bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decreased plant productivity resulting from plant group removal experiment constrains soil microbial functional diversity
Authors: Zhang Ximei , Johnston Eric R. , Barberán Albert , Ren Yi , Lü Xiaotao , Han Xingguo
Published: June 2017

Anthropogenic environmental changes are accelerating the rate of biodiversity loss on Earth. Plant diversity loss is predicted to reduce soil microbial diversity primarily due to the decreased variety of carbon/energy resources. However, this intuitive hypothesis is supported by sparse empirical evidence, and most underlying mechanisms remain underexplored or obscure altogether. We constructed four diversity gradients (0–3) in a five‐year plant functional group removal experiment in a steppe ecosystem in Inner Mongolia, China, and quantified microbial taxonomic and functional diversity with shotgun metagenome sequencing. The treatments had little effect on microbial taxonomic diversity, but were found to decrease functional gene diversity. However, the observed decrease in functional gene diversity was more attributable to a loss in plant productivity, rather than to the loss of any individual plant functional group per se. Reduced productivity limited fresh plant resources supplied to microorganisms, and thus, intensified the pressure of ecological filtering, favoring genes responsible for energy production/conversion, material transport/metabolism and amino acid recycling, and accordingly disfavored many genes with other functions. Furthermore, microbial respiration was correlated with the variation in functional composition but not taxonomic composition. Overall, the amount of carbon/energy resources driving microbial gene diversity was identified to be the critical linkage between above‐ and belowground communities, contrary to the traditional framework of linking plant clade/taxonomic diversity to microbial taxonomic diversity.
Legacy effects of individual crops affect N2O emissions accounting within crop rotations
Authors: Adler Paul R. , Spatari Sabrina , D'Ottone Federico , Vazquez Daniel , Peterson Lisa , Del Grosso Stephen J. , Baethgen Walter E. , Parton William J.
Published: June 2017

Uruguay is pursuing renewable energy production pathways using feedstocks from its agricultural sector to supply transportation fuels, among them ethanol produced from commercial technologies that use sweet and grain sorghum. However, the environmental performance of the fuel is not known. We investigate the life cycle environmental and cost performance of these two major agricultural crops used to produce ethanol that have begun commercial production and are poised to grow to meet national energy targets for replacing gasoline. Using both attributional and consequential life cycle assessment (LCA) frameworks for system boundaries to quantify the carbon intensity, and engineering cost analysis to estimate the unit production cost of ethanol from grain and sweet sorghum, we determined abatement costs. We found 1) an accounting error in estimating N2O emissions for a specific crop in multiple crop rotations when using Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change(IPCC) Tier 1 methods within an attributional LCA framework, due to N legacy effects; 2) choice of baseline and crop identity in multiple crop rotations evaluated within the consequential LCA framework both affect the global warming intensity (GWI) of ethanol; and 3) although abatement costs for ethanol from grain sorghum are positive and from sweet sorghum they are negative, both grain and sweet sorghum pathways have a high potential for reducing transport fuel GWI by more than 50% relative to gasoline, and are within the ranges targeted by the US renewable transportation fuel policies.
Frequency of, and factors associated with, hepatitis B virus reactivation in hepatitis C patients treated with all‐oral direct‐acting antivirals: Analysis of a Japanese prospective cohort
Authors: Doi Akira , Sakamori Ryotaro , Tahata Yuki , Urabe Ayako , Morishita Naoki , Yamada Ryoko , Furuta Kunimaro , Kodama Takahiro , Hikita Hayato , Yakushijin Takayuki , Ohkawa Kazuyoshi , Kaneko Akira , Imai Yasuharu , Tatsumi Tomohide , Takehara Tetsuo
Published: June 2017

Aim

Several case reports have shown that hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation developed in hepatitis C patients with a current or previous HBV infection during direct‐acting antiviral (DAA) treatment, which led to severe hepatitis or death in some cases. However, its precise frequency and risk factors are not entirely clear. We analyzed a prospective cohort.

Methods

We analyzed HBV reactivation in 461 consecutive hepatitis C patients who received 12 weeks of ledipasvir/sofosbuvir for genotype 1 or sofosbuvir plus ribavirin for genotype 2 at multiple centers.

Results

By the examination of the preserved sera at baseline, 159 patients (34%) were identified as seropositive for HBV core antibody (anti‐HBc) and were included in the subsequent analysis; 4 patients were positive for HBV surface antigen (HBsAg), and the others were negative. Serum HBV DNA was undetectable or was detectable but <20 IU/mL at baseline for all patients. Serial measurement of HBV DNA at 4 weeks and 12 weeks in the preserved serum samples was available in 147 patients and identified HBV reactivation (defined as the appearance of serum HBV DNA ≥20 IU/mL) in 2 HBsAg‐positive and 3 HBsAg‐negative patients. No patient developed HBV‐associated hepatitis. Patients who developed HBV reactivation had significantly lower anti‐HBs titers and higher serum alanine transferase levels before treatment.

