bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effective treatment for sensitive skin: 4‐t‐butylcyclohexanol and licochalcone A
Authors: Sulzberger M. , Worthmann A.‐C. , Holtzmann U. , Buck B. , Jung K.A. , Schoelermann A.M. , Rippke F. , Stäb F. , Wenck H. , Neufang G. , Grönniger E.
Published: January 2016

Background

More than 50% of adults report to suffer from sensitive skin. This common condition is characterized by subjective sensations such as prickling, burning, skin tightness or pruritus, and is often accompanied by objective symptoms like inflammation and erythema.

Objective

The objective of this study was to develop an active ingredient concept for the treatment of sensitive skin. We tested compounds regarding their potential to (i) decrease the release of proinflammatory mediators, which among others induce erythema and (ii) counteract the hyperresponsiveness of nerve fibres and, thus, exert effects on cutaneous neurosensory dysfunction.

Methods

4‐t‐butylcyclohexanol, licochalcone A and acetyl dipeptide‐1 cetyl ester were analysed in vitro regarding their potential to (i) decrease the release of PGE2 and activation of NFκB and to (ii) inhibit TRPV1 activation or the release of neuronal CGRP. To assess subjective and objective symptoms of skin sensitivity in vivo, two controlled, single‐blind, randomized studies were conducted with 4‐t‐butylcyclohexanol and the combination with licochalcone A.

Results

In vitro, 4‐t‐butylcyclohexanol significantly reduced TRPV1 activation, while acetyl dipeptide‐1 cetyl ester had no effect on receptor activation. Licochalcone A significantly decreased NFκB signalling and PGE2 secretion, at lower concentrations than acetyl dipeptide‐1 cetyl ester. A formulation containing 4‐t‐butylcyclohexanol showed a significant immediate anti‐stinging/anti‐burning effect in vivo, and a cream base containing a combination of 4‐t‐butylcyclohexanol and a licochalcone A‐rich licorice extract reduced shaving‐induced erythema.

Conclusion

In vitro and in vivo data indicate that the combination of the TRPV1 antagonist 4‐t‐butylcyclohexanol and the potent anti‐inflammatory licochalcone A provide an effective active ingredient concept for the treatment of sensitive skin, as the topical application resulted in an immediate relief from symptoms such as erythema and stinging.
Comparison of skin calming effects of cosmetic products containing 4‐t‐butylcyclohexanol or acetyl dipeptide‐1 cetyl ester on capsaicin‐induced facial stinging in volunteers with sensitive skin
Authors: Schoelermann A.M. , Jung K.A. , Buck B. , Grönniger E. , Conzelmann S.
Published: January 2016

Objective

To assess and compare the skin calming effect of cosmetic products containing 4‐t‐butylcyclohexanol (Eucerin® UltraSensitive Soothing Care Dry Skin) or acetyl dipeptide‐1 cetyl ester (La Roche‐Posay Toleriane® Ultra Intense Soothing Care) on subjective symptoms of skin sensitivity, a controlled, single‐blind, randomized split‐face capsaicin‐induced stinging test was conducted.

Methods

Thirty‐one female test subjects, ranging from 19 to 65 years of age, with self‐perceived sensitive to very sensitive skin were enrolled. After a 3‐day preconditioning period with no application of facial products and positive reaction to stimulation with a 40 ppm capsaicin cream, the test products were randomly applied to either the right or left nasolabial fold. Burning severity was assessed immediately after capsaicin application, and 1, 2, 5, 10 and 15 min after application of the test products.

Results

All 31 subjects reported a stinging/burning sensation on both nasolabial folds after application of capsaicin. Treatment with the 4‐t‐butylcyclohexanol containing product resulted in significant lower values for burning/stinging after one, and two minutes post‐application in comparison to the values for the acetyl dipeptide‐1 cetyl ester containing product. No significant difference was determined between the two test products for the point in time with most intense burning sensation, the severity of burning and the duration of burning after capsaicin application and subsequent application of the test products.

Conclusion

Both products alleviated capsaicin‐induced burning during the first 15 min after application. A faster and more pronounced soothing effect in vivo was demonstrated for the 4‐t‐butylcyclohexanol containing cosmetic product in comparison to the acetyl dipeptide‐1 cetyl ester containing cosmetic formulation.
Skin compatibility and efficacy of a cosmetic skin care regimen with licochalcone A and 4‐t‐butylcyclohexanol in patients with rosacea subtype I
Authors: Schoelermann A.M. , Weber T.M. , Arrowitz C. , Rizer R.L. , Qian K. , Babcock M.
Published: January 2016

Background

Patients with rosacea often show facial sensitivity to cosmetics or skin care products that can influence the severity of symptoms and exacerbate erythema and inflammation. Nevertheless, special skin care is necessary to address cosmetic concerns and reduce the potential side‐effects of topical or oral treatment of the disease. Appropriate skin care should comprise gentle cleansing, effective moisturization, soothing actives, UV protection and concealing pigments to help neutralize the appearance of redness.

