bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antagonistic interactions between an invasive alien and a native coccinellid species may promote coexistence
Authors: Hentley William T. , Vanbergen Adam J. , Beckerman Andrew P. , Brien Melanie N. , Hails Rosemary S. , Jones T. Hefin , Johnson Scott N.
Published: March 2016

Despite the capacity of invasive alien species to alter ecosystems, the mechanisms underlying their impact remain only partly understood. Invasive alien predators, for example, can significantly disrupt recipient communities by consuming prey species or acting as an intraguild predator (IGP).

Behavioural interactions are key components of interspecific competition between predators, yet these are often overlooked invasion processes. Here, we show how behavioural, non‐lethal IGP interactions might facilitate the establishment success of an invading alien species.

We experimentally assessed changes in feeding behaviour (prey preference and consumption rate) of native UK coccinellid species (Adalia bipunctata and Coccinella septempunctata), whose populations are, respectively, declining and stable, when exposed to the invasive intraguild predator, Harmonia axyridis. Using a population dynamics model parameterized with these experimental data, we predicted how intraguild predation, accommodating interspecific behavioural interactions, might impact the abundance of the native and invasive alien species over time.

When competing for the same aphid resource, the feeding rate of A. bipunctata significantly increased compared to the feeding in isolation, while the feeding rate of H. axyridis significantly decreased. This suggests that despite significant declines in the UK, A. bipunctata is a superior competitor to the intraguild predator H. axyridis. In contrast, the behaviour of non‐declining C. septempunctata was unaltered by the presence of H. axyridis.

Our experimental data show the differential behavioural plasticity of competing native and invasive alien predators, but do not explain A. bipunctata declines observed in the UK. Using behavioural plasticity as a parameter in a population dynamic model for A. bipunctata and H. axyridis, coexistence is predicted between the native and invasive alien following an initial period of decline in the native species. We demonstrate how empirical and theoretical techniques can be combined to understand better the processes and consequences of alien species invasions for native biodiversity.
Two‐year effects and cost‐effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle training in mild pelvic organ prolapse: a randomised controlled trial in primary care
Authors: Panman CMCR , Wiegersma M , Kollen BJ , Berger MY , Lisman‐Van Leeuwen Y , Vermeulen KM , Dekker JH
Published: March 2016

Objective

To compare effects and cost‐effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) and watchful waiting in women with pelvic organ prolapse.

Design

Randomised controlled trial.

Setting

Dutch general practice.

Population

Women (≥55 years) with symptomatic mild prolapse, identified by screening.

Methods

Linear multilevel analysis.

Main outcome measures

Primary outcome was change of pelvic floor symptoms (Pelvic‐Floor‐Distress‐Inventory‐20 [PFDI‐20]) during 24 months. Secondary outcomes were condition‐specific and general quality of life, costs, sexual functioning, prolapse stage, pelvic floor muscle function and women's perceived improvement of symptoms.

Results

PFMT (n = 145) resulted in a 12.2‐point (95% CI 7.2–17.2, P < 0.001) greater improvement in PFDI‐20 score during 24 months compared with watchful waiting (n = 142). Participants randomised to PFMT more often reported improved symptoms (43% versus 14% for watchful waiting). Direct medical costs per person were €330 for PFMT and €91 for watchful waiting but costs for absorbent pads were lower in the PFMT group (€40 versus €77). Other secondary outcomes did not differ between groups. Post‐hoc subgroup analysis demonstrated that PFMT was more effective in women experiencing higher pelvic floor symptom distress at baseline.

Conclusion

PFMT resulted in greater pelvic floor symptom improvement compared with watchful waiting. The difference was statistically significant, but below the presumed level of clinical relevance (15 points). PFMT more often led to women's perceived improvement of symptoms, lower absorbent pads costs, and was more effective in women experiencing higher pelvic floor symptom distress. Therefore, PFMT could be advised in women with bothersome symptoms of mild prolapse.

Tweetable abstract

Pelvic floor muscle training can be effective in women with bothersome symptoms of mild prolapse.
Why We Need Postmortem Analysis of Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices
Authors: Mauf Sabrina , Jentzsch Thorsten , Laberke Patrick J. , Thali Michael J. , Bartsch Christine
Published: March 2016

The prevalence of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs), pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) is increasing. However, postmortem analysis of CIEDs is not performed routinely. Fourteen consecutive CIEDs were analyzed. The indication for and date of implantation, technical data, CIED reprogramming, heart rhythm disturbances, patient demographics and medical consultations were investigated. Death during the first year after implantation was seen in 54%, whereof 71% consulted a physician within 10 days before death. The time of death was attributed to a particular day in 29%. There was a relationship between CIEDs and cause/manner of death in 50%. Although limited by a small sample size, this study advocates the routine postmortem CIED analysis for forensic and clinical purposes in selected cases. Patients with CIEDs seem to show an increased risk of death during the first year after implantation. The analysis of CIEDs can be helpful in evaluating the time/cause/manner of death.
Paying for Environmental Results is WTO Compliant
Authors: Hasund Knut Per , Johansson Maria
Published: March 2016

