bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of biologics on depressive symptoms in patients with psoriasis: a systematic review
Authors: Fleming P. , Roubille C. , Richer V. , Starnino T. , McCourt C. , McFarlane A. , Siu S. , Kraft J. , Lynde C. , Pope J.E. , Keeling S. , Dutz J. , Bessette L. , Bissonnette R. , Haraoui B. , Gulliver W.P.
Published: December 2014

Background

Twenty to fifty percent of patients with psoriasis have depressive symptoms.

Objective

To describe the effects of biologics (tumour necrosis factor inhibitors [TNFi] or interleukin 12/23 inhibitors [IL‐12/23i]) on depressive symptoms in patients with psoriasis.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the effects of biologics on depressive symptoms in adults with psoriasis.

Results

Of the 305 publications identified, three RCTs were included in a systematic review. In a trial evaluating ustekinumab, mean change in Hospital and Anxiety Depression Rating Scale at 24 weeks from baseline was 3.1 with ustekinumab (P < 0.001) vs. 0.21 with placebo (not significant). In a trial evaluating adalimumab, mean change in Zung Self‐Rating Depression Scale at 12 weeks from baseline was −6.7 with adalimumab vs. −1.5 with placebo. In a trial evaluating etanercept, the between‐group difference at 12 weeks in Beck Depression Inventory Scale was 1.8 (95% CI: 0.6, 2.90) in favour of etanercept over placebo. Limitations are that diagnostic criteria for depression were not used and scales and data from individual RCTs could not be combined.

Conclusion

Adalimumab, etanercept and ustekinumab were associated with statistically significant reductions in depressive symptom scores using various scales in patients with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis.
Large moths captures by a pest monitoring system depend on farmland heterogeneity
Authors: Novotný D. , Zapletal M. , Kepka P. , Beneš J. , Konvička M.
Published: December 2014

As intensive farmlands cover increasing areas of the world, associated biotic richness is crucial for the biodiversity of entire regions. Using data on non‐target Macrolepidopteran moths captured by a crop pest monitoring system, we compared local (100 m perimeter)‐ and landscape‐scale (1000 m perimeter) predictors of the numbers of moth individuals and moth species richness. During a single year (2009), eighteen light traps captured 91 726 individuals of 564 moths species. Typically for biotically impoverished habitats, the catches were dominated by a few superabundant species. Even in these impoverished assemblages, numbers of species increased with increasing herb and woody plants diversity (100 m around the traps), crop diversity (1000 m perimeter), landscape composition (1000 m) and configuration (100 and 1000 m). Abundance of the catches increased only with woody plants diversity in 100 m perimeters. In separate analyses of two species‐rich families, the presumably less mobile Geometridae increased with landscape configuration (i.e. density of edges) within 100 m perimeters around the traps, whereas the species richness of more mobile Noctuidae also reflected the landscape composition (i.e. proportional representation of land covers) at 100 m perimeters. Proportional representation of pest species decreased with increasing richness of herb and woody plants. Taken together, farmland heterogeneity increases moth species richness, whereas abundance of the catches mainly depends on local factors in the vicinity of light traps, and the local factors are more important for presumably less mobile Geometridae than for more mobile Noctuidae.
Person‐centred health care: a critical assessment of current and emerging research approaches
Authors: Martin Carmel M. , Félix‐Bortolotti Margot
Published: December 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

Person‐centred health care is prominent in international health care reforms. A shift to understanding and improving personal care at the point of delivery has generated debates about the nature of the person‐centred research agenda. This paper purviews research paradigms that influence current person‐centred research approaches and traditions that influence knowledge foundations in the field. It presents a synthesis of the emergent approaches and methodologies and highlights gaps between static academic research and the increasing accessibility of evaluation, informatics and big data from health information systems.

Findings

Paradigms in health services research range from theoretical to atheoretical, including positivist, interpretive, postmodern and pragmatic. Interpretivist (subjective) and positivist (objectivist) paradigms have been historically polarized. Yet, integrative and pragmatic approaches have emerged. Nevertheless, there is a tendency to reductionism, and to reduce personal experiences to metrics in the positivist paradigm. Integrating personalized information into clinical systems is increasingly driven by the pervasive health information technology, which raises many issues about the asymmetry and uncertainty in the flow of information to support personal health journeys. The flux and uncertainty of knowledge between and within paradigmatic or pragmatic approaches highlights the uncertainty and the ‘unorder and disorder’ in what is known and what it means. Transdisciplinary, complex adaptive systems theory with multi‐ontology sense making provides an overarching framework for making sense of the complex dynamics in research progress.