Objective

To determine the compatibility and efficacy of a skin care regimen (consisting of a cleanser, a day care with SPF25 and a night care) containing licochalcone A (Lic A), an anti‐irritant from the licorice plant Glycyrrhiza inflata, and 4‐t‐butylcyclohexanol (SymSitive®), a substance which acts as a sensitivity regulator, in female subjects with clinically determined subtype I rosacea.

Methods

Thirty‐two test subjects with mild to moderate rosacea used the skin care regimen daily for 8 weeks. Clinical assessment of erythema, subjective irritation and clinical photography were performed at baseline and after 4 and 8 weeks. Additionally, a quality‐of‐life questionnaire was filled out by the test subjects at baseline and week 8. The subjects completed a self‐assessment questionnaire on product properties after 4 and 8 weeks of product use.

Results

Clinical assessments and subject response confirmed very good tolerability of the regimen, a statistically significant improvement in clinical grading for erythema and tactile roughness at weeks 4 and 8 and on telangiectasia at week 8 when compared to baseline scores. A statistically significant improvement in facial redness (a*) values, based on the L*a*b* colorimetric system, was determined at week 4 and 8 in comparison to baseline. No difference in corneometric measurement was detected at week 4 and 8 compared to baseline.

Conclusion

The skin care regimen was found to be highly compatible with the sensitive facial skin of patients with rosacea subtype I and effective in improving signs of rosacea. Therefore, the daily use of skin care products containing LicA and SymSitive® in patients with rosacea improves the overall skin appearance and the quality of life of these patients.
Prediction of pharmacist intention to provide medication disposal education using the theory of planned behaviour
Authors: Tai Bik‐Wai Bilvick , Hata Micah , Wu Stephanie , Frausto Sonya , Law Anandi V.
Published: January 2016

Rationale, aims and objectives

Lack of familiarity with proper medication disposal options among patients can lead to personal and environmental safety concerns, besides signalling non‐adherence. Given that community pharmacists are in a position to educate patients, this study assessed community pharmacists' knowledge on medication disposal and examined the utility of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) in predicting their intention to provide medication disposal education to their patients.

Methods

A cross‐sectional, self‐administered survey was distributed to community pharmacists in California. Descriptive statistics were reported for all survey items. Cronbach's alpha and Pearson correlation were used to determine the reliability for the four TPB constructs (attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioural control and intention). Multiple linear regressions were performed to predict intent using the other three TPB constructs.

Results

Pharmacists (n = 142) demonstrated a positive intention to provide education (mean = 5.91 ± 1.22; range: 2 to 8), but most (67.9%) provided this information once a month or less. Attitude (β = 0.266, P = 0.001), subjective norm (β = 0.333, P < 0.001) and perceived behavioural control (β = 0.211, P = 0.009) were significant predictors of intention, accounting for 40.8% of the variance in intention to provide disposal education. Scale reliability ranged from 0.596 to 0.619 for the four constructs. Few pharmacists accurately selected all of the appropriate recommendations of disposal for non‐controlled and controlled substances (15.9% and 10.1%, respectively).

Conclusion

Pharmacists showed favourable attitude, subjective norm, perceived behaviour control and intention in providing such education. However, their knowledge in this area may be lacking and they are not consistently providing this information to their patients.
Why is polypharmacy increasing in aged care facilities? The views of Australian health care professionals
Authors: Jokanovic Natali , Tan Edwin C. K. , Dooley Michael J. , Kirkpatrick Carl M. , Elliott Rohan A. , Bell J. Simon
Published: January 2016

Rationale, aims and objectives

The prevalence of polypharmacy in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) is high and increasing. Although not necessarily inappropriate, polypharmacy has been associated with drug interactions, adverse drug events, geriatric syndromes and hospital admissions. The aim of this study was to identify and prioritize factors contributing to the increasing prevalence of polypharmacy in RACFs.

Methods

Seventeen health care professionals from metropolitan and regional Victoria and South Australia identified and prioritized factors using a modified nominal group technique.

Results

The top five factors ranked from most important to fifth most important were ‘changes in resident mix’, ‘increasing numbers of prescribers and the reluctance of one prescriber to discontinue a medicine commenced by another prescriber’, ‘better adherence to clinical practice guidelines’, ‘increasing reliance on locums’ and ‘greater recognition and pharmacological management of pain’.

Conclusions

Reasons for the increase in polypharmacy are multifactorial. Understanding the factors contributing to polypharmacy may help to guide future research and develop interventions to manage polypharmacy in RACFs.
Recent Literature on Medication Errors and Adverse Drug Events in Older Adults
Authors: Naples Jennifer G. , Hanlon Joseph T. , Schmader Kenneth E. , Semla Todd P.
Published: January 2016