Results‐based payments can be compatible with WTO and CAP rules. They could accordingly replace some of the present agri‐environmental payment schemes based on complying with conditions about management practices. Value‐based payments are permitted by the WTO but not by the CAP, at least not if the payments exceed the additional costs of producing the environmental service, including income foregone. If the payment exceeds the extra cost or loss of income the scheme is not exempt on WTO green box grounds but the sum of such schemes is likely to fit below the EU ceiling on non‐exempt support. The EU has large margins below its amber box ceiling. Value‐based payments can be differentiated according to the quantity or quality of delivered environmental services: the higher the environmental value, the higher the payment. The present agri‐environmental payments of the CAP are cost based and the EU classifies them as meeting the WTO green box of minimally trade and production distorting support. They are therefore not subject to the EU's WTO ceiling on non‐exempt support. The reason to convert to results‐based or value‐based payments is that they are potentially significantly more efficient than the existing management‐based and cost‐based payments.
Production of a single cyclic type of fructooligosaccharide structure by inulin‐degrading Paenibacillus sp. LX16 newly isolated from Jerusalem artichoke root
Authors: Yao Zhihua , Guo Jiqiang , Tang Wenzhu , Sun Zhen , Hou Yingmin , Li Xianzhen
Published: March 2016

A novel inulin‐degrading bacterium was isolated from a soil sample collected on Jerusalem artichoke roots. It is a Gram‐positive, aerobic, motile and central endospore‐forming straight rod, and exhibits phenotypic properties being consistent with its classification in the genus Paenibacillus. The predominant cellular fatty acids were anteiso‐C15:0, C16:0 and anteiso‐C17:0. This strain represents a novel species of the genus Paenibacillus on the basis of phenotypic data together with phylogenetic analysis, and it is here designated as LX16 and deposited in China centre for type collection, China (= CCTCC 2015256). Strain LX16 could produce a cyclofructooligosaccharide fructanotransferase catalysing the formation of one type of fructooligosaccharide (FOS) from inulin. The FOS was identified as a cyclofructooligosaccharide with a degree of polymerization of 6. Such homology in inulin degradation products may be beneficial for the functional FOS production.
Recent molecular and therapeutic advances in B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma in children
Authors: Giulino‐Roth Lisa , Goldman Stanton
Published: March 2016

Paediatric B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (B‐NHL) compromises a heterogeneous group of histological entities of which Burkitt lymphoma is the most common. In resource‐rich countries, the expected cure rate is in excess of 85% with application of risk‐adapted short intensive chemotherapy. In recent years, large paediatric cooperative group trials have sought to improve upon outcomes by decreasing the intensity of cytotoxic treatment as well as introducing targeted therapies, such as rituximab. These efforts have resulted in excellent outcomes, however there remains a group of high‐risk patients for whom novel treatment approaches are needed. In this review, we will summarize the recent paediatric clinical trials in B‐NHL as well as compare treatment approaches across the major cooperative groups. We will also highlight our current understanding of the molecular biology of paediatric B‐NHL with a focus on how this may help guide future rational targeted therapy.
Radiological and Biological Assessment of Immediately Restored Anterior Maxillary Implants Combined with GBR and Free Connective Tissue Graft
Authors: Kolerman Roni , Nissan Joseph , Rahmanov Arkadi , Zenziper Eran , Slutzkey Shimshon , Tal Haim
Published: March 2016

Objectives

Radiologic and biologic assessment of immediately restored Implants combined with guided bone regeneration (GBR) and free connective tissue graft.

Methods

1–4 year retrospective study involving 34 patients treated with maxillary immediately restored anterior single‐implants. Soft tissue dimensions, radiographic bone loss, and biological and prosthetic complications were assessed.

Results

During the mean follow up period of 29 months the study group presented a mean mesial bone loss of 1.10 ± 0.39 mm (range: 0.5–2.4 mm), and mean distal bone loss of 1.19 ± 0.41 mm (range: 0.4–2.1 mm). Mean periimplant probing depth of 3.49 mm (SD ± 1.06) and 2.35 (SD ± 0.52) for the contralateral tooth (highly significant p < 0.001). Bleeding on probing was present in 29.4% of the examined implant supported crown sites and 10.4% of the contralateral teeth (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Anterior maxillary single‐tooth replacement, using GBR and connective tissue graft according to the concept of immediate implant placement, and non‐functional restoration is an accepted treatment modality achieving favorable peri‐implant soft tissue condition.
EU's Conservation Efforts Need More Strategic Investment to Meet Continental Commitments
Authors: Hermoso Virgilio , Clavero Miguel , Villero Dani , Brotons Lluís
Published: March 2016

The European Union (EU) has made significant conservation efforts in the last two decades, guided by the Birds and Habitats Directives, currently under evaluation. Despite these efforts a large proportion of priority species are still in unfavorable condition and continue declining. For this reason, a thoughtful review of the implementation of conservation efforts in Europe is needed to identify potential causes behind this poor effectiveness. We compiled information on the distribution of all conservation funds under the LIFE‐Nature, the main financial tool for conservation in Europe. We found that LIFE‐Nature has not adequately covered continental conservation needs. The majority of funds have been directed toward nonthreatened species or regions of low conservation priority. Given the limited resources available, two key aspects are in urgent need for revision and improvement. First, the distribution of funds should be guided by continental and global conservation needs and planned at the EU scale. Second, new mechanisms are required to set conservation priorities in a dynamic fashion, rather than relying on fixed lists (i.e., the Directives’ Annexes) that may rapidly become outdated. These improvements would require new mechanisms to set priorities and redistribution of conservation efforts, supported by adequate policy and a more effective top‐down control on investment.
Ulcerative colitis endoscopic index of severity is associated with long‐term prognosis in ulcerative colitis patients treated with infliximab
Authors: Saigusa Keiichiro , Matsuoka Katsuyoshi , Sugimoto Shinya , Arai Mari , Kiyohara Hiroki , Takeshita Kozue , Mizuno Shinta , Mori Kiyoto , Nanki Kosaku , Takeshita Tatsuya , Nakazato Yoshihiro , Yajima Tomoharu , Naganuma Makoto , Hisamatsu Tadakazu , Ogata Haruhiko , Iwao Yasushi , Kanai Takanori
Published: March 2016