Conclusion

Hepatitis B virus reactivation during direct‐acting antiviral therapies occurs in 3.4% (5/147) of patients who are positive for anti‐HBc. A low titer of anti‐HBs and a high serum alanine transferase level prior to treatment are associated with reactivation in this patient group.
Junior doctors’ attitudes to opioids for refractory breathlessness in patients with advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Smallwood Natasha , Gaffney Nicole , Gorelik Alexandra , Irving Louis , Le Brian , Philip Jennifer
Published: June 2017

Background

Refractory breathlessness is a common, distressing symptom in patients with advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The judicious, off‐licence prescription of opioids, together with other management strategies, can improve breathlessness, however, internationally there is profound reluctance to prescribe opioids for breathlessness in COPD.

Aims

To understand Australian junior doctors’ knowledge and attitudes regarding the management of refractory breathlessness and the role of opioids in COPD.

Methods

All junior doctors undertaking basic training in internal medicine in Victoria were invited to complete an online survey. Knowledge, willingness, and experience prescribing opioids to COPD patients with refractory breathlessness, were examined.

Results

Of the 243 responses received, most trainees (193, 86.5%) believed opioids have a role in treating refractory breathlessness in stable COPD outpatients, with 143 (64.1%) recommending morphine as first‐line treatment for refractory breathlessness. One quarter (55, 24.7%) reported having themselves initiated an opioid and 102 (45.7%) had prescribed an opioid under senior supervision for management of breathlessness in COPD. Concern regarding adverse opioid effects was low, with 58 (26.0%) having no concerns prescribing an opioid to COPD patients.

Conclusion

This is the first study of doctors to demonstrate high awareness, confidence, willingness and experience in prescribing opioids for the off‐licence indication of refractory breathlessness in COPD. These findings differ significantly from attitudes reported overseas and are unexpected given the doctors surveyed were recently qualified. The low awareness of possible adverse events and limited insight regarding knowledge gaps is concerning and highlights the significant need for greater education in palliative care.
Registered Nurses’ and nurse assistants’ responses to older persons’ expressions of emotional needs in home care
Authors: Höglander Jessica , Eklund Jakob Håkansson , Eide Hilde , Holmström Inger K , Sundler Annelie J
Published: June 2017

Aim

This study aims to explore nurse assistants’ and Registered Nurses’ responses to older persons’ expressions of emotional needs during home care visits.

Background

Communication is a central aspect of care. Older persons might express different emotions and needs during home care visits and such expressions can be challenging to respond to. Little is known about communication in home care or nursing staff responses to older persons’ expressed emotional needs.

Design

Descriptive, cross‐sectional design on nursing staff responses to older persons’ negative emotions in home care.

Methods

Collected data consisted of audio recordings of home care visits between older persons and nursing staff. Data were collected between August 2014–November 2015. The nursing staff responses to older persons’ negative emotions in the communication were analysed with the Verona Coding Definitions of Emotional Sequences (VR‐CoDES).

Results

The nursing staff most often give non‐explicit responses, providing space for further disclosure of older persons’ expressed negative emotions. Such responses were more frequent if the nursing staff had elicited the older persons’ expressions of a negative emotion than if such expressions were elicited by the older persons themselves. Most frequent types of responses were backchannel, active invitation or information advice.

Conclusion

The nursing staff responses were mainly non‐explicit responses providing space for older persons to tell more about their experiences. Such responses can be discussed in terms of person‐centred communication and is important for the comfort of emotional concerns.
The association between the physical environment and the well‐being of older people in residential care facilities: A multilevel analysis
Authors: Nordin Susanna , McKee Kevin , Wijk Helle , Elf Marie
Published: June 2017

Aims

To investigate the associations between the quality of the physical environment and the psychological and social well‐being of older people living in residential care facilities.

Background

Many older people in care facilities have cognitive and physical frailties and are at risk of experiencing low levels of well‐being. High‐quality physical environments can support older people as frailty increases and promote their well‐being. Although the importance of the physical environment for residents’ well‐being is recognized, more research is needed.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey of 20 care facilities from each of which 10 residents were sampled. As the individual resident data were nested in the facilities, a multilevel analysis was conducted.

Methods

Data were collected during 2013 and 2014. The care facilities were purposely sampled to ensure a high level of variation in their physical characteristics. Residents’ demographic and health data were collected via medical records and interviews. Residents’ well‐being and perceived quality of care were assessed via questionnaires and interviews. Environmental quality was assessed with a structured observational instrument.

Results

Multilevel analysis indicated that cognitive support in the physical environment was associated with residents’ social well‐being, after controlling for independence and perceived care quality. However, no significant association was found between the physical environment and residents’ psychological well‐being.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates the role of the physical environment for enhancing the social well‐being of frail older people. Professionals and practitioners involved in the design of care facilities have a responsibility to ensure that such facilities meet high‐quality specifications.
“They just said inappropriate contact.” What do service users hear when staff talk about sex and relationships?
Authors: Grace Nici , Greenhill Beth , Withers Paul
Published: June 2017

Background

Research into how people with intellectual disabilities (ID) pursue intimate relationships in care settings presents some contradictory findings; despite increasingly liberal staff views, service users experience significant restrictions. This study attempts to explore this gap within a secure hospital, examining service user's representations of staff discourses about sexuality and intimate relationships.