Medication errors and adverse drug events are common in older adults, but locating literature addressing these issues is often challenging. The objective of this article is to summarize recent studies addressing medication errors and adverse drug events in a single location to improve accessibility for individuals working with older adults. A comprehensive literature search for studies published in 2014 was conducted, and 51 potential articles were identified. After critical review, 17 studies were selected for inclusion based on innovation; rigorous observational or experimental study designs; and use of reliable, valid measures. Four articles characterizing potentially inappropriate prescribing and interventions to optimize medication regimens were annotated and critiqued in detail. The authors hope that health policy‐makers and clinicians find this information helpful in improving the quality of care for older adults.
Prospecting and Exploring Anthropogenic Resource Deposits: The Case Study of Vienna's Subway Network
Authors: Lederer Jakob , Kleemann Fritz , Ossberger Markus , Rechberger Helmut , Fellner Johann
Published: January 2016

Urban mining is seen as a key strategy for the recovery of secondary raw materials from the built environment. Although large material stocks have been reported in infrastructure networks, their actual recoverability over time has received little attention so far. This article presents a case study on the prospection and exploration of the anthropogenic resources deposited in Vienna's subway network. After quantifying the built‐in materials in the network, a resource classification was performed, distinguishing between (1) materials that have to be replaced and are thus potentially extractable as secondary raw materials after a considerable time span (<100 years) and (2) materials remaining in the subway and thus are not extractable. Results given in tonnes (t) show that the subway network consists mainly of concrete (12,000,000 t), iron & steel (600,000 t), gravel (300,000 t), bricks (250,000 t), copper (10,000 t), and aluminum (6,000 t). A first evaluation demonstrated that 3% of the built‐in materials (mainly copper, aluminum, and gravel) have to be renewed after a considerable time span (<100 years) and, consequently, can be seen as potentially extractable resources. Ninety‐seven percent of the built‐in materials were classified as not extractable (mainly concrete, iron & steel, and bricks), because they were found in permanent structures and lines that have been declared as cultural heritage monuments. For the materials that were found to be potentially extractable as secondary raw materials, a further investigation that particularly considers their end of life in practice and the existence of a hibernating stock is required.
Effect of continuous aerobic vs. interval training on selected anthropometrical, physiological and functional parameters of adults with Down syndrome
Authors: Boer P.H. , Moss S. J.
Published: January 2016

Background

A large percentage of adults with Down syndrome (DS) are overweight and have extremely low aerobic capacities compared with the general population and persons with intellectual disability without DS. Previous aerobic training intervention studies showed limited potential to significantly ameliorate anthropometrical and cardiovascular variables. The primary purpose of this study was to determine the effect of continuous aerobic training (CAT) vs. interval training (IT) on selected anthropometrical, health, physical and functional parameters of adults with DS.

Methods

Forty‐two adults with DS (25 men and 17 women) and a mean age of 33.8 (±8.6) years were randomly allocated to one of three groups (IT, CAT and control). Training was performed for 12 weeks. The IT group performed 10–30 s all out sprints with 90 s (1:3 work‐rest ratio) of low cadence, low intensity cycling or walking. The CAT group performed continuous cycling and walking at an intensity of 70–80% of VO2 peak. Heart rate monitors were used for monitoring training intensities. After 6 weeks of training, the intensity of the CAT was increased to 85% of VO2 peak, whilst the intensity of the IT group remained ‘all out’. An increase of 5 min in duration was implemented after 6 weeks for both training groups. To evaluate pre–post differences between groups, a repeated analysis of covariance with post hoc Bonferroni test was performed

Results

After 12 weeks of training, body weight and body mass index decreased significantly more in the IT group compared with control and CAT (P < 0.05). Participants in the IT group decreased their body weight from 71.4 ± 8 to 69.4 ± 8 kg and their body mass index from 29.3 ± 4 to 28.5 ± 4 kg/m2. Significant ameliorations for functional parameters and leg strength were shown for CAT compared with control (P < 0.05). Participants in the CAT group improved their performance in the 6 minute walk distance (499 ± 78 to 563 ± 75 m), 8‐ft up‐and‐go (5.9 ± 1.2 to 4.8 ± 0.9) and leg strength (13.1 ± 2 to 15.2 ± 2). VO2 peak and time to exhaustion significantly improved in both the IT and CAT group compared with control (P < 0.01). Moreover, a significant improvement for relative VO2 peak was also determined for IT compared with CAT (P < 0.05). Participants in the IT group increased their VO2 peak from 32 ± 8 to 37 ± 8 mL/min/kg. Submaximal heart rate and VO2 values improved significantly within both exercise groups (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Interval training and CAT can both be pursued by adults with DS to positively impact on various parameters of anthropometry, fitness and functional ability, with IT more appropriate for improving body weight and aerobic capacity.
Comparing the quality of life of adults with and without intellectual disability
Authors: Simões C. , Santos S.
Published: January 2016

Background

Quality of life (QOL) is an important issue for all citizens, comprising equity, equality, inclusion and participation of each person in society. The research purposes driving this investigation were (1) to compare QOL among people with and without intellectual disability (ID) and (2) to examine the predictors of QOL in both groups of participants.

Methods

Data were collected from 1929 adults, including 1264 individuals with an ID and the remainder (n = 665) were participants without a disability. QOL was assessed by the Portuguese version of the Personal Outcomes Scale.

Results

The findings supported significantly higher QOL for adults without ID. Furthermore, QOL is influenced by individual and environmental variables, stressing that the health status was the highest mutual predictor of QOL among those with and without ID.

