bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial and temporal patterns in fish community structure and abundance in the largest U.S. river swamp, the Atchafalaya River floodplain, Louisiana
Authors: Bennett Micah G. , Kozak Justin P.
Published: June 2015

Long‐term monitoring is critical for documenting population and community trends and for management, especially in large river‐floodplain ecosystems that provide important services. Levees have reduced active floodplains in most large rivers, but connectivity in some reaches could promote community resilience. Using multivariate tools and regression, we examined spatial and temporal structure in fish community samples from two decades (>1000 samples, >100 sites) in one of the largest relatively intact river‐floodplain ecosystems in North America – the Atchafalaya River (ARB), Louisiana. Assemblages exhibited significant structure temporally and spatially, with most substantial effects of year and hydrologic subdivisions; however, season and water level also influenced community structure. Temporal trends in communities were limited to few areas, while declines in species richness were more widespread; however, rarefied richness trends suggested that declines were slight. Recent and long‐term declines in abundance of economically important species (e.g., Black Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Bigmouth Buffalo) and increases in others (e.g., Smallmouth Buffalo, Blue Catfish, Freshwater Drum) drove differences among time periods. Our results suggest that the hydrologic subdivisions of the ARB may be an appropriate scale at which to manage fish populations, hydrology and water quality. Although we could not account for several important factors affecting fish communities in the ARB (e.g., hurricanes, major floods), and were limited by sampling variability, our findings highlight the utility of long‐term datasets from large river‐floodplain ecosystems for identifying important scales for management, determining species contributions to community change and forming hypotheses about anthropogenic and environmental drivers of variation in fish communities.
The relationship between alexithymia, empathy and moral judgment in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Gleichgerrcht E. , Tomashitis B. , Sinay V.
Published: June 2015

Background and purpose

Converging research in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) has shown increased rates of alexithymia and disturbances in social cognition, including empathy and theory of mind. Moral judgment is one of the most complex spheres of human cognition, relying on intricate neural circuits related to many other affective, social, cognitive and behavioral processes.

Methods

Relapsing−remitting MS patients (n = 38) and age‐, gender‐ and education‐matched controls (n = 38) completed a measure of alexithymia (Toronto Alexithymia Scale), a measure of empathy (Interpersonal Reactivity Index) and a series of moral dilemmas, for which measures of moral permissibility, emotional reactivity and moral relativity (the perception of how one's moral attitudes compare to the attitudes of the rest of the people) were derived.

Results

Relative to controls, patients exhibited decreased levels of other‐oriented empathy [empathic concern (P < 0.01) and fantasy (P < 0.01)], increased levels of self‐oriented personal distress (P < 0.01), as well as higher rates of alexithymia (P < 0.001). Moral permissibility was significantly reduced in patients with MS (P = 0.038), who also showed higher levels of emotional reactivity (P < 0.01). Additionally, a significantly higher number of patients than controls considered that respondents would deliver similar judgments to the same moral scenarios (P < 0.001).

Discussion

Understanding such complex interactions between individual dispositions and moral cognition has the potential to contribute to the development of better assessment and intervention strategies for MS patients, enhancing quality of life by achieving better social participation.
Molecular phylogeny of Macrolycus (Coleoptera: Lycidae) with description of new species from China
Authors: Li Yun , Bocak Ladislav , Pang Hong
Published: June 2015

Macrolycus is a genus of net‐winged beetles with 69 species distributed in the eastern Palearctic and northernmost part of the Oriental region. The first molecular phylogeny of Macrolycus was produced using an rrnL + tRNA‐Leu + nad1 mtDNA fragment. The major lineages and species limits were identified with morphology and molecular data. We propose that Cerceros is a subgenus of Macrolycus to enable identification of all adult specimens in the genus without DNA sequencing. Two species groups are proposed in Macrolycus s. str. and six in Cerceros. Additionally, twelve Macrolycus species are newly described from China: M. aquilinus, M. baihualingensis, M. bicolor, M. guangxiensis, M. jianfenglingensis, M. kuatunensis, M. lizipingensis, M. parvus, M. phoeniceus, M. rhodoneurus, M. rosaceus and M. sichuanensis. Macrolycus holzschuhi is proposed to be a junior subjective synonym of M. jeanvoinei. The highest diversity of Macrolycus is found in southern China. The species from the main islands of Japan are placed in two species groups: M. excellens is a sister to remaining species of the M. murzini group and the M. flabellatus group is a monophylum of closely related species in a sister position to the M. bicolor group.
X‐linked focal epilepsy with reflex bathing seizures: Characterization of a distinct epileptic syndrome
Authors: Nguyen Dang Khoa , Rouleau Isabelle , Sénéchal Geneviève , Ansaldo Ana Inés , Gravel Micheline , Benfenati Fabio , Cossette Patrick
Published: June 2015

Objective

We recently reported a Q555X mutation of synapsin 1 (SYN1) on chromosome Xp11‐q21 in a family segregating partial epilepsy and autistic spectrum disorder. Herein, we provide a detailed description of the epileptic syndrome in the original family.

Methods

A total of 34 members from a large French‐Canadian family were evaluated. Family members with seizures or epilepsy underwent (when possible) clinical, neuropsychological, electrophysiologic, and neuroimaging assessments.