Method

Semi‐structured interviews with eight service users with intellectual disability were analysed using critical discourse analysis.

Results

Analysis enabled construction of 11 themes falling into three categories. Dominant discourses appeared to maintain the integrity of the institution, enable staff to occupy a position of power and demonstrate service users’ responses to perceived control.

Conclusions

Discourses around sex appear to serve the interests of staff and the hospital, while being restrictive and often incomprehensible to service users. Implications for service development, and future research directions, are considered in the context of “Transforming Care.”
Agency, social and healthcare supports for adults with intellectual disability at the end of life in out‐of‐home, non‐institutional community residences in Western nations: A literature review
Authors: Moro Teresa T. , Savage Teresa A. , Gehlert Sarah
Published: June 2017

Background

The nature and quality of end‐of‐life care received by adults with intellectual disabilities in out‐of‐home, non‐institutional community agency residences in Western nations is not well understood.

Method

A range of databases and search engines were used to locate conceptual, clinical and research articles from relevant peer‐reviewed journals.

Results

The present authors present a literature review of the agency, social and healthcare supports that impact end‐of‐life care for adults with intellectual disabilities. More information is needed about where people with intellectual disabilities are living at the very end of life and where they die.

Conclusions

The support needs for adults with intellectual disabilities will change over time, particularly at the end of life. There are some areas, such as removing barriers to providing services, staff training, partnerships between agencies and palliative care providers, and advocacy, where further research may help to improve the end‐of‐life care for adults with intellectual disabilities.
The Employers’ perspective on barriers and facilitators to employment of people with intellectual disability: A differential mixed‐method approach
Authors: Kocman Andreas , Fischer Linda , Weber Germain
Published: June 2017

Background

Obtaining employment is among the most important ambitions of people with intellectual disability. Progress towards comprehensive inclusive employment is hampered by numerous barriers. Limited research is available on these barriers and strategies to overcome them.

Method

A mixed method approach in a sample of 30HR‐managers was used to assess (i) differences in perceived barriers for employment of people with specific disabilities and mental disorders; (ii) barriers specific to employing people with intellectual disability; (iii) strategies to overcome these barriers.

Results

Employers perceive more barriers for hiring people with intellectual disability and mental disorders than for physical disabilities. Employment for this population is hampered by a perceived lack of skills and legal issues. Strategies perceived as beneficial are supplying information, changes in organizational strategies and legal changes.

Conclusions

Employers’ differentiated expectations and reservations towards hiring individuals with specific disabilities need to be taken into account to increase employment for people with intellectual disability.
Myopic market pricing and managerial myopia
Authors: Garel Alexandre
Published: June 2017

This paper develops a firm‐level measure of myopic market pricing, which captures the extent to which the market overvalues short‐term expected abnormal earnings relative to longer‐term ones. The empirical analysis shows that myopically priced firms manage earnings more actively and invest less in R&D. The impact of myopic market pricing is concentrated in firms where managers cater more to market pricing, that is, in firms with greater short‐term investor ownership, with CEO compensation that is more sensitive to the firm share price, and with higher equity dependence. Additional tests show that these findings are robust to the consideration of market (under)overpricing. The results suggest that when managers cater to market pricing, market myopia encourages managerial myopia.
Periodontal status and serum biomarker levels in HFE haemochromatosis patients. A case‐series study
Authors: Meuric Vincent , Lainé Fabrice , Boyer Emile , Le Gall‐David Sandrine , Oger Emmanuel , Bourgeois Denis , Bouchard Philippe , Bardou‐Jacquet Edouard , Turmel Valérie , Bonnaure‐Mallet Martine , Deugnier Yves
Published: June 2017

Aim

To investigate the association between periodontal status and serum biomarkers in patients with HFE haemochromatosis.

Material and Methods

This clinical case series included 84 HFE‐C282Y homozygous patients. Periodontal evaluation was performed using clinical attachment level, probing depth, gingival bleeding index, visible plaque index and gingival index. Serum markers of iron metabolism were collected from medical records. The relationship between serum biomarkers of iron burden and the severity of periodontitis was investigated.

Results

The study population consisted of 47 men and 37 women, routinely treated in the Unit of Hepatology, University Hospital, Rennes. All patients presented with periodontitis (mild: n = 1, moderate: n = 37 and severe: n = 46). There was a positive association between transferrin saturation >45% and the severity of periodontitis (adjusted odds ratio = 5.49, p = .002).

Conclusion

Severe periodontitis is associated with the severity of iron burden in patients with HFE‐related hereditary haemochromatosis. Dental examination should be included in the initial assessment of all these patients.
“Real‐world” pediatric endocrine practice; how much is it influenced by physician's gender and region of practice. Results of an international survey
Authors: Smuel Keren , Yeshayahu Yonatan
Published: June 2017

Objective

To determine whether hormonal treatments for frequent clinical cases (short stature, delayed and precocious puberty) are prescribed strictly according to clinical guidelines or based on personal tendencies, and whether the decisions correlate with physician's personal demographics (age, sex, and place of practice).

