bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
pico‐PLAZA, a genome database of microbial photosynthetic eukaryotes
Authors: Vandepoele Klaas , Van Bel Michiel , Richard Guilhem , Van Landeghem Sofie , Verhelst Bram , Moreau Hervé , Van de Peer Yves , Grimsley Nigel , Piganeau Gwenael
Published: July 2013

With the advent of next generation genome sequencing, the number of sequenced algal genomes and transcriptomes is rapidly growing. Although a few genome portals exist to browse individual genome sequences, exploring complete genome information from multiple species for the analysis of user‐defined sequences or gene lists remains a major challenge. pico‐PLAZA is a web‐based resource (http://bioinformatics.psb.ugent.be/pico‐plaza/) for algal genomics that combines different data types with intuitive tools to explore genomic diversity, perform integrative evolutionary sequence analysis and study gene functions. Apart from homologous gene families, multiple sequence alignments, phylogenetic trees, Gene Ontology, InterPro and text‐mining functional annotations, different interactive viewers are available to study genome organization using gene collinearity and synteny information. Different search functions, documentation pages, export functions and an extensive glossary are available to guide non‐expert scientists. To illustrate the versatility of the platform, different case studies are presented demonstrating how pico‐PLAZA can be used to functionally characterize large‐scale EST/RNA‐Seq data sets and to perform environmental genomics. Functional enrichments analysis of 16 Phaeodactylum tricornutum transcriptome libraries offers a molecular view on diatom adaptation to different environments of ecological relevance. Furthermore, we show how complementary genomic data sources can easily be combined to identify marker genes to study the diversity and distribution of algal species, for example in metagenomes, or to quantify intraspecific diversity from environmental strains.
Planning Histories and Practices of Circulating Urban Knowledge
Authors: Harris Andrew , Moore Susan
Published: July 2013

This symposium creates and stimulates new dialogue and cross‐disciplinary exchange between planning theorists and geographers in researching the transfer of urban policy and planning models, ideas and techniques. The symposium challenges a restricted historical focus in much of the emerging geographical literature on urban policy mobilities by drawing on a rich tradition within planning history of exploring and documenting the trans‐urban travel of planning ideas and models over the last 150 years. It is argued that this longer‐term perspective is required to highlight important historical continuities and institutional legacies to contemporary urban policy circuits and pathways and to question what is particularly new, distinct and innovative about an intensification in the travel of urban ideas, plans and policies over the past decade — and the accompanying scholarly interest in them. The symposium also uses the emphasis on particular details and specific experiences within planning histories to foreground and develop approaches, particularly from recent geographical scholarship, that investigate the contingent and embodied practices and wider epistemic contexts that enable — or hinder — contemporary policy transfer.
Seasonal Variation of Carcass Decomposition and Gravesoil Chemistry in a Cold (Dfa) Climate
Authors: Meyer Jessica , Anderson Brianna , Carter David O.
Published: July 2013

It is well known that temperature significantly affects corpse decomposition. Yet relatively few taphonomy studies investigate the effects of seasonality on decomposition. Here, we propose the use of the Köppen‐Geiger climate classification system and describe the decomposition of swine (Sus scrofa domesticus) carcasses during the summer and winter near Lincoln, Nebraska, USA. Decomposition was scored, and gravesoil chemistry (total carbon, total nitrogen, ninhydrin‐reactive nitrogen, ammonium, nitrate, and soil pH) was assessed. Gross carcass decomposition in summer was three to seven times greater than in winter. Initial significant changes in gravesoil chemistry occurred following approximately 320 accumulated degree days, regardless of season. Furthermore, significant (p < 0.05) correlations were observed between ammonium and pH (positive correlation) and between nitrate and pH (negative correlation). We hope that future decomposition studies employ the Köppen‐Geiger climate classification system to understand the seasonality of corpse decomposition, to validate taphonomic methods, and to facilitate cross‐climate comparisons of carcass decomposition.
Applications of Social Network Media in Medicolegal Death Investigation
Authors: Hookano Ryan , Knight Laura D. , Brunelli Ronald A. , Stoppacher Robert
Published: July 2013

With the increased popularity of online social networking services (SNS) such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Google+, we propose that a wealth of new resources is available for medicolegal death investigation. Recognizing this potential, we identified cases in which social media had been useful in the past in our office and asked our investigative staff to consider using social media in current cases. These cases provided illustrative examples for this primer regarding how information from SNS was used in death investigations in our office. Information gleaned from online social media aided in establishing preliminary identification of a decedent, locating next‐of‐kin, investigating the circumstances of death as relevant to the manner of death, corroborating eyewitness accounts, and providing information relevant to time of death. Potential pitfalls were identified, such as shared accounts or online impostors. SNS proved useful to the medicolegal death investigator and medical examiner, so long as their limitations were recognized.
GABA Receptors, Alcohol Dependence and Criminal Behavior
Authors: Terranova Claudio , Tucci Marianna , Sartore Daniela , Cavarzeran Fabiano , Di Pietra Laura , Barzon Luisa , Palù Giorgio , Ferrara Santo D.
Published: July 2013

