bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthetic biology approaches to improve biocatalyst identification in metagenomic library screening
Authors: Guazzaroni María‐Eugenia , Silva‐Rocha Rafael , Ward Richard John
Published: August 2014

There is a growing demand for enzymes with improved catalytic performance or tolerance to process‐specific parameters, and biotechnology plays a crucial role in the development of biocatalysts for use in industry, agriculture, medicine and energy generation. Metagenomics takes advantage of the wealth of genetic and biochemical diversity present in the genomes of microorganisms found in environmental samples, and provides a set of new technologies directed towards screening for new catalytic activities from environmental samples with potential biotechnology applications. However, biased and low level of expression of heterologous proteins in Escherichia coli together with the use of non‐optimal cloning vectors for the construction of metagenomic libraries generally results in an extremely low success rate for enzyme identification. The bottleneck arising from inefficient screening of enzymatic activities has been addressed from several perspectives; however, the limitations related to biased expression in heterologous hosts cannot be overcome by using a single approach, but rather requires the synergetic implementation of multiple methodologies. Here, we review some of the principal constraints regarding the discovery of new enzymes in metagenomic libraries and discuss how these might be resolved by using synthetic biology methods.
Relationship between mid‐trimester ultrasound fetal liver length measurements and gestational diabetes mellitus 妊娠中期三个月超声测量的胎儿肝脏长度与妊娠期糖尿病之间的关系
Authors: Perovic Milan , Gojnic Miroslava , Arsic Biljana , Pantic Igor , Stefanovic Tomislav , Kovacevic Gordana , Kovacevic Milica , Garalejic Eliana , Dugalic Stefan , Radakovic Jovana , Babic Uros , Isenovic Esma R.
Published: August 2014

Background

The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between mid‐trimester ultrasound fetal liver length (FLL) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in a high‐risk population.

Methods

A prospective study was performed in 331 women with singleton pregnancies who were at high risk of GDM and were undergoing a mid‐trimester ultrasound examination. The ultrasound scan at 23 weeks gestation was followed by a 100‐g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) at 24 weeks gestation. Correlations between FLL and OGTT results at different time points were tested. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis of FLL as a potential prognostic factor for GDM was also performed.

Results

In GDM patients, there was a significant positive correlation (P < 0.01) between FLL and OGTT glycemia immediately before and 60, 120, and 180 min after glucose intake. Mean FLL in GDM was significantly higher than in healthy subjects (41.04 vs 31.09 mm, respectively; P < 0.001). When tested as a potential prognostic factor for GDM, fetal liver measurements showed excellent diagnostic performance. The ROC analysis established a cut‐off value of FLL of 39 mm for the prediction GDM, with sensitivity of 71.76%, specificity 97.56%, positive predictive value 91.0%, and negative predictive value 90.9%. The usefulness of FLL measurements was supported by a high area under the ROC curve (90.5%).

Conclusion

In conclusion, there is a strong correlation between FLL and OGTT results, with FLL possibly serving as a valid marker for the prediction of GDM in high‐risk populations.
Chronic loss of noradrenergic tone produces β‐arrestin2‐mediated cocaine hypersensitivity and alters cellular D2 responses in the nucleus accumbens
Authors: Gaval‐Cruz Meriem , Goertz Richard B. , Puttick Daniel J. , Bowles Dawn E. , Meyer Rebecca C. , Hall Randy A. , Ko Daijin , Paladini Carlos A. , Weinshenker David
Published: August 2014

Cocaine blocks plasma membrane monoamine transporters and increases extracellular levels of dopamine (DA), norepinephrine (NE) and serotonin (5‐HT). The addictive properties of cocaine are mediated primarily by DA, while NE and 5‐HT play modulatory roles. Chronic inhibition of dopamine β‐hydroxylase (DBH), which converts DA to NE, increases the aversive effects of cocaine and reduces cocaine use in humans, and produces behavioral hypersensitivity to cocaine and D2 agonism in rodents, but the underlying mechanism is unknown. We found a decrease in β‐arrestin2 (βArr2) in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) following chronic genetic or pharmacological DBH inhibition, and overexpression of βArr2 in the NAc normalized cocaine‐induced locomotion in DBH knockout (Dbh −/−) mice. The D2/3 agonist quinpirole decreased excitability in NAc medium spiny neurons (MSNs) from control, but not Dbh −/− animals, where instead there was a trend for an excitatory effect. The Gαi inhibitor NF023 abolished the quinpirole‐induced decrease in excitability in control MSNs, but had no effect in Dbh −/− MSNs, whereas the Gαs inhibitor NF449 restored the ability of quinpirole to decrease excitability in Dbh −/− MSNs, but had no effect in control MSNs. These results suggest that chronic loss of noradrenergic tone alters behavioral responses to cocaine via decreases in βArr2 and cellular responses to D2/D3 activation, potentially via changes in D2‐like receptor G‐protein coupling in NAc MSNs.
Toxic uncertainties of a nuclear era: Anthropology, history, memoir
Authors: GOLDSTEIN DONNA M.
Published: August 2014

