bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oncogenes and Cancer
Authors: LYNCH DAVID H.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Early studies designed to investigate the molecular basis of oncogenesis indicated the existence of discrete genes which could cause neoplastic transformation of normal cells in vitro. These genes (which became known as oncogenes) were originally thought to be derived from oncogenic retroviruses and neoplastic transformation was believed to be the result of infection of normal cells by an oncogenic retrovirus. However, recent studies have demonstrated that normal eukaryotic cells contain gene sequences which are highly homologous to oncogenes but which do not cause neoplastic transformation. These genes (termed proto‐oncogenes) have been found to code for proteins which are intimately involved in the regulation of mitosis. These include growth factors, receptors for growth factors, proteins (such as protein kineses and GTP binding proteins) which transduce exogenous signals through the plasma membrane, and nuclear binding proteins. Thus, if the function or control of a proto‐oncogene (or its product) is altered by mutation, gene rearrangement, or translocation, its effects on the cell will also change. This, in turn, can lead to the loss of normal mitotic control. The tumorigenic process is, of course, much more complicated that just unchecked cell growth. However, the insights into the molecular basis of cellular regulation have suggested new approaches to the early diagnosis of cancer and may ultimately lead to the development of more effective treatment protocols.
Immunohistochemical Characterization of Stromal Leucocytes in Nonpregnant Human Endometrium
Authors: BULMER JUDITH N. , LUNNY DECLAN P. , HAGIN SUSAN V.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Stromal leucocytes in normal premenopausal human endometrium were characterised by an indirect immunperoxidase technique employing a panel of monoclonal antibodies. T cells were scanty in proliferative endometrium but increased in frequency in the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle. An additional population of phenotypically unusual lymphocytes (CD2‐positive, CD3‐negative) was detected in the stratum functionalis in mid‐ and late secretory phase endometrium, particularly in areas exhibiting pseudodecidual change. The distribution of these unusual lymphocytes mirrored that of the so‐called “endometrial stromal granulocytes,” which have recently been shown to be granulated lymphocytes. Macrophages were common throughout the menstrual cycle. B lymphocytes were detected in lymphoid aggregates in the basalis but rarely in the functionalis.
Monoclonal Antibodies to Porcine Zona Pellucida That Block the Initial Stages of Fertilization
Authors: KYURKCHIEV STANIMIR D. , SURNEVA‐NAKOVA TSVETANA N. , IVANOVA MARIA D. , NAKOV LYUDMIL S. , DIMITROVA EVTIMIA H.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Zona pellucida (ZP) is thought to be of utmost biological importance in the early stages of fertilization and implantation. Current hybridoma technology was used to produce monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) against specific antigens to porcine ZP. Two monoclonal antibodies (4F2 and 2D9) were raised that reacted against ZP antigens shared by human and porcine ZP. These antibodies were shown to block fertilization of human oocytes in in vitro fertilization (IVF). It is likely that MAb 4F2 recognized a protein epitope localized on the outer surface of ZP. These antibodies may be quite useful immunologic probes for studying the precise mechanisms of the early events of fertilization in mammals.
The Role of Social Isolation in Suicide
Authors: Trout Deborah L.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT:This paper reviews the literature which relates to the role of social isolation in suicide. Major areas reviewed include theories on suicide and social isolation, measures of social isolation, and empirical studies which concern the relationship of social isolation to suicide. Social isolation seems to be related to suicidal behaviors in a direct and fundamental way. Implications for helping contacts and the community are addressed.
Changing Patterns in Methods of Suicide by Race and Sex
Authors: Mcintosh John L. , Santos John F.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT:Suicide rates vary greatly by sex and race but the methods employed by these groups and changes in those methods have been studied neither closely nor systematically across time. In the present study annual official national statistics for specific methods of suicide by sex and racial group from 1923 to 1978 were examined. During this time period shifts were found among groups in the proportions of various suicide methods employed, most notably for women and Asian‐Americans. Generally, firearm use increased among nearly all ethnic/racial‐sex groups while the use of poisons declined. Although women continue to be more likely than men to kill themselves with solid and liquid poisons, in very recent years firearms have become a more common method. Among Japanese ‐ and Chinese‐Americans of both sexes the most frequently employed method has been hanging. Although this is still the case, the proportions have declined over time while the use of firearms has increased. Explanations are offered for the noted changes in method choice with particular attention being given to acculturation and changing societal roles.
A Death in the Family: Parental Bereavement in the First Year
Authors: Cook Judith A.
Published: December 2015

