bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biallelic β‐carotene oxygenase 2 knockout results in yellow fat in sheep via CRISPR/Cas9
Authors: Niu Y. , Jin M. , Li Y. , Li P. , Zhou J. , Wang X. , Petersen B. , Huang X. , Kou Q. , Chen Y.
Published: November 2016

The recently emerged CRISPR/Cas9 approach represents an efficient and versatile genome editing tool for producing genetically modified animals. Β‐carotene oxygenase 2 (BCO2) is a key enzyme in the progress of β‐carotene metabolism and is associated with yellow adipose tissue color in sheep. We have recently demonstrated targeted multiplex mutagenesis in sheep and have generated a group of BCO2‐disrupted sheep by zygote injection of the CRISPR/Cas9 components. Here, we show that biallelic modification of BCO2 resulted in yellow fat, compared with the fat color in monoallelic individuals and wild types (snow‐flower white). We subsequently characterized the effects of gene modifications at genetic levels employing sequencing and Western blotting, highlighting the importance of the BCO2 gene for the determination of fat color in sheep. These results indicate that genetic modification via CRISPR/Cas9 holds great potential for validating gene functions as well as for generating desirable phenotypes for economically important traits in livestock.
Combinations and loads of bacteria affect the cytokine production by fetal membranes: An in vitro study
Authors: Noda‐Nicolau Nathalia Mayumi , Polettini Jossimara , Peltier Morgan R. , da Silva Márcia Guimarães , Menon Ramkumar
Published: November 2016

Problem

The polybacterial invasion and inflammation of the amniotic cavity is a common scenario in PTB, and then, we analyzed the cytokine production by human fetal membranes to better understand the host response to polybacterial infections.

Method of study

Fetal membranes were treated by heat‐inactivated genital mycoplasmas and Gardnerella vaginalis at 103 or 106 colony/color‐forming units/mL alone or in combination. Cytokines/receptors were measured in the medium by immunoassays.

Results

Stimulation of genital mycoplasmas did not increase the proinflammatory cytokines, except Ureaplasma urealyticum that increased IL‐8 levels. However, U. urealyticum and Mycoplasma hominis significantly increased IL‐10 and IL‐13 levels. G. vaginalis alone or in combination with genital mycoplasmas showed an increased proinflammatory and anti‐inflammatory cytokines.

Conclusions

G. vaginalis sustain a proinflammatory response in the fetal membranes in vitro, while genital mycoplasmas induce a strong control of the inflammatory response. The ability of genital mycoplasmas to control the proinflammatory response may favor their survival in the upper genital tract.
Elective hepatic resection is feasible and safe in a regional centre
Authors: Gray Andrew D. , Petrou George , Rastogi Pratik , Begbie Stephen
Published: November 2016

Background

Hepatic resectional surgery remains a highly specialized area of general surgery usually reserved for completion at tertiary metropolitan referral centres. Port Macquarie, on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, is the only regionally based hospital offering surgery of this nature in mainland Australia. The purpose of this study is to review the data for patients undergoing hepatic resectional surgery in this non‐metropolitan centre in order to illustrate that these operations can be carried out safely in a regional setting with comparable results to tertiary‐level centres.

Methods

A retrospective review of consecutive patients undergoing elective hepatic resections at Port Macquarie from February 2008 to 31 October 2015 was completed. Pre‐morbid patient clinical and demographic factors, histopathological details, post‐operative complications, survival and mortality data were all noted.

Results

A total of 66 consecutive elective liver resections were performed during the study period. Metastatic colorectal cancer was the most commonly observed pathology (n = 33, 50.0%). The 90‐day mortality was 4.5% (n = 3) whilst 17 patients (n = 17, 25.8%) experienced major complications (Clavien–Dindo grade 3 or 4). The median overall survival following hepatectomy for colorectal metastases was 48 months (95% confidence interval 37–59 months).

Conclusion

Our study shows excellent morbidity, mortality and survival for hepatic resectional surgery performed in a regional centre and is comparable data to major metropolitan centres. Our study confirms that major hepatic resectional surgery in this setting is safe and effective.
Indications and efficacy of endoscopic vacuum‐assisted closure therapy for upper gastrointestinal perforations
Authors: Ooi Geraldine , Burton Paul , Packiyanathan Andrew , Loh Damien , Chen Richard , Shaw Kalai , Brown Wendy , Nottle Peter
Published: November 2016

Background

Endoscopic vacuum‐assisted closure (EndoVAC) therapy is a recent innovation described for use in upper gastrointestinal perforations and leaks, with reported success of 80–90%. It provides sepsis control and collapses the cavity preventing stasis, encouraging healing of the defect. Whilst promising, initial reports of this new technique have not established clear indications, feasibility and optimal technique.

Methods

We analysed all patients who underwent EndoVAC therapy between 2014 and 2016. The technique involved a standard gastroscope, nasogastric tube and vacuum‐assisted closure dressing kit, with endoscopic placement of the polyurethane sponge. Data were collected on indication, technique, sepsis control, outcomes and drainage volumes.

