bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An essential role for dendritic cells in vernal keratoconjunctivitis: analysis by laser scanning confocal microscopy
Authors: Liu M. , Gao H. , Wang T. , Wang S. , Li S. , Shi W.
Published: December 2013

Background

CD4+ T helper type 2 cells play a central role in the pathogenesis of vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC), and antigen‐presenting cells are required for the cell activation. In this study, we aimed to survey the density, distribution, and morphology of dendritic cells (DCs) in patients with VKC by in vivo confocal microscopy.

Methods

Thirty‐five patients (mean, 12.4 ± 5.3 years) affected by VKC were included. All patients were treated with 0.1% fluorometholone eye drops and 0.5% cyclosporine A eye drops. The density and morphological and distributional characteristics of DCs in each right eye were evaluated by in vivo confocal microscopy before treatment and at 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment. Thirty‐five age‐matched normal subjects (mean, 16.5 ± 1.8 years) were studied as controls.

Results

There was significant difference in age between the VKC group and the control group (F = 18.17, P < 0.05). Compared with normal eyes, increased numbers of DCs were found in patients with VKC, with mean cell densities of 244.09 ± 59.76 cells/mm2 at the bulbar conjunctiva, 574.53 ± 87.34 cells/mm2 at the limbus, and 403.32 ± 106.59 cells/mm2 at the peripheral cornea before treatment. These DCs exhibited a typical dendritic shape. At 3 months after treatment, the DC density at the conjunctiva decreased significantly (P < 0.05), approximating that in the controls. At 3 and 6 months, the DC densities at the limbus and peripheral cornea also decreased significantly (P < 0.05), but were still statistically higher than those in the controls. These DCs, with small dendritic processes or irregular shapes, were observed to gradually locate at the epithelial basal membrane and subbasal nerve plexus.

Conclusions

In vivo confocal microscopy appears to be a valuable tool in evaluating the dynamic change of DCs at the conjunctiva and cornea. DCs play an essential role in VKC and therefore may constitute a target for therapeutic intervention for VKC.
Two novel HSD3B2 missense mutations with diverse residual enzymatic activities for Δ5‐steroids
Authors: Takasawa Kei , Ono Makoto , Hijikata Atsushi , Matsubara Yohei , Katsumata Noriyuki , Takagi Masatoshi , Morio Tomohiro , Ohara Osamu , Kashimada Kenichi , Mizutani Shuki
Published: December 2013

Context

Classical 3β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β‐HSD) deficiency (3β‐HSDD) is caused by loss‐of‐function mutations in the HSD3B2 gene encoding type II 3β‐HSD, which has a key role in steroid biosynthesis, converting Δ5‐steroids to Δ4‐steroids in adrenal glands and gonads.

Patient

A patient (46, XX) was found to have elevated 17‐hydroxyprogesterone (17‐OHP) [203 nmol/l (normal range: 2·94 ± 0·9 nmol/l)] by newborn screening. Endocrinological examination revealed dramatically increased Δ5‐steroids [e.g. 17‐OH pregnenolone: 910 nmol/l (normal range: 12·6 ± 10·5 nmol/l)]. The patient had virilization of external genitalia with labial fusion, suggesting classical 3β‐HSDD.

Methods and Results

Consistent with the endocrinological data, the patient was a compound heterozygote for two novel missense mutations (p.Y190C and p.S218P) that were identified in HSD3B2. Both Y190 and S218 are conserved among mammals. The mutant proteins had severely impaired residual enzymatic activity in vitro, although both mutants retained higher activity for 17‐OH pregnenolone than for the other Δ5‐steroids. In a three‐dimensional model of the enzyme based on the known structures of similar proteins, both mutations were located extremely close to the predicted substrate‐binding pocket. This suggests that the mutations can cause a local conformational change in the substrate‐binding pocket, leading to alterations of the binding affinities for Δ5‐steroids.

Conclusions

We identified two novel missense mutations of HSD3B2 that resulted in unbalanced residual enzymatic activities for Δ5‐steroids. As a potential novel mechanism, we propose that the mutations, which differently affect the activity towards different substrates, the effects of these mutations provide novel insights into the pathophysiology of 3β‐HSDD.
Mutation spectrum and prevalence of BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes in patients with familial and early‐onset breast/ovarian cancer from Tunisia
Authors: Riahi A. , Kharrat M. , Ghourabi M. E. , Khomsi F. , Gamoudi A. , Lariani I. , May A. E. , Rahal K. , Chaabouni‐Bouhamed H.
Published: December 2013

The contribution of BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations to hereditary breast cancer in the Tunisian population has not been accurately estimated. The purpose of our study was to estimate the incidence and spectrum of pathogenic mutations in BRCA1/2 genes in early onset and familial breast/ovarian cancer among Tunisian women. To identify predictive factors for BRCA1/2 mutations, we screened the entire coding sequences and intron/exon boundaries of BRCA1/BRCA2 genes in 48 patients by direct sequencing. Twelve pathogenic mutations were detected (25%); three in BRCA1 (c.211dupA in four families, c.5266dupC in three families and c.1504_1508delTTAAA in one family) and two novel mutations in BRCA2 (c.1313dupT in two families and c.7654dupT in two families). We also identified 23 different polymorphisms and unclassified variants. These results indicate that our population has a spectrum of recurrent BRCA mutations.
Fresh Frozen versus Autogenous Iliac Bone for the Rehabilitation of the Extremely Atrophic Maxilla with Onlay Grafts and Endosseous Implants: Preliminary Results of a Prospective Comparative Study
Authors: Chiapasco Matteo , Di Martino Giuseppe , Anello Tommaso , Zaniboni Marco , Romeo Eugenio
Published: December 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to compare (1) the clinical outcome of the reconstruction of extremely atrophic edentulous maxillae with fresh frozen allogeneic bone (FFB) (group A) and autogenous bone (AB) (group B) iliac blocks; and (2) the peri‐implant bone resorption and the survival rate of implants in the two groups.

