bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional magnetic resonance imaging in dermatology: The skin, the brain and the invisible
Authors: Mueller Simon M. , Hogg Samuel , Mueller Jannis M. , McKie Shane , Itin Peter , Reinhardt Julia , Griffiths Christopher E.M. , Kleyn Christine Elise
Published: January 2017

The skin and brain have a close bi‐directional anatomical and functional connection. Historically, the skin‐brain axis and the brain‐skin axis have been well described. However, brain function in this context has only recently been demystified with the introduction of functional neuroimaging in dermatology. Functional neuroimaging, especially functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), allows indirect visualisation of brain function. This review looks back to the beginnings of functional neuroimaging in dermatology, summarises the currently available dermatology‐related fMRI studies and discusses the potential future role of fMRI as a stratifying tool in clinical dermatology and in the development of novel therapies. According to the main body of research made in this field, the focus is placed on experimental itch studies, which described the brain structures involved in itch processing, the regulation of the scratch response, contagious itch and itch suppression.
Parabolic variation in sexual selection intensity across the range of a cold‐water pipefish: implications for susceptibility to climate change
Authors: Monteiro Nuno , Cunha Mário , Ferreira Lídia , Vieira Natividade , Antunes Agostinho , Lyons David , Jones Adam G.
Published: January 2017

While an understanding of evolutionary processes in shifting environments is vital in the context of rapid ecological change, one of the most potent selective forces, sexual selection, remains curiously unexplored. Variation in sexual selection across a species range, especially across a gradient of temperature regimes, has the potential to provide a window into the possible impacts of climate change on the evolution of mating patterns. Here, we investigated some of the links between temperature and indicators of sexual selection, using a cold‐water pipefish as model. We found that populations differed with respect to body size, length of the breeding season, fecundity, and sexual dimorphism across a wide latitudinal gradient. We encountered two types of latitudinal patterns, either linear, when related to body size, or parabolic in shape when considering variables related to sexual selection intensity, such as sexual dimorphism and reproductive investment. Our results suggest that sexual selection intensity increases toward both edges of the distribution and that the large differences in temperature likely play a significant role. Shorter breeding seasons in the north and reduced periods for gamete production in the south certainly have the potential to alter mating systems, breeding synchrony, and mate monopolization rates. As latitude and water temperature are tightly coupled across the European coasts, the observed patterns in traits related to sexual selection can lead to predictions regarding how sexual selection should change in response to climate change. Based on data from extant populations, we can predict that as the worm pipefish moves northward, a wave of decreasing selection intensity will likely replace the strong sexual selection at the northern range margin. In contrast, the southern populations will be followed by heightened sexual selection, which may exacerbate the problem of local extinction at this retreating boundary.
Different parts, different stories: climate sensitivity of growth is stronger in root collars vs. stems in tundra shrubs
Authors: Ropars Pascale , Angers‐Blondin Sandra , Gagnon Marianne , Myers‐Smith Isla H. , Lévesque Esther , Boudreau Stéphane
Published: January 2017

Shrub densification has been widely reported across the circumpolar arctic and subarctic biomes in recent years. Long‐term analyses based on dendrochronological techniques applied to shrubs have linked this phenomenon to climate change. However, the multi‐stemmed structure of shrubs makes them difficult to sample and therefore leads to non‐uniform sampling protocols among shrub ecologists, who will favor either root collars or stems to conduct dendrochronological analyses. Through a comparative study of the use of root collars and stems ofBetula glandulosa, a common North American shrub species, we evaluated the relative sensitivity of each plant part to climate variables and assessed whether this sensitivity is consistent across three different types of environments in northwestern Québec, Canada (terrace, hilltop and snowbed). We found that root collars had greater sensitivity to climate than stems and that these differences were maintained across the three types of environments. Growth at the root collar was best explained by spring precipitation and summer temperature, whereas stem growth showed weak and inconsistent responses to climate variables. Moreover, sensitivity to climate was not consistent among plant parts, as individuals having climate‐sensitive root collars did not tend to have climate‐sensitive stems. These differences in sensitivity of shrub parts to climate highlight the complexity of resource allocation in multi‐stemmed plants. Whereas stem initiation and growth are driven by microenvironmental variables such as light availability and competition, root collars integrate the growth of all plant parts instead, rendering them less affected by mechanisms such as competition and more responsive to signals of global change. Although further investigations are required to determine the degree to which these findings are generalizable across the tundra biome, our results indicate that consistency and caution in the choice of plant parts are a key consideration for the success of future dendroclimatological studies on shrubs.
Fat mass and obesity‐associated gene variations are related to fatty liver disease inHIV‐infected patients
Authors: Núñez‐Torres R , Macías J , Rivero‐Juarez A , Neukam K , Merino D , Téllez F , Merchante N , Gómez‐Mateos J , Rivero A , Pineda JA , Real LM ,   the Group for the Study of Viral Hepatitis (HEPAVIR) of The Andalusian Society of Infectious Diseases (SAEI)
Published: January 2017

Objectives

Fatty liver disease (FLD) is frequently observed inHIV‐infected patients. Obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are strongly associated withFLD. Because genetic variants within the fat mass and obesity‐associated (FTO) gene have been associated with both pathologies, our aim was to evaluate the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within theFTO, previously related to obesity or T2DM, withFLDinHIV‐infected patients.

