bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exposure to 50 Hz magnetic field modulates GABAA currents in cerebellar granule neurons through an EP receptor‐mediated PKC pathway
Authors: Yang Guang , Ren Zhen , Mei Yan‐Ai
Published: July 2015

Previous work from both our lab and others have indicated that exposure to 50 Hz magnetic fields (ELF‐MF) was able to modify ion channel functions. However, very few studies have investigated the effects of MF on γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) type A receptors (GABAARs) channel functioning, which are fundamental to overall neuronal excitability. Here, our major goal is to reveal the potential effects of ELF‐MF on GABAARs activity in rat cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs). Our results indicated that exposing CGNs to 1 mT ELF‐MF for 60 min. significantly increased GABAAR currents without modifying sensitivity to GABA. However, activation of PKA by db‐cAMP failed to do so, but led to a slight decrease instead. On the other hand, PKC activation or inhibition by PMA or Bis and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) mimicked or eliminated the field‐induced‐increase of GABAAR currents. Western blot analysis indicated that the intracellular levels of phosphorylated PKC (pPKC) were significantly elevated after 60 min. of ELF‐MF exposure, which was subsequently blocked by application of DHA or EP1 receptor‐specific (prostaglandin E receptor 1) antagonist (SC19220), but not by EP2‐EP4 receptor‐specific antagonists. SC19220 also significantly inhibited the ELF‐MF‐induced elevation on GABAAR currents. Together, these data obviously demonstrated for the first time that neuronal GABAA currents are significantly increased by ELF‐MF exposure, and also suggest that these effects are mediated via an EP1 receptor‐mediated PKC pathway. Future work will focus on a more comprehensive analysis of the physiological and/or pathological consequences of these effects.
The antineoplastic properties of FTY720: evidence for the repurposing of fingolimod
Authors: Patmanathan Sathya Narayanan , Yap Lee Fah , Murray Paul G. , Paterson Ian C.
Published: July 2015

Almost all drugs approved for use in humans possess potentially beneficial ‘off‐target’ effects in addition to their principal activity. In some cases this has allowed for the relatively rapid repurposing of drugs for other indications. In this review we focus on the potential for re‐purposing FTY720 (also known as fingolimod, Gilenya™), an immunomodulatory drug recently approved for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). The therapeutic benefit of FTY720 in MS is largely attributed to the immunosuppressive effects that result from its modulation of sphingosine 1‐phosphate receptor signalling. However, this drug has also been shown to inhibit other cancer‐associated signal transduction pathways in part because of its structural similarity to sphingosine, and consequently shows efficacy as an anti‐cancer agent both in vitro and in vivo. Here, we review the effects of FTY720 on signal transduction pathways and cancer‐related cellular processes, and discuss its potential use as an anti‐cancer drug.
Berberine via suppression of transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 channel improves vascular stiffness in mice
Authors: Wang Jie , Guo Tao , Peng Qi‐Sheng , Yue Shou‐Wei , Wang Shuang‐Xi
Published: July 2015

Berberine, as an alkaloid found in many Chinese herbs, improves vascular functions in patients with cardiovascular diseases. We determined the effects of berberine in hypertension and vascular ageing, and elucidated the underlying mechanisms. In isolated aortas, berberine dose‐dependently elicited aortic relaxation. In cultured cells, berberine induced the relaxation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Overexpression of transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) channel by genetic approaches abolished the berberine‐induced reduction in intracellular Ca2+ concentration in VSMCs and attenuated berberine‐elicited vessel dilation in mice aortas. In deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)‐induced hypertensive model, treatment of mice with berberine or RN‐1734, a pharmacological inhibitor of TRPV4, significantly decreased systemic blood pressure (BP) in control mice or mice infected with an adenovirus vector. However, berberine‐induced effects of lowering BP were reversed by overexpressing TRPV4 in mice by infecting with adenovirus. Furthermore, long‐term administration of berberine decreased mean BP and pulse BP, increased artery response to vasodilator and reduced vascular collagen content in aged mice deficient in apolipoprotein E (Apoe‐KO), but not in Apoe‐KO old mice with lentivirus‐mediated overexpression of TRPV4 channel. In conclusion, berberine induces direct vasorelaxation to lower BP and reduces vascular stiffness in aged mice through suppression of TRPV4.
The European Union, Preferential Trade Agreements, and the International Regulation of Sustainable Biofuels
Authors: Poletti Arlo , Sicurelli Daniela
Published: July 2015

The EU has increasingly turned to PTAs (Preferential Trade Agreements) to spread environmental norms internationally. We argue that the rationale for this strategy is to be found in the tensions between the rigidity of the domestic dynamics of positive integration in the EU and the increased bindingness of WTO negative integration commitments. Consensual decision‐making procedures in the EU both drive the stringency of environmental regulation and make it resistant to change. When such environmental standards are challenged in the WTO, incentives arise for the EU to push for international environmental rules that can grant immunity from WTO legal challenges. When changing WTO rules is not an option, PTAs become a valid alternative. We illustrate the plausibility of our argument through an in‐depth case study of the EU's attempt to include provisions defining environmental sustainability criteria for the production of biofuels in the ongoing negotiations for a PTA with Malaysia.
New risk‐scoring system including non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease for predicting incident type 2 diabetes in East China: Shanghai Baosteel Cohort
Authors: Chen Guang‐Yu , Cao Hai‐Xia , Li Feng , Cai Xiao‐Bo , Ao Qing‐Hong , Gao Yan , Fan Jian‐Gao
Published: July 2015

Aims/Introduction

The present study aimed to explore the incidence of type 2 diabetes, and to develop a risk‐scoring model for predicting diabetes among the adult health check‐up population in East China.

