bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sowing of margin strips rich in floral resources improves herbivore control in adjacent crop fields
Authors: Pollier Anna , Tricault Yann , Plantegenest Manuel , Bischoff Armin
Published: November 2018

Field margin vegetation provides resources for natural enemies of crop herbivores. Thus, the design of plant mixtures improving resource provisioning is being discussed increasingly with respect to improving herbivore control.

We set up a field experiment to assess the effect of (i) a wildflower strip optimized for nectar provisioning; (ii) a grass strip and (iii) spontaneous vegetation on herbivore regulation in oilseed rape and wheat. We also analyzed the attractiveness of plant species to natural enemies.

The cover of flowering entomophilous plant species as a proxy of floral resource provisioning was twice as high in wildflower strips compared with the other strip treatments. Natural enemy densities were higher within and close to wildflower strips in the field. A corresponding effect on aphid predation and aphid infestation was observed. Significant negative correlations between natural enemy abundance in the margin and aphid infestation in the fields supported a causal relationship. The sown wildflower strip species were more attractive to natural enemies than spontaneous vegetation.

The results of the present study demonstrate that improved nectar provisioning increased the predation and parasitism of crop herbivores. Further research on the spatio‐temporal dynamics of interactions is needed to determine why not all crop herbivores respond to an increase of natural enemies in field margins.
Prime time for immunotherapy in advanced urothelial cancer
Authors: Jiang Di Maria , Sridhar Srikala S.
Published: November 2018

Background

Metastatic urothelial cancer (UC) is a lethal disease. Until 2016, cytotoxic chemotherapy with substantial toxicity was the only therapeutic option. In the first‐line metastatic setting, cisplatin‐based combination chemotherapy remains the standard of care. For cisplatin‐ineligible patients, carboplatin‐based regimens that are less efficacious are often substituted. In platinum‐refractory patients, taxanes and vinflunine are the most commonly used. Recently, treatment options have largely expanded with the development of the immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Here, we review the rationale, clinical trial data and recent advances in biomarker development in the field of immuno‐oncology in this disease site. We will also explore future directions of the field with respect to sequencing and combination strategies.

Methods

A comprehensive literature review was performed using Pubmed, clinicaltrials.gov, and conference proceedings from the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) and the American Society of Oncology (ASCO).

Results and Conclusion

ICIs have disease activity in metastatic UC. Five ICIs gained FDA regulatory approval in metastatic UC in patients with platinum‐refractory disease. Of these five agents, pembrolizumab has level I evidence based on the KEYNOTE‐045 phase III trial showing an overall survival benefit of 3 months over standard chemotherapy. ICIs also play a role in the first‐line setting for patients who are cisplatin ineligible. Currently, ICIs are administered to unselected patients as reliable predictive biomarkers are lacking; however, this is a very active area of research. The rapid expansion of ICIs has also led to many upcoming trials, testing ICIs earlier in the disease course and in various combination strategies. Studies on optimal sequencing of therapies are eagerly awaited.
Do wildlife corridors link or extend habitat? Insights from elephant use of a Kenyan wildlife corridor
Authors: Green Siân E. , Davidson Zeke , Kaaria Timothy , Doncaster C. Patrick
Published: November 2018

Human encroachment on wildlife habitats is leading to increased fragmentation; hence, there is an increasing focus on improving connectivity between remaining habitat. Large, wide‐ranging species such as the African elephant, (Loxodonta africana), are particularly vulnerable due to their extensive habitat requirements. Wildlife corridors have been created to facilitate movement, with little knowledge to date on whether they serve their intended function as transit routes, or whether they simply extend the available habitat for occupancy. We collected data on elephant behaviour in the Mount Kenya Elephant Corridor, with the aim of quantifying the utility of the corridor. A grid of 25 camera traps was used to survey the 478 ha corridor over 11 weeks. Cameras recorded over 43,000 photos with 694 separate events triggered by elephants. Patterns of use varied spatially and temporally, indicating that certain areas were treated as habitat extension, while others were predominantly for transit. These differences were likely due to variation in vegetation cover and levels of human disturbance. Corridor use differed amongst individuals, suggesting that use may depend on both the characteristics of the corridor itself and the social or resource needs of individual elephants.
Assessing the impacts of oil exploration and restoration on mammals in Murchison Falls Conservation Area, Uganda
Authors: Fuda Rebecca K. , Ryan Sadie J. , Cohen Jonathan B. , Hartter Joel , Frair Jacqueline L.
Published: November 2018

Global energy demand has driven expansion of oil and gas extraction into African protected areas, raising concern about potential deleterious impacts on wildlife. Efforts aim to restore extraction sites to their original condition, but may take many years to be successful. We analysed the impact of human disturbance (road density, distance to border, sound levels and the presence of restored oil drill pads) on mammal distributions in Murchison Falls Conservation Area (MFCA), Uganda. We detected 27 mammal species using camera trap surveys within three disturbance‐related strata: restored (<500 m from a restored drill pad), disturbed matrix (within the disturbed landscape but >1 km from a disturbance feature) and remote (>3 km from any disturbance). Herbivore species richness was greater within the disturbed matrix and at restored sites compared to remote areas, whereas species richness did not vary by strata for other guilds. Occupancy models fit for 15 relatively common species indicated no difference in occupancy probability across the three strata, but giraffe occupancy was higher at sites with more restored drill pads. Most species did not avoid areas of high human disturbance in this study, and new vegetation growth may attract some herbivores to restored oil sites.
Social‐emotional problems among three‐year‐olds differ based on the child's gender and custody arrangement
Authors: Eurenius Eva , Richter Sundberg Linda , Vaezghasemi Masoud , Silfverdal Sven‐Arne , Ivarsson Anneli , Lindkvist Marie
Published: November 2018

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate mental health with respect to social‐emotional problems among three‐year‐olds in relation to their gender, custody arrangements and place of residence.

