bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A molecular marker of disease activity in autoimmune liver diseases with histopathological correlation; FoXp3/RORγt ratio
Authors: Mitra Suvradeep , Anand Shashi , Das Ashim , Thapa Baburam , Chawla Yogesh Kumar , Minz Ranjana Walker
Published: October 2015

Autoimmune liver diseases (AILDs) encompass a group of diseases with variable clinicopathological manifestations. Th17 and Treg cells have roles in the pathogenesis of AILDs with a balance shifted towards a relative increase in activity of the Th17 cells. In this study, the balance between the transcription factors of Treg and Th17 cells (FoXp3 and RORγt) was sought as a molecular marker of disease activity and to highlight the pathogenesis. The peripheral blood samples of 46 treatment‐naive patients were collected and RNA was extracted. Real time PCR was performed and the ratio of gene expression was calculated. Histopathology of 18 patients was obtained and the activity score of these biopsies were also corroborated with their respective molecular (FoXp3/RORγt) (FRGT=FoXp3‐ROR Gamma T) ratio. The FRGT ratio in healthy individuals was close to 1 and in disease the ratio changed significantly. This ratio (FRGT) was not significantly different in different varieties of AILD or in adult or paediatric form of the disease. However, the ratio remained consistently below 1 (mean 0.3) in acute disease and high (mean 224.7) in chronic or asymptomatic form of the disease (p < 0.001). The histopathological activity score also significantly correlated with the ratio. This signified the relative excess of Th17 (RORγt) in active disease as compared to Treg (FoXp3) and the reverse in chronic form. This ratio can be an important peripheral molecular marker to assess the disease activity without the necessity of performing a liver biopsy.
Systematic review with meta‐analysis: the risk of major gastrointestinal bleeding with non‐vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants
Authors: Caldeira D. , Barra M. , Ferreira A. , Rocha A. , Augusto A. , Pinto F. J. , Costa J. , Ferreira J. J.
Published: October 2015

Background

Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is a common complication among anticoagulated patients. Non‐vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) are associated with increased risk of GI (major and clinically relevant non‐major) bleeding. However, more information is needed regarding severe events.

Aim

To evaluate the risk of NOACs major GI bleeding.

Methods

We searched for phase III randomised clinical trials (RCT) evaluating NOACs (apixaban, dabigatran, edoxaban and rivaroxaban) and reporting major GI bleeding events, in MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, SciELO collection and Web of Science databases (July 2015). Meta‐analysis was performed to estimate risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). Heterogeneity was assessed with the I2 test.

Results

A total of 23 studies were included. Among patients with atrial fibrillation, the risk of major GI bleeding was not different between NOACs and vitamin K antagonists (VKA) (RR 1.08, 95% CI 0.85–1.36, I2 = 78%; 5 RCTs) or acetylsalicylic acid (RR 0.78, 95% CI 0.36–1.72; 1 RCT). Similar results were found for patients undergoing orthopaedic surgery and those with venous thromboembolism. NOACs were not found to increase the risk compared to low‐molecular‐weight heparin (LWMH) alone (RR 1.42, 95% CI 0.55–3.71, I2 = 7%; 8 RCTs), the sequential treatment with LMWH‐VKA (RR 0.77, 95% CI 0.49–1.21, I2 = 43%; 7 RCTs) or placebo (RR 1.48, 95% CI 0.15–14.84, I2 = 21%; 2 RCTs).

Conclusion

Despite previous evidence supporting the association of non‐vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants and overall GI bleeding, non‐vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants are not associated with increased risk of major GI bleeding compared to other anticoagulant drugs (with known increased risk of these events).
Porcine circovirus type 2 detection in in vitro produced porcine blastocysts after virus sperm exposure
Authors: Galeati Giovanna , Zannoni Augusta , Spinaci Marcella , Bucci Diego , Ostanello Fabio , Panarese Serena , Tamanini Carlo , Sarli Giuseppe
Published: October 2015

This study was aimed at assessing the capability of semen experimentally infected with porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) to produce porcine blastocysts PCR positive for PCV2. Embryos were obtained from in vitro maturation (IVM) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) of porcine oocytes or by parthenogenesis. Sperm suspension was exposed to PCV2b and utilized for IVF. PCV2 spiked semen did not reveal any reduction in sperm viability or motility but its ability to produce infected blastocysts was irrelevant as only one out of 15 blastocysts obtained by IVF were PCV2b; however two blastocysts were PCV2a positive. Furthermore, the presence of PCV2 was demonstrated also in embryos obtained by parthenogenesis (one out of 17 was PCV2b and one PCV2a positive). Even if PCV2 firmly attaches to the surface of spermatozoa, experimentally spiked sperm were not effective in infecting oocytes during IVF and in producing PCR positive embryos. The infected blastocysts we obtained derived most probably from infected oocytes recovered at the abattoir.
First‐Trimester Pregnancy Exposure to Venlafaxine or Duloxetine and Risk of Major Congenital Malformations: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lassen Dorte , Ennis Zandra Nymand , Damkier Per
Published: October 2015