Methods

Cross‐sectional survey, with made‐up clinical cases, distributed to pediatric endocrinologists using 2 web‐based professional forums, Israeli and an international. The questionnaire included 8 clinical cases and 5 demographic questions regarding the physician. Differences in practice between Israeli and international endocrinologists were assessed, and correlation between the physician's gender and their decisions regarding treatment.

Results

One hundred fifty‐five physicians responded, 28% Israeli and 72% international. In girls with early puberty, 60% of international and 26% of Israeli physicians chose not to treat with a gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist. In girls with short stature, 79% of Israeli and 34% of international physicians offered growth hormone treatment. In girls with early puberty, both male and female physicians responded similarly in the international group, but in the Israeli group 47% of male and 15% of female doctors would not treat. In girls with constitutional growth delay, 67% of Israeli male doctors would not treat with growth hormone compared to 30% of Israeli female physicians.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated significant practice differences between Israeli and international pediatric endocrinologists. Within the Israeli group, significant practice differences were seen between male and female physicians. Given that Israeli physicians follow the same clinical guidelines it is clear that a large “grey zone” of clinical cases exist and much of the decisions on treatment are personal and influenced by personal beliefs or gender.
Addressing unmet needs of patients with chronic diseases: Impact of the VISIT website during consultations
Authors: Lee Yew Kong , Ng Chirk Jenn , Low Wah Yun
Published: June 2017

Rationale, aims, and objectives

Patient concerns are often neglected in consultations, especially for chronic diseases where patients and providers fall into the routine of chronic disease management in consultations. One strategy to elicit patient concerns has been to ask patients to complete agenda lists before the consultation. This study aimed to explore the impact of a preconsultation agenda website in addressing patients' unmet needs during chronic disease consultations.

Methods

Patients entered their concerns into a website (Values In Shared Interactions Tool (VISIT)). Doctors accessed this information via the electronic medical records before consultations. Individual in‐depth interviews were then conducted with patients and doctors on the website's impact on consultations. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically.

Results

The average age (years) was 65.7 for patients (n = 8) and 35.7 for doctors (n = 7). Patients in the study entered between 1 to 6 items in the website. From postconsultation interviews, we found that the website impacted the consultation in 5 ways: (1) It facilitated patients to communicate their full agenda to doctors; (2) it helped address unmet patient needs as it gave them opportunity to raise other issues besides their chronic condition; (3) it facilitated rapport between doctor and patient; (4) it facilitated doctors to organize their consultation around the concerns the patient had listed; and (5) it disrupted the doctor's usual consultation style if the list of concerns was lengthy.

Conclusions

Integrating patient concerns into electronic health records helped to facilitate patient‐centred consultations. Doctors found this information useful but felt uneasy if the agenda list was too long or too complex. Areas for future studies include training doctors to manage complex agendas and formal evaluation of the VISIT tool.
Evaluation of genotypical antimicrobial resistance in ESBL producing Escherichia coli phylogenetic groups isolated from retail poultry meat
Authors: Klimienė Irena , Virgailis Marius , Kerzienė Sigita , Šiugždinienė Rita , Mockeliūnas Raimundas , Ružauskas Modestas
Published: June 2017

The aim of this study was evaluation of resistance‐encoding genes distribution among extended spectrum beta‐lactamase (ESBL)‐producing Escherichia coli isolated from retail poultry meat. A total of 123 raw poultry breasts meat samples from different batches (sample per batch) were taken from randomly selected six Lithuanian retail markets. The study showed high contamination with E. coli (92.7%), and more than half (54.0%) of the E. coli isolates were ESBL‐producing E. coli. ESBL‐producing E. coli isolates were resistant to beta‐lactams (except cefotetan), monobactams (100%), quinolones (54.5%), and aminoglycosides (33.3%). Most (85.0%) strains were attributed to phylogenetic group B1 and expressed blaCTX‐M genes associated with resistance to β‐lactam antibiotics, while blaTEM was identified more often (70.6%) in phylogenetic group A and blaSHV in phylogenetic group D (50.0%). A subgroup, B1, had the highest antimicrobial resistance rate (74.7%) and more resistance genes were detected in this subgroup. Correlations between phylogenetic groups and the genes that encoded resistance to β‐lactams were not detected. These research findings shows some link between phylogenetic group and antimicrobial resistance genes. Also it shows a high risk of spreading antimicrobial resistance encoding genes to human commensal or potential pathogenic bacteria.