Conclusion

A major challenge to current research paradigms is focus on the individualizing of care and enhancing experiences of persons in health settings. There is an urgent need for person‐centred research to address this complex process. A transdisciplinary and complex systems approach provides a sense‐making framework.
Analysing codon usage bias of cyprinid herpesvirus 3 and adaptation of this virus to the hosts
Authors: Ma Y P , Liu Z X , Hao L , Ma J Y , Liang Z L , Li Y G , Ke H
Published: December 2014

The codon usage patterns of open reading frames (ORFs) in cyprinid herpesvirus 3 (CyHV‐3) have been investigated in this study. The high correlation between GC12% and GC3% suggests that mutational pressure rather than natural selection is the main factor that determines the codon usage and base component in the CyHV‐3, while mutational pressure effect results from the high correlation between GC3% and the first principal axis of principle component analysis (Axis 1) on the relative synonymous codon usage (RSCU) value of the viral functional genes. However, the interaction between the absolute codon usage bias and GC3% suggests that other selections take part in the formation of codon usage, except for the mutational pressure. It is noted that the similarity degree of codon usage between the CyHV‐3 and goldfish, Carassius auratus (L.), is higher than that between the virus and common carp, Cyprinus carpio L., suggesting that the goldfish plays a more important role than the common carp in codon usage pattern of the CyHV‐3. The study of codon usage in CyHV‐3 can provide some evidence about the molecular evolution of the virus. It can also enrich our understanding about the relationship between the CyHV‐3 and its hosts by analysing their codon usage patterns.
Resistance to single‐agent chemotherapy and its risk factors in low‐risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasms
Authors: Mousavi Azam Sadat , Zamani Ashraf , Khorasanizadeh Faezeh , Gilani Mitra Modarres , Zendehdel Kazem
Published: December 2014

Aim

Gestational trophoblastic neoplasm (GTN) is a rare disease which is classified into high‐ and low‐risk groups. While the high‐risk patients require combination therapy, the low‐risk groups respond to single‐agent chemotherapy. We studied resistance to single‐agent chemotherapy and its risk factors among the low‐risk GTN patients in Iran.

Methods

We followed 168 low‐risk GTN patients who were treated between 2001 and 2011 in Valiasr Hospital, Tehran, Iran. We used a case–control design and studied odds ratios (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) to evaluate association between drug resistance and different personal and clinical variables.

Results

Resistance to sequential single‐agent chemotherapy was 19%, although all patients had a complete remission after a combination of chemotherapy and/or surgery. Patients who had International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics scores of 5–6 – considered as, the intermediate risk group – had a 14‐fold higher resistance compared with the low score patients (OR = 14.28, 95% CI = 5.54–36.81). We found higher risk of resistance among patients with metastasis (OR = 8.42, 95% CI = 2.44–29.07), large tumor size (>3 cm) (OR = 7.73, 95% CI = 1.93–30.91), high β‐hCG (>100 000 IU/L) (OR = 5.86, 95% CI = 1.07–32.02) and/or a diagnosis more than 4 months after pregnancy (OR = 3.30, 95% CI = 1.08–10.02), compared with their reference group. We found no priority for the different chemotherapy regimens.

Conclusion

Intermediate risk GTN patients had a higher risk of resistance to chemotherapy compared with low‐risk patients. Clinical trials and cost‐effectiveness studies are needed to suggest a better treatment program for the intermediate risk group.
Quality of life among women with symptoms of gynecological morbidities: Results of a cross‐sectional study in Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Sami Neelofar , Ali Tazeen Saeed , Osama Muhammad
Published: December 2014

Aims

A population‐based cross‐sectional study design was used to study the effects of symptoms of various gynecological morbidities (GM) on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) of women, residents of squatter settlements of Karachi, Pakistan.

Material and Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted in squatter settlements of Karachi from September 2012 to August 2013, with 1002 married, non‐pregnant women. After obtaining written informed consent from every participant, a structured questionnaire was used to collect information about symptoms of GM and their effect on four domains of HRQoL (physical, social, functional and financial domains).

Results

Of 1002 women who participated in the study, 578 reported suffering from one or more symptoms of GM. The most commonly reported symptoms were foul‐smelling vaginal discharge, dysmenorrhea and uterovaginal prolapse while the least reported symptom was post‐coital bleeding. Symptoms of GM were found to have a negative impact on HRQoL. Approximately one‐third of women with the symptoms of GM reported having negative influences on the physical, financial and functional domains of HRQoL with social domain being comparatively less affected. Compared to other symptoms, dysmenorrhea and uterovaginal prolapse were reported to be mostly associated with poor HRQoL of women.

Conclusion

The concept of HRQoL has been kept marginal and inconspicuous by clinicians. In order to achieve the psychosocial satisfaction of the patient, the focus needs to be diverted to all domains of HRQoL.
Orai1 protein expression and the role of calcium release‐activated calcium channels in the contraction of human term‐pregnant and non‐pregnant myometrium
Authors: Sutovska Martina , Kocmalova Michaela , Sadlonova Vladimira , Dokus Karol , Adamkov Marian , Luptak Jan , Franova Sona
Published: December 2014

Aim

This experimental in vitro study examined differences in the expression and activity of calcium release‐activated calcium (CRAC) channels of human term‐pregnant and non‐pregnant myometrium.

Material and Methods

The tissue samples were obtained from term‐pregnant myometrium in labor of women undergoing cesarean section and from non‐pregnant myometrium of women undergoing total hysterectomy due to uterine myoma. The expression of Orai1 protein, a pore‐forming subunit of CRAC channels, in human myometrium was examined using immunohistochemistry. CRAC channel involvement in the amplitude and frequency of myometrial contractions was evaluated in vitro using a tissue bath method with a CRAC ion channel blocker 3‐fluropyridine‐4‐carboxylic acid (FPCA).