Background and Aim

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that is characterized by periods of remission and episodes of relapse. Mucosal healing is an emerging therapeutic target in UC and various scoring systems have been used. The UC endoscopic index of severity (UCEIS) is the only validated endoscopic index at present, with minimum interobserver variation. Correlation of UCEIS scores after treatment and clinical outcomes of UC has not been examined. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the usefulness of UCEIS after treatment with infliximab.

Methods

The medical records of 82 UC patients, treated with infliximab at Keio University Hospital between October 2010 and July 2013, were reviewed retrospectively. Endoscopic findings were evaluated based on the UCEIS.

Results

Mean pre‐therapeutic UCEIS score was 5.1. Pre‐therapeutic UCEIS scores were not associated with short‐term outcomes. Forty‐five patients underwent colonoscopy at 3–12 months after starting treatment; mean post‐therapeutic UCEIS score was 2.4, with a score of 0–1 in 16 (35.6%) patients, 2–4 in 19 (42.2%) patients, and 5–8 in 10 (22.2%) patients. Importantly, a post‐therapeutic UCEIS score of 0 or 1 after treatment was associated with a favorable long‐term outcome.

Conclusion

UCEIS score is a useful instrument for evaluating endoscopic improvement in UC patients treated with infliximab, and mucosal healing may be defined with a UCEIS score of 0 or 1.
Sex‐specific incidence rates and risk factors of insulin resistance and β–cell dysfunction: a decade follow‐up in a Middle Eastern population
Authors: Derakhshan A. , Tohidi M. , Hajebrahimi M. A. , Saadat N. , Azizi F. , Hadaegh F.
Published: March 2016

Aims

To examine the incidence of and risk factors for insulin resistance and β‐cell dysfunction in a representative Iranian population over a median follow‐up of 9.2 years.

Methods

In total, 3662 people (1528 men) without known diabetes with a baseline homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA–IR) level < 75th percentile and, when β–cell dysfunction was the outcome of interest, 3664 people (1530 men) with a homeostasis model assessment of β–cell function (HOMA‐β) level ≥ 25th percentile were included in the study (HOMA–IR < 2.20 and HOMA–β ≥ 64.3 among men, and HOMA–IR < 2.39 and HOMA–β ≥ 81.7 among women).

Results

The incidence rates of insulin resistance and β–cell dysfunction were 56.3 and 33.6/1000 person‐years among men and 48.6 and 50.3/1000 person‐years among women, respectively. Applying multivariable Cox regression in both sexes, fasting insulin, triglyceride/HDL cholesterol ratio and lower education were positive predictors of insulin resistance, whereas age was a negative predictor. Moreover, fasting plasma glucose, waist‐to‐height ratio, wrist circumference and lower hip circumference were significantly associated with incident insulin resistance only among women (all P < 0.05). Considering β–cell dysfunction in both sexes, age and fasting plasma glucose increased the risk, whereas 2‐h post‐challenge plasma glucose was a positive predictor only among men, and waist‐to‐height ratio and triglyceride/HDL cholesterol ratio were negative predictors only among women (all P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Modifiable risk factors are related to the incidence of insulin resistance and β–cell dysfunction, which can be prevented with proper strategies although the difference between men and women should be taken into account.
Performance and safety of an integrated bihormonal artificial pancreas for fully automated glucose control at home
Authors: Blauw H. , van Bon A. C. , Koops R. , DeVries J. H. ,   , on behalf of the PCDIAB consortium
Published: March 2016

Aims

To assess the performance and safety of an integrated bihormonal artificial pancreas system consisting of one wearable device and two wireless glucose sensor transmitters during short‐term daily use at home.

Methods

Adult patients with type 1 diabetes using an insulin pump were invited to enrol in this randomized crossover study. Treatment with the artificial pancreas started with a day and night in the clinical research centre, followed by 3 days at home. The control period consisted of 4 days of insulin pump therapy at home with blinded continuous glucose monitoring for data collection. Days 2–4 were predefined as the analysis period, with median glucose as the primary outcome.

Results

A total of 10 patients completed the study. The median [interquartile range (IQR)] glucose level was similar for the two treatments [7.3 (7.0–7.6) mmol/l for the artificial pancreas vs. 7.7 (7.0–9.0) mmol/l for the control; p = 0.123]. The median (IQR) percentage of time spent in euglycaemia (3.9–10 mmol/l) was longer during use of the artificial pancreas [84.7 (82.2–87.8)% for the artificial pancreas vs. 68.5 (57.9–83.6)% for the control; p = 0.007]. Time in hypoglycaemia was 1.3 (0.2–3.2)% for the artificial pancreas and 2.4 (0.4–10.3)% for the control treatment (p = 0.139). Separate analysis of daytime and night‐time showed that the improvements were mainly achieved during the night.