This article examines parents' descriptions of their experiences in the first year after a child's death from cancer or a blood disorder. Interviews and questionnaires were used to gather information from 145 parents of children treated for oncologic or hematological diseases at a large, urban pediatric hospital who died during the years 1975 through 1979. Descriptive and survey data revealed differences between maternal and paternal mourning. Men and women differed significantly in the extent to which they encountered distance and lack of comfort in spousal relationships and difficulty during first year post‐death holidays. Findings are discussed in light of the nature of relationships with the deceased child and other family members.
Suicide and Euthanasia—Special Types of Partner Relationships
Authors: Pohlmeier Hermann
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Euthanasia is a controversial and important issue in West Germany, especially given the Nazis'killing of minorities during World War II. This paper concentrates on the joint issues of suicide and euthanasia in the context of the doctor‐patient relationship. A new evaluation of suicide prevention and euthanasia, especially as they relate to the training of medical students and doctors, is advocated.
Suicides in the Nazi Concentration Camps
Authors: Ryn Zdzislaw
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: On the basis of psychiatric interviews with 69 former prisoners of the Auschwitz‐Birkenau concentration camp, this paper describes the circumstances, motives, and ways of committing suicide in the camp. The interviews made it clear that thousands of prisoners perished by suicide. The number of committed suicides was larger than that of attempted suicides. The most frequent types of suicide victims were prisoners of Jewish descent, foreigners, white‐collar workers, and old people. The most common motives of suicides were depressive reactions; anxiety; somatic illnesses; the threat of death; emotional motives; loss of emotional support; beatings and tortures; and patriotic and altruistic motives. The most common methods of committing suicide were flinging oneself onto the electrified wires surrounding the camp, hanging, poisoning, cutting one's veins, and drowning. There were also cases of mass suicides, chiefly in the women's camp. Suicides committed from patriotic or altruistic motives testified to the fact that human beings were able to preserve their dignity even in the face of death.
Suicidal Behavior among “Normal” High School Students
Authors: Smith Kim , Crawford Sylvia
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The findings of a pilot study, focusing on suicidal behaviors among 313 high school students in the Midwest, are discussed. Of all the students who participated in the study, 62.6% reported some degree of suicidal ideation or action, including 8.4% who had actually made a suicide attempt. The current study provides a linchpin between the studies of adolescent suicide attempt rates and the studies reporting on percentages of adolescents who made suicide attempts. When the percentage of attempters who made attempts but did not seek medical help is taken under consideration, these two groups of studies become equivalent. Apparently, suicide is a personal concern for most high school students—a problem that warrants immediate attention.
Interpersonal Problem‐Solving Deficits in Self‐Poisoning Patients
Authors: McLeavey Breda C. , Daly Robert J. , Murray Carol M. , O'Riordan John , Taylor Maxwell
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Self‐poisoning patients (n = 40) were compared with psychiatric patients (n = 40) and nonpatient controls (n = 20) on measures of interpersonal problem‐solving skills and locus of control in an effort to determine the importance of these cognitive and personality variables in self‐poisoning behavior. The psychiatric and self‐poisoning groups showed deficits on measures assessing interpersonal problem solving when compared with nonpatient controls. The self‐poisoning group performed below the level of the psychiatric patients on all except one test, on which they performed at the level of the psychiatric group. Locus of control did not differentiate self‐poisoning patients from nonpatient controls, and it was concluded that this variable is not an important factor in self‐poisoning behavior.
Hypnotic Overdoses and Fairy Tales: Snow White and the Uses of Disenchantment
Authors: Pommereau Xavier , Delile Jean Michel , Caule Emmanuelle
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: In most Western countries, more than two‐thirds of attempted suicides are among women suffering from drug overdoses. Explanations for women's use of less violent methods include the wish to avoid disfiguration, the influence of upbringing, and sex differences in cultural expectations. Many women under stress have a weaker intention to die, and their suicidal act is generally less a deliberate search for death than a desire to live another life, indicating a need to escape from a difficult situation. In this respect, the suicidal woman's desire to sleep through an overdose coma is very significant. We call to mind the strength of the kinship between death and sleep. Reinterpreting the fairy tale “Snow White” and making a parallel with some contemporary clinical cases, we show that the illusion of a nondefinitive death is often assimilated, in Western culture, with a step toward rebirth.
Suicide among American Indian Adolescents: An Overview
Authors: Berlin Irving N.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Suicide has become a major concern of many Indian tribes and pueblos, as the rates in these tribes have increased dramatically in the last decade. One of the critical research questions is how to explain the vastly different rates of adolescent suicide among tribes. Research has identified some common patterns in experience and behavior among Indian adolescent suicides; these patterns are similar in many ways to those found in the Los Angeles suicide research of Teicher (1979). Chronic versus acute stress factors in suicide are examined. Recent research has also identified a number of factors characterizing tribes with high suicide rates; these include failure to adhere to traditional ways of living, to traditional religion, and to clans and societies, and the resulting chaotic family structure and adult alcoholism. The roles of adoption of Indian children, boarding schools, and high unemployment in many tribes are also discussed. Suicide prevention and intervention programs are briefly described.
Youth Suicide: A Psychosocial Perspective
Authors: Hendin Herbert
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: I draw on my studies in different cultures and subcultures and in different age groups to develop a psychosocial perspective for viewing youthful suicide. This perspective utilizes disciplines ranging from demography to psychodynamics to discuss the relationship of violence to suicide; the role of families in producing youngsters who become preoccupied with death and suicide; and the directions that seem most profitable for future research.
Aokigahara‐jukai: Suicide and Amnesia in Mt. Fuji's Black Forest
Authors: Takahashi Yoshitomo
Published: December 2015