Major depressive disorder is common among women in child‐bearing age, and medical treatment is subject to substantial discussions and controversies. For Selective Serotonin reuptake inhibitors, SSRIs, a vast amount of data are available. For the newer antidepressant group of serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors, SNRIs, significantly less data are available. Following the PRISMA guideline for systematic reviews, we performed a systematic search on the risk of major congenital malformations after first trimester in utero exposure to venlafaxine or duloxetine. We identified eight cohort studies reporting on the outcome upon in utero exposure to venlafaxine or duloxetine during the first trimester. The cumulated data for venlafaxine were 3186 exposed infants and 107 major malformations, resulting in a relative risk estimate and 95% confidence interval of 1.12 (0.92–1.35). The corresponding data for duloxetine were 668 infants and 16 major malformations, resulting in a relative risk estimate and 95% confidence interval of 0.80 (0.46–1.29). First‐trimester in utero exposure to venlafaxine is not associated with an increased risk of major congenital malformations. The amount of data for duloxetine are significantly smaller but does not suggest a clinically important increased risk.
Keratinocytes and neutrophils are important sources of proinflammatory molecules in hidradenitis suppurativa
Authors: Lima A.L. , Karl I. , Giner T. , Poppe H. , Schmidt M. , Presser D. , Goebeler M. , Bauer B.
Published: October 2015

Background

The pathogenesis of the chronic inflammatory skin disease hidradenitis suppurativa (HS, also known as acne inversa) involves epidermal alterations such as psoriasiform epidermal hyperplasia and keratin plugging. Keratinocytes are an important source of proinflammatory molecules in inflammatory skin diseases and can be stimulated by interleukin (IL)-17+ cells.

Objectives

To explore the possible role of the epithelium in the pathogenesis of HS.

Methods

We performed immunohistochemical stainings and Western blot experiments to investigate the localization and expression of inflammation-associated molecules, including the cytokine IL-17, components of the inflammasome including caspase-1, and the endogenous danger-associated molecular pattern molecules S100A8 and S100A9 (calprotectin). To examine a possible effect of upregulated proinflammatory cytokines on the inflammatory infiltrate, differences in the cellular composition of perifollicular and deep dermal infiltrates were analysed.

Results

The number of IL-17+ cells is increased in lesional and perilesional HS skin. The epidermis produces proinflammatory molecules and shows an upregulated expression of components of the NLRP3 inflammasome, activated caspase-1 and expression of S100A8/S100A9. Additionally, the course of the inflammatory process in HS involves influx of innate immune cells, particularly IL-17-expressing neutrophils.

Conclusions

IL-17-producing cells are present in lesional and perilesional HS skin and may contribute to the initiation of inflammatory processes. Furthermore, the epidermis is a source of proinflammatory cytokines, shows inflammasome activation and expresses S100A8/S100A9, thereby possibly contributing to the propagation of inflammation. A massive influx of IL-17-expressing neutrophils is observed in the deep infiltrate.
Outcomes of living donor renal transplantation in children with lower urinary tract dysfunction: a comparative retrospective study
Authors: Saad Ismail R. , Habib Enmar , ElSheemy Mohammed S. , Abdel‐Hakim Mahmoud , Sheba Mostafa , Mosleh Aziz , Salah Doaa M. , Bazaraa Hafez , Fadel Fatina I. , Morsi Hany A. , Badawy Hesham
Published: October 2015

Objectives

To compare outcomes of renal transplantation (RTx) in children with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) resulting from lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) vs other causes.

Patients and Methods

A database of children (<18 years old) who underwent RTx between May 2008 and April 2012 was reviewed. Patients were divided into those with LUTD (group A, n = 29) and those with other causes of ESRD (group B, n = 74). RTx was performed after achieving low intravesical pressure (<30 cmH2O) with adequate bladder capacity and drainage. The groups were compared using Student's t‐test, Mann–Whitney, chi‐squared or exact tests. Graft survival rates (GSRs) were evaluated using Kaplan–Meier curves and the log‐rank test.

Results

The mean ± sd (range) age of the study cohort was 5.05 ± 12.4 (2.2–18) years. Causes of LUTD were posterior urethral valve (PUV; 41.4%), vesico‐ureteric reflux (VUR; 37.9%), neurogenic bladder (10.3%), prune belly syndrome (3.4%), obstructive megaureter (3.4%) and urethral stricture disease (3.4%). There was no significant difference in age, dialysis duration or donor type. In group A, 25 of the 29 patients (86.2%) underwent ≥1 surgery to optimize the urinary tract for allograft. Pretransplant nephrectomy was performed in 15 of the 29 patients (51.7%), PUV ablation in nine patients (31%) and ileocystoplasty in four patients (13.7%). The mean ± sd follow‐up was 4.52 ± 1.55 and 4.07 ± 1.27 years in groups A and B, respectively. There was no significant difference in creatinine and eGFR between the groups at different points of follow‐up. The GSRs at the end of the study were 93.1 and 91.1% in groups A and B, respectively (P = 1.00). According to Kaplan–Meier survival curves, there was no significant difference in the GSR between the groups using the log‐rank test (P = 0.503). No graft was lost as a result of urological complications. In group B, one child died from septicaemia. The rate of urinary tract infections was 24 and 12% in groups A and B, respectively, but was not significant. No significant difference was found between the groups with regard to the incidence of post‐transplantation hydronephrosis. Of the 22 patients who had hydronephrosis after transplantation, three were complicated by UTI. Injection of bulking agents was required in two patients for treatment of grade 3 VUR. In the third patient, augmentation cystoplasty was needed.