Results

Decreased Orai1 expression was observed in human term‐pregnant laboring myometrium compared with non‐pregnant myometrium. However, the initial oxytocin‐induced contraction of myometrium was significantly suppressed at different doses of FPCA in both non‐pregnant human isolated myometrium and non‐pregnant myometrium. The frequency of contractions was the most significantly reduced at the lowest dose of FPCA in non‐pregnant myometrium and remained suppressed at all doses of FPCA in term‐pregnant myometrium. Salbutamol was shown as more effective in suppression of amplitude in term‐pregnant isolated myometrium.

Conclusion

Our results provide the first information about the changes in the Orai1 protein expression and activity of human myometrial CRAC channels in term‐pregnant laboring myometrium.
Hysteroscopic transcervical resection is useful to diagnose myometrial invasion in atypical polypoid adenomyoma coexisting with atypical endometrial hyperplasia or endometrial cancer with suspicious myometrial invasion
Authors: Yamagami Wataru , Susumu Nobuyuki , Ninomiya Tomomi , Nakadaira Naoki , Iwasa Naomi , Kuwahata Michiko , Nomura Hiroyuki , Kataoka Fumio , Banno Kouji , Aoki Daisuke
Published: December 2014

Aim

Management of atypical polypoid adenomyoma (APAM) is complicated because it can sometimes coexist with atypical endometrial hyperplasia (AEH) or endometrioid adenocarcinoma. It is often difficult to assess myometrial invasion in APAM complicated with endometrial cancer. We encountered three patients who, contrary to magnetic resonance imaging, did not have myometrial invasion on hysteroscopic transcervical resection (TCR) and therefore could have fertility preserved, and consequently could become pregnant.

Methods

We removed the polypoid lesion and a 3–5 mm‐thick layer of the normal inner membrane at the root of the polypoid lesion, and then performed total curettage. Several pathological diagnostic procedures were then carried out on each of these resected specimens. Thereafter, high‐dose medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) was initiated.

Results

All three patients underwent hysteroscopic transcervical tumor resection. The pathological diagnoses were as follows: patient 1, G1 endometrioid adenocarcinoma (EMG1) + APAM; patients 2,3, AEH + APAM. No findings of myometrial invasion in the resected root specimen were observed in any patient. In all cases, high‐dose MPA was initiated. After the disappearance of tumors, each patient achieved pregnancy. Complications such as placenta accreta were not observed at the time of delivery.

Conclusion

In patients with APAM and AEH or EMG1, TCR may aid accurate diagnosis when myometrial invasion is unclear on diagnostic imaging.
Effect of UV‐C Radiation on Resistance of Romaine Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) Against Botrytis cinerea and Sclerotinia minor
Authors: Ouhibi Chayma , Attia Houneida , Nicot Philippe , Urban Laurent , Lachaâl Mokhtar , Aarrouf Jawad
Published: December 2014

The aim of this research was to examine the effect of UV‐C on resistance of lettuce to Botrytis cinerea and Sclerotinia minor. Analysis of the lesion surfaces showed that plants exposed to UV‐C were less susceptible to the two pathogens, especially on the fourth day after inoculation. Chlorophyll, carotenoid contents and malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide were assayed after 1 day and 4 days. Lettuces treated with UV‐C and inoculated showed an increase in chlorophyll and carotenoid content, especially 24 h after inoculation, and low values of the two indicators of oxidative stress as compared with lettuces which were inoculated but did not receive UV‐C treatment.
Association analysis between 8-oxoguanine DNA glycosylase genetic variants and endometrial cancer susceptibility in Chinese Han population
Authors: Wang Lijuan , Li Jing , Lu Huaiwu , Zhou Hui , Xie Lingling , Wu Miaofang , Lin Zhongqiu
Published: December 2014

Objectives

Numerous epidemiologic studies demonstrate that 8-oxoguanine DNA glycosylase gene (hOGG1) is an important candidate gene for the development of endometrial cancer (EC). The objective of this study is to evaluate the potential association between hOGG1 genetic variants and the susceptibility to EC.

Methods

In total, 218 EC patients and 243 cancer-free controls were recruited in this study.

Key findings

Our data indicate that the hOGG1 c.269C > A and c.828A > G genetic variants are statistically associated with the increased susceptibility to EC (for c.269C > A, AA vs CC: odds ratio (OR) = 2.14, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.21 to 3.78, P = 0.008; A vs C: OR = 1.43, 95% CI, 1.09 to 1.88, P = 0.010; for c.828A > G, GG vs AA: OR = 2.31, 95% CI, 1.24 to 4.30, P = 0.008; G vs A: OR = 1.35, 95% CI, 1.03 to 1.78, P = 0.032). The A allele and AA genotype of c.269C > A and G allele and GG genotype of c.828A > G genetic variants could contribute to the susceptibility to EC.

Conclusion

Taken together, our findings suggest that the hOGG1 c.269C > A and c.828A > G genetic variants are significantly associated with EC susceptibility in Chinese Han populations and might be used as molecular markers for assessing the risk of EC.
Regioselective glucuronidation of gingerols by human liver microsomes and expressed UDP-glucuronosyltransferase enzymes: reaction kinetics and activity correlation analyses for UGT1A9 and UGT2B7
Authors: Wu Zhufeng , Liu Hongming , Wu Baojian
Published: December 2014

Objectives

To determine the reaction kinetics for regioselective glucuronidation of gingerols (i.e. 6-, 8- and 10-gingerol) by human liver microsomes and expressed UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) enzymes, and to identify the main UGT enzymes involved in regioselective glucuronidation of gingerols.