The aim of this study was to analyze the connection between alcohol dependence and criminal behavior by an integrated genetic–environmental approach. The research, structured as a case–control study, examined 186 alcohol‐dependent males; group 1 (N = 47 convicted subjects) was compared with group 2 (N = 139 no previous criminal records). Genetic results were innovative, highlighting differences in genotype distribution (p = 0.0067) in group 1 for single‐nucleotide polymorphism rs 3780428, located in the intronic region of subunit 2 of the GABA B receptor gene (GABBR2). Some environmental factors (e.g., grade repetition) were associated with criminal behavior; others (e.g., attendance at Alcoholics Anonymous) were inversely related to convictions. The concomitant presence of the genetic and environmental factors found to be associated with the condition of alcohol‐dependent inmate showed a 4‐fold increase in the risk of antisocial behavior. The results need to be replicated on a larger population to develop new preventive and therapeutic proposals.
In VivoFacial Tissue Depth for Canadian Aboriginal Children: A Case Study from Nova Scotia, Canada
Authors: Peckmann Tanya R. , Manhein Mary H. , Listi Ginesse A. , Fournier Michel
Published: July 2013

This study examines facial tissue depth in Canadian Aboriginal children. Using ultrasound, measurements were taken at 19 points on the faces of 392 individuals aged 3–18 years old. The relationships between tissue thickness, age, and sex were investigated. A positive linear trend may exist between tissue thickness and age forAboriginal females and males at multiple points. No points show significant differences in facial tissue depth between males and females aged 3–8 years old; seven points show significant differences in facial tissue depth between males and females aged 9–13 years old; and five points show significant differences in facial tissue depth between males and females aged 14–18 years old. Comparisons were made withWhiteAmericans andAfricanNovaScotians. These data can assist in 3‐Dfacial reconstructions and aid in establishing an individual's identity. Previously, no data existed for facial tissue thickness inCanadianAboriginal populations.
Medicolegal Characteristics of Firearm Homicides in Belgrade, Serbia: Before, During, and After the War in the Former Yugoslavia
Authors: Rancic Nemanja , Erceg Milena , Radojevic Nemanja , Savic Slobodan
Published: July 2013

A comparative analysis of firearm homicides committed in Belgrade was performed including four representative years: 1987 (before the civil war in the Former Yugoslavia), 1991 (beginning of the war), 1997 (end of the war), and 2007 (period of social stabilization). The increase in the number of homicides was established in 1991 and 1997 compared with 1987, with the decrease in 2007, but with the continuous increase in the percentage of firearm homicides in the total number of homicides, from 12% in 1987 up to 56% in 2007. The significant increase in firearm homicides during the last decade of the 20th century can be explained by the social disturbances and the high availability of firearms, while their reduction in 2007 could be linked to the gradual stabilization of social circumstances. The results showed that the actual social, political, and economical changes strongly influenced medicolegal characteristics of homicides and particularly firearm homicides.
Proteomic Analysis of Proteins Eliminated by Low‐Density Lipoprotein Apheresis
Authors: Yuasa Yumiko , Osaki Tsukasa , Makino Hisashi , Iwamoto Noriyuki , Kishimoto Ichiro , Usami Makoto , Minamino Naoto , Harada‐Shiba Mariko
Published: July 2013

Low‐density lipoprotein apheresis (LDL‐A) treatment has been shown to decrease serum LDL cholesterol levels and prevent cardiovascular events in homozygous patients with familial hypercholesterolemia. Recently, LDL‐A treatment has been suggested to have beneficial effects beyond the removal of LDL particles. In this study, to clarify the preventive effects of LDL‐A treatment on atherosclerosis, the waste fluid from the adsorption columns was analyzed. The waste fluid of LDL adsorption columns was analyzed by two‐dimensional electrophoresis followed by mass spectrometry. Serum concentrations of the newly identified proteins before and after LDL‐A treatment were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. We identified 48 kinds of proteins in the waste fluid of LDL adsorption columns, including coagulation factors, thrombogenic factors, complement factors, inflammatory factors and adhesion molecules. In addition to the proteins that were reported to be removed by LDL‐A treatment, we newly identified several proteins that have some significant roles in the development of atherosclerosis, including vitronectin and apolipoprotein C‐III (Apo C‐III). The serum levels of vitronectin and Apo C‐III decreased by 82.4% and 54.8%, respectively, after a single LDL‐A treatment. While Apo C‐III was removed with very low‐density lipoprotein (VLDL) and LDL, vitronectin was removed without association with lipoproteins. The removal of proteins observed in the waste fluid has a certain impact on their serum levels, and this may be related to the efficacy of LDL‐A treatment. Proteomic analysis of the waste fluid of LDL adsorption columns may provide a rational means of assessing the effects of LDL‐A treatment.
Association of Increased Indoleamine 2, 3‐Dioxygenase With Impaired Natural Killer Cell Activity in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Tanaka Asuka , Kato Akihiko , Suzuki Yuzo , Suzuki Masako , Ohmori Hiromitsu , Sumimoto Ryo , Ohdan Hideki
Published: July 2013