Conclusion

Acceptable graft function, survival and UTI rates can be achieved in children with ESRD attributable to LUTD. Thorough assessment and optimization of LUT, together with close follow‐up, are key for successful RTx.
Xylem Sap Flux Affects Conventional Stem CO2 Efflux Measurements in Tropical Trees
Authors: Kunert Norbert , Edinger Jens
Published: October 2015

The relationship between sap flux and stem CO2 efflux was assessed for three mango trees. We observed higher than expected CO2 effluxes at the place of measurement under intermediate sap flux velocities and lower fluxes under high sap flux velocity. This variation disappeared after removing the tree crown.
Staphylococcal enterotoxin IgE sensitization in late‐onset severe eosinophilic asthma in the elderly
Authors: Song W.‐J. , Sintobin I. , Sohn K.‐H. , Kang M.‐G. , Park H.‐K. , Jo E.‐J. , Lee S.‐E. , Yang M.‐S. , Kim S.‐H. , Park H.‐K. , Kwon Y. E. , Kim T.‐B. , Kim S.‐H. , Park H.‐W. , Chang Y.‐S. , Lee B.‐J. , Jee Y.‐K. , Choi B. W. , Bachert C. , Cho S.‐H.
Published: October 2015

Background

Asthma in the elderly (aged ≥ 65 years old) is a significant concern with high morbidity, but the pathophysiology remains unclear particularly in late‐onset asthma. Recent studies suggest staphylococcal enterotoxin IgE (SE‐IgE) sensitization to be a risk factor for asthma in general populations; however, the associations have not been examined in late‐onset elderly asthma.

Objective

We aimed to examine the associations of SE‐IgE sensitization with late‐onset asthma in the elderly, using a database of elderly asthma cohort study.

Methods

A total of 249 elderly patients with asthma and 98 controls were analysed. At baseline, patients were assessed for demographics, atopy, induced sputum profiles and comorbidities including chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Serum total IgE and SE‐IgE levels were measured. Asthma severity was assessed on the basis of asthma outcomes during a 12‐month follow‐up period.

Results

At baseline, serum SE‐IgE concentrations were significantly higher in patients with asthma than in controls [median 0.16 (interquartile range 0.04–0.53) vs. 0.10 (0.01–0.19), P < 0.001]. Elderly asthma patients with high SE‐IgE levels had specific characteristics of having more severe asthma, sputum eosinophilia and CRS, compared to those with lower SE‐IgE levels. In multivariate logistic regression analyses, the associations between serum SE‐IgE concentrations and severe asthma were significant, independently of covariables [SE‐IgE‐high (≥ 0.35 kU/L) vs. negative (< 0.10 kU/L) group: odds ratio 7.47, 95% confidence interval 1.86–30.03, P = 0.005]. Multiple correspondence analyses also showed that high serum SE‐IgE level had close relationships with severe asthma, CRS and sputum eosinophilia together.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

This is the first report on the significant associations of SE‐IgE sensitization with late‐onset asthma in the elderly, particularly severe eosinophilic asthma with CRS comorbidity. Our findings indicate a potential implication of SE in the high morbidity burden of elderly asthma and suggest clues to the pathogenesis of severe late‐onset eosinophilic asthma in the elderly.
Distinct modulation of allergic T cell responses by subcutaneous vs. sublingual allergen‐specific immunotherapy
Authors: Schulten V. , Tripple V. , Aasbjerg K. , Backer V. , Lund G. , Würtzen P. A. , Sette A. , Peters B.
Published: October 2015

Background

Allergen‐specific immunotherapy is the only curative treatment for type I allergy. It can be administered subcutaneously (SCIT) or sublingually (SLIT). The clinical efficacy of these two treatment modalities appears to be similar, but potential differences in the immunological mechanisms involved have not been fully explored.

Objective

To compare changes in the allergen‐specific T cell response induced by subcutaneous vs. sublingual administration of allergen‐specific immunotherapy (AIT).

Methods

Grass pollen‐allergic patients were randomized into groups receiving either SCIT injections or SLIT tablets or neither. PBMCs were tested for Timothy grass (TG)‐specific cytokine production by ELISPOT after in vitro expansion with TG‐peptide pools. Phenotypic characterization of cytokine‐producing cells was performed by FACS.

Results

In the SCIT group, decreased IL‐5 production was observed starting 10 months after treatment commenced. At 24 months, T cell responses showed IL‐5 levels significantly below the before‐treatment baseline. No significant reduction of IL‐5 was observed in the SLIT or untreated group. However, a significant transient increase in IL‐10 production after 10 months of treatment compared to baseline was detected in both treatment groups. FACS analysis revealed that IL‐10 production was associated with CD4+ T cells that also produced IFNγ and therefore may be associated with an IL‐10‐secreting type 1 cell phenotype.

Conclusion and clinical relevance

The most dominant immunological changes on a cellular level were a decrease in IL‐5 in the SCIT group and a significant, transient increase of IL‐10 observed after 10 months of treatment in both treated groups. The distinct routes of AIT administration may induce different immunomodulatory mechanisms at the cellular level.
Polysomnographic findings after adenotonsillectomy for obstructive sleep apnoea in obese and non‐obese children: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lee C.‐H. , Hsu W.‐C. , Chang W.‐H. , Lin M.‐T. , Kang K.‐T.
Published: October 2015

Background

Use of polysomnography (PSG) is the gold standard of diagnosis and measurement of treatment effectiveness for paediatric obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). Although adenotonsillectomy (T&A) is effective in diminishing the apnoea–hypopnoea index (AHI), a meta‐analysis of postoperative changes for all other PSG parameters and outcome comparisons between obese and non‐obese children following T&A have never been conducted.