Results

Epilepsy was diagnosed in 10 family members (4 deceased, 6 living). In addition to occasional spontaneous complex partial seizures, seven family members clearly had reflex seizures triggered by bathing or showering. Hippocampal atrophy was found in two of five epileptic family members family members who underwent magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Video–electroencephalography (EEG) recordings of three triggered seizures in two affected members showed rhythmic theta activity over temporal head regions. Ictal single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) showed temporoinsular perfusion changes. Detailed neuropsychological assessments revealed that SYN1 Q555X male mutation carriers showed specific language impairment and mild autistic spectrum disorder. Female carriers also exhibited reading impairments and febrile seizures but no chronic epilepsy.

Significance

Available evidence suggests that impaired SYN1 function is associated with hyperexcitability of the temporoinsular network and disturbance of high mental functions such as language and social interaction. The presence of reflex bathing seizures, a most peculiar clinical feature, could be helpful in identifying other patients with this syndrome.
Determinants of male floating behaviour and floater reproduction in a threatened population of the hihi (Notiomystis cincta)
Authors: Brekke Patricia , Ewen John G. , Clucas Gemma , Santure Anna W.
Published: June 2015

Floating males are usually thought of as nonbreeders. However, some floating individuals are able to reproduce through extra‐pair copulations. Floater reproductive success can impact breeders’ sex ratio, reproductive variance, multiple paternity and inbreeding, particularly in small populations. Changes in reproductive variance alter the rate of genetic drift and loss of genetic diversity. Therefore, genetic management of threatened species requires an understanding of floater reproduction and determinants of floating behaviour to effectively conserve species. Here, we used a pedigreed, free‐living population of the endangered New Zealand hihi (Notiomystis cincta) to assess variance in male reproductive success and test the genetic (inbreeding and heritability) and conditional (age and size) factors that influence floater behaviour and reproduction. Floater reproduction is common in this species. However, floater individuals have lower reproductive success and variance in reproductive success than territorial males (total and extra‐pair fledglings), so their relative impact on the population's reproductive performance is low. Whether an individual becomes a floater, and if so then how successful they are, is determined mainly by individual age (young and old) and to lesser extents male size (small) and inbreeding level (inbred). Floating males have a small, but important role in population reproduction and persistence of threatened populations.
Portal or subcutaneous insulin infusion: efficacy and impact on liver inflammation
Authors: Dal Stéphanie , Jeandidier Nathalie , Schaschkow Anaïs , Spizzo Anne‐Hélène , Seyfritz Elodie , Sookhareea Cynthia , Bietiger William , Péronet Claude , Moreau François , Pinget Michel , Maillard Elisa , Sigrist Séverine
Published: June 2015

Intraperitoneal insulin allows physiological portal insulin administration and first‐pass hepatic insulin extraction, but the impact on liver metabolism and inflammation is unknown. Our objective was to compare the impact, on metabolic control and liver function, of the same dose of insulin administered either intraperitoneally or subcutaneously during continuous infusion in diabetic rats. Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: control (C), untreated diabetic (streptozotocin, 100 mg/kg) and diabetic rats treated by continual subcutaneous Insuplant® infusion (CSII) and continual intraperitoneal Insuplant® infusion (CPII) of 2 UI/200 g/day (via an osmotic mini‐pump for 1–4 weeks). Insulin signalling pathways were analysed through hepatic expression of growth hormone receptor and phosphorylated insulin receptor substrate 1. Metabolic control was determined by measurement of body weight, blood glucose and fructosamine. Liver function was assessed by measuring insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1), with global inflammation assessed by levels of alpha‐2‐macroglobulin (α2M) and lipid peroxidation in plasma. Liver inflammation was evaluated by quantification of hepatic macrophage infiltration and reactive oxygen species production. CPII induced a better improvement in metabolic control and liver function than CSII, producing a significant decrease in blood glucose and fructosamine, coupled with increased IGF‐1 and hepatic glycogen storage. Moreover, liver oxidative stress and liver inflammation were reduced. Such observations indicate that the same insulin level in CPII improves glucose control and hepatic glucose metabolism and function, attenuating the hepatic inflammatory response to diabetes. These data demonstrate the importance of focusing on therapeutics to allow first‐pass hepatic insulin extraction or prevent diabetic complications.
Do Geographic Concentration and Vertically Related Variety Foster Firm Productivity? Micro‐Evidence from Italy
Authors: Cainelli Giulio , Ganau Roberto , Iacobucci Donato
Published: June 2015

Using a large unbalanced panel dataset of more than 12,000 Italian manufacturing firms for the period 1999–2007, this paper investigates the role of geographic concentration and related variety on firms' total factor productivity (TFP). The main idea is that diversification—captured by a measure of vertically related variety—promotes firm innovativeness and, consequently, productivity, but when the technology has been consolidated, firms join specialized clusters that enhance efficiency. Our results suggest that the effect on firms' TFP of geographic concentration is stronger than that of related variety. We also confirm previous findings on the relevance of agglomeration forces for small firms compared with medium and large firms, where these agglomerative forces do not seem to influence TFP.
Clinicopathological and immunohistological features of polypoid endometriosis
Authors: Stewart Colin JR , Bharat Chrianna
Published: June 2015

Aims

To compare clinicopathological and immunohistochemical features of polypoid endometriosis (PE) and non‐polypoid endometriosis (NPE).