Methods

The rates of glucuronidation were determined by incubating the gingerols with uridine diphosphoglucuronic acid-supplemented microsomes. Kinetic parameters were derived by fitting an appropriate model to the data. Activity correlation analyses were performed to identify the main UGT enzymes contributing to hepatic metabolism of gingerols.

Key findings

Glucuronidation at the 4′-OH group was much more favoured than that at 5-OH. The degree of position preference was compound-dependent; the catalytic efficiency ratios of 4′-O- to 5-O-glucuronidation were 9.1, 19.7 and 2.9 for 6-, 8- and 10-gingerol, respectively. UGT1A8 (an intestinal enzyme), UGT1A9 and UGT2B7 were the enzymes showing the highest activity towards gingerols. Formation of 5-O-glucuronide was mainly catalysed by UGT1A9. UGT2B7 was the only enzyme that generated glucuronides at both 4′-OH and 5-OH sites, although a strong position preference was observed with 4′-OH (≥80.2%). Further, activity correlation analyses indicated that UGT2B7 and UGT1A9 were primarily responsible for 4′-O-glucuronidation and 5-O-glucuronidation of gingerols in the liver, respectively.

Conclusions

Gingerols were metabolized by multiple hepatic and gastrointestinal UGT enzymes. Also, UGT1A9 and 2B7 were the main contributors to regioselective glucuronidation of gingerols in the liver.
A numerical tool to predict ice growth in lakes
Authors: Toniolo Horacio
Published: December 2014

Oil and gas exploration activities on the North of Slope of Alaska rely on ice roads to provide access to the exploration sites, with negligible effects on the tundra. The construction of ice roads requires a large volume of water which, in turn, poses challenges to water resource managers. A tool capable of predicting ice thickness in a given lake could certainly benefit the oil industry. This study focuses on the development and use of such a predictive tool. Using a simplified Stefan equation, the tool is based on a combination of three weather scenarios (warm, average and cold winters), current winter condition and ice thickness measurements. It was applied to four lakes located on the Arctic Coastal Plain and one lake in the foothill area. The study results indicate the model predictions are relatively accurate (7% average percentage error) for monthly time spans. The study results also reveal a temporal variation in a coefficient used in the calculations, although previous literature utilized a constant coefficient to estimate the ice thickness.
High‐stakes species delimitation in eyeless cave spiders (Cicurina, Dictynidae, Araneae) from central Texas
Authors: Hedin Marshal
Published: December 2014

A remarkable radiation of completely eyeless, cave‐obligate spider species (Cicurina) has been described from limestone caves of Texas. This radiation includes over 50 described species, with a large number of hypothesized single‐cave endemics, and four species listed as US Federally Endangered. Because of this conservation importance, species delimitation in the group is ‘high‐stakes’– it is imperative that species hypotheses are data rich, objective, and robust. This study focuses on a complex of four cave‐dwelling Cicurina distributed on the northwestern edge of Austin, Texas. Several of the existing species hypotheses in this complex are weak, based on morphological comparisons of small samples of adult female specimens; one species description (for C. wartoni) is based on a single adult specimen. Species limits in this group were newly assessed using morphological, mitochondrial and nuclear DNA sequence data evidence, analysed using a variety of approaches. All data support a clear lineage separation between C. buwata versus the C. travisae complex (including C. travisae, C. wartoni and C. reddelli). Observed congruence across multiple analyses indicate that the C. travisae complex represents a single species, and the formal species synonymy presented here has important conservation implications. The integrative framework utilized in this study serves as a potential model for other Texas cave Cicurina, including US Federally Endangered species. More generally, this study illustrates how and why taxon‐focused conservation efforts must prioritize modern species delimitation research (if the existing taxonomy is weak), before devoting precious downstream resources to conservation efforts. The study also highlights the issue of taxonomic type II error that diversity biologists increasingly face as species delimitation moves into the genomics era.
The disruption of prenylation leads to pleiotropic rearrangements in cellular behavior in Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Krute Christina N. , Carroll Ronan K. , Rivera Frances E. , Weiss Andy , Young Ryan M. , Shilling Andrew , Botlani Mohsen , Varma Sameer , Baker Bill J. , Shaw Lindsey N.
Published: December 2014

Prenylation is the addition of prenyl groups to peptide chains or metabolites via the condensation of geranyl‐ or isopentenyl‐diphosphate moieties by geranyltranstransferases. Although this process is extensively studied in eukaryotes, little is known about the influence of prenylation in prokaryotic species. To explore the role of this modification in bacteria, we generated a mutation in the geranyltranstransferase (IspA) of Staphylococcus aureus. Quite strikingly, the ispA mutant completely lacked pigment and exhibited a previously undescribed small colony variant‐like phenotype. Further pleiotropic defects in cellular behavior were noted, including impaired growth, decreased ATP production, increased sensitivity to oxidative stress, increased resistance to aminoglycosides and cationic antimicrobial peptides, and decreased resistance to cell wall‐targeting antibiotics. These latter effects appear to result from differences in envelope composition as ispA mutants have highly diffuse cell walls (particularly at the septum), marked alterations in fatty acid composition and increased membrane fluidity. Taken together, these data present an important characterization of prokaryotic prenylation and demonstrate that this process is central to a wealth of pathways involved in mediating cellular homeostasis in S. aureus.
Rapid identification of the Leptosphaeria maculans avirulence gene AvrLm2 using an intraspecific comparative genomics approach
Authors: Ghanbarnia Kaveh , Fudal Isabelle , Larkan Nicholas J. , Links Matthew G. , Balesdent Marie‐Hélène , Profotova Bronislava , Fernando W. G. Dilantha , Rouxel Thierry , Borhan M. Hossein
Published: December 2014

