bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Should the cut‐off values of the lymphocyte to monocyte ratio for prediction of prognosis in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma be changed in elderly patients?
Authors: Koh Young Wha , Park Chan‐Sik , Yoon Dok Hyun , Suh Cheolwon , Huh Jooryung
Published: April 2014

Objectives

A recent study suggested a prognostic role for the peripheral blood absolute lymphocyte/monocyte ratio (LMR) at diagnosis of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Here, we investigated the significance of LMR in DLBCL patients in relation to advanced age.

Methods

We examined the prognostic impact of LMR in 603 DLBCL treated with rituximab plus CHOP, using the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis for optimal cut‐off values, and performed a subgroup analysis according to age.

Results

In elderly groups (age ≥ 70), absolute monocyte count was significantly increased, whereas LMR was significantly decreased compared to younger groups. Patients under 70 yr of age with LMR <3.04 had significantly lower overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) compared to those with LMR ≥3.04 (P < 0.001 for both). However, in elderly patients (age ≥ 70), there was no significant difference in OS between patients' LMR levels using the 3.04 cut‐off value (P = 0.059). Therefore, a new LMR cut‐off value of 2.36 was selected in elderly patients, having observed that elderly patients with LMR <2.36 had significantly lower OS compared to those with LMR ≥2.36 (P = 0.021). In multivariate analysis, LMR remained a significant prognostic factor for OS (P = 0.004) or PFS (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

We suggest the use of a different cut‐off value of LMR in elderly patients to distinguish high‐risk from low‐risk groups.
Impact of risk score calculations in choosing front‐line tyrosine kinase inhibitors for patients with newly diagnosed chronic myeloid leukemia in the chronic phase
Authors: Hu Bei , Savani Bipin N.
Published: April 2014

The approval of multiple tyrosine kinase inhibitors targeting BCR‐ABL has broadened the number of available therapeutic options for chronic myeloid leukemia in the chronic phase (CML‐CP). This provides an impetus for optimizing prognostic risk score systems that can guide treatment decisions. Presently, three risk scores—the Sokal, Hasford, and European Treatment and Outcome Study (EUTOS) metrics—have been implemented clinically in CML‐CP. While these three formulations all endeavor to gauge likely disease course, they differ from one another in several important respects, with potential implications for prognosis and therapy. Here, we review these risk scores and propose how prognostic systems in CML‐CP might be refined to direct patients to optimally effective therapies as efficiently and accurately as possible.
Atypical presentation of ‘acalculous cholecystitis’ with marked isolated hyperbilirubinaemia in patients treated for haematological malignancies
Authors: Berrevoets Marvin A.H. , Hermans John J. , Wanten Geert J.A. , van der Velden Walter J.F.M.
Published: April 2014

Four patients diagnosed with haematological malignancies developed an isolated hyperbilirubinaemia following cytarabine‐ and anthracycline‐based chemotherapy. The clinical picture was consistent with acalculous cholecystitis, but ultrasonography did not show the typical gallbladder wall thickening. All patients suffered from severe mucositis with neutropenic enterocolitis. We hypothesise that damage of the mucosa of the gallbladder induced by chemotherapy results in hyperpermeability of the mucosal barrier with bile leakage and isolated hyperbilirubinaemia.
Clinical activity of ponatinib in one patient with chronic myeloid leukemia in chronic phase with e19a2 transcript and T315I mutation
Authors: Ferri Cristian A. , Bianchini Michele , Bengió Raquel M. , Moiraghi Elena B. , Gonzalez Mariana S. , Noriega María F. , Larripa Irene B.
Published: April 2014

Background

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a hematological disorder that in rare cases, mainly in CML neutrophilic, presents the e19a2 rearrangement. The encoded product is a 230‐KDa protein. Despite the remarkable responses to treatment of most patients, a small but significant fraction of them develop clinical resistance to the tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). The most common mechanism of resistance is point mutations in the ABL1 kinase domain. The recently approved third‐generation TKI ponatinib demonstrated remarkable activity in patients with multi‐TKI‐resistant disease. Particularly impressive was its efficacy in patients with T315I mutation that is resistant to all other TKIs.

Methods

Qualitative PCR was carried out by multiplex approach. Relative transcripts quantification was performed by one‐step real‐time PCR, with a specific Taqman probe and primers for the e19a2 rearrangement. We carried out a mutational screening by high‐resolution melting, and the mutation was identified by Sanger method. The mutation burden was quantified by quantitative PCR using allele‐specific primers.

Results

In a patient with CML, we identified a PCR product corresponding to e19a2 rearrangement harboring T315I mutation. At the time of mutational analysis, during dasatinib treatment, the T315I clone was 100% and the quantification of BCR‐ABL1 was 18%. After ponatinib therapy, the T315I mutation burden decreased down to undetectable levels and the BCR‐ABL1 transcripts showed a very low value (0.011%).