Methods

FLDwas defined as a value of the controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) ≥ 238dB/m, obtained by transient elastography. FourSNPs withinFTOintron 1 (rs11642841, rs8050136, rs9939609 and rs9940128) were genotyped in 421 individuals using a custom Golden Gate protocol. The results were replicated in a validation sample consisting of a further 206HIV‐infected patients. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted in the entire population.

Results

ThreeSNPs (rs8050136, rs9939609 and rs9940128) were associated withFLD, with rs9940128 showing the strongest association. This polymorphism also showed an association withFLDin the validation sample. In total, rs9940128 was genotyped in 627HIV‐infected patients, including 267 (42.6%)FLD‐diagnosed individuals. The frequency ofFLDamong rs9940128AAcarriers was 55.7% (63 of 113 individuals) and that in patients without this genotype was 39.7% (204 of 514 individuals) [P= 0.009; adjusted odds ratio 1.88; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.17–3.01].

Conclusions

Variations withinFTOmay be predictors ofFLDinHIV‐infected patients independently of metabolic factors.
Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract protects human foreskin melanocytes from oxidative stress in vitro and potentiates hair follicle pigmentation ex vivo
Authors: Sextius P. , Betts R. , Benkhalifa I. , Commo S. , Eilstein J. , Massironi M. , Wang P. , Michelet J.‐F. , Qiu J. , Tan X. , Jeulin S.
Published: January 2017

Objective

To examine the ability of an extract from traditional Chinese medicine, Polygonum multiflorum Radix, to protect melanocyte viability from oxidative stress, a key mechanism in the initiation and progression of hair greying.

Methods

To assess the antioxidant capacity of Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract, primary human foreskin melanocytes were treated with a commercially available Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract added to culture medium and exposed to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), using intracellular reactive oxygen species concentrations and glutathione/protein ratios as endpoints. To improve solubility for cosmetic uses, a new Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract was derived. As hair greying is the consequence of melanocyte disappearance in an oxidative stress environment, we checked whether the antioxidant capacity of the new Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract could preserve melanocyte viability in response to H2O2‐induced oxidative stress, and preserve pigmentation within ex vivo human hair follicles.

Results

In vitro treatment of primary human foreskin melanocytes with traditional available Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract resulted in decreased intracellular ROS accumulation in response to H2O2 exposure with a concomitant preservation of glutathione‐to‐protein ratio, consistent with a protective response against H2O2 exposure and demonstrating the promise of this extract for protecting melanocytes against oxidative stress. Melanocytes treated with the improved Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract exhibited attenuated H2O2‐induced cell death, demonstrating a clear cytoprotective effect. Treatment of ex vivo human hair follicles with the improved Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract resulted in a higher level of melanin compared to vehicle‐treated controls, demonstrating an ex vivo protective effect on hair pigmentation.

Conclusion

Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract protects in vitro primary human foreskin melanocytes from the deleterious effects of H2O2 exposure and improves pigmentation within ex vivo human hair follicles, demonstrating the utility of Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract as a potential active ingredient for the protection of melanocytes against premature death. This data provides in vitro mechanistic evidence consistent with existing in vivo studies for the use of Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract as a strategy for the prevention of oxidative stress‐induced hair greying, in line with traditional Polygonum multiflorum Radix uses.
Oral health‐related quality of life in patients with temporomandibular disorders: A case‐control study considering psychological aspects
Authors: Bayat M , Abbasi AJ , Noorbala AA , Mohebbi SZ , Moharrami M , Yekaninejad MS
Published: January 2017

Objectives

This case‐control study aimed to compare patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and healthy controls in terms of oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) considering Graded Chronic Pain Scale (GCPS) scores, pain duration, psychological impairment and demographic characteristics.

Methods

A total of 75 patients with TMD and 75 healthy controls were recruited. The short version of Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP‐14) was administered for evaluating the OHRQoL. Psychosocial impairments were assessed using the General Health Questionnaire‐28 (GHQ‐28). The Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD) axis I and II were also used for patient diagnosis and collecting GCPS scores, pain duration, age and gender. Independent‐sample t tests, Pearson's chi‐square tests and multiple logistic and linear regression models were applied for statistical analysis.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 34.3±12.4 years. A female‐to‐male ratio of 6:1 was seen in the TMD group. The prevalence and severity of the OHIP were significantly different between the TMD and control groups (66.7% vs 12.0% and 18.0 vs 9.2, respectively). According to multiple logistic regression for OHIP prevalence and multiple linear regression for OHIP severity in the TMD group, GCPS scores and pain duration, followed by psychological impairment, were the most important predictors of the OHRQoL.