Methods and results

Fifteen cases of PE and 20 cases of NPE were assessed. All cases were stained immunohistochemically for CD10 and p16 and the proportion of p16‐positive stromal and epithelial cells was estimated. On review, 10 PE cases resembled NPE histologically but occurred at mucosal or serosal surfaces, or within cyst cavities, that permitted polyp formation. These cases had a similar age distribution and immunohistochemical profile to NPE. The remaining five PE cases showed histological similarity to eutopic endometrial polyps; these occurred in older patients, and showed significantly greater stromal and epithelial p16 immunoreactivity.

Conclusions

There are two main subgroups of PE. The majority of cases in this series showed similar histological features to NPE, but involved anatomical sites that facilitated exophytic or polypoid growth. The remaining PE cases resembled eutopic endometrial polyps histologically and immunophenotypically and they occurred in older patients. These findings suggest that such lesions are ‘true’ polyps sharing a pathogenetic relationship with similar lesions arising in the endometrium.
Fibulin‐5 regulates keloid‐derived fibroblast‐like cells through integrin beta‐1
Authors: Furie N. , Shteynberg D. , Elkhatib R. , Perry L. , Ullmann Y. , Feferman Y. , Preis M. , Flugelman M. Y. , Tzchori I.
Published: June 2015

Synopsis

Objective

Keloid scar is pathological tissue that appears after skin injury, and that is more aggressive than hypertrophic scars. Keloid scars are characterized by increased proliferation of fibroblast‐like cells (FLCs) and the accumulation of extracellular matrix, mainly collagen. Fibulin‐5, a glycoprotein secreted by many cell types, is a component of the extracellular matrix. We investigated the effect of fibulin‐5 on the adhesion and proliferation of FLCs derived from keloid scars and the role of integrin beta‐1 in these activities.

Methods

Fibroblast‐like cells were isolated from six keloid scars and cultured on plates coated with fibulin‐5 or with gelatin. Cells were incubated for 72–96 h to examine proliferation rates and incubated for 240 min, with washings at 20, 40, 60, 90, 120, 180 min, to assess adhesion rates. To examine the role of integrin beta‐1, the anti‐human integrin beta‐1 (CD29) antibody was added to the culture medium.

Results

Fibroblast‐like cells from keloids cultured on a fibulin‐5‐coated surface showed a significantly reduced proliferation rate and a delayed adhesion rate, compared to cells cultured on gelatin‐coated dishes. Adherence of these cells to fibulin‐5 pre‐coated wells was significantly reduced in the presence of anti‐human integrin beta‐1 (CD29) antibodies. Our current findings are similar to previously observed reduced proliferation in vascular smooth muscle cells overexpressing fibulin‐5. We did not test the effects of fibulin‐5 on normal fibroblasts.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the pivotal role of the extracellular protein, fibulin‐5, on the adhesion and proliferation of human keloid‐derived cells, through binding to integrin beta‐1.
Gender differences in chewing discomfort in older South Koreans
Authors: Kim Y‐J , Kim C‐B , Ahn Y‐H , Chung W‐G , Kim N‐H
Published: June 2015

Aims

The purpose of this study was to identify gender differences in chewing discomfort among elderly Koreans.

Methods

This study used data from 56 616 (weighted sample: 5 638 394) subjects aged over 65 years who participated in the 2011 Community Health Survey in Korea. Of them, 23 059 (weighted sample: 2 368 200, 42.0%) were men and 33 357 (weighted sample: 3 270 194, 58.0%) were women. Data were analysed using chi‐square tests and hierarchical logistic regression analyses, with SPSS 20.0. Chewing discomfort was set as the dependent variable, and independent variables were divided into socio‐economic factors (place of residence, age, education, monthly household income, basic living security stipend, private insurance, economic activity, living arrangements), general health factors (hypertension, diabetes) and oral health factors (tooth defects, denture use, subjective periodontal health status).

Results

A greater proportion of women (50.2%) than men (42.6%) exhibited chewing discomfort (P < 0.001). In men, place of residence, monthly household income, private health insurance, tooth defects and periodontal health were associated with chewing discomfort (P < 0.05). In women, age, education level, basic living security stipend and denture use were associated with chewing discomfort (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Elderly Korean women experience more severe chewing discomfort than their male counterparts. The factors associated with chewing also differ by gender.
Who buys from farmers’ markets and farm shops: The case of Germany
Authors: Bavorova Miroslava , Unay‐Gailhard Ilkay , Lehberger Mira
Published: June 2015

