemangioblastoma with perivascular pseudorosette formation and glial differentiation: A case report
Authors: Wang Jian , Lin Xu‐Yong , Qiu Xue‐Shan , Wang En‐Hua , Yang Lian‐He , Yu Juan‐Han
Published: August 2016

Hemangioblastoma is a well‐circumscribed, highly vascular, lipid‐rich and low‐grade tumor of uncertain histogenesis. Its histopathological features have been well established. Herein, we present a case of cerebellar hemangioblastoma in a 43‐year‐old woman. Histologically, the tumor was predominantly composed of cellular areas showing eosinophilic or vacuolated stromal cells arranged in nests and sheets. Focally, conventional reticular areas could be seen. Additionally, in some areas, the stromal cells were arranged radially around blood vessels, exhibiting perivascular pseudorosette structures, which were similar mostly to those of ependymomas. Immunohistochemically, the stromal cells markedly showed diffused staining for Vimentin, S‐100, CD56, NSE, inhibin‐a, podoplanin, alpha‐Thalassemia/mental retardation syndrome X and carbonic anhydrase IX, and were negative for cytokeratin, epithelial membrane antigen, oligodendrocyte transcription factor 2, neuronal nuclear antigen, synaptophysin, isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (R132H), P53 and CD34. Interestingly, the reticular and cellular areas either showed no or individual scattering of the GFAP‐positive cells, respectively, while, the perivascular pseudorosette areas strongly and diffusely expressed GFAP. Nuclear mitosis and necrosis were not observed. The MIB‐1 antibody labeling index was especially low (about 3%). Based on these findings, the patient was diagnosed with cerebellar hemangioblastoma. In the present case, we documented a distinctive histological appearance of perivascular pseudorosettes in hemangioblastoma and provided the evidence for stromal cells with glial differentiation.
Developing an objective method for analyzing vital signs changes in neonates during general anesthesia
Authors: Görges Matthias , West Nicholas C. , Karlsdóttir Edda , Ansermino J. Mark , Cassidy Myles , Lauder Gillian R.
Published: August 2016

Background

Commonly used general anesthetics are considered to be neurotoxic to the developing rodent brain, leading to poor long‐term outcome. However, it is unclear whether these rodent studies can be extrapolated to the human neonate. Given that anesthesia for urgent neonatal surgery cannot be avoided, it is vitally important to assess other factors that may impact neurological outcome following anesthesia and surgery.

Objective

The purpose of this study is to identify thresholds for detecting vital sign deviations, which may have the potential for affecting neurological outcome following anesthesia and surgery in neonates. These data may be suitable to identify targets for prospective quality improvement projects and guide future research for strategies to reduce detrimental neurocognitive outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of vital sign data was performed for neonates (age ≤28 days), undergoing noncardiac surgery over a 4‐year period (2010–2013). Thresholds for detecting bradycardia, tachycardia, hypothermia, hyperthermia, hypertension, hypotension, hypocarbia, hypoxemia, significant changes in mean arterial blood pressure, and periods of high inspired oxygen concentration, were proposed. Selected chart review, to identify additional risk factors, and identify sources of data artifact, was performed for 224 cases.

Results

Data from 435 procedures in neonates, with median (IQR [range]) ages of 6 (2–16 [0–28]) days were available for analysis. Five (3–6 [0–12]) rule deviations per case were observed; only 11 cases had no rule deviations. Hypothermia was observed in 285/435 (70%), moderate hypocapnia in 298/430 (69%), and severe hypotension in 270/435 (62%) cases.

Conclusion

An objective method of comparing cases has been created with a method to automatically identify neonatal vital sign deviations. With further validation the method has the potential to be a powerful tool to drive future quality improvement projects in neonatal anesthesia.
“Are these adult doctors gonna know me?” Experiences of transition for young people with a liver transplant
Authors: Wright J. , Elwell L. , McDonagh J. E. , Kelly D. A. , Wray J.
Published: August 2016

Excellent survival rates in paediatric LTx have resulted in increasing numbers of young people transferring from paediatric to adult care. Understanding the mechanisms of successful transition is imperative for ensuring good long‐term outcomes and developing services for young people. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 17 young people (10 females; age range: 15.2–25.1 years). Eight were within 1 year of transferring to adult services; nine had transferred. Interviews were analysed using IPA. Analysis revealed two major themes in both pre‐ and post‐transfer groups: “relationships with healthcare professionals” and “continuity of care.” Young people experienced difficulty ending relationships with paediatric clinicians and forming new relationships with adult clinicians. They expressed frustrations over a perceived lack of continuity of care after transfer and a fear of the unknown nature of adult services. The importance of a holistic approach to care was emphasized. Interventions are needed to support young people in transition, particularly in ending relationships in paediatric care and forming new relationships in adult care. Young people need help to develop strategies to cope with the different approaches in adult services. Interventions to provide clinicians with skills to communicate and engage with young people are imperative.
Effects of concanavalin A on the progesterone production by bovine steroidogenic luteal cells in vitro
Authors: Destro FC , Martin I , Landim‐Alvarenga FDC , Ferreira JCP , Pate JL
Published: August 2016

