bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In situ protein‐SIP highlights Burkholderiaceae as key players degrading toluene by para ring hydroxylation in a constructed wetland model
Authors: Lünsmann Vanessa , Kappelmeyer Uwe , Benndorf René , Martinez‐Lavanchy Paula M. , Taubert Anja , Adrian Lorenz , Duarte Marcia , Pieper Dietmar H. , von Bergen Martin , Müller Jochen A. , Heipieper Hermann J. , Jehmlich Nico
Published: November 2015

In constructed wetlands, organic pollutants are mainly degraded via microbial processes. Helophytes, plants that are commonly used in these systems, provide oxygen and root exudates to the rhizosphere, stimulating microbial degradation. While the treatment performance of constructed wetlands can be remarkable, a mechanistic understanding of microbial degradation processes in the rhizosphere is still limited. We investigated microbial toluene removal in a constructed wetland model system combining 16S rRNA gene sequencing, metaproteomics and 13C‐toluene in situ protein‐based stable isotope probing (protein‐SIP). The rhizospheric bacterial community was dominated by Burkholderiales and Rhizobiales, each contributing about 20% to total taxon abundance. Protein‐SIP data revealed that the members of Burkholderiaceae, the proteins of which showed about 73% of 13C‐incorporation, were the main degraders of toluene in the planted system, while the members of Comamonadaceae were involved to a lesser extent in degradation (about 64% 13C‐incorporation). Among the Burkholderiaceae, one of the key players of toluene degradation could be assigned to Ralstonia pickettii. We observed that the main pathway of toluene degradation occurred via two subsequent monooxygenations of the aromatic ring. Our study provides a suitable approach to assess the key processes and microbes that are involved in the degradation of organic pollutants in complex rhizospheric ecosystems.
Functional metagenomic selection of ribulose 1, 5‐bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase from uncultivated bacteria
Authors: Varaljay Vanessa A. , Satagopan Sriram , North Justin A. , Witte Brian , Dourado Manuella N. , Anantharaman Karthik , Arbing Mark A. , McCann Shelley Hoeft , Oremland Ronald S. , Banfield Jillian F. , Wrighton Kelly C. , Tabita F. Robert
Published: November 2015

Ribulose 1,5‐bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (RubisCO) is a critical yet severely inefficient enzyme that catalyses the fixation of virtually all of the carbon found on Earth. Here, we report a functional metagenomic selection that recovers physiologically active RubisCO molecules directly from uncultivated and largely unknown members of natural microbial communities. Selection is based on CO2‐dependent growth in a host strain capable of expressing environmental deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), precluding the need for pure cultures or screening of recombinant clones for enzymatic activity. Seventeen functional RubisCO‐encoded sequences were selected using DNA extracted from soil and river autotrophic enrichments, a photosynthetic biofilm and a subsurface groundwater aquifer. Notably, three related form II RubisCOs were recovered which share high sequence similarity with metagenomic scaffolds from uncultivated members of the Gallionellaceae family. One of the Gallionellaceae RubisCOs was purified and shown to possess CO2/O2 specificity typical of form II enzymes. X‐ray crystallography determined that this enzyme is a hexamer, only the second form II multimer ever solved and the first RubisCO structure obtained from an uncultivated bacterium. Functional metagenomic selection leverages natural biological diversity and billions of years of evolution inherent in environmental communities, providing a new window into the discovery of CO2‐fixing enzymes not previously characterized.
From family to relational SCORE‐15: an alternative adult version of a systemic self‐report measure for couples and LGB People
Authors: Teh Yang Yang , Lask Judith , Stratton Peter
Published: November 2015

SCORE‐15 is a self‐report measure developed for systemic approaches to therapy. This article describes a pilot study designed to test the reliability and content validity of the original SCORE‐15 for lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) adults in the UK. Quantitative data analyses conducted with an LGB sample (n = 59) and a non‐LGB sample (n = 57) found sufficient temporal and internal reliability in the SCORE‐15 but with some exceptions for the communication subscale. The content validity of SCORE‐15 was checked via group discussions with two clinical professionals groups (n = 7) and a gay/bisexual men group (n = 8). An alternative adult version of SCORE‐15 named the relational SCORE‐15 or the R‐SCORE‐15 was constructed and its content validity was checked by the original clinical professionals and an additional professional group (n = 8). The R‐SCORE‐15 has content validity for clinical use with couples and LGB people in relationship therapy.

Practitioner points

SCORE‐15 is a systemic self‐report measure reliable for routine clinical use with LGB people and couples in the UK to measure relational changes.

The use of the term family affects the content validity of SCORE‐15 for LGB people and couples who may not regard family as their primary relationships.