Materials and Methods

Participants from the Shanghai Baosteel Cohort (age ≥20 years) without diabetes at baseline were recruited in a 6‐year follow‐up study. In order to explore risk factors for diabetes, this cohort was categorized into two groups: new diabetes and no diabetes. Three models were developed by Cox regression analysis. The model accuracy was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve.

Results

A total of 6,542 individuals were included in the Shanghai Baosteel Cohort Study. Of them, 368 (5.6%) developed type 2 diabetes at the end of the follow‐up period. Cox regression analysis found a close association between incident type 2 diabetes and several risk factors including non‐alcoholic fatty liver diseases at baseline. The Shanghai Baosteel Score including advanced age (2 points), hypertriglyceridemia (2 points), obesity (2 points), non‐alcoholic fatty liver diseases (2 points) and impaired fasting glucose (3 points) had a good diagnostic performance with estimated area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (0.724), sensitivity (57.9%) and specificity (72.2%) at a cut‐off point of >3.

Conclusions

A risk‐scoring system including non‐alcoholic fatty liver diseases can help identify individuals at a high risk of diabetes in the East Chinese population.
Bulk Fill Composites: An Anatomic Sculpting Technique
Authors: Hirata Ronaldo , Kabbach William , de Andrade Oswaldo Scopin , Bonfante Estevam A , Giannini Marcelo , Coelho Paulo Guilherme
Published: July 2015

Composite resins have been routinely used for posterior cavities due to a phasedown on amalgam as a restorative option. However, clinical problems related to polymerization shrinkage demands careful and specific techniques for placement of the composite layers. New low shrinkage composites are now marketed for bulk filling of cavities without the need of a traditional layering. With this new concept, the restoration can be built in one or two layers, depending on the classification of the bulk fill material. This article discusses and presents two alternative techniques using the low shrinkage composites, suggesting a called “amalgam‐like sculpting technique,” one using a flowable bulk fill and other a regular bulk fill material. Clinical cases illustrate these two alternatives compared with the layered technique.

Clinical Significance

New techniques using low shrinkage composites for bulk filling can provide a simpler technical approach for the clinician in sculpting and generating highly esthetic posterior composites.
Bulk‐Fill Composites, Part II
Authors: Swift Edward J.
Published: July 2015

This is the second part of a Critical Appraisal that reviews some of the recent research on bulk‐ fill composite resins.
Yield of Soybean Protein Isolate from Defatted Soybean Flakes Treated in an Industrial Plant and in Laboratory: Experiments and Modeling
Authors: Brasil Michel , Meleiro Luiz Augusto da Cruz , Benincá Cristina , Zanoelo Everton Fernando
Published: July 2015

An analysis of effects based on a statistical model was performed with a set of 40 data of yield of protein isolate (Y) as a function of five different factors from an industry of production of soybean protein isolate (SPI). At a probability level higher than 0.925, only the temperature in the desolventizer (T), and pH of the first tank of protein extraction (pH1) had a significant influence on Y. Based on this evidence, an artificial neural network model was suggested to better correlate the yield of protein isolate with the revealed significant variables (i.e., T and pH1). Multilayer perceptron networks with three to seven neurons in the one hidden layer were tested, but the best architecture involved five neurons. Over‐fitting was observed when a number of neurons larger than five was considered. The relative average deviation between measured and calculated yields was reduced from ≈3.9 to ≈1.7% when the neural model instead of the statistical one was used. A second set of 25 data of Y from laboratory experiments mimicking commercial SPI production at the designated plant confirmed the importance of T and pH1 on the examined response.

Practical Applications

The yield of protein isolate in industrial plants is dependent on many factors, which makes difficult to set and keep the process under optimal operating conditions. However, the current examination shows that the dynamic control of only the desolventizing temperature of defatted soy flakes and pH of protein extraction, based on a trained artificial neural network model, is a valid real‐time optimization strategy.
Accelerometer‐Derived Pattern of Sedentary and Physical Activity Time in Persons with Mobility Disability: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003 to 2006
Authors: Manns Patricia , Ezeugwu Victor , Armijo‐Olivo Susan , Vallance Jeff , Healy Genevieve N.
Published: July 2015

Objectives

To describe objectively determined sedentary and activity outcomes (volume and pattern) and their associations with cardiometabolic risk biomarkers in individuals with and without mobility disability.

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Setting

Population based.

Participants

Community‐dwelling older adults (≥60) living in the United States who were participants in the 2003 to 2004 or 2005 to 2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Participants were classified as with or without mobility disability according to responses to self‐reported questions about ability to walk, climb stairs, and/or use of ambulatory aids.

