bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antibiotic prescribing for endodontic therapies: a comparative survey between general dental practitioners and final year Bachelor of Dental Surgery students in Cardiff, UK
Authors: Al Masan A. A. , Dummer P. M. H. , Farnell D. J. J. , Vianna M. E.
Published: January 2018

Aim

To evaluate the views of final year dental surgery students (BDS; G1) at Cardiff University and general dental practitioners (GDPs; G2) within the geographic area of Cardiff, Wales, on antibiotic prescribing for endodontic conditions, and investigate the potential differences between the two groups.

Methods

A cross‐sectional online questionnaire‐based survey of 12 qualitative and quantitative questions was distributed to 76 final year BDS Cardiff University students and 55 dental practices within Cardiff, UK. Six questions recorded general information, and the remaining questions included a series of hypothetical clinical scenarios, where the participants were asked to state whether they would or would not prescribe antibiotics. The data were analysed using spss version 23 to produce descriptive statistics, contingency tables and to run chi‐square (χ²) tests, Fisher's exact tests and relative risk calculations.

Results

The response rate was 60% (n = 79). All G1 participants were aware of the consequences of antibiotic overuse. Approximately 60% of responders were aware of guidelines for antibiotic use in endodontic therapies, and 83% would only use antibiotics for a limited selection of patients (e.g. patients with systemic complications). G1 responses to clinical scenarios indicated overall that they were comparable to the ideal answers except for acute apical abscess (64% believed that antibiotics were indicated). The majority of G2 were aware of the consequences of antibiotic overuse. Only 28% of G2 were aware of guidelines for antibiotic use in endodontic therapies. Overall responses revealed that antibiotics would be prescribed for: systemic complications (78%), acute apical abscess (72%) and symptomatic apical periodontitis (28%). The clinical scenarios revealed G1 were more likely to prescribe antibiotics compared to G2 for cases of necrotic pulp with symptomatic apical periodontitis without systemic complications (incorrect answer) and less likely to other clinical scenarios such as necrotic pulp and asymptomatic apical periodontitis for patients with a history of rheumatic fever (ideal answers), symptomatic irreversible/reversible pulpitis, failure to achieve anaesthesia, chronic apical abscess for patients with diabetes. The recognition of antibiotic prescription for cases with signs of spreading infection was more evident in G2.

Conclusion

Final year undergraduate students were aware of the antibiotic resistance crisis, although a third was not aware of guidelines for use of antibiotics in endodontic conditions; their responses to clinical scenario were generally compatible with the guidelines. General dentists were less aware of the implications of overuse of antibiotics and the existence of guidelines, and their responses were occasionally incompatible with antibiotic guidelines for endodontic therapies.
Promoter hypermethylation of SOX11 correlates with adverse clinicopathological features of human prostate cancer
Authors: Pugongchai Apiwat , Bychkov Andrey , Sampatanukul Pichet
Published: January 2018

Currently available tools for early diagnosis and prognosis of prostate cancer lack sufficient accuracy. There is a need to identify novel biomarkers for this common malignancy. SOX family genes play an important role in embryogenesis and are also implicated in various cancers. SOX11 has been recently recognized as a potential tumour suppressor that is downregulated in prostate cancer. We hypothesized that hypermethylation may be responsible for SOX11 silencing in human prostate cancer. The aim of the study was to investigate SOX11 promoter methylation in prostate adenocarcinoma by comparing it with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). A total of 143 human prostate tissue samples, 62 from patients with prostate cancer and 81 from patients with BPH were examined by methylation‐specific PCR. Associations between SOX11 promoter methylation and clinicopathological parameters were assessed by univariate statistics. Detection rates of SOX11 promoter methylation were 80.6% and 35.8% in prostate cancer and BPH respectively (P < 0.001). SOX11 hypermethylation was associated with adverse clinicopathological characteristics of prostate cancer, including higher PSA level (P < 0.01), Gleason score ≥ 7 (P = 0.03) and perineural invasion (P = 0.03). SOX11 methylation was positively correlated with the PSA level (P = 0.001). Our data indicated that SOX11 can be a promising methylation marker candidate for differential diagnosis and risk stratification for prostate cancer.
Synthesis of mesoporous magnesium phosphates as dispersing carriers for cryptotanshinone solid dispersions
Authors: Zhou Huan , Bi Yaping , Yang Mengmeng , Wang Wenjie , Ni Xinye , Xu Defeng
Published: January 2018

In current work, solid dispersions (SDs) of Cryptotanshinone (CPT) using mesoporous magnesium phosphates (MgPs) as the dispersing carrier (CPT‐MgPs SDs) were prepared, characterized, and evaluated. Three mesoporous MgPs (MgP, MgP‐Vc, and MgP‐Triton) with different phases and morphology were hydrothermally synthesized first. After that, they were combined with CPT to prepare SDs by an ethanol‐based solvent evaporation method. It was observed that the large CPT crystals were transformed into amorphous micro‐molecular particles and well dispersed in MgPs nanoparticles after the solvent evaporation procedure. In addition, all MgPs were self‐assembled into microspherical agglomerates of palate‐like particles. The dissolution studies of CPT from MgPs indicated that 1) the dissolution of CPT from SDs can be improved on comparison to pure CPT, 2) MgP is the best among all carrier tested, but still not satisfactory. In addition, 2 other phenomena about CPT‐MgP SD were observed. One was that an apparent increasing trend is seen between the MgP weight ratios and the dissolution rate of CPT. The other one was that MgP can be a pH responsive carrier to tailor the dissolution behavior of CPT. Development of promising SD with CPT solubility improvement, pH responsibility, and sustained drug release ability is still deserved in future.
Nostalgia and consumer preference for indulgent foods: The role of social connectedness
Authors: Wang Xuehua , Keh Hean Tat , Chao Chen‐Ho
Published: January 2018