Materials and Methods

In a 1‐year period, eight patients were treated with FFB and seven with AB iliac grafts. Five to seven months afterward, 108 implants were inserted (59 in group A and 49 in group B). Four to five months afterward, patients were rehabilitated with implant‐supported prostheses. The mean follow‐up was 24 months.

Results

Prior to implant placement, graft exposure occurred in two patients in group A and in one patient in group B. The mean graft resorption prior to implant placement was 0.78 mm and 0.54 mm in group A and B, respectively. After implant placement, bone graft exposures with partial loss of the graft occurred in six out of eight patients in group A and in none of the group B patients. The survival rate of implants was 90.1% and 100% in group A and B, respectively. The mean values of peri‐implant bone resorption at the end of the follow‐up period were 1.64 mm and 0.92 mm in group A and B, respectively.

Conclusion

Results of this study seem to demonstrate that FFB does not represent a reliable alternative to AB blocks because of the higher rate of bone exposure and partial loss of the grafts, the lower implant survival, and the higher peri‐implant bone resorption in FFB patients.
Technique to Obtain a Predictable Aesthetic Result through Appropriate Placement of the Prosthesis/Soft Tissue Junction in the Edentulous Patient with a Gingival Smile
Authors: Demurashvili Georgy , Davarpanah Keyvan , Szmukler‐Moncler Serge , Davarpanah Mithridade , Raux Didier , Capelle‐Ouadah Nedjoua , Rajzbaum Philippe
Published: December 2013

Background

Treating the edentulous patient with a gingival smile requires securing the prosthesis/soft tissue junction (PSTJ) under the upper lip.

Purpose

To present a simple method that helps achieve a predictable aesthetic result when alveoplasty of the anterior maxilla is needed to place implants apical to the presurgical position of the alveolar ridge.

Materials and Methods

The maximum smile line of the patient is recorded and carved on a thin silicone bite impression as a soft tissue landmark. During the three‐dimensional radiographic examination, the patient wears the silicone guide loaded with radiopaque markers. The NobelClinician® software is then used to bring the hard and soft tissue landmarks together in a single reading. Using the software, a line is drawn 5 mm apical to the smile line; it dictates the position of the crestal ridge to be reached following the alveoplasty. Subsequently, the simulated implant position and the simulated residual bone height following alveoplasty can be simultaneously evaluated on each transverse section.

Results

An alveoplasty of the anterior maxilla was performed as simulated on the software, and implants were placed accordingly. The PSTJ was always under the upper lip, even during maximum smile events. The aesthetic result was, therefore, fully satisfactory.

Conclusion

This simple method permits the placement of the PSTJ under the upper lip with a predictable outcome; it ensures a reliable aesthetic result for the edentulous patient with a gingival smile.
Evaluation of a Novel Cone Beam Computed Tomography Scanner for Bone Density Examinations in Preoperative 3D Reconstructions and Correlation with Primary Implant Stability
Authors: Sennerby Lars , Andersson Peter , Pagliani Luca , Giani Claudio , Moretti Giacomo , Molinari Massimo , Motroni Alessandro
Published: December 2013

Background

Bone density examination (BDE) using preoperative cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) might be used to predict primary implant stability in implant patients.

Purpose

The aim of the study was to validate a novel CBCT scanner in vitro with regard to BDE in preoperative scans and to analyze the in vivo correlation of CBCT scan results with primary implant stability measurements.

Materials and Methods

A CBCT scanner was validated in vitro with regard to spatial uniformity and linearity of CT numbers (Hounsfield units, HU) by using a series of phantoms and plastic and hydroxyapatite specimens of various densities. Forty‐nine patients (27 female and 22 male, mean age 55.6 ± 9.8) were scanned prior to and 1 to 6 months after the placement of 155 dental implants of different lengths and diameters. Mean and peak insertion torque (IT) in Ncm were registered during implant placement. Resonance frequency analysis (RFA) measurements in ISQ units were performed after placement. The second scan was used to export and superimpose the exact positions of bone and implants into the first scan. Virtual probes with the same length as the actual implant were automatically placed at the implant sites, and mean HU values were measured in a 1 mm–wide circular corridor from the tip of the threads and out.

Results

The in vitro validation showed high uniformity and linearity of CT numbers (HU). The clinical study showed significant correlations between bone density and ISQ, mean IT, and peak IT, respectively.