Conclusions

Here, we report the hematological, cytogenetic, and molecular response of a patient with refractory CML in chronic phase with e19a2 transcripts, carrying T315I mutation that was successfully treated with ponatinib.
Experimental slab salvage and reinstatement after pipeline construction in a threatened grassland community
Authors: Jellie Zoe V. , Wills Timothy J. , Kutt Alex S. , Hemming Victoria L. , King Drew J. , McKenzie Vanessa J. , Retallick Richard W. R. , Timewell Christopher A. , van Eeden Lily
Published: April 2014

The protection and management of grasslands is a priority to conserve biodiversity, particularly in fragmented landscapes subject to human‐induced disturbance. We examined the success of salvage and reinstatement of multiple 90 m2slabs of modified temperate grassland in a pipeline construction corridor in south‐eastern Australia and compared it with a reinstated topsoil treatment (i.e. standard pipeline reinstatement practice) and an undisturbed control. Thirty‐six plots (each 9 × 10 m) representing the three treatments were monitored across six locations, pre‐ and postconstruction every 3 months for 2 years. We sampled 18 vegetation/habitat variables to examine the effect of treatments over time. Introduced grass cover was consistently higher than native grasses for both treatments, and the cover of introduced grasses increased over time in both treatments. Conversely, control plots had considerably higher native grass cover than the slab and reinstated topsoil treatments. Native species richness was not negatively affected by the slab reinstatement process. Our results suggest that in this instance, slab replacement was an ineffective way to reinstate native grasslands, as it appeared to confer minimal benefit when compared to the standard practice of reinstating topsoil. This was most likely due to the high degree of disturbance to slabs during the reinstatement process.
Population differentiation of zander (Sander lucioperca) across native and newly colonized ranges suggests increasing admixture in the course of an invasion
Authors: Eschbach Erik , Nolte Arne W. , Kohlmann Klaus , Kersten Petra , Kail Jochem , Arlinghaus Robert
Published: April 2014

In addition to ecological factors, evolutionary processes can determine the invasion success of a species. In particular, genetic admixture has the potential to induce rapid evolutionary change, which can result from natural or human‐assisted secondary contact between differentiated populations. We studied the recent range expansion of zander in Germany focusing on the interplay between invasion and genetic admixture. Historically, the rivers Elbe and Danube harboured the most north‐western source populations from which a north‐westward range expansion occurred. This was initiated by introducing zander outside its native range into rivers and lakes, and was fostered by migration through artificial canals and stocking from various sources. We analysed zander populations of the native and invaded ranges using nuclear and mitochondrial genetic markers. Three genetic lineages were identified, which were traced to ancestral ranges. Increased genetic diversity and admixture in the invaded region highlighted asymmetric gene flow towards this area. We suppose that the adaptive potential of the invading populations was promoted by genetic admixture, whereas competitive exclusion in the native areas provided a buffer against introgression by novel genotypes. These explanations would be in line with evidence that hybridization can drive evolutionary change under conditions when new niches can be exploited.
A comparison of three doses of omeprazole in the treatment of equine gastric ulcer syndrome: A blinded, randomised, dose–response clinical trial
Authors: Sykes B. W. , Sykes K. M. , Hallowell G. D.
Published: April 2014

Reasons for performing the study

A previous study demonstrated that a dose effect between 1.6 and 4.0 mg/kg bwt of omeprazoleper oss.i.d. is present in the treatment of equine gastric ulceration. In the same study, healing of glandular ulceration appeared inferior to healing of squamous ulceration. However, several limitations were recognised in that study and further investigation is warranted.

Objectives

To further investigate the presence of a dose relationship in the treatment of gastric ulceration under conditions that may favour omeprazole efficacy such as administration prior to exercise and after a brief fast, and potential differences between the response of squamous and glandular ulceration to omeprazole therapy.

Study design

A blinded, randomised, dose–response clinical trial.

Methods

SixtyThoroughbred racehorses withgrade≥2/4squamous and/or glandular ulceration were identified by gastroscopy. Horses were randomly assigned to receive either 1.0, 2.0 or 4.0 mg/kg bwt of enteric coated omeprazoleper oss.i.d. 1–4 h prior to exercise. Gastroscopy was repeated at approximately 28 days.

Results

The lower doses studied (1.0 and 2.0 mg/kg bwt) were noninferior to the reference dose (4.0 mg/kg bwt) in the treatment of squamous ulceration. Healing was greater in squamous ulceration than glandular ulceration (86% vs. 14%; P<0.0001). Improvement in ulcer grade was more likely in squamous lesions than glandular lesions (96% vs. 34%; P<0.0001). Worsening of the glandular ulcer grade was observed in 36% of horses.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that, under the conditions studied, where omeprazole is administered before exercise and following a brief fast, doses of omeprazole as low as 1 mg/kg bwtper oss.i.d. may be as effective as higher doses. The proportion of glandular ulceration that heals with 28 days of omeprazole therapy is less than that of squamous ulceration.
Quantifying fish species richness and abundance in Amazonian streams: assessment of a multiple gear method suitable for Terra firme stream fish assemblages
Authors: Mojica J. I. , Lobón‐Cerviá J. , Castellanos C.
Published: April 2014