Indoleamine 2, 3‐dioxygenase (IDO) suppresses adaptive immune response. However, there was no study to examine whether IDO activity is associated with immune parameters in dialysis patients. In this study, we estimated serum IDO activity by the kynurenine/tryptophan ratio (KTR), and compared KTR with natural killer (NK) cell activity, soluble interleukin‐2 receptor (sIL‐2R) and serum levels of trace elements such as selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) that affect T‐cell function in 28 hemodialysis (HD) patients (age: 72 ± 13 years old, time on HD: 79 ± 89 months). NK cell activity was decreased in 35.7% of the patients. KTR values were almost 10‐times higher in HD patients (380.81 ± 385.46 mM/M) than those in the referred controls (32.9 ± 9.10 mM/M). KTR was lower in patients with impaired NK cell activity than those without (279 ± 111 vs. 565 ± 603 mM/M, P = 0.07). There was no relationship between KTR and sIL‐2R and Zn, while KTR was significantly and negatively correlated with serum Se levels that can impair cellular immunity (r = −0.41, P < 0.05). Our findings suggest that increased IDO activity with Se deficiency may be associated with impaired NK cell function in HD patients.
Trichodermaspecies onAgaricus bisporusfarms in Serbia and their biocontrol
Authors: Kosanović D. , Potočnik I. , Duduk B. , Vukojević J. , Stajić M. , Rekanović E. , Milijašević‐Marčić S.
Published: July 2013

TwentyTrichodermaisolates were collected on 13 SerbianAgaricus bisporusfarms and one in Bosnia and Herzegovina during 2006–2010. Twelve isolates were classified into five species by standard mycological studies andITS1/ITS4sequence analyses, namelyTrichoderma atroviride,Trichoderma koningii,Trichoderma virens,Trichoderma aggressivumf.europaeumandTrichoderma harzianum. Eight isolates were not identified to the species level but were shown to be related toT. harzianum. The isolates ofT. harzianumexhibited the highest virulence to the harvestedA. bisporuspilei andT. virensandT. aggressivumf. europaeumthe lowest. Antifungal activity of two biofungicides based onBacillus subtilisand tea tree oil and the fungicide prochloraz manganese were testedin vitroto allTrichodermaisolates. Prochloraz manganese andB. subtiliswere highly toxic to all testedTrichodermaisolates, theirED50values were below 0.3 and 1.3 mg L−1, respectively. Tea tree oil did not exhibit a significant antifungal activity (ED50 = 11.9–370.8 mg L−1). The effectiveness of biofungicides was evaluated againstT. harzianumin a mushroom growing room, and they were applied alone or in combination with the fungicide at a respective proportion of 20:80%. Prochloraz manganese showed higher effectiveness than both tested biofungicides or their respective mixtures. The biofungicide based onB. subtilisdemonstrated greater effectiveness in preventing disease symptoms than tea tree oil.B. subtiliscombined with the fungicide revealed less antagonism in effectiveness against pathogen than tea tree oil.
Habitat suitability modelling and implications for management of roan antelopes in Kenya
Authors: Kimanzi Johnstone K. , Sanderson Roy A. , Rushton Stephen P.
Published: July 2013

The roan antelope is locally endangered in Kenya with <50 individuals remaining in Ruma National Park (RNP). An understanding of the habitat requirements is essential to formulate habitat management strategies for species recovery. This study identifies habitat and management features affecting roan distribution in different seasons using information‐theoretic and multimodel inference (MMI) techniques. MMI averaged models were coupled with GIS data to develop habitat suitability maps. Results showed that roan habitat suitability is determined by different factors in different seasons but overall habitat was more important than management. Best predictors of roan incidence were wooded grassland, open grassland and water points. Water was more significant in the dry season whilst vegetation burned status, slope, soil type, distances to snares, park fence and security gates were important predictors at other seasons. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) plots confirmed that the models fitted well to the data (AUC>0.9). Sustainable conservation of roans in RNP can be achieved via long‐term habitat management including prescribed burning and construction of more water points and short‐term urgent solutions to key management issues, especially control of poaching.
Effects of Atrial Natriuretic Peptide After Prolonged Hypothermic Storage of the Isolated Rat Heart
Authors: Kanamitsu Hitoshi , Fujii Yasuhiro , Mitsui Hideya , Sano Shunji
Published: July 2013

Primary graft failure (PGF) caused by ischemia‐reperfusion injury (IRI) is the strongest determinant of perioperative mortality after heart transplantation. Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) has been found to reduce the IRI of cardiomyocytes and may be beneficial in alleviating PGF after heart transplantation, although there is a lack of evidence to support this issue. The purpose of this study was to investigate the cardioprotective effects of ANP after prolonged hypothermic storage. For this purpose, an isolated working‐heart rat model was used. After the preparation, the hearts were arrested with and stored in an extracellular‐based cardioplegic solution at 3–4°C for 6 h and followed by 25 min of reperfusion. The hearts were divided into four groups (n = 7 in each group) according to the timing of ANP administration: Group 1 (in perfusate before storage), Group 2 (in cardioplegia), Group 3 (in reperfusate), and control (no administration of ANP). Left ventricular functional recovery and the incidence of ventricular fibrillation (VF) were compared. ANP administration at the time of reperfusion improved the percent recovery of left ventricular developed pressure (control, 45.5 ± 10.2; Group 1, 47.4 ± 8.8; Group 2, 45.3 ± 12 vs. Group 3, 76.3 ± 7; P < 0.05) and maximum first derivative of the left ventricular pressure (control, 47.9 ± 8.7; Group 1, 46.7 ± 8.8; Group 2, 49.6 ± 10.8 vs. Group 3, 76.6 ± 7.5; P < 0.05). The incidence of VF after reperfusion did not differ significantly among these four groups (71.4, 85.7, 57.1, and 85.7% in Groups 1, 2, 3, and control, respectively). This result suggests that the administration of ANP at the time of reperfusion may have the potential to decrease the incidence of PGF after heart transplantation.
Flow patterns on spectral‐domain optical coherence tomography reveal flow directions at retinal vessel bifurcations
Authors: Willerslev Anne , Li Xiao Q. , Munch Inger C. , Larsen Michael
Published: July 2013