Objective of review

To comprehensively review polysomnographic findings after surgery for obese and non‐obese children with OSA.

Search strategy

Study protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42013004737). Two authors independently searched databases including PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Review from January 1997 to July 2014. The keywords used included the following: sleep apnea, OSA, sleep apnea syndromes, tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, infant, child, adolescent, and Humans.

Evaluation method

A comprehensive systematic review and meta‐analysis for literature for OSA children treated by T&A with polysomnography data. Random‐effects model was applied to determine postoperative sleep parameter changes and the surgical success rate between obese and non‐obese groups. The quality of studies was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale.

Results

In total, 51 studies with 3413 subjects were enrolled. After surgery, sleep architecture was altered by a significant decrease in sleep stage 1, and an increase in slow‐wave sleep and the rapid eye movement stage, and enhanced sleep efficiency. The mean difference between pre‐ and postoperative was a significant reduction of 12.4 event/h in AHI, along with a reduction of obstructive index, hypopnoea index, central index and arousal index. Mean and minimum oxygen saturation increased significantly after surgery. The overall success rate was 51% for postoperative AHI <1 (obese versus non‐obese versus combined, 34% versus 49% versus 56%), and 81% for AHI <5 (obese versus non‐obese versus combined, 61% versus 87% versus 84%). Meta‐regression analyses demonstrate that postoperative AHI was positively correlated with AHI and body mass index z score before surgery.

Conclusions

Meta‐analysis of current literature shows T&A offers prominent improvement in a variety of sleep parameters. Improvements in non‐obese children exceeded those for obese children. Postoperative residual OSA remained in roughly half of the children, especially those with severe disease and obesity, making additional treatment strategies and/or long‐term follow‐up highly desirable.
Total lesion glycolysis by 18F‐FDG PET/CT is independent prognostic factor in patients with advanced non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Yıldırım Fatma , Yurdakul Ahmet Selim , Özkaya Sevket , Akdemir Ümit Özgür , Öztürk Can
Published: October 2015

Background and Aims

To determine whether the primary tumor SUVmax and total lesion glycolysis (TLG) measured on 18F‐FDG PET/CT have prognostic significance in patients with non–small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

A retrospective review identified 142 patients NSCLC who underwent 18F‐FDG PET/CT at the time of diagnosis. The affect of the SUVmax and TLG of the primary tumor on survival were examined.

Results

Total 142 patients were included the study. Thirty‐two patients were at early stage (stage I and II) and 110 patients were at advanced stage (stage III and IV). Both early and advanced stage patients were divided into two groups according to SUVmax 12 as low and high SUVmax groups. Overall survival (OS) of the low SUVmax group was significantly longer than higher SUVmax group for early‐stage patients (35.8 ± 15.3 vs 21.8 ± 13.3, P = 0.013). But there was no differences in advanced stage patients for OS (16.1 ± 14.8 vs 17.0 ± 15.1, P = 0.862). Primary lesion TLG of the 99 patients were calculated. For advanced stage, the patients with the lower TLG had significantly longer survival time (P < 0.001). In multivariate analysis only TLG remained significant predictor of OS in advanced stage patients (HR and 95% confidence interval = 7.716 and 1.664–4.342, respectively).

Conclusion

High SUVmax is related to poor OS in patients with surgically resected early stage (stage I and II) NSCLC, but it is not an independent prognostic factor. TLG is a prognostic measurement and it is independent predictor factor of survival for advanced stage NSCLC.
Prioritisation of citizen‐centric information for disaster response
Authors: Milliken Jonny , Linton David
Published: October 2015

In the aftermath of a disaster event, and in the absence of trained professionals, many responsibilities are assumed by uninjured citizens who are willing and able to help, such as care of the injured or search and rescue. These citizens are constrained by communications and logistics problems but are less equipped to deal with them as most often they are cut off from any coordinated assistance. The method proposed in this study would increase the survivability of those injured or trapped by a disaster event by providing a facility to allow citizens to coordinate and share information among themselves. This is facilitated by the proposed deployment and the autonomous management of an ad hoc infrastructure that liaises directly with survivors without central control. Furthermore, as energy concerns present critical constraints to these networks, this research proposes a system of categorising information elements within the network to ensure efficient information exchange.
Glucagon increases energy expenditure independently of brown adipose tissue activation in humans
Authors: Salem V. , Izzi‐Engbeaya C. , Coello C. , Thomas D. B. , Chambers E. S. , Comninos A. N. , Buckley A. , Win Z. , Al‐Nahhas A. , Rabiner E. A. , Gunn R. N. , Budge H. , Symonds M. E. , Bloom S. R. , Tan T. M. , Dhillo W. S.
Published: October 2015

Aims

To investigate, for a given energy expenditure (EE) rise, the differential effects of glucagon infusion and cold exposure on brown adipose tissue (BAT) activation in humans.

Methods

Indirect calorimetry and supraclavicular thermography was performed in 11 healthy male volunteers before and after: cold exposure; glucagon infusion (at 23 °C); and vehicle infusion (at 23 °C). All volunteers underwent 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose (18F‐FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/CT scanning with cold exposure. Subjects with cold‐induced BAT activation on 18F‐FDG PET/CT (n = 8) underwent a randomly allocated second 18F‐FDG PET/CT scan (at 23 °C), either with glucagon infusion (n = 4) or vehicle infusion (n = 4).