Conclusions

The results of this pilot study suggest that our integrated artificial pancreas provides better glucose control than insulin pump therapy in patients with type 1 diabetes at home and that the treatment is safe.
A Novel Index Combining Diastolic and Systolic Tissue Doppler Parameters for Prediction of Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence
Authors: Ari Hasan , Ari Selma , Sarigül O. Yaşar , Coşar Selvi , Doğanay Kübra , Emlek Nadir , Tütüncü Ahmet , Kivanç Eylem , Çamci Sencer , Aktaş Ibrahim , Karakuş Alper , Zengin Ismet , Bozat Tahsin , Melek Mehmet
Published: March 2016

Objective

Identification of patients at risk for atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence with using simple and objective parameters may be helpful in tailoring the treatment. In this study, we investigated whether E/(Ea×Sa) and Ea/(Aa×Sa) could be a predictor of AF recurrence after cardioversion. (E = early diastolic transmitral velocity, Ea = early diastolic mitral annular velocity, Aa = late diastolic mitral annular velocity, Sa = systolic mitral annular velocity).

Methods

In total, 127 patients with persistent AF were evaluated for this study and 73 patients were included according to the study criteria. Sinus rhythm (SR) was achieved for 70 patients after electrical direct‐current cardioversion. E, Sa, Ea, and Aa were determined at mitral medial and lateral site and average values obtained. E/(Ea×Sa) and Ea/(Aa×Sa) were calculated (medial, lateral, average). Heart rate and rhythm were followed with an electrocardiography (ECG) monitor and 12‐lead ECG at first week and first month.

Results

At one month, 53 patients (75.7%) were in SR, whereas 17 patients (24.3%) reverted to AF. According to precardioversion E/(Ea×Sa) lateral, E/(Ea×Sa) medial, E/(Ea×Sa) average (P ≤ 0.01 for all the indices), 24‐hour echocardiographic evaluation E/(Ea×Sa) lateral, E/(Ea×Sa) medial, E/(Ea×Sa) average, Ea/(Aa×Sa) lateral, Ea/(Aa×Sa) medial, and Ea/(Aa×Sa) average (P ≤ 0.01 for all the indices), indices were significantly higher in the AF recurrence group than in the SR group. Furthermore, the ROC analysis showed that all the E/(Ea×Sa) and Ea/(Aa×Sa) parameters predict the AF recurrence. The AUC values range from 70% to 81% (P ≤ 0.01 for all the parameters). In subgroup analysis of the patients, precardioversion mitral medial E/Ea ratio was between 8 and 15, and the ROC analysis showed that the novel indices predict the AF recurrence. The AUC values range from 72% to 86% (P ≤ 0.02 for all the parameters).

Conclusions

We found that E/(Ea×Sa) and Ea/(Aa×Sa) indices are novel predictors of AF recurrence.
DEMOCRACY AND GROWTH: A PERSPECTIVE FROM DEMOCRATIC EXPERIENCE
Authors: Ma Tay‐Cheng , Ouyang Lishu
Published: March 2016

This article investigates the impact of democracy on growth by simultaneously considering a country's secular‐historical experience of democracy and current political regime. The results obtained show that the effect of democracy on growth exhibits an asymmetrical pattern depending on the country's democracy stock. Only in “democratic countries” with “prolonged experiences of democratic rule” can democracy promote growth. This claim stands in contrast to the earlier literature in which there is either no consistent relationship between growth and democracy or perhaps a nonlinear relationship. This conclusion provides circumstantial support for the claim of the “democracy promotes growth” hypothesis. (JEL O43)
Social integration and substance use: assessing the effects of an early intervention programme for youth
Authors: Brand Amélie , Guillod Line , Habersaat Stéphanie , Panchaud Evelyne , Stéphan Philippe , Urben Sébastien
Published: March 2016

Aim

Appropriate social integration has been shown to be a protective factor against substance use among adolescents and associated negative consequences. Promoting social integration through early intervention with adolescents using substances is thus necessary and is the aim of the Identification, Assessment and Follow‐up of Adolescents with Substance Use (in French, Dépistage ‐ évaluation ‐ parrainage d'adolescents consommateurs de substances (DEPART) programme. The present study aimed to describe this programme and its participants from 2009 to 2013 as well as to assess its effects on social integration.

Methods

Data from 398 adolescents using substances who attended the DEPART programme were analysed.

Results

The results showed that almost 80% of the adolescents admitted to the DEPART programme were boys, with a large proportion using cannabis. Globally, social integration did not increase from admission to discharge from the programme, but a shift was observed for school and professional integration. Additionally, after the intervention, we observed that social integration was more important in younger patients.