A multigear sampling method to quantify fish richness and abundance in Amazonian Terra firme streams was assessed. This method is based on the four‐pass removal method using the combined application of different nets. The efficiency of the method was explored over 10 replicated sites along three streams over day, night and seasons. Use of four successive passes allowed both abundant and rare species to be collected and the abundance of common species to be estimated. On average, a high proportion (41%) of rare species was collected per sample (only one or two individuals) after four fishing passes. The efficiency of the sampling method to detect species richness per sample between successive passes was estimated using an autosimilarity approach. Although species richness and abundance increased with successive passes, no major differences were obtained between the third and fourth pass. A single pass considerably underestimated the richness and abundance of species in these type of streams, and night sampling also increased beta‐diversity by at least 20%. Abundance estimates demonstrated high efficiency with an overall sampling error of only 8 and 11% for samples and single species, respectively. Capture efficiency differed among fish species exhibiting different ecological traits and showed significant differences among seasons for total samples. Results supported the robustness of the method and its suitability to quantify fish richness and abundance in small, wadeable Amazonian Terra firme streams inhabited by highly diverse fish assemblages.
Epidemiological aspects of inhibitor development redefine the clinical importance of inhibitors
Authors: van den Berg H. M.
Published: April 2014

Inhibitor development is a serious complication of treatment with coagulation products. Presently, 25–30% of all newly diagnosed patients with severe haemophilia A are diagnosed with inhibitors. An increasing number of genetic and non‐genetic risk factors have been reported to be involved, although the impact of them in understanding the aetiology is still limited. Much attention has been focused on factor VIII products, but more recent studies show very little, if any, difference between class plasma and recombinant factor VIII products. More intensive treatment and higher dosing are probably more important factors. More than 10% of the inhibitors diagnosed in the last decade are of low titre. A first goal should be to understand their importance. It is argued that the impact of different risk factors should be studied in high‐titre inhibitors to prevent dilution by non‐significant low‐titre inhibitors.
Laboratory testing for factor inhibitors
Authors: Favaloro E. J. , Verbruggen B. , Miller C. H.
Published: April 2014

Inhibitor assays are performed when patients present with unexplained prolonged routine coagulation test times and unexpected and/or unusual bleeding (potential for acquired haemophilia) as well as being a part of normal congenital haemophilia management and monitoring, particularly when bleeding occurs on therapy, or when increments in factor levels post‐factor replacement remain lower than expected. In this article, we will describe the assays used, as well as their development, pitfalls in testing such as inter‐laboratory variability and false negative/positive results, as well as some strategies for overcoming these pitfalls and potential alternative test approaches. The inter‐laboratory coefficient of variation often approaches (and sometimes exceeds) 50%, as evidenced by various external quality assessment groups, and this variability has not improved over recent years. Additional important considerations include appropriate interpretation of test results, repeat testing for confirmation, and assessment of recovery as part of the diagnostic process.
Laboratory aspects of von Willebrand disease: test repertoire and options for activity assays and genetic analysis
Authors: Castaman G. , Hillarp A. , Goodeve A.
Published: April 2014

The deficiency or abnormal function of von Willebrand factor (VWF) causes von Willebrand disease (VWD), the most frequent inherited bleeding disorder. The laboratory diagnosis of VWD can be difficult as the disease is heterogeneous and an array of assays is required to describe the phenotype. Basic classification of quantitative (type 1 and 3) and qualitative (type 2) VWD variants requires determination of VWF antigenic (VWF:Ag) levels and assaying of VWF ristocetin cofactor (VWF:RCo) activity, determining the capacity of VWF to interact with the platelet GPIb‐receptor. Knowing the VWF:RCo activity is essential for identifying, subtyping and monitoring VWD, but the assay is poorly standardized and many protocols do not fulfil the clinical need in all situations. This has led to the development of novel activity assays, independent of ristocetin, with enhanced assay characteristics. Results from the first independent clinical evaluations are promising, showing that they are reliable and suitable for VWD diagnosis. The qualitative type 2 VWF deficiency can be further divided into four different subtypes (A, B, M and N) using specific assays that explore other activities or the size distribution of VWF multimers. These methods are discussed herein. However, in a number of patients it may be difficult to correctly classify the VWD phenotype and genetic analysis may provide the best option to clarify the disorder, through mutation identification.
von Willebrand disease and platelet disorders
Authors: Favaloro E. J. , Bodó I. , Israels S. J. , Brown S. A.
Published: April 2014

The diagnosis and management of bleeding disorders is made difficult by the complexity and variety of disorders, clinical symptoms and bleeding type and severity. von Willebrand disease (VWD) and platelet disorders are disorders of primary haemostasis and together represent the most common inherited bleeding disorders. In this article, we describe the diagnosis of VWD and platelet disorders and the treatment options for VWD.
Sequential immunohistochemistry: a promising new tool for the pathology laboratory
Authors: van den Brand Michiel , Hoevenaars Brigiet M , Sigmans Jessica H M , Meijer Jos W R , van Cleef Patricia H J , Groenen Patricia J T A , Hebeda Konnie M , van Krieken J Han J M
Published: April 2014

Aims

Current immunohistochemical methods to study the expression of multiple proteins in a single tissue section suffer from several limitations. In this article, we report on sequential immunohistochemistry (S‐IHC), a novel, easy method that allows the study of numerous proteins in a single tissue section, while requiring very limited optimization.