Aokigahara‐jukai (Jukai), a dense forest at the foot of Mt. Fuji, is well known as the leading suicide site in Japan, with about 30 people committing suicide there every year. This paper describes Jukai and three cases of psychogenic amnesia following attempted suicide there. Amnesia as an alternative to suicide and the significance of death in Jukai are discussed.
Comparison of Chromosome 4 gene expression profile between lung telocytes and other local cell types
Authors: Song Dongli , Cretoiu Dragos , Zheng Minghuan , Qian Mengjia , Zhang Miaomiao , Cretoiu Sanda M. , Chen Luonan , Fang Hao , Popescu Laurentiu M. , Wang Xiangdong
Published: December 2015

Telocytes (TCs) are new cellular entities of mesenchymal origin described almost ubiquitously in human and mammalian organs (www.telocytes.com). Different subtypes of TCs were described, all forming networks in the interstitial space by homo‐ and heterocellular junctions. Previous studies analysed the gene expression profiles of chromosomes 1, 2, 3, 17 and 18 of murine pulmonary TCs. In this study, we analysed by bioinformatics tools the gene expression profiles of chromosome 4 for murine pulmonary TCs and compared it with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), fibroblasts (Fbs), alveolar type II cells (ATII), airway basal cells, proximal airway cells, CD8(+) T cells from bronchial lymph nodes (T‐BL) and CD8(+) T cells from lungs (T‐L). Key functional genes were identified with the aid of the reference library of the National Center for Biotechnology Information Gene Expression Omnibus database. Seventeen genes were up‐regulated and 56 genes were down‐regulated in chromosome 4 of TCs compared with other cells. Four genes (Akap2, Gpr153, Sdc3 and Tbc1d2) were up‐regulated between one and fourfold and one gene, Svep1, was overexpressed over fourfold. The main functional networks were identified and analysed, pointing out to a TCs involvement in cellular signalling, regulation of tissue inflammation and cell expansion and movement.
Family‐centered prevention ameliorates the longitudinal association between risky family processes and epigenetic aging
Authors: Brody Gene H. , Yu Tianyi , Chen Edith , Beach Steven R.H. , Miller Gregory E.
Published: December 2015

Background

Research has suggested that ‘risky’ family processes have unforeseen negative consequences for health later in life. The purpose of this study was to further understanding of risky family environments and development of health vulnerabilities by (a) examining the likelihood that elevated levels of parental depressive symptoms when children are age 11 forecast accelerated epigenetic aging 9 years later at age 20; (b) determining whether participation in an efficacious family‐centered prevention program focused on enhancing supportive parenting and strengthening family relationships will ameliorate this association; and (c) testing a moderation‐mediation hypothesis that prevention‐induced reductions in harsh parenting across adolescence will account for prevention effects in reducing accelerated epigenetic aging.

Methods

In the rural southeastern United States, parents and 11‐year‐old children from 399 families participated in the Strong African American Families (SAAF) program or a control condition. Parents reported their own depressive symptoms when their children were 11, and both youths and parents reported youth exposure to harsh parenting at ages 11 and 16. Blood was drawn from youths at age 20 to measure accelerated epigenetic aging using a marker derived from the DNA methylation of cells.

Results

Elevated parental depressive symptoms forecast accelerated epigenetic aging among youths in the control condition, but not among SAAF participants. Moderated‐mediation analyses confirmed that reductions in harsh parenting accounted for SAAF's protective effects on epigenetic aging. Subsequent exploratory analyses indicated that accelerated epigenetic aging forecast emotional distress among young adults in the control condition but not among those who participated in SAAF.

Conclusions

This study is unique in using a randomized prevention trial to test hypotheses about the ways risky family processes contribute to accelerated epigenetic aging. The results suggest that developmentally appropriate family‐centered interventions designed to enhance parenting and strengthen families can buffer the biological residue of life in a risky family.
An assessment of West African seahorses in fisheries catch and trade
Authors: Cisneros‐Montemayor A. M. , West K. , Boiro I. S. , Vincent A. C. J.
Published: December 2015

This study provides the first assessment of a heavily traded West African seahorse species, Hippocampus algiricus, and the first information on short‐snouted seahorse Hippocampus hippocampus biology in Africa. A total of 219 seahorses were sampled from fisher catch in Senegal and The Gambia, with estimated height at reproductive activity for H. algiricus (161 mm) larger than mean ± s.d. catch height (150 ± 31 mm). Catch composition, height at reproductive activity and potential biases in fishery retention are discussed with regard to the current Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES) guidelines.
Evaluation of Diluents and A Selective Agar for Enumerating the Viable Number of Vibrio Spp. in Laboratory Broth and on Mackerel
Authors: Yoon Jae‐Hyun , Bae Young‐Min , Lee Sun‐Young
Published: December 2015

This study aimed at enumerating the viable number of various Vibrio spp., which cultured in tryptic soy broth with 3% NaCl (TSBN3) or inoculated in mackerels, on thiosulphate‐citrate‐bile salts‐sugar (TCBS) agar and tryptic soy agar with 3% NaCl (TSAN3), before and after storage at 4C for 3 or 7 days, depending on the use of seven diluents, including alkaline peptone water, phosphate buffered saline, artificial sea water with 2.5% NaCl (ASW2.5) or 0.75% NaCl (ASW0.75), deionized water with 3% NaCl (SSN3) or 0.85% NaCl (SSN0.85) and TSBN3. As a result, TSBN3 was the most effective, showing by 5.25 log10 cfu/mL on TCBS and 6.72 log10 cfu/mL on TSAN3 before storage. The highest numbers of Vibrio spp. were achieved when diluted in SSN3 after storage for 3 days. Importantly, TCBS caused significant (P < 0.05) underestimations for enumerating the actual number of Vibrio spp. In addition, the use of ASW2.5 caused significant decreases in enumerating Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio vulnificus in mackerels (P < 0.05) after storage at 4C for 7 days. It was determined that enumerating Vibrio spp. could be influenced, depending on the use of diluents and a selective medium.