Purpose:  To study intravascular characteristics of flowing blood in retinal vessels using spectral‐domain optical coherence tomography (SD‐OCT).

Methods:  Examination of selected arterial bifurcations and venous sites of confluence in 25 healthy 11‐year‐old children recruited as an ad hoc subsample from the population‐based, observational Copenhagen Child Cohort 2000 study.

Results:  The blood stream in retinal arteries maintains a figure‐of‐8 SD‐OCT profile consistent with a laminar flow in concentric sheets and a parabolic velocity distribution up to the point of divergence at arterial bifurcations. In contrast, the blood stream at the site of confluence of two retinal veins remains divided into two parallel sets of sheets with separate velocity distribution for a downstream distance of at least four trunk vessel diameters. Consequently, retinal trunk vessels near bifurcations/confluences have distinctly different internal SD‐OCT profiles, a figure‐of‐8 pattern in arteries and a figure figure‐of‐88 in veins that can be used to distinguish between the two vessel types.

Conclusion:  This study verified the hypothesis that directions of blood flow at dichotomous vascular branchings can be determined using SD‐OCT. This feature may assist the identification of flow reversal near sites of vascular occlusion, the analysis of blood flow near vascular malformations and the segmentation of retinal SD‐OCT images.
e‐Leadership of school principals: Increasing school effectiveness by a school data management system
Authors: Blau Ina , Presser Ofer
Published: July 2013

In recent years, school management systems have become an important tool for effective e‐leadership and data‐based decision making. School management systems emphasize information flow and e‐communication between teachers, students and parents. This study examines e‐leadership by secondary‐school principals through the Mashov school management system, implemented in 500 Israeli schools in order to increase school effectiveness. Semistructured interviews were conducted at the end of academic year 2010/2011 with 10 participants: eight secondary‐school principals, a Ministry of Education supervisor, and a director of the school principals' training program. The results indicate that the system provides extensive support for school principals in managing the organization, delegating responsibilities and promoting e‐leadership by teaching staff and, consequently, increases the pedagogical effectiveness of their school. e‐Leadership through the school management system changes the entire school culture. It includes making data‐based decisions; monitoring curriculum implementation and learning performance; interacting with teachers, students and parents; improving the school climate; and raising the level of student and parental involvement. The results are discussed in terms of the islands‐of‐innovation and comprehensive‐innovation models of technology implementation. In order to enhance e‐leadership, we recommend that school principals expand the implementation of school management systems among students and parents, delegate e‐leadership responsibilities and monitor the level of teacher activity within the system.
The novel proteasome inhibitor carfilzomib induces cell cycle arrest, apoptosis and potentiates the anti‐tumour activity of chemotherapy in rituximab‐resistant lymphoma
Authors: Gu Juan J. , Hernandez‐Ilizaliturri Francisco J. , Kaufman Gregory P. , Czuczman Natalie M. , Mavis Cory , Skitzki Joseph J. , Czuczman Myron S.
Published: July 2013

Targeting the proteasome system with bortezomib (BTZ) results in anti‐tumour activity and potentiates the effects of chemotherapy/biological agents in multiple myeloma and B‐cell lymphoma. Carfilzomib (CFZ) is a more selective proteasome inhibitor that is structurally distinct from BTZ. In an attempt to characterize its biological activity, we evaluated CFZ in several lymphoma pre‐clinical models. Rituximab‐sensitive cell lines (RSCL), rituximab‐resistant cell lines (RRCL), and primary tumour cells derived from B‐cell lymphoma patients were exposed to CFZ or BTZ. Cell viability and changes in cell cycle were determined. Western blots were performed to detect PARP‐cleavage and/or changes in Bcl‐2 (BCL2) family members. CFZ was 10 times more active than BTZ and exhibited dose‐ and time‐dependent cytotoxicity. CFZ exposure induced apoptosis by upregulation of Bak (BAK1) and subsequent PARP cleavage in RSCL and RRCL; it was also partially caspase‐dependent. CFZ induced G2/M phase cell cycle arrest in RSCL. CFZ demonstrated the ability to overcome resistance to chemotherapy in RRCL and potentiated the anti‐tumour activity of chemotherapy agents. Our data suggest that CFZ is able to overcome resistance to chemotherapeutic agents, upregulate pro‐apoptotic proteins to promote apoptosis, and induce G2/M cell cycle arrest in lymphoma cells. Our pre‐clinical data supports future clinical evaluation of CFZ in B‐cell lymphoma.
Sweet and sour after renal transplantation: A qualitative study about the positive and negative consequences of renal transplantation
Authors: Schipper Karen , Abma Tineke A. , Koops Carina , Bakker Ineke , Sanderman Robbert , Schroevers Maya J.
Published: July 2013

Objectives

This qualitative study investigated the renal patients' experience of positive and negative consequences of transplantation, as well as the strategies they use to adapt to the transplantation.