R‐SCORE‐15 is a recommended alternative to SCORE‐15 for couples, LGB people and those who may not define significant relationships via biology or marital ties.
Success and Failure in Environment Policy: The Role of Policy Officials
Authors: Mackie Kathleen
Published: November 2015

This paper reports on interviews conducted between 2010 and 2013 with senior officials involved in Australian federal environmental policies over the past 30 years. It examines whether they have a prior sense of whether an environment policy is likely to succeed and their experience of the key factors driving environment policy success. Most interviewees claimed a strong prior sense of policy outcomes, but their expression of the key factors indicating success (consultation, clear objectives, a clear mandate, and a strong evidence base) varies from the usual emphases found in the public policy literature. The research illuminates the ways in which the policy officials at times exert a greater role than that suggested by the Westminster conventions or the policy theory literature. Not emphasised in the literature, yet pivotal for success in the vexed space of environmental policy, was the self‐directed yet at times skilful policy ‘agency’ exhibited by officials.
Underrepresentation of active histone modification marks in evolutionarily young genes
Authors: Yu Daqi , Shi Wenwen , Zhang Yong E.
Published: November 2015

It is known that evolutionarily new genes can rapidly evolve essential roles in fundamental biological processes. Nevertheless, the underlying molecular mechanism of how they acquire their novel transcriptional pattern is less characterized except for the role of cis‐regulatory evolution. Epigenetic modification offers an alternative possibility. Here, we examined how histone modifications have changed among different gene age groups in Drosophila melanogaster by integrative analyses of an updated new gene dataset and published epigenomic data. We found a robust pattern across various datasets where both the coverage and intensity of active histone modifications, histone 3 lysine 4 trimethylation and lysine 36 trimethylation, increased with evolutionary age. Such a temporal correlation is negative and much weaker for the repressive histone mark, lysine 9 trimethylation, which is expected given its major association with heterochromatin. By further comparison with neighboring old genes, the depletion of active marks of new genes could be only partially explained by the local epigenetic context. All these data are consistent with the observation that older genes bear relatively higher expression levels and suggest that the evolution of histone modifications could be implicated in transcriptional evolution after gene birth.
Molecular cloning and expression analysis of a myosin light chain 1 (MLC‐1) gene from Indian meal moth Plodia interpunctella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)
Authors: Liu Qiu‐Ning , Bian Dan‐Dan , Zhou Chun‐Lin , Tang Bo‐Ping
Published: November 2015

Myosin light chain 1 (MLC‐1) protein acts in the organization, dynamics and transport processes associated with the cytoskeleton. In this work, an MLC‐1 gene was cloned and characterized from the Indian meal moth, Plodia interpunctella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae). The isolated PiMLC‐1 cDNA is 913 bp, including a 5′‐untranslated region (UTR) of 79 bp, 3′‐UTR of 381 bp and an open reading frame (ORF) of 453 bp encoding a polypeptide of 150 amino acids, which contains two calcium binding domains (EF‐hands). The deduced PiMLC‐1 protein sequence has 39–94% comparison with other individuals. The qPCR analysis revealed that PiMLC‐1 was expressed in the four developmental stages (egg, larva, pupa and adult) and in all tissues tested, suggesting that it plays an important role in development of P. interpunctella. Based on the MLC‐1 amino acids, phylogenetic analysis showed a similar topology with the traditional classification, suggesting the potential value of the MLC‐1 protein in phylogenetic inference.
Randomised controlled trial of spinal anaesthesia with bupivacaine or 2‐chloroprocaine during caesarean section
Authors: Maes S. , Laubach M. , Poelaert J.
Published: November 2015

Background

Neuraxial anaesthesia is the desired method for Caesarean section. Bupivacaine is a well‐known local anaesthetic. It has a long duration of action and can cause unpredictable levels of anaesthesia with subsequent prolonged discharge time. 2‐Chloroprocaine has a rapid onset of action, producing an excellent sensory and motor block and has a rapid hydrolysis in the bloodstream by pseudocholinesterase. We compared bupivacaine and 2‐chloroprocaine for spinal anaesthesia during Caesarean section. The primary endpoint was the earliest reversal sign of the motor block.

Methods

Sixty ASAI/II patients, planned for elective singleton Caesarean section, were equally randomised to three groups. All patients received a combined spinal–epidural anaesthesia. The first group received 2‐chloroprocaine (40 mg) without sufentanil, the second group received 2‐chloroprocaine (40 mg) with sufentanil (1 μg) and the third group received hyperbaric bupivacaine (7.5 mg) with sufentanil (1 μg) as a spinal anaesthetic. Motor and sensory blockade were assessed at specific time points.

Results

There was no difference between the three groups regarding the time to regression of the motor block. However, at 5 min post spinal injection, the level of sensory block was higher for both groups with 2‐chloroprocaine, in comparison with the bupivacaine group.

Conclusion

2‐Chloroprocaine can be used for low risk Caesarean section in healthy parturients. There is no difference in time to motor block resolution compared to bupivacaine.

Motor recovery seems more predictable for 2‐chloroprocaine and may be beneficial for the breastfeeding initiation.
Transcriptomic landscape for lymphocyte count variation in poly I:C‐induced porcine peripheral blood
Authors: Wang H. , Hou Y. , Guo J. , Chen H. , Liu X. , Wu Z. , Zhao S. , Zhu M.
Published: November 2015