Practical Applications

Vibrio spp. with high pathogenicity may cause serious illnesses to human beings. Then, effective detecting methods have been required for analyzing the presence of Vibrio spp. from various seafood accurately/rapidly. However, it was revealed that concomitant results achieved after application of such methods would be different, depending on the use of diluents and a selective medium. These results would lead to the potential of not only a significant underestimation for enumerating the actual number of Vibrio spp., but also causing foodborne outbreaks associated with seafood. Therefore, the present study investigated effects of various diluents and a selective medium for enumerating Vibrio spp. in seafood. This research will provide scientific information that can be used for developing a program linked to effective detection of pathogenic bacteria in food.
Effect of Plasma Nitriding Surface Modification on the Adhesion of Food Pathogens to Stainless Steel AISI 316 and AISI 304
Authors: Casarin Letícia Sopeña , de Oliveira Casarin Fabrício , Soares Tatiana Pacheco , Aguzzoli Cesar , Figueroa Carlos Alejandro , Soares Gabriel Vieira , Brandelli Adriano , Tondo Eduardo Cesar
Published: December 2015

Food pathogens like Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes can attach to surfaces commonly found in food processing environment, increasing the risk of foodborne diseases. Therefore, the use of effective strategies to reduce bacterial adhesion on equipment surfaces is a subject of great interest for food industries. The plasma nitriding treatment has been investigated for surface modification of biomedical materials, aiming to reduce bacterial attachment. However, this technology has not yet used in food equipment surfaces. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of plasma nitriding surface modification of stainless steels on the adhesion of S. Enteritidis and L. monocytogenes. Coupons of stainless steel AISI 316 and AISI 304 were treated with plasma nitriding (30 Pa, 100 W), and bacterial adhesion was compared with untreated coupons. Bacterial counts and surface hydrophobicity were analyzed before and after treatment. Results showed that plasma nitriding treatment modified the hydrophobicity of the stainless steel surfaces, and the number of attached cells was reduced when compared to untreated stainless steel coupons. Based on these results, plasma nitriding treatment may be a promising technology, which can be used to hinder bacterial attachment on stainless steel surfaces.

Practical Applications

The modification of stainless steel surfaces with plasma nitriding can influence on the bacterial adhesion, contributing with food safety. This surface treatment can be used in industrial scale before the manufacture of stainless steel equipment used in food industries. The use of equipment treated with plasma nitriding do not compromise food with chemical or physical residues, however, it should be used as an additional control measure to microbial hazards and do not substitute Good Hygiene Practices.
Microbiology and resistance in first episodes of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis: implications for management and prognosis
Authors: Friedrich Kilian , Nüssle Simone , Rehlen Tobias , Stremmel Wolfgang , Mischnik Alexander , Eisenbach Christoph
Published: December 2015

Purpose

International guidelines for antibiotic treatment of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) are based on studies conducted decades ago and do not reflect regional differences of bacterial epidemiology.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed epidemiology of agents, antibiotic resistance patterns, and survival in liver cirrhosis patients with their first episode of SBP during the years 2007–2013.

Results

Of the 311 patients included, 114 patients had a positive ascites culture, and 197 had an ascitic neutrophil count >250 μL. Gram‐positive bacteria (47.8%) were more frequently found than Gram‐negatives (44.9%), fungi in 7.2%. Enterobacter spp. (40.6%), Enterococcus spp. (26.1%), and Staphylcoccus spp. (13.8%) were the most frequently isolated agents. Third‐generation cephalosporins covered 70.2% of non‐nosocomial and 56.3% of nosocomial‐acquired SBP cases.When SBP was diagnosed by a positive ascitic culture, survival was highly significantly reduced (mean: 13.9 ± 2.9 months; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 8.1–19.8) compared with culture‐negative SBP patients (mean: 44.1 ± 5.4 months; 95% CI: 33.4–54.9; P = 0.000). Along with model of end‐stage liver disease score and intensive care unit contact, a positive ascites culture remained an independent risk factor associated with poor survival (odds ratio: 1.49; 95% CI: 1.09–2.03) in multivariate analysis; piperacillin/tazobactam proved to be an adequate antibiotic for nosocomial and non‐nosocomial SBP in 85.1% and 92.5%, respectively. SBP infection with Enterococcus spp. was associated with poor patient survival (P = 0.048).