Practical applications

Escherichia coli is common commensal bacteria associated with antimicrobial resistance to wide range of antimicrobials which uses in human medicine also. Genes, encoding antimicrobial resistance, could be easily spread among animals, humans or moved from animals to humans at slaughter or food processing. Even resistant bacteria damaged or killed during food processing, it is possible genetic sequences remain intact. High hygiene standards should be followed at slaughter houses and during food preparation process to avoid potential hazardous genetic material spreading to food processing workers and consumers. It could lead treatment failure in medicine, especially immunocompromised people.
Environmental Evaluation of Industry Cluster Strategies with a Life Cycle Perspective: Replacing Fossil Feedstock with Forest‐Based Feedstock and Increasing Thermal Energy Integration
Authors: Røyne Frida , Hackl Roman , Ringström Emma , Berlin Johanna
Published: June 2017

Symbiotic linkages in industry clusters in the form of interconnected materials, energy and information flows, and close proximity provide unique opportunities to develop efficient environmental strategies. The purpose of our study is to examine the practical potential of applying a life cycle approach in strategy evaluations, as the environmental impact caused by industrial symbiosis systems outside the company gates has been scarcely addressed. This is done by evaluating two strategies for an industry cluster in Sweden: (1) to replace a share of the fossil feedstock used in the industry cluster with forest‐based feedstock and (2) to improve energy efficiency through thermal energy integration. The environmental impact reduction potential of the strategies is evaluated using life cycle assessment. The ratio between investment cost and reduced global warming potential is used as an indicator to evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of the strategies. Results demonstrate the importance of applying a life cycle perspective as the assessment outcome depends heavily on whether only on‐site consequences are assessed or if upstream and downstream processes are also included. 20% of the greenhouse gas emission reduction of the energy integration strategy occurs off‐site, whereas the forest strategy has the largest reduction potential off‐site, >80%.
Neoliberal Care: Intimacy, Romance, and Drug Use in Argentine Dispossessed Populations
Authors: Epele María Esther
Published: June 2017

Basado en el estudio etnográfico que he desarrollado por una década en barrios marginalizados de la Región Metropolitana de Buenos Aires, este artículo examina los cambios en los procesos de formación de parejas heterosexuales, el desarrollo de las prácticas localmente categorizadas como “cuidado” y sus relaciones con el consumo de drogas y supervivencia de los usuario/as de drogas. Partiendo de los desarrollos en Antropología y Ciencias Sociales sobre la problemática del cuidado en general, y cuidado de la salud en particular, el objetivo de este artículo es analizar los modos en que la formación de las parejas heterosexuales implica una solución de compromiso entre diversos procesos sociales (aislamiento territorial, vulnerabilidad en salud, encarcelamiento y muerte de jóvenes). A través de la noción de privatización del cuidado, el análisis muestra las consecuencias de estos procesos en la convivencia de estas parejas y en el refuerzo de los estereotipos de género patriarcales.
Reciprocity and Vernacular Statecraft: Andean Cooperation in Post‐disaster Highland Ecuador
Authors: Faas A. J.
Published: June 2017

Obreros cooperativos conocidos en toda la región andina como mingas, aunque exteriormente aparecen como la misma institución cultural, se practican de manera muy diferente y con distintos significados en diferentes contextos. Este estudio analiza cómo la cooperación minga llegó a exhibir patrones contrastantes, pero íntimamente relacionados, de prácticas y relaciones sociales, tanto en un pueblo afectado y desplazado por un desastre y un reasentamiento inducido por el desastre. Describo cómo los actores en estos diferentes grupos apelan a repertorios aparentemente comunes de significado y la cultura compartida, mientras se organizan de distintas maneras con el fin de acceder y controlar los recursos escasos. En un pueblo, la participación minga se sustenta en gran medida a través de las prácticas tradicionales de reciprocidad, mientras que en el otro se sostienen a través de nuevas estrategias institucionales. En el primero, se movilizan mingas para competir con otros pueblos de escasos recursos, mientras que en la segunda minga participantes compiten entre sí dentro del reasentamiento.
Glycan profiling using formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissues: Hippeastrum hybrid lectin is a sensitive biomarker for squamous cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix
Authors: Tozawa‐Ono Akiko , Kubota Manabu , Honma Chika , Nakagawa Yuko , Yokomichi Noriyuki , Yoshioka Norihito , Tsuda Chiharu , Ohara Tatsuru , Koizumi Hirotaka , Suzuki Nao
Published: June 2017

Aim

Glycosylation of proteins is altered in cancer cells and distinctive glycan structures are associated with specific cancers, but little is known about the complete glycan profile of particular tumors. In this study, glycomic analysis of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the uterine cervix was performed to search for useful markers.

Methods

A lectin microarray containing 45 lectins with different binding preferences that covered N‐ and O‐linked glycans was coupled with evanescent field‐activated fluorescent detection for glycomic analysis of SCC and normal squamous epithelium (NSE) of the cervix. Formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissue specimens were obtained from 16 patients with uterine cervical cancer. Sections that included both tumor and non‐tumor tissues were examined to detect alterations of glycans based on the lectin‐binding pattern.

Results

Hippeastrum hybrid lectin was found to be a sensitive marker for distinguishing SCC of the cervix from NSE. It was the best lectin for discriminating SCC from other tissues according to receiver–operator curve analysis, as it showed a high sensitivity (81.8%), a high specificity (70.1%), and a large area under the curve (0.8182). Histochemistry confirmed specific cytoplasmic staining of SCC cells by Hippeastrum hybrid lectin, while there was little staining of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and no staining of NSE.