Results

We observed that EE increased by 14% after cold exposure and by 15% after glucagon infusion (50 ng/kg/min; p < 0.05 vs control for both). Cold exposure produced an increase in neck temperature (+0.44 °C; p < 0.001 vs control), but glucagon infusion did not alter neck temperature. In subjects with a cold‐induced increase in the metabolic activity of supraclavicular BAT on 18F‐FDG PET/CT, a significant rise in the metabolic activity of BAT after glucagon infusion was not detected. Cold exposure increased sympathetic activation, as measured by circulating norepinephrine levels, but glucagon infusion did not.

Conclusions

Glucagon increases EE by a similar magnitude compared with cold activation, but independently of BAT thermogenesis. This finding is of importance for the development of safe treatments for obesity through upregulation of EE.
The Elasticity of Demand for Microcredit: Evidence from Latin America
Authors: Bogan Vicki L. , Turvey Calum G. , Salazar Gabriela
Published: October 2015

Microcredit demand is frequently assumed to be inelastic, yet understanding the price elasticity of demand for microcredit is highly relevant in designing appropriate microfinance institution (MFI) financial products and policy. This article extracts loan demand schedules and elasticities of MFI borrowers in the Dominican Republic using a unique survey instrument. We analyse the intensive margin of microcredit demand and find that client demand elasticities are not homogeneous and are correlated with certain borrower characteristics. Overall results suggest that these micro‐entrepreneurs, who have already entered the MFI market, have close to unit elastic demand for microcredit. The mean demand elasticity for our sample is ‐1.0.
Not just another box to tick: Conflict‐sensitivity methods and the role of research in development programming
Authors: Gullette David , Rosenberg Dorothy
Published: October 2015

Reflecting on the experience of conducting a conflict‐sensitivity review during the 2010 political and social disturbances in Kyrgyzstan, the authors argue for the integration of conflict‐sensitive methods across programme areas, close monitoring of conflict potential and an institutional commitment to detailed conflict research drawing on broader socio‐economic research. Comparing their observations with the review findings of conflict sensitivity methods in Nepal, the authors offer recommendations for the application of ‘do no harm’ principles to development work in fragile environments. Ensuring the creation and systematic use of an adequate knowledge base is the critical first step to preventing the lessons that should be learnt from the Kyrgyz experience from being lost.
Can Donor PIUs Support Country Systems?
Authors: Aris Sulaiman , Hubbard Michael
Published: October 2015

The OECD's Paris Declaration (2005) discouraged donor project implementation units (PIUs) which are not integrated into government. But little is known about the behaviour and effects of PIUs integrated into government. Are they efficient? Do they support country systems? This article responds to these questions using research comparing two streams of implementation of schools investments in Malaysia's Eighth Plan 2001–2005, one via government alone and the other via a World Bank PIU integrated into government. It emphasises the conflicts which can exist within country systems, and how these affect the choices which a donor faces in seeking efficient implementation of a project while supporting country systems.
Comparing Public Attitudes towards Aid to Developing Countries between ‘Traditional’ and ‘Emerging’ Donors: The Case of Japan and Korea
Authors: Minato Kunio
Published: October 2015

This article explores public attitudes towards aid to developing countries in ‘traditional’ donors and ‘emerging’ donors, taking Japan as an example of the former and Korea as one of the latter. Analyses of comparative social survey data show differences and similarities between the attitudes harboured by the respondents in the two countries. Although previous cross‐national studies included only traditional donors in their analyses, the results of this study reveal the need to focus on the attitude towards aid in emerging donors, especially given their increasing presence in the international aid community.
Plan Before You Play: An Activity for Teaching The Managerial Process
Authors: Althouse Norm R. , Hedges Peggy L.
Published: October 2015

This article describes a 60‐minute classroom activity using LEGO® bricks that demonstrates and reinforces the importance of the managerial process. The activity, Plan Before You Play (PBP), is targeted to introductory business classes, and differs from others in that it requires little investment or up‐front planning, is easily scalable, and, with a few minor adjustments, can be altered sufficiently to discourage information drift across multiple class offerings and academic terms. It can also be modified to subject specific discussions. Students can participate in PBP regardless of their level of knowledge or interest in the subject. Participating in PBP provides students with a concrete example of how good communication and a decision framework can result in more efficient use of resources. The activity also encourages creativity and can be used to generate healthy competition between student groups.
Range expansion and retraction along a moving contact zone has no effect on the genetic diversity of two passerine birds
Authors: Engler Jan O. , Secondi Jean , Dawson Deborah A. , Elle Ortwin , Hochkirch Axel
Published: October 2015