Measurements

Accelerometer‐derived sedentary and activity variables for volume (time in sedentary (<100 counts per minute (cpm)), very light– (100–759 cpm), light‐ (760–1,951 cpm), and moderate‐ to vigorous‐ (≥1,952 cpm) intensity activity and pattern (number of breaks from sedentary time, duration of sedentary bouts, duration of activity bouts). Survey‐weighted regression models, adjusted for age, sex, ethnicity, education, and smoking, were used to examine the associations between pattern of activity and cardiometabolic health risk factors (blood pressure, waist circumference, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol).

Results

Of the 2,017 participants, 547 were classified as having a mobility disability. Participants with mobility disability had more sedentary time and less active time than those without. Sedentary bouts were longer and active bouts shorter in those with disability. The total number of sedentary breaks (transitions from sedentary to nonsedentary) differed between groups after adjustment for total sedentary time. Fewer breaks, longer sedentary bouts, and shorter activity bouts were associated with higher average waist circumference regardless of disability status.

Conclusion

This study provides rationale for the development and testing of interventions to change the pattern of activity (e.g., include more breaks and longer activity bout durations) in older adults with mobility disability.
Older Adults’ Recognition of Trade‐Offs in Healthcare Decision‐Making
Authors: Case Siobhan M. , O'Leary John , Kim Nancy , Tinetti Mary E. , Fried Terri R.
Published: July 2015

Objectives

To examine older persons’ understanding of healthcare decision‐making involving trade‐offs.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Setting

Primary care clinics.

Participants

Community‐living persons aged 65 and older (N = 50).

Measurements

After being primed to think about trade‐offs with a focus on chronic disease management, participants were asked to describe a decision they had made in the past involving a trade‐off. If they could not, they were asked to describe a decision they might face in the future and were then given an example of a decision. They were also asked about communication with their primary care provider about their priorities when faced with a trade‐off.

Results

Forty‐four participants (88%) were able to describe a healthcare decision involving a trade‐off; 25 provided a decision in the past, 17 provided a decision they might face in the future, and two provided a future decision after hearing an example. One participant described a nonmedical decision, and two participants described goals without providing a trade‐off. Of the healthcare decisions, 26 involved surgery, seven were end‐of life decisions, seven involved treatment of chronic disease, and four involved chemotherapy. When asked whether their providers should know their health outcome priorities, 44 (88%) replied yes, and 35 (70%) believed their providers knew their priorities, but only 18 (36%) said that they had had a specific conversation about priorities.

Conclusion

The majority of participants were able to recognize the trade‐offs involved in healthcare decision‐making and wanted their providers to know their priorities regarding the trade‐offs. Despite being primed to think about the trade‐offs involved in day‐to‐day treatment of chronic disease, participants most frequently described episodic, high‐stakes decisions including surgery and end‐of‐life care.
Some reminiscences on studies of age‐dependent and activity‐dependent degeneration of sensory and motor endings in mammalian skeletal muscle
Authors: Ribchester Richard R.
Published: July 2015

I present here an overview of research on the biology of neuromuscular sensory and motor endings that was inspired and influenced partly by my educational experience in the Department of Zoology at the University of Durham, from 1971 to 1974. I allude briefly to neuromuscular synaptic structure and function in dystrophic mice, influences of activity on synapse elimination in development and regeneration, and activity‐dependent protection and degeneration of neuromuscular junctions in WldS mice.
Fibre typing of intrafusal fibres
Authors: Thornell Lars‐Eric , Carlsson Lena , Eriksson Per‐Olof , Liu Jing‐Xia , Österlund Catharina , Stål Per , Pedrosa‐Domellöf Fatima
Published: July 2015

The first descriptions of muscle spindles with intrafusal fibres containing striated myofibrils and nervous elements were given approximately 150 years ago. It took, however, another 100 years to establish the presence of two types of intrafusal muscle fibres: nuclear bag and nuclear chain fibres. The present paper highlights primarily the contribution of Robert Banks in fibre typing of intrafusal fibres: the confirmation of the principle of two types of nuclear bag fibres in mammalian spindles and the variation in occurrence of a dense M‐band along the fibres. Furthermore, this paper summarizes how studies from the Umeå University group (Laboratory of Muscle Biology in the Department of Integrative Medical Biology) on fibre typing and the structure and composition of M‐bands have contributed to the current understanding of muscle spindle complexity in adult humans as well as to muscle spindle development and effects of ageing. The variable molecular composition of the intrafusal sarcomeres with respect to myosin heavy chains and M‐band proteins gives new perspectives on the role of the intrafusal myofibrils as stretch‐activated sensors influencing tension/stiffness and signalling to nuclei.
Modulating the expression of survivin and other basal epidermal proteins protects human skin from UVB damage and oxidative stress
Authors: Labarrade Florian , Bergeron Laurine , Serre Catherine , Lebleu Alexia , Busuttil Valère , Botto Jean‐Marie , Domloge Nouha
Published: July 2015

Background

The chromosomal passenger complex (CPC) is an assembly made of four interacting proteins: survivin, borealin, INCENP, and aurora kinase B. CPC is the key regulatory complex responsible for the correct development of cellular mitosis, accompanying each step of the chromosomal segregation. This control of mitosis is particularly important in undifferentiated cells that must renew themselves and also further differentiate and specialize. The epidermis is a self‐renewing tissue that needs to continuously generate new cells through proliferation and differentiation of progenitor cells. Both the mitosis supervision by the CPC and a correct extracellular environment are physiologically required for the homeostasis of the adult keratinocyte stem cells (KSCs) of the epidermis. KSCs are mainly found in the basal layer of the epidermis and are responsible for the replenishment and maintenance of the tissue, by compensating for the loss of terminally differentiated cells called corneocytes, especially during aging.