Methods

A cross‐sectional population‐based design was used, encompassing 7179 three‐year‐olds in northern Sweden during the period 2014–2017 from the regional Salut Register. Descriptive and comparative analyses were performed based on parents’ responses on the Ages and Stages Questionnaires: Social‐Emotional, supplemented with items on gender, custody arrangement and place of residence.

Results

Parental‐reported social‐emotional problems were found in almost 10% of the children. Boys were reported to have more problems (12.3%) than girls (5.6%; p < 0.001). Parents were most concerned about children's eating habits and interactions at mealtimes. Parents not living together reported more problems among their children than those living together (p < 0.001). When stratifying by custody arrangement, girls in rural areas living alternately with each parent had more problems compared to those in urban areas (p < 0.008).

Conclusion

Gender and custody arrangements appear to be important factors for social‐emotional problems among three‐year‐olds. Thus, such conditions should receive attention during preschool age, preferably by a systematic preventive strategy within Child Health Care.
Letter: the effect of sirolimus on recurrence and survival in liver transplant recipients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Grigg Sam , Gow Paul J. , Yeomans Neville
Published: November 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Menon et al papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.12185 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15038.
Letter: chronic kidney disease risk in patients with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Xin Haiguang , Wang Junxue , Wu Zhiqin , Ni Wu
Published: November 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Wong et al. and Wong et al. papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14945 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15031.
Editorial: microbial translocation and immune activation profiling during treatment of chronic HCV
Authors: Bruno Raffaele , Zuccaro Valentina
Published: November 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Lattanzi paper. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14994.
Editorial: “real world data” of AIH—time to connect!
Authors: Hupa‐Breier Katharina Luise , Taubert Richard , Jaeckel Elmar , Manns Michael P.
Published: November 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Liberal et al paper. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.13907.
Letter: chronic kidney disease risk in patients with chronic hepatitis B—authors’ reply
Authors: Wong Grace Lai‐Hung , Szeto Cheuk‐Chun , Wong Vincent Wai‐Sun
Published: November 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Wong et al and Xin et al papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14945 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15008.
Editorial: stepwise risk stratification for both F3 and F4 in NAFLD patients—authors’ reply
Authors: Labenz Christian , Schattenberg Jörn M.
Published: November 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Labenz et al and Idriss and Lai papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14976 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15024.
Detection of KIT D816V in peripheral blood of children with manifestations of cutaneous mastocytosis suggests systemic disease
Authors: Carter Melody C. , Bai Yun , Ruiz‐Esteves Karina N. , Scott Linda M. , Cantave Daly , Bolan Hyejeong , Eisch Robin , Sun Xiaoping , Hahn Jamie , Maric Irina , Metcalfe Dean D.
Published: November 2018

The use of allele‐specific quantitative polymerase chain reaction to identify KIT D816V in the peripheral blood of adults with mastocytosis has been reported to have value in the diagnosis, assessment of disease burden and management of this disease. To examine the value of this assay in children with cutaneous manifestations of mastocytosis, we assessed data on 65 patients with all variants of paediatric‐onset mastocytosis, including those known to have systemic disease, to correlate KIT mutation status with clinical findings, serum tryptase levels and bone marrow histopathology. We found that KIT D816V was not identified in the peripheral blood of children known to have only cutaneous disease (specificity 100%) but was found in those known to have both cutaneous and systemic/probable systemic disease (sensitivity of 85·2%). These findings were the basis of the development of an algorithm to assist in the decision for when to perform a bone marrow biopsy in children presenting with cutaneous manifestations of mastocytosis.
Thrombophilia in non‐thrombotic chronic venous disease of the lower limb – a systematic review
Authors: Tan Matthew K. H. , Onida Sarah , Laffan Michael , Davies Alun H.
Published: November 2018

