bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fyn Plays a Pivotal Role in Fetomaternal Tolerance Through Regulation of Th17 Cells
Authors: Liu Qian , Tian Fu‐ju , Xie Qing‐zhen , Zhang Jun , Liu Liu , Yang Jing
Published: February 2016

Problem

Spontaneous abortion is a poorly understood phenomenon, although fetomaternal intolerance is known to play an important role in its pathogenesis. The tyrosine‐specific phosphotransferase Fyn has been reported as a significant regulator in immune response. However, its role in fetomaternal immune tolerance and contribution to spontaneous abortion remains unclear.

Methods of study

Fyn expression was evaluated at the fetomaternal interface of normal pregnant and abortion‐prone mice, as well as in decidual tissue obtained from normal human pregnancies and idiopathic miscarriages. A Fyn inhibitor was administrated into the LPS‐induced abortion mice to investigate the variation of embryo resorption and local immunity.

Results

Fyn expression fluctuated with the progress of normal pregnancy and was elevated in abortion‐prone mice and patients with recurrent spontaneous abortion. The Fyn inhibitor reversed LPS‐induced embryo absorption and aberrant inflammatory status including redundant expression of IRF4 and increased proportion of Th17 cells.

Conclusion

Fyn is confirmed as a negative regulator in fetomaternal immune tolerance, through promoting Th17 cell expansion and proinflammatory factors expression.
Type I Interferon Regulates the Placental Inflammatory Response to Bacteria and is Targeted by Virus: Mechanism of Polymicrobial Infection‐Induced Preterm Birth
Authors: Racicot Karen , Kwon Ja Young , Aldo Paulomi , Abrahams Vikki , El‐Guindy Ayman , Romero Roberto , Mor Gil
Published: February 2016

Problem

Preterm birth (PTB) affects approximately 12% of pregnancies and at least 50% of cases have no known risk factors. We hypothesize that subclinical viral infections of the placenta are a factor sensitizing women to intrauterine bacterial infection. Specifically, we propose that viral‐induced placental IFN‐β inhibition results in a robust inflammatory response to low concentrations of bacteria.

Methods

Human trophoblast SW.71, C57BL/6, and interferon (IFN) receptor knockout animals were used to determine IFN function. Illumina and Bio‐Rad microarrays identified pathways.

Results

Inhibiting the IFN‐β pathway resulted in a significant increase in inflammatory cytokines such as IL‐1B in response to LPS. Twist was positively correlated with IFN‐β expression and STAT3 phosphorylation and overexpressing Twist reduced IL‐1B. Treating IFNAR−/− mice with low‐dose LPS at E15.5 caused preterm birth.

Conclusion

IFN‐β was identified as a key modulator of placental inflammation and, importantly, is commonly affected by viruses. We propose dysregulation of IFN‐β is a major determinant for preterm birth associated with polymicrobial infection.
Ophthalmological characteristics in children with Leigh syndrome – A long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Åkebrand Rebecka , Andersson Susann , Seyedi Honarvar Antovan K. , Sofou Kalliopi , Darin Niklas , Tulinius Mar , Grönlund Marita Andersson
Published: February 2016

Purpose

To describe ophthalmological characteristics in children with Leigh syndrome (LS), an inherited, progressive, mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, at diagnosis and over time, and relate the results to causative genetic mutations.

Methods

Forty‐four children with LS (19 females), with a median age of 2.4 years (range: 0.6–14.2 years) at diagnosis, were studied at the Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden. Twenty‐eight children had known genetic defects. The children underwent an ophthalmological examination, including visual acuity (VA), eye motility, refraction, slit lamp examination, ophthalmoscopy and a full‐field electroretinogram (ff‐ERG). Seventeen children were available for follow‐up over a mean time of 5.4 years (range: 0.3–14.8 years). The results of these children were compared with an age‐ and sex‐matched reference group of healthy children (n = 119).

Results

Altogether 36/44 of the children (82%) had ophthalmological abnormalities. The most common findings were refractive errors (n = 16/25), low VA (n = 9/36), strabismus (n = 8/42), reduced eye motility (n = 8/40), optic atrophy (n = 7/41), retinal pigmentation (n = 6/40) and nystagmus (n = 6/42). Several ophthalmological manifestations appeared over time. In 5/22 children, ff‐ERG showed retinal dystrophy. No significant correlation between phenotype and genotype was found. The children with LS had significantly lower VA (p < 0.0001, Mantel‐Haenszel chi‐square exact test), more astigmatism (p = 0.012, Fisher′s exact test) and higher incidence of strabismus (p = 0.0002) compared to controls at follow‐up.

