bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Higher resources decrease fluctuating selection during host–parasite coevolution
Authors: Lopez Pascua Laura , Hall Alex R. , Best Alex , Morgan Andrew D. , Boots Mike , Buckling Angus 
Published: August 2014

AbstractWe still know very little about how the environment influences coevolutionary dynamics. Here, we investigated both theoretically and empirically how nutrient availability affects the relative extent of escalation of resistance and infectivity (arms race dynamic; ARD) and fluctuating selection (fluctuating selection dynamic; FSD) in experimentally coevolving populations of bacteria and viruses. By comparing interactions between clones of bacteria and viruses both within‐ and between‐time points, we show that increasing nutrient availability resulted in coevolution shifting from FSD, with fluctuations in average infectivity and resistance ranges over time, to ARD. Our model shows that range fluctuations with lower nutrient availability can be explained both by elevated costs of resistance (a direct effect of nutrient availability), and reduced benefits of resistance when population sizes of hosts and parasites are lower (an indirect effect). Nutrient availability can therefore predictably and generally affect qualitative coevolutionary dynamics by both direct and indirect (mediated through ecological feedbacks) effects on costs of resistance.
A general ecophysiological framework for modelling the impact of pests and pathogens on forest ecosystems.
Authors: Dietze Michael C. , Matthes Jaclyn Hatala 
Published: August 2014

AbstractForest insects and pathogens (FIPs) have enormous impacts on community dynamics, carbon storage and ecosystem services, however, ecosystem modelling of FIPs is limited due to their variability in severity and extent. We present a general framework for modelling FIP disturbances through their impacts on tree ecophysiology. Five pathways are identified as the basis for functional groupings: increases in leaf, stem and root turnover, and reductions in phloem and xylem transport. A simple ecophysiological model was used to explore the sensitivity of forest growth, mortality and ecosystem fluxes to varying outbreak severity. Across all pathways, low infection was associated with growth reduction but limited mortality. Moderate infection led to individual tree mortality, whereas high levels led to stand‐level die‐offs delayed over multiple years. Delayed mortality is consistent with observations and critical for capturing biophysical, biogeochemical and successional responses. This framework enables novel predictions under present and future global change scenarios.
Epileptic scalp ripples are associated with corticothalamic BOLD changes
Authors: Fahoum Firas , Melani Federico , Andrade‐Valença Luciana , Dubeau François , Gotman Jean 
Published: August 2014

SummaryObjectiveInterictal high frequency oscillations (HFOs) in the 40–200 Hz range have been identified in scalp electroencephalography (EEG) recordings of patients with focal epilepsy. HFOs usually co‐occur with interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs), and are specific and accurate markers for the epileptic focus, but the brain regions involved when HFOs are generated are unknown. We investigated this question with combined EEG–functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), measuring the blood oxygenation level–dependent (BOLD) signal, and examined HFOs in the gamma (40–80 Hz) and ripple (80–200 Hz) bands.MethodsTwenty‐eight consecutive patients with focal epilepsy who underwent HFO and EEG‐fMRI studies were selected; six were excluded because of negative EEG‐fMRI. The remaining 22 patients were divided into two equal groups (11 patients each) based on the frequency of co‐occurrence of gamma or ripples with IEDs: low versus high gamma (LG/HG) and low versus high ripples (LR/HR).ResultsNo significant changes were found in the BOLD characteristics between the LG and HG groups. As a group, HR had a larger IED concordant BOLD cluster than the LR group, despite similar IED rates. In addition, the HR group had significantly more thalamic BOLD changes than the LR group (11/11 vs. 2/11). In HR, 5 of 11 patients had thalamic activation only, 4 of 11 had thalamic deactivation only, and 2 of 11 had activation and deactivation in different thalamic regions. In the LR group, 2 of 11 had thalamic activation. The lateralization of thalamic BOLD responses was concordant with the lateralization of cortical ripples in 12 of 13 patients.SignificanceScalp IEDs, when frequently accompanied by HFOs in the ripple but not in the gamma band, are associated with larger cortical metabolic responses and with thalamic involvement lateralized to the side of cortical ripples. We propose that a high rate of epileptic ripples is associated with a more active pathologic cortical‐thalamocortical network.
Rhinotomy to access lesions within the nasal cavity of two horses
Authors: Barakzai S. Z. 
Published: August 2014