Conclusion

TMD negatively affected the OHRQoL, particularly in patients with psychological impairments. Meanwhile, age and gender did not seem to have a serious effect. Hence, promoting the quality of life of patients with TMD requires emphasis on chronic pain management and maintaining good mental health.
Odontoblastic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells from healthy and carious teeth on an original PCL‐based 3D scaffold
Authors: Louvrier A. , Euvrard E. , Nicod L. , Rolin G. , Gindraux F. , Pazart L. , Houdayer C. , Risold P. Y. , Meyer F. , Meyer C.
Published: January 2017

Aims

To isolate and characterize dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) obtained from carious and healthy mature teeth extracted when conservative treatment was not possible or for orthodontic reasons; to evaluate the ability of DPSCs to colonize, proliferate and differentiate into functional odontoblast‐like cells when cultured onto a polycaprolactone cone made by jet‐spraying and prototyped into a design similar to a gutta‐percha cone.

Methodology

DPSCs were obtained from nine carious and 12 healthy mature teeth. Then cells were characterized by flow cytometry and submitted to multidifferentiation to confirm their multipotency. These DPSCs were then cultured on a polycaprolactone cone in an odontoblastic differentiation medium. Cell proliferation, colonization of the biomaterial and functional differentiation of cells were histologically assessed. For the characterization, at‐Student test was used to compare the two groups.

Results

In all cell cultures, characterization highlighted a mesenchymal stem cell phenotype (CD105+, CD90+, CD73+, CD11b−, CD34−, CD45−, HLA‐DR−). No significant differences were found between cultures obtained from carious and healthy mature teeth. DPSCs from both origins were able to differentiate into osteocytes, adipocytes and chondrocytes. Cell colonization was observed both on the surface and in the thickness of polycaprolactone cones as well as a mineralized pericellular matrix deposit composed of type I collagen, alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin and dentin sialophosphoprotein.

Conclusions

DPSCs were isolated from both carious and healthy mature teeth. They were able to colonize and proliferate within a polycaprolactone cone and could be differentiated into functional odontoblast‐like cells.
The effect of accelerated mineral trioxide aggregate on odontoblastic differentiation in dental pulp stem cell niches
Authors: Kulan P. , Karabiyik O. , Kose G. T. , Kargul B.
Published: January 2017

Aim

To investigate the effect of accelerated‐set mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) on the proliferation and odontoblastic differentiation of human dental pulp cell niches (DPSC).

Methodology

ProRoot White MTA (WMTA; Dentsply Tulsa Dental, Johnson City, TN, USA) was mixed with various additives, which included distilled water, 2.5% disodium hydrogen phosphate (Na2HPO4; Merck, Darmstadt, Germany) and 5% calcium chloride (CaCl2; Merck). DPSC niches extracted from third molars were cultured directly on MTA in the culture medium. Cell viability was evaluated by 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐5‐(3‐carboxymethoxyphenyl)‐2‐(4‐ sulphophenyl)‐2H‐tetrazolium (MTS) assay. Cell growth and expression of odontoblastic differentiation markers (dentine sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) and collagen type 1 (COL1)) were determined using Real‐Time Polymerase Chain Reaction analysis. Osteo‐/odontogenic differentiation of DPSC niches was evaluated by measurement of alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP). Calcium deposition was assessed using von Kossa staining. The results were analysed statistically using Mann–Whitney tests and Kruskal–Wallis tests.

Results

MTA mixed with 5% CaCl2 and 2.5% Na2HPO4 exhibited optimal cell viability (P < 0.05) compared to MTA mixed with distilled water. MTA mixed with 5% CaCl2 and 2.5% Na2HPO4 significantly increased ALP activity (P < 0.05), significantly promoted mineralization nodule formation (P < 0.05) and significantly enhanced the mRNA expression level of the osteogenic/odontogenic markers (P < 0.05; DSPP and COL1) compared with MTA mixed with distilled water.

Conclusions

MTA mixed with 5% CaCl2 and 2.5% Na2HPO4 was biocompatible with dental pulp stem cell niches. Accelerated‐set MTA promoted better differentiation in DPSC niches than conventional MTA. The accelerators could provide an alternative to MTA mixed with distilled water.
Mucosal immune tolerance at the ocular surface in health and disease
Authors: Galletti Jeremías G. , Guzmán Mauricio , Giordano Mirta N.
Published: January 2017

The ocular surface is constantly exposed to environmental irritants, allergens and pathogens, against which it can mount a prompt immune response to preserve its integrity. But to avoid unnecessary inflammation, the ocular surface's mucosal immune system must also discriminate between harmless and potentially dangerous antigens, a seemingly complicated task. Despite its unique features, the ocular surface is a mucosal lining, and as such, it shares some homeostatic and pathophysiological mechanisms with other mucosal surfaces. The purpose of this review is to explore the mucosal homeostatic immune function of the ocular surface in both the healthy and diseased states, with a special focus on mucosal immunology concepts. The information discussed in this review has been retrieved by PubMed searches for literature published from January 1981 to October 2016.
Effects of detraining on anthropometry, aerobic capacity and functional ability in adults with Down syndrome
Authors: Boer PH
Published: January 2017

Background

Structured exercise has shown to improve parameters of functional fitness in adults with Down syndrome (DS). However, few, if any, continue to exercise after exercise intervention studies. Consequently, the purpose of this study was to determine the effects of detraining on anthropometry, aerobic capacity and functional ability of adults with DS.

Methods

In a previous study, forty‐two participants either performed 12 weeks of interval training, continuous aerobic training or no training (CON). After 3 months of detraining, the same participants were tested again for anthropometry, aerobic capacity, leg strength and functional ability.