Prior qualitative research suggests a strong association between nostalgia and indulgent food consumption. Nonetheless, these qualitative findings do not explain the causal relationship between nostalgia and indulgent food consumption, or the mechanism underlying this relationship. To this end, the authors conduct four studies and show that highly nostalgic consumers have greater preference for indulgent foods. This relationship is mediated by social connectedness, whereby high (low) nostalgia works through high (low) social connectedness to increase (decrease) consumers’ preference for indulgent foods. This effect is moderated by eating companions, such that the effect of nostalgia on consumers’ preference for indulgent foods would be strengthened (vs. weakened) when eating with friends (vs. with strangers or alone). These findings have significant implications on consumer well‐being and policy‐making pertaining to consumer health.
Nail changes in alopecia areata: an update and review
Authors: Chelidze Khatiya , Lipner Shari R.
Published: January 2018

Nail changes are a common feature of alopecia areata (AA) and are a significant source of cosmetic disfigurement and functional impairment. This review provides an update of the prevalence, clinical and histopathological features, pathogenesis, differential diagnosis, clinical course, prognosis, and management of nail changes in patients with AA. Searches for peer‐reviewed journal articles were conducted using the PubMed/MEDLINE database with the search terms “nail changes alopecia areata,” “alopecia areata nails,” and specific searches on “trachyonychia alopecia areata” and “pitting alopecia areata.” Other sources of articles included the reference lists of retrieved articles. Nail changes are a common feature of AA, with an average prevalence of 30%, and can cause significant disfigurement and loss of function. Pitting and trachyonychia were by far the most common manifestations of AA, with an average prevalence of 20 and 8%, respectively. Red spotted lunulae, onycholysis, and punctate leukonychia were other reported findings. Other etiologies, such as onychomycosis or lichen planus, may coexist with or confound the diagnosis. There is limited published data on the clinical manifestations of AA‐associated nail changes and therapeutic options. Larger controlled trials are necessary to guide treatment decisions.
Regulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase by arabinoxylans with molecular characterisation from wheat flour in cultured human monocytes
Authors: Zhang Zhengxiao , Smith Christopher , Ashworth Jason , Li Weili
Published: January 2018

The immunomodulatory activity of the arabinoxylans (AXs) extracts from cereal sources has been reported to impart health benefits in terms of immune enhancement. This study investigated the effect of enzymatic extraction on extraction yield and structure of AXs from wheat flour pentosan fraction. Under the optimised conditions, the extraction yield of AXs reached up to 81.25%. Furthermore, the study determined whether water‐extracted AXs (WEAXs) and enzyme‐extracted AXs (E‐WEAXs) from wheat flour were able to differentially stimulate nitric oxide (NO) secretion through increased levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in human U937 monocytes. The results indicated that AXs concomitantly induced (P < 0.05) both NO and iNOS productions in U937 monocytes compared to untreated cells. Compared with WEAXs, E‐WEAXs resulted in a higher proportion of low Mw (1–10 KDa) AXs (49.51% vs. 19.11% in WEAXs), a higher A/X ratio (0.83 vs. 0.48 in WEAXs) and a higher yield (12.83 ± 0.35% vs. 7.54 ± 0.47% in WEAXs). Moreover, E‐WEAXs induced significantly (P < 0.05) greater NO and iNOS production per million viable cells (61.8 ± 2.7 μm and 42.41 ± 3.83 ng respectively) than WEAXs (51.6 ± 2.6 μm and 33.46 ± 1.48 ng, respectively). The findings suggest AXs may heighten innate immune activity in the absence of infection or disease through an iNOS‐mediated stimulation of NO production. The immunomodulatory activity of the wheat‐derived AXs was enhanced by enzyme treatment, with low Mw and high A/X ratio associated with elevated NO/iNOS levels in human monocytes compared to water extraction.
Public risk perception of non-prescription medicines and information disclosure during consultations: a suitable target for intervention?
Authors: Fielding Shona , Slovic Paul , Johnston Marie , Lee Amanda J , Bond Christine M , Watson Margaret C
Published: January 2018

Objective

Optimisation of non-prescription medicine (NPM) supply from community pharmacies could reduce demand on other healthcare providers, including general practitioners and emergency department personnel. Outcomes can be maximised if patients disclose relevant information, for example concomitant medication, during pharmacy-based consultations. Strategies to promote information disclosure are needed. This study used the psychometric paradigm of risk to explore whether the public's risk perception of NPMs was associated with information disclosure.