Design and methods

A qualitative design (30 participants in total), using individual interviews (18 participants) and two focus groups (12 participants in total), was used.

Results

The results showed that patients experienced a wide range of positive and negative emotions, in particular, guilt, gratefulness, and fear, partly as a result of their normative persuasions. Normative persuasions may transform inherent positive emotions into negative emotions and subsequent maladaptive behaviour. Not only physical limitations but also physical improvements were found to be related to the experience of negative emotions. Finally, the results indicated that patients mainly used adaptive coping strategies to adjust to life after transplantation, such as looking for opportunities, setting different priorities, making own choices, trying to maintain control, taking good care of oneself, and appreciating other things in life.

Conclusions

This study offers several new insights regarding the range of experiences of renal patients after transplantation. Health professionals are invited to pay more attention to the full range of positive and negative experiences following transplantation, including the existence of normative persuasions. Health professionals may assist renal patients by helping them to recognize and acknowledge both positive and negative emotions and to encourage the use of more beneficial coping strategies.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

The quality of life (QoL) of renal patients significantly improves after transplantation but the post‐transplant QoL is lower compared with the QoL in healthy populations.

Patients on dialysis and those who have received a donor kidney tend to use mainly emotion‐focused coping strategies.

What does this study add?

This study offers several new insights regarding experiences of renal patients after transplantation:

Patients experience a range of positive and negative emotions like guilt, gratefulness, and fear.

Emotions are partly a result of normative persuasions.

Persuasions may transform positive emotions into negative emotions and maladaptive behaviour.

Physical limitations and improvements can due to the persuasions lead to negative emotions.

Patients mainly use adaptive coping strategies.
Destruction of the bladder by single dose Mitomycin C for low‐stage transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) – avoidance, recognition, management and consent
Authors: Elmamoun Mamoun H. , Christmas Tim J. , Woodhouse Christopher R.J.
Published: July 2013

Objectives

To identify a cohort of patients under our care who have had significant and in some cases irreparable damage to their bladders after Mitomycin C (MMC) instillation.

To highlight the importance of avoidance and recognition of bladder perforations during transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT) and explore the issue of consent regarding MMC given the serious complications that may occur after its instillation.

Patients and Methods

Patients referred to our tertiary centre for a second opinion to manage their complications after a suspected MMC leak was identified from the departmental database between January 2000 and December 2010.

After collection of all the records, we established a cohort of six patients.

All patients had their initial tumour resection elsewhere and were referred for specialist management thereafter. Details of the operating surgeon and cystoscopic findings were known only in half of the cases.

Retrospective analysis of their notes including documentation from the referring centre was undertaken. This included a review of all the histology and imaging.

Results

All patients had immediate severe pelvic pain on instillation of the MMC. Four of the six continue to have chronic pelvic pain.

Two patients had urinary retention and three had severe lower urinary tract symptoms. One patient developed a frozen pelvis.

Initial treatment was with an indwelling catheter for a period of 2–52 weeks to aid healing.

Two patients had reconstructive surgery, one with success and the other with failure, as an intestinal patch failed to close the fistula and he continues with a catheter. One patient had an ileal conduit.

No patient was warned of such complications.

Conclusions

Although rare, prophylactic MMC can have devastating consequences.

Patients should be aware of such major risks.

Strong emphasis should be placed on the quality of the initial TURBT coupled with the judgement of an experienced surgeon before to MMC instillation. The real clinical benefit could be reviewed and intravesical MMC offered only to patients who have a good chance of benefit.
Nephron‐sparing management vs radical nephroureterectomy for low‐ or moderate‐grade, low‐stage upper tract urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Simhan Jay , Smaldone Marc C. , Egleston Brian L. , Canter Daniel , Sterious Steven N. , Corcoran Anthony T. , Ginzburg Serge , Uzzo Robert G. , Kutikov Alexander
Published: July 2013

Objective

To compare overall and cancer‐specific outcomes between patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) managed with either radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) or nephron‐sparing measures (NSM) using a large population‐based dataset.

Patients and Methods

Using Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) data, patients diagnosed with low‐ or moderate‐grade, localised non‐invasive UTUC were stratified into two groups: those treated with RNU or NSM (observation, endoscopic ablation, or segmental ureterectomy).

Cancer‐specific mortality (CSM) and other‐cause mortality (OCM) rates were determined using cumulative incidence estimators. Adjusting for clinical and pathological characteristics, the associations between surgical type, all‐cause mortality and CSM were tested using Cox regressions and Fine and Gray regressions, respectively.

Results

Of 1227 patients [mean (sd) age 70.2 (11.00) years, 63.2% male] meeting inclusion criteria, 907 (73.9%) and 320 (26.1%) patients underwent RNU and NSM for low‐ or moderate‐grade, low‐stage UTUC from 1992 to 2008.