Methods and results

In S‐IHC, a tissue section is stained for multiple antibodies, with intermediate scanning of the section and elution of chromogen and antibodies. Overlays are made of the digital images, allowing assessment of multiple proteins in the same tissue section. We used S‐IHC to study nine nodular lymphocyte‐predominant Hodgkin lymphomas (NLPHLs) and 10 T‐cell‐rich and histiocyte‐rich diffuse large B‐cell lymphomas (T/HRBCLs) for expression of cyclin D1, CD20, and CD68. We observed cyclin D1 expression in single tumour cells in 44% of NLPHLs and 60% of T/HRBCLs. Comparison of S‐IHC with classic single immunohistochemical staining revealed discrepancies in eight cases (42%), demonstrating the difficulty of differentiating tumour cells from histiocytes on morphological grounds, and stressing the additional value of S‐IHC.

Conclusions

For research and diagnostic purposes, S‐IHC is a promising technique that assesses the expression of numerous proteins in single tissue sections with complete architectural information, allowing phenotypic characterization of single cells.
‘Neuroendocrine’ middle ear adenomas: consistent expression of the transcription factor ISL1 further supports their neuroendocrine derivation
Authors: Agaimy Abbas , Lell Michael , Schaller Tina , Märkl Bruno , Hornung Joachim
Published: April 2014

Aims

Neuroendocrine middle ear adenoma (MEA) is a rare epithelial neoplasm of uncertain histogenesis that frequently shows neuroendocrine features. To date, <120 cases have been reported. The aims of the current study were to describe our experience with neuroendocrine MEA, to assess the frequency of specific neuroendocrine differentiation, and to test these lesions for transcription factors known to be expressed in a variety of other neuroendocrine tumours.

Methods and results

We investigated six cases of neuroendocrine MEA, and stained them, for the first time, for the transcription factors CDX2, TTF1, PAX8, and ISL1 (islet‐1). The patients were four men and two women (mean age, 39 years; range, 27–53 years). Two of four patients with extended follow‐up (4.5–22 years) experienced recurrence at 92 months, and at 9 and 22 years, respectively. One case extending into the external ear coexisted with cholesteatoma. Histological examination showed trabecular, solid, acinar, glandular, cribriform, organoid, nested, diffuse non‐cohesive plasmacytoid and pseudoalveolar patterns in varying combinations. Immunohistochemistry showed consistent expression of vimentin (4/4), pancytokeratin (6/6), synaptophysin (6/6), CD56 (4/4), and ISL1 (6/6). A CK7 antibody stained scattered cells in two of five cases. The myoepithelial markers and transcription factors TTF1, CDX2 or PAX8 were not expressed in any of the cases.

Conclusions

Middle ear adenoma is an indolent, locally recurring, but generally non‐metastasizing neoplasm with uniform expression of synaptophysin and ISL1, indicating true neuroendocrine differentiation. Because of its highly varied cellular and architectural appearance, MEA should be distinguished from tympanic paraganglioma and a variety of rare benign and malignant lesions at this site.
Polymorphisms of inflammation‐related genes and colorectal cancer risk: a population‐based case–control study in China
Authors: Yu Y. , Zheng S. , Zhang S. , Jin W. , Liu H. , Jin M. , Chen Z. , Ding Z. , Wang L. , Chen K.
Published: April 2014

The previous studies found that chronic inflammation related to an increased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). This study aims to explore the associations of polymorphisms in inflammation‐related genes (IL10, IL10RA, IL6R, TNFRSF1A, TNFRSF1B, LTA and IL4) and their interactions with the risk of colorectal cancer among Chinese population. A population‐based case–control study including 299 cases and 296 controls was conducted from January 2001 to December 2009. Multivariate unconditional logistic regression was used to analyse the association of nine SNPs in inflammation‐related genes with the risk of CRC, colon cancer and rectal cancer, respectively. Generalized multifactor dimensionality reduction (GMDR) was implemented to explore the gene–gene interactions among all SNPs on CRC. A decreased risk of colorectal cancer in subjects with rs1800872 AC genotype of IL10 (OR = 0.643, 95%CI = 0.453, 0.912) or AC/CC genotype (OR = 0.636, 95%CI = 0.457, 0.885) was observed, compared with those with AA genotype. Meanwhile, similar associations were observed between rs1800872 and rectal cancer. Additionally, in rs1061624 of TNFRSF1B gene, AG genotype (OR=0.566; 95% CI= 0.362, 0.885) and AG/GG genotype (OR=0.638; 95% CI=0.420, 0.971) were significantly associated with a decreased risk of rectal cancer, respectively. Our findings indicated that mutants in IL10 and TNFRSF1B genes may change the CRC risk. However, there is no interaction between inflammation‐related genes on CRC risk.
Association of erosion with timing of detection and selected risk factors in primary dentition: a longitudinal study
Authors: Huang Linda L. , Leishman Shaneen , Newman Bruce , Seow W. Kim
Published: April 2014

Objective

The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of erosion in a birth cohort at 24, 36, and 48 months and to investigate risk factors for erosion.

Methods

One hundred and fifty‐four children from a birth cohort were followed at 24, 36, and 48 months of age.

Results

Of the 154 children examined, 0% (0/154), 7% (11/154), and 28% (40/154) had erosion detected for the first time at 24, 36, and 48 months, respectively (P < 0.001). A cumulative total of 51 (33%) children and 256 (8%) teeth had erosion by the age of 48 months. There were no significant associations between erosive lesions first detected at 36 months and oral hygiene behaviour, medical conditions, or dietary habits reported at the 24‐ or 36‐month examinations (all P > 0.05). In contrast, erosive lesion first detected at 48 months was positively associated with the use of a feeding bottle reported at the 36‐month examination (P = 0.026).