Results

Significant reductions in maximal aerobic capacity, time to exhaustion and both functional test items were reported for both exercise groups compared to CON (p < .05). No significant differences were reported between the exercise groups concerning aerobic and functional capacity reductions.

Conclusion

Detraining occurred significantly in both exercise groups regarding parameters associated with aerobic and functional capacity.
Chemotherapeutic decontamination of dental implants colonized by mature multispecies oral biofilm
Authors: Dostie Sebastien , Alkadi Lubna T. , Owen Gethin , Bi Jiarui , Shen Ya , Haapasalo Markus , Larjava Hannu S.
Published: January 2017

Aim

No studies have tested disinfectants on mature multispecies oral biofilms on titanium substrata. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of commonly used antimicrobial agents in decontamination of multispecies mature oral biofilm on sandblasted, large‐grit, acid‐etched (SLA) titanium implants.

Methods

SLA titanium disks were inoculated with dental plaque and cultured anaerobically for 21 days. The disks were rinsed with 0.9% NaCl, exposed for 2 min. to tetracycline paste, 1% Chlorhexidine gel (CHX), 35% phosphoric acid gel (Etch) or a novel chemical formula (0.3% cetrimide, 0.1% CHX and 0.5% EDTA) and then rinsed again with 0.9% NaCl. Bacteria were quantified from scanning electron micrographs of the implant surfaces. Living bacteria were quantified with confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM).

Results and Conclusions

Rinsing the surfaces with 0.9% NaCl removed the majority of the biofilm. However, bacteria persisted in all specimens and none of the disinfectants was superior to the double saline rinse group. CLSM analysis showed that CHX and Etch groups had a statistically significant reduction of viable bacteria, although small. Overall the results show that many disinfection agents used in the clinic are ineffective in biofilm removal and leave live bacteria on the surface.
Correlation between polymorphism in the inosine triphosphatase and the reductions in hemoglobin concentration and ribavirin dose during sofosbuvir and ribavirin therapy
Authors: Kozuka Ritsuzo , Hai Hoang , Teranishi Yuga , Motoyama Hiroyuki , Kawamura Etsushi , Hagihara Atsushi , Uchida‐Kobayashi Sawako , Morikawa Hiroyasu , Enomoto Masaru , Murakami Yoshiki , Kawada Norifumi , Tamori Akihiro
Published: January 2017

Background and Aim

It is unclear whether polymorphism in the inosine triphosphatase (ITPA) gene correlates to the reduction in hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations during sofosbuvir (SOF) and ribavirin (RBV) therapy. This study investigated the effects of the ITPA polymorphism on Japanese patients with chronic hepatitis C virus genotype 2 infection treated with SOF/RBV therapy.

Methods

In 106 patients treated with SOF/RBV therapy, this study assessed the effects of the ITPA polymorphism (rs1127354) on anemia, RBV dose reduction, and sustained virological response.

Results

Of the 106 patients, 80 had the CC genotype, whereas 26 had a non‐CC genotype in ITPA. Patients with the CC genotype had significantly larger reductions in Hb concentrations than those with a non‐CC genotype throughout the treatment course. RBV dose reduction was required in 18/106 (17.0%) patients, with a significantly higher frequency in patients with the CC genotype than in those with a non‐CC genotype (P = 0.010). In multivariate analysis, age ≥ 65 years (P = 0.011) and the ITPA CC genotype (P < 0.0001) were factors significantly associated with anemia throughout the treatment course. Sustained virological response was achieved in 99.0% of all patients: 98.7% of patients with the CC genotype and 100% of patients with a non‐CC genotype.

Conclusions

Inosine triphosphatase polymorphism appeared to correlate with anemia incidence and RBV dose reduction during SOF/RBV therapy, but not the clinical outcome. Careful monitoring of Hb concentrations and prompt adjustment of RBV doses are required for successful treatment, particularly in patients harboring the ITPA CC genotype or age ≥ 65 years.
The effect of X‐ray micro computed tomography image resolution on flow properties of porous rocks
Authors: LATIEF F.D.E. , FAUZI U. , IRAYANI Z. , DOUGHERTY G.
Published: January 2017

The study of digital rock physics has seen significant advances due to the development of X‐ray micro computed tomography scanning devices. One of the advantages of using such a device is that the pore structure of rock can be mapped down to the micrometre level in three dimensions. However, in providing such high‐resolution images (low voxel size), the resulting file sizes are necessarily large (of the order of gigabytes). Lower image resolution (high voxel size) produces smaller file sizes (of the order of hundreds of megabytes), but risks losing significant details. This study describes the effect of the image resolution obtained by means of hardware‐based and software‐based approach. Four samples of porous rock were scanned using a SkyScan 1173 High Energy Micro‐CT. We found that acquisition using increased pixel binning of the camera (hardware‐based resizing) significantly affects the calculated physical properties of the samples. By contrast, voxel resizing by means of a software‐based approach during the reconstruction process yielded less effect on the porosity and specific surface area of the samples. However, the decreasing resolution of the image obtained by both the hardware‐based and the software‐based approaches affects the permeability significantly. We conclude that simulating fluid flow through the pore space using the Lattice Boltzmann method to calculate the permeability has a significant dependency on the image resolution.
Forced Asset Sales and the Concentration of Outstanding Debt: Evidence from the Mortgage Market
Authors: FAVARA GIOVANNI , GIANNETTI MARIASSUNTA
Published: January 2017