Conclusions

This study showed that adolescents with problematic substance use mostly consumed soft drugs and that those who were integrated into the DEPART programme at a younger age were more likely to be socially integrated at the end of the programme.
MicroRNA 152 regulates hepatic glycogenesis by targeting PTEN
Authors: Wang Shuyue , Wang Lilin , Dou Lin , Guo Jun , Fang Weiwei , Li Meng , Meng Xiangyu , Man Yong , Shen Tao , Huang Xiuqing , Li Jian
Published: March 2016

Hepatic insulin resistance, defined as a diminished ability of hepatocytes to respond to the action of insulin, plays an important role in the development of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Aberrant expression of mmu‐miR‐152‐3p (miR‐152) is related to the pathogenesis of tumors such as hepatitis B virus related hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the role of miR‐152 in hepatic insulin resistance remains unknown. In the present study, we identified the potential role of miR‐152 in regulating hepatic glycogenesis. The expression of miR‐152 and the level of glycogen were significantly downregulated in the liver of db/db mice and mice fed a high fat diet. In vivo and in vitro results suggest that inhibition of miR‐152 expression induced impaired glycogenesis in hepatocytes. Interestingly, miR‐152 expression, glycogen synthesis and protein kinase B/glycogen synthase kinase (AKT/GSK) pathway activation were significantly decreased in the liver of mice injected with 16 μg·mL−1 interleukin 6 (IL‐6) by pumps for 7 days and in NCTC 1469 cells treated with 10 ng·mL−1 IL‐6 for 24 h. Moreover, hepatic overexpression of miR‐152 rescued IL‐6‐induced impaired glycogenesis. Finally, phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) was identified as a direct target of miR‐152 to mediate hepatic glycogen synthesis. Our findings provide mechanistic insight into the effects of miR‐152 on the regulation of the AKT/GSK pathway and the synthesis of glycogen in hepatocytes. Downregulated miR‐152 induced impaired hepatic glycogenesis by targeting PTEN. PTEN participated in miR‐152‐mediated glycogenesis in hepatocytes via regulation of the AKT/GSK pathway.
Deletion of a unique loop in the mycobacterial F‐ATP synthase γ subunit sheds light on its inhibitory role in ATP hydrolysis‐driven H+ pumping
Authors: Hotra Adam , Suter Manuel , Biuković Goran , Ragunathan Priya , Kundu Subhashri , Dick Thomas , Grüber Gerhard
Published: March 2016

The F1FO‐ATP synthase is one of the enzymes that is essential to meet the energy requirement of both the proliferating aerobic and hypoxic dormant stages of the life cycle of mycobacteria. Most F‐ATP synthases consume ATP in the α3:β3 headpiece to drive the γ subunit, which couples ATP cleavage with proton pumping in the c ring of FO via the bottom of the γ subunit. ATPase‐driven H+ pumping is latent in mycobacteria. The presence of a unique 14 amino acid residue loop of the mycobacterial γ subunit has been described and aligned in close vicinity to the c‐ring loop Priya R et al. (2013) J Bioenerg Biomembr 45, 121‐129 Here, we used inverted membrane vesicles (IMVs) of fast‐growing Mycobacterium smegmatis and a variety of covalent and non‐covalent inhibitors to characterize the ATP hydrolysis activity of the F‐ATP synthase inside IMVs. These vesicles formed a platform to investigate the function of the unique mycobaterial γ loop by deleting the respective loop‐encoding sequence (γ166–179) in the genome of M. smegmatis. ATP hydrolysis‐driven H+ pumping was observed in IMVs containing the Δγ166–179 mutant protein but not for IMVs containing the wild‐type F‐ATP synthase. In addition, when compared to the wild‐type enzyme, IMVs containing the Δγ166–179 mutant protein showed increased ATP cleavage and lower levels of ATP synthesis, demonstrating that the loop affects ATPase activity, ATPase‐driven H+ pumping and ATP synthesis. These results further indicate that the loop may affect coupling of ATP hydrolysis and synthesis in a different mode.
The transcription factor Pf‐POU3F4 regulates expression of the matrix protein genes Aspein and Prismalin‐14 in pearl oyster (Pinctada fucata)
Authors: Gao Jing , Chen Yan , Yang Yi , Liang Jian , Xie Jun , Liu Jun , Li Shiguo , Zheng Guilang , Xie Liping , Zhang Rongqing
Published: March 2016

Matrix proteins play key roles in shell formation in the pearl oyster, but little is known about how these proteins are regulated. Here, two POU domain family members, Pf‐POU2F1 and Pf‐POU3F4, were cloned and characterized. Functional domain analysis revealed that both them have conserved POUS and POUH domains; these domains are important for transcription factor function. The tissue distributions of Pf‐POU2F1 and Pf‐POU3F4 mRNAs in pearl oyster revealed different expression patterns, and the expression of Pf‐POU3F4 mRNA was relatively high in the mantle. The promoters of the matrix protein genes Aspein and Prismalin‐14 were cloned using genome‐walking PCR. Relatively high transcriptional activities of these promoters were detected in HEK‐293T cells. In transient co‐transfection assays, Pf‐POU3F4 greatly up‐regulated the promoter activities of the Aspein and Prismalin‐14 genes in a dose‐dependent manner. Structural integrity of Pf‐POU3F4 was essential for its activation function. One region of the Aspein gene promoter, −181 to −77 bp, and two binding sites in the Prismalin‐14 gene promoter, −359 to −337 bp and −100 to −73 bp, were required for activation of Pf‐POU3F4. An electrophoresis mobility shift assay demonstrated that Pf‐POU3F4 directly bound these sites. Pf‐POU3F4 knockdown led to a decrease in Aspein and Prismalin‐14 gene expression. Furthermore, expression levels for the Pf‐POU3F4 gene were similar to those of the Aspein and Prismalin‐14 genes during five development stages. Taken together, these results suggest that the transcription factor Pf‐POU3F4 regulates expression of the matrix protein genes Aspein and Prismalin‐14 in pearl oyster.