Results

Ten patients were treated. Average age was 56.7 ± 12.3 years. There were three mortalities. EndoVAC placement was feasible in nine patients and successful healing was observed in six patients. Failure was more likely in the cases of large (>8 cm), chronic or complex cavities. A three‐phase response was seen in successful cases, with initial reduction in external drainage (average: 143–17 mL/day within 1 week), followed by a progressive reduction in inflammatory markers (2 weeks) and finally a healing phase with reduction in cavity size (3 weeks).

Conclusion

EndoVAC therapy is a potentially useful adjunct to conventional treatments of a subset of upper gastrointestinal leaks and perforations when there is a contained cavity <8 cm. It appears less effective in an uncontained perforation or chronically established tract. It has clear advantages of being easily applied with readily available equipment and disposables.
Higher alcohol consumption in early pregnancy or low‐to‐moderate drinking during pregnancy may affect children's behaviour and development at one year and six months
Authors: Sundelin‐Wahlsten Viveka , Hallberg Gunilla , Helander Anders
Published: November 2016

Aim

It is unclear whether low‐to‐moderate alcohol consumption during pregnancy affects child development. This study examined the effects that a mother's self‐reported alcohol consumption had on her pregnancy and her child's birth, behaviour and development.

Methods

We asked 291 Swedish women to report their alcohol consumption before and during pregnancy using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT); provide data on their pregnancy, labour and neonatal period; and complete a child behaviour and development questionnaire when their child was one year and six months of age. The mothers were separated into four subgroups based on their AUDIT scores.

Results

There were no group differences in gestational length, but children were shorter at birth if their mother drank during pregnancy. Mothers with the highest alcohol consumption before pregnancy were generally younger and more likely to smoke, have unplanned pregnancies and have children who displayed behavioural problems than controls who reported abstinence before and during pregnancy. Mothers who drank more during pregnancy than before were more likely to have had abortions and unplanned pregnancies and less likely to breastfeed for more than six months.

Conclusion

Our results suggested that low‐to‐moderate alcohol consumption during pregnancy may negatively influence a child's development and behaviour in several ways.
CD147 modulates the differentiation of T‐helper 17 cells in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Yang Hui , Wang Jian , Li Yu , Yin Zhen‐Jie , Lv Ting‐Ting , Zhu Ping , Zhang Yan
Published: November 2016

The role of CD147 in regulation of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is not fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of cell‐to‐cell contact of activated CD14+ monocytes with CD4+ T cells, and the modulatory role of CD147 on T‐helper 17 (Th17) cells differentiation in patients with RA. Twenty confirmed active RA patients and twenty normal controls were enrolled. CD4+ T cells and CD14+ monocytes were purified by magnetic beads cell sorting. Cells were cultured under different conditions in CD4+ T cells alone, direct cell‐to‐cell contact co‐culture of CD4+ and CD14+ cells, or indirect transwell co‐culture of CD4+/CD14+ cells in response to LPS and anti‐CD3 stimulation with or without anti‐CD147 antibody pretreatments. The proportion of IL‐17‐producing CD4+ T cells (defined as Th17 cells) was determined by flow cytometry. The levels of interleukin (IL)‐17, IL‐6, and IL‐1β in the supernatants of cultured cells were measured by ELISA. The optimal condition for in vitro induction of Th17 cells differentiation was co‐stimulation with 0.1 μg/mL of LPS and 100 ng/mL of anti‐CD3 for 3 days under direct cell‐to‐cell contact co‐culture of CD4+ and CD14+ cells. Anti‐CD147 antibody reduced the proportion of Th17 cells, and also inhibited the productions of IL‐17, IL‐6, and IL‐1β in PBMC culture from RA patients. The current results revealed that Th17 differentiation required cell‐to‐cell contact with activated monocytes. CD147 promoted the differentiation of Th17 cells by regulation of cytokine production, which provided the evidence for pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets for RA.
Primary giant cell tumor of the female breast: a diagnostic red herring with therapeutic implications
Authors: Gaspar Balan Louis , Sharma Saniya , Singh Rajinder , Vasishta Rakesh Kumar
Published: November 2016

Primary giant cell tumor of the female breast is extremely rare. Major diagnostic difficulty is encountered not only by the surgeon but also by the radiologist and pathologist. Pathologically, it is similar to the bone and soft tissue counterparts. However, this is not always true. We describe a patient presenting clinically as cystosarcoma phyllodes and histopathological examination revealed a primary giant cell tumor which was confirmed by immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy. Interestingly, an intimate relationship between the mononuclear component of the tumor cells with eosinophils and mast cells was observed electron microscopically.
Improvement in liver histology due to lifestyle modification is independently associated with improved kidney function in patients with non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Vilar‐Gomez E. , Calzadilla‐Bertot L. , Friedman S. L. , Gra‐Oramas B. , Gonzalez‐Fabian L. , Villa‐Jimenez O. , Lazo‐del Vallin S. , Diago M. , Adams L. A. , Romero‐Gomez M. , Chalasani N.
Published: November 2016

Background

Several recent studies have shown a strong association between non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and chronic kidney disease.

Aim

To examine the relationship between changes in liver histology and renal function in patients with NASH.