Aim

The aim of our study was to investigate the implication of survivin in epidermal renewal and the relationships between survivin expression and UVB‐induced DNA damage levels in cultured human keratinocytes and in skin biopsies. In parallel, the effects of a treatment by compound IV08.009 were studied.

Material and methods

Cultured human keratinocytes and skin biopsies were used in this study. KSCs‐enriched fractions of keratinocytes were isolated from total keratinocytes by differential attachment to a type IV collagen matrix. Survivin expression levels were assessed by immunoblotting in cultured keratinocytes, and α6‐integrin, β1‐integrin, keratin 15, and survivin were observed after immunodetection in skin biopsies cross sections. Comet assay, immunodetection of CPDs and of cleaved‐caspase 3, and electron microscopy were used to characterize UVB‐induced DNA damage.

Results

We demonstrated the ability of compound IV08.009 to efficiently protect ex vivo skin against basal UVB‐induced damage. Moreover, comet assay studies demonstrated the efficacy of IV08.009 in protecting DNA damage from UVB stress. We found that IV08.009 protects skin from apoptosis induced by oxidative stress, ex vivo. Electron microscopy confirmed the protective efficiency of IV08.009 on cell ultrastructural damage induced by UVB exposure.

Conclusion

Compound IV08.009 demonstrated to be effective in regulating survivin expression and in preserving the basal epidermis from stresses such as UVB and H2O2. These results suggest a protective activity of IV08.009 on the essential renewing potential of KSCs.
Comparison of copper intrauterine device with levonorgestrel‐bearing intrauterine system for post‐abortion contraception
Authors: Bilgehan Fatma , Dilbaz Berna , Karadag Burak , Deveci Canan Dura
Published: July 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to compare the safety, bleeding pattern, effects, side‐effects, complications and 6‐month continuity rates of levonorgestrel‐bearing intrauterine system (LNG‐IUS) with conventional copper intrauterine device (Cu‐IUD) inserted immediately after voluntary termination of pregnancy up to 10 weeks of gestation.

Methods

One hundred women who underwent voluntary pregnancy termination and preferred IUD insertion as a contraceptive method after counseling were enrolled. The patients were randomly allocated to Cu‐IUD or LNG‐IUS and followed up at 10 days, and at 1, 3 and 6 months. The expulsion rates, continuation rates, side‐effects, and bleeding patterns were compared.

Results

Fifty women in the Cu‐IUD group and 44 women in the LNG‐IUS group were followed up. The continuity and expulsion rate for Cu‐IUD and LNG‐IUS at the end of 6 months was 74%, 12%, and 75%, 11.3%, respectively. In LNG‐IUS users, the incidence of amenorrhea and the number of spotting days were higher and hemoglobin increased throughout the follow‐up period. The side‐effects related to both methods were not different from interval insertions.

Conclusion

Immediate post‐abortion intrauterine contraception with Cu‐IUD or LNG‐IUS is a safe, reliable method. The incidence of side‐effects is similar, and there is only a slightly higher rate of expulsion but an acceptable rate of method continuation.
Male infertility and its genetic causes
Authors: Miyamoto Toshinobu , Minase Gaku , Okabe Kimika , Ueda Hiroto , Sengoku Kazuo
Published: July 2015

Aim

Infertility is a serious social problem in advanced nations, with male factor infertility accounting for approximately half of all cases of infertility. Here, we aim to discuss our laboratory results in the context of recent literature on critical genes residing on the Y chromosome or autosomes that play important roles in human spermatogenesis.

Methods

The PubMed database was systematically searched using the following keywords: ‘genetics of male factor infertility’; ‘male infertility genes’, ‘genetics of spermatogenesis’ to retrieve information for this review.

Results

Striking progress has recently been made in the elucidation of mechanisms of spermatogenesis using knockout mouse models. This information has, in many cases, not been directly translatable to humans. Nevertheless, mutations in several critical genes have been shown to cause male infertility. We discuss here the contribution to male factor infertility of a number of genes identified in the azoospermia factor (AZF) region on the Y chromosome, as well as the autosomally located genes: SYKP3, KLHL10, AURKC and SPATA16.