Methods

This national, cross-sectional population study used a random sample of 3000 adults (aged ≥ 18 years) from the Scottish Electoral register. Postal questionnaires collected data on risk perceptions, information disclosure and demographic information. Exploratory factor analysis was used to determine constructs to which the risk questions could be grouped. Factors were scored and the scores compared across demographics.

Key findings

Just over half (57%) of the 927 respondents perceived NPMs to be associated with low general risk. For 19 of the 23 statements (83%), respondents indicated general agreement, that is low-risk perception of NPMs. Individuals with higher risk perception of NPMs were less likely to disclose information during consultations compared with respondents with lower risk perception.

Conclusion

There is general low public risk perception of NPMs. Individuals with higher risk perception are less likely to disclose information. Interventions that raise risk perception are unlikely to enhance the safe and effective supply of NPMs.
Impact of individual perception of organizational culture on the learning transfer environment
Authors: Chatterjee Aindrila , Pereira Arun , Bates Reid
Published: January 2018

This research is an empirical study of the relationship between organization culture, as perceived by employees, and the work‐environment‐related learning transfer factors in organizations, which we call learning transfer environment (LTE). To measure perceptions of organization culture, we use the Organizational Culture Assessment Instrument and categorize organizations as clan, adhocracy, market or hierarchy. To measure LTE, we use a subset of the Learning Transfer System Inventory items, including items such as feedback and coaching received, supervisor and peer support, supervisor reprimand, resistance or openness to change and personal outcomes (positive/negative). Our results reveal that many of the LTE factors are systemically related to perceptions of organization culture type. Some organization culture types support certain learning transfer factors more than others. Specifically, flexible organizations (defined as predominantly clan and/or adhocracy cultures) have a more supportive LTE than stable organizations (defined as predominantly market and/or hierarchy cultures)
Differential signaling pathways are initiated in macrophages during infection depending on the intracellular fate of Chlamydia spp.
Authors: Nagarajan Uma M , Tripathy Manoj , Kollipara Avinash , Allen John , Goodwin Anna , Whittimore Judy , Wyrick Priscilla B , Rank Roger G
Published: January 2018

Chlamydia muridarum and Chlamydia caviae have equivalent growth rates in mouse epithelial cells but only C. muridarum replicates inside mouse macrophages, while C. caviae does not. Macrophages infected with C. muridarum or C. caviae were used to address the hypothesis that the early signaling pathways initiated during infection depend on the fate of chlamydiae in the host cell. Transmission electron microscopy of C. muridarum‐infected macrophages showed intact chlamydial elementary bodies and reticulate bodies 2 h postinfection in compact vacuoles. Conversely, in macrophages infected with C. caviae, chlamydiae were observed in large phagocytic vacuoles. Furthermore, C. caviae infections failed to develop into inclusions or produce viable bacteria. Expression of proinflammatory cytokines TNFα, IL‐1β and MMP13 was similar in C. caviae‐ or C. muridarum‐infected macrophages at 3 h postinfection, indicating that chlamydial survival is not required for initiation of these responses. IL‐1β secretion, dependent on inflammasome activation, occurred in C. caviae‐infected macrophages despite no chlamydial growth. Conversely, IFNβ mRNA was observed only in C. muridarum‐ but not in C. caviae‐infected macrophages. These data demonstrate that differential signaling events are initiated during a productive versus nonproductive chlamydial infection in a macrophage.
Diabetic ketoacidosis in adult patients: an audit of factors influencing time to normalisation of metabolic parameters
Authors: Lee Melissa H. , Calder Genevieve L. , Santamaria John D. , MacIsaac Richard J.
Published: January 2018

Background

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is an acute life‐threatening metabolic complication of diabetes that imposes substantial burden on our healthcare system. There is a paucity of published data in Australia assessing factors influencing time to resolution of DKA and length of stay (LOS).

Aims

To identify factors that predict a slower time to resolution of DKA in adults with diabetes.

Methods

Retrospective audit of patients admitted to St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne between 2010 to 2014 coded with a diagnosis of ‘Diabetic Ketoacidosis’. The primary outcome was time to resolution of DKA based on normalisation of biochemical markers. Episodes of DKA within the wider Victorian hospital network were also explored.

Results

Seventy‐one patients met biochemical criteria for DKA; median age 31 years (26–45 years), 59% were male and 23% had newly diagnosed diabetes. Insulin omission was the most common precipitant (42%). Median time to resolution of DKA was 11 h (6.5–16.5 h). Individual factors associated with slower resolution of DKA were lower admission pH (P < 0.001) and higher admission serum potassium level (P = 0.03). Median LOS was 3 days (2–5 days), compared to a Victorian state‐wide LOS of 2 days. Higher comorbidity scores were associated with longer LOS (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Lower admission pH levels and higher admission serum potassium levels are independent predictors of slower time to resolution of DKA. This may assist to stratify patients with DKA using markers of severity to determine who may benefit from closer monitoring and to predict LOS.
Acute stimulation generates Tim‐3‐expressing T helper type 1 CD4 T cells that persist in vivo and show enhanced effector function
Authors: Gorman Jacob V. , Colgan John D.
Published: January 2018