Conclusion

The gaps among both groups of participants should be addressed in service provision and policies. Taking into account the research findings, the personalised supports should enable the full inclusion and participation of adults with ID in community‐based settings.
Life After Bariatric Surgery: Perceptions of Male Patients and Their Intimate Relationships
Authors: Moore Darren D. , Cooper Clinton E.
Published: January 2016

This study explores the experiences of 20 men who have had bariatric surgery, focusing on their couple or marital relationships. The researcher concentrates on men's perspectives regarding relationship satisfaction, sexual intimacy, and social support after surgical intervention. Phenomenology and family systems theory were used to guide the study from which emerged three themes: (a) Unintended consequences (unpredicted problems occurring within intimate relationships); (b) Intimacy as bittersweet (experiencing increasing levels of intimacy, while still desiring more); and (c) Inconsistent social support (experiencing instances where social support is provided, while simultaneously experiencing other areas where social support is not provided). The study includes a rich description of the data, critical analysis, and discussion of clinical implications for therapists and other healthcare professionals.
Development of the Gay and Lesbian Relationship Satisfaction Scale
Authors: Belous Christopher K. , Wampler Richard S.
Published: January 2016

This article describes the development and evaluation of the Gay and Lesbian Relationship Satisfaction Scale (GLRSS) as a measure of individuals' gay and lesbian same‐gender relationship satisfaction and social support. Clinicians and researchers administer relationship satisfaction scales to persons in gay and lesbian relationships with a heteronormative assumption that scales developed and validated with opposite‐gender couples measure identical relationship issues. Gay and Lesbian couples have unique concerns that influence relationship satisfaction, most notably social support. Using online recruitment and data collection, the GLRSS was evaluated with data from 275 gay and lesbian individuals in a same‐gender relationship.
Mechanical Properties and Simulated Aging of Silicone Maxillofacial Elastomers: Advancements in the Past 45 Years
Authors: Hatamleh Muhanad M. , Polyzois Gregory L. , Nuseir Amjad , Hatamleh Khaldoun , Alnazzawi Ahmad
Published: January 2016

Purpose

To identify and discuss the findings of publications on mechanical behavior of maxillofacial prosthetic materials published since 1969.

Methods

Original experimental articles reporting on mechanical properties of maxillofacial prosthetic materials were included. A two‐stage search of the literature, electronic and hand search, identified relevant published studies up to May 2015. An extensive electronic search was conducted of databases including PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Included primary studies (n = 63) reported on tensile strength, tear strength, and hardness of maxillofacial prosthetic materials at baseline and after aging.

Results

The search revealed 63 papers, with more than 28 papers being published in the past 10 years, which shows an increased number of publications when compared to only 6 papers published in the 1970s. The increase is linear with significant correlation (r = 0.85). Such an increase reflects great awareness and continued developments and warrants more research in the field of maxillofacial prosthetic materials properties; however, it is difficult to directly compare results, as studies varied in maxillofacial prosthetic materials tested with various silicone elastomers being heavily investigated, standards followed in preparing test specimens, experimental testing protocols, and parameters used in setting simulated aging conditionings.

Conclusion

It is imperative to overcome the existing variability by establishing unified national or international standards/specifications for maxillofacial prosthetic materials. Standardization organizations or bodies, the scientific community, and academia need to be coordinated to achieve this goal. In the meantime and despite all of these theoretically significant alternatives, clinical practice still faces problems with serviceability of maxillofacial prostheses.
Perfectionistic Concerns, Social Negativity, and Subjective Well‐Being: A Test of the Social Disconnection Model
Authors: Mackinnon Sean P. , Kehayes Ivy‐Lee L. , Leonard Kenneth E. , Fraser Ronald , Stewart Sherry H.
Published: January 2016

Partner‐specific perfectionistic concerns (PC) include concern over mistakes, self‐criticism, and socially prescribed perfectionism as it pertains to one's partner. The social disconnection model proposes that PC influences well‐being indirectly through interpersonal problems. Thus, we hypothesized that social negativity (expressed anger, hostility, and rejection) would mediate the relationship between dyadic PC and subjective well‐being. Data from 203 romantic dyads (92.1% heterosexual) were collected using self‐report surveys and a four‐wave, 4‐week longitudinal design. Participants were predominantly female (53.1%), young (M = 22.69 years), and Caucasian (82.3%). Data were analyzed using an actor‐partner interdependence model with multilevel structural equation modeling. There were significant actor effects at the between‐subjects and within‐subjects levels, and significant partner effects for the relationship between PC and social negativity at the within‐subject level. Social negativity mediated the relationships between PC and both negative affect and life satisfaction. However, positive affect was more weakly related to PC and social negativity. The social disconnection model was supported. PC was positively associated with one's own social negativity and evoked hostile behaviors from one's partner. Hostile, rejecting behaviors reduced the well‐being of the actor, but not the partner. Results suggest perfectionism may be best understood within an interpersonal context.
Hatching plasticity in response to salinity levels in a rhacophorid frog inhabiting a coastal area
Authors: Haramura T.
Published: January 2016

