bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pathological diagnosis of pulmonary large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma by endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial needle aspiration
Authors: Inage Terunaga , Nakajima Takahiro , Fujiwara Taiki , Sakairi Yuichi , Wada Hironobu , Suzuki Hidemi , Iwata Takekazu , Chiyo Masako , Nakatani Yukio , Yoshino Ichiro
Published: December 2017

Background

Pulmonary large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) is a relatively rare subtype of lung malignancy. According to revised 2015 World Health Organization (WHO) criteria for the pathological diagnosis of LCNEC, neuroendocrine markers must be examined by immunohistochemistry. In this study, we reevaluated endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS‐TBNA) samples of patients previously diagnosed with LCNEC using the revised WHO criteria.

Methods

Clinical tissue samples that had been obtained by EBUS‐TBNA between January 2004 and December 2011, and that had been pathologically diagnosed as LCNEC according to the previous criteria, were reevaluated according to the revised WHO criteria.

Results

The records of 471 lung cancer patients with mediastinal or hilar lymph node metastasis diagnosed by EBUS‐TBNA were analyzed. Thirteen patients were diagnosed with LCNEC; one of which was diagnosed based on cytology alone because the histological material was insufficient for a histological examination. Among the 12 cases in which a histological examination was performed, nine were diagnosed with possible LCNEC based on neuroendocrine marker positivity, while three were diagnosed with suspected LCNEC because they did not meet the immunostaining criteria. The patient who was cytologically diagnosed was found to have non‐small cell carcinoma with neuroendocrine morphology.

Conclusion

LCNEC could be pathologically diagnosed based on 2015 WHO criteria using EBUS‐TBNA samples.
Noninvasive phase mapping of persistent atrial fibrillation in humans: Comparison with invasive catheter mapping
Authors: Metzner Andreas , Wissner Erik , Tsyganov Alexey , Kalinin Vitaly , Schlüter Michael , Lemes Christine , Mathew Shibu , Maurer Tilmann , Heeger Christian‐Hendrik , Reissmann Bruno , Ouyang Feifan , Revishvili Amiran , Kuck Karl‐Heinz
Published: December 2017

Background

A novel noninvasive epicardial and endocardial electrophysiology system (NEEES) to identify electrical rotors and focal activity in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) was recently introduced. Comparison of NEEES data with results from invasive mapping is lacking.

Methods

Six male patients (59 ± 11 years) with persistent AF underwent cardiac mapping with the NEEES, which included the creation of isopotential and phase maps. Then patients underwent catheter mapping using a PentaRay NAV catheter and the CARTO 3 system. Signals acquired by the catheter were analyzed by customized software that applied the same phase mapping algorithm as for the NEEES data.

Results

In all patients, noninvasive phase mapping revealed short‐lived electrical rotors occurring 1.8 ± 0.3 times per second and demonstrating 1–4 (mean 1.2 ± 0.6) rotation cycles. Most of these rotors (72.7%) aggregated in 2–3 anatomical clusters. In two patients, focal excitation from pulmonary veins was observed. Invasive catheter mapping in the dominant rotor aggregation sites and in the three control sites demonstrated the presence of electrical rotors with properties similar to noninvasively detected rotors. Spearman's correlation coefficient between rotor occurrence rate by noninvasive and invasive mapping was 0.97 (p < .0001). Mean rotors' cycle length at dominant aggregation sites, scores of their full rotations, and the proportion of rotors with clockwise rotation were not significantly different between the mapping modalities.

Conclusion

In patients with persistent AF, phase processing of unipolar electrograms recorded by catheter mapping could reproduce electrical rotors as characterized by NEEES‐based phase mapping.
Comparison of the predictive accuracy of four different ECG algorithms in identification of true ablation site for the idiopathic right ventricular outflow tract tachycardias
Authors: Selcuk Mehmet Timur , Balci Kevser Gülcihan , Maden Orhan , Selcuk Hatice , Vicdan Murat , Kalender Erol , Balci Mustafa Mücahit
Published: December 2017

Background

We aimed to investigate the accuracy of four algorithms in prediction of right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) tachycardias in patients who successfully underwent radiofrequency catheter ablation.

Methods

Four algorithms; two with easy‐applicability and having a memorable design (Dixit and Joshi), and two with more complex and detailed design (Ito and Zhang) were compared according to the predictive accuracy.

Results

Among 99 patients (mean age 36.5 ± 8.5 years, 39.4% male), there were 51 (51.5%) septal‐located and 48 (48.5%) free‐wall located RVOT tachycardia. Comparison of the predictive accuracy of the algorithms showed that Zhang (91.9%) was the best algorithm for prediction of either septal or free‐wall located tachycardia. The second best algorithm was the Ito (77.7%) compared to Dixit (75.8%) and Joshi (70.7%).