Methods

The present analysis represents a post hoc analysis of a recently published trial that included 261 patients with NASH who were treated with lifestyle modifications during 52 weeks. Kidney function was evaluated through Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFR, mL/min/1.73 m2) overtime. We explored correlations between the kidney function and improvement in histological outcomes at 52 weeks.

Results

Interestingly, a one‐stage reduction in fibrosis (r = 0.20, P < 0.01) and resolution of NASH (r = 0.17, P < 0.01) were significantly correlated with an improvement in the kidney function. The eGFR values significantly increased in patients with fibrosis improvement (+7.6 ± 6.5 mL/min/1.73 m2), compared to those without fibrosis improvement (−1.98 ± 6.4 mL/min/1.73 m2) (P < 0.01) at end of treatment (EOT). Likewise, NASH resolution was associated with an increase in eGFR compared with patients without NASH resolution (2.32 ± 7.8 mL/min/1.73 m2 vs. −1.04 ± 5.9 mL/min/1.73 m2, P = 0.04) at EOT. After controlling for the confounders, the association between fibrosis improvement, NASH resolution and eGFR change remained significant (P < 0.05 for both).

Conclusions

Improvement in liver histology due to lifestyle modification is independently associated with improved kidney function in NASH. As new drugs for NASH emerge, studies should address whether improvement in histology in response to pharmacotherapies yield the same improvement in kidney function as weight loss.
Internal hernia through a transverse mesocolon defect after laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy: Report of a case
Authors: Nanno Yoshihide , Goto Tadahiro , Toyama Hirochika , Asari Sadaki , Terai Sachio , Shirakawa Sachiyo , Mizumoto Takuya , Ueda Yuki , Kido Masahiro , Ajiki Tetsuo , Fukumoto Takumi , Ku Yonson
Published: November 2016

We report a case of an internal hernia through a transverse mesocolon defect after laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy. The patient was a 58‐year‐old man with an intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm of the pancreatic body who underwent laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy. During surgery, an approximately 5‐cm defect in the transverse mesocolon was inadvertently made. The defect was not closed as it was thought to be large enough to preclude incarceration. However, the patient developed a bowel obstruction 2 months postoperatively. Laparotomy revealed that a loop of the proximal jejunum herniated through the defect and was adherent to the stapled pancreatic stump. An additional loop of the jejunum was herniated through the narrowed mesenteric defect. To our knowledge, this is the first case of an internal hernia through a transverse mesocolon defect after laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy.
The paradox of long‐term ungulate impact: increase of plant species richness in a temperate forest
Authors: Vild Ondřej , Hédl Radim , Kopecký Martin , Szabó Péter , Suchánková Silvie , Zouhar Václav
Published: November 2016

Questions

Did high densities of wild ungulates cause a decline in plant species richness in a temperate oak wood? How did species composition change after nearly five decades? Did ungulates facilitate the spread of ruderal species and supress endangered species? Did dispersal strategies play a role in these processes?

Location

Krumlov Wood, SE Czech Republic.

Methods

In 2012, we resampled 58 quasi‐permanent vegetation plots first surveyed in the 1960s. Between the surveys, 36 plots were enclosed in a game preserve with artificially high density of ungulates (mostly deer, mouflon and wild boar; ca. 55 animals·km−2). We analysed the differences in temporal changes between plots inside and outside the game preserve, focusing on species diversity and composition. We assessed species characteristics relevant to grazing to understand compositional changes.

Results

Ungulates significantly increased α‐ and γ‐diversity and caused significant vegetation homogenization inside the game preserve. Vegetation homogenization and the increase in species richness resulted from massive enrichment with ruderal species. However, richness of endangered species decreased. Species dispersed by animals internally (endozoochory) increased, while species dispersed externally (epizoochory) or by wind (anemochory) decreased.

Conclusions

Contrary to our expectations, our long‐term data showed that artificially high ungulate densities substantially increased plant species richness. Apparently, the establishment of ruderal herbs was supported by frequent disturbances and ungulate‐mediated dispersal. At the same time, species richness of non‐ruderal plants did not change, probably because ungulates hindered the regeneration of woody species and maintained an open forest canopy. In conclusion, high ungulate density led to the spread of ruderal species, which in turn strongly contributed to the observed shift towards nutrient‐richer conditions and taxonomically more homogenous communities.
Linkage disequilibrium amongst ITGA2B and ITGB3 gene variants in patients with Glanzmann thrombasthenia confirms that most disease‐causing mutations are recent
Authors: Pillois Xavier , Nurden Alan T.
Published: November 2016