Lymphocyte count is an important phenotypic metric that has been reported to be related to the individual antiviral capacity of pigs and other mammals. To date, aside from information regarding several genes and pathways, little is known about the mechanism by which gene expression affects variation in lymphocyte count. In this work, we investigated the lymphocyte count variation after poly I:C stimulation and compared the transcriptomes of pigs with large and small differences of lymphocyte counts before and after poly I:C stimulation. Pigs with large and small differences of lymphocyte counts were designated as extreme response (ER) and moderate response (MR) pigs respectively. Lymphocyte counts in all animals were observed to decline after poly I:C stimulation. Transcriptomic analysis identified 1121 transcripts (981 differentially expressed genes) in MR pigs and 1045 transcripts (904 differentially expressed genes) in ER pigs. We found that the majority of the differentially expressed genes were involved in both innate and adaptive immune responses. However, the innate immune response of ER pigs was more rapid than that of MR pigs. Results indicated that the activation of signaling pathways associated with cell death, cytotoxicity and apoptosis may contribute to the poly I:C‐induced decrease of lymphocyte counts in the periphery. Moreover, the differential expression patterns of chemokines and FAS either totally or partially provided an interpretation for the different degrees of decrease in the lymphocyte counts between MR and ER pigs. Overall, our study will provide further understanding of the molecular basis for the antiviral capacity of pigs and other mammals.
Future of family support: Projected living arrangements and income sources of older people in Hong Kong up to 2030
Authors: Ng Kok‐Hoe
Published: November 2015

Aim

The study aims to project future trends in living arrangements and access to children's cash contributions and market income sources among older people in Hong Kong.

Method

A cell‐based model was constructed by combining available population projections, labour force projections, an extrapolation of the historical trend in living arrangements based on national survey datasets and a regression model on income sources.

Results

Under certain assumptions, the proportion of older people living with their children may decline from 59 to 48% during 2006–2030. Although access to market income sources may improve slightly, up to 20% of older people may have no access to either children's financial support or market income sources, and will not live with their children by 2030.

Conclusion

Family support is expected to contract in the next two decades. Public pensions should be expanded to protect financially vulnerable older people.
Psychosocial factors significantly predict driving self‐regulation in Australian older adults
Authors: Wong Ides Y. , Smith Simon S. , Sullivan Karen A.
Published: November 2015

Aims

This study aimed to investigate: (i) whether attitudes and beliefs about driving predict older adults’ driving self‐regulation, and how much variance in self‐regulation can be explained by these factors; and (ii) if driving confidence is controlled, whether attitudes and beliefs remain significant independent predictors of driving self‐regulation.

Method

The present study examined the psychosocial factors that underlie driving self‐regulation in 277 older adults within Australia. Participants completed standardised questionnaires about their driving, attitudes, belief and use of driving self‐regulation.

Results

Driving confidence, affective and instrumental attitude, and perceived behavioural control were all significant predictors of driving self‐regulation. The combination of these factors accounted for 56% of the variance in driving self‐regulation.

Conclusion

Driving self‐regulation is a complex behaviour influenced by a wide range of psychosocial factors. Improved understanding of these factors could inform strategies to improve older driver safety and influence the advice that people receive.
Cold subcutaneous abscesses as the first manifestation of disseminated coccidioidomycosis in an immunocompromised host
Authors: Garza‐Chapa Juana Irma , Martínez‐Cabriales Sylvia Aide , Ocampo‐Garza Jorge , Gómez‐Flores Minerva , Ocampo‐Candiani Jorge , Welsh Oliverio
Published: November 2015

Coccidioidomycosis is an endemic fungal infection in the southwestern USA and northern Mexico. It is caused by Coccidioides immitis and C. posadasii. This infection occurs due to the inhalation of airborne arthroconidia, causing a mild pulmonary infection, but most cases are asymptomatic. Disseminated coccidioidomycosis (DC) is a rare entity occurring in less than 1% of all cases, usually in immunocompromised patients, and it carries high risks of morbidity and mortality. The skin is one of the most frequently affected organs and in some cases cutaneous lesions may be the first or only sign of infection. A wide spectrum of clinical lesions may develop, including cold abscess. In immunocompromised hosts, DC represents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Treatment is based on antifungal drugs, such as amphotericin B and azoles, administered for long periods of time and under close follow up to monitor the treatment response and to detect relapse. In the following case report, we present a 35‐year‐old male patient with systemic lupus erythematosus under immunosuppressive therapy who presented with cold subcutaneous abscesses as the first sign of DC.
Associations of outdoor play and screen time with nocturnal sleep duration and pattern among young children
Authors: Xu Huilan , Wen Li Ming , Hardy Louise L. , Rissel Chris
Published: November 2015

Aim

Sleep duration and pattern have important implications for children's health. This study aims to investigate nocturnal sleep duration, sleep pattern and their relationships with outdoor play and screen time among children aged 2 to five years.

Methods

The study used data from the Healthy Beginnings Trial undertaken in Sydney, Australia. Data on children's sleep, outdoor playtime and screen time were reported by mothers via face‐to‐face interviews when children were 2, 3.5 and five years old. Both cross‐sectional and longitudinal analyses were conducted.

Results

At age 2, 3.5 and five years, 497, 415 and 369 mother–child dyads participated. Significantly, there was an overall increase in children's nocturnal sleep duration, sleep latency and an earlier bedtime, and there was a decrease in the proportion of children who woke at night over time. Each additional hour of screen time was associated with three‐minute (95% CI 0.6–5) shorter sleep, 1.6‐minute (95% CI 0.59–2.63) longer sleep latency, four‐minute (95% CI 1.8–6.0) later bedtime and less likely sleeping ≥10 hours per night with adjusted odds ratio 0.88 (95% CI 0.77–1.00), after controlling for mothers' demographics.