Conclusions

Non‐obstructive azoospermia is the most severe form of azoospermia. However, the presence of spermatozoa can only be confirmed through procedures, which may prove to be unnecessary. Elucidation of the genes underlying male factor infertility, and thereby a better understanding of the mechanisms that cause it, will result in more tailored, evidence‐based decisions in treatment of patients.
Delayed osseous metastasis from low‐grade endometrial stromal sarcoma: Uncommon occurrence deserving recognition
Authors: Chow Louis Tsun Cheung
Published: July 2015

Despite excellent prognosis, low‐grade endometrial stromal sarcoma (ESS) is notorious for late recurrence even in stage I disease. Bone metastases are distinctly rare and only six cases have so far been reported. Two patients presented with back pain due to spinal metastatic low‐grade ESS after 15 and 9 years free of disease after resection of the stage 1 primary uterine tumor. Plain radiograph showed an ivory first lumbar vertebra in the first patient and an osteolytic lesion involving the second thoracic vertebra in the second. In both cases, magnetic resonance imaging showed vertebral tumor with intra‐spinal extension and spinal cord compression; biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of metastatic low‐grade ESS. The first patient received palliative radiotherapy and chemotherapy while the second underwent surgical decompression followed by adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The neurologic symptoms in both patients returned 12 months afterwards and progressed relentlessly despite adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The first patient developed multiple bone and lung metastasis, culminating in death 44 months after recurrence. While surviving at 24 months from recurrent disease, the second became paraplegic with double incontinence and was wheelchair bound. Delayed osseous metastatic low‐grade ESS, although uncommon, deserves recognition given the predilection for spine as the site of involvement. In such a location, where complete surgical removal is notoriously difficult, if not impossible, the prognosis of spinal metastatic low‐grade ESS appears grave with considerable morbidity and mortality.
Antepartum reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome with pre‐eclampsia and reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy
Authors: Tanaka Kei , Matsushima Miho , Matsuzawa Yukiko , Wachi Yuichi , Izawa Tomoko , Sakai Keiji , Kobayashi Yoichi , Iwashita Mitsutoshi
Published: July 2015

Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is characterized by severe headache and diffuse segmental constriction of the cerebral arteries that resolves spontaneously within a few months. Pregnancy is one of the precipitating factors of RCVS and most of the reported cases occurred in the post‐partum period. We report a case of RCVS that occurred in a pregnant women with pre‐eclampsia during her antepartum period. A 34‐year‐old woman in full‐term pregnancy presented with a severe and acute headache. Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) showed multiple segmental constrictions of the cerebral arteries. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a high‐intensity lesion in the left occipital lobe, consistent with reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome, on fluid attenuated inversion recovery sequences. The case was also complicated by severe pre‐eclampsia and the patient underwent emergency cesarean section. Although her symptoms resolved rapidly, MRA revealed new lesions of arterial constriction 4 days after onset. The vasoconstriction completely resolved on MRA after 10 days and the patient was discharged without neurological sequelae.
Stepfather–Adolescent Relationship Quality During the First Year of Transitioning to a Stepfamily
Authors: King Valarie , Amato Paul R. , Lindstrom Rachel
Published: July 2015

This study contributes to the growing literature on factors associated with the formation of close relationships between stepfathers and stepchildren. The authors extend prior research by using nationally representative data from Add Health (N = 179) to examine how factors existing prior to stepfamily formation are associated with the quality of stepfather–adolescent ties within the first year after married stepfathers join the household. Results from structural equation models revealed that both the quality of the mother–adolescent relationship and adolescent adjustment prior to stepfamily formation were significantly associated with the perceived quality of adolescents' relationships with their stepfathers.
Parental Work Schedules and Child Overweight or Obesity: Does Family Structure Matter?
Authors: Miller Daniel P. , Chang Jina
Published: July 2015

The authors used longitudinal data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study (N = 5,482) to investigate whether maternal and paternal work schedules affect child overweight or obesity. They took the novel step of examining whether this effect is consistent for children living in different family structures. Findings from child fixed effects models suggest that the probability of child overweight or obesity was higher for children living with mothers who worked standard shifts at a primary job and nonstandard shifts at a secondary job compared to children living with mothers who worked a standard shift at a primary job only. Fathers' work schedules were not associated with child overweight or obesity. Unexpectedly, maternal standard shift work at a primary job and nonstandard shift work at a secondary job was associated with overweight or obesity only among children living with married biological parents.
Pain and problems: a prospective cross‐sectional study of the impact of dental emergencies
Authors: Currie C. C. , Stone S. J. , Durham J.
Published: July 2015

One‐third of the population will only attend the dentist for an acute problem, often waiting a period of time before presenting. The objective of this study was to investigate the levels of pain in patients presenting for a dental emergency and the impact this had on their quality of life. Questionnaires were provided to adult patients attending dental emergency services over 1 week. Demographic and clinical details were collected. Quality of life was measured using EQ‐5D‐5L. Pain and the interference it caused were examined using the graded chronic pain scale. Data were analysed in STATA using descriptive statistics, Mann–Whitney and chi‐squared tests. Results showed that majority of patients (64%) seen were male; the mean age was 36 (±14) years. Forty six per cent of patients reported having a general dental practitioner. One‐third of the patients had attended this service previously for emergency care, and 13% consulted for the same problem. The mean duration of pain was 17·7 (±52·3) days prior to seeking care. The mean characteristic pain intensity was 53·6 (±23·6). The mean disability score was 43·4 (±33·6). The mean EQ‐5D‐5L score was 0·57 (±0·27). In conclusion, a large number of patients attend the emergency dental services despite being ‘registered’ with a general dental practitioner. A proportion of these individuals will re‐attend for the same condition. Patients will often be in pain for over 2 weeks before attending, which may have a significant impact on their quality of life. Further research is warranted to investigate these care‐seeking behaviours and patterns.
Comparison of approaches to rheumatic fever surveillance across Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development countries
Authors: Oliver Jane , Baker Michael G , Pierse Nevil , Carapetis Jonathan
Published: July 2015

Aim

Rheumatic fever (RF) prevention, control and surveillance are increasingly important priorities in New Zealand (NZ) and Australia. We compared RF surveillance across Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD) member countries to assist in benchmarking and identifying useful approaches.