SummaryMost lesions that affect the nasal cavity of the horse can be accessed via the nostril or via a frontonasal sinus flap but occasionally, surgical access to the mid‐portion of the nasal cavity is necessary. This case report describes the use of a centrally based, 3‐sided rhinotomy which provided good access to the ipsilateral nasal cavity and allowed for removal of abnormal tissue/foreign material in two horses. The nasal bone flap was preserved and only relatively mild intraoperative haemorrhage occurred which was controlled with nasal packing. Horses recovered well from surgery with an excellent long‐term cosmetic result.
Trigger Point Injections for Headache Disorders: Expert Consensus Methodology and Narrative Review
Authors: Robbins Matthew S. , Kuruvilla Deena , Blumenfeld Andrew , Charleston Larry , Sorrell Michael , Robertson Carrie E. , Grosberg Brian M. , Bender Steven D. , Napchan Uri , Ashkenazi Avi 
Published: August 2014

Objective/BackgroundTo review the existing literature and describe a standardized methodology by expert consensus for the performance of trigger point injections (TPIs) in the treatment of headache disorders. Despite their widespread use, the efficacy, safety, and methodology of TPIs have not been reviewed specifically for headache disorders by expert consensus.MethodsThe Peripheral Nerve Blocks and Other Interventional Procedures Special Interest Section of the American Headache Society over a series of meetings reached a consensus for nomenclature, indications, contraindications, precautions, procedural details, outcomes, and adverse effects for the use of TPIs for headache disorders. A subcommittee of the Section also reviewed the literature.ResultsIndications for TPIs may include many types of episodic and chronic primary and secondary headache disorders, with the presence of active trigger points (TPs) on physical examination. Contraindications may include infection, a local open skull defect, or an anesthetic allergy, and precautions are necessary in the setting of anticoagulant use, pregnancy, and obesity with unclear anatomical landmarks. The most common muscles selected for TPIs include the trapezius, sternocleidomastoid, and temporalis, with bupivacaine and lidocaine the agents used most frequently. Adverse effects are typically mild with careful patient and procedural selection, though pneumothorax and other serious adverse events have been infrequently reported.ConclusionsWhen performed in the appropriate setting and with the proper expertise, TPIs seem to have a role in the adjunctive treatment of the most common headache disorders. We hope our effort to characterize the methodology of TPIs by expert opinion in the context of published data motivates the performance of evidence‐based and standardized treatment protocols.
Lower levels of insulin‐like growth factor‐1 standard deviation score are associated with histological severity of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Sumida Yoshio , Yonei Yoshikazu , Tanaka Saiyu , Mori Kojiroh , Kanemasa Kazuyuki , Imai Shunsuke , Taketani Hiroyoshi , Hara Tasuku , Seko Yuya , Ishiba Hiroshi , Okajima Akira , Yamaguchi Kanji , Moriguchi Michihisa , Mitsuyoshi Hironori , Yasui Kohichiroh , Minami Masahito , Itoh Yoshito 
Published: August 2014

AimGrowth hormone (GH) deficiency may be associated with histological progression of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) which includes non‐alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) and non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1) is mainly produced by hepatocytes and its secretion is stimulated by GH. Our aim was to determine whether more histologically advanced NAFLD is associated with low circulating levels of IGF‐1 in Japanese patients.MethodsSerum samples were obtained in 199 Japanese patients with biopsy‐proven NAFLD and in 2911 sex‐ and age‐matched healthy people undergoing health checkups. The serum levels of IGF‐1 were measured using a commercially available immunoradiometric assay. The standard deviation scores (SDS) of IGF‐1 according to age and sex were also calculated in NAFLD patients.ResultsThe serum IGF‐1 levels in NAFLD patients were significantly lower (median, 112 ng/mL) compared with the control population (median, 121 ng/mL, P < 0.0001). IGF‐1 SDS less than −2.0 SD from median were found in 11.6% of 199 patients. NASH patients exhibited significantly lower levels of IGF‐1 SDS (n = 130; median, −0.7) compared with NAFL patients (n = 69; median, −0.3; P = 0.026). The IGF‐1 SDS values decreased significantly with increasing lobular inflammation (P < 0.001) and fibrosis (P < 0.001). In multiple regressions, the association between the IGF‐1 SDS values and the severity of NAFLD persisted after adjusting for age, sex and insulin resistance.ConclusionLow levels of circulating IGF‐1 may have a role in the development of advanced NAFLD, independent of insulin resistance. Supplementation with GH/IGF‐1 may be a candidate for the treatment of NASH.
Structural and Spectroscopic Properties of δ‐Y2Si2O7 Nanopowders Activated with Nd3+ Ions
Authors: Erdem Murat , Ekmekci Mete Kaan , Orucu Humeyra , Bilir Gokhan 
Published: August 2014