Disentangling the factors shaping species distributions remains a central goal in biogeography, ecology and evolutionary biology. The extrinsic pressures that may facilitate range shifts, such as climatic factors or biotic interactions are well known. However, in contrast, the possible intrinsic factors are manifold and hard to generalize across taxa. Recently, several theoretical studies have investigated the consequences of moving range borders on genetic diversity. However, empirical studies that support or refute these theoretical predictions are scarce. Moving contact zones between parapatric sister species are suitable models to test these hypotheses. Changes in genetic diversity can be tested simultaneously along the expanding and receding edges of two species of the contact zone while accounting for intra‐specific effects (e.g. introgression). The two Old World warblersHippolais polyglottaandH. icterinaform a narrow moving contact zone, where interspecific interactions are suspected to be the main factor shaping this zone. We investigated the population genetic structure of both species along a transect ranging from the core range of the expandingH. polyglottaacross the contact zone and far into the range of the recedingH. icterina. The theoretical predictions of changes in genetic diversity at the range edges were tested. No gradual change in genetic diversity was detected for both the expanding and the receding range margin. Furthermore, no genetic structure was found in either species supporting the hypothesis that long distance dispersal (LDD) occurs frequently due to the high mobility of these long‐distance migrants. The results suggest that when dispersal propensity is high and accompanied by frequent LDD events, then neither an enrichment nor a depletion of alleles along moving range edges would be detected. This these species as the probability to retain genetic diversity during exogenous induced range shifts is high in such mobile species.
Evolutionary dispersal drives the latitudinal diversity gradient of stony corals
Authors: Spano Carlos A. , Hernández Cristián E. , Rivadeneira Marcelo M.
Published: October 2015

The diversity of stony corals displays one of the most exemplary latitudinal gradients on the planet, yet the evolutionary dynamics that produced this pattern remains unclear. Using both paleontological and distributional data, we compare the origination, extinction and immigration levels between low and high latitudes since the earliest proliferation of the group during the mid‐Triassic. Altogether, first and last occurrence localities in the fossil record do not support a positive preference towards either latitudinal bin. Nonetheless, considering past and present scleractinian fauna, the process of extinction has been apparently more pronounced at higher latitudes based on face values and correlation coefficients. Far above these differences, immigration of extant taxa has been substantially higher towards the tropics than to temperate regions. While the net dispersal toward low latitudes persists in all temporal intervals, the gradient of diversity was largely built up during the Cenozoic Era and only becomes significantly steep from the Neogene Period onwards. This dynamic supports the ‘into the tropical museum’ model, which suggests that tropics have historically acted as a center of accumulation for marine biodiversity.
A variable neighborhood search algorithm to generate piano fingerings for polyphonic sheet music
Authors: Balliauw Matteo , Herremans Dorien , Palhazi Cuervo Daniel , Sörensen Kenneth
Published: October 2015

A piano fingering indicates which finger should play each note in a piece. Such a guideline is very helpful for both amateur and experienced players in order to play a piece fluently. In this paper, we propose a variable neighborhood search algorithm to generate piano fingerings for complex polyphonic music, a frequently encountered case that was ignored in previous research. The algorithm takes into account the biomechanical properties of the pianist's hand in order to generate a fingering that is user‐specific and as easy to play as possible. An extensive statistical analysis was carried out in order to tune the parameters of the algorithm and evaluate its performance. The results of computational experiments show that the algorithm generates good fingerings that are very similar to those published in sheet music books.
Near‐Infrared Broadband Photoluminescence of Bismuth‐Doped Zeolite‐Derived Silica Glass Prepared by SPS
Authors: Gu Shijia , Zhou Beiying , Luo Wei , Wang Lianjun , Jiang Weihui , Jiang Wan
Published: October 2015

Through the order–disorder transition process of zeolites, bismuth‐doped zeolite‐derived silica glasses with broadband near‐infrared (NIR) photoluminescence have been successfully prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS). The samples were characterized by X‐ray diffraction, UV‐vis, photoluminescence, and fluorescence lifetime. The results showed that as‐prepared samples possessed favorable broadband NIR luminescence. The NIR emission (peaked at ~1140 nm) intensity decreased with increasing the bismuth doping concentration when excited by 500 and 700 nm. The tendency was different from the emissions (peaked at ~1240 nm) excited by 800 nm. In addition, the NIR fluorescence peaks of the fixed Bi concentration sample can be observed almost around 1140 or 1240 nm when excited by different wavelengths from 500 to 950 nm. These phenomena implied that the NIR emission peaked at different wavelengths may originate from different bismuth species. Three kinds of Bi active centers Bi+, Bi0, and (Bi2)2− were proposed to contribute to the NIR emission peaks at ~1140, 1240, and 1440 nm, respectively. Interestingly, a broadband NIR emission peaked at 1207 nm with a full‐width at half maximum of 273 nm was observed when excited by 600 nm, whose intensity was stronger than that excited by 800 nm. This property might be useful for broadband fiber amplifiers and tunable lasers.
Prediction of Blood Pressure and Blood Pressure Change With a Genetic Risk Score
Authors: Niiranen Teemu J. , Havulinna Aki S. , Langén Ville L. , Salomaa Veikko , Jula Antti M.
Published: October 2015