Methods

A structured literature review was completed using Medline and PubMed databases, investigating RF incidence rates. Surveillance methods were noted. Health department websites were searched to assess whether addressing RF was a Government priority.

Results

Of 32 OECD member countries, nine reported RF incidence rates after 1999. Highest rates were seen in indigenous Australians, and NZ Māori and Pacific peoples. NZ and Australian surveillance systems are highly developed, with notification and register data compiled regularly. Only these two Governments appeared to prioritise RF surveillance and control. Other countries relied mainly on hospitalisation data. There is a lack of standardisation across incidence rate calculations. Israel and Italy may have relatively high RF rates among developed countries.

Conclusions

RF lingers in specific populations in OECD member countries. At a minimum, RF registers are needed in higher incidence countries. Countries with low RF incidences should periodically review surveillance information to ensure rates are not increasing.
Association of oxidative status and insulin sensitivity in periparturient dairy cattle: an observational study
Authors: Abuelo A. , Hernández J. , Benedito J. L. , Castillo C.
Published: July 2015

Post‐parturient insulin resistance (IR) is a common feature in all mammalian animals. However, in dairy cows, it can be exacerbated because of high milk yield, leading to excessive negative energy balance, which is related with increased disease incidence, reduced milk production and worsened reproductive performance. IR has been extensively investigated in humans suffering from diabetes mellitus. In these subjects, it is known that oxidative stress (OS) plays a causative role in the onset of IR. Although OS occurs in transitional dairy cattle, there are yet no studies that investigated the association between IR and OS in dairy cattle. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate whether there is a relationship between OS and IR in dairy cattle. Serum samples were taken repeatedly from 22 dairy cows from 2 months prior to the expected calving date to 2 months after calving and were analysed for markers of metabolic and redox balance. Surrogate indices of insulin sensitivity were also calculated. Generalised linear mixed models revealed an effect of the oxidative status on peripheral insulin concentration and on indices of insulin sensitivity. Hence, field trials should investigate the effectiveness of antioxidant therapy on insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues during the transition period of dairy cattle.
A Randomized Prospective Double-Blind Comparison Trial of Clomiphene Citrate and Anastrozole in Raising Testosterone in Hypogonadal Infertile Men
Authors: Helo Sevann , Ellen Joseph , Mechlin Clay , Feustel Paul , Grossman Michael , Ditkoff Edward , McCullough Andrew
Published: July 2015

Aim

Clomiphene citrate (CC) and anastrozole (AZ) have been used off label to increase testosterone (T) in hypogonadal infertile men (HIM). Both medications have been shown to increase T with different effects on estradiol (E2) and T-to-E2 ratios. There are no reported randomized trials comparing CC and AZ to improve T levels in HIM. We aimed to establish equivalence of CC vs. AZ with respect to improvement in T levels in HIM.

Methods

We randomized 26 HIM (T less than 350 ng/dL and normal luteinizing hormone [LH]). Patients were randomized to CC (25 mg/day) or AZ (1 mg/day) for 12 weeks. Hormones assayed were total T, free T, E2, LH, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). Patient-reported outcomes were the International Index of Erectile Function, Erection Hardness Scale, and the Androgen Deficiency in the Aging Male questionnaires. Blood tests and questionnaires were recorded at baseline, 6 and 12 weeks. Semen analyses were performed at baseline and 12 weeks.

Results

T increased significantly from baseline in both groups at 6 and 12 weeks. There was a significantly larger increase in T and mean increase from baseline in CC vs. AZ (571 vs. 408 ng/dL, respectively). Whereas E-2 levels increased in the CC group, they decreased in the AZ group. Though both groups demonstrated an increase in T-to-E-2 ratio from baseline, statistic significance at 6 and 12 weeks was only achieved with AZ. Neither group demonstrated significant changes in seminal parameters or patient-reported outcomes.

Conclusions

We failed to demonstrate equivalence of CC vs. AZ. CC resulted in significantly higher T levels than AZ. AZ resulted in a significantly larger increase in T/E-2 ratio than CC. No significant differences between CC and AZ on seminal parameters or patient-reported outcomes were demonstrated.
Patient, family, and provider complex care situations in pediatric acute medical care: Creation of the Red Flags Situation Assessment Tool
Authors: Steinmiller Elizabeth A. , Ely Elizabeth
Published: July 2015

Purpose

To develop and test a questionnaire to identify situations among patients, families, and providers that lead to complex pediatric medical care in a tertiary hospital setting.