Phosphors of δ‐Y2Si2O7 doped with Nd3+ ions were prepared in the SiO2–Y2O3 binary systems using the solgel technique. Nano‐sized crystalline phosphor powders were obtained by annealing the dried gels at 1480°C. The average grain sizes of the NYS1, NYS2, NYS3, and NYS4, powders were estimated to be 44.1, 41.3, 48.1, and 53.2 nm from the grain size distribution curves, respectively, and these results were confirmed by transmission electron microscope measurements. The spectroscopic properties of the powders were studied by measuring the luminescence spectra, and the decay curves of the 4F3/2 emission level were measured at room temperature.
Contribution of stone size to chronic kidney disease in kidney stone formers
Authors: Ahmadi Farrokhlagha , Etemadi Samira Motedayen , Lessan‐Pezeshki Mahbob , Mahdavi‐Mazdeh Mitra , Ayati Mohsen , Mir Alireza , Yazdi Hadi Rokni 
Published: August 2014

ObjectivesTo determine whether stone burden correlates with the degree of chronic kidney disease in kidney stone formers.MethodsA total of 97 extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy candidates aged 18 years and older were included. Size, number and location of the kidney stones, along with cumulative stone size, defined as the sum of diameters of all stones) were determined. Estimated glomerular filtration rate was determined using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration cystatin C/creatinine equation, and chronic kidney disease was defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min/1.73 m2.ResultsIn individuals with cumulative stone size <20 mm, estimated glomerular filtration rate significantly decreased when moving from the first (estimated glomerular filtration rate 75.5 ± 17.8 mL/min/1.73 m2) to the fourth (estimated glomerular filtration rate 56.4 ± 20.44 mL/min/1.73 m2) quartile (P = 0.004). When patients with a cumulative stone size ≥20 mm were included, the observed association was rendered non‐significant. In individuals with a cumulative stone size <20 mm, each 1‐mm increase in cumulative stone size was associated with a 20% increased risk of having chronic kidney disease. The relationship persisted even after adjustment for age, sex, body mass index, C‐reactive protein, fasting plasma glucose, thyroid stimulating hormone, presence of microalbuminuria, history of renal calculi, history of extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy, number and location of the stones (odds ratio 1.24, 95% confidence interval 1.02–1.52). The same was not observed for individuals with a cumulative stone size ≥20 mm.ConclusionsIn kidney stone formers with a cumulative stone size up to 20 mm, estimated glomerular filtration rate linearly declines with increasing cumulative stone size. Additionally, cumulative stone size is an independent predictor of chronic kidney disease in this group of patients.
Systematic review and meta‐analysis of the accuracy of clinical indicators for ineffective airway clearance
Authors: de Sousa Vanessa Emille Carvalho , Lopes Marcos Venícios de Oliveira , da Silva Viviane Martins 
Published: August 2014