New narratives of toxic contamination are expanding and challenging our ethnographic sensibilities. In confronting the contamination left behind from the Cold War period, a range of disciplinary approaches, methods, and writing styles is necessary. Ethnography plays a crucial role here, but it cannot fly solo in these sorts of projects. In this review essay, I compare three books from authors belonging to distinct scholarly traditions, each one dealing with complicated cases of radioactive contamination that began in the Cold War era and that demand rethinking in the contemporary one. Anthropologists have much to learn from approaches pursued in other disciplines, particularly if the end goal is a more holistic portrait of contamination and toxicity.
Real‐time in vivo periprostatic nerve tracking using multiphoton microscopy in a rat survival surgery model: a promising pre‐clinical study for enhanced nerve‐sparing surgery
Authors: Durand Matthieu , Jain Manu , Aggarwal Amit , Robinson Brian D. , Srivastava Abhishek , Smith Rebecca , Sooriakumaran Prasanna , Loeffler Joyce , Pumill Chris , Amiel Jean , Chevallier Daniel , Mukherjee Sushmita , Tewari Ashutosh K.
Published: August 2014

Objectives

To assess the ability of multiphoton microscopy (MPM) to visualise, differentiate and track periprostatic nerves in an in vivo rat model, mimicking real‐time imaging in humans during RP and to investigate the tissue toxicity and reproducibility of in vivo MPM on prostatic glands in the rat after imaging and final histological correlation study.

Materials and Methods

In vivo prostatic rat imaging was carried out using a custom‐built bench‐top MPM system generating real‐time three‐dimensional histological images, after performing survival surgery consisting of mini‐laparotomies under xylazine/ketamine anaesthesia exteriorising the right prostatic lobe. The acquisition time and the depth of anaesthesia were adjusted for collecting multiple images in order to track the periprostatic nerves in real‐time. The rats were then monitored for 15 days before undergoing a new set of imaging under similar settings. After humanely killing the rats, their prostates were submitted for routine histology and correlation studies.

Results

In vivo MPM images distinguished periprostatic nerves within the capsule and the prostatic glands from fresh unprocessed prostatic tissue without the use of exogenous contrast agents or biopsy sample. Real‐time nerve tracking outlining the prostate was feasible and acquisition was not disturbed by motion artefacts. No serious adverse event was reported during rat monitoring; no tissue damage due to laser was seen on the imaged lobe compared with the contralateral lobe (control) allowing comparison of their corresponding histology.

Conclusions

For the first time, we have shown that in vivo tracking of periprostatic nerves using MPM is feasible in a rat model. Development of a multiphoton endoscope for intraoperative use in humans is currently in progress and must be assessed.
Are Assemblages of Aquatic‐Breeding Anurans (Amphibia) Niches Structured or Neutral?
Authors: Melo Muryllo , Fava Fernanda , Pinto Hugo B. , Nomura Fausto
Published: August 2014

Local niche‐based processes and dispersal are important determinants of assemblage composition and species diversity. However, there is no consensus about the relative importance of niche and spatial processes to explain the distribution of anuran species in tropical systems. In our study, we analyzed the niche and neutral effects on anuran assemblages and found that biotic interactions were a predictor of assemblage structure. The Eltonian concept of niche was the best predictor for the structure of aquatic‐breeding anuran assemblages, as species tended to co‐occur more often than would be expected by chance. We suggest that the lack of environmental effect could be explained by differences in the pattern of movement between arboreal and non‐arboreal anurans. Once there is a reduction in the number of arboreal anurans in open areas, the importance of habitat heterogeneity to explain assemblage composition should decrease. The lack of correlation between the spatial component in our model and species composition is evidence that spatial processes, such as migration, did not play a major role in structuring local assemblages. Anurans are generally assumed as having poor dispersal ability, yet this assumption is not true for all anuran species. We suggest that future studies should include key behavioral traits, such as site fidelity and homing behavior, as these traits can represent the dispersal abilities of anurans and dispersal ability seems to be important when we try to predict patterns of anuran distribution.
Complotype affects the extent of down-regulation by Factor I of the C3b feedback cyclein vitro
Authors: Lay E , Nutland S , Smith J E , Hiles I , Smith R A G , Seilly D J , Buchberger A , Schwaeble W , Lachmann P J
Published: August 2014

Sera from a large panel of normal subjects were typed for three common polymorphisms, one in C3 (R102G) and two in Factor H (V62I and Y402H), that influence predisposition to age-related macular degeneration and to some forms of kidney disease. Three groups of sera were tested; those that were homozygous for the three risk alleles; those that were heterozygous for all three; and those homozygous for the low-risk alleles. These groups vary in their response to the addition of exogenous Factor I when the alternative complement pathway is activated by zymosan. Both the reduction in the maximum amount of iC3b formed and the rate at which the iC3b is converted to C3dg are affected. For both reactions the at-risk complotype requires higher doses of Factor I to produce similar down-regulation. Because iC3b reacting with the complement receptor CR3 is a major mechanism by which complement activation gives rise to inflammation, the breakdown of iC3b to C3dg can be seen to have major significance for reducing complement-induced inflammation. These findings demonstrate for the first time that sera from subjects with different complement alleles behave as predicted in an in-vitro assay of the down-regulation of the alternative complement pathway by increasing the concentration of Factor I. These results support the hypothesis that exogenous Factor I may be a valuable therapeutic aid for down-regulating hyperactivity of the C3b feedback cycle, thereby providing a treatment for age-related macular degeneration and other inflammatory diseases of later life.
Phenotypic spectrum associated with PTCHD1 deletions and truncating mutations includes intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Chaudhry A. , Noor A. , Degagne B. , Baker K. , Bok L. A. , Brady A. F. , Chitayat D. , Chung B. H. , Cytrynbaum C. , Dyment D. , Filges I. , Helm B. , Hutchison H. T. , Jeng L. J. B. , Laumonnier F. , Marshall C. R. , Menzel M. , Parkash S. , Parker M. J. ,   The DDD Study, Raymond L. F. , Rideout A. L. , Roberts W. , Rupps R. , Schanze I. , Schrander‐Stumpel C. T. R. M. , Speevak M. D. , Stavropoulos D. J. , Stevens S. J. C. , Thomas E. R. A. , Toutain A. , Vergano S. , Weksberg R. , Scherer S. W. , Vincent J. B. , Carter M. T.
Published: August 2014