Conclusions

The WhiteFox CBCT scanner measures bone density with high accuracy. There is a correlation between bone density and primary implant stability as assessed with IT and RFA measurements. The findings suggest that BDE may be used as an additional feature in treatment‐planning software to estimate primary stability at predetermined implant sites.
High Plasma Human Atrial Natriuretic Peptide and Reduced Transthoracic Left Atrial Appendage Wall‐Motion Velocity Are Noninvasive Surrogate Markers for Assessing Thrombogenesis in Patients with Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Yoshida Naoyasu , Okamoto Mitsunori , Hirao Hidekazu , Suenari Kazuyoshi , Nanba Kiyomi , Uchida Mio , Yamazato Ryo , Watari Yuichiro , Fukuda Yukihiro , Ueda Hironori
Published: December 2013

Background

The clinical relevance of examining human atrial natriuretic peptide (HANP) or left atrial appendage (LAA) wall‐motion velocity during sinus rhythm in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) patients has not been clearly elucidated.

Methods

The subjects were 38 patients with paroxysmal AF who underwent transesophageal and transthoracic echocardiography during sinus rhythm. The presence of spontaneous echocontrast (SEC) was examined with transesophageal echocardiography and LAA wall‐motion velocity (LAAWV) was measured with transthoracic tissue Doppler echocardiography. Plasma HANP was measured within 3 hours after echocardiography.

Results

Human atrial natriuretic peptide ranged from 12 to 106 pg/mL with an average of 43 ± 24 pg/mL and had a significant correlation with LAAWV (r = −0.57) or LAA flow velocity (r = −0.41). HANP was significantly higher in patients with SEC than in patients without SEC (64 ± 29 vs. 34 ± 15 pg/mL, P = 0.008) and LAAWV was significantly lower in patients with SEC than in patients without SEC (13 ± 5 vs. 20 ± 5 cm/sec, P = 0.002). HANP >44 pg/mL had a sensitivity of 73% and specificity of 89% for diagnosing SEC. SEC was more frequently observed (73%) in patients with HANP >44 pg/mL and/or LAAWV <10 cm/sec as compared with patients (11%) with normal HANP and LAA wall‐motion velocity (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Higher plasma HANP and lower LAA wall‐motion velocity may be noninvasive surrogate markers for assessing left atrial thrombogenesis during sinus rhythm in paroxysmal AF patients.
Time course of dopamine neuron loss and glial response in the 6‐OHDA striatal mouse model of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Stott Simon R.W. , Barker Roger A.
Published: December 2013

The 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA) neurotoxic lesion of the midbrain dopamine (DA) system is one of the most widely used techniques for modelling Parkinson's disease in rodents. The majority of studies using this approach, however, largely limit their analysis to lesioning acutely, and looking at behavioural deficits and the number of surviving tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)‐stained cells in the midbrain. Here we have analysed additional characteristics that occur following intrastriatal delivery of 6‐OHDA, providing better understanding of the neurodegenerative process. Female C57/Black mice were given lesions at 10 weeks old, and killed at several different time points postoperatively (3 and 6 h, 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 days). While the detrimental effect of the toxin on the TH+ fibres in the striatum was immediate, we found that the loss of TH+ dendritic fibres, reduction in cell size and intensity of TH expression, and eventual reduction in the number of TH+ neurons in the substantia nigra was delayed for several days post‐surgery. We also investigated the expression of various transcription factors and proteins expressed by midbrain DA neurons following lesioning, and observed changes in the expression of Aldh1a1 (aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 family, member A1) as the neurodegenerative process evolved. Extracellularly, we looked at microglia and astrocytes in reaction to the 6‐OHDA striatal lesion, and found a delay in their response and proliferation in the substantia nigra. In summary, this work highlights aspects of the neurodegenerative process in the 6‐OHDA mouse model that can be applied to future studies looking at therapeutic interventions.
Inhibition of enamel demineralization by buffering effect of S‐PRG filler‐containing dental sealant
Authors: Kaga Masayuki , Kakuda Shinichi , Ida Yusuke , Toshima Hirokazu , Hashimoto Masanori , Endo Kazuhiko , Sano Hidehiko
Published: December 2013

The buffering capacity and inhibitory effects on enamel demineralization of two commercially available dental sealants were evaluated in this study. The effects of filler particles were also examined. Disks of enamel and cured sealant materials of BeautiSealant (silica or S‐PRG filler) or Teethmate F‐1 were incubated in lactic acid solutions (pH 4.0) for 1–6 d. The pH changes and amounts of ions released in the solutions were assessed, and enamel surfaces were observed using a scanning electron microscope. The pH of the solution with BeautiSealant (S‐PRG filler) was neutralized from pH 4.0 to pH 6.1 (after incubation for 1 d) and from pH 4.0 to pH 6.7 (after incubation for 6 d). In addition, no release of calcium ions was detected and the enamel surface was morphologically intact in scanning electron microscopy images. However, the pH of the solution with Teethmate F‐1 remained below pH 4.0 during incubation from days 1 to 6. Calcium release was increased in solutions up to and after 6 d of incubation. Scanning electron microscopy images showed that the structures of hydroxyapatite rods were exposed at the specimen surfaces as a result of demineralization. Ions released from S‐PRG filler‐containing dental sealant rapidly buffered the lactic acid solution and inhibited enamel demineralization.
Novel in‐situ longitudinal model for the study of dentifrices on dental erosion–abrasion
Authors: Hara Anderson T. , Barlow Ashley P. , Eckert George J. , Zero Domenick T.
Published: December 2013