Contents

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of concanavalin A (CONA) on the progesterone (P4) production by bovine steroidogenic luteal cells (LCs) in vitro. Luteal cells were collected during the mid‐luteal stage (at 10–12 days following ovulation) and processed in the laboratory. Luteal cells were grown for 7 days in a humid atmosphere with 5% CO2, with or without 10% foetal bovine serum, and were subjected to the following treatments: control: no treatment; CONA (10 μg/ml); LH (100 μg/ml); CONA + LH; LH (100 μg/ml) + prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) (10 ng/ml); CONA + LH + PGF2α. Samples of the culture media were collected on days 1 (D1) and 7 (D7) for P4 quantification. The cells were counted on D7 of culture. Differences between treatments were considered statistically significant at p < .05. Culture in the presence of CONA decreased the P4‐secreting capacity of LCs on D7 of culture, particularly in the absence of serum. The cell numbers did not change between treatments.
Productivity Measurement with Natural Capital
Authors: Brandt Nicola , Schreyer Paul , Zipperer Vera
Published: August 2016

This paper proposes a measurement framework that explicitly accounts for the role of natural capital in productivity measurement. It is applied to aggregate economy data from the OECD Productivity Database, with natural capital data from the World Bank. It is shown that the direction of the adjustment to productivity growth depends on the rate of change of natural capital extraction relative to the rate of change of other inputs. The extended framework also makes the contribution of natural capital to economic growth explicit. This can be useful for countries relying on non‐renewable resources to better understand the need to develop other sources of growth—human or productive capital—to prepare for times of scarcer resource endowments. The framework can readily be applied to more encompassing natural capital data, once it becomes available.
Treatment of End‐stage Kidney Failure without Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Hole Barnaby , Tonkin‐Crine Sarah , Caskey Fergus J. , Roderick Paul
Published: August 2016

For the majority of patients with end‐stage kidney failure (ESKF) replacement of excretory renal function by dialysis or transplantation (RRT) can extend life and alleviate symptoms. Historically, the availability of RRT has been insufficient and this remains the case for much of the world. However, RRT is now widely available in healthcare systems of higher income countries. Increasing numbers of elderly patients are developing ESKF. RRT in this population is largely by dialysis, comorbidity is high and life expectancy short. Evidence of effectiveness coupled with the burden of treatment among these individuals has raised concerns that health services in high‐income countries may have moved from an era of unmet need into one of potential over‐treatment. Alongside the requirement to make treatment more patient‐centered, this has driven the development of comprehensive conservative care as an alternative approach for older comorbid individuals with ESKF, with the potential for acceptable symptom control and reduced treatment burden. This paper provides a largely UK‐perspective on treating ESKF without RRT. Emphasis is on the need for high‐quality evidence to inform treatment decisions. Complexities of defining, delivering and improving treatment of ESKF without dialysis care are explored. Quantitative and qualitative evidence are summarized and the relationship with palliative and terminal care examined. A framework is suggested for classifying management of ESKF and recommendations made to improve delivery of nondialysis care in the future. For patients with a poor prognosis, such treatment may not result in significantly different survival or quality of life when compared with dialysis. There is a key need to generate the best possible evidence of person‐centered health outcomes associated with the various treatment options for ESKF and to present this to patients in a balanced, personalized way that allows them to make the treatment decision most appropriate for them.
Covering up Disfigurement and Laughing it Off: Reinforcing Inequality in Breast Cancer Support Groups
Authors: Clark Jacqueline
Published: August 2016