Conclusion

The present lectin microarray technique could be applied for tissue‐based glycomic analysis of various tumors and for discovery of glycan‐related biomarkers.
Current status of non‐invasive prenatal testing in Japan
Authors: Samura Osamu , Sekizawa Akihiko , Suzumori Nobuhiro , Sasaki Aiko , Wada Seiji , Hamanoue Haruka , Hirahara Fumiki , Sawai Hideaki , Nakamura Hiroaki , Yamada Takahiro , Miura Kiyonori , Masuzaki Hideaki , Nakayama Setsuko , Okai Takashi , Kamei Yoshimasa , Namba Akira , Murotsuki Jun , Tanemoto Tomohiro , Fukushima Akimune , Haino Kazufumi , Tairaku Shinya , Matsubara Keiichi , Maeda Kazuhisa , Kaji Takashi , Ogawa Masanobu , Osada Hisao , Nishizawa Haruki , Okamoto Yoko , Kanagawa Takeshi , Kakigano Aiko , Kitagawa Michihiro , Ogawa Masaki , Izumi Shunichiro , Katagiri Yukiko , Takeshita Naoki , Kasai Yasuyo , Naruse Katsuhiko , Neki Reiko , Masuyama Hisashi , Hyodo Maki , Kawano Yukie , Ohba Takashi , Ichizuka Kiyotake , Kido Yasuhiro , Fukao Toshiyuki , Miharu Norio , Nagamatsu Takeshi , Watanabe Atsushi , Hamajima Naoki , Hirose Masaya , Sanui Ayako , Shirato Nahoko , Yotsumoto Junko , Nishiyama Miyuki , Hirose Tatsuko , Sago Haruhiko
Published: June 2017

Aim

The purpose of this study was to report the 3‐year experience of a nationwide demonstration project to introduce non‐invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) of maternal plasma for aneuploidy, and review the current status of NIPT in Japan.

Methods

Tests were conducted to detect aneuploidy in high‐risk pregnant women, and adequate genetic counseling was provided. The clinical data, test results, and pregnancy outcomes were recorded. We discuss the problems of NIPT on the basis of published reports and meta‐analyses.

Results

From April 2013 to March 2016, 30 613 tests were conducted at 55 medical sites participating in a multicenter clinical study. Among the 30 613 women tested, 554 were positive (1.81%) and 30 021 were negative (98.1%) for aneuploidy. Of the 289, 128, and 44 women who tested positive for trisomies 21, 18, and 13, respectively, and underwent definitive testing, 279 (96.5%), 106 (82.8%), and 28 (63.6%) were determined to have a true‐positive result. For the 13 481 women with negative result and whose progress could be traced, two had a false‐negative result (0.02%). The tests were performed on the condition that a standard level of genetic counseling be provided at hospitals.

Conclusion

Here, we report on the 3‐year nationwide experience with NIPT in Japan. It is important to establish a genetic counseling system to enable women to make informed decisions regarding prenatal testing. Moreover, a welfare system is warranted to support women who decide to give birth to and raise children with chromosomal diseases.
Racial differences in periodontal disease and 10‐year self‐reported tooth loss among late middle‐aged and older adults: the dental ARIC study
Authors: Naorungroj S. , Slade G. D. , Divaris K. , Heiss G. , Offenbacher S. , Beck J. D.
Published: June 2017

Objective

To investigate racial differences in the associations between periodontitis and 10‐year self‐reported incident tooth loss in a biracial, community‐based cohort of US late middle‐aged and older adults.

Methods

Subjects were 3,466 dentate men and women aged 53‐74 who underwent dental examinations from 1996 to1998. In 2012‐2013, telephone interviewers asked participants about tooth loss in the preceding 10 years. Separate multivariable ordinal logistic regression models were used to calculate proportional odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) as estimates of association between periodontitis and tooth loss for Whites and African‐Americans (AAs).

Results

The majority of participants were White (85 percent) and female (57 percent) with 23 teeth on average at enrollment. Approximately half the Whites (56 percent) and AAs (49 percent) had periodontitis. At follow‐up, approximately 44 percent of AAs and 38 percent of Whites reported having lost ≥1 tooth. In multivariable models, severe periodontitis (OR = 3.03; 95% CI = 2.42‐3.80) and moderate periodontitis (OR = 1.64; 95% CI= 1.39‐1.94) were significant risk factors of incident tooth loss among Whites. For AAs, severe but not moderate periodontitis increased the odds of incident tooth loss (OR = 2.22; 95% CI = 1.37‐3.59). In the final model, education was inversely associated with incident tooth loss among AAs, while lower income was associated with greater odds of tooth loss among Whites.