Conclusion

In patients with RVOT tachycardia, algorithms with a detailed design may predict the arrhythmia location better than the easy‐applicable algorithms.
Dietary protein level affects nutrient digestibility and ileal microbiota structure in growing pigs
Authors: Qiu Kai , Zhang Xin , Jiao Ning , Xu Doudou , Huang Caiyun , Wang Yubo , Yin Jingdong
Published: December 2017

This study aimed to determine whether dietary protein content influences pig health as indicated by ileal microbiota structure and coefficients of total tract apparent digestibility (CTTAD) of nutrients. Seventy‐two gilts, with an initial body weight of 29.9 ± 1.5 kg, were used in this 42‐day feeding study. Pigs were randomly allotted to one of three dietary treatments of corn‐soybean meal contained 14, 16 or 18% crude protein (CP). As dietary CP content decreased, the CTTAD of most essential amino acids (AAs), except for arginine and histidine, increased linearly, while those of most nonessential AAs decreased linearly. The concentration of total short‐chain fatty acids (SCFA) was higher in pigs fed the diet with 14% CP content than others. Ileal microbiota structure was changed by dietary treatments. In particular, at the phylum level, the relative abundance of Tenericutes in ileal digesta decreased as the dietary protein content reduced, while that of cyanobacteria increased. At the genus level, the relative abundance of Weeksella, Phaseolus acutifolius, Slackia, Sulfurimonas and Aerococcus showed significant differences among the three dietary treatments. In conclusion, ileal microbiota structure was changed by dietary protein content. Moderate reduction of protein intake can benefit gut health by enhancing the gut microbial fermentation and SCFA formation.
Characterization of adherence and persistence profile in a real‐life population of patients treated with adalimumab
Authors: Gendelman Omer , Weitzman Dahlia , Rosenberg Vered , Shalev Varda , Chodick Gabriel , Amital Howard
Published: December 2017

Aims

Published data on long‐term adherence and persistence with adalimumab (Humira®) in clinical practice are scarce and often limited to selected patient populations. This study assessed adherence with adalimumab across different indications and identified correlates and outcomes of poor adherence.

Methods

We analysed data originating from the electronic database of Maccabi Healthcare Services (MHS) that includes 2.1 million enrolees. We randomly selected patients with at least one dispense of adalimumab since it was included in the local health basket in Israel in 2008 until the end of 2013. Patients with the following indications (n = 1339) were included: Crohn's disease (CD), ulcerative colitis (UC), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PSA), ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and psoriasis. Adherence with therapy was assessed by the medication possession ratio (MPR) during the follow‐up period.

Results

Good adherence (MPR ≥ 80%) was observed among 80% of study patients and was associated with lower risk for ≥1 hospitalization per year of follow‐up (adjusted‐OR = 1.94, 95% CI:1.15–3.28). Patients with AS and CD persisted on adalimumab therapy the most, reaching median use of 27.0 and 26.7 months, respectively. Half (52.4%) of the patients discontinued treatment during a mean (SD) follow‐up of 3.07 (1.71) years. High socioeconomic status was associated with lower risk for discontinuation (adjusted‐HR = 0.74; 0.60–0.91). UC and concomitant prednisolone use were associated with increased risk for treatment discontinuation (HR = 1.31; 1.00–1.72, and HR = 1.40; 1.17–1.68, respectively).

Conclusion

Our results indicate encouraging persistence and adherence with adalimumab of patients with inflammatory conditions.
Population exposure–safety analysis of cediranib for Phase I and II studies in patients with cancer
Authors: Al‐Huniti Nidal , Petersson Klas , Tang Weifeng , Masson Eric , Li Jianguo
Published: December 2017

Aims

A multistudy analysis of cediranib, a potent, selective inhibitor of all three vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFR‐1, ‐2 and ‐3), was conducted to establish population exposure–safety models for the relationship of cediranib exposure to the safety endpoints, diastolic and systolic blood pressure (DBP and SBP) and diarrhoea in cancer patients. These models were applied to predict safety outcomes for different cediranib dose regimens.

Methods

Models for hypertension and diarrhoea were constructed based on data from 10 Phase I and three Phase II studies comprising 631 cancer patients following cediranib once‐daily oral dosing. Daily DBP and SBP were simultaneously characterized using indirect response models for predicted cediranib concentration–time courses, while daily diarrhoea events were modelled as ordered categorical variables with a proportional odds model with a Markov element for predicted average cediranib concentrations.

Results

For 20 mg cediranib once‐daily oral administration, the mean increase in DBP and SBP was predicted to be 7 (95% CI 3–13) and 8 mmHg (95% CI 3–16), respectively, while the probability of mild diarrhoea, but not the severity, was predicted to increase over time. Severe diarrhoea was predicted to be resolved rapidly upon discontinuation of cediranib treatment.

Conclusions

Maximum blood pressure increase was observed within the first few days of cediranib treatment, consistent with the pharmacokinetic profile of cediranib reaching steady state in about 5 days. The probability of diarrhoea increased with cediranib concentration but was far more dependent on the status of diarrhoea predicted on the previous day.
‘Very‐low‐risk’ bladder tumours – a new entity?
Authors: Gofrit Ofer N. , Pode Dov , Pizov Galina , Duvdevani Mordechai , Landau Ezekiel H. , Hidas Guy , Yutkin Vladimir
Published: December 2017

Objective

To evaluate the homogeneity of the ‘low‐risk’ bladder cancer group in an attempt to optimise follow‐up protocols.

Patients and Methods

Between June 1998 and December 2008, 211 patients (mean [sd] age of 66.7 [12.8] years) underwent transurethral resection of low‐risk bladder cancer. Postoperative follow‐up included cystoscopy at 3 and 12 months after surgery, then annually for a total of 5 years, and then annual ultrasonography indefinitely.

Results

After a median follow‐up of 10 years, 65 patients (30.7%) developed tumour recurrence and three (1.4%) stage progressions. In all, 84 patients (40%) had tumours of ≤1 cm; these patients were significantly younger than patients with 1.1–3 cm tumours (64.6 vs 68.3 years, P = 0.03). Their 5‐year recurrence‐free survival rate was significantly higher (92% vs 70% in patients with larger tumours, P < 0.001). The median time to recurrence was 5.7 years in patients with smaller tumours and 3.6 years in patients with larger tumours (P = 0.03). Only 43.7% of the recurrences in patients with small tumours occurred within 5 years, compared to 75.5% in patients with larger tumours.