Conclusion

Among young children, screen time and outdoor playtime were associated with sleep duration and pattern. Reducing screen time and increasing outdoor playtime might help improving children's sleep.
Introduction: understanding mechanisms of the actions of rifaximin in selected gastrointestinal diseases
Authors: DuPont H. L.
Published: November 2015

Background

Historically, the beneficial effects of the nonsystemic oral agent rifaximin on various gastrointestinal (GI) disorders have been attributed to direct antibiotic activity on gut microbiota. However, data are accumulating to suggest that other nonantibacterial effects may be involved in rifaximin efficacy.

Aim

To explore the mechanisms of action of rifaximin that may underlie its clinical benefits in travellers’ diarrhoea, hepatic encephalopathy and other cirrhosis complications, inflammatory bowel diseases, and irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhoea.

Methods

Gastroenterology experts convened a round‐table discussion to address clinical and pre‐clinical rifaximin data pertaining to select GI diseases and the potential mechanisms of action that underlie rifaximin efficacy profiles. As preparation, the literature was searched for publications related to rifaximin, its mechanisms of action, and its efficacy in travellers’ diarrhoea, hepatic encephalopathy and other cirrhosis‐related complications, inflammatory bowel diseases and irritable bowel syndrome.

Results

Gut microbiota dysbiosis and proinflammatory activities are thought to significantly contribute to disease pathophysiology of these conditions. Rifaximin may resolve gut microbiota dysbiosis by promoting GI colonisation of beneficial bacterial species without drastic alterations in overall diversity. Rifaximin‐induced changes in the production and metabolism of bacteria‐produced agents (e.g. deoxycholic acid, lipopolysaccharides) also may help preserve normal gut microbiota. Rifaximin may suppress local and systemic inflammatory processes by preserving epithelial function (e.g. limiting bacterial translocation), modulating bacterial virulence and reducing proinflammatory cytokine production.

Conclusion

The commonality of pathological mechanisms underlying multiple GI diseases and the ability of rifaximin to modulate the gut microenvironment (i.e. gut microenvironment modulator) may explain its diverse efficacy profile.
Therapeutic potential of mTOR inhibitors for targeting cancer stem cells
Authors: Francipane Maria Giovanna , Lagasse Eric
Published: November 2015

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway is aberrantly activated in many cancer types. As the intricate network of regulatory mechanisms controlling mTOR activity is uncovered, more refined drugs are designed and tested in clinical trials. While first generation mTOR inhibitors have failed to show clinical efficacy due partly to the feedback relief of oncogenetic circuits, newly developed inhibitors show greater promise as anti‐cancer agents. An effective drug must defeat the cancer stem cells (CSCs) while sparing the normal stem cells. Due to its opposing role on normal and malignant stem cells, mTOR lends itself very well as a therapeutic target. Indeed, a preferential inhibitory effect on CSCs has already been shown for some mTOR inhibitors. These results provide a compelling rationale for the clinical development of mTOR‐targeted therapies.
Mediation Analysis for Survival Data Using Semiparametric Probit Models
Authors: Huang Yen-Tsung , Cai Tianxi
Published: November 2015

Causal mediation modeling has become a popular approach for studying the effect of an exposure on an outcome through mediators. Currently, the literature on mediation analyses with survival outcomes largely focused on settings with a single mediator and quantified the mediation effects on the hazard, log hazard and log survival time (Lange and Hansen 2011; VanderWeele 2011). In this article, we propose a multi-mediator model for survival data by employing a flexible semiparametric probit model. We characterize path-specific effects (PSEs) of the exposure on the outcome mediated through specific mediators. We derive closed form expressions for PSEs on a transformed survival time and the survival probabilities. Statistical inference on the PSEs is developed using a nonparametric maximum likelihood estimator under the semiparametric probit model and the functional Delta method. Results from simulation studies suggest that our proposed methods perform well in finite sample. We illustrate the utility of our method in a genomic study of glioblastoma multiforme survival.
Large‐scale margin collapse during Messinian early sea‐level drawdown: theSWValencia trough,NWMediterranean
Authors: Cameselle Alejandra L. , Urgeles Roger
Published: November 2015

In this study, detailed mapping of the ‘Messinian markers’ and examination of their geometrical relationships in theSWValencia trough (Western Mediterranean) have revealed the style and depositional processes associated with emersion of continental margins during the Messinian Salinity Crisis (MSC). Based on multichannel seismic profiles and well data, this article evidences the existence of two Messinian depositional units in intermediate basins (Complex Unit and Upper Unit) and four main Messinian erosional surfaces (Margin Erosion Surface, Bottom Surface, Top (Erosion) Surface and Intermediate Surface). Results show that (1) initial rapid sea‐level drawdown and exposure of the shelf and upper slope of the Valencia margin induced large‐scale destabilization of the continental slope and deposition of large detrital bodies at the base‐of‐slope in the form of major mass‐transport deposits (MTD); (2) as sea level continued to drop, the development of the Margin Erosion Surface attained full development on the margins and eroded the clastic units (MTDs) deposited during initial drawdown. At the same time, a submarine drainage network formed in the deepwater Valencia trough; (3) persistent lowstand and restrictive conditions in the area resulted in deposition of the evaporites that form the Upper Unit in theSWValencia trough.
Overexpression of natural killer group 2 member D ligands predicts favorable prognosis in cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Tsukagoshi Mariko , Wada Satoshi , Yokobori Takehiko , Altan Bolag , Ishii Norihiro , Watanabe Akira , Kubo Norio , Saito Fumiyoshi , Araki Kenichiro , Suzuki Hideki , Hosouchi Yasuo , Kuwano Hiroyuki
Published: November 2015