Five avirulence genes from Leptosphaeria maculans, the causal agent of blackleg of canola (Brassica napus), have been identified previously through map‐based cloning. In this study, a comparative genomic approach was used to clone the previously mapped AvrLm2. Given the lack of a presence–absence gene polymorphism coincident with the AvrLm2 phenotype, 36 L. maculans isolates were resequenced and analysed for single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in predicted small secreted protein‐encoding genes present within the map interval. Three SNPs coincident with the AvrLm2 phenotype were identified within LmCys1, previously identified as a putative effector‐coding gene. Complementation of a virulent isolate with LmCys1, as the candidate AvrLm2 allele, restored the avirulent phenotype on Rlm2‐containing B. napus lines. AvrLm2 encodes a small cysteine‐rich protein with low similarity to other proteins in the public databases. Unlike other avirulence genes, AvrLm2 resides in a small GC island within an AT‐rich isochore of the genome, and was never found to be deleted completely in virulent isolates.
A 25‐year experience of kidney transplantation in Thailand: Report from the Thai Transplant Registry
Authors: Noppakun Kajohnsak , Ingsathit Atiporn , Pongskul Cholatip , Premasthian Nalinee , Avihingsanon Yingyos , Lumpaopong Adisorn , Vareesangthip Kriangsak , Sumethkul Vasant ,   Subcommittee for Kidney Transplant Registry and Thai Transplantation Society
Published: December 2014

Aim

To report the kidney transplant activity and survival data during the past 25 years from the Thai Transplant Registry.

Methods

By using the registry database that was collected and updated yearly by 26 transplant centres across the country, we have reported the donor, recipient, and transplant characteristics during the past 25 years from 1987 to 2012. The primary outcome was graft loss that was defined as return to dialysis, graft removal, retransplant, or patient death.

Results

465 kidney transplants were performed in 2012, an 8.1% and 23.0% increase in living and deceased donor transplants compared to the previous year, respectively. Between 1987 and 2012 with the data of 3808 recipients, patient survival and graft survival improved significantly. Traffic accident was the most common cause of death in brain‐dead donors. Additionally, the most common cause of end‐stage kidney disease was glomerulonephritis. Infection has been among the most common causes of death in kidney transplant recipients.

Conclusion

We have reported the total number, the graft and the patient survival data of kidney transplant recipients in Thailand for the period from 1987 to 2012. Although the number of patients is much lower than that in the developed countries, the patients and the graft survival rates are comparable.
Relationships between attitudes toward sexuality, sexual behaviors, and contraceptive practices among Chinese medical and nursing undergraduates
Authors: Zeng Yingchun , Luo Taizhen , Zhou Ying
Published: December 2014

In this study, we investigated attitudes toward sexuality, the prevalence of sexual behaviors and contraceptive use among Chinese medical and nursing undergraduates, and relationships between attitudes toward sexuality and sexual and contraceptive practices among these participants. This was a descriptive, cross‐sectional study carried out by using a Personal Attitude toward Sexuality Scale and Sexual and Contraceptive Questionnaire. The participants were recruited in the researcher's lectures. A total of 158 participants joined this study. Overall, Chinese medical and nursing undergraduates in this study held relatively conservative attitudes toward sexuality. The prevalence of sexually‐active students was relatively low, and the percentage of contraceptive use among those sexually‐active students was also low. Participants’ attitudes toward sexuality had statistically‐significant effects on their sexual and contraceptive practices. Nearly half of the sexually‐active participants reported never using any contraceptive method during sexual intercourse. This finding has important public health implications, as young people represent the group with the largest rate of new infections of HIV/AIDS in China. A more comprehensive sexual education program that extends to college undergraduates and promotes the social acceptability of using contraception, specifically condoms, is needed.
Phosphorus limitation, soil‐borne pathogens and the coexistence of plant species in hyperdiverse forests and shrublands
Authors: Laliberté Etienne , Lambers Hans , Burgess Treena I. , Wright S. Joseph
Published: December 2014

Hyperdiverse forests occur in the lowland tropics, whereas the most species‐rich shrublands are found in regions such as south‐western Australia (kwongan) and South Africa (fynbos). Despite large differences, these ecosystems share an important characteristic: their soils are strongly weathered and phosphorus (P) is a key growth‐limiting nutrient. Soil‐borne pathogens are increasingly being recognized as drivers of plant diversity in lowland tropical rainforests, but have received little attention in species‐rich shrublands. We suggest a trade‐off in which the species most proficient at acquiring P have ephemeral roots that are particularly susceptible to soil‐borne pathogens. This could equalize out the differences in competitive ability among co‐occurring species in these ecosystems, thus contributing to coexistence. Moreover, effective protection against soil‐borne pathogens by ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi might explain the occurrence of monodominant stands of ECM trees and shrubs amongst otherwise species‐rich communities. We identify gaps in our knowledge which need to be filled in order to evaluate a possible link between P limitation, fine root traits, soil‐borne pathogens and local plant species diversity. Such a link may help to explain how numerous plant species can coexist in hyperdiverse rainforests and shrublands, and, conversely, how monodominant stands can develop in these ecosystems.