We provide evidence that lenders differ in their ex post incentives to internalize price‐default externalities associated with the liquidation of collateralized debt. Using the mortgage market as a laboratory, we conjecture that lenders with a large share of outstanding mortgages on their balance sheets internalize the negative spillovers associated with the liquidation of defaulting mortgages and thus are less inclined to foreclose. We provide evidence consistent with our conjecture. Arguably as a consequence, zip codes with a higher concentration of outstanding mortgages experience smaller house prices declines. These results are not driven by unobservable zip code or lender characteristics.
Color vision abnormality as the sole manifestation of posterior reversible encephalopathy due to post‐partum HELLP syndrome
Authors: Takahashi Hironori , Matsubara Teppei , Makino Shinji , Horie Kenji , Matsubara Shigeki
Published: January 2017

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is associated with several symptoms; of those, visual acuity loss, light oversensitivity (photophobia), and light flashes (photopsia) are known as PRES‐related eye symptoms. We report a post‐partum woman with PRES associated with hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets syndrome (HELLP), in whom color vision abnormality (achromatopsia) was the sole manifestation. Cesarean section was performed at 28 weeks due to headache, epigastralgia, and severe hypertension. HELLP became evident after delivery. On post‐partum day 1, she complained of achromatopsia, stating: “all things look brownish‐gray”. Ophthalmologic examination was normal, but brain magnetic resonance imaging showed occipital lobe lesions, indicative of PRES, and, interestingly, also color vision center (area V4) lesions, suggesting that the achromatopsia had been caused by brain damage. It may be prudent to question HELLP patients concerning achromatopsia.
Computer‐assisted technologies used in oral rehabilitation and the clinical documentation of alleged advantages – a systematic review
Authors: Jokstad A.
Published: January 2017

The objective of this systematic review is to identify current computer‐assisted technologies used for managing patients with a need to re‐establish craniofacial appearance, subjective discomfort and stomatognathic function, and the extent of their clinical documentation. Electronic search strategies were used for locating clinical studies in MEDLINE through PubMed and in the Cochrane library, and in the grey literature through searches on Google Scholar. The searches for commercial digital products for use in oral rehabilitation resulted in identifying 225 products per November 2016, used for patient diagnostics, communication and therapy purposes, and for other computer‐assisted applications in context with oral rehabilitation. About one‐third of these products were described in about 350 papers reporting from clinical human studies. The great majority of digital products for use in oral rehabilitation has no clinical documentation at all, while the products from a distinct minority of manufacturers have frequently appeared in more or less scientific reports. Moore's law apply also to digital dentistry, which predicts that the capacity of microprocessors will continue to become faster and with lower cost per performance unit, and innovative software programs will harness these improvements in performance. The net effect is the noticeable short product life cycle of digital products developed for use in oral rehabilitation and often lack of supportive clinical documentation. Nonetheless, clinicians must request clinically meaningful information about new digital products to assess net benefits for the patients or the dental professionals and not accept only technological verbiage as a basis for product purchases.
Melatonin and sirtuins: A “not‐so unexpected” relationship
Authors: Mayo Juan C. , Sainz Rosa M. , González Menéndez Pedro , Cepas Vanesa , Tan Dun‐Xian , Reiter Russel J.
Published: January 2017

Epigenetic modifications, including methylation or acetylation as well as post‐transcriptional modifications, are mechanisms used by eukaryotic cells to increase the genome diversity in terms of differential gene expression and protein diversity. Among these modifying enzymes, sirtuins, a class III histone deacetylase (HDAC) enzymes, are of particular importance. Sirtuins regulate the cell cycle, DNA repair, cell survival, and apoptosis, thus having important roles in normal and cancer cells. Sirtuins can also regulate metabolic pathways by changing preference for glycolysis under aerobic conditions as well as glutaminolysis. These actions make sirtuins a major target in numerous physiological processes as well as in other contexts such as calorie restriction‐induced anti‐aging, cancer, or neurodegenerative disease. Interestingly, melatonin, a nighttime‐produced indole synthesized by pineal gland and many other organs, has important cytoprotective effects in many tissues including aging, neurodegenerative diseases, immunomodulation, and cancer. The pleiotropic actions of melatonin in different physiological and pathological conditions indicate that may be basic cellular targeted for the indole. Thus, much research has focused attention on the potential mechanisms of the indole in modulating expression and/or activity of sirtuins. Numerous findings report a rise in activity, especially on SIRT1, in a diversity of cells and animal models after melatonin treatment. This contrasts, however, with data reporting an inhibitory effect of melatonin on this sirtuin in some tumor cells. This review tabulates and discusses the recent findings relating melatonin with sirtuins, particularly SIRT1 and mitochondrial SIRT3, showing the apparent dichotomy with the differential actions documented in normal and in cancer cells.
Aminoaciduria Caused by Fanconi Syndrome in a Heifer
Authors: Cesbron N. , Dorso L. , Royer A.‐L. , Dervilly‐Pinel G. , Hervé J.
Published: January 2017