Conclusions

Patients with low‐risk bladder cancer make an inhomogeneous group. They can be stratified according to tumour size. Patients with tumours of ≤1 cm are younger, have lower risk of tumour recurrence, and most of their recurrences arise beyond the recommended 5‐year surveillance period. It seems that these patients can be classified separately to a ‘very‐low‐risk’ group. Follow‐up in these cases can be based on prolonged non‐invasive evaluations.
Acquired resistance of phosphatase and tensin homolog‐deficient cells to poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase inhibitor and Ara‐C mediated by 53BP1 loss and SAMHD1 overexpression
Authors: Wang Yu‐Ting , Yuan Bo , Chen Hua‐Dong , Xu Lin , Tian Yu‐Nan , Zhang Ao , He Jin‐Xue , Miao Ze‐Hong
Published: December 2017

With increasing uses of poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors (PARPi) for cancer therapy, understanding their resistance is becoming urgent. However, acquired PARPi resistance in the phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN)‐deficient background is poorly understood. We generated 3 PARPi‐resistant PTEN‐deficient glioblastoma U251 variants separately with olaparib (U251/OP), talazoparib (U251/TP) and simmiparib (U251/SP). These variants displayed consistent resistance (2.46‐71.78‐fold) to all 5 PARPi, including niraparib and rucaparib, and showed higher degrees of resistance to the PARPi to which the parental cells were more sensitive. The resistance was characteristic of fast emergence and high stability. However, the resistance acquirement did not cause an increasingly aggressive phenotype. The resistance was not correlated to various factors, including PTEN mutations. The PARPi‐treated variants produced less γH2AX and G2/M arrest. Consistently, loss of 53BP1 occurred in all variants and its compensation enhanced their sensitivity to PARPi by approximately 76%. The variants revealed slightly different cross‐resistance profiles to 13 non‐PARPi anticancer drugs. All were resistant to Ara‐C (6‐8‐fold) but showed differential resistance to 5‐fluorouracil, gemcitabine and paclitaxel. Almost no resistance was observed to the rest drugs, including cisplatin. SAMHD1 was overexpressed in all the variants and its knockout completely restored their sensitivity to Ara‐C but did not affect their PARPi sensitivity. The present study demonstrates a consistent resistance profile to PARPi and a unique cross‐resistance profile to non‐PARPi drugs in different PARPi‐resistant U251 cells and reveals 53BP1 loss and SAMHD1 overexpression as the primary mechanisms responsible for their resistance to PARPi and Ara‐C, respectively. These effects probably result from heritable gene change(s) caused by persistent PARPi exposure.
Shorter preschool, leukocyte telomere length is associated with obesity at age 9 in Latino children
Authors: Kjaer T. W. , Faurholt‐Jepsen D. , Mehta K.M. , Christensen V. B. , Epel E. , Lin J. , Blackburn E. , Wojcicki J. M.
Published: December 2017

The aim of this study was to determine the potential role of leukocyte telomere length as a biomarker for development of childhood obesity in a low‐income Latino population. A birth cohort of Latino children (N = 201) in San Francisco (recruited May 2006–May 2007) was followed until age 9 and assessed annually for obesity and dietary intake. Leukocyte telomere length was measured at 4 and 5 years (n = 102) and assessed as a predictor for obesity at age 9, adjusting for known risk factors. Furthermore, leukocyte telomere length at age 4 and 5 was evaluated as a possible mediator of the relationship between excessive sugar‐sweetened beverage consumption and obesity at age 9. Shorter leukocyte telomere length in preschoolers was associated with obesity at age 9 (adjusted odds ratio 0.35, 95% confidence interval 0.13–0.94) after adjustment for known risk factors. Telomere length mediated 11% of the relationship between excessive sugar‐sweetened beverage consumption and obesity. Shorter leukocyte telomere length may be an indicator of future obesity risk in high‐risk populations as it is particularly sensitive to damage from oxidative stress exposure, including those from sugar‐sweetened beverages.
Bigger or better: The relative benefits of protected area network expansion and enforcement for the conservation of an exploited species
Authors: Kuempel Caitlin D. , Adams Vanessa M. , Possingham Hugh P. , Bode Michael
Published: December 2017

The global portfolio of protected areas is growing rapidly, despite widely recognized shortfalls in management effectiveness. Pressure to meet area‐coverage and management effectiveness objectives makes it essential to determine how limited conservation funds should be allocated between expanding protected area networks and better enforcing existing reserves. We formally explore this question for the particular case of an exploited species in a partially protected system, using a general model linking protection, enforcement and legal/illegal resource extraction. We show that, on average, funds should be disproportionately invested in enforcement rather than expansion. Further, expansion alone, without additional enforcement, can actually reduce conservation outcomes. To help guide future decisions, we calculate the optimal allocation of resources between these two actions given any current level of enforcement and protected area coverage. In most cases, simultaneously investing in expansion and enforcement is the optimal decision. However, in places with low enforcement and high protection, protected area contraction, or strategically concentrating enforcement effort, produces the greatest benefits.
Left ventricular outflow tract shape after aortic valve replacement with St. Jude Trifecta prosthesis
Authors: Barletta Giuseppe , Venditti Francesco , Stefano Pierluigi , Del Bene Riccarda , Di Mario Carlo
Published: December 2017

Background

Aortic prosthesis area (EOA) is computed by continuity equation from left ventricular (LV) stroke volume (SV) derived from LV outflow tract diameter (LVOTD) or, when unmeasurable, from LV volumes (SVV). There is evidence to suggest LVOT ellipticity and recommend 3D LVOT area (LVOTCSA) adoption in aortic stenosis. We sought to evaluate if the same concept applies to supra‐annular aortic prosthesis comparing SV and EOA derived from LVOTD (EOAD) and from LVOTCSA (EOACSA). EOA computed from SVV (EAOV) accuracy was evaluated in this setting. Patient‐prosthesis mismatch (PPM) was compared among different EOA computations.