Patients undergoing NSM were older (mean age 71.6 vs 69.7 years, P < 0.01) with a greater proportion of well‐differentiated tumours (26.3% vs 18.0%, P = 0.001).

While there were differences in OCM between the groups (P < 0.01), CSM trends were equivalent. After adjustment, RNU treatment was associated with improved non‐cancer cause survival [hazard ratio (HR) 0.78, confidence interval [CI] 0.64–0.94) while no association with CSM was demonstrable (HR 0.89, CI 0.63–1.26).

Conclusions

Patients with low‐ or moderate‐grade, low‐stage UTUC managed through NSM are older and are more likely to die of other causes, but they have similar CSM rates to those patients managed with RNU.

These data may be useful when counselling patients with UTUC with significant competing comorbidities.
Robot‐assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) with intracorporeal neobladder – what is the effect of the learning curve on outcomes?
Authors: Collins Justin W. , Tyritzis Stavros , Nyberg Tommy , Schumacher Martin C. , Laurin Oscar , Adding Christofer , Jonsson Martin , Khazaeli Dinyar , Steineck Gunnar , Wiklund Peter , Hosseini Abolfazl
Published: July 2013

Objective

To evaluate the effect of the learning curve on operative, postoperative, and pathological outcomes of the first 67 totally intracorporeal robot‐assisted radical cystectomies (RARCs) with neobladders performed by two lead surgeons at Karolinska University Hospital.

Patients and Methods

Between December 2003 and October 2012, 67 patients (61 men and six women) underwent RARC with orthotopic urinary diversion by two main surgeons.

Data were collected prospectively on patient demographics, peri‐ and postoperative outcomes including operation times, conversion rates, blood loss, complication rates, pathological data and length of stay (LOS) for these 67 consecutive patients.

The two surgeons operated on 47 and 20 patients, respectively. The patients were divided into sequential groups of 10 in each individual surgeon's series and assessed for effect of the learning curve.

Results

Patient demographics and clinical characteristics were similar in both surgeons' groups. The overall total operation times trended down in both surgeons' series from a median time of 565 min in the first group of 10 cases, to a median of 345 min in the last group for surgeon A (P < 0.001) and 413 to 385 min for surgeon B (not statistically significant).

Risk of conversion to open surgery also decreased with a 30% conversion rate in the first group to zero in latter groups (P < 0.01).

Overall complications decreased as the learning curve progressed from 70% in the first group to 30% in the later groups (P < 0.05), although major complications were not statistically different when compared between the groups.

Patient demographics did not change over time. The mean estimated blood loss was unchanged across groups with increasing experience. The pathological staging, mean total lymph node yield and number of positive margins were also unchanged across groups.

There was a decrease in LOS from a mean of 19 days in the first group to a mean (range) of 9 (4–78) days in the later groups, although the median LOS was unchanged and therefore not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Totally intracorporeal RARC with intracorporeal neobladder is a complex procedure, but it can be performed safely, with a structured approach, at a high‐volume established robotic surgery centre without compromising perioperative and pathological outcomes during the learning curve for surgeons.

An experienced robotic team and mentor can impact the learning curve of a new surgeon in the same centre resulting in decreased operation times early in their personal series, reducing conversion rates and complication rates.
Electrocautery‐induced cavernous nerve injury in rats that mimics radical prostatectomy in humans
Authors: Song Lu‐Jie , Zhu Jian‐Qiang , Xie Min‐Kai , Wang Yong‐Chuan , Li Hong‐Bin , Cui Zhi‐Qiang , Lu Hong‐Kai , Xu Yue‐Min
Published: July 2013

Objective

To investigate the early and delayed effects of cavernous nerve electrocautery injury (CNEI) in a rat model, with the expectation that this model could be used to test rehabilitation therapies for erectile dysfunction (ED) after radical prostatectomy (RP).

Materials and Methods

In all, 30 male Sprague‐Dawley rats were randomly divided equally into two groups (15 per group). The control group received CNs exposure surgery only and the experimental group received bilateral CNEI.

At 1, 4 and 16 weeks after surgery (five rats at each time point), the ratio of maximal intracavernosal pressure (ICP) to mean arterial pressure (MAP) was measured in the two groups. Neurofilament expression in the dorsal penile nerves was assessed by immunofluorescent staining and Masson's trichrome staining was used to assess the smooth muscle to collagen ratio in both groups.

Results

At the 1‐week follow‐up, the mean ICP/MAP was significantly lower in the CNEI group compared with the control group, at 9.94% vs 70.06% (P < 0.05).

The mean ICP/MAP in the CNEI group was substantially increased at the 4‐ (35.97%) and 16‐week (37.11%) follow‐ups compared with the 1‐week follow‐up (P < 0.05).

At all three follow‐up time points, the CNEI group had significantly decreased neurofilament staining compared with the control group (P < 0.05). Also, neurofilament expressions in the CNEI group at both 4 and 16 weeks were significantly higher than that at 1 week (P < 0.05), but there was no difference between 4 and 16 weeks (P > 0.05).