Design

A mixed methods approach was used. Qualitative content analysis of hospital documents was conducted to develop questionnaire items. Psychometric analyses were used to measure reliability, and factor analysis was used to reduce instrument length.

Results

A 54‐item questionnaire with 11 categories was distributed to 205 nurses and medical staff. Psychometric analysis of responses identified a final refined tool with 31 items comprised of six factors.

Practice Implications

The Red Flags Situation Assessment Tool can be used to identify complex care situations and address them earlier in a hospital course to avoid challenges to providing patient‐ and family‐centered care.
Sleep deprivation selectively disrupts top–down adaptation to cognitive conflict in the Stroop test
Authors: Gevers Wim , Deliens Gaetane , Hoffmann Sophie , Notebaert Wim , Peigneux Philippe
Published: July 2015

Sleep deprivation is known to exert detrimental effects on various cognitive domains, including attention, vigilance and working memory. Seemingly at odds with these findings, prior studies repeatedly failed to evidence an impact of prior sleep deprivation on cognitive interference in the Stroop test, a hallmark paradigm in the study of cognitive control abilities. The present study investigated further the effect of sleep deprivation on cognitive control using an adapted version of the Stroop test that allows to segregate top–down (attentional reconfiguration on incongruent items) and bottom–up (facilitated processing after repetitions in responses and/or features of stimuli) components of performance. Participants underwent a regular night of sleep or a night of total sleep deprivation before cognitive testing. Results disclosed that sleep deprivation selectively impairs top–down adaptation mechanisms: cognitive control no longer increased upon detection of response conflict at the preceding trial. In parallel, bottom–up abilities were found unaffected by sleep deprivation: beneficial effects of stimulus and response repetitions persisted. Changes in vigilance states due to sleep deprivation selectively impact on cognitive control in the Stroop test by affecting top–down, but not bottom–up, mechanisms that guide adaptive behaviours.
Psychological proximity and the construal of crime: A commentary on ‘Mapping fear of crime as a context‐dependent everyday experience that varies in space and time’
Authors: Jackson Jonathan , Gouseti Ioanna
Published: July 2015

Fear of crime is a dynamic psychosocial phenomenon, and sophisticated methodologies are necessary in order to explore its multidimensionality and complexity. The experience sampling method (ESM) that is used by Solymosi and colleagues (2015) is a promising methodological way forward in fear of crime research. While acknowledging the advantages of ESM, in this commentary we discuss a potential disadvantage of the method, namely the possibility that ESM can increase the psychological proximity of crime. Drawing upon construal‐level theory of psychological distance, we argue that ESM might sensitize people to think about crime through the lens of personal risk, with a knock‐on effect on the construal of crime.
Fibrinogen storage disease and cirrhosis associated with hypobetalipoproteinemia owing to fibrinogen Aguadilla in a Turkish child
Authors: Sari Sinan , Yilmaz Guldal , Gonul Ipek I. , Dalgic Buket , Akyol Gulen , Giovannoni Isabella , Francalanci Paola , Callea Francesco
Published: July 2015

Background and Aims

Fibrinogen gene mutations can rarely result in hepatic fibrinogen storage disease (HFSD). Herein, we report on the first Turkish family carrying the mutation p.Arg375Trp (fibrinogen Aguadilla) in the γ‐chain of the fibrinogen (FGG) gene.

Methods

Clinical, laboratory and histopathological findings of the patient were documented. Molecular study of fibrinogen gene was performed in the patient and her family members.

Results

The proband was 5 years old girl presenting with advanced liver fibrosis of unknown origin. The child had very low plasma levels of fibrinogen and hypobetalipoproteinemia. Immunomorphologic and electron microscopic studies showed selective and exclusive accumulation of fibrinogen within the endoplasmic reticulum in liver biopsy of the patient. Patient, mother, two sisters and one brother carried p.Arg375Trp mutation (fibrinogen Aguadilla) in FGG gene. The patient was treated with ursodeoxycholic acid and carbamazepine. After 3 months, carbamazepine was suspended upon family decision and unresponsiveness of carbamazepine.

Conclusions

HFSD is characterized by hypofibrinogenemia and accumulation of abnormal fibrinogen within hepatocytes. In addition, hypofibrinogenemia is associated with hypobetalipoproteinemia in Aguadilla mutation.
Ancestral origins and invasion pathways in a globally invasive bird correlate with climate and influences from bird trade
Authors: Jackson Hazel , Strubbe Diederik , Tollington Simon , Prys‐Jones Robert , Matthysen Erik , Groombridge Jim J.
Published: July 2015