Methods

A consecutive series of 202 patients (aged 81 ± 4 years, 43% males) underwent St.Jude Trifecta aortic valve replacement (AVR) and were followed up with echocardiography at one‐year (335 ± 31 days). All measurements followed the EACVI or ASE guidelines, 3D X‐plane modality was used to compute SVv and measure LVOTCSA; SV was calculated from LVOTD (SVD) and LVOTCSA (SVCSA). PPM was indexed EOA <0.65 cm²/m².

Results

LVOT showed a significant ellipticity index (1.17 ± .27), independent of prosthesis size. EOAD (1.70 ± 0.55 cm²) was less than EOACSA (1.95 ± 0.62 cm²) (P < .0001). SVV was significantly lower than SVD and SVCSA. Bland–Altman analysis showed a significant correlation between SVV and SVD or SVCSA although with large bias and imprecision. The correlations improved reducing bias and imprecision when LVOT time–velocity integral was <20 cm. PPM incidence was higher in EOAV (15.6%) compared to EOAD(P = .04) or EOACSA(P < .001).

Conclusions

In supra‐annular AVR, LVOT retains its elliptical shape and LVOTCSA yielded larger prosthesis EOA with lower PPM incidence. PPM may be overestimated by EOAV.
Habitat preferences and spring temperature‐related abundance of German wasp Vespula germanica in its northern range
Authors: Sorvari Jouni
Published: December 2017

Global climate change causes range shifts in many insects. Urban areas and south‐facing slopes may provide a warmer environment for newcomers adapted to warmer climatic conditions. The German wasp (Vespula germanica, Fabricius, 1793), which is native to central and southern Europe, has been expanding its range into Southern Finland since 2001.

The association between the German wasp and its sister species, the common wasp (V. vulgaris Linnaeus, 1758), with urban areas was studied in three cities in Finland. In addition, the numbers of German wasp catches during 7 years on south‐ and north‐facing riverbank slopes in SW‐Finland were compared and the association with spring temperature was analysed.

The newcomer German wasp seemed to be associated with urban areas, while its sister species was associated with rural areas in two of the cities and urban areas in one of the three studied cities. In addition, the German wasp was more common in south‐facing than in north‐facing slopes of the river valley, while the direction of the slope was less important for the common wasp. Finally, the abundance of the German wasp but not the common wasp has increased with an increase in spring temperature.

The preference of the German wasp for urban habitats and south‐facing slopes in Finland may be because those habitats are usually warmer than their surroundings and the species is well adapted for urban environments. These environments can act as stepping stones in species’ range shifts driven by climate change.
Changes of the cell surface hydrophobicity of Lactobacillus acidophilus La‐5 in response to pH, temperature and inulin
Authors: Bevilacqua Antonio , Petruzzi Leonardo , Speranza Barbara , Campaniello Daniela , Sinigaglia Milena , Corbo Maria Rosaria
Published: December 2017

The main topic of this study was to study how cell surface hydrophobicity (CSH) could change in response to pH, temperature and inulin; Lactobacillus acidophilus La‐5 was used as a model microorganism. pH, temperature, inulin and incubation time (exposure to prebiotic or incubation at pH 4.0 and 9.0) were combined through a full factorial design and a Central Composite Design; the results were analysed using a multifactorial anova (first step) and a stepwise regression (second step). Temperature and pH significantly affected CSH: an increase in the temperature determined a significant increase in CSH, whereas the correlation pH vs. CSH was negative, as an increase in pH caused a significant decrease in CSH. Inulin played a significant role, but its effect could be influenced by temperature, pH and exposure time. This study is the first approach on the effects of some environmental factors on CSH and suggests that the culturing conditions and/or the exposure to some prebiotics could modify it with positive or negative effects.
Study on retrogradation of maize starch–flaxseed gum mixture under various storage temperatures
Authors: Feng Meiqin , Yang Xue , Sun Jian , Xu Xinglian , Zhou Guanghong
Published: December 2017

This study aimed to investigate the effect of flaxseed gum (FG) on the retrogradation of maize starch (MS) gels under different storage temperatures. In this work, MS‐FG gels with 0–0.4% FG were stored under different temperatures (–20, 4 and 20 °C). Under all storage temperatures, the addition of FG inhibited the retrogradation process of MS, suppressed the recrystallisation of starch molecules, reduced the water loss of starch gels and improved the texture of the gels. Among the three storage temperatures, −20 °C could almost stop the starch retrogradation but leading it results in the hardest gel texture. The retrogradation of MS‐FG gels stored under 4 °C was most serious with the fastest rate of recrystallisation. When stored at 20 °C, the gels had a retrogradation degree that was lower than when they were stored at 4 °C and also had the softest texture.
A soluble inorganic pyrophosphatase from the cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus capable of hydrolysing polyphosphates
Authors: Cruz C. S. , Costa E. P. , Machado J. A. , Silva J. N. , Romeiro N. C. , Moraes J. , Silva J. R. , Fonseca R. N. , Vaz I. S. , Logullo C. , Campos E.
Published: December 2017