Studies of genomic copy number variants (CNVs) have identified genes associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disability (ID) such as NRXN1, SHANK2, SHANK3 and PTCHD1. Deletions have been reported in PTCHD1 however there has been little information available regarding the clinical presentation of these individuals. Herein we present 23 individuals with PTCHD1 deletions or truncating mutations with detailed phenotypic descriptions. The results suggest that individuals with disruption of the PTCHD1 coding region may have subtle dysmorphic features including a long face, prominent forehead, puffy eyelids and a thin upper lip. They do not have a consistent pattern of associated congenital anomalies or growth abnormalities. They have mild to moderate global developmental delay, variable degrees of ID, and many have prominent behavioral issues. Over 40% of subjects have ASD or ASD‐like behaviors. The only consistent neurological findings in our cohort are orofacial hypotonia and mild motor incoordination. Our findings suggest that hemizygous PTCHD1 loss of function causes an X‐linked neurodevelopmental disorder with a strong propensity to autistic behaviors. Detailed neuropsychological studies are required to better define the cognitive and behavioral phenotype.
Serum LDL cholesterol levels and new onset of arterial hypertension: an 8‐year follow‐up
Authors: Cicero Arrigo F.G. , Rosticci Martina , Baronio Cristina , Morbini Martino , Parini Angelo , Grandi Elisa , D'Addato Sergio , Borghi Claudio ,   the Brisighella Heart Study Group
Published: August 2014

Background

Serum cholesterol has been demonstrated to correlate with blood pressure values; therefore, abnormal levels of serum cholesterol might contribute to the development of hypertension. The aim of this study was to assess the new onset of hypertension over a period of 8 years in a pharmacologically untreated population sample in normo‐ and hypercholesterolemic individuals.

Design

1864 Caucasian subjects with baseline blood pressure values <140/90 mmHg were subdivided into two different groups, according to LDL cholesterol changes observed over a period of 8 years. Group 1 included subjects whose LDL cholesterol levels remained or decreased within the normal range, while Group 2 included those whose LDL cholesterol levels were persistently increased above the normal range. The 8‐year incidence of new‐onset hypertension was 7·1% in Group 1 and 13·8% in Group 2 (P = 0·02), after adjustment for the main confounding risk factors. The difference between Groups 1 and 2 was confirmed in men (8·2 vs. 13·1%, P = 0·04) and women (6·1. vs. 14·5%, P = 006), as well as in subjects younger than 65 years (5·7 vs. 10·9%; P = 0·011), but not in older ones.

Conclusions

Baseline serum LDL cholesterol levels are related to the rate of new‐onset hypertension in patients with normal or marginally elevated blood pressure values.
Lineage‐specific evolution of cnidarian Wnt ligands
Authors: Hensel Katrin , Lotan Tamar , Sanders Steve M. , Cartwright Paulyn , Frank Uri
Published: August 2014

We have studied the evolution of Wnt genes in cnidarians and the expression pattern of all Wnt ligands in the hydrozoan Hydractinia echinata. Current views favor a scenario in which 12 Wnt sub‐families were jointly inherited by cnidarians and bilaterians from their last common ancestor. Our phylogenetic analyses clustered all medusozoan genes in distinct, well‐supported clades, but many orthologous relationships between medusozoan Wnts and anthozoan and bilaterian Wnt genes were poorly supported. Only seven anthozoan genes, Wnt2, Wnt4, Wnt5, Wnt6, Wnt 10, Wnt11, and Wnt16 were recovered with strong support with bilaterian genes and of those, only the Wnt2, Wnt5, Wnt11, and Wnt16 clades also included medusozoan genes. Although medusozoan Wnt8 genes clustered with anthozoan and bilaterian genes, this was not well supported. In situ hybridization studies revealed poor conservation of expression patterns of putative Wnt orthologs within Cnidaria. In polyps, only Wnt1, Wnt3, and Wnt7 were expressed at the same position in the studied cnidarian models Hydra, Hydractinia, and Nematostella. Different expression patterns are consistent with divergent functions. Our data do not fully support previous assertions regarding Wnt gene homology, and suggest a more complex history of Wnt family genes than previously suggested. This includes high rates of sequence divergence and lineage‐specific duplications of Wnt genes within medusozoans, followed by functional divergence over evolutionary time scales.
The ontogenetic origins of skull shape disparity in the Triturus cristatus group
Authors: Cvijanović Milena , Ivanović Ana , Kalezić Miloš L. , Zelditch Miriam L.
Published: August 2014