Conclusions

In this unique cohort of children with LS, the vast majority showed ophthalmological findings at diagnosis, which increased over time. Therefore, we recommend that all children diagnosed with LS should be followed up with regular ophthalmological examinations.
The validity and reliability of the EValuation of INtervention Scale: preliminary report
Authors: Warren Inga , Hicks Beverley , Kleberg Agneta , Eliahoo Joseph , Anand Kanwaljeet J. S. , Hickson Mary
Published: February 2016

Aim

Pain management is a priority for infants receiving neonatal care as they undergo many necessary painful and stressful interventions, which are associated with negative short‐ or long‐term consequences. This study aims to validate the content, and test the reliability, of the EValuation of INtervention Scale (EVIN), which is designed to evaluate the use of widely recommended nonpharmacological strategies to reduce neonatal pain and stress during procedures.

Methods

The content of the EVIN was validated with multidisciplinary participation (N = 80), and consistency was established via observations on preterm infants (N = 12, at 31–34 weeks' gestation) during interventions in a neonatal unit. A revised scale was tested for inter‐rater reliability with observations of invasive (blood sampling, N = 16) and noninvasive (nappy change, N = 18) interventions. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to determine inter‐rater reliability. SPSS (PASW Statistics) version 18 was used for analysis.

Results

Very good intraclass correlation coefficients (>0.8) for both invasive (0.962) and noninvasive procedures (0.970) were achieved.

Conclusion

These results indicate that the EVIN is suitable for the evaluation of nonpharmacological support during painful or stressful interventions.
It is rocket science – why dietary nitrate is hard to ‘beet’! Part I: twists and turns in the realization of the nitrate–nitrite–NO pathway
Authors: Khatri Jibran , Mills Charlotte Elizabeth , Maskell Perry , Odongerel Chimed , Webb Andrew James
Published: February 2016

Dietary nitrate (found in green leafy vegetables, such as rocket, and in beetroot) is now recognized to be an important source of nitric oxide (NO), via the nitrate–nitrite–NO pathway. Dietary nitrate confers several cardiovascular beneficial effects on blood pressure, platelets, endothelial function, mitochondrial efficiency and exercise. While this pathway may now seem obvious, its realization followed a rather tortuous course over two decades. Early steps included the discovery that nitrite was a source of NO in the ischaemic heart but this appeared to have deleterious effects. In addition, nitrate‐derived nitrite provided a gastric source of NO. However, residual nitrite was not thought to be absorbed systemically. Nitrite was also considered to be physiologically inert but potentially carcinogenic, through N‐nitrosamine formation. In Part 1 of a two‐part Review on the nitrate‐nitrite‐NO pathway we describe key twists and turns in the elucidation of the pathway and the underlying mechanisms. This provides the critical foundation for the more recent developments in the nitrate–nitrite–NO pathway which are covered in Part 2.
The heterogeneity of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms and conduct problems: Cognitive inhibition, emotion regulation, emotionality, and disorganized attachment
Authors: Forslund Tommie , Brocki Karin C. , Bohlin Gunilla , Granqvist Pehr , Eninger Lilianne
Published: February 2016

This study examined the contributions of several important domains of functioning to attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms and conduct problems. Specifically, we investigated whether cognitive inhibition, emotion regulation, emotionality, and disorganized attachment made independent and specific contributions to these externalizing behaviour problems from a multiple pathways perspective. The study included laboratory measures of cognitive inhibition and disorganized attachment in 184 typically developing children (M age = 6 years, 10 months, SD = 1.7). Parental ratings provided measures of emotion regulation, emotionality, and externalizing behaviour problems. Results revealed that cognitive inhibition, regulation of positive emotion, and positive emotionality were independently and specifically related to ADHD symptoms. Disorganized attachment and negative emotionality formed independent and specific relations to conduct problems. Our findings support the multiple pathways perspective on ADHD, with poor regulation of positive emotion and high positive emotionality making distinct contributions to ADHD symptoms. More specifically, our results support the proposal of a temperamentally based pathway to ADHD symptoms. The findings also indicate that disorganized attachment and negative emotionality constitute pathways specific to conduct problems rather than to ADHD symptoms.
High‐resolution stratigraphy of Scandinavian coastal archaeological settlements: the case of Håkonshella, W Norway
Authors: Puy Arnald , Balbo Andrea L. , Zinsli Camilla , Ramstad Morten
Published: February 2016

The stratigraphy of Scandinavian open‐air archaeological settlements is usually characterized as homogeneous, highly enriched in decomposing organic matter and poor in biogenic carbonates such as shells or bones. As a result, stratigraphies are often difficult to read in the field and settlement sequences may pass unnoticed by archaeologists. Here we show how the integration of bulk analyses, soil micromorphology, X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) core scanning and multivariate statistics can help in overcoming such limitations. We use the case study of Håkonshella 8, a Mesolithic hunter‐fisher‐gatherer settlement located in Bergen (W Norway). Fluctuations in the organic matter content, geochemical proxies (mainly P, Ga, Ti and the Si/Al ratio) and redoximorphic features highlight four cycles of site occupation and abandonment in an otherwise massive anthropogenic deposit. Following these settlement sequences, the site was covered by colluvium from nearby slopes over which a waterlogged soil formed. The approach used in Håkonshella has the potential to improve our capacity to interpret organically enriched anthropic deposits formed in coastal Scandinavia and in similar climatic regions.
Adrenaline: insights into its metabolic roles in hypoglycaemia and diabetes
Authors: Verberne A J M , Korim W S , Sabetghadam A , Llewellyn‐Smith I J
Published: February 2016