Chronic venous disease (CVD) represents a significant healthcare burden. Thrombophilia is proposed as a risk factor, particularly for post‐thrombotic CVD. A systematic review was performed to determine the relationship between thrombophilia and non‐thrombotic CVD. MEDLINE® and Embase® databases were searched from 1946 up to March 2018. Case‐control studies, cohort studies or randomised clinical trials reporting on thrombophilias in non‐thrombotic lower limb CVD in adult patients were included. Non‐English and post‐thrombotic syndrome studies were excluded. Study selection and data extraction were performed by two reviewers. Fifteen studies were included, reporting on 916 cases and 1261 controls. Studies largely focused on venous ulceration and investigated multiple haemostatic factors. An association between thrombophilia and non‐thrombotic CVD was identified, with greater prevalence and factor concentration alteration reported in patients compared to controls. Concomitant thrombophilia presence was associated with earlier CVD onset. Relationship strength varied, with commoner aetiologies showing clearer correlation than rarer ones. Thrombophilia is associated with non‐thrombotic CVD but the mechanism is unclear and causation cannot be determined. Future research should focus on prospective studies with larger populations and identify adjunct therapies targeting thrombophilia.
European consensus on the standardization of robotic total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer
Authors: Miskovic D. , Ahmed J. , Bissett‐Amess R. , Gómez Ruiz M. , Luca F. , Jayne D. , Figueiredo N. , Heald R. J. , Spinoglio G. , Parvaiz A. ,   the European Academy for Robotic Colorectal Surgery (EARCS)
Published: November 2018

Aim

Surgery for rectal cancer is challenging for both technical and anatomical reasons. The European Academy of Robotic Colorectal Surgery (EARCS) provides a competency‐based training programme through a standardized approach. However, there is no consensus on technical standards for robotic surgery when used during surgery for rectal cancer. The aim of this consensus study was to establish operative standards for anterior resection incorporating total mesorectal excision (TME) using robotic techniques, based on recommendations of expert European colorectal surgeons.

Method

A Delphi questionnaire with a 72‐item statement was sent through an electronic survey tool to 24 EARCS faculty members from 10 different countries who were selected based on expertise in robotic colorectal surgery. The task was divided into theatre setup, colonic mobilization and rectal dissection, and each task area was further divided into several subtasks. The levels of agreement (A* > 95% agreement, A > 90%, B > 80% and C > 70%) were considered adequate while agreement of < 70% was considered inadequate. Once consensus was reached, a draft document was compiled and sent out for final approval.

Results

The average length of experience of robotic colorectal surgery for participants in this study was 6 years. Initial agreement was 87%; in nine items, it was < 70%. After suggested modifications, the average level of agreement for all items reached 94% in the second round (range 0.75–1).

Conclusion

This is the first European consensus on the standardization of robotic TME. It provides a baseline for technical standards and structured training in robotic rectal surgery.
Environmental gradients and the evolution of tri‐trophic interactions
Authors: Kergunteuil Alan , Röder Gregory , Rasmann Sergio
Published: November 2018

Long‐standing theory predicts herbivores and predators should drive selection for increased plant defences, such as the specific production of volatile organic compounds for attracting predators near the site of damage. Along elevation gradients, a general pattern is that herbivores and predators are abundant at low elevation and progressively diminish at higher elevations. To determine whether plant adaptation along such a gradient influences top‐down control of herbivores, we manipulated soil predatory nematodes, root herbivore pressure and plant ecotypes in a reciprocal transplant experiment. Plant survival was significantly higher for low‐elevation plants, but only when in the presence of predatory nematodes. Using olfactometer bioassays, we showed correlated differential nematode attraction and plant ecotype‐specific variation in volatile production. This study not only provides an assessment of how elevation gradients modulate the strength of trophic cascades, but also demonstrates how habitat specialisation drives variation in the expression of indirect plant defences.
Smart bacteria‐foraging algorithm‐based customized kernel support vector regression and enhanced probabilistic neural network for compaction quality assessment and control of earth‐rock dam
Authors: Wang Jiajun , Zhong Denghua , Adeli Hojjat , Wang Dong , Liu Minghui
Published: November 2018

Compaction quality assessment and control for an earth‐rock dam is the key measure to ensure dam safety. However, to date, the compaction quality assessment model has not been accurate enough, and no effective feedback control measures have been developed. Hybrid data mining algorithms have great potential for solving this problem. In this study, smart bacteria‐foraging algorithm‐based customized kernel support vector regression (SBFA‐CKSVR) is proposed for compaction quality assessment, whereas an enhanced probabilistic neural network (EPNN) is adopted for compaction quality control. SBFA integrates a bacteria‐foraging algorithm, chaos mapping, and adaptive and quantum computing to solve the high‐dimensional complex problem effectively. CKSVR is proposed to approximate a function in quadratic continuous integral space L2(R) where its hyperparameters are optimized by SBFA. Finally, SBFA‐CKSVR is used to establish a high‐precision compaction quality assessment model whereas the EPNN is adopted to realize the compaction quality feedback control. A three‐dimensional real‐time monitoring system for the earth‐rock dam is also developed based on SBFA‐CKSVR and EPNN. A large‐scale hydraulic engineering application proves the effectiveness and superiority of this research compared with the previous work.
Habitat fragmentation: A long and tangled tale
Authors: Fahrig Lenore
Published: November 2018

In this essay: I provide a brief history of habitat fragmentation research; I describe why its “non‐questions” (‘Is habitat fragmentation a big problem for wildlife species?” and, “Are the effects of habitat fragmentation generally negative or positive?”) are important to conservation; I outline my role in tackling these questions; I discuss reasons why the culture of habitat fragmentation research is largely incapable of accepting the answers; and I speculate on the future of habitat fragmentation research.
Effects of defoliation on whole‐plant maize characteristics as forage and energy crop
Authors: Bani Paolo , Grecchi Isabella , Ahmed Sadek , Ficuciello Valentina , Calamari Luigi , Tabaglio Vincenzo , Minuti Andrea
Published: November 2018