Conclusions

In this population‐based cohort, there is racial heterogeneity in the association between periodontitis and tooth loss. Interventions to reduce the impact of periodontitis on tooth loss need to consider these differences.
Morphological integration of the kinetic skull inNatrixsnakes
Authors: Andjelković M. , Tomović L. , Ivanović A.
Published: June 2017

Morphological integration, the covariation among phenotypic traits generated by common development and function, has been in the scope of evolutionary research for decades. As a morphological structure with complex development and various functions, the cranial skeleton represents a particularly interesting model for studies on morphological integration. However, most of the empirical investigations were done on akinetic and compact cranial skeletons of mammals. Here, we explore the pattern of integration in the extremely kinetic cranial skeleton of two closely related snake species,Natrix natrixandN. tessellata(Natricinae, Colubridae). In snakes, elements of jaws and palates on the left and right side are not spatially connected or firmly fused, allowing independent motion. Spatial independence of skeletal elements on the left and right side and their functional interconnections with extreme kinetic abilities, provide unique feeding performance in this group of tetrapods. By comparing patterns of symmetric and asymmetric components of variation we analysed cavariation patterns between kinetic and akinetic cranial elements. We tested whether the functionally and spatially connected bones are more integrated than disconnected ones and we examine impact of development and function on the morphological integration. We also explored whether and how allometry affects morphological integration in the snake's skull. Using micro‐CTscanning 3D geometric morphometrics we showed strong covariation between the braincase and elements of the feeding apparatus, and that spatially disconnected elements are not more integrated than the connected ones. We also showed that function is the main factor that generates the pattern of morphological integration, because the signal of developmental integration is very weak and probably masked by strong functional integration of skeletal elements. Allometry has a significant impact on the morphological integration, by increasing integration of the skull, particularly integration of the lower jaw bones (compound and dentary), prefrontal, palatine and quadrate with the other skeletal elements.
The structural inventory of a small complex impact crater: Jebel Waqf as Suwwan, Jordan
Authors: Kenkmann Thomas , Sturm Sebastian , Krüger Tim , Salameh Elias , Al‐Raggad Marwan , Konsul Khalil
Published: June 2017

The investigation of terrestrial impact structures is crucial to gain an in‐depth understanding of impact cratering processes in the solar system. Here, we use the impact structure Jebel Waqf as Suwwan, Jordan, as a representative for crater formation into a layered sedimentary target with contrasting rheology. The complex crater is moderately eroded (300–420 m) with an apparent diameter of 6.1 km and an original rim fault diameter of 7 km. Based on extensive field work, IKONOS imagery, and geophysical surveying we present a novel geological map of the entire crater structure that provides the basis for structural analysis. Parametric scaling indicates that the structural uplift (250–350 m) and the depth of the ring syncline (<200 m) are anomalously low. The very shallow relief of the crater along with a NE vergence of the asymmetric central uplift and the enhanced deformations in the up‐range and down‐range sectors of the annular moat and crater rim suggest that the impact was most likely a very oblique one (~20°). One of the major consequences of the presence of the rheologically anisotropic target was that extensive strata buckling occurred during impact cratering both on the decameter as well as on the hundred‐meter scale. The crater rim is defined by a circumferential normal fault dipping mostly toward the crater. Footwall strata beneath the rim fault are bent‐up in the down‐range sector but appear unaffected in the up‐range sector. The hanging wall displays various synthetic and antithetic rotations in the down‐range sector but always shows antithetic block rotation in the up‐range sector. At greater depth reverse faulting or folding is indicated at the rim indicating that the rim fault was already formed during the excavation stage.
Influences of early child nutritional status and home learning environment on child development in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Phuong H. , DiGirolamo Ann M. , Gonzalez‐Casanova Ines , Young Melissa , Kim Nicole , Nguyen Son , Martorell Reynaldo , Ramakrishnan Usha
Published: June 2017

Early childhood development plays a key role in a child's future health, educational success, and economic status. However, suboptimal early development remains a global challenge. This study examines the influences of quality of the home learning environment (HOME) and child stunting in the first year of life on child development. We used data collected from a randomized controlled trial of preconceptional micronutrient supplementation in Vietnam (n = 1,458). The Bayley Scales of Infant Development‐III were used to assess cognition, language, and motor development domains at 2 years. At 1 year, 14% of children were stunted, and 15%, 58%, and 28% of children lived in poor, medium, and high HOME environments, respectively. In multivariate generalized linear regression models, living in a high HOME environment was significantly associated with higher scores (0.10 to 0.13SD) in each of the developmental domains. Stunted children scored significantly lower for cognitive, language, and motor development (−0.11 to −0.18), compared to nonstunted children. The negative associations between stunting on development were modified by HOME; the associations were strong among children living in homes with a poor learning environment whereas they were nonsignificant for those living in high‐quality learning environments. In conclusion, child stunting the first year of life was negatively associated with child development at 2 years among children in Vietnam, but a high‐quality HOME appeared to attenuate these associations. Early interventions aimed at improving early child growth as well as providing a stimulating home environment are critical to ensure optimal child development.
Generation of the membrane potential and its impact on the motility, ATP production and growth in Campylobacter jejuni
Authors: van der Stel Anne‐Xander , Boogerd Fred C. , Huynh Steven , Parker Craig T. , van Dijk Linda , van Putten Jos P. M. , Wösten Marc M. S. M.
Published: June 2017