The natural killer group 2 member D (NKG2D) receptor and its ligands are important mediators of immune responses to tumors. NKG2D ligands are overexpressed in several malignant tumor types; however, the prognostic value of these ligands is unclear. Here, we aimed to elucidate the role of NKG2D ligands in extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (EHCC). We therefore investigated the expression of the NKG2D receptor and its ligands MHC class I chain‐related proteins A and B (MICA/B), unique long 16 binding protein (ULBP) 1, and ULBP2/5/6 in resected specimens from 82 patients with EHCC. All NKG2D ligands were highly expressed in EHCC. High expression of MICA/B or ULBP2/5/6 correlated with overall and disease‐free survival. In contrast, high expression of ULBP1 was significantly associated with improved overall survival, but not disease‐free survival. Concurrent high expression of multiple NKG2D ligands revealed significantly better overall and disease‐free survival than that observed with the overexpression of any one NKG2D ligand. Co‐expression of multiple NKG2D ligands was an independent prognostic indicator of improved survival. Furthermore, co‐overexpression of multiple NKG2D ligands was significantly correlated with high expression of the NKG2D receptor. Inhibiting interactions between multiple NKG2D ligands and the NKG2D receptor might be a promising approach for controlling cancer progression and improving patient prognosis in EHCC.
Antimüllerian hormone, antral follicle count and ovarian volume predict menstrual cycle length in healthy women
Authors: Zhu Ruoyan , Lee Bao Hui , Huang Zhongwei , Indran Inthrani Raja , Li Jun , Shen Liang , Kramer Michael S. , Yong Eu‐Leong
Published: November 2015

Objective

Although menstrual cycle length is one of the main concerns of women and may have important health consequences, little is known about its predictors. The aim of this study was to identify predictors of menstrual cycle length variability in healthy women.

Design

Prospective cross‐sectional study.

Patients

Two hundred healthy women aged 21–45.

Measurements

A questionnaire was administered to determine lifestyle factors. Ovarian parameters, metabolic parameters, pituitary hormones, sex steroids and antimüllerian hormone (AMH) were measured.

Results

Women with long (≥35 days) and normal (25–34 days) menstrual cycles had >5‐fold and >2‐fold higher serumAMHlevels, respectively, compared to those with short cycles (<25 days). Menstrual cycle length was associated with age but not lifestyle factors. Only one factor group (AMH, antral follicle count [AFC], ovarian volume, testosterone andLH) was significantly associated with menstrual cycle length. Within this factor group, only the ovarian parameters (AMH,AFC, ovarian volume) predicted menstrual cycle length. EachSDincrease inAMH(32·9 pmol/l) and ovarian volume (2·29 cm3) was associated with 2·80‐fold (95%CI: 1·67–4·69) and 1·62‐fold (95%CI: 1·08–2·43) increased risks, respectively, for longer menstrual cycles.

Conclusions

AMH,AFCand ovarian volume are positively associated with menstrual cycle length in healthy women. Our identification ofAMHas an independent predictor of menstrual cycle length puts forth a new notion of utilizing menstrual cycle length to predict possibleAMH‐dependent/‐associated outcomes. In addition, this novel relationship may facilitate the interpretation ofAMHlevels and its clinico‐pathological significance across different centres.
Static craniofacial measurements and dynamic airway collapse patterns associated with severe obstructive sleep apnoea: a sleep MRI study
Authors: Liu Stanley Yung‐Chuan , Huon Leh‐Kiong , Lo Men‐Tzung , Chang Yi‐Chung , Capasso Robson , Chen Yunn‐Jy , Shih Tiffany Ting‐Fang , Wang Pa‐Chun
Published: November 2015

Objectives

Using sleep MRI, we aimed to identify static craniofacial measurements and dynamic upper airway collapse patterns associated with severe obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) during natural sleep in age and BMI‐matched patients.

Design

Nested case–control study.

Setting

Sleep MRI images (3.0 Tesla scanner) and synchronised acoustic recording were used to observe patterns of dynamic airway collapse in subjects with mild and severe OSA. Midsagittal images were also used for static craniofacial measurements.

Participants

Fifteen male subjects with severe OSA (mean AHI 70.3 ± 23 events/h) were matched by age and BMI to 15 subjects with mild OSA (mean AHI 7.8 ± 1.4 events/h). Subjects were selected from a consecutive sleep MRI study cohort.

Main outcome measures

Static craniofacial measurements selected a priori included measurements that represent maxillomandibular relationships and airway morphology. Axial, sagittal and coronal views of the airway were rated for dynamic collapse at retropalatal, retroglossal and lateral pharyngeal wall regions by blinded reviewers. Bivariate analysis was used to correlate measures associated with severity of OSA using AHI. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.01.

Results

Lateral pharyngeal wall collapse from dynamic sleep MRI (β = 51.8, P < 0.001) and upper airway length from static MRI images (β = 27.2, P < 0.001) positively correlated with severity of OSA.