Conclusions

The prevalence of dental erosion in young children increased with age, with clinically detectable lesions forming between 24 and 36 months of age. Erosive lesions first detected at 48 months were positively associated with the use of a feeding bottle reported at 36 months.
The peritrophic membrane of the gastropod Megathura crenulata: structure, composition, and site of formation
Authors: Valk Jacob , Schindelman Gary , Martin Gary G.
Published: April 2014

Peritrophic membranes (PMs) are acellular layered structures secreted around ingested materials by the gut epithelium. Most studies on PMs have focused on those of insects and crustaceans due to their potential ability to block the movement of pathogens from ingested materials into the body, and their possible use as unique targets relevant to pest management. While PMs are known to occur in other taxa, their distribution is spotty and little is known about their role in these other species. The gastropod Megathura crenulata produces a true PM, which has a chitinous matrix that makes up nearly half its wet weight. Unlike arthropod PMs, which are released by delamination from the microvilli of their gut cells, the chitinous matrix of the M. crenulata PM is secreted from epithelial cells lining most regions of its gut. Although its mode of synthesis is unique, it may serve the same functions as proposed for other PMs, including regulating diffusion, binding metabolites, restricting protease activity, blocking pathogens, and providing lubrication. In arthropods, numerous proteins with chitin‐binding specificities have been identified, consistent with the proposed functions. Analysis of PMs in M. crenulata showed several integral proteins associated with the membrane, suggesting that the PM in this mollusc may be involved in complex functions like those seen in the arthropods.
Fatigue Life of Bioactive Titanium Dental Implants Treated by Means of Grit‐Blasting and Thermo‐Chemical Treatment
Authors: Gil F. Javier , Espinar Eduardo , Llamas Jose Maria , Sevilla Pablo
Published: April 2014

Objective: This study focuses on the fatigue behavior of titanium dental implants as‐received, with a grit‐blasted surface and with a new bioactive surface treatment (2Steps).

Background: The 2Step process consists of (1) an initial grit‐blasting process to produce a micro‐rough surface, followed by (2) a combined thermo‐chemical treatment that produces a potentially bioactive surface, that is, that can form an apatitic layer when exposed to biomimetic conditions in vitro. The 2Step treatment produced micro‐rough and apatitic coating implants.

Methods: Residual stresses were determined by means of X‐ray diffraction. The fatigue tests were carried out at 37°C on 500 dental implants, and the S‐N curve was determined. The fatigue‐crack nucleation for the different treatments was analyzed.

Results: The fatigue tests show that the grit‐blasting process improves the fatigue life. This is a consequence of the layer of compressive residual stresses that the treatment generates in titanium surfaces. Dental implants that had its surfaced prepared with the 2Step procedure (grit‐blasting and thermo‐chemical treatment) had its fatigue life decreased by 10% due to the incorporation of oxygen to the surface and the relaxation of the compressive residual stress produced by the heat treatment.

Conclusions: Thermo‐chemical treatment is an excellent compromise between the improvement of bioactive and mechanical long‐life behaviors.
Effects of Olmesartan‐Based Treatment on Masked, White‐Coat, Poorly Controlled, and Well‐Controlled Hypertension: HONEST Study
Authors: Kario Kazuomi , Saito Ikuo , Kushiro Toshio , Teramukai Satoshi , Ishikawa Yusuke , Kobayashi Fumiaki , Shimada Kazuyuki
Published: April 2014

The authors examined the effects of olmesartan‐based treatment on clinic systolic blood pressure (CSBP) and morning home systolic blood pressure (HSBP) in 21,340 patients with masked hypertension (MH), white‐coat hypertension (WCH), poorly controlled hypertension (PCH), and well‐controlled hypertension (CH) using data from the Home Blood Pressure Measurement With Olmesartan Naive Patients to Establish Standard Target Blood Pressure (HONEST) study. MH, WCH, PCH, and CH were defined using CSBP 140 mm Hg and MHSBP 135 mm Hg as cutoff values at baseline. At 16 weeks, the MH, WCH, PCH, and CH groups had changes in CSBP by −1.0, −15.2, −23.1, and 1.8 mm Hg, and changes in morning HSBP by −12.5, 1.0, −20.3, and 2.0 mm Hg, respectively. In conclusion, in “real‐world” clinical practice, olmesartan‐based treatment decreased high morning HBP or CBP without excessive decreases in normal morning HBP or CBP according to patients' BP status.
Treatment of periodontal‐endodontic lesions – a systematic review
Authors: Schmidt Julia C. , Walter Clemens , Amato Mauro , Weiger Roland
Published: April 2014

Background

The treatment of periodontal‐endodontic lesions is challenging due to the involvement of both periodontal and endodontic tissues.

Objective

To evaluate the treatment options and outcomes of periodontal‐endodontic lesions.

Material and Methods

A systematic literature search was performed for articles published by 12 May 2013 using electronic databases and hand search. Two reviewers conducted the study selection, data collection and validity assessment. The PRISMA criteria were applied. From 1087 titles identified by the search strategy, five studies and 18 case reports were included.