Polyphosphates have been found in all cell types examined to date and play diverse roles depending on the cell type. In eukaryotic organisms, polyphosphates have been investigated mainly in mammalian cells, and only a few studies have addressed arthropods. Pyrophosphatases have been shown to regulate polyphosphate metabolism. However, these studies were restricted to trypanosomatids. Here we focus on the tick Rhipicephalus microplus, a haematophagous ectoparasite that is highly harmful to cattle. We produced a recombinant R. microplus pyrophosphatase (rRmPPase) with the aim of investigating its kinetic parameters using polyphosphates as substrate. Molecular docking assays of RmPPase with polyphosphates were also carried out. The kinetic and Hill coefficient parameters indicated that rRmPPase has a greater affinity, higher catalytic efficiency and increased cooperativity for sodium phosphate glass type 15 (polyP15) than for sodium tripolyphosphate (polyP3). Through molecular docking, we found that polyP3 binds close to the Mg2+ atoms in the catalytic region of the protein, participating in their coordination network, whereas polyP15 interactions involve negatively charged phosphate groups and basic amino acid residues, such as Lys56, Arg58 and Lys193; polyP15 has a more favourable theoretical binding affinity than polyP3, thus supporting the kinetic data. This study shows, for the first time in arthropods, a pyrophosphatase with polyphosphatase activity, suggesting its participation in polyphosphate metabolism.
Dialectical beliefs and savings tendency: Opposite patterns in good versus bad current status
Authors: Li Liman Man Wai
Published: December 2017

People often experience a dilemma: whether we should invest now for a better future or save now for an unexpected future. The current research investigated the influence of dialecticism, a constellation of lay beliefs stating that the world is full of constant changes, coexisting contradictions, and interdependent relationships, on people's savings tendencies when they are with good versus bad status. Study 1 verified that dialectical beliefs were negatively associated with optimistic expectations among people with good status (i.e., high socioeconomic status) but positively associated with optimistic expectations among people with bad status (i.e., low socioeconomic status). Next, Studies 2 and 3 examined the interaction effect between dialectical beliefs and people's current status in predicting their savings tendencies in the investment scenarios with the focus on savings decision‐making and emotional experiences related to savings scenarios, respectively. Finally, to test generalizability, Study 4 examined people's savings tendencies in the situation that they needed to prevent failure instead of doing investments. The results converged to support the hypothesis that stronger dialectical beliefs predicted greater savings tendencies among people with good current status but weaker savings tendencies among people with bad current status. These findings demonstrated that the effect of dialectical beliefs on savings tendencies varies as a function of the characteristics of the situations, which advances the theoretical understanding of dialecticism in decision‐making research.
THE EFFECTS OF BIG BATHS ON BANK OPACITY
Authors: Haggard K. Stephen , Howe John S. , Lynch Andrew A.
Published: December 2017

Information asymmetry in the banking sector is important to regulators, analysts, and investors. We examine the change in the information environments of banks following large nonrecurring write‐downs (baths) and find a reduction in information asymmetry in the three years following a bath. This result is conditional on the type of asset being written down. Loan‐related baths result in a permanent decrease in information asymmetry, but merger‐related baths are associated with a transitory increase in information asymmetry. Conversely, baths not related to either loans or mergers result in increased opacity. Consistent with a permanent decrease in information asymmetry, we find an increase in earnings responsiveness in the three years following loan‐related baths.
BANK FAILURES UNDER MANAGERIAL AND REGULATORY INEFFICIENCY: THREE DECADES OF EVIDENCE FROM TURKEY
Authors: Isik Ihsan , Folkinshteyn Daniel
Published: December 2017

Drawing on a comprehensive data set from Turkey (1970–2003) and using both nonparametric (data envelopment analysis) and parametric (stochastic frontier analysis) frontier methods, we estimate 16 alternative efficiency measures to study their associations with the probability of bank failures in an emerging market setting. We find that failed banks severely underperform survived banks in all forms of efficiency and that their subpar performance deteriorates closer to failure, prosperous times and bloated scales tend to precede eventual banking fatalities, managerially induced (technical) inefficiencies dominate politically induced (allocative) inefficiencies in failed banks, and banks with new ownership and affiliation with other businesses are more likely to fail. The results also caution that liquidity, capital, and currency risks combined with poor management are a lethal mix ahead of crises.
Child healthcare nurses’ experiences of asking new mothers about intimate partner violence
Authors: Anderzen‐Carlsson Agneta , Gillå Cristina , Lind Maria , Almqvist Kjerstin , Lindgren Fändriks Anna , Källström Åsa
Published: December 2017

Aims and objectives

To investigate child healthcare nurses’ experiences of asking mothers of 8‐month‐old children about intimate partner violence using a two‐step questionnaire.

Background

Exposure to intimate partner violence is detrimental to women and to their children, and its early detection is vital. Child health care is a promising setting for detecting intimate partner violence.

Design

The overall project had a quasi‐experimental design and was employed in 2015 at 12 child healthcare centres in Sweden. The project aimed to test a two‐step method for talking about intimate partner violence with mothers (n = 198) at the child healthcare centre. In this article, we disclose the experiences of the intervention from the perspective of the nurses (n = 13) who were educated and involved in the intervention.