Embryos within egg capsules often suffer mortality risk from abiotic and biotic factors, and embryos have a few options available for their defence. Altering timing of hatching is one of the defensive behaviours against risk of egg mortality. However, inappropriate hatching timing, such as early hatching may incur a cost because of a reduction in body size and developmental stage at hatching. Therefore, embryos within egg capsules need accurate information about their egg‐mortality risk to adjust their hatching timing. To examine whether embryos are able to detect the risk level of egg mortality and adjust hatching timing accordingly, embryos are exposed within egg capsules of a frog, Buergeria japonica, to different salinity levels. Salinity is a major mortality risk for amphibian eggs, and eggs of this frog are exposed to unexpected salinity fluctuation because spawning occurs in coastal areas. When exposed to high salinity, embryos of B. japonica hatched earlier than those exposed to low salinity. Especially, when transferred to salinity levels of 5‰ or more, embryos hatched almost immediately. Hatchlings that emerged earlier showed small body size, earlier developmental stage and low swimming performance, whereas hatchlings that emerged from egg capsules later had larger body mass and better swimming performance. This study demonstrated that salinity is one of the triggers that induce early hatching in amphibians, and embryos of B. japonica adjust hatching timing based on salinity differences.
Discrimination in the Credit Market? Access to Financial Capital among Self‐employed Immigrants
Authors: Aldén Lina , Hammarstedt Mats
Published: January 2016

We present results from a unique combination of survey and register data regarding access to financial capital conducted among immigrants who are self‐employed in private firms in Sweden's retail, trade, and service sectors. This study is the first to examine discrimination against self‐employed immigrants in the credit market of a developed economy outside the US. The results demonstrate that non‐European immigrants consider access to financial capital a more serious impediment to their self‐employment activities than do native Swedes and European immigrants. Self‐employed non‐European immigrants report more discrimination by banks, suppliers, and customers than do natives and immigrants from European countries. Immigrant‐owned firms apply for bank loans to a larger extent than do firms owned by natives. Non‐European immigrants especially are more likely than natives to have a loan denied, and they are also charged higher interest rates on their bank loans than natives. The results are robust to various different robustness checks. The occurrence of ethnic discrimination in the market for bank loans is put forward as an explanation for these results. Limited or lack of access to financial capital is a major obstacle to self‐employment among certain immigrant groups. This obstacle may be one explanation for the high exit rates from self‐employment among immigrants, a finding that has been documented in several countries including Sweden.
The Long Shadows of Spanish and French Colonial Education
Authors: Feldmann Horst
Published: January 2016

Both Spanish and French colonial education included several features that restricted education. Many of them persisted long after independence. Against this background, this paper econometrically studies whether in the recent past the colonial legacy still affected schooling in the ex‐colonies of these two former colonial powers – and, for comparison, in the ex‐colonies of Britain, the third of the former big three colonial powers. Using a large sample of countries and numerous controls, it finds substantial negative effects on both secondary enrollment and average years of schooling in former French and, especially, in former Spanish colonies. The negative effects on females are particularly large. By contrast, there are no effects in former British colonies.
Decomposing Welfare Wedges: An Analysis of Welfare Dependence of Immigrants and Natives in Europe
Authors: Huber Peter , Oberdabernig Doris A.
Published: January 2016

We study the reasons for differences in welfare benefit receipt between immigrants and natives in 16 EU countries using Oaxaca‐Blinder decompositions of a Heckman model. Differences in welfare benefit receipt diminish or disappear altogether after controlling for differences in characteristics of the two groups. The largest part of this is explained by differences in benefit take‐up rather than benefit levels conditional on benefit receipt. The characteristics contributing most to native–immigrant welfare wedges in contributory benefits are differences in age. For non‐contributory benefits, differences in household size and composition are most important. Overall results thus suggest a limited capability of selective immigration policies to reduce welfare benefit receipt among immigrants.
Environmental Quality and International Migration
Authors: Xu Xu , Sylwester Kevin
Published: January 2016

Anecdotal evidence suggests that people migrate to avoid air pollution. In this paper, we empirically examine the extent to which air pollution is a push factor for international migration. We allow air pollution to affect migrants differently according to their educational attainment as well as their gender. We also instrument for the level of pollution. Results generally show that air pollution is positively associated with emigration for higher educated individuals but less so for those with less educational attainment. Gender differences are less pronounced.
Reticulate evolutionary history and extensive introgression in mosquito species revealed by phylogenetic network analysis
Authors: Wen Dingqiao , Yu Yun , Hahn Matthew W. , Nakhleh Luay
Published: January 2016