Contents

Summary
507

I.
Hyperdiverse forests and shrublands
507

II.
Evidence for P limitation
509

III.
Negative density dependence
510

IV.
The importance of soil‐borne pathogens
510

V.
A trade‐off between efficient P acquisition and fine root defence?
512

VI.
Perspectives
516

VII.
Conclusions
518

Acknowledgements
518

References
518
Removal of wood fragments from the maxillary sinus: a case report
Authors: Azoubel E. , Carneiro M.C. , Azoubel M.C.F. , Ribeiro N.C.R.
Published: December 2014

A foreign body in the maxillary sinus is an uncommon finding that could arise from traumatic conditions or iatrogenic dental treatments. Among non‐odontogenic foreign bodies, it is possible to find glass, stones, wood and projectiles. Ultrasonography is a very sensitive feature in the perception of less dense objects, the most effective when compared with radiography and computed tomography, as the test of choice to assist in surgical removal of foreign body. Recurrent infections, neuralgia, chemical poisoning, antrolith formation and cutaneous fistulae may result from the presence of foreign bodies in the maxillary sinus. To avoid complications the foreign body must be removed either by the classical surgical Caldwell‐Luc technique or through the endoscopic procedures. This is a report of a clinical case in which wood fragments traumatically introduced were removed from the maxillary sinus by the classical surgical Caldwell‐Luc technique.
Cryotherapy application in third molar surgery: a review of the literature
Authors: Taneja P. , Chowlia H.K. , Ezzeldin M. , Kaur S.
Published: December 2014

Aim

To review the literature on the different methods and application regimes of cryotherapy, and investigate its effects with respect to the removal of third molars.

Materials and methods

A search was conducted through PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane electronic databases. The publications included for the review were those that investigated any form of cryotherapy and the removal of third molars. Additionally a manual search of the reference lists of included articles were reviewed.

Results

The literature search resulted in 111 articles, of which 10 met the inclusion criteria. Outcomes of interest included body temperature, efficacy of pain control, facial swelling, neurological scores, occurrence of inflammation, pain patient, satisfaction, quality of life, trismus and wound healing.

Conclusion

The review has found that there have been a variety of cooling methods investigated, with the effects assessed postoperatively. Cryotherapy in the form of continuous cooling was shown to have significant effects on postoperative mouth opening, pain, swelling and improved patient satisfaction over conventional cooling.
Atrial Fibrillation Exacerbates Cognitive Dysfunction and Cerebral Perfusion in Heart Failure
Authors: ALOSCO MICHAEL L. , SPITZNAGEL MARY BETH , SWEET LAWRENCE H. , JOSEPHSON RICHARD , HUGHES JOEL , GUNSTAD JOHN
Published: December 2014

Background

Heart failure (HF) increases risk for cognitive impairment in part due to the negative effects of cardiac dysfunction on cerebral perfusion. Atrial fibrillation (AF), an independent risk factor for cognitive impairment, often accompanies HF and is associated with lower systemic perfusion. However, no study has examined the associations among AF, cognitive function, and cerebral perfusion in patients with HF.

Methods

A total of 187 HF patients completed neuropsychological testing and underwent transcranial Doppler ultrasonography. Cerebral blood flow velocity of the middle cerebral artery (CBF‐V) operationalized cerebral perfusion. A medical chart review ascertained AF.

Results

History of AF was found in 32.1% of HF patients. HF patients with AF exhibited worse global cognition, memory, and CBF‐V relative to patients without AF. These effects remained after HF severity and other demographic and medical factors were taken into account. Partial correlations controlling for possible confounds showed decreased CBF‐V predicted worse cognition in multiple domains in the overall sample (r = 0.13 to 0.15, P < 0.05) and in the subgroup of HF patients with AF (r = 0.26 to r = 0.28, P < 0.05), but not among HF patients without AF.

Conclusions

AF exacerbates cognitive deficits in HF, possibly through its association with decreased cerebral perfusion. Longitudinal studies are needed to determine whether AF accelerates cognitive decline in HF and whether medical (e.g., ablation) and lifestyle interventions (e.g., exercise programs) that target cerebral perfusion improve cognitive outcomes in patients with HF and AF.
Rapidly Involuting Congenital Hemangioma with Fetal Involution
Authors: Maguiness Sheilagh , Uihlein Lily Changchien , Liang Marilyn G. , Kozakewich Harry , Mulliken John B.
Published: December 2014

Uncommon congenital hemangiomas differ from common infantile hemangiomas in their appearance, postnatal behavior, histopathology, and immunohistologic staining. Two types are well described in the literature: noninvoluting congenital hemangioma (NICH) and rapidly involuting congenital hemangioma (RICH). We report a series of infants with another presentation of congenital hemangioma that arises prenatally and is nearly regressed at birth. This was a retrospective case series. We describe six infants with unusual congenital vascular tumors. Each lesion presented at birth as a violaceous, atrophic plaque with a surrounding pale halo. The lesions involuted in infancy, fading in color and becoming atrophic, with prominent central veins, similar to RICH in the final stage of regression. The distinctive morphology and behavior suggests that these tumors undergo a life cycle of proliferation and involution during fetal life. We describe a new variant of congenital hemangioma that we refer to as rapidly involuting congenital hemangioma with fetal involution.
Outpatient Pediatric Dermatologic Surgery: Experience in 296 Patients
Authors: D'Acunto Carmine , Raone Beatrice , Neri Iria , Passarini Batrice , Patrizi Annalisa
Published: December 2014