A novel longitudinal erosion–abrasion in‐situ model was proposed. In an exploratory test (phase 1) toothbrushing effect was investigated using a parallel design, whereas in the main study (phases 1 + 2), a crossover design tested the effect of fluoride dentifrice. In phase 1, 16 subjects (n = 5–6 subjects per group) wore partial dentures with enamel specimens for 28 d and adhered to one of the following treatment regimens: regimen A, erosion only; regimen B, erosion + toothbrushing with fluoride‐containing dentifrice [1,100 ppm of fluoride as sodium fluoride (NaF)]; and regimen C, erosion + toothbrushing with placebo dentifrice (0 ppm fluoride). Erosion consisted of the exposure of specimens to grapefruit juice. In regimens B and C, toothbrushing was performed with the test dentifrices 5 min after erosion. For the main study a second phase was carried out in which subjects initially treated with regimen B were treated with regimen C, and vice versa (crossover, n = 11), repeating the same experimental protocol. Enamel wear was measured by optical profilometry at baseline and every 7 d thereafter. In the exploratory test (phase 1), no significant differences were observed among regimens at any of the study time‐points. In the main study (phases 1 + 2), higher enamel wear was observed for regimen C than for regimen B. A significant trend was observed for the increase of enamel wear over time. Fluoridated dentifrice reduced the development of erosive–abrasive lesions. The proposed longitudinal model provided adequate responses for erosion–abrasion frequency and fluoride effects.
Surface modification with alumina blasting and H2SO4–HCl etching for bonding two resin‐composite veneers to titanium
Authors: Taira Yohsuke , Egoshi Takafumi , Kamada Kohji , Sawase Takashi
Published: December 2013

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of an experimental surface treatment with alumina blasting and acid etching on the bond strengths between each of two resin composites and commercially pure titanium. The titanium surface was blasted with alumina and then etched with 45wt% H2SO4 and 15wt% HCl (H2SO4–HCl). A light‐ and heat‐curing resin composite (Estenia) and a light‐curing resin composite (Ceramage) were used with adjunctive metal primers. Veneered specimens were subjected to thermal cycling between 4 and 60°C for 50,000 cycles, and the shear bond strengths were determined. The highest bond strengths were obtained for Blasting/H2SO4‐HCl/Estenia (30.2 ± 4.5 MPa) and Blasting/Etching/Ceramage (26.0 ± 4.5 MPa), the values of which were not statistically different, followed by Blasting/No etching/Estenia (20.4 ± 2.4 MPa) and Blasting/No etching/Ceramage (0.8 ± 0.3 MPa). Scanning electron microscopy observations revealed that alumina blasting and H2SO4–HCl etching creates a number of micro‐ and nanoscale cavities on the titanium surface, which contribute to adhesive bonding.
Crystal structure and immunological properties of the first annexin from Schistosoma mansoni: insights into the structural integrity of the schistosomal tegument
Authors: Leow Chiuan Yee , Willis Charlene , Osman Asiah , Mason Lyndel , Simon Anne , Smith Brian J. , Gasser Robin B. , Jones Malcolm K. , Hofmann Andreas
Published: December 2013

Schistosomiasis is a major parasitic disease of humans, second only to malaria in its global impact. The disease is caused by digenean trematodes that infest the vasculature of their human hosts. These flukes are limited externally by a body wall composed of a syncytial epithelium, the apical surface membrane of which is a parasitism‐adapted dual membrane complex. Annexins are thought to be of integral importance for the stability of this apical membrane system. Here, we present the first structural and immunobiochemical characterization of an annexin from Schistosoma mansoni. The crystal structure of annexin B22 confirms the presence of the previously predicted α‐helical segment in the II/III linker and reveals a covalently linked head‐to‐head dimer. From the calcium‐bound crystal structure of this protein, canonical type II, type III and B site positions are occupied, and a novel binding site has been identified. The dimer arrangement observed in the crystal structure suggests the presence of two prominent features, a potential non‐canonical membrane binding site and a potential binding groove opposite to the former. Results from transcriptional profiling during development show that annexin B22 expression is correlated with life stages of the parasite that possess the syncytial tegument layer, and ultrastructural localization by immuno‐electron microscopy confirms the occurrence of annexins in the tegument of S. mansoni. Data from membrane binding and aggregation assays indicate the presence of differential molecular mechanisms and support the hypothesis of annexin B22 providing structural integrity in the tegument.

Database

Coordinates and structure factors have been deposited with the PDB, accession numbers 4mdu, 4mdv

Structured digital abstract

annexin B22 and annexin B22 bind by molecular sieving (View interaction)

annexin B22 and annexin B22 bind by x-ray crystallography (View interaction)
Successful Word Recognition by 10‐Month‐Olds Given Continuous Speech Both at Initial Exposure and Test
Authors: Junge Caroline , Cutler Anne , Hagoort Peter
Published: December 2013

Most words that infants hear occur within fluent speech. To compile a vocabulary, infants therefore need to segment words from speech contexts. This study is the first to investigate whether infants (here: 10‐month‐olds) can recognize words when both initial exposure and test presentation are in continuous speech. Electrophysiological evidence attests that this indeed occurs: An increased extended negativity (word recognition effect) appears for familiarized target words relative to control words. This response proved constant at the individual level: Only infants who showed this negativity at test had shown such a response, within six repetitions after first occurrence, during familiarization.
Mortality and Cardiovascular Risk in Patients With a History of Malignant Hypertension: A Case‐Control Study
Authors: Amraoui Fouad , Van Der Hoeven Niels V. , Van Valkengoed Irene G. M. , Vogt Liffert , Van Den Born Bert‐Jan H.
Published: December 2013