Database

The nucleotide sequence data of Pf‐POU2F1 is available in the GenBank databases under the accession number KM588196. The nucleotide sequence data of Pf‐POU3F4 is available in the GenBank databases under the accession number KM519606. The nucleotide sequence data of Aspein gene promoter is available in the GenBank databases under the accession number KM519607. The nucleotide sequence data of Prismalin‐14 gene promoter is available in the GenBank databases under the accession number KM519601.
Classification of patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease using rapid immunoassay of serum type IV collagen compared with liver histology and other fibrosis markers
Authors: Mizuno Masayuki , Shima Toshihide , Oya Hirohisa , Mitsumoto Yasuhide , Mizuno Chiemi , Isoda Satoshi , Kuramoto Mizue , Taniguchi Masanori , Noda Masashi , Sakai Kyoko , Koyama Noriyuki , Okanoue Takeshi
Published: March 2016

Aim

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) can progress to non‐alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) or non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). We investigated the association among serum type IV collagen level, liver histology, and other fibrosis markers in NAFLD progression.

Methods

We evaluated 184 patients diagnosed with NAFLD following biopsy, including 89 males and 95 females with an average age of 52.6 and 62.6 years, respectively. Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease was classified as NAFL or NASH using Matteoni's classification, and the grade and stage of NASH were assessed using Brunt's classification. Serum type IV collagen was measured by a rapid and sensitive latex particle‐enhanced turbidimetric immunoassay.

Results

Forty‐two patients with NAFL and 142 patients with NASH were included in this study. Compared with patients with NAFL, patients with NASH showed more significant liver function disorder and increased expression of fibrosis markers including type IV collagen, collagen 7S, Mac2‐binding protein (M2BP), and hyaluronic acid (HA). Expression of type IV collagen and collagen 7S, but not M2BP and HA, was more significantly elevated in patients with stage 1 NASH than in patients with NAFL, indicating that type IV collagen and collagen 7S may be better discriminators of NASH and NAFL than M2BP and HA at an early stage of fibrosis. When patients were stratified by NAFLD activity score, type IV collagen and collagen 7S were significantly elevated as NAFLD activity score progressed, whereas M2BP and HA expression were not significantly elevated.

Conclusion

Type IV collagen may be a useful measure of NASH severity as latex particle‐enhanced turbidimetric immunoassay‐based rapid type IV collagen assay can be carried out routinely.
Partner Selection for People with Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Bates Claire , Terry Louise , Popple Keith
Published: March 2016

Background

The aim of this research was to understand the characteristics that adults with intellectual disabilities look for in a partner. There have been numerous studies that have explored partner selection for people without intellectual disabilities, but no research that specifically identified the traits valued in a partner by people with intellectual disabilities.

Method

In‐depth interviews were conducted with eleven participants across two UK sites. All participants were adults with an intellectual disability who had been in a relationship with a partner for over a year. The narratives were analysed utilizing hermeneutic phenomenology, guided by the theory of Van Manen (1990).

Results

The findings highlighted that, regardless of age, participant's relationships typically developed within a segregated environment for people with intellectual disabilities over the past 10 years. People with intellectual disabilities expressed a wish to be loved, to be treated kindly and to have companionship. However, they did not place high value on attributes such as financial security, social status or intelligence.

Conclusions

The research demonstrated how poorly integrated people with intellectual disabilities are within mainstream society. Desired characteristics and expectations for participant's relationships were rooted in a shared history and culture, which was shaped by their intellectual disability and support needs.
Clinical outcomes and prevalence of cancer in patients with possible groove pancreatitis
Authors: Lekkerkerker Selma J , Nio Chung Y , Issa Yama , Fockens Paul , Verheij Joanne , Busch Olivier R , van Gulik Thomas M , Rauws Erik A , Boermeester Marja A , van Hooft Jeanin E , Besselink Marc G
Published: March 2016

Background and Aim

Data on non‐surgical treatment of groove pancreatitis (GP) and the risk of cancer are lacking. We aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of cancer in patients in whom the diagnosis GP was considered, and to evaluate symptom improvement after treatment.

Study

Patients referred with possible GP (2001–2014) were retrospectively included. An experienced radiologist reassessed imaging. GP patients received questionnaires evaluating their symptoms.

Results

From the 38 possible GP patients, 10 had cancer (26%) and 28 GP (74%). Compared with cancer patients, GP patients more frequently had cysts (2/10 vs. 18/28, P = 0.03), less often jaundice (6/10 vs 3/27, P < 0.01), an abrupt caliber change of the CBD (5/10 vs. 2/28, P < 0.01) or suspicious cytology (5/9 vs 2/20, P = 0.02).

Of the 28 GP patients, 14 patients were treated conservatively of whom 12 reported symptom improvement after a median follow‐up of 45 months (range 7–127 months). All 6 patients treated endoscopically and 7/8 patients treated surgically reported symptom improvement. Surgery, performed because of treatment failure (3/8) or inability to exclude malignancy (5/8), caused mortality in 1/8 patients.