From January 2010 to December 2012, 296 skin biopsies were performed in pediatric patients using only local anesthesia (cream and infiltration). The biopsies were divided into three groups: biopsies of skin neoplasms, biopsies of skin rashes and biopsies of follicular‐centered lesions. Our data demonstrate the possibility of using this procedure, with the dual advantage of eliminating hospitalization and cost savings.
Correlation Between Serum 25‐Hydroxyvitamin D and Virulence Genes of Staphylococcus aureus Isolates Colonizing Children with Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Gilaberte Yolanda , Sanmartín Rosalía , Aspiroz Carmen , Hernandez‐Martin Angela , Benito Daniel , Sanz‐Puertolas Patricia , Alonso Mercedes , Torrelo Antonio , Torres Carmen
Published: December 2014

The skin of children with atopic dermatitis (AD) is colonized with Staphylococcus aureus more frequently than that of their peers. We investigated the prevalence of skin and nares colonization by S. aureus in children with AD, the virulence genes of the isolates, and their association with allergy, AD severity, and serum vitamin D (25(OH)D). This was an observational, cross‐sectional study in a sample of children diagnosed with AD in two settings in Spain. The samples were collected in 2012. Swabs from affected skin and nares were taken for microbiologic culture. The prevalence of S. aureus and presence of 17 staphylococcal virulence genes were studied using polymerase chain reaction. A total of 114 patients with a mean age of 5.7 ± 4.1 (range 3 mos to 14 yrs) were included in the study. Swabs were taken from the skin of 113 individuals with AD and from the nares of 85; 28.3% had S. aureus on the skin, which was significantly associated with positive allergen‐specific immunoglobulin E antibodies and higher Scoring Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) scores in the multivariate analysis. The presence of virulence factors tsst‐1, eta, cna, aur, and sec in cutaneous S. aureus isolates was associated with lower serum levels of 25(OH)D. S. aureus on nasal swabs correlated with its presence on the skin and was associated with lower 25(OH)D levels. In conclusion, S. aureus colonization is associated with allergy and severity in AD, whereas certain virulence genes are associated with lower serum 25(OH)D levels.
DASH transcription factor impacts Medicago truncatula seed size by its action on embryo morphogenesis and auxin homeostasis
Authors: Noguero Mélanie , Le Signor Christine , Vernoud Vanessa , Bandyopadhyay Kaustav , Sanchez Myriam , Fu Chunxiang , Torres‐Jerez Ivone , Wen Jiangqi , Mysore Kirankumar S. , Gallardo Karine , Udvardi Michael , Thompson Richard , Verdier Jerome
Published: December 2014

The endosperm plays a pivotal role in the integration between component tissues of molecular signals controlling seed development. It has been shown to participate in the regulation of embryo morphogenesis and ultimately seed size determination. However, the molecular mechanisms that modulate seed size are still poorly understood especially in legumes. DASH (DOF Acting in Seed embryogenesis and Hormone accumulation) is a DOF transcription factor (TF) expressed during embryogenesis in the chalazal endosperm of the Medicago truncatula seed. Phenotypic characterization of three independent dash mutant alleles revealed a role for this TF in the prevention of early seed abortion and the determination of final seed size. Strong loss‐of‐function alleles cause severe defects in endosperm development and lead to embryo growth arrest at the globular stage. Transcriptomic analysis of dash pods versus wild‐type (WT) pods revealed major transcriptional changes and highlighted genes that are involved in auxin transport and perception as mainly under‐expressed in dash mutant pods. Interestingly, the exogenous application of auxin alleviated the seed‐lethal phenotype, whereas hormonal dosage revealed a much higher auxin content in dash pods compared with WT. Together these results suggested that auxin transport/signaling may be affected in the dash mutant and that aberrant auxin distribution may contribute to the defect in embryogenesis resulting in the final seed size phenotype.
Mucolipidosis Type IV Protein TRPML1‐Dependent Lysosome Formation
Authors: Miller Austin , Schafer Jessica , Upchurch Cameron , Spooner Ellen , Huynh Julie , Hernandez Sebastian , McLaughlin Brooke , Oden Liam , Fares Hanna
Published: December 2014

Lysosomes are dynamic organelles that undergo cycles of fusion and fission with themselves and with other organelles. Following fusion with late endosomes to form hybrid organelles, lysosomes are reformed as discrete organelles. This lysosome reformation or formation is a poorly understood process that has not been systematically analyzed and that lacks known regulators. In this study, we quantitatively define the multiple steps of lysosome formation and identify the first regulator of this process.
Growth performance of Vallisneria spiralis under oligotrophic conditions supports its potential invasiveness in mid‐elevation freshwaters
Authors: Bolpagni R , Laini A , Soana E , Tomaselli M , Nascimbene J
Published: December 2014