Conclusions

Third‐generation cephalosporins have poor microbial coverage for treatment of SBP. Current guidelines need to adapt for the emerging number of Gram‐positive infectious agents in SBP patients.
A meta‐analysis of confocal laser endomicroscopy for the detection of neoplasia in patients with Barrett's esophagus
Authors: Xiong Yi‐Quan , Ma Shu‐Juan , Zhou Jun‐Hua , Zhong Xue‐Shan , Chen Qing
Published: December 2015

Background and Aims:

Barrett's esophagus (BE) is considered the most important risk factor for development of esophageal adenocarcinoma. Confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE) is a recently developed technique used to diagnose neoplasia in BE. This meta‐analysis was performed to assess the accuracy of CLE for diagnosis of neoplasia in BE.

Methods:

We searched EMBASE, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science to identify relevant studies for all articles published up to June 27, 2015 in English. The quality of included studies was assessed using QUADAS‐2. Per‐patient and per‐lesion pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, and negative likelihood ratio with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.

Results:

In total, 14 studies were included in the final analysis, covering 789 patients with 4047 lesions. Seven studies were included in the per‐patient analysis. Pooled sensitivity and specificity were 89% (95% CI: 0.82–0.94) and 83% (95% CI: 0.78–0.86), respectively. Ten studies were included in the per‐lesion analysis. Compared with the PP analysis, the corresponding pooled sensitivity declined to 77% (95% CI: 0.73–0.81) and specificity increased to 89% (95% CI: 0.87–0.90). Subgroup analysis showed that probe‐based CLE (pCLE) was superior to endoscope‐based CLE (eCLE) in pooled specificity [91.4% (95% CI: 89.7–92.9) vs 86.1% (95% CI: 84.3–87.8)] and AUC for the sROC (0.885 vs 0.762).

Conclusion:

Confocal laser endomicroscopy is a valid method to accurately differentiate neoplasms from non‐neoplasms in BE. It can be applied to BE surveillance and early diagnosis of esophageal adenocarcinoma.
Downregulation of serotonin reuptake transporter gene expression in healing colonic mucosa in presence of remaining low‐grade inflammation in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Tada Yasumasa , Ishihara Shunji , Kawashima Kousaku , Fukuba Nobuhiko , Sonoyama Hiroki , Kusunoki Ryusaku , Oka Akihiko , Mishima Yoshiyuki , Oshima Naoki , Moriyama Ichiro , Yuki Takafumi , Ishikawa Noriyoshi , Araki Asuka , Harada Yuji , Maruyama Riruke , Kinoshita Yoshikazu
Published: December 2015

Background and Aim

The serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT) terminates serotonin activity by removing it from interstitial space. Downregulated colonic SERT expression has been reported in irritable bowel disease (IBS), and symptoms resembling IBS occur in cases of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in remission; thus, a common pathogenesis for IBS and IBD is possible. However, little is known regarding SERT expression in colonic mucosa of IBD patients during healing.

Methods

Twenty‐two ulcerative colitis (UC) patients underwent colonoscopy examinations, during which inflamed mucosa was distinguished from that undergoing healing. Healing mucosa was classified into regular and irregular vessel patterns by narrowband imaging magnifying colonoscopy. Expressions of SERT and various inflammation‐related genes in biopsy samples were assessed using a polymerase chain reaction array system and real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Colitis model mice were established by administration of dextran sodium sulfate or transfer of CD4+ T cells isolated from SAMP1 mice, then time‐course changes of SERT and inflammatory gene expressions were observed in colonic mucosa.

Results

In UC patients, SERT expression in inflamed mucosa was significantly lower than in healing mucosa. SERT expression was decreased in healing mucosa with an irregular vessel pattern with mildly increased levels of inflammatory gene expression. In mice, SERT expression was suppressed in inflamed mucosa and continuously observed with low‐grade mucosal inflammation during colitis healing.

Conclusions

Sserotonin reuptake transporter expression is downregulated in healing colonic mucosa of UC patients and that suppression may be dependent on the presence of remaining low‐grade colonic inflammation.
University Students with Reading Difficulties: Do Perceived Supports and Comorbid Difficulties Predict Well‐Being and GPA?
Authors: Stack‐Cutler Holly L. , Parrila Rauno K. , Torppa Minna
Published: December 2015

We examined the impact of the number of comorbid difficulties, social support, and community support on life satisfaction and academic achievement among 120 university students or recent graduates with self‐reported reading difficulties. Participants completed a questionnaire assessing perceived social support, perceived community support, the number of comorbid difficulties in addition to reading difficulty, life satisfaction, and academic achievement (grade point average). Results supported a main effect model in which the number of comorbid difficulties and social, but not community, support predicted life satisfaction. Social and community support did not moderate the relationship between the number of comorbid difficulties and life satisfaction, lending no support to the buffering effect hypothesis. However, a mediation model showed that social support partially mediated the relationship between the number of comorbid difficulties and life satisfaction. Academic achievement did not correlate with any included variable.
New‐onset diabetes after liver transplantation: a national report from China Liver Transplant Registry
Authors: Ling Qi , Xu Xiao , Xie Haiyang , Wang Kai , Xiang Penghui , Zhuang Runzhou , Shen Tian , Wu Jian , Wang Weilin , Zheng Shusen
Published: December 2015

Background/Aims

New‐onset diabetes after transplantation (NODAT) is a serious complication of liver transplantation (LT). The present study aimed to investigate the risk factors of NODAT by a national survey using the China Liver Transplant Registry database.