Hail affects yield and quality of maize crops, and consequences also depend on the growth stage at which the injury occurred. Whole‐plant maize (WPM) silage is often used within the same farm for cattle feeding and biogas production. The present study aimed to verify the effects of hail damage, simulated by artificial defoliation, on yield and chemical and nutritional features, as well as on biochemical methane potential (BMP) of maize forage. In a randomized block design with three replicates, four defoliation levels (0%, 33%, 66% and 100% of leaf area removal respectively) have been applied at either the V12 (12th leaf), R1 (silking) or R3 (milk) stages for two consecutive years. WPM yield, chemical and nutritional features, and BMP were measured. Dry‐matter (DM) yield per hectare was progressively reduced (p < 0.001) with increasing levels of defoliation and with application at V12 in comparison with R1 or R3 (1.26 vs. 1.39 and 1.46 kg ha−1 for V12 vs. R1 and R3; p < 0.003). Nutritive value and BMP per unit of product were less altered than dry‐matter yield per hectare by defoliation. Anticipating defoliation reduced net energy for lactation (5.26 vs. 5.46 MJ kg−1 DM for V12 and R3 respectively; p = 0.02). Total defoliation resulted in an accumulation of nitrates (NO3) compared to the other treatments (3.98 vs. 1.53 g NO3 kg−1 DM; p < 0.001). BMP was mainly reduced by early and complete defoliation. Equations were developed to estimate the effects of defoliation on yield, composition, and nutritive and energetic values of WPM.
Basics of memory B‐cell responses: lessons from and for the real world
Authors: Wong Rachel , Bhattacharya Deepta
Published: November 2018

The production of pathogen‐specific B cells and antibodies underlies protective immunity elicited by most vaccines and many infections. Humoral immunity follows a regulated process by which high‐affinity antibody‐secreting plasma cells and memory B cells are generated. Yet for certain pathogens, protective immunity is inefficiently generated and/or maintained. For example, Dengue virus infections lead to lasting immunity against re‐infection by the same serotype. However, if infected with a different Dengue serotype, the individual is predisposed to more severe disease than if he/she was completely naive. As another example, both natural infections with or vaccination against malaria do not necessarily lead to lasting immunity, as the same individual can be re‐infected many times over the course of a lifetime. In this review, we discuss how these real‐world problems can both instruct and be informed by recent basic studies using model organisms and antigens. An emphasis is placed on protective epitopes and functional distinctions between memory B‐cell subsets in both mice and humans. Using flavivirus and Plasmodium infections as examples, we also speculate on the differences between ineffective B‐cell responses that actually occur in the real world, and perfect‐world responses that would generate lasting immunity.
Experiential Learning through Community Co‐design in Interior Design Pedagogy
Authors: Thamrin Diana , Wardani Laksmi Kusuma , Sitindjak Ronald Hasudungan Irianto , Natadjaja Listia
Published: November 2018

The profit‐driven tendency of interior design trends and styles today has developed in line with the decrease of social awareness in design. The majority of interior design students also decide to pursue interior design education for its marketable and profitable purposes rather than seeing interior design as a field of opportunity to contribute to the social welfare of their communities. Hence, the objective of this research is to implement community service through co‐design in interior design pedagogy. The article describes the learning and design methods used based on human‐centred design approaches of co‐design and analyses the resulting benefits from this approach. Findings reveal that the process of collective creativity and collaborative development with the community enables a direct experience of learning and fosters a deeper connection and understanding of users. They also promote novel multidisciplinary design innovations, accommodate the community's potentials in the society and stimulate a reflexive impact, allowing students to reflect on their future role as interior designers in bringing positive changes to their community against the profit‐driven tendency of contemporary designers today.
A gender matching effect in learning with pedagogical agents in an immersive virtual reality science simulation
Authors: Makransky Guido , Wismer Philip , Mayer Richard E.
Published: November 2018

The main objective of this study is to determine whether boys and girls learn better when the characteristics of the pedagogical agent are matched to the gender of the learner while learning in immersive virtual reality (VR). Sixty‐six middle school students (33 females) were randomly assigned to learn about laboratory safety with one of two pedagogical agents: Marie or a drone, who we predicted serve as a role models for females and males, respectively. The results indicated that there were significant interactions for the dependent variables of performance during learning, retention, and transfer, with girls performing better with Marie (d = 0.98, d = 0.67, and d = 1.03; for performance, retention, and transfer, respectively) and boys performing better with the drone (d = −0.41, d = −0.45, d = −0.23, respectively). The results suggest that gender‐specific design of pedagogical agents may play an important role in VR learning environments.
FAM3B (PANDER) functions as a co‐activator of FOXO1 to promote gluconeogenesis in hepatocytes
Authors: Chi Yujing , Meng Yuhong , Wang Junpei , Yang Weili , Wu Zhe , Li Mei , Wang Di , Gao Fangfang , Geng Bin , Tie Lu , Zhang Weiping , Yang Jichun
Published: November 2018