Conclusions

Lateral pharyngeal wall collapse and upper airway length are significantly associated with severe OSA based on sleep MRI. Assessment of these markers can be readily translated to routine clinical practice, and their identification may direct targeted surgical treatment.
The Media and Firm Reputation Roles in Corporate Governance Improvements: Lessons from European Dual Class Share Unifications
Authors: Lauterbach Beni , Pajuste Anete
Published: November 2015

Manuscript Type

Empirical

Research Questions/Issues

Do media pressure and firm reputational concerns propel corporate governance improvements? Specifically, can they encourage unifications of dual class shares into a single “one share one vote” class?

Research Findings/Insights

Media criticism increases the likelihood of voluntary dual class share unifications. Firms more sensitive to public image are more likely to unify their dual class shares.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

Media plays an important role in corporate governance promotion. Firm reputation is a valuable asset, sensitive to public opinion and media criticism. Some real firm decisions can be influenced by firm image and reputation considerations.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

Firm image, reputation, and public relations activity are valuable. Media is a powerful and flexible tool that in some cases can substitute regulation in effectively restraining firms and their controlling shareholders.
Blue core–shell nanospheres prepared by dyeing poly(styrene‐co‐methacrylic acid) dispersions
Authors: Fang Kuanjun , Xia Xiaojie , Cai Yuqing , Hao Longyun , Zhang Jianbo , Zhao Yunguo
Published: November 2015

Blue poly(styrene‐co‐methacrylic acid) nanospheres were prepared by dyeing polymer dispersions with CI Disperse Blue 56. The coloured nanospheres had a clear shell with a thickness of 32.5 nm. The average diameter of the nanospheres increased from 288 to 353 nm, and the glass transition temperature was raised from 109.6 to 117.9 °C after coloration. Ultraviolet‐visible absorption spectra, transmission electron microscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry show that the amino and/or hydroxyl groups of the disperse dyes formed hydrogen bonds with the carboxyl groups on the surfaces of the nanospheres during the coloration process, resulting in increased particle sizes and shell layers. The dye content increased almost linearly with increasing dye concentrations or dyeing temperatures within a certain range. By increasing the pH of the dyeing bath from 4 to 5, the dye content increased sharply from 0.68 to 1.49% because of the ionisation of the carboxyl groups of the macromolecules.
Isolation‐driven functional assembly of plant communities on islands
Authors: Negoita Luka , Fridley Jason D. , Lomolino Mark V. , Mittelhauser Glen , Craine Joseph M. , Weiher Evan
Published: November 2015

The physical and biotic environment is often considered the primary driver of functional variation in plant communities. Here, we examine the hypothesis that spatial isolation may also be an important driver of functional variation in plant communities where disturbance and dispersal limitation may prevent species from occupying all suitable habitats. To test this hypothesis, we surveyed the vascular plant composition of 30 islands in the Gulf of Maine, USA, and used available functional trait and growth form data to quantify the functional composition of these islands. We categorized species based on dispersal mode and used a landscape metric of isolation to assess the potential role of dispersal limitation as a mechanism of isolation‐driven assembly. We tested for island and species level effects on functional composition using a hierarchical Bayesian framework to better assess the causal link between isolation and functional variation. Growth form composition and the community mean value of functional traits related to growth rate, stress tolerance, and nutrient use varied significantly with island isolation. Functional traits and growth forms were significantly associated with dispersal mode, and spatial isolation was the strongest driver of primary trait variation, while island properties associated with environmental drivers in our system were not strong predictors of trait variation. Despite the species‐level association of dispersal mode and functional traits, dispersal mode only accounted for a small proportion of the overall isolation effect on community‐level trait variation. Our study suggests that spatial isolation can be a key driver of functional assembly in plant communities on islands, though the role of particular dispersal processes remains unclear.
Altered self‐identity and autobiographical memory in epilepsy
Authors: Allebone James , Rayner Genevieve , Siveges Benjamin , Wilson Sarah J.
Published: November 2015

Objective

Research suggests that individuals with chronic epilepsy display differences in their self‐identity. The mechanisms by which self‐identity is altered, however, are not well understood. Neural networks supporting autobiographical memory retrieval in the mesial temporal (MT) lobe are thought to be fundamental to self‐identity processes. Thus, we examined differences in self‐identity and autobiographical memory in patients with either MT or non–mesial temporal (NMT) foci with early or late age of habitual seizure onset.

Methods

Participants included 102 adults: 51 healthy individuals and 51 patients with drug‐resistant focal seizures (19 MT, 32 NMT). We used the Ego Identity Process Questionnaire to profile the identity development of participants, and examined how this related to memory function assessed using the Autobiographical Memory Test.

Results

Patients and controls had strikingly different self‐identity profiles, with early onset MT patients showing the least identity development compared to controls and other patient groups. In contrast, late‐onset NMT patients showed the highest level of identity development of the patient groups and closely resembled healthy controls (p < 0.05 for all comparisons). For all MT patients, poor autobiographical memory retrieval was correlated with altered self‐identity (p < 0.001). No associations between autobiographical memory and self‐identity were evident in the NMT group.