Patients

A total of 10 204 non–pre‐existing diabetic patients undergone primary LT between January 2000 and December 2013 were included. Risk factors were identified by logistic regression analysis.

Results

NODAT occurred in 24.3% of liver recipients with a median follow‐up time of 2.6 years, and was associated with a significantly lower patient survival. NODAT increased not only diabetes related complications (e.g., infection, kidney failure) but also biliary stricture and cholangitis. NODAT patients who received hypoglycaemic treatment had a worse prognosis and a higher hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence compared with those without treatment. New‐onset hyperglycaemia (<30 days) was the major predictor of NODAT. Other risk factors included cold ischaemia time >9 h, recipient age >50 years, body mass index >25 kg/m2, other hepatitis (mainly hepatitis C), post‐transplant intensive care unit stay >15 days, cytomegalovirus infection and corticosteroid at discharge.

Conclusions

The incidence of NODAT in China is similar to that in Western countries. However, the NODAT‐related complications are more common and severer in China compared with those in Western countries. The major risk factors are different.
Computer‐aided diagnosis for estimating the malignancy grade of hepatocellular carcinoma using contrast‐enhanced ultrasound: an ROC observer study
Authors: Sugimoto Katsutoshi , Shiraishi Junji , Tanaka Hironori , Tsuchiya Kaoru , Aso Kazunobu , Kobayashi Yoshiyuki , Iijima Hiroko , Moriyasu Fuminori
Published: December 2015

Background & Aims

We are developing a computer‐aided diagnosis (CAD) system for estimating the malignancy grade of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) using contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS). In this study, observers estimated the malignancy grade of HCC with and without the cues provided by CAD.

Materials and Methods

Institutional review board approval was obtained and informed consent was waived. A total of 232 histologically confirmed HCCs were studied: 76 well‐differentiated HCC (w‐HCC), 133 moderately differentiated HCC (m‐HCC), and 23 poorly differentiated HCC (p‐HCC). In this observer study, CEUS vascular images acquired using the maximum intensity projection technique were displayed together with static B‐mode and Kupffer‐phase (defined as 10 min after injection) images. Five hepatologists independently assigned confidence ratings for the malignancy grade of each HCC. Each hepatologist first read each case without CAD and then immediately afterwards with CAD. The observers’ rating data were evaluated by multireader multicase receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.

Results

The overall sensitivity of our CAD system for discrimination between three histological differentiation grades of HCC was 87.5% (203/232). For discrimination between w‐HCC and m/p‐HCC, the mean area under the ROC curve (AUC) for the five observers was significantly improved from 0.779 ± 0.074 to 0.872 ± 0.090 with CAD (P = 0.0069). For discrimination between m‐HCC and p‐HCC, the mean AUC was also significantly improved from 0.713 ± 0.107 to 0.863 ± 0.101 with CAD (P = 0.0321).

Conclusion

The use of our CAD system can significantly improve the diagnostic performance of hepatologists in discriminating between three histological differentiation grades of HCC using CEUS.
Lithium isotopes and light lithophile element abundances in shergottites: Evidence for both magmatic degassing and subsolidus diffusion
Authors: Udry Arya , McSween Harry Y. , Hervig Richard L. , Taylor Lawrence A.
Published: December 2015

Degassed magmatic water was potentially the major source of surficial water on Mars. We measured Li, B, and Be abundances and Li isotope profiles in pyroxenes, olivines, and maskelynite from four compositionally different shergottites—Shergotty, QUE 94201, LAR 06319, and Tissint—using secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS). All three light lithophile elements (LLE) are incompatible: Li and B are soluble in H2O‐rich fluids, whereas Be is insoluble. In the analyzed shergottites, Li concentration decreases and Be concentration increases from cores to rims in pyroxenes. However, B concentrations do not vary consistently with Li and Be abundances, except in QUE 94201 pyroxenes. Additionally, abundances of these three elements in olivines show a normal igneous‐fractionation trend consistent with the crystallization of olivine before magma ascent and degassing. We expect that kinetic effects would lead to fractionation of 6Li in the vapor phase compared to 7Li during degassing. The Li isotope profiles, with increasing δ7Li from cores to rims, as well as Li and B profiles indicate possible degassing of hydrous fluids only for the depleted shergottite QUE 94201, as also supported by degassing models. Conversely, Shergotty, LAR 06319, and Tissint appear to have been affected by postcrystallization diffusion, based on their LLE and Li isotope profiles, accompanied by diffusion models. This process may represent an overlay on a degassing pattern. The LLE profiles and isotope profiles in QUE 94201 support the hypothesis that degassing of some basaltic shergottite magmas provided water to the Martian surface, although evidence may be obscured by subsolidus diffusion processes.
Climate variables explain neutral and adaptive variation within salmonid metapopulations: the importance of replication in landscape genetics
Authors: Hand Brian K. , Muhlfeld Clint C. , Wade Alisa A. , Kovach Ryan P. , Whited Diane C. , Narum Shawn R. , Matala Andrew P. , Ackerman Michael W. , Garner Brittany A. , Kimball John S. , Stanford Jack A. , Luikart Gordon
Published: December 2015