In this article, we analyze the influence of sociodemographic factors and consumer attitudes toward direct marketing products and sources (outlets) on the frequency of buying food from farmers’ markets and farm shops. By conducting an intercept survey with pedestrians in 2011 and 2012, we interviewed a total of n = 550 consumers. The target regions of the study were the Eastern German federal states. The study uses two ordered logit regression models to investigate consumers’ shopping behaviour at farmers’ markets and farm shops separately. We find that different factors significantly influence consumers’ buying behaviour at the two direct marketing outlets. Specifically, both a more favorable view toward the freshness of directly marketed foods and the intention to support local producers are positively related to consumers’ purchase frequency from farmers’ markets. In contrast, consumers’ purchase frequency from farm shops is significantly influenced by their perception of the cost of the products, confidence in food producers of directly marketed products, perception of the safety of the food and perception of the accessibility of farm shops. The study results indicate that considering consumer behaviour separately for different direct marketing channels for food rather than considering the entire category of local food outlets may provide new and valuable insights.
Genetics of common variable immunodeficiency: role of transmembrane activator and calcium modulator and cyclophilin ligand interactor
Authors: Sathkumara H. D. , De Silva N. R. , Handunnetti S. , De Silva A. D.
Published: June 2015

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is the most common clinically manifested primary immunodeficiency, which represents a heterogeneous group of hypogammaglobulinemias of largely unknown molecular defects. The hallmark of the disease is the elevated susceptibility to recurrent infections of respiratory and gastrointestinal tract, mainly due to encapsulated bacteria while a significant proportion of patients with CVID develop autoimmune and lymphoproliferative complications. The primary cause of CVID is still not known. However, a number of distinct genetic defects including in inducible co‐stimulator (ICOS), B‐cell‐activating factor receptor (BAFFR) and transmembrane activator and calcium modulator and cyclophilin ligand interactor (TACI) have been identified in a minority of patients with CVID. Mutations in tumour necrosis factor receptor superfamily (TNFRSF) member, TACI, are more frequently found to be associated to the disease in about 10% of patients with CVID, but may require additional immunologic defects for complete expression of the phenotype, as unaffected heterozygotes have also been described. Clinically, patients with TACI mutations could present with the complete spectrum of complications seen in CVID. Recent animal studies have provided substantial information on TACI signalling, yet it still offers an outstanding opportunity for further exploration of the aetiology, as a large part of it remains poorly understood. In this review, we aim at giving an insight into the genetics underlying the CVID and particularly at outlining the role of TACI and its relative contribution to the development of CVID‐like phenotypes in human.
Possible pathophysiology of ketamine‐related cystitis and associated treatment strategies
Authors: Jhang Jia‐Fong , Hsu Yung‐Hsiang , Kuo Hann‐Chorng
Published: June 2015

Ketamine‐related cystitis is characterized by ketamine‐induced urinary frequency and bladder pain. It has become a serious problem in recent years. The most typical grossly pathological bladder change with ketamine related cystitis is a contracted bladder and bladder wall thickening. Ulcerative cystitis with an easily bleeding mucosa is a common cystoscopic finding. Microscopically, the urothelium is denuded and is infiltrated by inflammatory cells, such as mast cells and eosinophils. The pathogenesis of ketamine‐related cystitis is complicated and involves many different pathways. Past evidence suggests a direct toxic effect, bladder barrier dysfunction, neurogenic inflammation, immunoglobulin‐E‐mediated inflammation, overexpression of carcinogenic genes, abnormal apoptosis and nitric oxide synthase‐mediated inflammation contribute to the pathogenesis of ketamine‐related cystitis. The first step to managing ketamine‐related cystitis is always asking patients to cease ketamine. Medical treatment might be helpful in patients with early ketamine‐related cystitis and abstinence from ketamine. Several case studies showed that the intravesical installation of hyaluronic acid and intravesical injection of botulinum toxin type A were effective for symptom relief in selected patients. For patients with irreversible pathological change, such as contracted bladder, augmentation enterocystoplasty might be the only solution to increase bladder capacity and relieve intractable bladder pain.
Palonosetron with aprepitant plus dexamethasone to prevent chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting during gemcitabine/cisplatin in urothelial cancer patients
Authors: Kitamura Hiroshi , Takahashi Atsushi , Hotta Hiroshi , Kato Ryuichi , Kunishima Yasuharu , Takei Fumiyasu , Horita Hiroki , Masumori Naoya ,   the Sapporo Medical University Urologic Oncology Consortium
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To evaluate the appearance of chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting, and to compare the antiemetic efficacy of the triple combination of palonosetron, aprepitant and dexamethasone with that of our old regimen using first‐generation 5‐hydroxytryptamine 3‐receptor antagonists and dexamethasone during gemcitabine and cisplatin chemotherapy in patients with advanced urothelial cancer.

Methods

We carried out a multi‐institutional study including 122 patients who received gemcitabine and cisplatin for advanced urothelial cancer between February 2005 and January 2012. Uncontrolled chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting events were identified through records of nausea and vomiting, additional infusion, rescue medications, and/or records of food intake.

Results

First‐generation 5‐hydroxytryptamine 3‐receptor antagonists (ondansetron or granisetron) plus dexamethasone were used for 75 patients (cohort 1), and palonosetron with dexamethasone plus aprepitant for 47 patients (cohort 2). Patients in cohort 2 had significantly higher complete response (defined as no emetic episodes and no rescue medication use) rates than those in cohort 1 during the overall phase in the first cycle (85.7% vs 65.3%, P = 0.012), and all cycles (78.7% vs 50.7%, P = 0.0019) of gemcitabine and cisplatin. Patients in cohort 2 were more likely to achieve more favorable chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting control; that is, a lower grade of nausea, vomiting or anorexia, lower incidence of rescue therapy required, and shorter time to become chemotherapy‐induced nausea‐ and vomiting‐free than patients in cohort 1.