T‐cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 3 (Tim‐3) is a surface receptor expressed by T helper type 1 (Th1) effector CD4 T cells, which are critical for defence against intracellular pathogens and have been implicated in autoimmune disease. Previous studies showed that Tim‐3 expression makes Th1 cells more susceptible to apoptosis and also marks functionally impaired T cells that arise due to chronic stimulation. However, other studies suggested that Tim‐3‐expressing Th1 cells do not always have these properties. To further define the relationship between Tim‐3 and Th1 cell function, we analysed the characteristics of Th1 cells that expressed Tim‐3 in response to brief stimulation in vitro or an acute viral infection in vivo. As expected, cultured CD4 T cells began expressing Tim‐3 during Th1 differentiation and secondary stimulation generated Tim‐3− and Tim‐3+ fractions that were separated and further analysed. When injected into naive mice, Tim‐3+ cells down‐regulated Tim‐3 and survived equally well compared with Tim‐3‐ cells. Further, Tim‐3− and Tim‐3+ Th1 cells had similar functional responses when transferred into naive mice that were subsequently infected with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV). Cultured Th1 cells that expressed Tim‐3 following T‐cell receptor stimulation had a greater capacity to express signature Th1 cytokines than their Tim‐3− counterparts and showed differential expression of genes that regulate CD4 T‐cell function. Consistent with these findings, Tim‐3+ Th1 cells generated in response to LCMV infection displayed augmented effector function relative to Tim‐3− cells. These results suggest that Tim‐3 expression by Th1 cells responding to acute stimulation can mark cells that are functionally competent and have an augmented ability to produce cytokines.
Understanding patients and spouses experiences of patient education following a cardiac event and eliciting attitudes and preferences towards incorporating cardiopulmonary resuscitation training: A qualitative study
Authors: Cartledge Susie , Feldman Susan , Bray Janet E. , Stub Dion , Finn Judith
Published: January 2018

Aim

The aim of this study was to gain a comprehensive perspective about the experience of patient and spousal education following an acute cardiac event. The second objective was to elicit an understanding of patient and spousal attitudes, preferences and intentions towards future cardiopulmonary resuscitation training.

Background

Patients with cardiovascular disease require comprehensive patient and family education to ensure adequate long‐term disease management. As cardiac patients are at risk of future cardiac events, including out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest, providing cardiopulmonary resuscitation training to patients and family members has long been advocated.

Design

We conducted a qualitative study underpinned by phenomenology and the Theory of Planned Behaviour.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with cardiac patients and their spouses (N = 12 patient‐spouse pairs) between March 2015–April 2016 purposively sampled from a cardiology ward. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematic analysis undertaken.

Findings

Nine male and three female patients and their spouses were recruited. Ages ranged from 47‐75 years. Four strongly interrelated themes emerged: the emotional response to the event, information, control and responsibility. There was evidence of positive attitudes and intentions from the TPB towards undertaking cardiopulmonary resuscitation training in the future. Only the eldest patient spouse pair were not interested in undertaking training.

Conclusions

Findings suggest cardiac patients and spouses have unmet education needs following an acute cardiac event. Information increased control and decreased negative emotions associated with diagnosis. Participants’ preferences were for inclusion of cardiopulmonary resuscitation training in cardiac rehabilitation programs.
Body condition and feather molt of a migratory shorebird during the non‐breeding season
Authors: Alfaro Matilde , Sandercock Brett K. , Liguori Luciano , Arim Matias
Published: January 2018

Migratory shorebirds have some of the highest fat loads among birds, especially species which migrate long distances. The upland sandpiper Bartramia longicauda makes long‐distance migrations twice a year, but variation in body condition or timing of feather molt during the non‐breeding season has not been studied. Molt is an important part of the annual cycle of migratory birds because feather condition determines flight performance during migration, and long‐distance movements are energetically costly. However, variation in body condition during molt has been poorly studied. The objective of our field study was to examine the timing and patterns of feather molt of a long distance migratory shorebird during the non‐breeding season and test for relationships with body size, fat depots, mass, and sex. Field work was conducted at four ranches in the Northern Campos of Uruguay (Paysandú and Salto Departments). We captured and marked 62 sandpipers in a 2‐month period (Nov–Jan) during four non‐breeding seasons (2008–2012). Sex was determined by genetic analyses of blood samples taken at capture. Molt was measured in captured birds using rank scores based on published standards. Body mass and tarsus length measurements showed female‐biased sexual size dimorphism with males smaller than females. Size‐corrected body mass (body condition) showed a U‐shaped relationship with the day of the season, indicating that birds arrived at non‐breeding grounds in relatively good condition. Arriving in good body condition at non‐breeding grounds is probably important because of the energetic demands due to physiological adjustments after migration and the costs of feather molt.
The island rule: An assessment of biases and research trends
Authors: Lokatis Sophie , Jeschke Jonathan M.
Published: January 2018

Aim

The island rule has been widely applied to a range of taxonomic groups, with some studies reporting supporting evidence but others questioning this hypothesis. To bring more clarity to this debate, we conducted a comparative analysis of the available literature, focussing on potential biases.

Location

Worldwide.