We recently reported mutation analysis of the largest cohort of Glanzmann thrombasthenia (GT) patients so far examined. Sanger sequencing of coding regions, splice sites, upstream and downstream regions of the ITGA2B and ITGB3 genes identified 78 causal genetic variants (55 novel); 4 large deletions or duplications were also detected. We have now analysed the expression of non‐causal gene polymorphisms in the sequenced regions of both genes in selected members of this cohort. We identified 10 mostly silent variants in ITGA2B and 37 in ITGB3; all were present in control donor databases. Three non‐synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms present were human platelet alloantigen (HPA) variants. A series of haplogroups, often including HPA‐3b in ITGA2B, repeated with little variation across unrelated families of wide geographical origins and with different GT‐causing mutations whether in ITGA2B or ITGB3. In contrast, a deleterious heterozygous c.1440‐13_c.1440‐1del in intron 14 of ITGA2B shared a common ITGA2B haplogroup composed of at least five gene polymorphisms and re‐occurred in seven European families with no known family relationships. Our results highlight the value of gene polymorphism analysis in GT and are consistent with the bulk of disease‐causing mutations in GT being of recent origin.
Low‐dose desmopressin combined with serum sodium monitoring can prevent clinically significant hyponatraemia in patients treated for nocturia
Authors: Juul Kristian Vinter , Malmberg Anders , van der Meulen Egbert , Walle Johan Vande , Nørgaard Jens Peter
Published: November 2016

Objective

To explore risk factors for desmopressin‐induced hyponatraemia and evaluate the impact of a serum sodium monitoring plan.

Subjects and Methods

This was a meta‐analysis of data from three clinical trials of desmopressin in nocturia. Patients received placebo or desmopressin orally disintegrating tablet (ODT; 10–100 μg). The incidence of serum sodium <130 mmol/L was recorded by age, sex and dose. Potential predictors of clinically significant hyponatraemia were identified using multivariate analysis in a Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

Dose, age, baseline serum sodium level and kidney function, according to estimated GFR clearance, were significant risk factors for hyponatraemia in both sexes; similar to the known risk factors associated with hyponatraemia in the general population. In men, arthritis and use of drugs for bone disease were also predictive of hyponatraemia, while in women, raised monocytes and absence of lipid‐modifying drugs increased the risk of hyponatraemia. Use of the proposed monitoring scheme and the minimum effective dose would have omitted all patients with clinically significant hyponatraemia from further treatment.

Conclusions

The incidence of hyponatraemia can be reduced by using minimum effective gender‐specific dosing with the ODT formulation of desmopressin (25 μg in women, 50 μg in men). A sodium monitoring plan is proposed whereby baseline sodium must be ≥135 mmol/L (especially important in the elderly), with additional monitoring at week 1 and month 1 for those at elevated risk because they are aged ≥65 years or receiving concomitant medication associated with hyponatraemia. This monitoring plan would help to prevent some at‐risk patients developing hyponatraemia; retrospective application of the monitoring plan showed that, once at‐risk patients were appropriately screened out, only mild, non‐clinically significant hyponatraemia was observed, within ranges of other drugs associated with hyponatraemia and similar to the background prevalence in the treatment population.
Mirror neurons in the tree of life: mosaic evolution, plasticity and exaptation of sensorimotor matching responses
Authors: Tramacere Antonella , Pievani Telmo , Ferrari Pier F.
Published: November 2016

ABSTRACT

Considering the properties of mirror neurons (MNs) in terms of development and phylogeny, we offer a novel, unifying, and testable account of their evolution according to the available data and try to unify apparently discordant research, including the plasticity ofMNsduring development, their adaptive value and their phylogenetic relationships and continuity. We hypothesize that theMNsystem reflects a set of interrelated traits, each with an independent natural history due to unique selective pressures, and propose that there are at least three evolutionarily significant trends that gave raise to three subtypes: hand visuomotor, mouth visuomotor, and audio–vocal. Specifically, we put forward a mosaic evolution hypothesis, which posits that different types ofMNsmay have evolved at different rates within and among species. This evolutionary hypothesis represents an alternative to both adaptationist and associative models. Finally, the review offers a strong heuristic potential in predicting the circumstances under which specific variations and properties ofMNsare expected. Such predictive value is critical to test new hypotheses aboutMNactivity and its plastic changes, depending on the species, the neuroanatomical substrates, and the ecological niche.
Contracting montane cloud forests: a case study of the Andean alder (Alnus acuminata) and associated fungi in the Yungas
Authors: Wicaksono Christian Y. , Aguirre‐Guiterrez Jesús , Nouhra Eduardo , Pastor Nicolás , Raes Niels , Pacheco Silvia , Geml József
Published: November 2016

Alnus acuminata is a keystone tree species in the Yungas forests and host to a wide range of fungal symbionts. While species distribution models (SDMs) are routinely used for plants and animals to study the effects of climate change on montane forest communities, employing SDMs in fungi has been hindered by the lack of data on their geographic distribution. The well‐known host specificity and common biogeographic history of A. acuminata and associated ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi provide an exceptional opportunity to model the potential habitat for this symbiotic assemblage and to predict possible climate‐driven changes in the future. We (1) modeled the present and future distributions of suitable habitats for A. acuminata; (2) characterized fungal communities in different altitudinal zones of the Yungas using DNA metabarcoding of soil and root samples; and (3) selected fungi that were significant indicators of Alnus. Fungal communities were strongly structured according to altitudinal forest types and the presence of Alnus. Fungal indicators of Alnus, particularly ECM and root endophytic fungi, were also detected in Alnus roots. Current and future (year 2050) habitat models developed for A. acuminata predict a 25–50 percent decrease in suitable area and an upslope shift of the suitable habitat by ca. 184–380 m, depending on the climate change scenario. Although A. acuminata is considered to be an effective disperser, recent studies suggest that Andean grasslands are remarkably resistant to forest invasion, and future range contraction for A. acuminata may be even more pronounced than predicted by our models.
Long‐Term Effect of Surface Roughness and Patients' Factors on Crestal Bone Loss at Dental Implants. A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Doornewaard Ron , Christiaens Véronique , De Bruyn Hugo , Jacobsson Magnus , Cosyn Jan , Vervaeke Stijn , Jacquet Wolfgang
Published: November 2016