FAM3B, also known as PANcreatic DERived factor (PANDER), promotes gluconeogenesis and lipogenesis in hepatocytes. However, the underlying mechanism(s) still remains largely unclear. This study determined the mechanism of PANDER‐induced FOXO1 activation in hepatocytes. In mouse livers and cultured hepatocytes, PANDER protein is located in both the cytoplasm and nucleus. Nuclear PANDER distribution was increased in the livers of obese mice. In cultured mouse and human hepatocytes, PANDER was co‐localized with FOXO1 in the nucleus. PANDER directly interacted with FOXO1 in mouse and human hepatocytes. PANDER overexpression enhanced PANDER‐FOXO1 interaction, and detained FOXO1 in the nucleus upon insulin stimulation in hepatocytes. With the increase in PANDER‐FOXO1 interaction, PANDER overexpression upregulated the expression of gluconeogenic genes and promoted gluconeogenesis in both human and mouse hepatocytes. Luciferase reporter assays further revealed that PANDER augmented the transcriptional activity of FOXO1 on gluconeogenic genes. Moreover, PANDER overexpression also interfered the binding of AS1842856, a specific FOXO1 inhibitor, with FOXO1, and impaired its inhibitory effects on gluconeogenic gene expression and gluconeogenesis in hepatocytes. siRNA mediated‐silencing of FOXO1 inhibited PANDER‐promoted gluconeogenic gene expression and glucose production in hepatocytes. In conclusion, PANDER protein is abundantly present in the nucleus, where it functions as a new co‐activator of FOXO1 to induce gluconeogenic gene expression in hepatocytes.
Host, agent and environment interactions affecting Nervous necrosis virus infection in Australian bass Macquaria novemaculeata
Authors: Jaramillo Diana , Fielder Stewart , Whittington Richard J. , Hick Paul
Published: November 2018

Australian bass Macquaria novemaculeata were challenged by immersion with nervous necrosis virus (NNV) at different ages and under controlled conditions to investigate factors affecting disease expression. Fish challenged at 3 weeks of age with 103 TCID50/ml and higher doses developed clinical disease; a lower dose of 102 TCID50/ml resulted in incidence below 100% and 101 TCID50/ml was insufficient to cause infection. Additionally, fish were challenged at 5, 6 and 13 weeks of age at 17 and 21°C to assess the role of the age of the host and water temperature on disease expression. Although Australian bass challenged at all ages had evidence of replication of NNV, only those challenged at 3 weeks of age (20 and 24 days post−hatch [dph]) developed clinical disease. Higher water temperature had an additive effect on disease expression in larvae challenged at 24 dph, but it did not affect the disease outcome in older fish. Finally, isolates of NNV derived from fish with clinical or subclinical disease presentations caused similar cumulative mortality and clinical signs when larvae at 24 dph were challenged, suggesting that agent variation was not responsible for variation in clinical presentation in these field outbreaks of NNV infection.
Peripheral axonopathy in sciatic nerve of adult Wistar rats following exposure to vanadium
Authors: Mustapha Oluwaseun A. , Olude Matthew A. , Bello Stephen T. , Taiwo Ayobami , Jagun Afusat , Olopade James O.
Published: November 2018

Depletion of myelin and neurobehavioural deficits are indications that vanadium crosses the blood‐brain barrier and such neurotoxic effects of vanadium on the brain of Wistar rats have been elucidated. The effect however on the peripheral nerves, is yet to be reported. Thus, this work was designed to evaluate the axonal and myelin integrity of sciatic nerves in Wistar rats following exposure to vanadium.

Ten male Wistar rats were exposed to 3 mg/kg body weight of sodium metavanadate for 7 days, subjected to rearing and forelimb grip behavioural tests, and sciatic nerves processed for histology (haematoxylin and eosin, cresyl violet, and luxol fast blue). Dystrophic axons with vesiculated myelin, thinned myelin sheath, and demyelinated axons were observed in the vanadium exposed rats, suggestive of axonopathy, classified as fourth‐degree nerve injury. Lower behavioural scores were recorded for vanadium‐dosed rats; thus, corroborating histological pictures observed of the sciatic nerves. Authors posit that vanadium crossed the “blood‐nerve” barrier and caused the observed axonal pathologies and myelin depletion in the sciatic nerves of these rodents with resultant motor deficits. The present paper discusses possible motor deficits and the likely public health importance in regions with crude oil pollution and gas flaring rich in vanadium products.
The Biologic Role of Sex Steroid Receptors in the Decidualization of Human Endometrium
Authors: Tamaya Teruhiko , Fujimoto Jiro , Arabori Kenji , Wada Keisuke , Kato Yoshiko , Okada Hiroji
Published: November 2018

This study was designed to elucidate the action of steroids in decidualization of stromal cells by a study of steroid receptor interaction in the human uterine endometrium.

Dispersed endometrial stroma cells were found to contain receptor for estrogen (ER), progesterone (PR) and androgen (AR). Dissected uterine and ovarian arteries contained cytosol ER, and AR, but not PR. Human pregnant uterine decidua contained ER, PR and AR, whose levels did not seem to alter remarkably with advance of gestation during the first trimester.