Methods

Data were collected by semi‐structured interviews, analysed by thematic analysis.

Results

Five categories emerged: using the two‐step questionnaire method, asking about IPV as an important issue, being comfortable in the professional role and with asking about IPV, the importance of time and place in asking about IPV and spillover effects.

Conclusions

Asking mothers visiting the child health clinic about their experiences of intimate partner violence was seen as an important task. Using a questionnaire could facilitate asking, but the questionnaire must be short and easy to use. Furthermore, the time and place for initiating a talk about this sensitive topic must be carefully chosen.

Relevance to clinical practice

The Violence in Families questionnaire was regarded as a useful tool and could thus be implemented in practice. However, it is important to offer education to the nurses prior to implementing a routine of asking about intimate partner violence in the child healthcare setting.
Absence of BRAFV600E mutation in odontogenic keratocysts
Authors: França Josiane Alves , de Sousa Sílvia Ferreira , Diniz Marina Gonçalves , Pereira Thaís dos Santos Fontes , de Resende Taynara Asevedo Campos , Santos Jean Nunes dos , Gomez Ricardo Santiago , Gomes Carolina Cavalieri
Published: December 2017

Background

Mutations in the patched 1 (PTCH1) gene are the main genetic alteration reported in sporadic and nevoid basal cell carcinoma‐associated odontogenic keratocyst (OKC). Oncogenic mutations, including BRAFV600E, previously considered exclusive of malignant neoplasms have been reported in odontogenic tumors. Recently, a high frequency of BRAFV600E mutation has been reported in OKC. Because of the considerable recurrence rate of OKC, the identification of druggable genetic mutations can be relevant in the management of extensive lesions.

Methods

A set of 28 OKCs was included in this work. Initially, 10 sporadic and eight OKC samples from four NBCCS patients (a pair of lesions from each syndromic patient) were submitted to targeted next‐generation sequencing (NGS) of 2800 different mutations in 50 oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, including BRAF. Ten extra sporadic OKC samples were included to assess BRAFV600E mutation using TaqMan allele‐specific qPCR.

Results

The following missense mutations occurred in one case each: ATM p.Ser333Phe, SMO p.Gly416Glu, PIK3CA p.Ser326Phe, FBXW7 p.Ser438Phe, JAK2 p.Ser605Phe, PTEN p.Arg173His, ATM p.Cys353Arg, PTEN p.Ser294Arg, MET p.His1112Tyr. None of the 18 samples showed the BRAFV600E (or any other V600) mutation in the NGS. BRAFV600E mutation was detected by qPCR in one of the 10 OKC. Collectively, our results show BRAFV600E mutation in 1 of 28 OKC cases.

Conclusion

On the basis of our results, OKCs do not present recurrent hotspot mutations in these 50 genes commonly mutated in cancer. In addition, BRAFV600E does not play a central role in OKC pathogenesis.
Boreal bog plant communities along a water table gradient differ in their standing biomass but not their biomass production
Authors: Korrensalo Aino , Kettunen Laura , Laiho Raija , Alekseychik Pavel , Vesala Timo , Mammarella Ivan , Tuittila Eeva‐Stiina
Published: December 2017

Question

Peatlands are globally important for carbon storage due to the imbalance between plant biomass production and decomposition. Distribution of both live standing biomass (BM, dry mass g/m2) and biomass production (BMP, dry mass g m−2 growing season−1) are known to be dependent on the water table (WT). However, the relations of BM and BMP to WT variation are poorly known. Here we investigated, how the above‐ and below‐ground BM and BMP of three different plant functional types (PFTs), dwarf shrubs, sedges and Sphagnum mosses, relate to natural WT variation within an ombrotrophic boreal bog. In addition, we estimated ecosystem‐level BMP and compared that with ecosystem net primary production (NPP) derived from eddy covariance (EC) measurements.

Location

Siikaneva bog, Ruovesi, Finland.

Methods

We quantified above‐ and below‐ground BM and BMP of PFTs along the WT gradient, divided into six plant community types. Plant community scale BM and BMP were up‐scaled to the ecosystem level. NPP was derived from EC measurements using a literature‐based ratio of heterotrophic respiration to total ecosystem respiration.

Results

BM varied from 211 to 979 g/m2 among the plant community types, decreasing gradually from dry to wet community types. In contrast, BMP was similar between plant community types (162–216 g/m2), except on nearly vegetation‐free bare peat surfaces where it was low (38 g/m2). Vascular plant BM turnover rate (BMP:BM, per year) varied from 0.14 to 0.30 among the plant community types, being highest in sedge‐dominated hollows. On average 56% of the vascular BM was produced below ground. Mosses, when present, produced on average 31% of the total BM, ranging from 16% to 53% depending on community type. EC‐derived NPP was higher than measured BMP due to underestimation of certain components.