Comparative studies of ontogenies of closely related species provide insights into the mechanisms responsible for morphological diversification. Using geometric morphometrics, we investigated the ontogenetic dynamics of postlarval skull shape and disparity in three closely related crested newt species. The skull shapes of juveniles just after metamorphosis (hereafter metamorphs) and adult individuals were sampled by landmark configurations that describe the shape of the dorsal and ventral side of the newt skull, and analyzed separately. The three species differ in skull size and shape in metamorphs and adults. The ontogenies of dorsal and ventral skull differ in the orientation but not lengths of the ontogenetic trajectories. The disparity of dorsal skull shape increases over ontogeny, but that of ventral skull shape does not. Thus, modifications of ontogenetic trajectories can, but need not, increase the disparity of shape. In species with biphasic life‐cycles, when ontogenetic trajectories for one stage can be decoupled from those of another, increases and decreases in disparity are feasible, but our results show that they need not occur.
Stress intensity factor estimation for unbalanced rotating cracked shafts by artificial neural networks
Authors: Muñoz‐Abella B. , Rubio L. , Rubio P.
Published: August 2014

The knowledge of the stress intensity factor (SIF) values along a crack front is essential to calculate the crack growth rate and the remaining life of a mechanical component. In the case of a rotating shaft, usually it presents disalignments, which modify the SIF data with regard to a balanced one. This paper presents the use of an artificial neural network (ANN) for estimating the SIF at the crack front in an unbalanced shaft under rotating bending, previously, a quasi‐static numerical (finite element) model, which simulates a rotating shaft, has been developed to create the training cases for the ANN. The obtained results allow to study the influence of the unbalance of rotating shafts in the crack breathing mechanism and will allow to predict the influence of this behaviour on the values of the SIF and in the propagation of cracks.
Fluorescence in‐situ hybridization identifies Mastermind‐like 2 (MAML2) rearrangement in odontogenic cysts with mucous prosoplasia: a pilot study
Authors: Argyris Prokopios P , Wehrs Rebecca N , García Joaquín J , Koutlas Ioannis G
Published: August 2014

Aims

The pathogenesis of intraosseous mucoepidermoid carcinoma (IMEC) remains unknown. Coexistence with odontogenic cysts (ODC) has been reported in 32–48% of IMEC. Furthermore, prosoplastic mucous cells are often seen in the epithelial lining of ODCs. MECT1–MAML2 fusion transcripts have been identified in >66% of salivary gland MEC cases. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of MAML2 rearrangement in ODCs featuring mucous prosoplasia.

Methods and results

Ten cases of ODC with a mucous cell component and three cases of IMEC were evaluated using fluorescence in‐situ hybridization. All cases occurred in the mandible. The ODCs exhibited a M:F ratio of 4:1 (mean age 49.2 years), while all IMECs occurred in women (mean age 68.3 years). All three IMECs demonstrated MAML2 rearrangement, in 26–61% of tumour cells. Successful hybridization was observed in nine of 10 cases of ODC. In two of these nine, there was MAML2 rearrangement in 12% and 24% of the lining epithelial cells, while three of the nine showed rearrangement in 7–8% of cells; the remaining four cases were negative.

Conclusions

We identified MAML2 rearrangements in five of nine ODCs lined by mucus‐secreting cells. This suggests that at least a subset of ODCs with mucous prosoplasia are characterized by molecular events considered diagnostic for intraosseous and extraosseous MEC.
The pathology of bowel cancer screening
Authors: Loughrey Maurice B , Shepherd Neil A
Published: August 2014

Colorectal cancer screening is widely promulgated in many parts of the world and population screening is occurring in many countries, especially in western Europe. Although, intuitively, it might be thought that the pathology resulting from screening should be straightforward, being mainly that of polyp diagnosis and the biopsy diagnosis and staging of established adenocarcinoma, in fact experience has shown that there are several areas of considerable difficulty and controversy. In the UK somewhat different programmes, all based on faecal occult blood (FOB) screening, have been developed and each has generated similar pathological conundra. These include the biopsy diagnosis of adenocarcinoma, colorectal serrated pathology, the diagnosis and management of polyp cancers and last, but certainly not least, the phenomenon of the large sigmoid colonic adenomatous polyp with epithelial misplacement/pseudo‐invasion. Polyp cancers provide especially difficult management conundra and discussion of that management within a multidisciplinary team‐based management meeting is regarded as essential in the UK. Large adenomatous polyps of the sigmoid colon with epithelial misplacement are selected into FOB‐based screening programmes and have provided extraordinary diagnostic challenges. Finally, the quality assurance procedures introduced for screening can ensure a considerable overall improvement in the quality of lower gastrointestinal tract pathological reporting.
Assessing the risks and opportunities of presence‐only data for conservation planning
Authors: Hermoso Virgilio , Kennard Mark J. , Linke Simon
Published: August 2014

Aim

Presence‐only data represent a significant source of information for quantifying biodiversity distributions and provide opportunities for use in conservation planning. The large databases of presence‐only records that are available and the lower cost of acquisition could help overcome the traditional problem of lack of data for conservation. However, there are risks associated with the use of presence‐only data inherent with the lack of true absences that might cause omission errors (species are erroneously thought to be absent) and loss of efficiency (more areas are thought to be necessary than needed). These errors could constrain the economic viability of conservation plans and thus the success of conservation practice. We therefore evaluated the opportunities and risks of using presence‐only data for conservation planning.