The role of hybridization and subsequent introgression has been demonstrated in an increasing number of species. Recently, Fontaine et al. (Science, 347, 2015, 1258524) conducted a phylogenomic analysis of six members of the Anopheles gambiae species complex. Their analysis revealed a reticulate evolutionary history and pointed to extensive introgression on all four autosomal arms. The study further highlighted the complex evolutionary signals that the co‐occurrence of incomplete lineage sorting (ILS) and introgression can give rise to in phylogenomic analyses. While tree‐based methodologies were used in the study, phylogenetic networks provide a more natural model to capture reticulate evolutionary histories. In this work, we reanalyse the Anopheles data using a recently devised framework that combines the multispecies coalescent with phylogenetic networks. This framework allows us to capture ILS and introgression simultaneously, and forms the basis for statistical methods for inferring reticulate evolutionary histories. The new analysis reveals a phylogenetic network with multiple hybridization events, some of which differ from those reported in the original study. To elucidate the extent and patterns of introgression across the genome, we devise a new method that quantifies the use of reticulation branches in the phylogenetic network by each genomic region. Applying the method to the mosquito data set reveals the evolutionary history of all the chromosomes. This study highlights the utility of ‘network thinking’ and the new insights it can uncover, in particular in phylogenomic analyses of large data sets with extensive gene tree incongruence.
Development of broad virus resistance in non‐transgenic cucumber using CRISPR/Cas9 technology
Authors: Chandrasekaran Jeyabharathy , Brumin Marina , Wolf Dalia , Leibman Diana , Klap Chen , Pearlsman Mali , Sherman Amir , Arazi Tzahi , Gal‐On Amit
Published: January 2016

Genome editing in plants has been boosted tremendously by the development of CRISPR/Cas9 (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) technology. This powerful tool allows substantial improvement in plant traits in addition to those provided by classical breeding. Here, we demonstrate the development of virus resistance in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) using Cas9/subgenomic RNA (sgRNA) technology to disrupt the function of the recessive eIF4E (eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E) gene. Cas9/sgRNA constructs were targeted to the N′ and C′ termini of the eIF4E gene. Small deletions and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were observed in the eIF4E gene targeted sites of transformed T1 generation cucumber plants, but not in putative off‐target sites. Non‐transgenic heterozygous eif4e mutant plants were selected for the production of non‐transgenic homozygous T3 generation plants. Homozygous T3 progeny following Cas9/sgRNA that had been targeted to both eif4e sites exhibited immunity to Cucumber vein yellowing virus (Ipomovirus) infection and resistance to the potyviruses Zucchini yellow mosaic virus and Papaya ring spot mosaic virus‐W. In contrast, heterozygous mutant and non‐mutant plants were highly susceptible to these viruses. For the first time, virus resistance has been developed in cucumber, non‐transgenically, not visibly affecting plant development and without long‐term backcrossing, via a new technology that can be expected to be applicable to a wide range of crop plants.
Echinocandin resistance and population structure of invasive Candida glabrata isolates from two university hospitals in Germany and Austria
Authors: Klotz Ulrike , Schmidt Dirk , Willinger Birgit , Steinmann Eike , Buer Jan , Rath Peter‐Michael , Steinmann Joerg
Published: January 2016

Echinocandin resistance in Candida glabrata is emerging and is associated with the presence of FKS mutations. In this study, we analysed the antifungal susceptibility, presence of FKS mutations and clonality of C. glabrata blood culture isolates from two hospitals in Germany and Austria. Susceptibility testing of 64 C. glabrata bloodstream isolates from two university hospitals was performed with broth microdilution method according to EUCAST. In addition, all isolates were screened for FKS mutations. Molecular fingerprinting was performed by microsatellite PCR with three separate primer pairs and semiautomated repetitive sequenced‐based PCR (rep‐PCR). One C. glabrata isolate from Germany (1.5%) was echinocandin resistant, with a corresponding mutation in FKS2 gene hot spot 1. The discriminatory power of microsatellite PCR was higher than that of rep‐PCR (Simpson Index of 0.94 vs. 0.88); microsatellite PCR created 31 separate genotypes, whereas rep‐PCR created 17. Predominant genotypes or clusters of isolates from Germany and Austria were present, with no epidemiological evidence of nosocomial transmissions. Although we found a low incidence of echinocandin resistance in C. glabrata in our settings, further surveillance projects in central Europe are warranted for monitoring future epidemiological trends. The genetic population structure of C. glabrata demonstrates overrepresented geographical clusters.
The mysterious case of the public health guideline that is (almost) entirely ignored: call for a research agenda on the causes of the extreme avoidance of physical activity in obesity
Authors: Ekkekakis P. , Vazou S. , Bixby W. R. , Georgiadis E.
Published: January 2016

Physical activity and exercise guidelines for weight management call for at least 60 min of daily activity. However, these documents fail to acknowledge that almost no obese adults meet this target and that non‐adherence and dropout are even higher among obese individuals than the general population. The reasons for this level of activity avoidance among obese individuals remain poorly understood, and there are no evidence‐based methods for addressing the problem. Opinions among exercise scientists are polarized. Some advocate moderate intensity and long duration, whereas others call for high intensity and shorter duration. The latter approach attributes the inactivity and high dropout to limited discretionary time and the slow accrual of visible benefits. However, higher intensity has been associated with non‐adherence and dropout, whereas longer duration has not. A conceptual model is then proposed, according to which obesity interacts with intensity, causing physical activity and exercise to be associated with reduced pleasure among obese individuals. We theorize that, in turn, repeated experiences of reduced pleasure lead to avoidance. On this basis, we call for a research agenda aimed at identifying the causes of activity‐associated and exercise‐associated displeasure in obesity and, by extension, the causes of the extreme physical inactivity among obese individuals.
Vitamin C: the known and the unknown and Goldilocks
Authors: Padayatty SJ , Levine M
Published: January 2016