Methods

We performed a systematic review to identify studies testing the island rule and translated these studies’ outcomes, so that they follow a consistent approach. The studies were assessed for differences in their analysis of the island rule. We created an authorship network showing who published studies with whom on the topic and weighted the data based on co‐authorship and number of publications.

Results

We identified 143 relevant studies, finding a significantly lower frequency of supporting studies according to our consistent approach (50%) than the authors’ own statements (59%). Two core‐author groups could be identified with a strong publication record on the island rule. The first group has predominately published studies supporting the rule, whereas the other group has mainly published studies questioning it. According to a subsequent analysis excluding studies with a high risk of HARKing (hypothesizing after the results are known), the frequency of studies supporting the rule further dropped to 42%.

Main conclusions

Empirical support for the island rule is low, especially for non‐mammalian taxa and when using a consistent evaluation approach. Differences among studies in supporting versus questioning this hypothesis seem to be partly due to author‐related biases. Methods to address potential biases in studying ecological hypotheses are urgently needed. We offer such a method here.
Do functional groups of planktonic copepods differ in their ecological niches?
Authors: Benedetti Fabio , Vogt Meike , Righetti Damiano , Guilhaumon François , Ayata Sakina‐Dorothée
Published: January 2018

Aim

To assess the degree of overlap between the environmental niches of marine planktonic copepods and test if the distribution of copepod functional groups differs across environmental gradients.

Location

The Mediterranean Sea.

Methods

Functional groups were defined based on clustering of functional traits in 106 marine copepod species using a multivariate ordination analysis. Functional traits included maximum body length, feeding mode, spawning strategy and trophic group. Simultaneously, the global distribution of the species was used to model their environmental niches with six environmental variables. For each of these predictors, four niche parameters were derived from the univariate response curve of each species to summarise their environmental preferences and ordinate the species in niche space through a PCA. Finally, the differences in the position in niche space of functional groups were tested with variance analysis.

Results

We identified seven copepod functional groups with different distributions along the environmental gradients covered by our study. While carnivorous functional groups were affiliated with oligotrophic and tropical conditions, large and small current‐feeding herbivores are associated with colder, more seasonally varying and productive conditions. Small cruising detritivores and other small current‐feeding herbivores were not affiliated with specific conditions as their constituting species were scattered in niche space.

Main conclusions

Since copepod functional groups occupy distinct ecological niches, ecosystem processes related to these groups are expected to vary across environmental gradients. Conditions favouring large current‐feeding herbivores should allow for enhanced fluxes of energy and nutrients through Mediterranean Sea ecosystems, while such fluxes should be weakened where large carnivores and small passive ambush‐feeding copepods dominate. Our study supports the development of trait‐based zooplankton functional groups in marine ecosystem models.
Postmortem ICD interrogation in mode of death classification
Authors: Nikolaidou Theodora , Johnson Miriam J. , Ghosh Justin M. , Marincowitz Carl , Shah Saumil , Lammiman Michael J. , Schilling Richard J. , Clark Andrew L.
Published: January 2018

Background

The definition of sudden death due to arrhythmia relies on the time interval between onset of symptoms and death. However, not all sudden deaths are due to arrhythmia. In patients with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), postmortem device interrogation may help better distinguish the mode of death compared to a time‐based definition alone.

Objective

This study aims to assess the proportion of “sudden” cardiac deaths in patients with an ICD that have confirmed arrhythmia.

Methods

We conducted a literature search for studies using postmortem ICD interrogation and a time‐based classification of the mode of death. A modified QUADAS‐2 checklist was used to assess risk of bias in individual studies. Outcome data were pooled where sufficient data were available.

Results

Our search identified 22 studies undertaken between 1982 and 2015 with 23,600 participants. The pooled results (excluding studies with high risk of bias) suggest that ventricular arrhythmias are present at the time of death in 76% of “sudden” deaths (95% confidence interval [CI] 67–85; range 42–88).

Conclusion

Postmortem ICD interrogation identifies 24% of “sudden” deaths to be nonarrhythmic. Postmortem device interrogation should be considered in all cases of unexplained sudden cardiac death.
Lipid profile and cytokines in hypertension of pregnancy: A comparison of preeclampsia therapies
Authors: Wang Yong , Shi Dandan , Chen Ling
Published: January 2018

Hypertensive disorders complicating pregnancy can be classified as gestational hypertension, mild preeclampsia, and severe preeclampsia. It is necessary to evaluate and predict the grade in advance. The first study comprised 40 healthy pregnancies, 40 gestational hypertension, 40 mild preeclampsia, and 40 severe preeclampsia cases. The participants’ lipid profile and cytokine levels were statistically compared. The efficacy and safety of oral nifedipine (n = 71) and intravenous labetalol (n = 72) for the treatment of severe preeclampsia were evaluated in the next study according to maternal and neonatal outcomes. The levels of lipid profile and cytokines were linked with the presence and severity of hypertensive disorders complicating pregnancy. Both oral nifedipine and intravenous labetalol are effective for safely reducing blood pressure to target levels in patients with severe preeclampsia. Our study suggests that lipid profile and cytokines can be used in the evaluation of the severity of hypertensive disorders complicating pregnancy, and oral nifedipine requires more study.
Prehypertension is a comorbid state with autonomic and metabolic dysfunction
Authors: Jung Mi‐Hyang , Ihm Sang‐Hyun , Lee Dong‐Hyeon , Choi Young , Chung Woo‐Baek , Jung Hae Ok , Hong Kyung‐Soon , Youn Ho‐Joong
Published: January 2018