Location

Northern Australia.

Methods

The effects of using two different types (presence‐only and presence–absence) and different quantities of data were simulated by building predictive models on different subsets of data with increasing numbers of presence–absence or presence‐only records or a combination of both, for 80 freshwater fish species. We then compared the performance of conservation planning outcomes with the best information attainable (a true model built on the complete set of presence–absence data). We measured omission and commission errors in conservation planning outcomes, and the efficiency of and return on the investment in data acquisition.

Results

Including presence‐only data helped reduce commission and omission errors in conservation planning outcomes, but only when used in combination with at least some presence–absence data. The use of just a large quantity of presence‐only data resulted in significant reductions in the efficiency of conservation planning outcomes, as more areas than actually needed were required to achieve conservation targets. This reduction in efficiency was mainly related to inflated omission errors.

Main conclusions

We recommend using presence‐only data cautiously if this is the only source of data available; whenever possible, presence‐only data should be complemented with presence–absence data.
Effect of Part D Coverage Restrictions for Antidepressants, Antipsychotics, and Cholinesterase Inhibitors on Related Nursing Home Resident Outcomes
Authors: Stevenson David G. , O'Malley A. James , Dusetzina Stacie B. , Mitchell Susan L. , Zarowitz Barbara J. , Chernew Michael E. , Newhouse Joseph P. , Huskamp Haiden A.
Published: August 2014

Objectives

In 2006, Medicare Part D transitioned prescription drug coverage for dual‐eligible nursing home residents from Medicaid to Medicare and randomly assigned them to Part D prescription drug plans (PDPs). Because PDPs may differ in coverage, plans may be more or less generous for drugs that an individual is taking. Taking advantage of the fact that randomization mitigates potential selection bias common in observational studies, this study sought to assess the effect of PDP coverage on resident outcomes for three medication classes—antidepressants, antipsychotics, and cholinesterase inhibitors.

Design

Retrospective cohort study to examine the effect of coverage restrictions—including noncoverage and coverage with restrictions—on depression, hallucinations and delusions, aggressive behaviors, cognitive performance, and activities of daily living for dual‐eligible nursing home residents randomized to PDPs in 2006 to 2008. The analyses further adjusted for baseline health status to address any residual imbalances in the comparison groups.

Setting

Linked data from Medicare claims, Minimum Data Set assessments, pharmacy claims, and PDP formulary information.

Participants

Dual‐eligible nursing home residents aged 65 and older living in facilities that contracted with a single pharmacy provider.

Results

PDP coverage restrictions in three medication classes of interest were not significantly associated with the resident outcomes examined. Although cholinesterase inhibitor users facing coverage restrictions had a 0.04‐point lower depression rating score than residents facing no restrictions, this difference was not statistically significant after adjusting for multiple comparisons.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that exogenous changes in coverage for three commonly used medication classes had no detectable effect on nursing home resident outcomes in 2006 to 2008. There are several possible explanations for this lack of association, including the role of policy protections for dual‐eligible nursing home residents and the possibility that suitable clinical alternatives were identified or that previously used medications offered little clinical benefit.
Long‐Term Systemic Inflammation and Cognitive Impairment in a Population‐Based Cohort
Authors: Wichmann Margarete A. , Cruickshanks Karen J. , Carlsson Cynthia M. , Chappell Rick , Fischer Mary E. , Klein Barbara E. K. , Klein Ronald , Tsai Michael Y. , Schubert Carla R.
Published: August 2014

Objectives

Evidence suggests inflammation is associated with cognitive impairment, but previous epidemiological studies have reported conflicting results.

Design

Prospective population‐based cohort.

Setting

Epidemiology of Hearing Loss Study participants.

Participants

Individuals without cognitive impairment in 1998–2000 (N = 2,422; 1,947 with necessary data).

Measurements

Cognitive impairment (Mini‐Mental State Examination score <24 or diagnosis of dementia) was ascertained in 1998–2000, 2003–2005, and 2009–2010. Serum C‐reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) were measured in 1988–1990, 1998–2000, and 2009–2010; tumor necrosis factor‐alpha was measured from 1998–2000.

Results

Participants with high CRP in 1988–1990 and 1998–2000 had lower risk of cognitive impairment than those with low CRP at both time points (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.46, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.26–0.80). Risk did not differ according to 10‐year IL‐6 profile or baseline inflammation category in the whole cohort. In sensitivity analyses restricted to statin nonusers, those with high IL‐6 at both times had greater risk of cognitive impairment than those with low IL‐6 at both times (HR = 3.35, 95% CI = 1.09–10.30). In secondary analyses, each doubling of IL‐6 change over 20 years was associated with greater odds of cognitive impairment in 2009–2010 in the whole cohort (odds ratio (OR) = 1.40, 95% CI = 1.04–1.89), whereas a doubling of CRP change over 20 years was associated with cognitive impairment only in statin nonusers (OR = 1.32, 95% CI = 1.06–1.65).