Publications from 2011 to 2015 were selected to evaluate effect of implant surface roughness on long‐term bone loss as surrogate for peri‐implantitis risk. 87 out of 2,566 papers reported the mean bone loss after at least 5 years of function. Estimation of the proportion of implants with bone loss above 1, 2, and 3 mm as well as analysis the effect of implant surface roughness, smoking, and history of periodontitis was performed. By means of the provided statistical information of bone loss (mean and standard deviation) the prevalence of implants with bone loss ranging from 1 to 3 mm was estimated. The bone loss was used as a surrogate parameter for “peri‐implantitis” given the fact that “peri‐implantitis” prevalence was not reported in most studies or when reported, the diagnostic criteria were unclear or of dubious quality. The outcome of this review suggests that peri‐implant bone loss around minimally rough implant systems was statistically significant less in comparison to the moderately rough and rough implant systems. No statistically significant difference was observed between moderately rough and rough implant systems. The studies that compared implants with comparable design and different surface roughness, showed less average peri‐implant bone loss around the less rough surfaces in the meta‐analysis. However, due to the heterogeneity of the papers and the multifactorial cause for bone loss, the impact of surface roughness alone seems rather limited and of minimal clinical importance. Irrespective of surface topography or implant brand, the average weighted implant survival rate was 97.3% after 5 years or more of loading. If considering 3 mm bone loss after at least 5 years to represent the presence of “peri‐implantitis,” less than 5% of the implants were affected. The meta‐analysis indicated that periodontal history and smoking habits yielded more bone loss.
Influence of Healing Period Upon Bone Turn Over on Maxillary Sinus Floor Augmentation Grafted Solely with Deproteinized Bovine Bone Mineral: A Prospective Human Histological and Clinical Trial
Authors: Wang Feng , Zhou Wenjie , Monje Alberto , Huang Wei , Wang Yueping , Wu Yiqun
Published: November 2016

Purpose

To investigate the influence of maturation timing upon histological, histomorphometric and clinical outcomes when deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM) was used as a sole biomaterial for staged maxillary sinus floor augmentation (MSFA).

Materials and methods

Patients with a posterior edentulous maxillary situation and a vertical bone height ≤ 4 mm were included in this study. A staged MSFA was carried out. After MSFA with DBBM as a sole grafting material, biopsy cores were harvested with simultaneous implant placement followed by a healing period of 5, 8, and 11 months, respectively. Micro‐CT, histologic and histomorphometric analyses were performed.

Results

Forty‐one patients were enrolled and 38 bone core biopsies were harvested. Significantly greater BV/TV was observed between 5‐ and 8‐month healing from micro‐CT analysis. Histomorphometric analyses showed the ratio of mineralized newly formed bone increased slightly from 5 to 11 months; however, no statistically significant difference was reached (p = .409). Residual bone substitute decreased from 37.3 ± 5.04% to 20.6 ± 7.45%, achieving a statistical significant difference from of 5 up to 11 months (p < .01). Moreover, no implant failure, biological or technical complication occurred after 12‐month follow‐up of functional loading.

Conclusion

DBBM utilized as sole grafting material in staged MSFA demonstrated to be clinically effective regardless of the healing period. Histomorphometrical and micro‐CT assessments revealed that at later stages of healing (8 and 11 months) there is a higher proportion of newly‐bone formation compared to earlier stages (5 months). Moreover, the longer the maturation period, the substantially lesser remaining biomaterial could be expected. Even though, these facts did not seem to negatively impact on the implant prognosis 1‐year after loading.
A Genuine Win‐Win: Resolving the “Conserve or Catch” Conflict in Marine Reserve Network Design
Authors: Chollett Iliana , Garavelli Lysel , O'Farrell Shay , Cherubin Laurent , Matthews Thomas R. , Mumby Peter J. , Box Stephen J.
Published: November 2016

To support fishing communities, reserves should ensure the persistence of meta‐populations while boosting fisheries yield. However, so far their design from the onset has rarely considered both objectives simultaneously. Here we overcome this barrier in designing a network of reserves for the Caribbean spiny lobster, a species with long larval duration for which local management is considered pointless because the benefits of protection are believed to be accrued elsewhere. Our reserve design approach uses spatially explicit population models and considers ontogenetic migration, larval and adult movement. We show that yield and persistence are negatively related, but that both objectives can be maximized simultaneously during planning. Importantly, we also show that local efforts to manage spiny lobster, the most economically valuable marine resource in the Caribbean, can result in locally accrued benefits, overcoming a major barrier to investing effort in the appropriate management of this species.
A novel strategy to improve the dyeing properties in laccase‐mediated coloration of wool fabric
Authors: Zhang Ting , Bai Rubing , Wang Qiang , Fan Xuerong , Wang Ping , Yuan Jiugang , Yu Yuanyuan
Published: November 2016