We aimed to elucidate the role of autonomic dysfunction in the context of complex metabolic and cardiovascular changes in subjects with prehypertension. We identified 556 asymptomatic subjects without hypertension who underwent comprehensive cardiovascular exams. We obtained heart rate recovery (HRR) after peak exercise to quantitatively measure autonomic dysfunction. Of the 556 participants, 279 individuals had prehypertension and the remaining 277 had optimal BP. HRR was significantly lower in the prehypertension group (36.0 ± 14.5 bpm) than in the optimal BP group (39.3 ± 14.7 bpm, P = .009). The prehypertension group more frequently demonstrated features of metabolic disturbances and subclinical target organ damage. Among the various baseline cardiovascular and metabolic factors assessed, resting systolic BP and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol level were independent determinants of HRR (both P < .05). Autonomic dysfunction coexists with prehypertension and is closely linked to changes in systolic BP and lipid metabolism.
Transdiagnostic pathways from early social stress to psychopathology: a 20‐year prospective study
Authors: Conway Christopher C. , Raposa Elizabeth B. , Hammen Constance , Brennan Patricia A.
Published: January 2018

Background

Adverse family environments confer susceptibility to virtually all psychiatric problems. This study evaluated two possible models to explain this diversity of associations. Stressful family circumstances during childhood could either activate general, transdiagnostic liabilities to mental disorder or promote numerous disorder‐specific liabilities.

Methods

We recruited a high‐risk sample of 815 mother‐offspring pairs and assessed social stressors in the family context prospectively from the perinatal period through offspring age 5. We factor analyzed offspring mental disorder diagnoses at age 20 to parse transdiagnostic and disorder‐specific dimensions of psychopathology.

Results

Structural analyses revealed nearly equivalent prospective effects of early family stress on overarching Internalizing (β = .30) and Externalizing (β = .29) dimensions. In contrast, there was no evidence of disorder‐specific effects.

Conclusions

Social stressors early in life activate transdiagnostic, and not disorder‐specific, liabilities to psychopathology. A focus on higher‐order dimensions of psychopathology could accelerate etiological research and intervention efforts for stress‐linked mental disorders.
Navigating on a chemical radar: Usage of root exudates by foragingDiabrotica virgifera virgiferalarvae
Authors: Schumann M. , Ladin Z. S. , Beatens J. M. , Hiltpold I.
Published: January 2018

In the darkness of the soil matrix, the larva of the western corn rootworm (WCR)Diabrotica virgifera virgiferaLeConte relies on chemical cues to locate and accept its host plant roots. For almost 40 years, entomologists and chemical ecologists have tackled the challenge of isolating and identifying active chemical compounds emitted by host plant roots (most of the research has been conducted on maizeZea maysL.) and used by the foraging insect pest larvae. A number of molecules of interest have been documented but have so far only been implemented with little success in the current arms race to manageWCR(and soil‐dwelling pests). An in‐depth understanding of the mechanisms underlying the insect foraging behaviour is certainly critical to the development of highly effective and sustainable pest control strategies. This contribution reviews the progress and highlights the gaps in our current knowledge on the chemical ecology ofWCRlarvae. An individual‐based model of the larval behaviour in response to root volatiles has been developed based on data from the literature. It also proposes avenues (tested or theoretical) to eventually implement this knowledge in integrated pest management of this major maize pest, a critical approach asWCRhas evolved resistance to several control strategies.
Lethal and sublethal effects ofEmbelia ribesand two commercial pesticides on a generalist predator
Authors: Košulič O. , Vichitbandha P. , Pung T. , Michalko R.
Published: January 2018

Even as new substances show promise as biopesticides for controlling pests due to their natural properties and high effectiveness in inhibiting pests, their side effects on non‐target organisms must nevertheless be evaluated before they can be included into integrated pest management systems. In this study, a crude extract from dried leaves ofEmbelia ribeswas evaluated together with two commercial pesticides: azadirachtin (a natural product) and amitraz (a synthetic acaricide). We examined both lethal and sublethal effects on the predatory potential of the lynx spiderOxyopes lineatipes, which is among the most dominant predator in tropical agricultural agroecosystems. We found that the spider's mortality increased with rising concentration of both commercial products, azadirachtin and amitraz, but not with rising concentration of the extracts fromE. ribes. The greatest mortality occurred when amitraz was used. That material caused almost 100% spider mortality in the doses recommended for field spraying. Azadirachtin significantly reduced the rate at whichO. lineatipescaptured prey, while there was no significant difference in capture rates among spiders exposed to a control treatment and theE. ribestreatment. Considering its absence of unfavourable impacts onO. lineatipesin terms of mortality and predatory activity, the plant extract fromE. ribesshows promise as a new biopesticide material. In contrast, azadirachtin, which has been considered as safe for non‐target organisms, exhibited slight lethal effect only in higher concentrations and strong sublethal effect by reducing spiders’ predation rate.
Redescription of Tintinnopsis everta Kofoid and Campbell 1929 (Alveolata, Ciliophora, Tintinnina) Based on Taxonomic and Genetic Analyses—Discovery of a New Complex Ciliary Pattern
Authors: Gruber Michael S. , Strüder‐Kypke Michaela , Agatha Sabine
Published: January 2018