Results

Clinical studies and case reports were published from the years 1981 to 2012. A pronounced heterogeneity exists among studies regarding applied treatment protocols and quality of reporting. In all clinical studies, comprising 111 teeth, a non‐surgical root canal treatment (RCT) was performed as initial treatment step. Non‐surgical and/or a surgical periodontal therapy was applied in some studies without re‐evaluation of the endodontic healing. Probing pocket depth reductions were reported in all included studies, comprising the data from 80 teeth at follow‐up.

Conclusions

A sequential treatment with root canal treatment as a first treatment step appears to be reasonable. An adequate time for tissue healing is suggested prior to re‐evaluation.
Evaluating multiple approaches for managing western corn rootworm larvae with seed blends
Authors: Tinsley N. A. , Estes R. E. , Schrader P. M. , Gray M. E.
Published: April 2014

Corn rootworm, Diabrotica spp., larvae represent a significant and widespread economic threat to corn, Zea mays (L.), production in the United States, where control costs and yield losses associated with these insect pests exceed $1 billion annually. Preventing root injury and associated yield loss caused by corn rootworm larvae may be accomplished by the independent use of planting time soil insecticides or transgenic Bt hybrids. However, recent reports of both confirmed and suspected Bt resistance in corn rootworm populations throughout the Corn Belt have led to significant interest in the use of these two management tactics simultaneously. Although this approach has been investigated to some extent previously, information is lacking on how the use of a soil insecticide in tandem with a Bt seed blend—Bt and refuge (non‐Bt) seed mixed into a single product—may affect root protection and yield. We describe an experiment including six trial sites conducted over a three‐year period where various seed blends and soil insecticide/seed blend combinations were evaluated. The predominant species contributing to root injury across all sites was the western corn rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte). A weighted technique is presented for evaluating root injury for seed blends that offers a reliable estimate of product performance. The addition of a soil insecticide to the seed blend treatments never resulted in significantly improved root protection and failed to provide a consistent yield benefit. Our results suggest that a soil insecticide/seed blend combination approach is not warranted. Additionally, a subanalysis performed on individual refuge and nearby Bt root systems for seed blend treatments provides insight into the spatial characteristics of root injury in seed blend scenarios.
Postoperative Sensitivity with Indirect Restorations
Authors: Farias David , Walter Ricardo , Swift Edward J.
Published: April 2014

Postoperative sensitivity is characterized by short and sharp pain, and often experienced after cementation of indirect restorations. Factors associated with the occurrence of post‐cementation sensitivity include type of cement, removal of smear layer by acid‐etching, aggressive tooth preparation, inadequate provisional restorations, and patient's age. Its prevention is based on either interfering with mechanoreceptor activity or occluding the dentinal tubules. Regarding the latter, application of dentin desensitizers may be effective for blocking the tubules and significantly reducing dentin permeability and consequently postoperative sensitivity. This Critical Appraisal will present available clinical data where traditional materials such as zinc phosphate and glass ionomer cements (GIC) as well as self‐adhesive resin‐based cements were used.
The evolution of zircon during low‐P partial melting of metapelitic rocks: theoretical predictions and a case study from Mt Stafford, central Australia
Authors: Wang WEI‐(RZ) , Dunkley E. , Clarke G. L. , Daczko N. R.
Published: April 2014

Palaeoproterozoic metasedimentary migmatite reflects the highest temperature parts of a regional aureole at Mt Stafford, central Australia, comprising rocks that experienced 500–800 °C at ≈3 kbar. Whole‐rock major element concentrations are correlated with Zr content, psammitic compositions having nearly twice the Zr content of pelitic compositions. Zirconium is concentrated in mesosome compared with leucosome. Zircon is largely detrital, mostly lacking any overgrowth contemporary with migmatite formation. Comparatively small proportions of micro‐zircon (<10 μm) in sub‐solidus rocks are mostly hosted by quartz and plagioclase. Much higher proportions (three to five times) of micro‐zircon in migmatite are hosted by prograde K‐feldspar, cordierite and biotite. T–X and P–T NCKFMASHTZr pseudosections constructed using thermocalc model the distribution of Zr between solid and silicate liquid phases. Half of the detrital zircon (~100 ppm Zr) is predicted to be dissolved into silicate liquid at ≈800 °C and all dissolved by 850 °C, if all zircon is involved in the equilibration volume. Melt segregation at relatively low temperature is predicted to enrich the residuum in Zr, consistent with the observed distribution of Zr between mesosome and leucosome. The limited development of metamorphic zircon rims or overgrowths at Mt Stafford is explained by three concurrent processes: (i) Zr liberated during prograde metamorphism formed micro‐zircon, rather than following the prediction that Zr will partition into silicate liquid; (ii) some detrital zircon was probably armoured by other rock‐forming minerals, reducing Zr content in the effective bulk rock composition; and (iii) small proportions of melt loss during migmatization removed Zr that otherwise would have been available to form metamorphic rims.
Cytokeratin expression of engrafted three‐dimensional culture tissues using epithelial cells derived from porcine periodontal ligaments
Authors: Yamada Rie , Kitajima Kayoko , Arai Kyoko , Igarashi Masaru
Published: April 2014

Objective

This study investigated the differentiation and proliferation of epithelial cells derived from periodontal ligaments after three‐dimensional culture using collagen gel with fibroblasts in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

Epithelial cells and fibroblasts were derived from porcine periodontal ligaments. Epithelial cells were labeled using a fluorescent red membrane marker (PKH‐26GL) and were seeded onto collagen gel with fibroblasts, followed by incubation in an air–liquid interface for 7 days. Three‐dimensional cultures were grafted onto the backs of nude mice and removed at 1, 7, and 14 days after surgery (in vivo model). Unfixed sections (5 μm) were used to detect the presence of red fluorescent cells. Paraffin sections were analyzed histologically and immunohistochemically. Specimens were compared with three‐dimensional culture tissues at 8, 14 and 21 days (in vitro model).