Conclusions

The present results show that palonosetron in combination with aprepitant and dexamethasone is more effective to prevent chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting in urothelial cancer patients treated with gemcitabine and cisplatin than first‐generation 5‐hydroxytryptamine 3‐receptor antagonists plus dexamethasone.
Identification of a subgroup with worse prognosis among patients with poor‐risk testicular germ cell tumor
Authors: Kojima Takahiro , Kawai Koji , Tsuchiya Kunihiko , Abe Takashige , Shinohara Nobuo , Tanaka Toshiaki , Masumori Naoya , Yamada Shigeyuki , Arai Yoichi , Narita Shintaro , Tsuchiya Norihiko , Habuchi Tomonori , Nishiyama Hiroyuki
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To clarify the significance of the International Germ Cell Cancer Collaborative Group classification in the 2000s, especially in intermediate‐ and poor‐prognosis testicular germ cell tumor in Japan.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 117 patients with intermediate‐ and poor‐prognosis testicular non‐seminomatous germ cell tumor treated at five university hospitals in Japan between 2000 and 2010. Data collected included age, levels of tumor markers, spread to non‐pulmonary visceral metastases, treatment details and survival.

Results

The median follow‐up period of all patients was 57 months. A total of 50 patients (43%) were classified as having intermediate prognosis, and 67 patients (57%) as poor prognosis according to the International Germ Cell Cancer Collaborative Group classification. As first‐line chemotherapy, 92 patients (79%) received bleomycin, etoposide and cisplatin. Of all patients, 74 patients (63%) received second‐line chemotherapy. The most commonly used second‐line chemotherapy regimens were a combination of taxanes, ifosfamide and platinum in 49 cases (66%). Overall, 33 patients (28%) received third‐line chemotherapy. A total of 88 patients (75%) underwent post‐chemotherapy surgery. The 5‐year overall survival for intermediate (n = 50) and poor prognosis (n = 67) was 89% and 83% (P = 0.21), respectively. In poor prognosis patients, patients with two or more risk factors (any of high lactic dehydrogenase, alpha‐fetoprotein and human chorionic gonadotropin levels, and presence of non‐pulmonary visceral metastases) had significantly worse survival than those with only one risk factor (71% and 91%, respectively, P = 0.01).

Conclusions

The 5‐year overall survivals of poor‐prognosis testicular non‐seminomatous germ cell tumor patients reached 83%. Further stratification of poor‐prognosis patients based on a number of risk factors has the potential to further identify those with poorer prognosis.
The p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase cascade modulates T helper type 17 differentiation and functionality in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Di Mitri Diletta , Sambucci Manolo , Loiarro Maria , De Bardi Marco , Volpe Elisabetta , Cencioni Maria Teresa , Gasperini Claudio , Centonze Diego , Sette Claudio , Akbar Arne N. , Borsellino Giovanna , Battistini Luca
Published: June 2015

The p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase cascade is required for the induction of a T helper type 17 (Th17) ‐mediated autoimmune response, which underlies the development and progression of several autoimmune diseases, such as experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, the animal model of multiple sclerosis (MS). However, the contribution of p38 phosphorylation to human Th cell differentiation has not been clarified. Here we demonstrate that the p38 signalling pathway is implicated in the generation of Th17 lymphocytes from human CD4+ CD27+ CD45RA+ naive T cells, both in healthy donors and in patients affected by the relapsing–remitting form of MS. Our data also indicate that p38 activation is essential for interleukin‐17 release from central memory lymphocytes and committed Th17 cell clones. Furthermore, CD4+ T cells isolated from individuals with relapsing–remitting MS display an altered responsiveness of the p38 cascade, resulting in increased p38 phosphorylation upon stimulation. These findings suggest that the p38 signalling pathway, by modulating the Th17 differentiation and response, is involved in the pathogenesis of MS, and open new perspectives for the use of p38 inhibitors in the treatment of Th17‐mediated autoimmune diseases.
Soft X‐ray Spectromicroscopic Investigation of Synthetic C‐S‐H and C3S Hydration Products
Authors: Bae Sungchul , Taylor Rae , Hernández‐Cruz Daniel , Yoon Seyoon , Kilcoyne David , Monteiro Paulo J.M
Published: June 2015