The about 1,000 species of tintinnid ciliates are identified and classified almost exclusively based on their lorica features, although the shortcomings of this structure are well‐known, e.g. causing uncertain species limitations and nonmonophyletic taxa. Hence, the present redescription of Tintinnopsis everta Kofoid and Campbell, 1929 considers not only the lorica characteristics, but focuses on cell and genetic features. The species is redescribed from the North Atlantic and adjacent sea areas, namely the east coast of the USA, using live observation, protargol‐stained material, scanning electron microscopy, and genetic analyses. The main stages of cell division are described, and the species’ phylogenetic relationships are inferred from morphological data and the small subunit ribosomal RNA gene sequence. The estimates of its biogeographical distribution and autecology are based on a literature survey. The species is characterised by a complex somatic ciliary pattern with a unique position of the posterior kinety and a conspicuously large distance between the somatic ciliary fields and the collar membranelles. The phylogenetic relationships of Tintinnopsis everta vary in the molecular trees depending on the algorithms used and are, therefore, regarded as unresolved. Nevertheless, the new kind of complex somatic ciliary pattern distinctly contributes to a better understanding of the tintinnid biodiversity and evolution and provides features for a future split of the nonmonophyletic genus Tintinnopsis.
Cell Cycle Dynamics of Cultured Coral Endosymbiotic Microalgae (Symbiodinium) Across Different Types (Species) Under Alternate Light and Temperature Conditions
Authors: Fujise Lisa , Nitschke Matthew R. , Frommlet Jörg C. , Serôdio João , Woodcock Stephen , Ralph Peter J. , Suggett David J.
Published: January 2018

Dinoflagellates of the genus Symbiodinium live in symbiosis with many invertebrates, including reef‐building corals. Hosts maintain this symbiosis through continuous regulation of Symbiodinium cell density via expulsion and degradation (postmitotic) and/or constraining cell growth and division through manipulation of the symbiont cell cycle (premitotic). Importance of premitotic regulation is unknown since little data exists on cell cycles for the immense genetic diversity of Symbiodinium. We therefore examined cell cycle progression for several distinct SymbiodiniumITS2‐types (B1, C1, D1a). All types exhibited typical microalgal cell cycle progression, G1 phase through to S phase during the light period, and S phase to G2/M phase during the dark period. However, the proportion of cells in these phases differed between strains and reflected differences in growth rates. Undivided larger cells with 3n DNA content were observed especially in type D1a, which exhibited a distinct cell cycle pattern. We further compared cell cycle patterns under different growth light intensities and thermal regimes. Whilst light intensity did not affect cell cycle patterns, heat stress inhibited cell cycle progression and arrested all strains in G1 phase. We discuss the importance of understanding Symbiodinium functional diversity and how our findings apply to clarify stability of host‐Symbiodinium symbioses.
Confusion Strongly Associated with Antibiotic Prescribing Due to Suspected Urinary Tract Infections in Nursing Homes
Authors: Mayne Sean , Sundvall Pär‐Daniel , Gunnarsson Ronny
Published: January 2018

Objectives

To quantify the prevalence of documented urinary tract infection (UTI), nonspecific symptoms, and antibiotic treatment of suspected UTI in nursing homes (NHs) in the tropics and to describe the typical resident likely to receive antibiotic treatment for suspected UTI and factors associated with the development of confusion, fatigue, and restlessness.

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Setting

Five far north Queensland NHs in tropical Australia.

Participants

NH residents (N = 450).

Measurements

Chart reviews of NH residents between August 28, 2015, and June 21, 2016, to determine the prevalence of documented UTI, new or worsening nonspecific and specific symptoms that are specific or nonspecific to the urinary tract, antibiotic use, medical conditions, and medication factors.

Results

UTI accounted for 33% of all current infections treated with antibiotics and 40% of all infections treated with antibiotics within the last 30 days. One in 5 NH residents had received antibiotics within the last 30 days, of which 45% were for UTI. The most significant factors independently associated with antibiotics for UTI were urinary catheter (OR = 13, 95% CI = 2.4–67, P = .003), urinary frequency (OR = 10, 95% CI = 2.2–47, P = .003), fever (OR = 10, 95% CI = 1.3–85, P = .028), new‐onset hypotension (OR = 10, 95% CI = 1.4–73, P = .024), and confusion (OR = 8.9, 95% CI = 3.1–26, P < .001). Of these, confusion was the most prevalent factor in the population.