In cultured endometrial fibroblasts, the same three receptors were detected; estrogen stimulated synthesis of all steroid receptors, but progesterone with estrogen did not.

These findings suggest that estrogen stimulates steroid receptor synthesis in mesenchymal fibroblasts around the uterine spiral arteries, and that progesterone and estrogen via their receptors cause differentiation of fibroblasts to decidual cells, in which steroid receptors are active during pregnancy.
Cord Blood Immunoglobulin M and Perinatal Outcome
Authors: Legge Michael , Evans Karen , Martin Frances
Published: November 2018

Cord blood immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin A (IgA) levels were measured in 323 consecutive newborn infants with gestational ages ranging from 36–41 weeks. Seven of the samples (2.2%) were classified as being contaminated with maternal blood. Of the remaining 316 samples no significant difference could be demonstrated between sex (P > 0.05) or race (P > 0.05). There was no correlation with birth weight (r=0.084) or with advancing gestational age (P > 0.05) for each gestational group. Using a 95th percentile cut‐off limit of 23 mg/dl, 18 infants (5.7%) had elevated cord blood IgM levels. Fourteen of these infants had IgM levels below 30 mg/dl and demonstrated no evidence of infection. Four infants had IgM levels greater than 30 mg/dl. One infant had a rash and vomiting, one had no detectable abnormality and two had imperforate anuses. Fifteen infants (4.8%) demonstrated varying degrees of perinatal morbidity, none of these had elevated cord blood IgM levels. No evidence of infection was detected in any of the infants in this series.
Advancements in MAPK signaling pathways and MAPK‐targeted therapies for ameloblastoma: A review
Authors: You Zhu , Liu Shao‐Peng , Du Jing , Wu Yi‐Hua , Zhang Shi‐Zhou
Published: November 2018

Numerous signal transduction pathways are closely associated with the occurrence, development, and prognosis of ameloblastoma (AM). Mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) is a serine/threonine‐specific protein kinase that transduces intracellular signals in critical cellular phenomena. A number of recent analyses have reported that the MAPK signaling pathway contributes significantly to AM. High‐throughput DNA sequencing methods, such as next‐generation sequencing using Illumina have yielded advancements in studies on MAPK signaling pathways and their association with AM; in particular, BRAF V600E is mediated by the activation of the Ras/Raf/MAPK pathway. This review discusses advancements in studies on MAPK signaling pathways and MAPK‐targeted inhibitors or antibodies, along with the merits and demerits of MAPK‐targeted therapies, finally followed by a discussion regarding more efficient potential MAPK‐targeted therapies to treat AM with few side effects, thereby providing novel insights into targeted therapy for AM.
Effects of formulation composition on the characteristics of mucoadhesive films prepared by hot-melt extrusion technology
Authors: Bhagurkar Ajinkya M , Darji Mittal , Lakhani Prit , Thipsay Priyanka , Bandari Suresh , Repka Michael A
Published: November 2018

Objectives

To investigate the effects of formulation composition on the physico-chemical and drug release properties of mucoadhesive buccal films prepared by melt extrusion technology, using a response surface methodology.

Methods

Salbutamol sulphate, an antiasthmatic drug was used for this study. Klucel hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC) EF (film-forming polymer), Benecel hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) K-15M (drug release retardant) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) 4500 (plasticiser) were the three independent factors utilised for the study. The responses were fitted to a full quadratic model and P-values for each of the factors were used to determine their significance on the film characteristics.

Key findings

Films were successfully extruded using the corotating twin-screw extruder. The torque during extrusion was found to be significantly affected by all the three factors and no interaction between factors was observed. A significant interaction was observed between HPC and PEG 4500 for stiffness of films. For disintegration time and swelling index, a significant interaction was found between HPC and HPMC. The in vitro % drug release was directly correlated with HPMC content and not with other factors and varied from 69–89% at 4 h.

Conclusions

The influence of extrusion process and formulation parameters on salbutamol sulphate films was elucidated, indicating the use of melt extrusion as a feasible method for film preparation.
Reduced quality of life and greater psychological distress in vasovagal syncope patients compared to healthy individuals
Authors: Ng Jessica , Sheldon Robert S. , Ritchie Debbie , Raj Vidya , Raj Satish R.
Published: November 2018

Background

Vasovagal syncope (VVS) patients have a reduced health‐related quality of life (HRQoL). There are limited data comparing HRQoL and psychological profile in VVS patients and healthy individuals. We tested the hypothesis that VVS patients have greater impairment in both HRQoL and psychological profile compared to healthy nonfainting individuals, and that both outcome measures are negatively correlated for VVS patients.

Methods

The RAND 36‐Item Health Survey (RAND36), global health visual analogue scale (VAS), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Anxiety Sensitivity Index, and Positive and Negative Affect Schedule – Expanded Form were completed by healthy individuals and at baseline by VVS patients enrolled in the Second Prevention of Syncope Trial, a randomized, placebo‐controlled trial of fludrocortisone for VVS.