A case study of renal tubular dysfunction consistent with idiopathic Fanconi syndrome is reported in an 18‐month‐old Holstein heifer. The clinical, biochemical, and histopathological features are described. The heifer had clinical signs of growth retardation, wasting, and persistent diarrhea. Biochemical blood analysis identified hypokalemia, hyponatremia, and hypochloremia. Urinalysis identified glycosuria, proteinuria, and acidic pH. Histological examination of the kidney disclosed mild tubular necrosis with proteinaceous casts in the lumina of renal tubules. We performed LC‐HRMS on urine to confirm Fanconi syndrome. Using this technique, we identified severe generalized aminoaciduria suggestive of idiopathic renal Fanconi syndrome in this heifer.
Changes in Serum Creatinine Concentration and Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) Grade in Dogs Treated with Hydroxyethyl Starch 130/0.4 From 2013 to 2015
Authors: Sigrist N.E. , Kälin N. , Dreyfus A.
Published: January 2017

Background

Hydroxyethyl starch (HES) solutions may cause acute kidney injury (AKI) in humans.

Objective

To compare AKI grades in 94 dogs exposed and 90 dogs that were unexposed to 6% HES‐130/0.4.

Animals

Dogs receiving 6% HES‐130/0.4 (HES cohort) or crystalloids (unexposed cohort) between 2013 and 2015.

Methods

Historical cohort study. Diagnosis, total cumulative dose and total mL/kg of HES administered, time frame of HES administration and serum creatinine concentrations up to 90 days after initiation of HES treatment were retrospectively reviewed. The AKI grades were retrospectively determined by IRIS guidelines.

Results

Exposed dogs received a median cumulative dose of 69.4 mL/kg (range, 2–429 mL/kg) HES over a median of 4 (range, 1–16) days, resulting in a median dose of 20.7 (range, 2–87) mL/kg/d. Although the cohorts differed in terms of age and diagnosis, AKI grades were not significantly different at the evaluated short‐ and long‐term time points. Results of ordinal logistic regression identified the number of days of HES administration as significantly associated with an increase in AKI grade within 10 days (P = .038), whereas there was no significant association among HES exposure, HES mL/kg/d, and an increase in AKI grade.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

HES‐130/0.4‐treated dogs were not more prone to develop AKI than HES‐untreated, but the number of HES days was significantly associated with an increase in AKI grade within 10 days post‐HES administration. The time frame of HES treatment should be kept short. Prospective, randomized clinical trials are required to assess the effect of HES on renal function in dogs.
Why wood density varies across communities
Authors: Swenson Nathan G. , Zambrano Jenny
Published: January 2017

Communities are the emergent outcome of individual‐level trait–environment interactions. In this issue of the Journal of Vegetation Science, Ibanez et al. utilize an impressive data set from New Caledonia to demonstrate how the interaction of climatic axes drives the distribution and diversity of wood density in tree communities. Here, we discuss their specific findings and their broader implications for trait‐based ecology.
A Prey‐Predator Model of Trade Union Density and Inequality in 12 Advanced Capitalisms over Long Periods
Authors: Chauvel Louis , Schröder Martin
Published: January 2017

This article shows empirically how trade union membership and income inequality are mutually related in twelve countries over more than 100 years. While past research has shown that high income inequality occurs alongside low trade union membership, we show that past income inequality actually increases trade union membership with a time lag, as trade unions recruit more members after inequality has been high. But we also show that strengthened trade unions then fight inequality, thereby destroying what helped them to recruit new members in the past. As trade union density decreases, inequality increases and eventually re‐incentivises workers to join unions again. By showing this empirically, we reconceptualise the relationship between inequality and union density as a prey and predator model, where predators eat prey – unions destroy inequality, but thereby also destroy their own basis for survival. By empirically showing that trade union density and social inequality influence each other in this way over long periods, this article contributes to a dynamic approach on how social problems and social movements interact.
Do More of Those in Misery Suffer from Poverty, Unemployment or Mental Illness?
Authors: Flèche Sarah , Layard Richard
Published: January 2017

Studies of deprivation usually ignore mental illness. This paper uses household panel data from the USA, Australia, Britain and Germany to broaden the analysis. We ask first how many of those in the lowest levels of life‐satisfaction suffer from unemployment, poverty, physical ill health, and mental illness. The largest proportion suffers from mental illness. Multiple regression shows that mental illness is not highly correlated with poverty or unemployment, and that it contributes more to explaining the presence of misery than is explained by either poverty or unemployment. This holds both with and without fixed effects.
Historical Prevalence of Infectious Diseases, Cultural Values, and the Origins of Economic Institutions
Authors: Nikolaev Boris , Salahodjaev Raufhon
Published: January 2017