Conclusion

With data collected over 20 years, this study demonstrated greater likelihood of cognitive impairment in individuals with repeated high or increasing IL‐6. The inconsistent CRP findings may reflect effects of statin medications, survival effects, or adverse effects associated with chronically low CRP. Further studies of long‐term inflammation and cognitive impairment are needed.
Patient Needs, Required Level of Care, and Reasons Delaying Hospital Discharge for Nonacute Patients Occupying Acute Hospital Beds
Authors: Afilalo Marc , Xue Xiaoqing , Soucy Nathalie , Colacone Antoinette , Jourdenais Emmanuelle , Boivin Jean-François
Published: August 2014

This study aims to determine the proportion of nonacute patients occupying acute care beds and to describe their needs, the appropriate level of alternative care, and reasons preventing discharge. Data from 952 patients hospitalized in an acute care unit for 30 days were obtained from their medical charts and by consulting with the medical team at two tertiary teaching hospitals. Among them, 333 (35%) were determined nonacute on day 30 of hospitalization. According to the Appropriateness Evaluation Protocol (AEP), 55% had no medical, nursing, or patient needs. Among nonacute patients with AEP needs, 88% were related to nursing/life‐support services and 12% related to patient condition factors. Regarding alternative level of care, 186 (56%) were waiting for out‐of‐hospital resources, of which 36% were waiting for palliative care, 33% for long‐term care, 18% for rehabilitation, and 12% for home care. For the remaining 147 (44%) nonacute patients, the alternative resources remained undetermined although acute care was no longer required. Main reasons preventing discharge included unavailability of alternative resources, ongoing assessment to determine appropriate resources, ongoing process with community care, and family/patient education/counseling. Available subacute facilities and community‐based care would liberate acute care beds and facilitate their appropriate use.
Impact of the Quadrivalent HPV Vaccine on Disease Recurrence in Men Exposed to HPV Infection: A Randomized Study
Authors: Coskuner Enis Rauf , Ozkan Tayyar Alp , Karakose Ayhan , Dillioglugil Ozdal , Cevik Ibrahim
Published: August 2014

Introduction

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections and is the cause of several different diseases in men and women. Although little is known about HPV infection in men, they are also in the risk group of HPV infection and play an important role in transmitting the virus to women.

Aim

To define the efficacy of the HPV vaccine through cross-immunization and its role in clearance of HPV infection, and to assess infection-associated factors in men.

Methods

This prospective randomized clinical study enrolled 171 evaluable men with genital warts between June 2009 and October 2013. After the initial treatment intervention, 91 patients were randomly assigned to receive HPV vaccine in three doses. Eighty patients were in the control (unvaccinated) group. One hundred-eleven men were single and 60 men were married. Patients who had previous treatment for pre-existing warts and medical disorders that needed chronic treatment or immunosuppression were not included in the randomization. Also 29 men with follow-up less than 12 months and incomplete vaccination were not included.

Main Outcome Measures

The patients were assessed regarding age, condom use, marital status, number of visible genital warts, and smoking status. Post-treatment follow-up was monthly up to 12th month.

Results

Mean age was 34±7.6. One hundred fifteen patients were smokers. For the recurrence of warts, age, smoking, vaccination status were insignificant and marital status was significant in the univariable analysis; only marital status preserved significance (HR: 2.0 CI:1.29–3.12 P =0.002) in the multivariable analysis including vaccination status, marital status, and smoking.

Conclusion

Among the investigated factors vaccination status was not but marital status significantly influenced wart recurrence. Married men had more recurrences in our population. Larger multicenter randomized clinical trials are lacking and seriously required to investigate the therapeutic effect of current quadrivalent HPV vaccine in genital warts.
Tree line dynamics in the tropical African highlands – identifying drivers and dynamics
Authors: Jacob Miro , Annys Sofie , Frankl Amaury , De Ridder Maaike , Beeckman Hans , Guyassa Etefa , Nyssen Jan
Published: August 2014

Questions

What are the potential drivers of tree line change in the tropical African highlands? Are the temperature‐sensitive tree lines in these highlands shifting as a result of climate change?

Significance

The high‐altitude forests provide important ecosystem services for the vulnerable environment of the tropical highlands. Climate change is expected to have pronounced effects on the tree line limit of these forests. Afro‐alpine tropical tree lines are therefore potentially valuable as a proxy of climate change and the related response of ecosystems in the tropical highlands.

Location

Tropical African highlands.

Results

The influence of climatic factors in the African tropical highlands is significantly different compared to other regions. The potentially determining factors for tree line distribution in tropical Africa are temperature, precipitation and cloudiness, carbon balance, fire and anthropo‐zoogenic impacts. Despite recent temperature increase, tree lines have not risen to higher altitudes in the tropical African highlands. Instead, high human pressure has caused stabilization and even recession of the tree lines below their natural climatic limit, particularly through livestock herding. But, even neglecting human pressure, there might be a lag in response time between temperature and tree line change.