Conclusions

We found that the diversity of PFTs decreases the spatial variability in productivity of a boreal bog ecosystem. The observed even distribution of BMP resulted from different WT optima and BMP:BM of dwarf shrubs, sedges and Sphagnum species. These differences in biomass turnover rate and species responses to environmental conditions may provide a resilience mechanism for bog ecosystems in changing conditions.
sRNA41 affects ribosome binding sites within polycistronic mRNAs in Methanosarcina mazei Gö1
Authors: Buddeweg Anne , Sharma Kundan , Urlaub Henning , Schmitz Ruth A.
Published: December 2017

Several noncoding RNAs potentially involved in nitrogen (N)‐regulation have been detected in Methanosarcina mazei, however, targets have been identified only for one of them. Here, we report on the function of sRNA41, highly expressed under N‐sufficiency. Comprising 120 nucleotides, sRNA41 shows high sequence and structural conservation within draft genomes of numerous Methanosarcina species. In silico target prediction revealed several potential targets, including genes of two homologous operons encoding for acetyl‐CoA‐decarbonylase/synthase complexes (ACDS) representing highly probable target candidates. A highly conserved single stranded region of sRNA41 was predicted to mask six independent ribosome binding sites of these two polycistronic mRNAs and was verified in vitro by microscale thermophoresis. Proteome analysis of the respective sRNA41‐deletion mutant showed increased protein expression of both ACDS complexes in the absence of sRNA41, whereas no effect on transcript levels was detected, arguing for sRNA41‐mediated post‐transcriptional fine‐tuning of ACDS expression. We hypothesize that the physiological advantage of downregulating sRNA41 under N‐limiting conditions is the resulting increase of ACDS protein levels. This provides sufficient amounts of amino acids for nitrogenase synthesis as well as reducing equivalents and energy for N2‐fixation, thus linking the carbon and N‐metabolism.
Microsites of seed arrival: spatio–temporal variations in complex seed‐disperser networks
Authors: García‐Cervigón Ana I. , Żywiec Magdalena , Delibes Miguel , Suárez-Esteban Alberto , Perea Ramón , Fedriani José M.
Published: December 2017

Microsites where seeds arrive during the dispersal process determine plant reproductive success, affecting the quality of dispersal. Despite their crucial role for plant recruitment, very few studies have addressed spatio–temporal variations in microsites of seed arrival in complex seed‐disperser networks. Using an endozoochorous dispersal system, we characterized the microsites of seed arrival of eight fleshy‐fruited plant species dispersed by five mammal species during two consecutive seasons across three sites in a Mediterranean environment (n = 383 feces with seeds; 261 453 seeds). We evaluated spatial and temporal variations in the probability of a seed to arrive at open microsites or at microsites with varying plant cover, considering selection by frugivores and assessing the extent to which seeds of particular species arrived under conspecifics or heterospecifics. We found strong spatio–temporal variations in the amounts of seeds of the eight target species arriving at different microsites. These variations were strongly driven by frugivores’ selection of different landscape elements (i.e. open areas and microsites dominated by different plant species), which differed from expectations based on their local availability. In general, more seeds than expected arrived at vacant (open) microsites. Using bipartite network graphs to connect seeds with their arrival microsites, we found that the proportion of seeds of fleshy‐fruited species arriving near conspecifics or heterospecifics, or at vacant microsites, varied depending on the target plant species, but also on the frugivore species dispersing it, on the study site and on the dispersal season. Our study revealed marked spatio–temporal variations in the microsites of seed arrival, which will potentially have implications for the quality of dispersal effectiveness, ultimately affecting plant population dynamics and community structure. Such a strong context‐dependence in the microsites of seed arrival is likely to confer resilience against unpredictable environmental conditions, like those typical of Mediterranean ecosystems.
Effect of age on Narcotrend Index monitoring during sevoflurane anesthesia in children below 2 years of age
Authors: Dennhardt Nils , Arndt Stefanie , Beck Christiane , Boethig Dietmar , Heiderich Sebastian , Schultz Barbara , Weber Frank , Sümpelmann Robert
Published: December 2017

Background

In older children, different electroencephalogram‐based algorithms for measuring depth of anesthesia displayed a similar performance as in adults, but in infants they have not displayed the same reliability so far. According to the individual developmental state, the Narcotrend distinguishes “differentiated” electroencephalograms, which can be classified using the full Narcotrend Index scale, from “undifferentiated” electroencephalograms, which are classified using a scale with fewer stages.

Objective

The objective of this prospective clinical observational study was to assess the feasibility and performance of the Narcotrend monitor in children <2 years within a clinical setting.

Methods

Sixty‐one children aged 0‐24 months undergoing general anesthesia with sevoflurane and remifentanil for elective pediatric surgery were studied. We investigated the percentage of differentiated electroencephalograms and the correlation between multiples of minimal alveolar sevoflurane concentration and the Narcotrend Index according to age groups. Prediction probability was used to evaluate the performance of the Narcotrend Index for differentiation between consciousness and unconsciousness and between different sevoflurane concentrations.

Results

The percentage of differentiated electroencephalograms increased with increasing age (0‐3 months: 23.8%, 4‐5 months: 87.5%, 6‐11 months: 92.3%, 12‐24 months: 100%). The overall prediction probability of Narcotrend Index was 1.0 (SE 0.05) for differentiation between awake and loss of consciousness and 1.0 (SE 0.01) for differentiation between anesthetized and return of consciousness. Spearman correlation analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between sevoflurane concentration and the Narcotrend Index (r = −0.78, P < .0001, 95%CI: −0.81 to −0.74). Overall prediction probability of Narcotrend Index to sevoflurane concentration was 0.8 (95%CI: 0.78‐0.82).