The survival of patients with malignant hypertension (MHT) has considerably improved over the past decades. Data regarding the excess risk of mortality and the contribution of conventional cardiovascular risk factors are lacking. The authors retrospectively assessed cardiovascular risk factors and all‐cause mortality in 120 patients with a history of MHT and compared them with 120 normotensive and 120 hypertensive age‐, sex‐, and ethnicity‐matched controls. Total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and body mass index were lower in MHT patients compared with hypertensive controls, whereas blood pressure, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and smoking habit were similar. Median estimated glomerular filtration rate was lower in MHT patients compared with normotensive and hypertensive controls (both P<.01). The annual incidence of all‐cause mortality per 100 patient‐years was higher in MHT patients (2.6) compared with normotensive (0.2) and hypertensive (0.5) controls (both P<.01). Mortality of patients with a history of MHT remains high compared with normotensive and hypertensive controls. Patients with MHT had a more favorable cardiovascular risk profile compared with hypertensive controls but a higher prevalence of renal insufficiency.
Neonatal brainstem dysfunction after preterm birth predicts behavioral inhibition
Authors: Geva Ronny , Schreiber Jessica , Segal‐Caspi Lihi , Markus‐Shiffman Michal
Published: December 2013

Background

Behavioral inhibition (BI), the tendency to withdraw or exhibit negative affect when experiencing stressful situations, is a major risk factor for the development of social anxiety. However, neonatal biologic origins of this progression are still unknown. Click here to enter text.This study aimed to extend frameworks of behavioral inhibition by exploring empirically the central role of neonatal brainstem electrophysiologic functions in the development of social disengagement and BI.

Methods

Sixty‐six preterm neonates (means ±SD: gestation age = 33.1 ± 1.22 weeks, birth weight = 1775 + 346.7 g; 51% female) participated in a prospective longitudinal study. The infants were tested within the first 2 weeks of postnatal life using an auditory brainstem‐evoked response test. Based on the typicality of the major ABR wave latencies, waves I, III and V, neonates were divided into two groups (compromised, CBSF‐ with at least one component ≥1.5 SDs from the mean for the respective gestation age; normal, NBSF, with all components within 1.5 SD around the mean), and were enrolled in a prospective longitudinal follow‐up study. This report extends previous work from 4 m by testing responses to socioemotional challenges during the Separation–Reunion paradigm at 12 m.

Results

Results show that infants with neonatal CBSF were more susceptible to be classified as BI at 12 m (age corrected for prematurity) than infants with NBSF (66% vs. 40%, respectively). The most striking symptom in the CBSF group was a disability to initiate self‐regulatory activities in response to a socioemotional challenge, resulting in frequent passivity/dependency (p < .001). Statistical regression analysis revealed that face‐to‐face gaze engagement at 4 m moderates the risk related to neonatal CBSF for the emergence of BI at 12 m, but did not overturn the emergence of BI.

Conclusion

Results support the hypothesis that neonatal brainstem dysfunction canalizes behavioral inhibition. These findings highlight, for the first time, the role of the early developing brainstem in later development of BI and in abilities to initiate self‐regulatory behavior.
Mothers' early depressive symptoms and children's first‐grade adjustment: a transactional analysis of child withdrawal as a mediator
Authors: Yan Ni , Dix Theodore
Published: December 2013

Background

The depression‐inhibition hypothesis suggests that mothers' depressive symptoms undermine development because they lead children to withdraw from social contact. To test this, this study examined whether poor first‐grade adjustment among children of mothers with depressive symptoms is mediated by the emergence of child withdrawal in early development.

Method

Based on 1,364 dyads, four waves of data spanning from 24 months to first grade (7 years) were used to examine paths by which children's withdrawal mediates relations between mothers' early depressive symptoms and three first‐grade outcomes: social competence, academic performance, and externalizing behavior problems.

Results

Structural equation modeling revealed three principal paths. First, direct relations were observed: Mothers' depressive symptoms predicted early child withdrawal and increases in child withdrawal over time, which predicted poor first‐grade adjustment. Second, reciprocal relations were observed: Mothers' depressive symptoms predicted child withdrawal, which predicted increases in depressive symptoms. Third, relations via mother–child mutual responsiveness were observed: Depression‐related increases in child withdrawal predicted declines in mutual responsiveness, which predicted poor first‐grade adjustment.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that, due to its interdependence with maternal depression and low mother–child mutual responsiveness over time, child withdrawal may play an important role in the poor first‐grade adjustment of children whose mothers are high in depressive symptoms.
Association of polymorphisms in virulence factor of Helicobacter pylori and gastroduodenal diseases in South Korea
Authors: Kim Ji Yeon , Kim Nayoung , Nam Ryoung Hee , Suh Ji Hyung , Chang Hyun , Lee Jung Won , Kim Young Sun , Kim Jung Mogg , Choi Jae Won , Park Jung Geun , Lee Yeon Suk , Lee Dong Ho , Jung Hyun Chae
Published: December 2013

Background and Aim

Clinical outcomes of Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection have been shown to be dependent on the variability of virulence factors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of each virulence factor and the association between polymorphisms of the virulence factors of HP, and the clinical outcome of gastroduodenal diseases in South Korea.