Conclusions

Suspicion of pancreatic cancer should be high in patients presenting with possible GP. Conservative, endoscopic and surgical treatment can all lead to symptom improvement, suggesting a ‘step‐up approach’ to GP once cancer is excluded.
Social Enterprise Emergence from Social Movement Activism: The Fairphone Case
Authors: Akemu Ona , Whiteman Gail , Kennedy Steve
Published: March 2016

Effectuation theory invests agency – intention and purposeful enactment – for new venture creation in the entrepreneurial actor(s). Based on the results of a 15‐month in‐depth longitudinal case study of Amsterdam‐based social enterprise Fairphone, we argue that effectual entrepreneurial agency is co‐constituted by distributed agency, the proactive conferral of material resources and legitimacy to an eventual entrepreneur by heterogeneous actors external to the new venture. We show how in the context of social movement activism, an effectual network pre‐committed resources to an inchoate social enterprise to produce a material artefact because it embodied the moral values of network members. We develop a model of social enterprise emergence based on these findings. We theorize the role of material artefacts in effectuation theory and suggest that, in the case, the artefact served as a boundary object, present in multiple social words and triggering commitment from actors not governed by hierarchical arrangements.
Textural Complexity Model Foods Assessed with Instrumental and Sensory Measurements
Authors: Tang Jingyuan , Larsen Danaé S. , Ferguson Lynnette , James Bryony J.
Published: March 2016

The term textural complexity is associated with a range of different perceivable textures and sensations occurring from first bite through to swallow. The aim of this study was to develop gel‐based model foods with “built‐in” levels of textural complexity for use in a wider study of the impact of texture on satiation and satiety. The model foods needed to be quantified for textural complexity and that assessment was conducted using instrumental and sensory measurements model foods of different structural complexity (based on inclusions and layers with differing mechanical properties) resulted in puncture curves with differing numbers of peaks caused by the sequential puncture of structural features, and in differing lengths; in general higher complexity led to a greater number of peaks and greater length. Consistent with the definition of textural complexity, more texturally complex samples generated a greater number of descriptors during the “chewdown” phase in descriptive sensory analysis. Temporal dominance of sensation (TDS) analysis gave different information on the dynamics of texture perception during chewing sequence compared to descriptive analysis but confirmed the levels of textural complexity of the model foods. In particular TDS indicates the evolution of the number of texture attributes perceived, and the number of times the dominant texture changed.

Practical Applications

These gel‐based model foods with different textural complexity, similar nutritional densities and comparable chewing time can be used for investigating the hypothesized relationship between textural complexity and satiation. The instrumental and sensory tests used in this study proved capable of differentiating levels of textural complexity. The findings of Quantitative Descriptive Analysis and Temporal Dominance of Sensation, and using the number of peaks and length of a puncture curve to quantify textural complexity could be expanded on in the future to create standardised tests.
Rhamnose synthase activity is required for pathogenicity of the vascular wilt fungus Verticillium dahliae
Authors: Santhanam Parthasarathy , Boshoven Jordi C. , Salas Omar , Bowler Kyle , Islam Md Tohidul , Saber Mojtaba Keykha , van den Berg Grardy C. M. , Bar‐Peled Maor , Thomma Bart P. H. J.
Published: March 2016

The initial interaction of a pathogenic fungus with its host is complex and involves numerous metabolic pathways and regulatory proteins. Considerable attention has been devoted to proteins that play a crucial role in these interactions, with an emphasis on so‐called effector molecules that are secreted by the invading microbe to establish the symbiosis. However, the contribution of other types of molecules, such as glycans, is less well appreciated. Here, we present a random genetic screen that enabled us to identify 58 novel candidate genes that are involved in the pathogenic potential of the fungal pathogen Verticillium dahliae, which causes vascular wilt diseases in over 200 dicotyledonous plant species, including economically important crops. One of the candidate genes that was identified concerns a putative biosynthetic gene involved in nucleotide sugar precursor formation, as it encodes a putative nucleotide‐rhamnose synthase/epimerase‐reductase (NRS/ER). This enzyme has homology to bacterial enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of the nucleotide sugar deoxy‐thymidine diphosphate (dTDP)‐rhamnose, a precursor of L‐rhamnose, which has been shown to be required for virulence in several human pathogenic bacteria. Rhamnose is known to be a minor cell wall glycan in fungi and has therefore not been suspected as a crucial molecule in fungal–host interactions. Nevertheless, our study shows that deletion of the VdNRS/ER gene from the V. dahliae genome results in complete loss of pathogenicity on tomato and Nicotiana benthamiana plants, whereas vegetative growth and sporulation are not affected. We demonstrate that VdNRS/ER is a functional enzyme in the biosynthesis of uridine diphosphate (UDP)‐rhamnose, and further analysis has revealed that VdNRS/ER deletion strains are impaired in the colonization of tomato roots. Collectively, our results demonstrate that rhamnose, although only a minor cell wall component, is essential for the pathogenicity of V. dahliae.
Plasticity in plant functional traits is shaped by variability in neighbourhood species composition
Authors: Abakumova Maria , Zobel Kristjan , Lepik Anu , Semchenko Marina
Published: March 2016

Plant functional traits can vary widely as a result of phenotypic plasticity to abiotic conditions. Trait variation may also reflect responses to the identity of neighbours, although not all species are equally responsive to their biotic surroundings. We hypothesized that responses to neighbours are shaped by spatial community patterns and resulting variability in neighbour composition. More precisely, we tested the theoretical prediction that plasticity is most likely to evolve if alternative environments (in this case, different neighbour species) are common and encountered at similar frequencies.