Results

Grafted three‐dimensional cultures formed a stratified epithelial structure similar to skin in vivo. Epithelial cells were sequenced in basal‐layer‐like structures at 14 days in vivo. Immunohistochemical findings showed that the expression of cytokeratin was detected in the epithelial layer in in vitro and in vivo models. Ck8 + 18 + 19 was expressed in the upper epithelial layer in the in vitro model at 14 and 21 days, but not in vivo. Involucrin was expressed in the certified layers in vitro at 14 days, but not in vivo. Laminin was detected at the dermo‐epidermal junction in vivo at 7 and 14 days, but not in vitro.

Conclusion

These results suggest that differentiation of three‐dimensional culture tissues differs in vivo and in vitro.
Smokeless tobacco increases aneuploidy in oral HPV16 E6/E7‐transformed keratinocytes in vitro
Authors: Merne Marina , Rautava Jaana , Ruutu Merja , Syrjänen Stina
Published: April 2014

Background

The scope of this work was to study synergism between human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and tobacco in vitro, both known to be independent risk factors for oral cancer.

Methods

HPV‐positive and HPV‐negative oral keratinocytes and oral HPV‐negative fibroblasts were exposed to smokeless tobacco extract (STE) prepared from the Scandinavian (STE1) and US‐type (STE2) snuff. Cell cycle profiles were determined with flow cytometry, and HPV E6/E7 mRNA expression in HPV‐positive cells was assayed using RT‐qPCR.

Results

The exposure of HPV‐positive keratinocytes with STE2 increased the number of aneuploid cells from 27% to 80% of which 44% were in S‐phase, while none of the diploid cells were in S‐phase. The changes after STE1 exposure were less than seen after STE2: from 27% to 31% of which 34% were in S‐phase. STE had no effect on HPV16 E6/E7 expression in HPV‐positive keratinocytes. In oral spontaneously transformed, HPV‐negative keratinocytes, the number of aneuploid cells at G2‐M stage increased after STE1 and STE2 exposure from 3% to 9% and 7%, respectively. In HPV‐negative oral fibroblasts, the number of cells at G2‐M phase increased from 11% to 21% after STE1 and 29% after STE2 exposure.

Conclusions

The effect of STE varied in the cell lines studied. STE2 increased significantly the proportion of aneuploid cells in HPV‐positive oral keratinocytes, but not HPV16 E6/E7 expression. This indicates that tobacco products may enhance the effects of HPV 16 and the risk of DNA aneuploidy increasing risk to malignant transformation.
Correlates of Female Sexual Functioning: Adult Attachment and Differentiation of Self
Authors: Burri Andrea , Schweitzer Robert , O'Brien Jessica
Published: April 2014

Introduction

Female sexual functioning is affected by a range of factors including motivation, psychological well-being, and relationship issues. In understanding female sexual dysfunction (FSD), there has been a tendency to privilege diagnostic and medical over relationship issues.

Aim

To investigate the association between women's experience of intimacy in close relationships—operationalized in terms of attachment and degree of differentiation of self—and FSD.

Methods

Two hundred thirty sexually active Australian women responded to an invitation to complete a set of validated scales to assess potential correlates of sexual functioning.

Main Outcome Measures

The Female Sexuality Function Index, the Experiences in Close Relationships Scale, the Differentiation of Self Inventory, as well as a set of study-specific questions were subject to hierarchical multiple regression analyses.

Results

Relational variables of attachment avoidance and to a lesser degree, attachment anxiety were associated with FSD. Participants with lower levels of differentiation of self were more likely to report sexual difficulties. The inability to maintain a sense of self in the presence of intimate others was the strongest predictors of sexual problems. A history of sexual abuse in adulthood and higher levels of psychological distress were also associated with sexual difficulties.

Conclusions

The findings provide support for a relational understanding of female sexual functioning. Attachment avoidance, attachment anxiety, and degree of differentiation of self are shown to be associated with sexual difficulties. The findings support the need to focus on relational and psychological factors in women's experience of sex.
Mathematical contributions to link biota with environment
Authors: Cerdeira J.O. , Monteiro‐Henriques T. , Martins M.J. , Silva P.C. , Alagador D. , Franco A.M.A.
Published: April 2014