Calcium silicate hydrates (C‐S‐H), the primary binding phase in concrete, is the most prominent physiochemical factor controlling the mechanical and chemical properties in the production of concrete. This paper reports the local‐binding structure and morphological details of C‐S‐H as determined by high‐resolution X‐ray spectromicroscopy. Hydrated tricalcium silicate (C3S) was used to determine the properties and role of the outer products (Op) of C3S. C‐S‐H with different molar ratios of Ca/Si, were synthesized (Syn‐CSH) to quantitatively evaluate the effect of silicate polymerization on Ca L and Si K edge of C‐S‐H. Near edge X‐ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) spectroscopy of Syn‐CSH showed no variation in peak positions and energy separation for CaLIII, II edge for the Ca/Si ratios investigated. Compared to Syn‐CSH, C3S, when hydrated for 17 d, had a similar local structure around Ca. Si K edge NEXAFS analysis on Syn‐CSH showed a tendency for the peak positions of both the Si K edge and the peak induced by multiple scattering to shift to higher energy levels. The results also indicated that the distance between the two peaks increased with a decrease of the Ca/Si ratio in Syn‐CSH. Silicate polymerization influenced the multiple scattering of distant shell atoms more than the binding energy of the core atoms. Op of C3S had a uniform and higher degree of silicate polymerization compared to the core area. The results imply that Op reduces the hydration process of C3S into the core area thereby playing a key role on the properties of concrete upon formation.
From a Disciplinary to an Interdisciplinary Design Research: Developing an Integrative Approach for Design
Authors: Chou Wen Huei , Wong Ju‐Joan
Published: June 2015

As the new generation of designers face more complex design issues, the forms of design research start to shift towards a user‐centred approach to problem‐solving. The cooperation and communication among various fields and specialisations are becoming more complex; in many practical design cases, in particular, technology developers face challenges in deciphering the creative ideas of designers and the needs and restraints of users, society, law and science. The emergence of integrative design based on a wide range of disciplines has prompted discussion and exploration among various participants. The direction of contemporary design research has already transformed from one based on production of artefact to one focused on the integration of varied knowledge and fields at different stages. We examine such design research based on a problem‐driven approach in two case studies characterised by interdisciplinary collaboration for solving complex problems. We focus on the transformation and implementation of integrative design research methods and suggest a ‘reflection‐in‐action’ problem‐solving process for strengthening the capabilities of multidisciplinary design research.
The Challenge of Beginning
Authors: Hargrove Ryan , Rice Art
Published: June 2015

This article presents a way of approaching introductory design education that expands student creativity through building on research related to the impact of cognitive development and metacognitive thinking. The strategy presented emphasises the importance of encouraging divergent thinking and understanding how students perceive knowledge. The goal is to create a learning environment that acknowledges where students are in their thinking and provides a structure that promotes both cognitive and creative growth.
Arts Practice and Research: Locating Alterity and Expertise
Authors: Grennan Simon
Published: June 2015

There is still no agreed pedagogic definition of practice‐based research. However, there is not a dearth of definitions, but rather a wide variety, predicated upon the developing programmes of individual places of study. This article will examine these definitions in terms of underlying concepts of intentionality and alterity and the ways in which instrumental use of them affects study. The article will discuss a number of existing models for the theorising and adjudication of practice as research, and the questions that underpin their development. First, are non‐text outputs, and the methods of their production, able to communicate knowledge rather than simply constituting knowledge? Second, by what criteria can this knowledge be adjudicated within an academic environment? Third, what is the status of these outputs and methods relative to the production of text? It will propose that interrogation of these models will advance little in discussions that focus on media. Text or nottext is beside the point. Rather, the relationship between research and practice can be explored as a relationship between intentionality and alterity, based in an essentially social conception of communities of expertise, including academic communities of expertise. Finally, the article will describe an attempt by the author to undertake a drawing activity in response to a research question, in order to assess the possibilities of articulating practice specifically in order to demonstrate expert knowledge of the field in which a research question occurs.
A randomized trial of ethyl lauroyl arginate‐containing mouthrinse in the control of gingivitis
Authors: Gallob John T. , Lynch Michael , Charles Christine , Ricci‐Nittel Danette , Mordas Carolyn , Gambogi Robert , Revankar Ratna , Mutti Bruna , Labella Roberto
Published: June 2015

Aim

This 4‐week, single‐centre, randomized, examiner‐blind, controlled study investigated the efficacy and safety of 0.15% ethyl lauroyl arginate (LAE)‐containing mouthrinse in adults with mild‐to‐moderate gingivitis.

Material and Methods

Subjects were randomized to use 0.15% LAE‐containing mouthrinse or 5% hydroalcohol‐negative control twice daily after brushing with standard fluoride toothpaste. Plaque, gingivitis and bleeding were assessed at baseline and Weeks 2 and 4. The oral microflora was analysed at baseline and Week 4.

Results

Eighty‐seven subjects were randomized to treatment. The 0.15% LAE‐containing mouthrinse was associated with statistically significantly (p < 0.001) greater reductions in mean plaque and gingivitis scores versus the negative control at Week 2 (difference [95% confidence interval]: plaque 0.83 [0.64, 1.02], 29.1%; gingivitis 0.11 [0.07, 0.14], 4.8%) and Week 4 (co‐primary endpoints: plaque 1.23 [1.07, 1.39], 42.6%; gingivitis 0.23 [0.19, 0.28], 10.7%). Bleeding‐index scores were significantly (p < 0.001) reduced versus the control at Weeks 2 (by 0.04 [0.03, 0.06], 36.3%) and 4 (by 0.06 [0.04, 0.08], 50.9%). No shifts were detected in the oral microflora. There were no treatment‐related adverse events.