Methods

Four hundred one HP colonies were analyzed (75 colonies from 45 controls; 71 colonies from 39 benign gastric ulcer [BGU] patients; 102 colonies from 54 duodenal ulcer [DU] patients; 121 colonies from 77 stomach cancer patients; and 32 colonies from 25 dysplasia patients). Polymerase chain reaction amplifications for vacA, cagA, iceA, oipA, and dupA were performed using DNA extract from HP isolates cultured from mucosal biopsy specimens. dupA was regarded as positive when all of jph0718, jph0719, and dupA were positive.

Results

Most colonies were composed of vacA s1 (100.0%), i1 (100.0%) and m1 (92.9%), cagA‐positive (87.2%), iceA1 (95.8%), oipA‐positive (91.2%), and dupA‐negative (52.0%) genotypes. dupA was more frequently expressed in BGU (81.3%), DU (74.7%), and dysplasia (41.7%) than control (16.7%) (P < 0.001). Infection by dupA‐positive HP showed an increased risk of BGU (odds ratio 33.06, 95% confidence interval 11.91–91.79) and DU (odds ratio 15.60, 95% confidence interval 6.49–37.49).

Conclusion

HP infection in South Koreans appears to be closely related to highly virulent strains (vacA s1/i1/m1, cagA(+), iceA1(+), and oipA(+)), except dupA. dupA has an intimate association with the development of peptic ulcer diseases.
Do we need both cognitive and behavioural components in interventions for depressed mood in people with mild intellectual disability?
Authors: McGillivray J. A. , Kershaw M.
Published: December 2013

Background

A growing literature suggests that people with mild intellectual disability (ID) who have depressed mood may benefit from cognitive–behavioural interventions. There has been some speculation regarding the relative merit of the components of this approach. The aim of this study was to compare (i) cognitive strategies; (ii) behavioural strategies; and (iii) combined cognitive–behavioural (CB) strategies on depressed mood among a sample of 70 individuals with mild ID.

Methods

Staff from three participating agencies received training in how to screen individuals with mild ID for depressive symptoms and risk factors for depression. Depressive symptoms and negative automatic thoughts were assessed prior to and at the conclusion of the intervention, and at 6‐month follow‐up. The interventions were run in groups by the same therapist.

Results

A post‐intervention reduction in depression scores was evident in participants of all three interventions, with no significant difference between groups. A significant reduction in negative automatic thoughts post‐intervention was evident in the CB combination group and was maintained at follow‐up. Examination of clinical effectiveness suggests some advantage of the CB combination in terms of improvement and highlights the possible short term impact of behavioural strategies in comparison with the longer‐term potential of cognitive strategies.

Conclusions

The findings support the use of group cognitive–behavioural interventions for addressing symptoms of depression among people with ID. Further research is necessary to determine the effectiveness of components.
On parameterizing thermodynamic descriptions of minerals for petrological calculations
Authors: Powell R. , White R.W. , Green E.C.R. , Holland T.J.B. , Diener J.F.A.
Published: December 2013

A new regularization approach, termed micro‐ϕ, is outlined for parameterizing activity–composition (a–x) relations and other aspects of the thermodynamic descriptions of minerals for petrological calculations. In the context of the symmetric formalism, a formulation of a–x relations that is easily generalizable to multi‐component minerals, parameterization with micro‐ϕ extends from where there are good data available to constrain, for example, interaction energies, to where there are little or no data. This involves decomposing the interaction energies, which are macroscopic between end‐members, into their microscopic components involving interactions between elements on sites. Micro‐ϕ involves heuristics to simplify and approximate these microscopic interaction energies prior to their reassembly as macroscopic interaction energies. Micro‐ϕ also allows parameterization of Fe2+–Mg order–disorder between the sites of minerals. Application of micro‐ϕ is illustrated by making a thermodynamic description of chlorite in FeO–MgO–Al2O3–SiO2–H2O–O, FMASHO. Micro‐ϕ has been developed for use with the significant upgrade of the Holland & Powell internally consistent thermodynamic data set which required the re‐evaluation of a–x relations of several common rock‐forming minerals.
New mineral activity–composition relations for thermodynamic calculations in metapelitic systems
Authors: White R. W. , Powell R. , Holland T. J. B. , Johnson T. E. , Green E. C. R.
Published: December 2013

New activity–composition (a–x) relations for minerals commonly occurring in metapelites are presented for use with the internally consistent thermodynamic dataset of Holland & Powell (, Journal of Metamorphic Geology, 29, 333–383). The a–x relations include a broader consideration of Fe2O3 in minerals, changes to the formalism of several phases and order–disorder in all ferromagnesian minerals where Fe–Mg mixing occurs on multiple sites. The a–x relations for chlorite, biotite, garnet, chloritoid, staurolite, cordierite, orthopyroxene, muscovite, paragonite and margarite have been substantially reparameterized using the approach outlined in the companion paper in this issue. For the first time, the entire set of a–x relations for the common ferromagnesian minerals in metapelitic rocks is parameterized simultaneously, with attention paid to ensuring that they can be used together to calculate phase diagrams of geologically appropriate topology. The a–x relations developed are for use in the Na2O–CaO–K2O–FeO–MgO–Al2O3–SiO2–H2O–TiO2–O2 (NCKFMASHTO) system for both subsolidus and suprasolidus conditions. Petrogenetic grids in KFMASH and KFMASHTO are similar in topology to those produced with earlier end‐member datasets and a–x relations, but with some notable differences. In particular, in subsolidus equilibria, the FeO/(FeO + MgO) of garnet is now greater than in coexisting staurolite, bringing a number of key staurolite‐bearing equilibria into better agreement with inferences from field and petrographic observations. Furthermore, the addition of Fe3+ and Ti to a number of silicate phases allows more plausible equilibria to be calculated in relevant systems. Pseudosections calculated with the new a–x relations are also topologically similar to equivalent diagrams using earlier a–x relations, although with many low variance fields shifting in P–T space to somewhat lower pressure conditions.
The effectiveness of an accessibility‐enhanced multimedia informational educational programme in reducing anxiety and increasing satisfaction of patients undergoing cardiac catheterisation
Authors: Wu Ka‐Lai , Chen Su‐Ru , Ko Wen‐Chin , Kuo Shu‐Yu , Chen Ping‐Ling , Su Hui‐Fang , Chang Wen‐Yin
Published: December 2013