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid), the antiscorbutic vitamin, cannot be synthesized by humans and other primates, and has to be obtained from diet. Ascorbic acid is an electron donor and acts as a cofactor for fifteen mammalian enzymes. Two sodium‐dependent transporters are specific for ascorbic acid, and its oxidation product dehydroascorbic acid is transported by glucose transporters. Ascorbic acid is differentially accumulated by most tissues and body fluids. Plasma and tissue vitamin C concentrations are dependent on amount consumed, bioavailability, renal excretion, and utilization. To be biologically meaningful or to be clinically relevant, in vitro and in vivo studies of vitamin C actions have to take into account physiologic concentrations of the vitamin. In this paper, we review vitamin C physiology; the many phenomena involving vitamin C where new knowledge has accrued or where understanding remains limited; raise questions about the vitamin that remain to be answered; and explore lines of investigations that are likely to be fruitful.
Anesthetic considerations for patients with Bardet–Biedl syndrome: a case series and review of the literature
Authors: Smith Bradford B. , Barbara David W. , Hyder Joseph A. , Smith Mark M.
Published: January 2016

Background

Bardet–Biedl syndrome (BBS) is a rare genetic condition with manifestations that can impact anesthetic and perioperative care. There is a void of literature describing the perioperative anesthetic management in this complex patient population.

Objectives

The purpose of this retrospective series was to describe the perioperative care of patients diagnosed with BBS at a large academic tertiary referral center with experience in caring for these patients.

Methods

All patients receiving anesthesia during the time between July 10, 1997 and Jan 1, 2015 were identified. Anesthetic and perioperative records were reviewed in detail for demographic, echocardiographic, preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative data.

Results

We identified 12 patients with BBS undergoing 40 anesthetics at our institution. The study identified a high risk for difficult airway with need for advanced airway techniques (67% of patient's ≥18 years of age required either awake fiberoptic or video laryngoscopy techniques), cardiac abnormalities, renal impairment, morbid obesity, and intellectual disability as the main syndrome manifestations of interest to the anesthesiologist. No patient had perioperative complications directly related to BBS; however, each underwent thorough perioperative evaluation with emphasis on the systemic comorbidities associated with the syndrome. This report illustrates that patients with BBS can safely undergo anesthesia, but a detailed and often multidisciplinary preoperative evaluation is prudent.
Cognitive Penetration and the Epistemology of Perception
Authors: Silins Nicholas
Published: January 2016

If our experiences are cognitively penetrable, they can be influenced by our antecedent expectations, beliefs, or other cognitive states. Theorists such as Churchland, Fodor, Macpherson, and Siegel have debated whether and how our cognitive states might influence our perceptual experiences, as well as how any such influences might affect the ability of our experiences to justify our beliefs about the external world. This article surveys views about the nature of cognitive penetration, the epistemological consequences of denying cognitive penetration, and the epistemological consequences of affirming cognitive penetration.
Methods of mesophyll conductance estimation: its impact on key biochemical parameters and photosynthetic limitations in phosphorus‐stressed soybean across CO2
Authors: Singh Shardendu K. , Reddy Vangimalla R.
Published: January 2016

Despite the development of various methods, the rapid estimation of mesophyll conductance (gm) for a large number of samples is still a daunting challenge. Although the accurate estimation of gm is critical to partition photosynthetic limitations by stomatal (Ls) and mesophyll (Lm) conductance and by photo‐biochemical (Lb) processes, the impact of various gm estimation methods on this is ambiguous. As phosphorus (P) starvation and elevated CO2 (eCO2) strongly affect photosynthetic processes, their combined effect on the proportional changes in these limitations are not well understood. To investigate this, while also evaluating distinct recent methods of gm estimation sharing few common theories and assumptions, soybean was grown under a range of P nutrition at ambient and eCO2. Methods significantly affected gm and carboxylation efficiency (VCmax) but not other photosynthetic parameters. In all the methods, all photosynthetic parameters responded similarly to treatments. However, the percentage difference between VCmax assuming finite and infinite gm was highly inconsistent among methods. The primary mechanism responsible for P limitation to soybean photosynthesis was not CO2 diffusion limitations but Lb comprised of reduced chlorophyll, photochemistry and biochemical processes. The eCO2 decreased Lb but increased Lm without affecting Ls across leaf P concentration. Although each method explored advances of our understanding about gm variability, they all require assumptions of varying degrees, which lead to the discrepancy in the gm values. Among the methods, the oxygen sensitivity‐based gm estimation appeared to be suitable for the quick assessment of a large number of samples or genotypes. Digital tools are provided for the easy estimation of gm for some methods.
Genome‐wide identification and characterization of Eutrema salsugineummicroRNAs for salt tolerance
Authors: Wu Ying , Guo Jing , Cai Yimei , Gong Xiaolin , Xiong Xuemei , Qi Wenwen , Pang Qiuying , Wang Xumin , Wang Yang
Published: January 2016