The authors investigated whether a genetic risk score (GRS) constructed of 32 single nucleotide polymorphisms would predict incident hypertension and blood pressure (BP) change over time in a population cohort during an 11‐year follow‐up (n=5402 at baseline, 3266 at follow‐up). In multivariable models, GRS was associated with higher systolic/diastolic BP values at baseline (β±standard error [SE], 1.04±0.14/1.11±0.13 mm Hg; P<.0001 for both) and at reinvestigation (β±SE, 0.84±0.18/0.79±0.16 mm Hg; P<.0001 for both). Among participants who were normotensive at baseline (n=2045), GRS was not independently associated with systolic/diastolic BP change over time (β±SE, 0.16±0.18/0.20±0.18 mm Hg; P≥.28 for both). In participants in the top tertile of the GRS, as compared with the bottom tertile, the predicted increase in systolic/diastolic BP was 1.18±0.78/0.70±0.49 mm Hg (P=.046/.15) greater and the odds ratio for incident hypertension was 33% higher (P=.03). These data show that GRS is strongly associated with BP but weakly associated with BP increase and incident hypertension in a late middle‐aged population.
Renal Denervation in Patients With Uncontrolled Hypertension and Confirmed Adherence to Antihypertensive Medications
Authors: Hameed Mohammed Awais , Pucci Mark , Martin Una , Watkin Richard , Doshi Sagar , Freedman Jonathan , Riley Peter , Townend Jonathan , Crowe Paul , Lipkin Graham , Dasgupta Indranil
Published: October 2015

Renal denervation (RDN) has emerged as a potential device‐based treatment for resistant hypertension. The authors present their experience of the use of catheter‐based RDN as part of routine clinical care in two specialist hypertension clinics. Thirty‐four patients with uncontrolled hypertension underwent RDN. All patients had ambulatory blood pressure (BP) monitoring and directly observed medication administration prior to the procedure to exclude white‐coat hypertension and nonadherence, respectively. Overall, there was a significant change in clinic systolic BP of −15.1 mm Hg (95% confidence interval, −23.4 to −6.8; P=.001) and clinic diastolic BP of −6.2 mm Hg (95% confidence interval, −11.5 to −0.9; P=.02) 6 months postprocedure, and a nonsignificant change in daytime ambulatory BP of −5.4/−2.9 mm Hg. Eighteen patients (51.4%) showed a significant reduction in their clinic systolic BP (≥10 mm Hg) and 16 (47%) had a significant reduction in their daytime ambulatory systolic BP (≥5 mm Hg) at 6 months.
A review of case–control studies on the risk factors for the development of autoimmune blistering diseases
Authors: Oh D.D. , Zhao C.Y. , Murrell D.F.
Published: October 2015

Autoimmune blistering diseases (AIBD) are a group of rare but potentially fatal diseases characterized by the production of autoantibodies directed against the structural proteins of the skin. Much has been published on the clinical manifestation and interventional options for AIBD, especially on the more common subtypes such as bullous pemphigoid, pemphigus vulgaris (PV) and pemphigus foliaceus (PF). However, the aetiology of AIBD remains unknown. We aim to provide an overview of published case–control studies focussing on the non‐genetic aetiological factors of bullous pemphigoid, PV and/or PF. The relevant studies were appraised for their validity and results. Our results showed that a large proportion of the studies had inconclusive results due to compromised study methodologies. Moreover, there were no identified case–control studies that investigated the possible associations between bullous pemphigoid and patient environment, or the potential links between pemphigus and drugs. Hence, a case–control study with a higher quality design addressing these shortcomings would contribute greatly to our knowledge of AIBD.
Calcium silicate‐based cements: composition, properties, and clinical applications
Authors: Dawood Alaa E. , Parashos Peter , Wong Rebecca H.K. , Reynolds Eric C. , Manton David J.
Published: October 2015

Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) is a calcium silicate‐based cement (CSC) commonly used in endodontic procedures involving pulpal regeneration and hard tissue repair, such as pulp capping, pulpotomy, apexogenesis, apexification, perforation repair, and root‐end filling. Despite the superior laboratory and clinical performance of MTA in comparison with previous endodontic repair cements, such as Ca(OH)2, MTA has poor handling properties and a long setting time. New CSC have been commercially launched and marketed to overcome the limitations of MTA. The aim of the present review was to explore the available literature on new CSC products, and to give evidence‐based recommendations for the clinical use of these materials. Within the limitations of the available data in the literature regarding the properties and performance of the new CSC, the newer products could be promising alternatives to MTA; however, further research is required to support this assumption.
Being in a critical illness‐recovery process: a phenomenological hermeneutical study
Authors: Palesjö Carina , Nordgren Lena , Asp Margareta
Published: October 2015

Aims and objective

The aim of this study was to describe and interpret the essential meaning of the lived experiences of being in a critical illness‐recovery process after a life‐threatening condition.

Background

The critical illness‐recovery process after a life‐threatening condition takes several years and does not only include patients' experiences during intensive care. Previous research has mainly focused on what critically ill patients recall. However, from a phenomenological point of view, experiences are more than memories alone. To plan and perform relevant health care and social support for patients who have survived a life‐threatening condition, a more profound understanding about their lived experiences is needed.

Design and method

In this qualitative study, a phenomenological hermeneutical approach was used. Interviews were conducted with seven patients, two to four years after they had received care in an intensive care unit in Sweden.

Results

The comprehensive understanding of the results shows that the critical illness‐recovery process after a life‐threatening condition means an existential struggle to reconcile with an unfamiliar body and with ordinary life. This can be understood as an ‘unhomelikeness’ implying a struggle to create meaning and coherence from scary and fragmented memories. The previous life projects, such as work and social life become unfamiliar when the patient's fragile and weak body is disobedient and brings on altered sensations.

Conclusions

Patients who survive a life‐threatening condition have an immense need for care and support during the entire critical illness‐recovery process, and also after the initial acute phase. They need a coherent understanding of what happened, and support to be able to perform their changed life projects.