Aims and objectives

To evaluate the effectiveness of an accessibility‐enhanced multimedia informational educational programme in reducing anxiety and increasing satisfaction with the information and materials received by patients undergoing cardiac catheterisation.

Background

Cardiac catheterisation is one of the most anxiety‐provoking invasive procedures for patients. However, informational education using multimedia to inform patients undergoing cardiac catheterisation has not been extensively explored.

Design

A randomised experimental design with three‐cohort prospective comparisons.

Methods

In total, 123 consecutive patients were randomly assigned to one of three groups: regular education; (group 1), accessibility‐enhanced multimedia informational education (group 2) and instructional digital videodisc education (group 3). Anxiety was measured with Spielberger's State Anxiety Inventory, which was administered at four time intervals: before education (T0), immediately after education (T1), before cardiac catheterisation (T2) and one day after cardiac catheterisation (T3). A satisfaction questionnaire was administrated one day after cardiac catheterisation. Data were collected from May 2009–September 2010 and analysed using descriptive statistics, chi‐squared tests, one‐way analysis of variance, Scheffe's post hoc test and generalised estimating equations.

Results

All patients experienced moderate anxiety at T0 to low anxiety at T3. Accessibility‐enhanced multimedia informational education patients had significantly lower anxiety levels and felt the most satisfied with the information and materials received compared with patients in groups 1 and 3. A statistically significant difference in anxiety levels was only found at T2 among the three groups (p = 0·004).

Conclusions

The findings demonstrate that the accessibility‐enhanced multimedia informational education was the most effective informational educational module for informing patients about their upcoming cardiac catheterisation, to reduce anxiety and improve satisfaction with the information and materials received compared with the regular education and instructional digital videodisc education.

Relevance to clinical practice

As the accessibility‐enhanced multimedia informational education reduced patient anxiety and improved satisfaction with the information and materials received, it can be adapted to complement patient education in future regular cardiac care.
Factors associated with consistent contraception and condom use among Māori secondary school students in New Zealand
Authors: Clark Terryann C , Crengle Sue , Sheridan Janie , Rowe Deborah , Robinson Elizabeth
Published: December 2013

Aims

The aims of this study are to provide a profile of sexual health behaviours of Māori youth and to identify factors associated with consistent condom and contraception use.

Methods

Multivariable analyses were conducted to determine relationships between consistent contraception and condom use among all 2059 sexually active Māori participants in the 2007 New Zealand youth health and well‐being survey of secondary school students.

Results

Forty per cent of Māori students were currently sexually active; of these, 55.3% always used contraception, and 41.1% always used condoms. Risk factors for not using contraception were less than or equal to three sexual partners (males odds ratio (OR) 0.55, P = 0.04, females OR 0.35, P = 0.04) and regular cigarette use for females (OR 0.52, P = 0.02). Risk factors for not using condoms were 13‐ to 15‐year‐old females (OR 1.95, P < 0.01) and females who enjoyed sex (OR 0.52, P = 0.02). Family connection was associated with increased use of condoms among males (OR 1.07, P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Reducing sexual risks, increasing opportunities for healthy youth development and family connectedness, alongside access to appropriate services, are required to improve the sexual health of Māori youth.
Allelopathy in the tropical alga Lobophora variegata (Phaeophyceae): mechanistic basis for a phase shift on mesophotic coral reefs?
Authors: Slattery Marc , Lesser Michael P.
Published: December 2013

Macroalgal phase shifts on Caribbean reefs have been reported with increasing frequency, and recent reports of these changes on mesophotic coral reefs have raised questions regarding the mechanistic processes behind algal population expansions to deeper depths. The brown alga Lobophora variegata is a dominant species on many shallow and deep coral reefs of the Caribbean and Pacific, and it increased in percent cover (>50%) up to 61 m on Bahamian reefs following the invasion of the lionfish Pterois volitans. We examined the physiological and ecological constraints contributing to the spread of Lobophora on Bahamian reefs across a mesophotic depth gradient from 30 to 61 m, pre‐ and post‐lionfish invasion. Results indicate that there were no physiological limitations to the depth distribution of Lobophora within this range prior to the lionfish invasion. Herbivory by acanthurids and scarids in algal recruitment plots at mesophotic depths was higher prior to the lionfish invasion, and Lobophora chemical defenses were ineffective against an omnivorous fish species. In contrast, Lobophora exhibited significant allelopathic activity against the coral Montastraea cavernosa and the sponge Agelas clathrodes in laboratory assays. These data indicate that when lionfish predation on herbivorous fish released Lobophora from grazing pressure at depth, Lobophora expanded its benthic cover to a depth of 61 m, where it replaced the dominant coral and sponge species. Our results suggest that this chemically defended alga may out‐compete these species in situ, and that mesophotic reefs may be further impacted in the near future as Lobophora continues to expand to its compensation point.
Habitat invasion research: where vegetation science and invasion ecology meet
Authors: Pyšek Petr , Chytrý Milan
Published: December 2013