Enzymatic coloration of fabrics has received worldwide attention in recent years. In order to improve the dyeing properties of enzymatically coloured fabrics, a novel strategy using 1‐ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC), a biological coupling agent, to pretreat wool fabric was employed in this paper. Enzymatic coloration of wool fabrics with syringic acid was carried out in the presence of laccase from Trametes versicolor. The effect of different periods on laccase‐catalysed polymerisation of syringic acid was examined by UV‐vis spectroscopy. Enzymatic coloration results of dyed wool fabrics were evaluated by means of K/S value and colour difference (∆E*). Process parameters, including the dosages of syringic acid and incubation time, that influenced the colour depth were studied. Meanwhile, the colour fastness and levelness of dyed wool fabrics were tested. The results showed that the UV‐vis absorbance of reaction solution increased as oxidation time elapsed, and a new peak appeared at 360 nm. After pretreatment, the K/S values and colour difference values of wool fabrics dyed with poly(syringic acid) improved appreciably compared with the control samples without any pretreatment. Moreover, pretreated wool fabrics showed better dyeing fastness and levelness than control samples.
Uncovering the Truth about Chinese Urban Unemployment Rates: 2005–2012
Authors: Zhang Jun , Xu Liheng , Zhang Huihui
Published: November 2016

Using China Urban Household Survey data from 2005 to 2012, the present paper examines the changing pattern of China's urban unemployment rates. The paper shows that the annual urban unemployment rates during 2005–2012 averaged approximately 8.5 percent, as opposed to the official figure of approximately 4.1 percent, and despite the significant slowdown of GDP growth since 2008, the urban unemployment rates still exhibit a downward trend. This paper finds that continuous job creation in both the tertiary and the non‐state sectors helps explain the decreasing trend in unemployment rates. Meanwhile, the downward trend of the unemployment rates could also be explained by the fact that both the secondary industry and the state‐owned sector have destructed fewer jobs because of the execution of macroeconomic stimulus policies since 2008.
Real Effective Exchange Rate and Regional Economic Growth in China: Evidence from Provincial Data
Authors: Yan Guo , Li Sheng , Lin Yaqi , Li Jie
Published: November 2016

Using data for the period 2000–2011, we construct province‐level real effective exchange rate (REER) indices for China and test the effect of REER depreciation on regional economic growth in a generalized method of moments regression framework. Our results show that REER depreciation, in general, promotes regional economic growth, through increasing net exports and lowering FDI costs. After dividing the full sample into coastal and inland subsamples, we find that REER depreciation influences economic growth in inland areas but not in coastal areas. This is due to the fact that the inland areas have more surplus labor or other resources to expand their production capacity when REER depreciation leads to increased world demand. Furthermore, compared to inland areas, processing‐and‐assembly trade comprises a larger share of trade in the coastal areas, where traders import more raw materials and intermediate goods to process and assemble goods. When the exchange rate depreciates, the costs of imported materials and immediate goods increase. In this case, the benefits from REER depreciation in coastal areas are offset to some extent and are thus lower than in inland areas.
Are core data sets the answer for outcome measures?
Authors: Oeffinger Donna
Published: November 2016

This commentary is on the original article by Mäenpää et al. on pages 322–328 of this issue.
Perceptions of risks for diabetes‐related complications in Type 2 diabetes populations: a systematic review
Authors: Rouyard T. , Kent S. , Baskerville R. , Leal J. , Gray A.
Published: November 2016

Aim

In Type 2 diabetes, there is no clear understanding of how people perceive their risk of experiencing diabetes‐related complications. To address this issue, we undertook an evidence‐based synthesis of how people with Type 2 diabetes perceive their risk of complications.

Methods

We performed a systematic search of nine electronic databases for peer‐reviewed articles published on or before 1 March 2016. Data from 18 studies reporting lay perceptions of risks for complications in Type 2 diabetes populations were included. Publication year ranged between 2002 and 2014.

Results

Methods used to assess risk perceptions were heterogeneous, ranging from questionnaires measuring the accuracy of perceived risks to semi‐structured and focus group interviews. We found evidence of low risk awareness in most dimensions of risk perceptions measured and the existence of optimistic bias.

Conclusions

Perceptions were generally biased and varied according to the dimension of risk measured, the subpopulation concerned and the type of complications considered. Future work is needed to identify the best practical ways of correcting for biased risk perceptions so as to encourage self‐care behaviours and treatment adherence.
Time to question diabetes self‐management support for Arabic‐speaking migrants: exploring a new model of care
Authors: Alzubaidi H. , Mc Namara K. , Browning C.
Published: November 2016

Aim

The objective of this study was to explore a new model for diabetes self‐management support in Arabic‐speaking migrants.