Relevance to clinical practice

Supporting and caring for patients' recovery from a life‐ threatening condition involves recognising the patients' struggle and responding to their existential concerns.
Policies to foster quality improvement registries: lessons from the Swedish case
Authors: Levay C.
Published: October 2015

Background and objectives

Multi‐institutional quality improvement registries (QI registries) are a promising approach to quality improvement. They are also used for clinical research, public quality reporting and other valuable purposes. The aim of this study was to identify elements and outcomes of national policies to promote registries in Sweden and to compare them with recent policies in the USA.

Methods

This case study draws on previous studies of Swedish registries and on interviews, observations and document studies conducted in Sweden and the USA.

Results

In Sweden, registries are fostered by favourable patient data regulation and an indirect control approach combining government funding with soft regulation and professional self‐governance. This enables the development of high‐quality QI registries which are used for improvements by engaged clinicians, for clinical research and for decision support for practitioners and stakeholders. For example, Riks‐HIA/Swedeheart achieved improved outcomes in cardiac intensive care, SCAAR/Swedeheart was used in a unique registry‐based randomized trial, and the Swedish Rheumatology Quality Register provides a Web interface for patient encounters and clarifies adverse effects of biologic drugs. Still, the system has persistent limitations, especially the administrative burden on participants. In the USA, Medicare's programme for qualified clinical data registries and other recent changes mirror Swedish policies. Automated data capture is a US advantage, but uncertain funding and complex data regulations stall registry development in the USA.

Conclusion

The findings of this study indicate that tailor‐made data regulation and a soft regulatory policy approach foster high‐quality QI registries with multiple meaningful uses. These findings offer a framework for further cross‐country comparative study to evaluate registry policies.
Full‐Arch, Implant‐Supported Monolithic Zirconia Rehabilitations: Pilot Clinical Evaluation of Wear Against Natural or Composite Teeth
Authors: Cardelli Paolo , Manobianco Francesco Pio , Serafini Nicola , Murmura Giovanna , Beuer Florian
Published: October 2015

Purpose

To clinically evaluate the amount of contact wear generated between full‐arch monolithic zirconia implant‐supported restorations and natural or composite antagonists, over a 1‐year period.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐seven teeth from clinically functional, full‐arch monolithic zirconia screw‐retained implant prostheses (FDPs) and their antagonists were investigated. The first group (“Zirconia‐E”) was opposed to natural teeth (“Enamel”), whereas the other one (“Zirconia‐CR”) was opposed to nano‐hybrid composite teeth (“Composite Resin”). Replicas of the restorations and their antagonists were obtained immediately after delivery (T0) and after 1 year of clinical service (T1). Each tooth surface was individually evaluated three‐dimensionally by software to quantify the vertical distance between the two scans (Hausdorff distance), which was considered as contact wear. Data obtained for each arch were subjected to one‐way ANOVA test and a post hoc analysis (Tukey's test) at a 5% level of significance. Furthermore, the influence of the location of the teeth (anterior or posterior) was analyzed. Minimum post hoc statistical power between statistically different groups was 99.6%.

Results

Mean values were 63 ± 23 μm for Zirconia‐E, 76 ± 29 μm for enamel, 70 ± 38 μm for composite resin; Zirconia‐CR had a mean value of 19 ± 4 μm and significantly differed from the other groups. Contact wear between anterior and posterior teeth differed significantly only in the composite resin arch, with a mean of 39 ± 22 μm for anterior teeth versus 101 ± 19 μm for posterior ones.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this preliminary evaluation, monolithic zirconia full‐arch rehabilitations induced a clinically acceptable wear on natural and composite antagonists over a 1‐year period; they might be considered a viable solution for implant‐supported rehabilitations.
Effects of Continuous Exposure to Ozone Gas and Electrolyzed Water on the Skin Hardness of Table and Wine Grape Varieties
Authors: Laureano J. , Giacosa S. , Río Segade S. , Torchio F. , Cravero F. , Gerbi V. , Englezos V. , Carboni C. , Cocolin L. , Rantsiou K. , Faroni L.R.D. , Rolle L.
Published: October 2015

The effects of continuous exposure to ozone gas (O3, 30 μL/L, 24 h) and immersion in electrolyzed water (EW, 400 mg/L free chlorine, 10 min) on skin hardness of Italia and Muscat Hamburg table grapes, and Merlot and Barbera wine grapes were investigated and compared with those of control treatments (air and deionized water). Skin hardness was instrumentally evaluated via measurements of skin break energy using a puncture test. For all cultivars and density classes, ozone treatment was more effective in increasing skin hardness than EW treatment, although the differences were not always significant. For the same treatment, skin hardening was independent of berry density, and the magnitude of this effect was cultivar‐dependent. This skin hardening might positively affect the postharvest life of table grapes. In wine grapes, increases in skin break energy values were related to higher yields and slow extraction kinetics of phenolic compounds during maceration.

Practical Applications

The purpose and the originality of this work were to determine the real impact of continuous exposure to ozone gas and immersion in electrolyzed water on skin hardness in table grape and wine grape varieties. Differences in the treatment effect due to the grape maturity level were studied in berries sorted according to density. For all cultivars and density classes evaluated, ozone treatment was more effective for increasing skin hardness than electrolyzed water treatment although the differences were not always significant. Therefore, the use of ozone gas as alternative sanitizing agent could extend the postharvest life of table grapes and facilitate the extraction of phenolic compounds from wine grapes during maceration according to increased skin hardness.