Results

Data were available on 76 VVS patients (34 ± 14 years; 68% F) and 85 healthy participants (35 ± 11 years; 80% F). Compared to healthy participants, VVS patients reported poorer HRQoL on all scales of the RAND36 and the VAS. VVS patients had significantly greater anxiety, depression, and anxiety sensitivity (each P < 0.001). VVS patients had more negative affect (P < 0.001) and less positive affect (P = 0.003) compared to healthy participants. Anxiety, depression, and anxiety sensitivity were negatively correlated with HRQoL for VVS patients, but not for healthy participants.

Conclusion

In this first direct comparison, VVS patients have a significantly reduced HRQoL and more anxiety and depression compared to healthy nonfainting individuals. For VVS patients, there is a relationship between psychological distress and HRQoL, suggesting a potential benefit from more comprehensive assessment and treatment.
Variable resistance of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum) lines carrying 2NS/2AS translocation to wheat blast
Authors: Cardozo Téllez Lourdes , Chavez Alice , Bobadilla Nathalia , Pérez‐Estigarribia Pastor , Kohli Mohan
Published: November 2018

Wheat blast disease, caused by Magnaporthe oryzae (anamorph Pyricularia oryzae), produces severe damage to wheat production in South America. It was observed that many resistant cultivars contain the 2NS/2AS translocation from Triticum ventricosum. In this study, we evaluate the presence of the 2NS/2AS translocation in 57 advanced breeding lines and one variety ‘Caninde 1’ from Paraguayan wheat germplasm, using VENTRIUP‐LN2 primers. The germplasm ‘Caninde 1 and 22’ of the breeding lines, found positive for the presence of 2NS/2AS translocation, were inoculated with a single aggressive Magnaporthe pathotype P14‐039, to assess their response to wheat blast infection under controlled conditions. Based on the disease infection score, ten of the breeding lines, ‘Caninde 1’ and ‘Milan’ (positive control), were classified as resistant. Three of the remaining breeding lines were classified as moderately resistant, five as moderately susceptible and other four as susceptible. Our results show that the expression of 2NS/2AS‐based blast resistance is more dependent on genetic background of the inserted germplasm than previously envisioned.
Amantadine as adjuvant therapy in the treatment of moderate to severe obsessive–compulsive disorder: A double‐blind randomized trial with placebo control
Authors: Naderi Sina , Faghih Heidar , Aqamolaei Ali , Mortazavi Seyyed Hosein , Mortezaei Amirhosein , Sahebolzamani Erfan , Rezaei Farzin , Akhondzadeh Shahin
Published: November 2018

Aim

The role of the glutamatergic system in the pathogenesis of obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) has been shown by numerous studies. The aim of the present randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, 12‐week trial was to assess the efficacy and tolerability of amantadine as an adjuvant to fluvoxamine in the treatment of patients with moderate to severe OCD.

Methods

One hundred patients diagnosed with moderate to severe OCD were randomized into two parallel groups to receive fluvoxamine (100 mg twice a day) plus placebo or fluvoxamine (100 mg twice a day) plus amantadine (100 mg daily) for 12 weeks. All patients received 100 mg/day fluvoxamine for 28 days followed by 200 mg/day for the rest of the trial, regardless of their treatment groups. Patients were evaluated for response to treatment using the Yale–Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (Y‐BOCS) at baseline and at Weeks 4, 10, and 12. The main outcome measure was to assess the efficacy of amantadine in improving the OCD symptoms.

Results

Repeated‐measure analysis of variance showed a significant effect for Time × Treatment interaction (Greenhouse–Geisser corrected: F = 3.84, d.f. = 1.50, P = 0.03) in the Y‐BOCS total score and a significant effect for Time × Treatment interaction (Greenhouse–Geisser corrected: F = 5.67, d.f. = 1.48, P < 0.01) in the Y‐BOCS Obsession subscale score between the two groups.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest that amantadine may be effective as an augmentative agent in the treatment of moderate‐to‐severe OCD.
Feasibility of describing community strengths relative to Omaha system concepts
Authors: Kerr Madeleine J. , Gargantua‐Aguila Sebastiana del Rosario , Glavin Kari , Honey Michelle L. L. , Nahcivan Nursen O. , Secginli Selda , Martin Karen S. , Monsen Karen A.
Published: November 2018

Objectives

The purpose was to determine the feasibility of using a standardized language, the Omaha System, to describe community‐level strengths. The objectives were: (a) to evaluate the feasibility of using the Omaha System at the community level to reflect community strengths and (b) to describe preliminary results of community strengths observations across international settings.

Design and Sample

A descriptive qualitative design was used. The sample was a data set of 284 windshield surveys by nursing students in 5 countries: Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, Turkey, and the United States.

Measures

An online survey included a checklist and open‐ended questions on community strengths for 11 concepts of the Omaha System Problem Classification Scheme: Income, Sanitation, Residence, Neighborhood/workplace safety, Communication with community resources, Social contact, Interpersonal relationship, Spirituality, Nutrition, Substance use, and Health care supervision. Themes were derived through content analysis of responses to the open‐ended questions.