It is widely believed that economic institutions such as competitive markets, the banking system, and the structure of property rights are essential for economic development. But why economic institutions vary across countries and what are their deep origins is still a question that is widely debated in the developmental economics literature. In this study, we provide an empirical test for the provocative hypothesis that the prevalence of infectious diseases influenced the formation of personality traits, cultural values, and even morality at the regional level (the so called Parasite‐ Stress Theory of Values and Sociality), which then shaped economic institutions across countries. Using the prevalence of pathogens as an instrument for cultural traits such as individualism, we show in a two‐stage least squares analysis that various economic institutions, measured by different areas of the index of Economic Freedom by the Heritage Foundation, have their deep origins in the historical prevalence of infectious diseases across countries. Our causal identification strategy suggests that cultural values affect economic institutions even after controlling for a number of confounding variables, geographic controls, and for different sub‐samples of countries. We further show that the results are robust to four alternative measures of economic and political institutions.
Are Left‐Wing Governments Really Pro‐Labor? An Empirical Investigation for Latin America
Authors: Vadlamannati Krishna Chaitanya , Tamazian Artur
Published: January 2017

Are left‐wing governments in Latin America, as proclaimed by their leaders, really pro‐labor? It is often argued that left‐wing governments in Latin America have implemented pro‐labor policies. In this paper we put these claims to an empirical test using 37 aspects of de facto (practices) and de jure (laws) violations of labor rights. Using panel data on 26 Latin American and Caribbean countries during the period 1985–2002, we do not find any effect of left‐leaning chief executives on labor rights. While left‐leaning chief executives do legislate laws protecting labor rights, the enforcement of these laws is abysmally weak. Further evidence suggests that cohesive left‐wing governments are more likely to legislate laws protecting labor rights than diverse governments. These results are robust to alternative measures of ideology, estimation methods, and controlling for endogeneity. The policy implications suggest that irrespective of the political ideology, upholding labor rights in Latin America requires strengthening the enforcement capacity.
Lectin‐complement pathway molecules are decreased in patients with cirrhosis and constitute the risk of bacterial infections
Authors: Foldi Ildiko , Tornai Tamas , Tornai David , Sipeki Nora , Vitalis Zsuzsanna , Tornai Istvan , Dinya Tamas , Antal‐Szalmas Peter , Papp Maria
Published: January 2017

Background & Aims

Lectin pathway molecules of the complement system are synthesized by hepatocytes and have pivotal role in innate host defence against infectious organisms. Ficolins (FCNs) act as soluble pattern recognition molecules, while mannan‐binding lectin serine proteases(MASPs) do as effector molecules in elimination of pathogens. We aimed to study the significance of low level of these molecules in the development of cirrhosis‐associated bacterial infections, which has not been elucidated so far.

Methods

Sera of 266 stable outpatients with cirrhosis and 160 healthy subjects were assayed for a panel of lectin molecules (FCN‐2, FCN‐3 and MASP‐2) by ELISA. In cirrhosis, a 5‐year follow‐up observational study was conducted to assess a possible association between lectin levels and development of clinically significant bacterial infections(CSI).

Results

FCN‐2, FCN‐3 and MASP‐2 levels were significantly lower in cirrhosis compared to healthy subjects and decreased according to disease severity (P<.001 for all molecules). In Kaplan‐Meier analysis, development of CSI was associated with low level of FCN‐2 (<427 ng/mL, pLogRank=0.047) and FCN‐3 (<4857 ng/mL, pLogRank=0.029), but not with MASP‐2 deficiency (<100 ng/mL, pLogRank=0.306). Combined FCN deficiency was associated with increased risk of development of bacterial infections in a step‐wise manner. Patients with low level of both FCNs had higher cumulative probability of CSI (63.8%) compared to those with low level of one or normal FCN (52.7% and 45.7%, pLogRank=0.016). Neither FCN serum profile, nor MASP‐2 deficiency were associated with infection‐related mortality.

Conclusions

Low level of FCNs associated with hepatic insufficiency might be considered as an additional constituent of cirrhosis‐associated immune dysfunction.
Low transferrin and high ferritin concentrations are associated with worse outcome in acute liver failure
Authors: Anastasiou Olympia E. , Kälsch Julia , Hakmouni Mahdi , Kucukoglu Ozlem , Heider Dominik , Korth Johannes , Manka Paul , Sowa Jan‐Peter , Bechmann Lars , Saner Fuat H. , Paul Andreas , Gerken Guido , Baba Hideo A. , Canbay Ali
Published: January 2017

Background & Aims

Serum ferritin and transferrin have been identified as prognostic markers in patients with chronic diseases. In this study, we investigated if these parameters can predict outcome in patients with acute liver failure.

Methods

A total of 102 consecutive patients with acute liver failure were retrospectively analysed. The patients were grouped by outcome: spontaneous recovery vs liver transplantation and/or death or survival vs death. Routine laboratory parameters, transferrin and ferritin concentrations in serum, and anthropomorphic data collected on admission were analysed.