Hutchinson's pioneering work on the niche concept, dating from 1957, inspired the development of many ecological models. The first proposals, BIOCLIM and HABITAT, were simple geometric approximations to the shape of the niche. Despite their simplicity, they combine two features that make them adequate for the purpose of exploring the niche: they fit a predefined shape to the empirical data; and produce binary or ordinal predictions rather than continuous predictions. Thus, both explicitly delineate a precise boundary for the niche. However, the two methods present some limitations: BIOCLIM assumes that the variables are independent in their action on the species; and HABITAT, although not having that limitation, only delineates the boundaries of the niches without distinguishing levels of suitability for the species. We propose, discuss and illustrate: (1) the use of depth functions to identify regions with distinct suitability inside the niche; and (2) a general framework to assess overlap of the niches of two species, which can be applied to predictions from models that decompose the niche into a finite number of measurable regions.
Adults’ and 8‐Year‐Olds’ Learning in a Foreign Word Repetition Task: Similar and Different
Authors: Service Elisabet , Yli‐Kaitala Hely , Maury Sini , Kim Jeong‐Young
Published: April 2014

Although the significance of age in second language acquisition is one of the most hotly debated issues in the field, very few studies have directly addressed age differences in the language learning process. The present study investigated learning in a foreign‐word repetition task. Young Finnish adults and 8‐year‐olds repeated back Korean words. Some words occurred once whereas others occurred five times. After the session, a surprise old/new recognition task was administered. Both groups’ repetition accuracy improved for recurring but not nonrecurring words. Latencies got shorter for all words. The groups were reliably able to recognize recurring but not nonrecurring words. However, the adults performed substantially better in this memory task with an explicit component. No advantages for children were detected.
Responding to literature through storytelling, artifacts and multigenre writing practices: explorations of cultures and self
Authors: Varga‐Dobai Kinga
Published: April 2014

This manuscript describes how innovative literacy practices such as multigenre writing and artifactual critical literacy have been used to tap into pre‐service teachers' cultural identities while responding to literature. In the process of responding to literature, personal experience is crucial; therefore, in this study, I focused on the relationship between that personal experience and cultural identity. The multigenre writings or artifact narratives of pre‐service teachers in response to realistic fiction books became extensions of those real‐life stories and provided information about the students' cultural background. Thus, the study also investigates the possibilities these new tools offer for intercultural learning.
Go forth, evolve and prosper: the genetic basis of adaptive evolution in an invasive species
Authors: Franks Steven J. , Munshi‐South Jason
Published: April 2014

Invasive species stand accused of a familiar litany of offences, including displacing native species, disrupting ecological processes and causing billions of dollars in ecological damage (Cox ). Despite these transgressions, invasive species have at least one redeeming virtue – they offer us an unparalleled opportunity to investigate colonization and responses of populations to novel conditions in the invaded habitat (Elton ; Sakai et al. ). Invasive species are by definition colonists that have arrived and thrived in a new location. How they are able to thrive is of great interest, especially considering a paradox of invasion (Sax & Brown ): if many populations are locally adapted (Leimu & Fischer ), how could species introduced into new locations become so successful? One possibility is that populations adjust to the new conditions through plasticity – increasing production of allelopathic compounds (novel weapons), or taking advantage of new prey, for example. Alternatively, evolution could play a role, with the populations adapting to the novel conditions of the new habitat. There is increasing evidence, based on phenotypic data, for rapid adaptive evolution in invasive species (Franks et al. ; Colautti & Barrett ; Sultan et al. ). Prior studies have also demonstrated genetic changes in introduced populations using neutral markers, which generally do not provide information on adaptation. Thus, the genetic basis of adaptive evolution in invasive species has largely remained unknown. In this issue of Molecular Ecology, Vandepitte et al. () provide some of the first evidence in invasive populations for molecular genetic changes directly linked to adaptation.
Large‐scale fungal diversity assessment in the Andean Yungas forests reveals strong community turnover among forest types along an altitudinal gradient
Authors: Geml József , Pastor Nicolás , Fernandez Lisandro , Pacheco Silvia , Semenova Tatiana A. , Becerra Alejandra G. , Wicaksono Christian Y. , Nouhra Eduardo R.
Published: April 2014

The Yungas, a system of tropical and subtropical montane forests on the eastern slopes of the Andes, are extremely diverse and severely threatened by anthropogenic pressure and climate change. Previous mycological works focused on macrofungi (e.g. agarics, polypores) and mycorrhizae in Alnus acuminata forests, while fungal diversity in other parts of the Yungas has remained mostly unexplored. We carried out Ion Torrent sequencing of ITS2 rDNA from soil samples taken at 24 sites along the entire latitudinal extent of the Yungas in Argentina. The sampled sites represent the three altitudinal forest types: the piedmont (400–700 m a.s.l.), montane (700–1500 m a.s.l.) and montane cloud (1500–3000 m a.s.l.) forests. The deep sequence data presented here (i.e. 4 108 126 quality‐filtered sequences) indicate that fungal community composition correlates most strongly with elevation, with many fungi showing preference for a certain altitudinal forest type. For example, ectomycorrhizal and root endophytic fungi were most diverse in the montane cloud forests, particularly at sites dominated by Alnus acuminata, while the diversity values of various saprobic groups were highest at lower elevations. Despite the strong altitudinal community turnover, fungal diversity was comparable across the different zonal forest types. Besides elevation, soil pH, N, P, and organic matter contents correlated with fungal community structure as well, although most of these variables were co‐correlated with elevation. Our data provide an unprecedented insight into the high diversity and spatial distribution of fungi in the Yungas forests.