Eutrema salsugineum, a close relative of Arabidopsis thaliana, is a valuable halophytic model plant that has extreme tolerance to salinity. As posttranscriptional gene regulators, microRNAs (miRNAs) control gene expression and a variety of biological processes, including plant‐stress responses. To identify salt‐stress responsive miRNAs in E. salsugineum and reveal their possible roles in the adaptive response to salt stress, we chose the Solexa sequencing platform to screen the miRNAs in 4‐week‐old E. salsugineum seedlings under salt treatment. A total of 82 conserved miRNAs belonging to 27 miRNA families and 17 novel miRNAs were identified and 11 conserved miRNA families and 4 novel miRNAs showed a significant response to salt stress. To investigate the possible biological roles of miRNAs, 1060 potential targets were predicted. Moreover, 35 gene ontology (GO) categories and 1 pathway, including a few terms that were directly and indirectly related to salt stress, were significantly enriched in the salt‐stress‐responsive miRNAs targets. The relative expression analysis of six target genes was analyzed using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and showed a negative correlation with their corresponding miRNAs. Many stress regulatory and phytohormone regulatory cis‐regulatory elements were widely present in the promoter region of the salt‐responsive miRNA precursors. This study describes the large‐scale characterization of E. salsugineum miRNAs and provides a useful resource for further understanding of miRNA functions in the regulation of the E. salsugineum salt‐stress response.
Do restored oyster reefs benefit seagrasses? An experimental study in the Northern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Sharma Shailesh , Goff Joshua , Moody Ryan M. , Byron Dorothy , Heck Kenneth L. , Powers Sean P. , Ferraro Carl , Cebrian Just
Published: January 2016

Oyster reefs and seagrass beds are being lost worldwide at alarming rates. These habitats provide many services to humankind and, thus, much effort has been dedicated to their restoration. Here, we examine the efficacy of created oyster reefs at enhancing seagrass beds through the amelioration of hydrographic conditions and water quality. We carried out a field experiment in the Northern Gulf of Mexico where we compared areas shoreward of created reefs with adjacent reef‐free areas over several years using a before‐after control‐impact (BACI) design. The reefs were built with oyster shell, measured 65 m, and were placed at circa 100 m from the shoreline to ensure subtidal conditions and enhance oyster recruitment. The BACI results showed few and disparate effects of the reefs, even when distance from the reef was factored in. However, we found a temporal increase in seagrass cover throughout all the experimental area (i.e. including both reef and control plots) following reef deployment. Interestingly, further analysis with satellite imagery showed the experimental area had higher seagrass cover 5 years after reef deployment than it did before reef deployment, but such increase was not observed for nearby areas. In concert, the results suggest “shadow” effects for the reefs examined, where positive effects on seagrass beds extend beyond the area directly shoreward from the reef. Oyster reef restoration may have positive impacts on shallow seagrass beds in turbid, high‐energy systems; however, more work on the extent and mechanisms for this interaction is needed.
Neutrophil extracellular traps are associated with inflammation in chronic airway disease
Authors: Wright Thomas K. , Gibson Peter G. , Simpson Jodie L. , McDonald Vanessa M. , Wood Lisa G. , Baines Katherine J.
Published: January 2016

Background and objective

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are web‐like structures comprising DNA and antimicrobial proteins, expelled from neutrophils during NETosis. Persistence of NETs can be pro‐inflammatory, yet their role in respiratory disease remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the presence of NETs in sputum from patients with asthma and COPD, and the relationship of NETs with inflammatory phenotype and disease severity.

Methods

Induced sputum was collected from healthy controls, asthma and COPD patients. Extracellular DNA (eDNA) was quantified by PicoGreen. LL‐37, α‐defensins1–3, NE, IL‐1β and CXCL8 were quantified by ELISA. PAD4 and NLRP3 gene expression was performed using qPCR. NETs were imaged in sputum smears using immunofluorescence microscopy.

Results

Sputum eDNA and NET neutrophil antimicrobial proteins were significantly elevated in asthma and COPD compared with healthy controls. Levels of eDNA and NET components were significantly higher in neutrophilic versus non‐neutrophilic asthma and COPD. NETs were clearly visualized in sputum smears. PAD4 mRNA was upregulated in neutrophilic COPD. The level of eDNA was higher in severe asthma. High eDNA levels were associated with heightened innate immune responses, including elevated CXCL8 and IL‐1β, and NLRP3 gene expression in both COPD and asthma. Antimicrobial proteins and eDNA were positively correlated with airway neutrophils, and negatively correlated with lung function and symptoms.

Conclusion

NETs are present in the airways of subjects with asthma and COPD. Accumulation of excessive NETs was associated with activation of innate immune responses contributing to disease pathogenesis in chronic airway disease.