Conclusions

The 0.15% LAE‐containing mouthrinse was well tolerated and significantly reduced plaque, gingivitis and bleeding when used as an adjunct to tooth brushing for 4 weeks.
Contextual variation in young children's observed disruptive behavior on the DB‐DOS: implications for early identification
Authors: Petitclerc Amélie , Briggs‐Gowan Margaret J. , Estabrook Ryne , Burns James L. , Anderson Erica L. , McCarthy Kimberly J. , Wakschlag Lauren S.
Published: June 2015

Background

Contextual variation in child disruptive behavior is well documented but remains poorly understood. We first examine how variation in observed disruptive behavior across interactional contexts is associated with maternal reports of contextual variation in oppositional‐defiant behavior and functional impairment. Second, we test whether child inhibitory control explains the magnitude of contextual variation in observed disruptive behavior.

Methods

Participants are 497 young children (mean age = 4 years, 11 months) from a subsample of the MAPS, a sociodemographically diverse pediatric sample, enriched for risk of disruptive behavior. Observed anger modulation and behavioral regulation problems were coded on the Disruptive Behavior Diagnostic Observation Schedule (DB‐DOS) during interactions with parent and examiner. Oppositional‐defiant behavior, and impairment in relationships, with parents and nonparental adults, were measured with the Preschool Age Psychiatric Assessment (PAPA) interview with the mother. Functional impairment in the home and out‐and‐about was assessed with the Family Life Impairment Scale (FLIS), and expulsion from child care/school was measured with the baseline survey and FLIS.

Results

Observed disruptive behavior on the DB‐DOS Parent Context was associated with oppositional‐defiant behavior with parents, and with impairment at home and out‐and‐about. Observed disruptive behavior with the Examiner was associated with oppositional‐defiant behavior with both parents and nonparental adults, impairment in relationships with nonparental adults, and child care/school expulsion. Differences in observed disruptive behavior in the Parent versus Examiner Contexts was related to the differences in maternal reports of oppositional‐defiant behavior with parents versus nonparental adults. Children with larger decreases in disruptive behavior from Parent to Examiner Context had better inhibitory control and fewer attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms.

Conclusions

The DB‐DOS showed clinical utility in a community sample for identifying contextual variation that maps onto reported oppositional‐defiant behavior and functioning across contexts. Elucidating the implications of contextual variation for early identification and targeted prevention is an important area for future research.
Clinical study of repaglinide efficacy and safety in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with blood glucose levels inadequately controlled by sitagliptin
Authors: Kawamori Ryuzo , Kaku Kohei , Hanafusa Toshiaki , Ioriya Katsuhisa , Kageyama Shigeru , Hotta Nigishi
Published: June 2015

Aims/Introduction

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the long‐term efficacy and safety of adding repaglinide in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus whose blood glucose levels were not sufficiently controlled by treatment with a dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor, sitagliptin, in addition to diet and exercise therapies.

Materials and Methods

This was a multicenter, uncontrolled, dose‐titration study with a treatment period of 52 weeks. The primary end‐point was the change in glycated hemoglobin levels from baseline.

Results

The glycated hemoglobin level was 7.43 ± 0.57% (mean ± standard deviation) at baseline, and decreased to 6.93 ± 0.91% at the end of the study. The mean changes in glycated hemoglobin levels at 4 weeks and at the end of the study were −0.44 ± 0.28% and −0.50 ± 0.82%, respectively. The glycated hemoglobin‐lowering effect was maintained for 52 weeks. The rate of adverse events was 86.0% (86/100), and there were 352 adverse events. The rate of adverse drug reactions was 21.0% (21/100). Hypoglycemia was reported in 5.0% (5/100) of patients, but there was no incidence of ‘major hypoglycemia’.

Conclusions

Combination therapy with repaglinide and sitagliptin was considered effective for a long term without clinical safety problems in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Ultrastructural and Phylogenetic Description of Kudoa orbicularis n. sp. (Myxosporea: Multivalvulida): A Parasite Infecting the Muscle of the Fish Chaetobranchopsis orbicularis (Teleostei: Cichlidae) in the Amazon Region
Authors: Azevedo Carlos , Rocha Sónia , Matos Edilson , Oliveira Elsa , Matos Patrícia , Al‐Quraishy Saleh , Casal Graça
Published: June 2015

A new myxosporean species is described from the muscle of the Amazonian freshwater fish Chaetobranchopsis orbicularis (Teleostei, Cichlidae), with basis on morphometric, ultrastructural and molecular data. Numerous myxospores were observed within pseudocysts located on the hosts' dorsal and ventral muscles, near the neural spines and neural canal (spinal cord). Mature myxospores quadrangular with rounded ends in apical view, measuring 4.3 (3.6–5.0) μm in length and 5.1 (4.2–5.8) μm in width. The myxospores wall is formed by four symmetric valves. Within, four pyriform polar capsules, 2.1 (1.7–2.6) μm long and 1.3 (0.9–1.7) μm wide, located two by two in opposite sides of the myxospores longitudinal axis, each containing a polar filament forming 2–3 coils. Molecular analysis of the SSU rRNA gene by maximum likelihood, neighbor‐joining and maximum parsimony confirms the parasite as a new member of the genus Kudoa, herein named Kudoa orbicularis n. sp., the second species of its genus reported from the South American freshwater fauna, and the fourth species worldwide known to occur in the freshwater environment. Furthermore, its sequence of the SSU rRNA gene constitutes the first entry of a freshwater Kudoa species in GenBank.
Insights into the virulence‐related genes of Edwardsiella tarda isolated from turbot in Europe: genetic homogeneity and evidence for vibrioferrin production
Authors: Castro N , Osorio C R , Buján N , Fuentes J C , Rodríguez J , Romero M , Jiménez C , Toranzo A E , Magariños B
Published: June 2015