Conclusion

The Narcotrend monitor indicated a Narcotrend Index in most infants and young children starting from 4 months with significant correlation to and acceptable prediction probability for minimal alveolar sevoflurane concentration.
Effects of Photobiomodulation on SOFAT, A T‐cell‐derived Cytokine, May Explain Accelerated Orthodontic Tooth Movement
Authors: Jettar Viviane , Napimoga Marcelo H. , Freitas Fabiana , Clemente‐Napimoga Juliana T. , Suzuki Selly S. , Montalli Victor A. , Garcez Aguinaldo S.
Published: December 2017

Orthodontic tooth movement is based on mechanical forces inducing bone remodeling, and several methods have been proposed to increase tooth movement, including photobiomodulation. This study evaluated, in an animal model, the effects of photobiomodulation on SOFAT—a secreted osteoclastogenic factor of activated T cells and RANK‐L during tooth movement. The results showed that tooth displacement, RANK‐L and SOFAT levels were significantly greater compared to Control group. SOFAT may play an important role in bone remodeling during orthodontic movement, possibly increasing the osteoclast cells at the compression area and bone remodeling activity.
Maximal shortening velocity during plantar flexion: Effects of pre‐activity and initial stretching state
Authors: Beaumatin N. , Hauraix H. , Nordez A. , Hager R. , Rabita G. , Guilhem G. , Dorel S.
Published: December 2017

We investigated the effects of the initial length of the muscle‐tendon unit (MTU) and muscle pre‐activation on muscle‐tendon interactions during plantarflexion performed at maximal velocity. Ultrasound images of gastrocnemius medialis were obtained on 11 participants in three conditions: (a) active plantarflexion performed at maximal velocity from three increasingly stretched positions (10°, 20°, and 30° dorsiflexion), (b) passive plantarflexion induced by a quick release of the ankle joint from the same three positions, and (c) pre‐activation, which consisted of a maximal isometric contraction of the plantarflexors at 10° of dorsiflexion followed by a quick release of ankle joint. During the active condition at maximal velocity, initial MTU stretch positively influenced ankle joint velocity (+15.3%) and tendinous tissues shortening velocity (+37.6%) but not the shortening velocity peak value reached by muscle fascicle. The muscle fascicle was shortened during the passive condition; however, its shortening velocity never exceeded peak velocity measured in the active condition. Muscle pre‐activation resulted in a considerable increase in ankle joint (+114.7%) and tendinous tissues velocities (+239.1%), although we observed a decrease in muscle fascicle shortening velocity. During active plantarflexion at maximal velocity, initial MTU length positively influences ankle joint velocity by increasing the contribution of tendinous tissues. Although greater initial stretch of the plantarflexors (ie, 30° dorsiflexion) increased the passive velocity of the fascicle during initial movement, its peak velocity was not affected. As muscle pre‐activation prevented reaching the maximal muscle fascicle shortening velocity, this condition should be used to characterize tendinous tissues rather than muscle contractile properties.
Computed tomographic contrast tenography of the digital flexor tendon sheath of the equine hindlimb
Authors: Agass Rachel , Dixon Jonathon , Fraser Barny
Published: December 2017

Pre‐surgical investigation of digital flexor tendon sheath pathology remains challenging with current standard imaging techniques. The aim of this prospective, anatomical, pilot study was to describe the anatomy of the equine hind limb digital flexor tendon sheath using a combination of computed tomography (CT) and computed tomographic contrast tenography in clinically normal cadaver limbs. Ten pairs of hind limbs with no external abnormalities were examined from the level of the tarsometatarsal joint distally. Limbs initially underwent non‐contrast CT examination using 120 kVp, 300 mAs, and 1.5 mm slice thickness. Sixty millilitres of ioversol iodinated contrast media and saline (final concentration 100 mg/ml) were injected using a basilar sesamoidean approach. The computed tomographic contrast tenography examination was then repeated, before dissection of the specimens to compare gross and imaging findings. The combined CT and computed tomographic contrast tenography examinations provided excellent anatomical detail of intra‐thecal structures. The borders of the superficial and deep digital flexor tendons, and the manica flexoria were consistently identifiable in all limbs. Detailed anatomy including that of the mesotenons, two of which are previously undescribed, and the plantar annular ligament were also consistently identifiable. Dissection of all 10 pairs of limbs revealed there to be no pathology, in accordance with the imaging findings. In conclusion, the combination of CT and computed tomographic contrast tenography may be useful adjunctive diagnostic techniques to define digital flexor tendon sheath pathology prior to surgical exploration in horses.
Bovine and porcine large intestine as model epithelia in a student lab course.
Authors: Hegel U , Fromm M , Kreusel K M , Wiederholt M
Published: December 2017

A short-circuit current experiment on epithelial ion transport is described that is suitable for student classes in human and animal physiology. Segments of late distal colon from either pig or cow are obtained from the slaughterhouse depending on the animals' daily schedule. Initial tissue preparation already in the slaughterhouse, cold storage, and proper choice of bath solutions are essential prerequisites for success. Students monitor spontaneous transepithelial voltage and short-circuit current (Isc) by use of manually operated voltage clamp units. Two main transport mechanisms are studied, electrogenic Na+ absorption and Cl- secretion. Electrogenic Na+ absorption is studied by measuring the Isc drop after amiloride. Then Cl- secretion is stimulated by theophylline and subsequently inhibited by furosemide. In some experiments K+ secretion can be detected by the blocking effect of mucosal Ba2+. Response of tissues from pig and cow is qualitatively similar but quantitatively different. The equipment is sturdy and inexpensive, can be provided by most departmental workshops, and has been tested for 3 yr in regular lab courses. Observations made during these experiments are closely related to clinical states, such as secretory diarrhea, cystic fibrosis, and hyperaldosteronism, as well as to the mechanisms of clinically used diuretics.