Significance

Self‐identity in epilepsy may be modulated by the extent to which seizure foci impinge on the autobiographical memory network and the timing of seizure onset. Early disruption to MT regions of the autobiographical memory network may constitute a neurocognitive mechanism by which self‐identity is altered in chronic focal epilepsy.
Mitochondria and the hallmarks of cancer
Authors: Giampazolias Evangelos , Tait Stephen W.G.
Published: November 2015

Mitochondria have traditionally been viewed as the powerhouse of the cell, where they serve, amongst other functions, as a major source of ATP generation. More recently, mitochondria have also been shown to have active roles in a variety of other processes, including apoptotic cell death and inflammation. Here we review the various ways in which mitochondrial functions affect cancer. Although there are many diverse types of cancer, hallmarks have been defined that are applicable to most cancer types. We provide an overview of how mitochondrial functions affect some of these hallmarks, which include evasion of cell death, de‐regulated bioenergetics, genome instability, tumour‐promoting inflammation and metastasis. In addition to discussing the underlying mitochondrial roles in each of these processes, we also highlight the considerable potential of targeting mitochondrial functions to improve cancer treatment.
Can carbon emissions from tropical deforestation drop by 50% in 5 years?
Authors: Zarin Daniel J. , Harris Nancy L. , Baccini Alessandro , Aksenov Dmitry , Hansen Matthew C. , Azevedo‐Ramos Claudia , Azevedo Tasso , Margono Belinda A. , Alencar Ane C. , Gabris Chris , Allegretti Adrienne , Potapov Peter , Farina Mary , Walker Wayne S. , Shevade Varada S. , Loboda Tatiana V. , Turubanova Svetlana , Tyukavina Alexandra
Published: November 2015

Halving carbon emissions from tropical deforestation by 2020 could help bring the international community closer to the agreed goal of <2 degree increase in global average temperature change and is consistent with a target set last year by the governments, corporations, indigenous peoples' organizations and non‐governmental organizations that signed the New York Declaration on Forests (NYDF). We assemble and refine a robust dataset to establish a 2001–2013 benchmark for average annual carbon emissions from gross tropical deforestation at 2.270 Gt CO2 yr−1. Brazil did not sign the NYDF, yet from 2001 to 2013, Brazil ranks first for both carbon emissions from gross tropical deforestation and reductions in those emissions – its share of the total declined from a peak of 69% in 2003 to a low of 20% in 2012. Indonesia, an NYDF signatory, is the second highest emitter, peaking in 2012 at 0.362 Gt CO2 yr−1 before declining to 0.205 Gt CO2 yr−1 in 2013. The other 14 NYDF tropical country signatories were responsible for a combined average of 0.317 Gt CO2 yr−1, while the other 86 tropical country non‐signatories were responsible for a combined average of 0.688 Gt CO2 yr−1. We outline two scenarios for achieving the 50% emission reduction target by 2020, both emphasizing the critical role of Brazil and the need to reverse the trends of increasing carbon emissions from gross tropical deforestation in many other tropical countries that, from 2001 to 2013, have largely offset Brazil's reductions. Achieving the target will therefore be challenging, even though it is in the self‐interest of the international community. Conserving rather than cutting down tropical forests requires shifting economic development away from a dependence on natural resource depletion toward recognition of the dependence of human societies on the natural capital that tropical forests represent and the goods and services they provide.
Demographics and adult activity of Hemiphlebia mirabilis: a short‐lived species with a huge population size (Odonata: Hemiphlebiidae)
Authors: Cordero‐Rivera Adolfo
Published: November 2015

Rare species are expected to be more susceptible to extinction, particularly if rarity can be used to describe several characteristics for a particular species. Hemiphlebia mirabilis, an endemic damselfly known from a few sites in the South of Australia and Tasmania, has been considered at risk of imminent global extinction, given its small population size, its localised distribution, and the fact that it is a ‘living fossil’, described as the oldest extant damselfly.

One population found in a protected wetland in Victoria, was studied by behavioural observations of marked animals, during Nov‐Dec 2013. Results indicate that H. mirabilis is a short‐lived species, with a mature lifespan of about 1 week in males and 4 days in females.

Population size estimates and field observations indicate that this population is huge, likely over one million individuals per generation. Adults show little mobility and fly for short distances, being inactive most of the time, particularly at temperatures below 17 °C or over 35 °C.

The low mobility and cryptic coloration, and the inaccessibility of its preferred habitat might explain why huge populations like the one studied here have remained unnoticed until recently. Nevertheless, both sexes show frequent abdominal flicking displays, and fast rotations over the perching support, both behaviours apparently unique to this species, making them highly conspicuous to human observers. It is concluded that H. mirabilis should not be regarded as critically endangered.
Senior Smiles: preliminary results for a new model of oral health care utilizing the dental hygienist in residential aged care facilities
Authors: Wallace JP , Mohammadi J , Wallace LG , Taylor JA
Published: November 2015

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine whether a qualified dental hygienist could improve oral health outcomes for residents living in residential aged care facilities on the Central Coast of New South Wales, Australia.

Methods

A qualified dental hygienist undertook a 24‐week oral hygiene intervention in five residential aged care facilities to test the Senior Smiles, oral health model of care. The facilities were invited to take part in the research, which was funded by a grant from NSW Medicare Local, Erina. Residents were asked to consent to having oral health risk assessments, oral healthcare plans and to receiving referrals for treatment where needed. Pre‐ and post‐intervention plaque scores were recorded for residents and P values calculated using a paired t‐test. In addition, the number of residents examined, treated and referred for more complex dental care was recorded.