AbstractAimTo report quantitative evidence for the accuracy of the defining characteristics of ineffective airway clearance in different settings and populations.BackgroundDefining characteristics are tests used by nurses to clinically indicate the presence or absence of a particular nursing diagnosis. A few studies have reported the accuracy of certain defining characteristics of ineffective airway clearance, but these studies address specific populations with particular needs.DesignA systematic review with meta‐analysis was conducted to provide a synthesis and critical appraisal of the included studies.Data sourcesThe electronic databasesCINAHL, PubMed, Scopus andLILACSwere searched using a systematic search strategy for studies published in any year. The last search was performed on 31 July 2013.Review methodsUsing the recommendations from Cochrane Collaboration for Systematic Reviews of Diagnostic Test Accuracy and the Standards for Reporting of Diagnostic Accuracy (STARD), a systematic review was conducted using studies investigating the presence of ineffective airway clearance and its defining characteristics. The Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS) tool was used to evaluate the quality of the studies.ResultsSeven papers met the search criteria. The studies were developed in different clinical settings and most of them fulfilledQUADAScriteria. Summary measures indicated the following defining characteristics with higher accuracy values: adventitious breath sounds, changes in respiratory rate, difficult vocalizing, diminished breath sounds, dyspnoea, ineffective cough, orthopnoea and restlessness.ConclusionThis systematic review showed that the variability in clinical indicators of ineffective airway clearance is related to differences in the clinical settings and patients.
The effects of bisphosphonate zoledronic acid in hepatocellular carcinoma, depending on mevalonate pathway
Authors: Honda Yohji , Takahashi Shoichi , Zhang Yizhou , Ono Atsushi , Murakami Eisuke , Shi Niu , Kawaoka Tomokazu , Miki Daiki , Tsuge Masataka , Hiraga Nobuhiko , Abe Hiromi , Ochi Hidenori , Imamura Michio , Aikata Hiroshi , Chayama Kazuaki 
Published: August 2014

AbstractBackground and AimZoledronic acid (ZOL) is a nitrogen‐containing bisphosphonate and is used to reduce cancer‐induced osteolysis. We reported previously that ZOL delayed both the growth and pain progression of bone metastases from hepatocellular carcinoma. The present study was designed to evaluate the effects of ZOL on hepatoma cell lines and the molecular mechanisms of such effects.MethodsCell viability assay, scratch assay, immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and flow cytometry analysis were performed using Huh7 and HepG2 cells treated with and without ZOL.ResultsZOL reduced cell growth in a dose‐dependent manner and prevented cell migration when used at a concentration exceeding 10 μM. Immunohistochemistry showed that the inhibitory effects of ZOL on hepatoma cell progression was not due to the suppression of Ras and RhoA expression but due to inhibition of their translocation from the cytosol to the cell membrane, which terminates mevalonate pathway. Immunoblotting and flow cytometry showed that ZOL inhibited the mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathway (MAPK) and induced apoptosis of hepatoma cells.ConclusionsOur results indicated that ZOL prevented cell growth and metastasis based on direct antitumor effects in hepatoma cells. The use of ZOL could not only suppress the progression to bone metastatic lesions but also prevented growth of primary hepatocellular carcinoma.
Suppression of oxidative stress and improvement of liver functions in mice by ursolic acid via LKB1‐AMP‐activated protein kinase signaling
Authors: Yang Yongbin , Zhao Zhanxue , Liu Yuanjun , Kang Xianjiang , Zhang Haisong , Meng Ming 
Published: August 2014

AbstractBackground and AimHepatic cirrhosis is the final stage of liver dysfunction, characterized by diffuse fibrosis, which is the main response to the liver injury. This study is to investigate the effects of ursolic acid (UA) on liver functions and fibrosis in bile duct ligation (BDL) mice and to determine the underlying mechanisms.MethodsCultured hepatocytes were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in the presence or absence of UA. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, protein levels of IκBα, iNOS and Cox‐2, and NF‐κB activation were detected, respectively. C57/BL6 and AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK)α2–/– mice were subjected to BDL for 14 days. UA was administered by gavage. The markers of liver function and oxidative stress, and liver histopathology were analyzed after treatment.ResultsTreatment of hepatocytes with UA dose‐dependently activates AMPK, which is abolished by silence of liver kinase B1 (LKB1). LPS significantly increased ROS productions, apoptosis, NF‐κB activation, and expressions of iNOS and Cox‐2 in cultured hepatocytes. All these effects were blocked by co‐incubation with UA. Importantly, silence of LKB1, AMPK, or iNOS/Cox‐2 by small interference RNA transfection reversed UA‐induced effects in cultured cells. In an animal study, 14‐day BDL induced liver fibrosis and liver injury, accompanied with increased oxidative stress and protein expressions of iNOS and Cox‐2 in liver. Treatment of UA significantly attenuated the BDL‐induced detrimental effects in wild‐type mice but not in AMPKα2–/– mice.ConclusionUA via LKB1‐AMPK signaling offers protective effects on BDL‐induced liver injury in mice, which may be related to inhibition of oxidative stress.
Microdissection approaches in tuberculosis research
Authors: Hudock Teresa A. , Lackner Andrew A. , Kaushal Deepak 
Published: August 2014