Invasive species present a major threat to global biodiversity. Understanding genetic patterns and evolutionary processes that reinforce successful establishment is paramount for elucidating mechanisms underlying biological invasions. Among birds, the ring‐necked parakeet (Psittacula krameri) is one of the most successful invasive species, established in over 35 countries. However, little is known about the evolutionary genetic origins of this species and what population genetic signatures tell us about patterns of invasion. We reveal the ancestral origins of populations across the invasive range and explore the potential influence of climate and propagule pressure from the pet trade on observed genetic patterns. Ring‐necked parakeet samples representing the ancestral native range (n = 96) were collected from museum specimens, and modern samples from the invasive range (n = 855) were gathered from across Europe, Mauritius and Seychelles, and sequenced for two mitochondrial DNA markers comprising 868 bp of cytochrome b and control region, and genotyped at 10 microsatellite loci. Invasive populations comprise birds that originate predominantly from Pakistan and northern areas of India. Haplotypes associated with more northerly distribution limits in the ancestral native range were more prevalent in invasive populations in Europe, and the predominance of Asian haplotypes in Europe is consistent with the higher number of Asian birds transported by the pet trade outside the native range. Successful establishment of invasive species is likely to be underpinned by a combination of environmental and anthropogenic influences.
Genomic architecture of habitat‐related divergence and signature of directional selection in the body shapes ofGnathopogonfishes
Authors: Kakioka Ryo , Kokita Tomoyuki , Kumada Hiroki , Watanabe Katsutoshi , Okuda Noboru
Published: July 2015

Evolution of ecomorphologically relevant traits such as body shapes is important to colonize and persist in a novel environment. Habitat‐related adaptive divergence of these traits is therefore common among animals. We studied the genomic architecture of habitat‐related divergence in the body shape ofGnathopogonfishes, a novel example of lake–stream ecomorphological divergence, and tested for the action of directional selection on body shape differentiation. Compared to stream‐dwellingGnathopogon elongatus,the sister speciesGnathopogon caerulescens,exclusively inhabiting a large ancient lake, had an elongated body, increased proportion of the caudal region and small head, which would be advantageous in the limnetic environment. Using an F2interspecific cross between the twoGnathopogonspecies (195 individuals), quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis with geometric morphometric quantification of body shape and restriction‐site associatedDNAsequencing‐derived markers (1622 loci) identified 26 significantQTLs associated with the interspecific differences of body shape‐related traits. TheseQTLs had small to moderate effects, supporting polygenic inheritance of the body shape‐related traits. EachQTLwas mostly located on different genomic regions, while colocalizedQTLs were detected for some ecomorphologically relevant traits that are proxy of body and caudal peduncle depths, suggesting different degree of modularity among traits. The directions of the body shapeQTLs were mostly consistent with the interspecific difference, andQTLsign test suggested a genetic signature of directional selection in the body shape divergence. Thus, we successfully elucidated the genomic architecture underlying the adaptive changes of the quantitative and complex morphological trait in a novel system.
A population study of killer viruses reveals different evolutionary histories of two closely related Saccharomyces sensu stricto yeasts
Authors: Chang Shang‐Lin , Leu Jun‐Yi , Chang Tien‐Hsien
Published: July 2015

Microbes have evolved ways of interference competition to gain advantage over their ecological competitors. The use of secreted killer toxins by yeast cells through acquiring double‐stranded RNA viruses is one such prominent example. Although the killer behaviour has been well studied in laboratory yeast strains, our knowledge regarding how killer viruses are spread and maintained in nature and how yeast cells co‐evolve with viruses remains limited. We investigated these issues using a panel of 81 yeast populations belonging to three Saccharomyces sensu stricto species isolated from diverse ecological niches and geographic locations. We found that killer strains are rare among all three species. In contrast, killer toxin resistance is widespread in Saccharomyces paradoxus populations, but not in Saccharomyces cerevisiae or Saccharomyces eubayanus populations. Genetic analyses revealed that toxin resistance in S. paradoxus is often caused by dominant alleles that have independently evolved in different populations. Molecular typing identified one M28 and two types of M1 killer viruses in those killer strains. We further showed that killer viruses of the same type could lead to distinct killer phenotypes under different host backgrounds, suggesting co‐evolution between the viruses and hosts in different populations. Taken together, our data suggest that killer viruses vary in their evolutionary histories even within closely related yeast species.
History matters more when explaining genetic diversity within the context of the core–periphery hypothesis
Authors: Duncan Sarah I. , Crespi Erica J. , Mattheus Nichole M. , Rissler Leslie J.
Published: July 2015

The core–periphery hypothesis (CPH) predicts that populations located at the periphery of a species' range should have lower levels of genetic variation than those at the centre of the range. However, most of the research on the CPH focuses on geographic distance and not on ecological distance, or uses categorical definitions of core and periphery to explain the distribution of genetic diversity. We use current climate data and historical climate data from the last glacial maxima to develop quantitative estimates of contemporary and historical ecological suitability using ecological niche models. We analysed genetic diversity using 12 polymorphic microsatellites to estimate changes in heterozygosity, allelic richness and population differentiation in 31 populations of the wood frog (Lithobates sylvaticus) spanning the species’ entire eastern clade (33o to 45o latitude) from Alabama, USA, to Nova Scotia, Canada. Our data support predictions based on the CPH. Populations showed significant differences in genetic diversity across the range, with lower levels of genetic variation at the geographic range edge and in areas with lower levels of historical and contemporary ecological suitability. However, history and geography (not current ecological suitability) best explain the patterns. This study highlights the importance of examining more than just geography when assessing the CPH, and the importance of historical ecological suitability in the maintenance of genetic diversity and population differentiation.