Results

The statistical analysis program, SPSS, was used to conduct a paired t‐test to compare pre‐ and post‐intervention plaque scores on residents from the 5 RACFs. A statistically significant result of P < 0.0001 showed the intervention of the dental hygienist was effective in reducing plaque scores in residents across the 5 RACFs.

Conclusion

The Senior Smiles model of care provided residents with preventive oral hygiene care, referral pathways for complex dental treatment needs and established a formal management programme for ongoing oral health care within the RACFs. The Senior Smiles model of care is successful and transportable.
Bioactivity of MTA Plus, Biodentine and an experimental calcium silicate‐based cement on human osteoblast‐like cells
Authors: Gomes‐Cornélio A. L. , Rodrigues E. M. , Salles L. P. , Mestieri L. B. , Faria G. , Guerreiro‐Tanomaru J. M. , Tanomaru‐Filho M.
Published: November 2015

Aim

To compare the bioactivity of Biodentine (BIO, Septodont), MTA Plus (MTA P, Avalon) and calcium silicate experimental cement (CSC) with resin (CSCR) associated with zirconium (CSCR ZrO2) or niobium (CSCR Nb2O5) oxide as radiopacifiers.

Methodology

According to the relevance of osteoblastic cell response for mineralized tissue repair, human osteoblastic cells (Saos‐2) were exposed to test materials and assessed for viability (MTT), cell proliferation, gene expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) osteogenic marker by real‐time PCR (RT‐qPCR), ALP activity assay and alizarin red staining (ARS) to detect mineralization nodule deposition in osteogenic medium. Unexposed cells acted as the control group (C). Statistical analysis was carried out using ANOVA and the Bonferroni post‐test (P < 0.05).

Results

All tested cements showed dose‐dependent responses in cell viability (MTT). Exposed cells revealed good viability (80–130% compared to the control group) in the highest dilutions of all types of cement. MTA P, BIO and CSCR ZrO2 significantly increased the velocity of cell proliferation after three days of cell exposure in the wound‐healing assay (P < 0.05), which corroborated MTT data. On day 3, the ALP transcript level increased, especially to CSCR Nb2O5 (P < 0.05). All cements exhibited suitable ALP enzyme activity, highlighting the 7‐day period of cell exposure. ARS, CSCR Nb2O5, revealed a significant potential to induce mineralization in vitro.

Conclusions

All materials had suitable biocompatibility and bioactivity. The MTA P, BIO and CSCR ZrO2 groups had the highest viability rates and velocity of proliferation whilst the CSCR Nb2O5 group produced more mineralized nodules.
On Michael Oakeshott: Scepticism and rationalism in politics
Authors: Gamble Andrew
Published: November 2015

Although he is often included in the Pantheon of Conservative thinkers, Oakeshott has much to teach the modern left, says Andrew Gamble. He examines Oakeshott's politics of scepticism, whereby sustainable and well‐adapted state institutions arise from experimentation and contingency rather than any grand political project.
Living history: Reading Edmund Burke on representation
Authors: Bourke Richard
Published: November 2015

250 years on, Richard Bourke traces the development of Edmund Burke's sophisticated conception of representation, one which stands in stark contrast to simplistic notions of ‘being like us’ which permeate our modern debates about political authority and democratic legitimacy.
The prairie populist: How Stephen Harper transformed Canada
Authors: Chwalisz Claudia
Published: November 2015

Sounding a note of warning for Europe's mainstream political parties, Claudia Chwalisz traces the rise of Stephen Harper and Canada's populist right‐wing Reform party, which she argues was able to capitalise on a public disenchantment with traditional parties that today is being felt in many European democracies.
Information Asymmetry and Corporate Cash Holdings
Authors: Chung Kee H. , Kim Jang‐Chul , Kim Young Sang , Zhang Hao
Published: November 2015

This study analyzes the effect of information asymmetry on corporate cash holdings. Using various measures of information asymmetry, this study shows that companies that operate in environments with higher information asymmetry have smaller cash holdings. This study continues to find a negative relationship between information asymmetry and corporate cash holdings from a battery of sensitivity analyses, including the tests using different regression methods and the difference‐in‐difference tests employing brokerage‐firm merger and closure events. On the whole, the results support the monitoring cost hypothesis of cash holdings over the investment opportunities hypothesis.
Interventricular Septum and Posterior Wall Thickness Are Associated With Higher Systolic Blood Pressure
Authors: Eliakim‐Raz Noa , Prokupetz Alex , Gordon Barak , Shochat Tzippy , Grossman Alon
Published: November 2015

Elevated blood pressure (BP) is a known factor that affects the structure of the left ventricle. The association between left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and BP in normotensive individuals is poorly understood. All individuals who underwent routine echocardiography and BP measurements as aircrew candidates for the Israeli Air Force in the years 2006 to 2012 were identified. Participants with normal values were included. Associations between echocardiographic characteristics and BP were studied. A total of 2386 participants were included. Mean systolic BP was 125.31±11.18 mm Hg and mean diastolic BP was 68.69±9.02 mm Hg. Interventricular septal (IVS) thickness was positively correlated with systolic BP (P<.001, correlation coefficient 0.121) and significantly inversely correlated with heart rate and hematocrit level (P<.001 for both). Men with evidence of IVS or posterior wall thickening on echocardiography, even within the normal range, may require a closer follow‐up of BP.