In the last decade, habitat‐oriented studies of plant invasions, performed at broad scales and using large data sets of vegetation plots, have focused on quantifying the representation of alien species in vegetation or habitat types, identifying factors underlying invasions, and exploring the pools of species available for invasion into particular habitats. In this essay we summarize what we have learned, discuss constraints associated with this kind of data and outline promising research topics to which a macroecological perspective of habitat invasions can contribute. Such topics include, among others: integrating species‐specific information on invasion status, residence time in the region, biological and ecological traits and phylogenetic relationships into habitat invasion research to better capture the context‐dependence of invasions; focusing on the functional role that alien species, relative to natives, play in plant communities; and obtaining insights into the role of pre‐adaptation for invasion by comparing the functional composition of habitat species pools in the native range. There is still a strong geographic bias, with detailed assessments across broader ranges of habitat types in large regions available only from Europe, the United States and New Zealand, which call for extension of this research to other continents.
Not just welfare over justice: Ethics in forensic consultation
Authors: Candilis Philip J. , Neal Tess M. S.
Published: December 2013

The ethics of forensic professionalism is often couched in terms of competing individual and societal values. Indeed, the welfare of individuals is often secondary to the requirements of society, especially given the public nature of courts of law, forensic hospitals, jails, and prisons. We explore the weaknesses of this dichotomous approach to forensic ethics, offering an analysis of Psychology's historical narrative especially relevant to the national security and correctional settings. We contend that a richer, more robust ethical analysis is available if practitioners consider the multiple perspectives in the forensic encounter, and acknowledge the multiple influences of personal, professional, and social values. The setting, context, or role is not sufficient to determine the ethics of forensic practice.
Durable field resistance to wheat yellow mosaic virus in transgenic wheat containing the antisense virus polymerase gene
Authors: Chen Ming , Sun Liying , Wu Hongya , Chen Jiong , Ma Youzhi , Zhang Xiaoxiang , Du Lipu , Cheng Shunhe , Zhang Boqiao , Ye Xingguo , Pang Junlan , Zhang Xinmei , Li Liancheng , Andika Ida B. , Chen Jianping , Xu Huijun
Published: December 2013

Wheat yellow mosaic virus (WYMV) has spread rapidly and causes serious yield losses in the major wheat‐growing areas in China. Because it is vectored by the fungus‐like organism Polymyxa graminis that survives for long periods in soil, it is difficult to eliminate by conventional crop management or fungicides. There is also only limited resistance in commercial cultivars. In this research, fourteen independent transgenic events were obtained by co‐transformation with the antisense NIb8 gene (the NIb replicase of WYMV) and a selectable gene bar. Four original transgenic lines (N12, N13, N14 and N15) and an offspring line (N12‐1) showed high and durable resistance to WYMV in the field. Four resistant lines were shown to have segregated and only contain NIb8 (without bar) by PCR and herbicide resistance testing in the later generations. Line N12‐1 showed broad‐spectrum resistance to WYMV isolates from different sites in China. After growing in the infested soil, WYMV could not be detected by tissue printing and Western blot assays of transgenic wheat. The grain yield of transgenic wheat was about 10% greater than the wild‐type susceptible control. Northern blot and small RNA deep sequencing analyses showed that there was no accumulation of small interfering RNAs targeting the NIb8 gene in transgenic wheat plants, suggesting that transgene RNA silencing, a common mechanism of virus‐derived disease resistance, is not involved in the process of WYMV resistance. This durable and broad‐spectrum resistance to WYMV in transgenic wheat will be useful for alleviating the damage caused by WYMV.
Late acute rejection: Incidence, risk factors, and effect on graft survival and function
Authors: Eid Loai , Tuchman Shamir , Moudgil Asha
Published: December 2013

Long‐term graft survival and function has not kept pace with short‐term success in kidney transplant (Tx) recipients. LAR ≥6 months post‐Tx may contribute to lack of improvement; risk factors for LAR are not well known. Of 64 Tx recipients followed over six yr, 23 (35.9%) had LAR (LAR group) and 41 had no LAR (no LAR group). Of all variables, significant risk factors for LAR included DGF, (43.4% LAR vs. 14.6% in no LAR group, p = 0.0096); de novo DSA (65.2% vs. 26.8%, p = 0.003); mean COV% of TAC (41.8% vs. 34.6%, p = 0.03); and non‐adherence (34.8% vs. 7.3%, p = 0.0043). DGF and DSA remained statistically significant (p = 0.002 and 0.003, respectively); COV% TAC had borderline significance (p = 0.057), and non‐adherence was not significant on multivariate regression analysis. Patients with LAR had inferior graft survival and function, whereas graft function was stable in the no LAR group over a mean follow‐up of 31.2 months. Patients with de novo DSA and DGF should be considered at risk of LAR; an early diagnosis and treatment of LAR may improve graft survival and function.