The smooth muscle to collagen ratio in the CNEI group was significantly lower than in the control group at the 4‐ and 16‐week follow‐ups (P < 0.05), and the ratio at 16 weeks was further reduced compared with that at 4 weeks (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

In the CNEI rat model, we found the damaging effects of CNEI were accompanied by a decline in ICP, reduced numbers of nerve fibres in the dorsal penile nerve, and exacerbated fibrosis in the corpus cavernosum.

This may provide a basis for studying potential preventative measures or treatment strategies to ameliorate ED caused by CNEI during RP.
Secondary stability of microthickness hydroxyapatite‐coated dental implants installed without primary stability in dogs
Authors: Jung Ui‐Won , Kim Sungtae , Lee In‐Kyeong , Kim Min‐Soo , Lee Jung‐Seok , Kim Hee‐Jin
Published: July 2013

Objectives

The objective of this study was to evaluate the secondary stability of microthickness hydroxyapatite (HA)‐coated implants placed without primary stability in dogs.

Materials and methods

A total of 48 implants were placed in six dogs. The groups were divided according to the absence or presence of primary stability and healing periods (4 and 8 weeks). Two implants for histological analysis and removal torque test in experimental group were placed without primary stability, showing rotational movement. The other two implants in control group were placed with primary stability. Mechanical test values and histometric measurements were analyzed.

Results

The experimental group showed significant increase in a time‐dependent manner, while the mean values of the control group were constant in the mechanical tests. The HA layer remained intact, and substantial bone fragments were attached on the surface of the retrieved implant. All implants appeared to be in intimate contact with the host bone and without any inflammation after both 4 and 8 weeks of healing in histology.

Conclusion

The HA‐coated implants exhibited mechanically and histometrically comparable osseointegration after 4 weeks of healing, regardless of primary stability, and the HA‐coating layer demonstrated high resistance to exfoliation.
Cool water vs warm water immersion for minimal sedation colonoscopy: a double‐blind randomized trial
Authors: Falt P. , Šmajstrla V. , Fojtík P. , Tvrdík J. , Urban O.
Published: July 2013

Aim

Water‐aided insertion as an alternative colonoscopy technique reduces patient discomfort. Warm water has been used in most published trials, but the use of cool water is easier and, if equally effective, could support the use of the water‐aided technique in routine practice.

Method

A double‐blind, randomized, single‐centre study was performed in which 201 patients were randomized to either cool (20–24°C) or warm (37°C) water immersion insertion. The primary outcome was caecal intubation time. The success rate of minimal sedation and patient discomfort were also assessed.

Results

The caecal intubation time for cool and warm water was similar (6.9 ± 3.5 vs 7.0 ± 3.4 min, P = 0.64). The respective success rates of minimal sedation colonoscopy (89.1% vs 90%, P = 1.00) and discomfort (P = 0.51) were no different. All other outcomes except a greater need for abdominal compression in the cool water arm (P = 0.04) were similar including the total procedure time, terminal ileum intubation rate, adenoma detection, length of the inserted scope, water volume, non‐standard position rate, difficulty of the procedure and the patient's temperature sensation.

Conclusion

The use of cool water did not modify the caecal intubation time compared with warm water. Exception for abdominal compression, all other end‐points were no different. Cool water immersion is an alternative to the technically more demanding warm water immersion colonoscopy.
Impaired exercise capacity after lung transplantation is related to delayed recovery of muscle strength
Authors: Walsh James R. , Chambers Daniel C. , Davis Rebecca J. , Morris Norman R. , Seale Helen E. , Yerkovich Stephanie T. , Hopkins Peter M.A.
Published: July 2013

Lung transplant recipients report reduced exercise capacity despite satisfactory graft function. We analysed changes in lung function, six‐min walk distance (6MWD), and quadriceps strength in the first 26‐wk post‐transplant and examined what factors predict 6MWD recovery. All lung transplant recipients at a single institution between June 2007 and January 2011 were considered for inclusion. Lung function, 6MWD, and quadriceps strength corrected for body weight (QS%) were recorded pre‐ and two‐, six‐, 13‐, and 26‐wk post‐transplant. Fifty recipients, of mean (±SD) age 42 (±13) yr, were studied. Mean FEV1% and 6MWD improved from 26.4% to 88.9% and from 397 to 549 m at 26 wk, respectively (both p < 0.001). QS% declined in the first two wk but had improved to above pre‐transplant levels by 26 wk (p = 0.027). On multivariate analysis (n = 35), lower pre‐transplant exercise capacity and greater recovery in muscle strength explained most of the improvement in exercise capacity. Delayed recovery of exercise capacity after lung transplantation is unrelated to delay in improvement in graft function, but occurs secondary to the slow recovery of muscle strength. Our findings show that additional controlled trials are needed to better understand the influence of exercise rehabilitation on improvement in exercise capacity post‐transplantation.
Induction therapy in adult intestinal transplantation: reduced incidence of rejection with “2‐dose” alemtuzumab protocol
Authors: Lauro A. , Zanfi C. , Bagni A. , Cescon M. , Siniscalchi A. , Pellegrini S. , Pironi L. , Pinna A. D.
Published: July 2013