Understanding how environmental variation influences population genetic structure is important for conservation management because it can reveal how human stressors influence population connectivity, genetic diversity and persistence. We used riverscape genetics modelling to assess whether climatic and habitat variables were related to neutral and adaptive patterns of genetic differentiation (population‐specific and pairwise FST) within five metapopulations (79 populations, 4583 individuals) of steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in the Columbia River Basin, USA. Using 151 putatively neutral and 29 candidate adaptive SNP loci, we found that climate‐related variables (winter precipitation, summer maximum temperature, winter highest 5% flow events and summer mean flow) best explained neutral and adaptive patterns of genetic differentiation within metapopulations, suggesting that climatic variation likely influences both demography (neutral variation) and local adaptation (adaptive variation). However, we did not observe consistent relationships between climate variables and FST across all metapopulations, underscoring the need for replication when extrapolating results from one scale to another (e.g. basin‐wide to the metapopulation scale). Sensitivity analysis (leave‐one‐population‐out) revealed consistent relationships between climate variables and FST within three metapopulations; however, these patterns were not consistent in two metapopulations likely due to small sample sizes (N = 10). These results provide correlative evidence that climatic variation has shaped the genetic structure of steelhead populations and highlight the need for replication and sensitivity analyses in land and riverscape genetics.
Strong and stable geographic differentiation of swamp buffalo maternal and paternal lineages indicates domestication in the China/Indochina border region
Authors: Zhang Yi , Lu Yongfang , Yindee Marnoch , Li Kuan‐Yi , Kuo Hsiao‐Yun , Ju Yu‐Ten , Ye Shaohui , Faruque Md Omar , Li Qiang , Wang Yachun , Cuong Vu Chi , Pham Lan Doan , Bouahom Bounthong , Yang Bingzhuang , Liang Xianwei , Cai Zhihua , Vankan Dianne , Manatchaiworakul Wallaya , Kowlim Nonglid , Duangchantrasiri Somphot , Wajjwalku Worawidh , Colenbrander Ben , Zhang Yuan , Beerli Peter , Lenstra Johannes A. , Barker J. Stuart F.
Published: December 2015

The swamp type of the Asian water buffalo is assumed to have been domesticated by about 4000 years BP, following the introduction of rice cultivation. Previous localizations of the domestication site were based on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variation within China, accounting only for the maternal lineage. We carried out a comprehensive sampling of China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, Nepal and Bangladesh and sequenced the mtDNA Cytochrome b gene and control region and the Y‐chromosomal ZFY, SRY and DBY sequences. Swamp buffalo has a higher diversity of both maternal and paternal lineages than river buffalo, with also a remarkable contrast between a weak phylogeographic structure of river buffalo and a strong geographic differentiation of swamp buffalo. The highest diversity of the swamp buffalo maternal lineages was found in south China and north Indochina on both banks of the Mekong River, while the highest diversity in paternal lineages was in the China/Indochina border region. We propose that domestication in this region was later followed by introgressive capture of wild cows west of the Mekong. Migration to the north followed the Yangtze valley as well as a more eastern route, but also involved translocations of both cows and bulls over large distances with a minor influence of river buffaloes in recent decades. Bayesian analyses of various migration models also supported domestication in the China/Indochina border region. Coalescence analysis yielded consistent estimates for the expansion of the major swamp buffalo haplogroups with a credibility interval of 900 to 3900 years BP. The spatial differentiation of mtDNA and Y‐chromosomal haplotype distributions indicates a lack of gene flow between established populations that is unprecedented in livestock.
Endoplasmic reticulum membrane‐bound MoSec62 is involved in the suppression of rice immunity and is essential for the pathogenicity of Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Zhou Zhuangzhi , Pang Zhiqian , Li Guihua , Lin Chunhua , Wang Jing , Lv Qiming , He Chaozu , Zhu Lihuang
Published: December 2015

Pathogen‐associated molecular pattern (PAMP)‐triggered immunity (PTI) constitutes the first line of plant inducible immunity. As an important step of plant colonization, phytopathogens have to suppress PTI, and secreted effectors are therefore co‐evolved and deployed. In this study, we characterized the function of MoSec62 of Magnaporthe oryzae, the causal agent of the destructive rice blast. MoSec62 encodes a homologue of Sec62p, a yeast endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane transporter for precursors of secretory proteins. We showed that a T‐DNA insertion into the promoter region of MoSec62, causing a disturbance to the up‐regulation of MoSec62 expression during blast invasion, resulted in a complete loss of blast virulence of the mutant, M1575. Both 3,3′‐diaminobenzidine (DAB) staining of the infected rice leaves and expression analysis revealed that the infectious attempt by the mutant led to strong defence responses of rice. Consistently, in transcriptomic analysis of rice leaves subject to blast inoculation, a battery of defence responses was found to be induced exclusively on M1575 challenge. For further exploration, we tested the pathogenicity on a highly susceptible rice variety and detected the accumulation of Slp1, a known PTI suppressor. Both results suggested that the mutant most likely failed to overcome rice PTI. In addition, we showed that MoSec62 was able to rescue the thermosensitivity of a yeast Δsec62, and the MoSec62‐GFP fusion was co‐localized to the ER membrane, both suggesting the conservation of Sec62 homologues. In conclusion, our data indicate that MoSec62, probably as an ER membrane transporter, plays an essential role in antagonizing rice defence at the early stages of blast invasion.
Deafness and sign language in a Yucatec Maya community: Emergent Ethnographic Practice
Authors: MACDOUGALL J. PAIGE
Published: December 2015