Conclusion

UTI is commonly documented in NH residents, with new or worsening confusion being one of the strongest factors associated with antibiotic treatment for suspected UTI.
Geriatric Emergency Department Innovations: Transitional Care Nurses and Hospital Use
Authors: Hwang Ula , Dresden Scott M. , Rosenberg Mark S. , Garrido Melissa M. , Loo George , Sze Jeremy , Gravenor Stephanie , Courtney D. Mark , Kang Raymond , Zhu Carolyn W. , Vargas‐Torres Carmen , Grudzen Corita R. , Richardson Lynne D. ,   The GEDI WISE Investigators
Published: January 2018

Objectives

To examine the effect of an emergency department (ED)‐based transitional care nurse (TCN) on hospital use.

Design

Prospective observational cohort.

Setting

Three U.S. (NY, IL, NJ) EDs from January 1, 2013, to June 30, 2015.

Participants

Individuals aged 65 and older in the ED (N = 57,287).

Intervention

The intervention was first TCN contact. Controls never saw a TCN during the study period.

Measurements

We examined sociodemographic and clinical characteristics associated with TCN use and outcomes. The primary outcome was inpatient admission during the index ED visit (admission on Day 0). Secondary outcomes included cumulative 30‐day admission (any admission on Days 0–30) and 72‐hour ED revisits.

Results

A TCN saw 5,930 (10%) individuals, 42% of whom were admitted. After accounting for observed selection bias using entropy balance, results showed that when compared to controls, TCN contact was associated with lower risk of admission (site 1: −9.9% risk of inpatient admission, 95% confidence interval (CI) = −12.3% to −7.5%; site 2: −16.5%, 95% CI = −18.7% to −14.2%; site 3: −4.7%, 95% CI = −7.5% to −2.0%). Participants with TCN contact had greater risk of a 72‐hour ED revisit at two sites (site 1: 1.5%, 95% CI = 0.7–2.3%; site 2: 1.4%, 95% CI = 0.7–2.1%). Risk of any admission within 30 days of the index ED visit also remained lower for TCN patients at both these sites (site 1: −7.8%, 95% CI = −10.3% to −5.3%; site 2: −13.8%, 95% CI = −16.1% to −11.6%).

Conclusion

Targeted evaluation by geriatric ED transitions of care staff may be an effective delivery innovation to reduce risk of inpatient admission.
Competing Risks of Fracture and Death in Older Adults with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Hall Rasheeda K. , Sloane Richard , Pieper Carl , Van Houtven Courtney , LaFleur Joanne , Adler Robert , Colón‐Emeric Cathleen
Published: January 2018

Objectives

To examine whether chronic kidney disease (CKD) at any stage is associated with fracture risk after adjusting for competing mortality and to determine whether age or race modify the relationship between CKD and fracture risk.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) national healthcare system.

Participants

Men receiving VA primary care aged 65 and older with no history of fracture or osteoporosis therapy (N = 712, 918).

Measurements

We determined CKD stage from baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Participants were followed for up to 10 years for occurrence of any fracture or death. We ascertained fractures and covariates from VA medical records and Medicare claims.

Results

Of the 356,459 older veterans with CKD (defined as eGFR <60 mL/min per 1.73 m2), 15.7% (n = 56,032) experienced a fracture, and 43.0% (n = 153,438) died over a median time at risk of 5.2 years. Veterans with CKD Stages 3 to 5 had a greater risk of death than those without CKD, which biased estimates from traditional survival models. Competing risk models showed that Stage 3 CKD was associated with greater hazard (adjusted subdistribution hazard ratio (sdHR) = 1.07, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.02–1.11) of fracture (than those without CKD) and a trend toward greater hazard for Stage 4 (sdHR = 1.07, 95% CI = 0.94–1.22) and Stage 5 (sdHR = 1.31, 95% CI = 0.97–1.77) CKD. Age, race, and bone mineral density did not modify the relationship between CKD and fracture risk.

Conclusions

In older male veterans, CKD, including Stage 3, is associated with a moderately greater fracture risk irrespective of age, race, or bone mineral density.
ZmCOL3, a CCT gene represses flowering in maize by interfering with the circadian clock and activating expression of ZmCCT
Authors: Jin Minliang , Liu Xiangguo , Jia Wei , Liu Haijun , Li Wenqiang , Peng Yong , Du Yanfang , Wang Yuebin , Yin Yuejia , Zhang Xuehai , Liu Qing , Deng Min , Li Nan , Cui Xiyan , Hao Dongyun , Yan Jianbing
Published: January 2018

Flowering time is a trait vital to the adaptation of flowering plants to different environments. Here, we report that CCT domain genes play an important role in flowering in maize (Zea mays L.). Among the 53 CCT family genes we identified in maize, 28 were located in flowering time quantitative trait locus regions and 15 were significantly associated with flowering time, based on candidate‐gene association mapping analysis. Furthermore, a CCT gene named ZmCOL3 was shown to be a repressor of flowering. Overexpressing ZmCOL3 delayed flowering time by approximately 4 d, in either long‐day or short‐day conditions. The absence of one cytosine in the ZmCOL3 3'UTR and the presence of a 551 bp fragment in the promoter region are likely the causal polymorphisms contributing to the maize adaptation from tropical to temperate regions. We propose a modified model of the maize photoperiod pathway, wherein ZmCOL3 acts as an inhibitor of flowering either by transactivating transcription of ZmCCT, one of the key genes regulating maize flowering, or by interfering with the circadian clock.