Conclusions

The actual drivers of tree line change in the African tropical highlands are mainly fire and anthropogenic pressure rather than climate change. But long‐term drought periods can be a trigger for fire‐induced deforestation of the tree line vegetation. Additionally, in volcanic active mountains, volcanic activity is also a potentially limiting factor for the tree line distribution. Tree line dynamics can thus not be used as a proxy of climate change for the African tropical highlands.
Does Early Algebraic Reasoning Differ as a Function of Students’ Difficulty with Calculations versus Word Problems?
Authors: Powell Sarah R. , Fuchs Lynn S.
Published: August 2014

According to national mathematics standards, algebra instruction should begin at kindergarten and continue through elementary school. Most often, teachers address algebra in the elementary grades with problems related to solving equations or understanding functions. With 789 second‐grade students, we administered: (1) measures of calculations and word problems in the fall and (2) an assessment of prealgebraic reasoning, with items that assessed solving equations and functions, in the spring. Based on the calculation and word‐problem measures, we placed 148 students into one of four difficulty status categories: typically performing, calculation difficulty, word‐problem difficulty, or difficulty with calculations and word problems. Analyses of variance were conducted on the 148 students; path analytic mediation analyses were conducted on the larger sample of 789 students. Across analyses, results corroborated the finding that word‐problem difficulty is more strongly associated with difficulty with prealgebraic reasoning. As an indicator of later algebra difficulty, word‐problem difficulty may be a more useful predictor than calculation difficulty, and students with word‐problem difficulty may require a different level of algebraic reasoning intervention than students with calculation difficulty.
Crystallization kinetics of olivine‐phyric shergottites
Authors: Ennis Megan E. , McSween Harry Y.
Published: August 2014

Crystal size distribution (CSD) and spatial distribution pattern (SDP) analyses are applied to the early crystallizing phases, olivine and pyroxene, in olivine‐phyric shergottites (Elephant moraine [EET] 79001A, Dar al Gani [DaG] 476, and dhofar [Dho] 019) from each sampling locality inferred from Mars ejection ages. Trace element zonation patterns (P and Cr) in olivine are also used to characterize the crystallization history of these Martian basalts. Previously reported 2‐D CSDs for these meteorites are re‐evaluated using a newer stereographically corrected methodology. Kinks in the olivine CSD plots suggest several populations that crystallized under different conditions. CSDs for pyroxene in DaG 476 and EET 79001A reveal single populations that grew under steady‐state conditions; pyroxenes in Dho 019 were too intergrown for CSD analysis. Magma chamber residence times of several days for small grains to several months for olivine megacrysts are calculated using the CSD slopes and growth rates inferred from previous experimental data. Phosphorus imaging in olivines in DaG 476 and Dho 019 indicate rapid growth of skeletal, sector‐zoned, or patchy cores, probably in response to delayed nucleation, followed by slow growth, and finally rapid dendritic growth with back‐filling to form oscillatory zoning in rims. SPD analyses indicate that olivine and pyroxene crystals grew or accumulated in clusters rather than as randomly distributed grains. These data reveal complex solidification histories for Martian basalts, and are generally consistent with the formation at depth of olivine megacryst cores, which were entrained in ascending magmas that crystallized pyroxenes, small olivines, and oscillatory rims on megacrysts.
Chemical compositions and classifica tion of five thermally altered carbonaceous chondrites
Authors: Noronha Bianca A. , Friedrich Jon M.
Published: August 2014

To establish the chemical group provenance of the five thermally altered carbonaceous chondrites Asuka (A‐) 881551, Asuka‐882113, Elephant Moraine (EET) 96026, Mulga (west), and Northwest Africa (NWA) 3133, we quantified 44 trace elements in each of them. We also analyzed Larkman Nunatak (LAR) 04318 (CK4), Miller Range (MIL) 090001 (CR2), Roberts Massif (RBT) 03522 (CK5) as reference samples as their chemical group affinity is already recognized. We conclude that Asuka‐881551, Asuka‐882113, and Mulga (west) are thermally metamorphosed CK chondrites. Compositionally, Elephant Moraine 96026 most resembles the CV chondrites. NWA 3133 is the most significantly thermally altered carbonaceous chondrite in our suite of samples. It is completely recrystallized (no chondrules or matrix remain), but its bulk composition is consistent with a CV–CK clan provenance. The thermally labile element (e.g., Se, Te, Zn, and Bi) depletion in NWA 3133 indicates a chemically open system during the heating episode. It remains unclear if the heat necessary for its thermal alteration of NWA 3133 was due to the decay of 26Al or was impact related. Finally, we infer that MIL 090001, Mulga (west), and NWA 3133 show occasional compositional signatures indicative of terrestrial alteration. The alteration is especially evident within the elements Sr, Ba, La, Ce, Th, U, and possibly Sb. Despite the alteration, we can still confidently place each of the altered chondrites within an established chemical group or clan.
Clinical and economic outcomes of nutrition interventions across the continuum of care
Authors: de van der Schueren Marian , Elia Marinos , Gramlich Leah , Johnson Michael P. , Lim Su Lin , Philipson Tomas , Jaferi Azra , Prado Carla M.
Published: August 2014

Optimal nutrition across the continuum of care plays a key role in the short‐ and long‐term clinical and economic outcomes of patients. Worldwide, an estimated one‐quarter to one‐half of patients admitted to hospitals each year are malnourished. Malnutrition can increase healthcare costs by delaying patient recovery and rehabilitation and increasing the risk of medical complications. Nutrition interventions have the potential to provide cost‐effective preventive care and treatment measures. However, limited data exist on the economics and impact evaluations of these interventions. In this report, nutrition and health system researchers, clinicians, economists, and policymakers discuss emerging global research on nutrition health economics, the role of nutrition interventions across the continuum of care, and how nutrition can affect healthcare costs in the context of hospital malnutrition.
Zygomatic implants: indications, techniques and outcomes, and the Zygomatic Success Code
Authors: Aparicio Carlos , Manresa Carolina , Francisco Karen , Claros Pedro , Alández Javier , González‐Martín Oscar , Albrektsson Tomas
Published: August 2014