The generation of a membrane potential (Δψ), the major constituent of the proton motive force (pmf), is crucial for ATP synthesis, transport of nutrients and flagellar rotation. Campylobacter jejuni harbors a branched electron transport chain, enabling respiration with different electron donors and acceptors. Here, we demonstrate that a relatively high Δψ is only generated in the presence of either formate as electron donor or oxygen as electron acceptor, in combination with an acceptor/donor respectively. We show the necessity of the pmf for motility and growth of C. jejuni. ATP generation is not only accomplished by oxidative phosphorylation via the pmf, but also by substrate‐level phosphorylation via the enzyme AckA. In response to a low oxygen tension, C. jejuni increases the transcription and activity of the donor complexes formate dehydrogenase (FdhABC) and hydrogenase (HydABCD) as well as the transcription of the alternative respiratory acceptor complexes. Our findings suggest that in the gut of warm‐blooded animals, C. jejuni depends on at least formate or hydrogen as donor (in the anaerobic lumen) or oxygen as acceptor (near the epithelial cells) to generate a pmf that sustains efficient motility and growth for colonization and pathogenesis.
Intra‐ and interrater reliability of the Chicago Classification of achalasia subtypes in pediatric high‐resolution esophageal manometry (HRM) recordings
Authors: Singendonk M. M. J. , Rosen R. , Oors J. , Rommel N. , van Wijk M. P. , Benninga M. A. , Nurko S. , Omari T. I.
Published: June 2017

Background

Subtyping achalasia by high‐resolution manometry (HRM) is clinically relevant as response to therapy and prognosis have shown to vary accordingly. The aim of this study was to assess inter‐ and intrarater reliability of diagnosing achalasia and achalasia subtyping in children using the Chicago Classification (CC) V3.0.

Methods

Six observers analyzed 40 pediatric HRM recordings (22 achalasia and 18 non‐achalasia) twice by using dedicated analysis software (ManoView 3.0, Given Imaging, Los Angeles, CA, USA). Integrated relaxation pressure (IRP4s), distal contractile integral (DCI), intrabolus pressurization pattern (IBP), and distal latency (DL) were extracted and analyzed hierarchically. Cohen's κ (2 raters) and Fleiss’ κ (>2 raters) and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were used for categorical and ordinal data, respectively.

Results

Based on the results of dedicated analysis software only, intra‐ and interrater reliability was excellent and moderate (κ=0.89 and κ=0.52, respectively) for differentiating achalasia from non‐achalasia. For subtyping achalasia, reliability decreased to substantial and fair (κ=0.72 and κ=0.28, respectively). When observers were allowed to change the software‐driven diagnosis according to their own interpretation of the manometric patterns, intra‐ and interrater reliability increased for diagnosing achalasia (κ=0.98 and κ=0.92, respectively) and for subtyping achalasia (κ=0.79 and κ=0.58, respectively).

Conclusions

Intra‐ and interrater agreement for diagnosing achalasia when using HRM and the CC was very good to excellent when results of automated analysis software were interpreted by experienced observers. More variability was seen when relying solely on the software‐driven diagnosis and for subtyping achalasia. Therefore, diagnosing and subtyping achalasia should be performed in pediatric motility centers with significant expertise.
Ablation of Tacr2 in mice leads to gastric emptying disturbance
Authors: Mao Y.‐L. , Shen C.‐L. , Zhou T. , Ma B.‐T. , Tang L.‐Y. , Wu W.‐T. , Zhang H.‐X. , Lu H.‐L. , Xu W.‐X. , Wang Z.‐G.
Published: June 2017

Background

Tacr2 is one of the G protein‐coupled receptors(GPCRs) that mediate the biological actions of tachykinins. It is abundantly expressed in the gastrointestinal (GI) system and is thought to play an important role in GI motility, secretion, and visceral sensitivity. Previously, the physiological and pathophysiological functions of Tacr2 were mainly studied using Tacr2 selective agonists or antagonists. Here, we seek to investigate the effect of Tacr2 disruption in mice to provide further insights.

Methods

The Tacr2 knockout mice were generated by homologous recombination and the phenotypic changes of the Tacr2‐null mice were analyzed and compared with their wild type (wt) littermates.

Key Results

Increased food retention was detected in Tacr2−/− mice. The stomach of Tacr2−/− mice had thinner muscularis externa and less neurons in the myenteric plexus. The stomach and small intestine exhibited longer duration of electrical field stimulation (EFS)‐induced inhibition in the gastric fundus and decreased frequency of migrating motor complex (MMC), respectively. Neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) were significantly up‐regulated due to Tarc2 deficiency, contributing to enhanced nitric oxide (NO) signaling in the stomach of Tacr2−/− mice. Intraperitoneal application of 7‐nitroindazole (7‐NI) to Tacr2−/− mice effectively relieved the gastric emptying disturbance. Moreover, Creb and NF‐κB signalings were involved in the regulation of these physiological changes initiated by Tacr2 deficiency.

Conclusions & Inferences

Tacr2 negatively regulated the expression of nNOS and VIP both in vivo and in vitro. Its ablation in mice elevated the expression of nNOS and VIP, enhanced NO signaling and changed the Creb and NF‐κB signalings, finally leading to the gastric emptying disturbance of Tacr2−/− mice.