Methods

Two qualitative methods were used: face‐to‐face semi‐structured individual interviews and focus groups. Interviews were audio‐taped, transcribed verbatim and coded thematically. Arabic‐speaking migrants with Type 2 diabetes were recruited from several primary, secondary and tertiary healthcare settings in metropolitan Melbourne, Australia. These settings were purposefully selected to obtain a diverse group of participants. Data collection continued until saturation was reached. This is the first study that involved members of Arabic‐speaking communities in Australia in a formal process of consumer and public involvement to inform research design and recruitment in order to provide evidence for a new model of diabetes self‐management for Arabic‐speaking migrants.

Results

No self‐management support was offered to Arabic‐speaking migrants beyond the initial diagnosis period. Significant knowledge gaps and skills deficits in all self‐management domains were evident. The provision of tailored self‐management support was considered crucial. When asked about preferred structure and delivery modalities, a strong preference was reported for face‐to‐face storytelling interactions over telephone‐ or internet‐based interventions. Gender‐specific group education and self‐management support sessions delivered by Arabic‐speaking diabetes health professionals, lay peers or social workers trained in diabetes self‐management were highly regarded.

Conclusions

A patient and public involvement approach allows genuine engagement with Arabic‐speaking migrants with diabetes. There is urgent need for a new model for self‐management support among Arabic‐speaking migrants. Findings yielded new recommendations for diabetes health professionals working with these migrant communities to support behaviour change.
Schumpeterian and semi‐endogenous productivity growth explanations
Authors: Fedderke Johannes W. , Liu Yang
Published: November 2016

This paper examines the nature and sources of productivity growth in South African manufacturing sectors, from an international comparative perspective. On panel data estimations, we find that the evidence tends to support Schumpeterian explanations of productivity growth for a panel of countries including both developed and developing countries, and a panel of South African manufacturing sectors. By contrast, semi‐endogenous productivity growth is supported for a panel of OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development) manufacturing sectors. However, we also report evidence that suggests that sectors are not homogeneous. For this reason, time series evidence may be more reliable than panel data. Time series evidence for South Africa suggests that prospects for the sustained productivity growth associated with Schumpeterian innovation processes, is restricted to a narrow set of sectors. For the OECD manufacturing sectors, both semi‐endogenous and Schumpeterian growth finds support. Schumpeterian growth is present for a larger number of sectors than for South Africa, and is most prevalent in the North American economies.
Mercantilism and bureaucratic modernization in early eighteenth‐century France
Authors: Beuve Jean , Brousseau Eric , Sgard Jérôme
Published: November 2016

French mercantilism is generally associated with absolutist policy‐making subject to capture by rent‐seeking interests. This article investigates how theBureau du Commerce, a small state agency in charge of commerce and the supply side, handed out rents and privileges to private entrepreneurs. We coded how theBureauinvestigated and decided all 267 voluntary submissions received between 1724 and 1744. It is shown that theBureau’s formal, rule‐based decision‐making process could actually differentiate between alternate policy aims and target them consistently over time, with more or less powerful sets of rents. From this, a hierarchy of revealed policy preferences is derived. First comes technical innovation and diffusion, then local economic development; import substitution is only in the third position, followed by consumers’ welfare. Lastly, and in contrast to a long line of authors, it is shown that the production of luxury goods was not a significant or valued objective.
Triglyceride to high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio predicts worse outcomes after acute ischaemic stroke
Authors: Deng Q.‐W. , Wang H. , Sun C.‐Z. , Xing F.‐L. , Zhang H.‐Q. , Zuo L. , Gu Z.‐T. , Yan F.‐L.
Published: November 2016

Background and purpose

The effect of the triglyceride (TG) to high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) ratio (TG/HDL‐C) on clinical outcomes of acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) patients is unclear. This study sought to determine whether the TG/HDL‐C ratio in AIS patients is associated with worse outcomes at 3 months.

Methods

Acute ischaemic stroke patients who were admitted from 2011 to 2014 were enrolled in this study. TG, total cholesterol (TC), HDL‐C and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) were collected on admission. Three end‐points were defined according to the modified Rankin scale (mRS) score at 3 months after symptom onset (excellent outcome, mRS 0–1; good outcome, mRS 0–2; and death, mRS 6).

Results

In all, 1006 patients were included (median age 68.5 years; 58.2% male). Higher TG, non‐HDL‐C and TG/HDL‐C were strongly associated with the three end‐points after adjustments: excellent [odds ratio (OR) = 1.39, OR 1.89 and OR 2.34, respectively] and good (OR 1.48, OR 2.90 and OR 4.12) outcomes, and death (OR 0.59, OR 0.29 and OR 0.26). According to receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, the best discriminating factor was a TG/HDL‐C ≥ 0.87 for excellent outcomes [area under the ROC curve (AUC) 0.596; sensitivity 73.3%; specificity 42.7%] and non‐death (AUC 0.674; sensitivity 67.8%; specificity 60.6%) as well as a TG/HDL‐C ≥ 1.01 for a good outcome (AUC 0.652; sensitivity 61.6%; specificity 63.2%). Patients with a TG/HDL‐C < 0.87 had a 2.94‐fold increased risk of death (95% confidence interval 1.89–4.55) compared with patients with a TG/HDL‐C ≥ 0.87.