Edwardsiella tarda has long been known as a pathogen that causes severe economic losses in aquaculture industry. Insights gained on E. tarda pathogenesis may prove useful in the development of new methods for the treatment of infections as well as preventive measures against future outbreaks. In this report, we have established the correlation between the presence of virulence genes, related with three aspects typically involved in bacterial pathogenesis (chondroitinase activity, quorum sensing and siderophore‐mediated ferric uptake systems), in the genome of E. tarda strains isolated from turbot in Europe and their phenotypic traits. A total of 8 genes were tested by PCR for their presence in 73 E. tarda isolates. High homogeneity was observed in the presence/absence pattern of all the strains. Positive results in the amplification of virulence‐related genes were correlated with the detection of chondroitinase activity in agar plates, in vivo AHL production during fish infection and determination of type of siderophore produced by E. tarda. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study carried out with European strains on potential virulence factors. Furthermore, we demonstrated for the first time that E. tarda produces the siderophore vibrioferrin.
The tertiary prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic hepatitis C patients
Authors: Huang Jee‐Fu , Yeh Ming‐Lun , Yu Ming‐Lung , Dai Chia‐Yen , Huang Chung‐Feng , Huang Ching‐I , Tsai Pei‐Chien , Lin Pei‐Chen , Chen Yao‐Li , Chang Wen‐Tsan , Hou Nai‐Jen , Lin Zu‐Yau , Chen Shinn‐Cherng , Chuang Wan‐Long
Published: June 2015

Background and Aim:

Pegylated interferon‐alpha plus ribavirin combination (PegIFN/RBV) therapy possesses positive effect in the secondary prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients. The current study aimed to assess its efficacy in the tertiary prevention and to validate the performance of the MHC class I polypeptide‐related chain A (MICA) level in the prediction of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence.

Methods:

A multi‐center study enrolling 105 consecutive HCC patients post curative therapies were prospectively recruited. The primary outcome measurement was recurrence of HCC.

Results:

The mean observational period was 52.7 months (range = 3.9–121.5 months). Fifty‐six (53.3%) patients achieved sustained virological response (SVR). After completion of treatment, 43 (41.0%) patients developed HCC recurrence, and 24 (55.8%) of them had their recurrence within 6 months after completion of therapy. Thirty‐three (76.7%) of the patients with HCC recurrence were of de novo pattern. Those responders tended to have a lower cumulative incidence of recurrence than those non‐responders (43.2 vs 84.8/100 person‐month, log‐rank P = 0.13). Those non‐responders with a high MICA level (>100 pg/mL) carried the lowest cancer‐free survival than those non‐responders with a low MICA level and those responders (P = 0.002). Cox regression hazard analysis showed high baseline MICA level (Odds ratio [OR] = 4.8, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.1–20.8, P = 0.04) and a low platelet count (<100 000/mm3) (OR = 5.4, 95% CI = 1.1–27.0, P = 0.04) predicted HCC recurrence.

Conclusions:

PegIFN/RBV therapy carried a limited effect in the tertiary prevention of HCC. A high MICA level predicted HCC recurrence, particularly among those non‐responders.
Distributions of colorectal cancer in two Chinese cities with contrasting colorectal cancer epidemiology
Authors: Leung Wai K , Chen Wei‐Qing , Gu Li , Long Dan , Law W L
Published: June 2015

Background and Aim

The incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) is rising rapidly in Chinese. We studied the anatomic distributions and characteristics of CRC in Hong Kong (HK) and Chongqing (CQ) with different CRC epidemiology.

Methods

It was a retrospective study conducted in three large regional hospitals of the two cities. We identified all patients newly diagnosed with CRC between 2003 and 2012. The distribution and characteristics of CRC of the two cities were compared.

Results

Of CRC, 3664 new cases were diagnosed within the study period. CRC was more common in men (>56%) in both cities. The mean age at diagnosis was significantly younger in CQ, the lower prevalence area, than in HK (62.1 vs 70.4 years; P < 0.001). Rectal cancer was the predominant (61.3%) cancer in CQ, but only 18% of cancers in HK were rectal cancer (P = 0.0001). Right‐sided colonic cancer, however, was more common in HK than CQ (27.2% vs 17.4%; P < 0.001). Women had more right‐sided colonic cancer than men in both cities (P < 0.002), and there was an age‐related increase in right‐sided colonic cancer in HK but not in CQ. Multivariate analysis showed that older age, female, and living in HK were independent risk factors associated with right‐sided colonic cancer.

Conclusions

There are significant differences in the distribution of CRC between HK and CQ. The discrepancy may be partly accounted by older population and an increase in proximal colonic cancer, particularly in women, in HK.