We estimated the frequencies of encountering different neighbour species in the field for 27 grassland species and measured the aboveground morphological responses of each species to conspecific vs heterospecific neighbours in a common garden.

Responses to neighbour identity were dependent on how frequently the experimental neighbours were encountered by the focal species in their home community, with the greatest plasticity observed in species that encountered both neighbours (conspecific and heterospecific) with high and even frequency.

Biotic interactions with neighbouring species can impose selection on plasticity in functional traits, which may feed back through trait divergence and niche differentiation to influence species coexistence and community structure.
Phosphodiesterase‐4 inhibition as a therapeutic strategy for metabolic disorders
Authors: Wu C. , Rajagopalan S.
Published: March 2016

Phosphodiesterase‐4 (PDE4) hydrolyses cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), a crucial secondary messenger for cellular adaptation to diverse external stimuli. The activity of PDE4 is tightly controlled by post‐translational regulation, structure‐based auto‐regulation and locus specific ‘compartmentalization’ of PDE4 with its interactive proteins (signalsomes). Through these mechanisms, PDE4 regulates cAMP levels and shapes the cAMP signalling, directing signals from the diverse external stimuli to distinct microenvironments exquisitely. Derangement of the PDE4‐cAMP signalling represents a pathophysiologically relevant pathway in metabolic disorders as demonstrated through a critical role in the processes including inflammation, disordered glucose and lipid metabolism, hepatic steatosis, abnormal lipolysis, suppressed thermogenic function and deranged neuroendocrine functions. A limited number of PDE4 inhibitors are currently undergoing clinical evaluation for treating disorders such as type 2 diabetes and non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis. The discovery of novel PDE4 allosteric inhibitors and signalsome‐based strategies targeting individual PDE4 variants may allow PDE4 isoform selective inhibition, which may offer safer strategies for chronic treatment of metabolic disorders. © 2016 World Obesity
Sustainability of protocolized handover of pediatric cardiac surgery patients to the intensive care unit
Authors: Chenault Kristin , Moga Michael‐Alice , Shin Minah , Petersen Emily , Backer Carl , De Oliveira Gildasio S. , Suresh Santhanam
Published: March 2016

Background

Transfer of patient care among clinicians (handovers) is a common source of medical errors. While the immediate efficacy of these initiatives is well documented, sustainability of practice changes that results in better processes of care is largely understudied.

Aims

The objective of the current investigation was to evaluate the sustainability of a protocolized handover process in pediatric patients from the operating room after cardiac surgery to the intensive care unit.

Methods

This was a prospective study with direct observation assessment of handover performance conducted in the cardiac ICU (CICU) of a free‐standing, tertiary care children's hospital in the United States. Patient transitions from the operating room to the CICU, including the verbal handoff, were directly observed by a single independent observer in all phases of the study. A checklist of key elements identified errors classified as: 1) technical, 2) information omissions, and 3) realized errors. Total number of errors was compared across the different times of the study (preintervention, postintervention, and the current sustainability phase).

Results

A total of 119 handovers were studied: 41 preintervention, 38 postintervention, and 40 in the current sustainability phase. The median [Interquartile range (IQR)] number of technical errors was significantly reduced in the sustainability phase compared to the preintervention and postintervention phase, 2 (1–3), 6 (5–7), and 2.5 (2–4), respectively P = 0.0001. Similarly, the median (IQR) number of verbal information omissions was also significantly reduced in the sustainability phase compared to the preintervention and postintervention phases, 1 (1–1), 4 (3–5) and 2 (1–3), respectively.

Conclusions

We demonstrate sustainability of an improved handover process using a checklist in children being transferred to the intensive care unit after cardiac surgery. Standardized handover processes can be a sustainable strategy to improve patient safety after pediatric cardiac surgery.
Audit of anesthetic trainees’ ‘hands‐on’ operating room experience in an Australian tertiary children's hospital
Authors: Hogan Bridget , Keating Matthew , Chambers Neil A. , von Ungern‐Sternberg Britta
Published: March 2016

Background

There are no internationally accepted guidelines about what constitutes adequate clinical exposure during pediatric anesthetic training. In Australia, no data have been published on the level of experience obtained by anesthetic trainees in pediatric anesthesia. There is, however, a new ANZCA (Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists) curriculum that quantifies new training requirements.

Aim

To quantify our trainees’ exposure to clinical work in order to assess compliance with new curriculum and to provide other institutions with a benchmark for pediatric anesthetic training.

Methods

We performed a prospective audit to estimate and quantify our anesthetic registrars’ exposure to pediatric anesthesia during their 6‐month rotation at our institution, a tertiary pediatric hospital in Perth, Western Australia.

Results

Our data suggest that trainees at our institution will achieve the new ANZCA training standards comfortably, in terms of the required volume and breadth of exposure. Experience, however, of some advanced pediatric anesthetic procedures appears limited.

Conclusions

Experience gained at our hospital easily meets the new College requirements. Experience of fiber‐optic intubation and regional blocks would appear insufficient to develop sufficient skills or confidence. The study provides other institutions with information to benchmark against their own trainee experience.