Results

Non‐spontaneously recovering patients had higher ferritin (12 252±25 791 vs 4434.4±9027.2 μg/L; P<.05) and lower transferrin levels (140.4±66.7 vs 206.9±65.8 mg/dL; P<.05) than spontaneously recovering patients. Similarly non‐survivors exhibited higher serum ferritin and lower transferrin than non‐transplanted survivors. Patients with severe hepatic inflammation (A3) had higher ferritin levels compared to patients with mild‐moderate inflammation (A1‐2) (5280±5094 vs 2361±2737 μg/L; P=.025). ROC analysis of single parameters was performed in non‐transplanted patients, resulting in an area under the curve, sensitivity and specificity of 0.812%, 83.3%, and 77.1% for age, 0.871%, 84.1% and 75% for transferrin and 0.802%, 91.7% and 62.9% for ferritin. A model incorporating age, MELD and transferrin had the best predictive value with an area under the curve of 0.947, a sensitivity of 100% and corresponding specificity of 77.8%.

Conclusions

High ferritin and low transferrin levels are associated with worse outcome in patients with acute liver failure. A model incorporating age, MELD score and transferrin outperformed MELD score for 90‐day overall survival of non‐transplanted patients.
Cognitive and behavioural strategies for self‐directed weight loss: systematic review of qualitative studies
Authors: Hartmann‐Boyce J. , Boylan A.‐M. , Jebb S. A. , Fletcher B. , Aveyard P.
Published: January 2017

Aim

We conducted a systematic review of qualitative studies to examine the strategies people employ as part of self‐directed weight loss attempts, map these to an existing behaviour change taxonomy and explore attitudes and beliefs surrounding these strategies.

Methods

Seven electronic databases were searched in December 2015 for qualitative studies in overweight and obese adults attempting to lose weight through behaviour change. We were interested in strategies used by participants in self‐directed efforts to lose weight. Two reviewers extracted data from included studies. Thematic and narrative synthesis techniques were used.

Results

Thirty one studies, representing over 1,000 participants, were included. Quality of the included studies was mixed. The most commonly covered types of strategies were restrictions, self‐monitoring, scheduling, professional support and weight management aids. With the exception of scheduling, for which participant experiences were predominantly positive, participants' attitudes and beliefs surrounding implementation of these groups of strategies were mixed. Two new groups of strategies were added to the existing taxonomy: reframing and self‐experimentation.

Conclusions

This review demonstrates that at present, interventions targeting individuals engaged in self‐management of weight do not necessarily reflect lived experiences of self‐directed weight loss.
OsCESA9 conserved‐site mutation leads to largely enhanced plant lodging resistance and biomass enzymatic saccharification by reducing cellulose DP and crystallinity in rice
Authors: Li Fengcheng , Xie Guosheng , Huang Jiangfeng , Zhang Ran , Li Yu , Zhang Miaomiao , Wang Yanting , Li Ao , Li Xukai , Xia Tao , Qu Chengcheng , Hu Fan , Ragauskas Arthur J. , Peng Liangcai
Published: January 2017

Genetic modification of plant cell walls has been posed to reduce lignocellulose recalcitrance for enhancing biomass saccharification. Since cellulose synthase (CESA) gene was first identified, several dozen CESA mutants have been reported, but almost all mutants exhibit the defective phenotypes in plant growth and development. In this study, the rice (Oryza sativa) Osfc16 mutant with substitutions (W481C, P482S) at P‐CR conserved site in CESA9 shows a slightly affected plant growth and higher biomass yield by 25%–41% compared with wild type (Nipponbare, a japonica variety). Chemical and ultrastructural analyses indicate that Osfc16 has a significantly reduced cellulose crystallinity (CrI) and thinner secondary cell walls compared with wild type. CESA co‐IP detection, together with implementations of a proteasome inhibitor (MG132) and two distinct cellulose inhibitors (Calcofluor, CGA), shows that CESA9 mutation could affect integrity of CESA4/7/9 complexes, which may lead to rapid CESA proteasome degradation for low‐DP cellulose biosynthesis. These may reduce cellulose CrI, which improves plant lodging resistance, a major and integrated agronomic trait on plant growth and grain production, and enhances biomass enzymatic saccharification by up to 2.3‐fold and ethanol productivity by 34%–42%. This study has for the first time reported a direct modification for the low‐DP cellulose production that has broad applications in biomass industries.
Differential response of Scots pine seedlings to variable intensity and ratio of red and far‐red light
Authors: Razzak Abdur , Ranade Sonali Sachin , Strand Åsa , García‐Gil M. R.
Published: January 2017

We investigated the response to increasing intensity of red (R) and far‐R (FR) light and to a decrease in R:FR ratio inPinus sylvestrisL. (Scots pine) seedling. The results showed that FR high‐irradiance response for hypocotyl elongation may be present in Scots pine and that this response is enhanced by increasing light intensity. However, both hypocotyl inhibition and pigment accumulation were more strongly affected by the R light compared with FR light. This is in contrast to previous reports inArabidopsis thaliana(L.) Heynh. In the angiosperm,A. thalianaR light shows an overall milder effect on inhibition of hypocotyl elongation and on pigment biosynthesis compared with FR suggesting conifers and angiosperms respond very differently to the different light regimes. Scots pine shade avoidance syndrome with longer hypocotyls, shorter cotyledons and lower chlorophyll content in response to shade conditions resembles the response observed inA. thaliana. However, anthocyanin accumulation increased with shade in Scots pine, which again differs from what is known in angiosperms. Overall, the response of seedling development and physiology to R and FR light in Scots pine indicates that the regulatory mechanism for light response may differ between gymnosperms and angiosperms.