The incidence of early rejection after intestinal transplantation correlates with heightened risk of graft loss and mortality. Many different induction or pre‐conditioning protocols have been reported in the last 10 yr to improve outcomes; however, sepsis remains prevalent and diminishes long‐term results. We recently began a “2‐dose” alemtuzumab trial protocol – 15 mg at day 0 and 15 mg repeated on day 7 – with the hope of reducing our infection rate. We compared three different protocols used at our institution (daclizumab, conventional “4‐dose” alemtuzumab, and “2‐dose” alemtuzumab). There was a significantly lower rate of early rejection with the “2‐dose” alemtuzumab protocol in our study group of mainly (88%) intestinal grafts without accompanying liver engraftment with its protective immunologic effect. Sepsis remained low. Longer follow‐up will be required to evaluate the effects of this new protocol on longer‐term outcomes.
Infants use social context to bind actions into a collaborative sequence
Authors: Fawcett Christine , Gredebäck Gustaf
Published: July 2013

Eye tracking was used to show that 18‐month‐old infants are sensitive to social context as a sign that others’ actions are bound together as a collaborative sequence based on a joint goal. Infants observed five identical demonstrations in which Actor 1 moved a block to one location and Actor 2 moved the same block to a new location, creating a sequence of actions that could be considered either individual actions or collaboration. In the test phase, Actor 1 was alone and sitting so that she could reach both locations. The question was whether she would place a new block in the location she had previously (individual goal) or in the location that could be considered the goal of collaboration (joint goal). Importantly, in the Social condition, the actors were socially engaged with each other before and during the demonstration, while in the Non‐Social condition, they were not. Results revealed that infants in the Social condition spontaneously anticipated Actor 1 placing her block in the joint goal location more often than those in the Non‐Social condition. Thus, the social context seems to allow infants to bind actions into a collaborative sequence and anticipate joint rather than individual goals, giving insight into how actions are perceived using top‐down processing early in life.
Nesting habitat use by river chubs in a hydrologically variable Appalachian tailwater
Authors: Peoples Brandon K. , McManamay Ryan A. , Orth Donald J. , Frimpong Emmanuel A.
Published: July 2013

As hydrologic alteration continues to affect aquatic biodiversity, knowledge of the spawning requirements of fishes, especially ‘keystone’ or ‘foundation’ species, is critical for conservation and management. The objectives of this study were to quantify the spawning micro‐ and mesohabitat use of river chub Nocomis micropogon, a gravel mound nesting minnow, in a hydrologically regulated river in North Carolina, USA. At the microhabitat scale, substrate sizes on nests were compared with pebble counts in 1‐m2 adjacent quadrats. Average depths and current velocities at nests were compared with measurements from paired transects. At the mesohabitat scale, generalised linear mixed models (GLMMs) were used to identify the importance of average bed slope, average depth and percentages of rock outcrops (a measure of flow heterogeneity and velocity shelters) for predicting nest presence and abundance. To relate nesting activities to hydrologic alteration from dam operation, nest dimensions were measured before and after a scheduled discharge event approximately six times that of base flow. Additionally, linear regression was used to predict changes in the use of flow refugia and overhead cover with increased fluvial distance from the dam. Microhabitats in which nests were placed had, on average, slower current velocities and shallower depths. Gravel diameters of nests were significantly smaller than substrate particles adjacent to nests. GLMMs revealed that mesohabitats with nests were shallower, had more moderate slopes and greater proportions of rock outcrops than mesohabitats without nests. The scheduled discharge event significantly flattened nests. Near the dam, nests were built in close proximity (≤2 m) to velocity shelters; this relationship diminished with distance from the dam. River chubs are spawning habitat specialists. Because multiple species rely on river chub nests for reproduction and food, the needs of this species should be considered when managing instream flows.
School‐based eating disorder prevention: a pilot effectiveness trial of teacher‐delivered Media Smart
Authors: Wilksch Simon M.
Published: July 2013

Aim

This pilot study tested teacher‐delivered Media Smart, a school‐based eating disorder prevention program that has achieved significant benefits when delivered by health professionals.

Method

Two Grade 7 classes (N = 51; M age = 12.43 years) participated, with one randomly allocated to Media Smart (n = 27; 67% girls) and the other to a control condition of usual lessons (n = 24; 37% girls). Program feasibility was assessed by teacher self‐report, whereas student self‐report of shape and weight concern (primary outcome variable) and seven additional risk factors were measured at baseline, post‐program and 6‐month follow up.

Results

Teacher ratings of program feasibility revealed that 25 of the 29 (86.2%) program activities were taught with 96% of activities rated as either highly (19 activities) or moderately (5 activities) valuable for students. Mixed model analyses were conducted using a 2 (group: Media Smart, control) × 2 (time: post‐program, 6‐month follow up) × 2 (gender: girls, boys) design, with baseline scores as a covariate. A not‐significant trend for group favouring Media Smart was observed for shape and weight concern (Cohen's d effect size [d] = 0.32), whereas significant effects were found for feelings of ineffectiveness (d = 0.52) and weight‐related peer teasing (d = 0.68).

Conclusions

The program was feasible for teacher delivery and showed some promising results, supporting a more substantial randomized‐controlled effectiveness trial.