The zygoma implant has been an effective option in the management of the atrophic edentulous maxilla as well as for maxillectomy defects. Brånemark introduced the zygoma implant not only as a solution to obtain posterior maxillary anchorage but also to expedite the rehabilitation process. The zygoma implant is a therapeutic option that deserves consideration in the treatment‐planting process. This paper reviews the indications for zygoma implants and the surgical and prosthetic techniques (including new developments) and also reports on the clinical outcome of the zygomatic anatomy‐guided approach. An overview of conventional grafting procedures is also included. Finally, a Zygoma Success Code, describing specific criteria to score the success of rehabilitation anchored on zygomatic implants, is proposed.
Different techniques of static/dynamic guided implant surgery: modalities and indications
Authors: Vercruyssen Marjolein , Fortin Thomas , Widmann Gerlig , Jacobs Reinhilde , Quirynen Marc
Published: August 2014

For computer‐guided surgery a static surgical guide is used that transfers the virtual implant position from computerized tomographic data to the surgical site. These guides are produced by computer‐aided design/computer‐assisted manufacture technology, such as stereolithography, or manually in a dental laboratory (using mechanical positioning devices or drilling machines). With computer‐navigated surgery the position of the instruments in the surgical area is constantly displayed on a screen with a three‐dimensional image of the patient. In this way, the system allows real‐time transfer of the preoperative planning and visual feedback on the screen. A workflow of the different systems is presented in this review.
Comparison of Conventional Freezing and Vitrification with Dimethylformamide and Ethylene Glycol for Cryopreservation of Ovine Embryos
Authors: Varago FC , Moutacas VS , Carvalho BC , Serapião RV , Vieira F , Chiarini‐Garcia H , Brandão FZ , Camargo LS , Henry M , Lagares MA
Published: August 2014

Contents

The aim of this work was to evaluate the efficiency of the cryoprotectants dimethylformamide and ethylene glycol for cryopreservation of ovine embryos using vitrification and conventional freezing. The recovered embryos were distributed randomly in three treatment groups: Gr. 1: conventional freezing (n = 44), Gr. 2: vitrification with ethylene glycol (n = 39) and Gr. 3: vitrification with dimethylformamide (n = 38). Quality of fresh embryos in control group as well as of frozen and vitrified embryos was examined by three methodologies: staining with propidium iodide and Hoechst 33258 and evaluation under fluorescent microscopy, evaluation of re‐expansion and hatching rates after culture, and determination of apoptotic index withTUNELtechnique. It was established that re‐expansion rate in all treatment groups was similar. In the same time, hatching rates were higher in Gr. 1 (40.5%) and Gr. 2 (35.3%) in comparison with Gr. 3 (15.5%, p < 0.05). The number of dead cells in vitrified embryos of Gr. 2 and Gr. 3 was higher (42.6 ± 26.2 and 63.2 ± 34.65, respectively) in comparison with Gr. 1 (conventional freezing, 10.1 ± 8.5, p < 0.05). Embryos vitrified with dimethylformamide included the same quality of apoptotic cells that Gr. 1 (conventional freezing) and fresh embryos. In conclusion, the dimethylformamide and ethylene glycol used as cryoprotectant to vitrify ovine embryos, in the concentrations and exposition time tested in this work, were not as efficient as the conventional freezing for cryopreservation of ovine embryos Thus, the conventional freezing with ethylene glycol was the most efficient method to cryopreserve ovine embryos in comparison with vitrification.
Sexual Precocity of Nellore Bulls that are Offspring of Super Precocious, Precocious and Normal Cows in Extensive Farming Conditions
Authors: Siqueira JB , Oba E , Pinho RO , Guimarães SEF , Neto TM , Guimarães JD
Published: August 2014

Contents

The objective of this work was to verify that mothers classified as super precocious (M1) and precocious (M2) produce more precocious bulls than females classified as normal (M3). This study included 21 186 animals with an average age of 21.29 ± 1.77 months that underwent a breeding soundness evaluation from 1999 to 2008. Of these animals, 2019, 6059 and 13 108 were offspring of M1, M2 and M3 females, respectively. In the breeding soundness examination, the animals were classified as sound for reproduction, sound under a natural mating regime, unsound for reproduction and discarded. To compare the averages obtained for each category of mother within the individual breeding soundness classes, a chi‐square test with a 5% error probability was used, considering the effects of year and month of birth and farm. For the three classes of mothers (M1, M2 and M3), 67.26, 67.22 and 64.16% of bull calves were considered sound for reproduction and 19.71, 19.46 and 21.90% were considered unsound for reproduction, respectively. There was no difference in the frequency of animals that were sound for reproduction under the natural breeding regime between the three classes of mothers (8.87, 9.31 and 9.19%, respectively). There was a difference between the numbers of precocious and normal females that were discarded, with frequencies of 4.01 and 4.75%, respectively (p < 0.05). There were differences in year and month of birth and farm between super precocious and precocious cows in relation to the breeding soundness classification of the animals. It was concluded that the bull offspring of super precocious and precocious cows presented a higher percentage of approval in the breeding soundness examination than the bull offspring of normal cows, demonstrating that the selection for precocity of females has contributed to an increase in the sexual precocity of the herd in relation to the sexual maturity of bulls.