Results

Feasibility was demonstrated: Students were able to use the Omaha System terms and collect data on strengths. Common themes were described among the five countries.

Conclusions

The Omaha System appears to be useful in documenting community‐level strengths. Themes and exemplar quotes provide a first step in developing operational definitions of strengths at a more granular level.
Summary of the 2018 Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) Guideline on hepatitis C in chronic kidney disease
Authors: Gordon Craig E. , Balk Ethan M. , Francis Jean M.
Published: November 2018

KDIGO recently updated its clinical practice guideline for the prevention, diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The management of HCV in patients with CKD has dramatically shifted over the past 10 years with the development of direct‐acting antiviral (DAA) agents and subsequent demonstration of their efficacy in CKD populations. The opportunity to cure HCV with DAA treatment has impacted all aspects of the KDIGO guideline on HCV in CKD including: (a) HCV diagnosis in CKD populations; (b) HCV treatment in CKD populations; (c) preventing HCV transmission in HD units; (d) management of HCV before and after kidney transplantation; and (e) management of HCV‐associated glomerular disease. This review summarizes and discusses the major recommendations, along with the implication of the guideline on clinical practice.
Antigen‐specific CD8 T cells in cell cycle circulate in the blood after vaccination
Authors: Simonetti Sonia , Natalini Ambra , Folgori Antonella , Capone Stefania , Nicosia Alfredo , Santoni Angela , Di Rosa Francesca
Published: November 2018

Although clonal expansion is a hallmark of adaptive immunity, the location(s) where antigen‐responding T cells enter cell cycle and complete it have been poorly explored. This lack of knowledge stems partially from the limited experimental approaches available. By using Ki67 plus DNA staining and a novel strategy for flow cytometry analysis, we distinguished antigen‐specific CD8 T cells in G0, in G1 and in S‐G2/M phases of cell cycle after intramuscular vaccination of BALB/c mice with antigen‐expressing viral vectors. Antigen‐specific cells in S‐G2/M were present at early times after vaccination in lymph nodes (LNs), spleen and, surprisingly, also in the blood, which is an unexpected site for cycling of normal non‐leukaemic cells. Most proliferating cells had high scatter profile and were undetected by current criteria of analysis, which under‐estimated up to 6 times antigen‐specific cell frequency in LNs. Our discovery of cycling antigen‐specific CD8 T cells in the blood opens promising translational perspectives.
Ten‐Year Trend and Correlates of Reported Posttraumatic Stress Disorder among Young Male Veteran Suicide Decedents—Results from the National Violent Death Reporting System, 16 U.S. States, 2005–2014
Authors: O'Donnell Julie , Logan Joseph , Bossarte Robert
Published: November 2018

Objective

This study examined trends and correlates of reported post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among young male Veteran suicide decedents, using data from the National Violent Death Reporting System from 2005–2014 on 1,362 male U.S. Veteran suicide decedents aged 18–34 years.

Methods

Prevalence of reported PTSD (i.e., diagnosis/symptoms) was determined by mental health diagnostic fields and narratives and examined by year. Demographic, incident, and precipitating circumstance characteristics correlated with reported PTSD were identified.

Results

One‐hundred ninety‐eight (15%) decedents had PTSD evidence. A 30‐fold increase in reported PTSD prevalence occurred among decedents aged 25–34 years; however, no increase was observed among younger decedents. Reported PTSD was associated with past deployments (odds ratio (OR): 14.5, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 9.0–23.4); depression (OR: 1.8, 95% CI: 1.2–2.6); and divorce (OR: 1.7, 95% CI: 1.0–2.7). Recent crisis (OR: 0.6, 95% CI: 0.3–0.9) was inversely associated with reported PTSD.

Conclusions

Reported PTSD prevalence substantially increased among Veteran suicide decedents aged 25–34 years suggesting it is beginning to play a larger role in suicide for this group. Few correlated suicide risk factors were found, suggesting that if symptoms of PTSD are present, heightened vigilance by providers for suicide risk might be warranted, irrespective of evidence of other risk factors.
Understanding geographical patterns of a city’s diurnal rhythm from aggregate data of location‐aware services
Authors: Ma Ting , Pei Tao , Song Ci , Liu Yaxi , Du Yunyan , Liao Xiaohan
Published: November 2018

Do collective behaviors of the daily routine of a city's inhabitants form the periodical cycling of human activity at the city level (here termed the “city's diurnal rhythm”)? If the answer is yes, do there exist geographical patterns in the city's diurnal rhythm? Using a nationwide dataset of observed uses of location‐aware services in the largest Chinese social media platform, we first confirm the significant periodicity in city‐level human activity from the perspective of the aggregate degree of social media uses over a day. We then investigate geographical changes in the diurnal rhythm of human activity and its local variations in different parts of the city, and between weekdays and weekend days, over 340 Chinese cities. Our results show that a city's diurnal rhythm across the whole country exhibits both regular, nationally conspicuous shifts along geographical gradients and locally distinct spatiotemporal changes within the city. Our findings could provide insights into the characterization of the daily routine of city‐level human activity and its geographical patterns, and have potential for several issues in terms of planning, management, and decision‐making related to human population dynamics.