The present study examines how women in breast cancer support groups managed the emotions evoked by the physical disfigurement of their disease and its treatment. Four support groups located in central North Carolina were studied over an approximately three‐year period. Data derive from field observation of the four groups, in addition to 35 in‐depth interviews with group members and group leaders. Analysis shows how the women concealed their disfigurement, practiced compensatory femininity, and engaged in sexualized joking to cope with the embarrassment, shame, and self‐doubt resulting from changes to their bodies, including the loss of a breast and sometimes hair. While these strategies seemed to help the women feel better about themselves and their bodies, at least some of the time, analysis also shows how the strategies contributed to the reproduction of gender inequality, by reinforcing traditional standards of beauty and the gendered expression of emotions.
Limited effects of land use on soil dissolved organic matter chemistry as assessed by excitation–emission fluorescence spectroscopy and molecular weight fractionation
Authors: Roberts P. , Gibbons J. M. , Hill P. W. , Jones D. L. , Farrell M.
Published: August 2016

Dissolved organic matter (DOM) in soil solution represents a complex mixture of organic molecules and plays a central role in carbon and nitrogen cycling in plant–microbial–soil systems. We tested whether excitation–emission matrix (EEM) fluorescence spectroscopy can be used to characterize DOM and support previous findings that the majority of DOM is of high molecular weight (MW). EEM fluorescence spectroscopy was used in conjunction with MW fractionation to characterize DOM in soil solution from a grassland soil land management gradient in North Wales, UK. Data analysis suggested that three distinct fluorescence components could be separated and identified from the EEM data. These components were identified as being of humic‐like or fulvic‐like origin. Contrary to expectations, the majority of the fluorescence signal occurred in the small MW (<1 kDa) fraction, although differences between soils from the differently managed grasslands were more apparent in larger MW fractions. We conclude that following further characterization of the chemical composition of the fluorophores, EEM has potential as a sensitive technique for characterizing the small MW phenolic fraction of DOM in soils.
Phylogeny of Myrmeleontiformia based on larval morphology (Neuropterida: Neuroptera)
Authors: BADANO DAVIDE , ASPÖCK ULRIKE , ASPÖCK HORST , CERRETTI PIERFILIPPO
Published: August 2016

The suborder Myrmeleontiformia is a derived lineage of lacewings (Insecta: Neuroptera) including the families Psychopsidae, Nemopteridae, Nymphidae, Ascalaphidae and Myrmeleontidae. In particular, Myrmeleontidae (antlions) are the most diverse neuropteran family, representing a conspicuous component of the insect fauna of xeric environments. We present the first detailed quantitative phylogenetic analysis of Myrmeleontiformia, based on 107 larval morphological and behavioural characters for 36 genera whose larvae are known (including at least one representative of all the subfamilies of the suborder). Four related families were used as outgroups to polarize character states. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted using both parsimony and Bayesian methods. The reconstructions resulting from our analyses corroborate the monophyly of Myrmeleontiformia. Within this clade, Psychopsidae are recovered as the sister family to all the remaining taxa. Nemopteridae (including both subfamilies Nemopterinae and Crocinae) are recovered as monophyletic and sister to the clade comprising Nymphidae + (Myrmeleontidae + Ascalaphidae). Nymphidae consist of two well‐supported clades corresponding to the subfamilies Nymphinae and Myiodactylinae. Our results suggest that Ascalaphidae may not be monophyletic, as they collapse into an unresolved polytomy under the Bayesian analysis. In addition, the recovered phylogenetic relationships diverge from the traditional classification scheme for ascalaphids. Myrmeleontidae are reconstructed as monophyletic, with the subfamilies Stilbopteryginae, Palparinae and Myrmeleontinae. We retrieved a strongly supported clade comprising taxa with a fossorial habit of the preimaginal instars, which represents a major antlion radiation, also including the monophyletic pit‐trap building species.
Commemorative atmospheres: memorial sites, collective events and the experience of national identity
Authors: Sumartojo Shanti
Published: August 2016

In Australia as elsewhere, shared annual commemorative ceremonies such as those on Anzac Day, 25 April, help to connect residents to particular versions of the nation, to the past and to each other. This article investigates what can be gained by pairing the concept of commemoration – a set of practices and narratives that draw together national identity, collective and individual memory, grief and mourning, regular ritual, collectivity and material, aesthetic representations of war and death – with atmosphere and its dynamic combination of space, sensory experience, affect, individual memory and experience and the material environment. It introduces the notion of ‘commemorative atmospheres’ to explore how such events ‘feel’, arguing that spatially‐specific affective experience can work to connect individuals to the nation. The article builds on scholarship that explores how memorial sites symbolically express aspects of national history and memory, linking this to accounts of how atmospheres can be constituted by architectural form and the material and aesthetic aspects of space. It uses recent research on Australian Anzac Day ceremonies to identify the different spatial elements that contribute to the moods of these events, and explores how these interweave with first‐hand experience of the ceremonies and established national narratives. It also considers the sensory perception of commemorative events, identifying how these aspects link to discursive elements, helping to frame national identity for attendees at these ceremonies and potentially for a wider national audience.
Development of a multisystem surveillance database for transfusion‐transmitted infections among blood donors in the United States
Authors: Dodd Roger Y. , Notari Edward P. , Nelson Diane , Foster Gregory A. , Krysztof David E. , Kaidarova Zhanna , Milan‐Benson Lisa , Kessler Debra A. , Shaz Beth H. , Vahidnia Farnaz , Custer Brian , Stramer Susan L. ,   for the NHLBI Retrovirus Epidemiology Donor Study (REDS)‐II
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND

The frequency of positive test results for transfusion‐transmitted infections (TTIs) among blood donors is an important index of safety; thus, appropriate monitoring is critical, particularly when there are changes in policies affecting donor suitability.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Testing algorithms from three large blood systems were reviewed and consensus definitions for a surveillance‐positive result for hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and human T‐cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV) established. In addition, information on each donation, including donor demographics and location, was collected. Combined data were analyzed to characterize the epidemiology of TTIs by person, place, and time.

RESULTS

Data from 14.8 million donations were collected for 2011 to 2012, representing more than 50% of the US blood supply. Surveillance‐positive rates per 10,000 donations were as follows: HBV, 0.76; HCV, 2.0; HIV, 0.28; and HTLV 0.34. Rates did not vary between the 2 years, although there was variation within a year. With the exception of HTLV, rates were higher among males, and all rates were higher among first‐time donations. Window‐period donations (those positive only in nucleic acid tests) were infrequent (HBV, 13; HCV, 60; HIV, 14) during the 2‐year period. Frequencies of surveillance‐positive results varied by donor age and residence location.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated that standardized data from multiple major US blood systems can be combined and analyzed for change. However, TTI frequencies are low, impacting their sensitivity to change. Furthermore, observed fluctuations in TTI frequencies may be secondary to changes in blood donor demographics rather than necessarily reflecting the immediate impact of policy modification.
Fish oil prevents changes induced by a high‐fat diet on metabolism and adipokine secretion in mice subcutaneous and visceral adipocytes
Authors: de Sá Roberta D. C. da Cunha , Crisma Amanda R. , Cruz Maysa M. , Martins Amanda R. , Masi Laureane N. , do Amaral Catia L. , Curi R. , Alonso‐Vale Maria I. C.
Published: August 2016

Key points

Fish oil (FO), rich in omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, has beneficial effects on changes induced by obesity and partially prevents associated comorbidities.

The effects of FO on adipocytes from different adipose tissue depots in high‐fat (HF) diet induced obese mice have not been uninvestigated.

This is the first study to examine the effects of FO on changes in metabolism and adipokine production in adipocytes from s.c. (inguinal; ING) or visceral (retroperitoneal; RP) white adipose depots in a HF diet‐induced obese mice.

Unlike most studies performed previously, FO supplementation was initiated 4 weeks before the induction of obesity.

HF diet caused marked changes in ING (glucose uptake and secretion of adiponectin, tumour necrosis factor‐α and interleukin‐6 in ING) and RP (lipolysis, de novo lipogenesis and secretion of pro‐inflammatory cytokines) adipose depots.

Previous and concomitant FO administration prevented the changes in ING and RP adipocytes induced by the HF diet.

In the present study, we investigated the effect of fish oil (FO) on metabolism and adipokine production by adipocytes from s.c. (inguinal; ING) and visceral (retroperitoneal; RP) white adipose depots in high‐fat (HF) diet‐induced obese mice. Mice were divided into CO (control diet), CO+FO, HF and HF+FO groups. The HF group presented higher body weight, glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, higher plasma total and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, and greater weights of ING and RP adipose depots accompanied by hypertrophy of the adipocytes. FO exerted anti‐obesogenic effects associated with beneficial effects on dyslipidaemia and insulin resistance in mice fed a HF diet (HF+FO group). HF raised RP adipocyte lipolysis and the production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and reduced de novo synthesis of fatty acids, whereas, in ING adipocytes, it decreased glucose uptake and adiponectin secretion but did not change lipolysis. Therefore, the adipose depots play different roles in HF diet‐induced insulin resistance according to their location in the body. Concerning cytokine secretion, adipocytes per se in addition to white adopise tissue infiltrated leukocytes have to be considered in the aetiology of the comorbidities associated with obesity. Evidence is presented showing that previous and concomitant administration of FO can prevent changes in metabolism and the secretion of hormones and cytokines in ING and RP adipocytes induced by HF.