AbstractMycobacterium tuberculosis, a globally significant pathogen, results in active or latent tuberculosis. The granuloma is the characteristic lesion that offers insight into host–pathogen interactions in these distinct states. Microdissection provides a way to isolate and consequently investigate specific tissue sections. We review various techniques available and in use.
Analysis of the efficacy of three treatment options for cesarean scar pregnancy management
Authors: Li Yue‐ran , Xiao Song‐shu , Wan Ya‐jun , Xue Min 
Published: August 2014

AbstractAimTo assess three different methods in treating patients with cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP).MethodsWe evaluated pre‐, intra‐ and postoperative conditions of 124 CSP patients in one of the three treatment groups, of which 37 patients underwent uterine curettage by hysteroscopy under ultrasound monitoring (group 1), 28 patients were treated with methotrexate followed by hysteroscopy (group 2) and 59 cases underwent uterine arterial embolization followed by hysteroscopy (group 3). The treatment options were determined based on the patients' conditions.ResultsAmong all three groups, group 3 (uterine arterial embolization followed by hysteroscopy) had the least intraoperative blood loss and the highest success rate with curettage, but the highest hospitalization cost. Group 1 (only hysteroscopy) had the shortest length of hospitalization and the lowest cost, but the highest intraoperative blood loss and slowest recovery. Group 2 (methotrexate followed by hysteroscopy) had the longest period of hospitalization, and other indexes had fallen in between the other two groups.ConclusionAmong the three methods, uterine arterial embolization followed by hysteroscopy is the safest and most efficient method without considering the cost of hospitalization. Patients with a low level of β‐hCG may consider choosing hysteroscopy under ultrasound monitoring or methotrexate followed by hysteroscopy. The advantage is low cost of hospitalization; however, patients may be under relatively higher surgical risks and lower first time surgical success rate, especially for patients treated by hysteroscopy under ultrasound monitoring.
Liver dysfunction in triplet pregnancies: Relation to antenatal changes in antithrombin activity and platelet count
Authors: Nishida Ryutaro , Morikawa Mamoru , Yamada Takahiro , Akaishi Rina , Yamada Takashi , Minakami Hisanori 
Published: August 2014

AbstractAimThe aim of this study was to determine whether antenatal decline in antithrombin (AT) activity occurs frequently and precedes the development of perinatal liver dysfunction in women with triplet pregnancies.Material and MethodsA retrospective observational study was conducted on all women who gave birth to triplets at gestational week ≥22 at a single centre during a study period from January 2001 to March 2013. The following eight blood parameters were monitored weekly during the last 5 weeks of pregnancy and postpartum: AT activity, platelet count, fibrinogen, D‐dimer, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), uric acid and creatinine. Pregnancy‐induced AT deficiency (PIATD) and gestational thrombocytopenia were defined as antenatal AT activity <70% of normal level and antenatal platelet count <150 × 109/L, respectively. Liver dysfunction was defined as AST > 40 IU/L. LDH elevation was defined as LDH > 450 IU/L.ResultsSixteen women were eligible for this study. All variables except LDH exhibited significant changes antenatally: AT activity, platelet count and fibrinogen decreased, while D‐dimer, AST, urate and creatinine increased. LDH increased significantly postpartum. PIATD, gestational thrombocytopenia, perinatal liver dysfunction, and LDH elevation occurred in eight, seven, six, and eight women, respectively. Liver dysfunction was preceded by PIATD alone in three, by both PIATD and gestational thrombocytopenia in one and by gestational thrombocytopenia alone in none of the subjects. After delivery, laboratory abnormalities similar to HELLP syndrome were seen in three women exclusively in the presence of PIATD.ConclusionsReduced AT activity was likely to precede perinatal liver dysfunction in women with triplets.