This paper outlines the potential that community‐based, family‐oriented research strategies have for generating inclusive and sustainable local social programs. Examples drawn from long‐term fieldwork in an indigenous Mayan‐speaking community in Yucatán, Mexico highlight the utility of aligning ethnographic evaluations with available state resources in appropriate and holistic ways. There is a high percentage of deafness in the community of Chican, and a nondiscriminatory attitude toward sign language use that enables the involvement of deaf persons into everyday life activities. In Chican, deafness represents a positive constitutive feature of community identity; the locally developed Yucatec Mayan Sign Language is widely used among both deaf and hearing persons enabling for the inclusion of deaf persons in community life. However, disjuncture between local and state approaches toward community wellbeing are apparent in that state conceptualizations of deafness as a disabling condition, and indigenous identity as being problematic, contrast sharply with local understandings. Through carrying out in depth participant‐observation, I assumed the role I was assigned within community life, and thereby gained insight into local understanding of deafness, communication, and identity. Engaging with children, adolescents, extended family, and community leaders, I participated with family members across age and gender lines in their customary daily activities. By these means, I realized that external perceptions of Chican, concentrating primarily on the presence of deafness in the community, were overshadowing more pressing and generalized community needs. To facilitate local communications with state and humanitarian agencies, I founded a nonprofit organization called “YUCAN Make a Difference A.C.,” which envisions ethnographic practice as a pivotal force in generating mutually rewarding programs of social assistance. [applied anthropology, deafness and sign language, Yucatec Maya, ethnographic practice, nonprofit organizations]
A multilevel approach to knowledge sharing: Improving health services for families and children
Authors: AHMED NAHEED , LIMAYE RUPALI J. , HARLAN SARAH V.
Published: December 2015

Improving health services for families and children requires a multilevel approach, involving engagement with government agencies, implementing partners, and service providers to ensure the success of health interventions. The Knowledge for Health (K4Health) project uses a knowledge sharing and capacity building approach to improving health services, including family planning and sexual and reproductive health (FP/SRH). In order for current technical information on FP/SRH to reach policy makers, program managers, and service providers—from doctors and nurses working in health facilities to community health workers making home visits—K4Health first uses participatory methods to assess the health information needs of these key stakeholders, to ensure that interventions meet their specific needs. Using the needs assessment results, FP/SRH information is then tailored and packaged for each audience to influence decision making at the policy level, or improve counseling at the point of care, so that community members are able to make informed health decisions for their families. K4Health collaborates with local government agencies, engaging them in designing, implementing, and evaluating interventions, in order to facilitate ownership and sustained interest in the program. Through an illustrative example from a field project in Malawi, this article examines how knowledge management projects can and should engage with all stakeholders involved in FP/SRH, as by doing so, the impact of these programs can enhance health services and health for families and children. [social knowledge management, digital health, community health workers, Malawi, sexual and reproductive health, social networks]
“You don't take anything for granted”: The role of anthropology in improving services, policies, and parenting practices for adoptive families
Authors: ROMÁN BEATRIZ SAN , GAGGIOTTI HUGO , MARRE DIANA
Published: December 2015

This article examines the impact of the transnational adoption research of an interdisciplinary group of researchers (AFIN). Since 2004, AFIN has successfully developed several research projects with the participation of practitioners and adoptive families and their associations. AFIN uses an ethnographic method and an anthropological perspective—which provides insights on transnational adoption, politics, and professional culture in Spain. This combination has resulted in a substantial body of knowledge as well as the recognition of opportunities for and challenges to building bridges among academics, policy makers, practitioners, and adoptive families in order to increase the wellbeing of families. We suggest that engagement and collaboration with family associations might offer the best chance for social anthropological research to have an influence on family public policies and practices in Spain.
Methodology for developing competency standards for dietitians in Australia
Authors: Palermo Claire , Conway Jane , Beck Eleanor J. , Dart Janeane , Capra Sandra , Ash Susan
Published: December 2015

Competency standards document the knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for competent performance. This study develops competency standards for dietitians in order to substantiate an approach to competency standard development. Focus groups explored the current and emerging purpose, role, and function of the profession, which were used to draft competency standards. Consensus was then sought using two rounds of a Delphi survey. Seven focus groups were conducted with 28 participants (15 employers/practitioners, 5 academics, 8 new graduates). Eighty‐two of 110 invited experts participated in round one and 67 experts completed round two. Four major functions of dietitians were identified: being a professional, influencing the health of individuals, groups, communities, and populations through evidence‐based nutrition practice, and working collaboratively in teams. Overall there was a high level of consensus on the standards: 93% achieved agreement by participants in round one and all revised standards achieved consensus on round 2. The methodology provides a framework for other professions wishing to embark on competency standard review or development.