Under the influence of human‐driven impacts, inland aquatic habitats of intermediate to mid‐high elevations may provide new areas for the establishment of lowland macrophytes that usually act as opportunistic species. Vallisneria spiralis, an obligate lowland macrophyte with an altitudinal range not exceeding 300 m, is a typical component of the plant diversity in meso‐ to eutrophic water habitats. This species is an engineering species in ecosystems, being able to modify the colonised sediments promoting its self‐maintenance under eutrophic conditions. Vallisneria spiralis delivers large amounts of oxygen to roots promoting the loss of nitrogen via denitrification and reducing the internal nutrient load of colonised environments. However, the establishment of the species results in rapid sediment accumulation and the progressive loss of more sensitive macrophytes. Furthermore, V. spiralis is one of the most widespread alien aquatic weeds in Europe. In this study, we evaluated the growth performance of V. spiralis under oligotrophic conditions at the upper limit of its altitudinal distribution using two different techniques: harvesting and leaf‐marking. Vallisneria spiralis proved to be able to grow under oligotrophic conditions, even if at rates lower than those recorded under eutrophic conditions. Accordingly, V. spiralis represents a potential threat for oligotrophic aquatic habitats at moderate elevations. However, the high variability observed in the growth responses highlights the need of further investigation to evaluate the key factors involved in the establishment and survival of the species.
Toward a Better Understanding of the Link Between Parent and Child Physical Activity Levels: The Moderating Role of Parental Encouragement
Authors: Tate Eleanor B. , Shah Anuja , Jones Malia , Pentz Mary Ann , Liao Yue , Dunton Genevieve
Published: December 2014

Background:

Research on adolescent physical activity is mixed regarding the role of parent activity. This study tested parent encouragement, direct modeling, and perceived influence as moderators of objectively-measured (accelerometer) parent and child moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) associations.

Methods:

Parent-child dyads (n = 423; mean child age = 11.33 yrs.) wore accelerometers for 7 days; parents completed surveys. Hierarchical linear regression models tested moderation using a product of constituent terms interaction.

Results:

Parent-reported encouragement moderated the association between parent and child MVPA (β = –.15, P = .01, ΔR2 = .02, P < .01). Among parents with lower MVPA, child MVPA was higher for children receiving high encouragement (mean = 3.06, SE = .17) vs. low (mean = 3.03, SE = .15, P = .02) and moderate encouragement (mean = 3.40, SE = .09) vs. low (P = .04).

Conclusions:

Physical activity promotion programs may use parent encouragement as a tool to boost child activity, but must consider other child and parent characteristics that could attenuate effects.
Physical Activity Patterns Among Somali Adolescents in Minnesota
Authors: Thul Chelsey M. , Eisenberg Marla E. , Larson Nicole , Neumark-Sztainer Dianne
Published: December 2014

Background:

Little is known about the physical activity patterns of Somali adolescents. This study compared time spent in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and participation in specific physical activities among Somali, other Non-Hispanic black and white adolescents.

Methods:

A subsample of 1,268 adolescents (mean age= 14.6) who completed surveys as part of the EAT 2010 (Eating and Activity in Teens) study was included in analyses. Gender-stratified linear and logistic regressions, controlling for body mass index and demographic characteristics, were conducted to estimate mean weekly hours of self-reported MVPA and mean weekly hours and prevalence of engagement in each of 26 physical activities assessed by ethnic/racial group.

Results:

Somali girls had lower mean MVPA hours than their peers; however, no differences were found for Somali boys. Involvement in most activities was similar for Somali and other groups, but some differences were observed. For example, Somali youth were more likely to play soccer than their same-sex other black peers (boys: 52.4% vs. 20.4%; girls: 34.6% vs. 14.6%; P < .05). Somali girls also engaged in more hours per week of soccer than their black or white peers.

Conclusions:

Activities for which Somali youth indicated higher involvement may be particularly relevant for culturally-tailored physical activity programming.
Clustering of Physical Inactivity in Leisure, Work, Commuting, and Household Domains: Data From 47,477 Industrial Workers in Brazil
Authors: Del Duca Giovâni F. , Garcia Leandro Martin Totaro , da Silva Shana Ginar , da Silva Kelly Samara , Oliveira Elusa S. , Barros Mauro V. , Nahas Markus V.
Published: December 2014

Background:

Physical inactivity in each domain (leisure, work, commuting, and household) is not completely independent. This study aimed to describe the clustering of physical inactivity in different domains and its association with sociodemographic factors among Brazilian industrial workers.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional, population-based study using data from 23 Brazilian states and the Federal District collected via questionnaires between 2006 and 2008. Physical inactivity in each domain was defined as nonparticipation in specific physical activities. Clustering of physical inactivity was identified using the ratio of the observed (O) and expected (E) percentages of each combination. Multinomial logistic regression was used to identify sociodemographic factors with the outcome.

Results:

Among the 44,477 interviewees, most combinations exceeded expectations, particularly the clustering of physical inactivity in all domains among men (O/E = 1.37; 95% CI: 1.30; 1.44) and women (O/E = 1.47; 95% CI: 1.36; 1.60). Physical inactivity in 2 or more domains was observed more frequently in women, older age groups, individuals living without a partner, and those with higher education and income levels.

Conclusions:

Physical inactivity tends to be observed in clusters regardless of gender. Women and workers with higher income levels were the main factors associated with to be physically inactive in 2 or more domains.
The Advantages of Being a Superantigen
Authors: Serezani Henrique
Published: December 2014

Protein A mediates
Staphylococcus aureus
immune evasion by redirecting specific antibody production.