Conclusions

A lower TG/HDL‐C was independently associated with death and worse outcome at 3 months in AIS.
Impact of light and alarm pheromone on immediate early gene expression in the European honeybee, Apis mellifera
Authors: Sommerlandt Frank M. J. , Rössler Wolfgang , Spaethe Johannes
Published: November 2016

Immediate early genes (IEGs) are a group of rapidly and transiently expressed genes that are induced by cellular stimulation, such as neuronal activation, and do not rely on de novo protein synthesis. Based on these characteristics, IEGs are used as markers for localizing neuronal activation in vertebrate brains. However, whether their orthologs in insects are functioning in a similar way is still an open question. We report findings on the expression profiles of two IEGs in honeybee workers, encoding the honeybee orthologs of the vertebrate transcription factors Egr and c‐Jun, after exposure to light and alarm pheromone. While Amjra, the c‐jun ortholog, becomes upregulated in various brain parts following stimulation with either stimulus, the expression of the X1 isoform of Amegr, the egr ortholog, is not affected. These findings suggest different roles and molecular pathways for both IEGs within the neuronal network of the honeybee and provide first data on an isoform‐specific analysis of Amegr expression.
Temporal segregations in the surface community of an ephemeral habitat: Time separates the potential competitors of coprophilous Diptera
Authors: Frantisek Xaver Jiri Sladecek , Hana Sulakova , Martin Konvicka
Published: November 2016

Temporal separations among species greatly enhance the species' coexistence, especially in insect communities inhabiting temporally unstable, yet resource‐rich, ephemeral habitats like dung or carrion. The insect communities inhabiting ephemeral habitats consist of two components, the internal community dwelling within the substrate (mostly Coleoptera), and the surface community inhabiting the habitat's outer rim (mostly adult Diptera). In contrast to the internal community, the surface community is very rarely studied. We present here the first quantitative study of temporal trends in the surface community of coprophilous dipteran adults. Using artificially created 1.5 L cow dung pats, we studied the succession and seasonality in the surface community during six sampling periods in 2011 and 2012. In total, we sampled 13579 adults of dung‐visiting Diptera. Both the abundance and species richness decreased rapidly throughout the succession, and were highest during summer. Along the successional gradient, the community was separated into two main groups (early and late) and four subgroups: (i) species occurring during the first few hours (mainly Calyptratae: Diptera); (ii) species occurring between the first and second days; (iii) species occurring between the second and third days (mainly Acalyptratae: Diptera); and (iv) species with optima after the third day of dung pat existence (mainly Nematocera). The earliest and latest successional groups, occurring mainly during spring–autumn, were seasonally separated from the two mid‐successional groups, occurring during summer. The ecologically similar species displayed detectable seasonal micro‐optima, which likely facilitate their coexistence. There was a high overall similarity in temporal patterns between dung and carrion surface communities.
Firm Structure and Environment as Contingencies to the Corporate Venture Capital-Parent Firm Value Relationship
Authors: Titus Varkey K. , Anderson Brian S.
Published: November 2016

Corporate venture capital (CVC) is a valuable strategic tool associated with numerous innovative outcomes. However, less is known about whether CVC investing creates value for the investing (or parent) firm. Drawing from the attention–based view and contingency theory, we suggest that an increase in firm value from CVC investing is contingent on attentional mechanisms that discipline the selection of new investment opportunities. We posit that increases in firm value associated with CVC investing accrues to firms adopting specific operational structures and operating in particular environmental contexts. We find support for our research model in a sample of 95 companies between 2000 and 2008.
Testosterone Reduces Promiscuity of Female Blue Tits (Cyanistes caeruleus): An Experimental Study
Authors: de Jong Berber , Lens Luc , van der Velde Marco , Korsten Peter , Groothuis Ton , Komdeur Jan
Published: November 2016

In many animal species, extra‐pair copulations (EPCs) are common and can increase fitness in both sexes. In males, EPCs can increase total reproductive output, whereas in females benefits of EPCs can be indirect through improving the genetic quality of their offspring. Males and females of many vertebrates show an increase in levels of the hormone testosterone (T) during the mating period. In males, T plays an important role in regulating mating behaviour including increasing their EPC rate. While much is known about the role of T in male mating behaviour, the role of T in female reproduction remains unclear. To study the influence of T on extra‐pair paternity rates in females in a field setting, we created three experimental groups of female blue tits (Cyanistes caeruleus): treated with either T, flutamide (Flu; an androgen receptor blocker) or empty implants before egg laying. Subsequently, we scored the number of extra‐pair offspring (EPO) in their broods. We also assessed the attractiveness of females treated with either T or Flu to males in mate choice trials in the laboratory. The overall proportion of EPO was lower for the T‐implanted group compared with the control group, whereas Flu had no effect. Given that males did not show a preference for Flu‐ vs. T‐treated females in the mate choice trials, it appears less likely that the reduction in EPO in the T‐implanted females was due to a reduction in their attractiveness. T levels may have negatively influenced EPO rate by affecting female within‐pair and/or extra‐pair mating behaviour. Future behavioural studies should investigate how elevated T levels reduce the number of EPO.