Adrenaline is a hormone that has profound actions on the cardiovascular system and is also a mediator of the fight‐or‐flight response. Adrenaline is now increasingly recognized as an important metabolic hormone that helps mobilize energy stores in the form of glucose and free fatty acids in preparation for physical activity or for recovery from hypoglycaemia. Recovery from hypoglycaemia is termed counter‐regulation and involves the suppression of endogenous insulin secretion, activation of glucagon secretion from pancreatic α‐cells and activation of adrenaline secretion. Secretion of adrenaline is controlled by presympathetic neurons in the rostroventrolateral medulla, which are, in turn, under the control of central and/or peripheral glucose‐sensing neurons. Adrenaline is particularly important for counter‐regulation in individuals with type 1 (insulin‐dependent) diabetes because these patients do not produce endogenous insulin and also lose their ability to secrete glucagon soon after diagnosis. Type 1 diabetic patients are therefore critically dependent on adrenaline for restoration of normoglycaemia and attenuation or loss of this response in the hypoglycaemia unawareness condition can have serious, sometimes fatal, consequences. Understanding the neural control of hypoglycaemia‐induced adrenaline secretion is likely to identify new therapeutic targets for treating this potentially life‐threatening condition.
Assessment of home hazards for childhood injuries in an urban population in New Delhi
Authors: Parmeswaran G. G. , Kalaivani M. , Gupta S. K. , Goswami A. K. , Nongkynrih B.
Published: February 2016

Background

Childhood injuries, especially the unintentional category of injuries, occur most commonly in the environment inside a child's home. The primary objective of the present study was to assess the presence of home hazards for childhood injuries in households in an urban resettlement colony in New Delhi.

Methods

A community‐based cross‐sectional study was carried out in an urban resettlement colony in Delhi. A hazards assessment tool was used to check the presence of hazards in the houses.

Results

A total of 225 households were included. It was seen that121 (53.7%) had a cooking stove within the reach of the child, and 190 (84.3%) had the gas pipe within reach. Fire hazard was seen in 84% of houses. About 78% of households did not have locked storage for chemicals.

Conclusion

The study revealed a significant burden of hazards for childhood injuries within their own homes, thus emphasizing the need for injury prevention interventions to reduce the number of hazards.
Longitudinal study of caries progression in 2‐ and 3‐year‐old German children
Authors: Pitchika Vinay , Kokel Claudia , Andreeva Jana , Crispin Alexander , Hickel Reinhard , Garcia‐Godoy Franklin , Kühnisch Jan , Heinrich‐Weltzien Roswitha
Published: February 2016

Objective

This 2‐year longitudinal study in 2‐ and 3‐year‐old kindergarten children investigated lesion progression on different surfaces of primary teeth.

Methods

The study was conducted between September 2008 and September 2010 on a sample of 400 children from the Kyffhäuser district (Thuringia, Germany). A calibrated investigator recorded (non)cavitated caries lesions according to World Health Organization (WHO), International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) and Universal Visual Scoring System (UniViSS) criteria. Nonparametric methods and linear regression using a mixed‐effects model with an unbalanced design were used for data analysis.

Results

There was a significant increase in the prevalence of noncavitated caries lesions during the 2‐year period, with the highest chance for change on all surfaces compared to cavitated lesions. First visible sign lesions on occlusal surfaces had the highest chance for change (estimate 0.38), whereas established lesions revealed the highest chance for change on proximal (estimate 1.05) and smooth surfaces (estimate 0.62). Proximal lesions exhibited the greatest chance for change irrespective of severity level.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that each type of carious lesion had different changing rates. Greater lesion severity correlated with greater chances to change and receive treatment. This information is crucial for dental practitioners in decision‐making processes.
The psychological cycle behind dental appointment attendance: a cross‐sectional study of experiences, anticipations, and behavioral intentions
Authors: Schneider Annegret , Andrade Jackie , Tanja‐Dijkstra Karin , White Mathew , Moles David R.
Published: February 2016

Objectives

This study explored a promising theoretical model to explain dental patients’ experiences and planning behavior for future appointments. The model predicts that patients pass through a ‘psychological cycle’ when undergoing a course of dental care: past appointment experiences influence their anticipations for future dental visits, which in turn affect behavioral intentions to attend appointments.

Methods

Variables representing the hypothesized model stages and other potentially relevant context variables (dental anxiety, subjective oral health ratings, general anxiety, stress) were assessed by means of a cross‐sectional online survey (n= 311). Multiple regression analyses were calculated to estimate the model's fit while controlling for potentially confounding factors.

Results

Consistent with the hypothesized cycle, recollections of past appointment experiences influenced behavioral intentions to attend future appointments. This association was mediated by evaluations of prior visits and expectations for future appointments. The variables included within this model explained 42% of the variance in attendance intentions when controlling for the potential moderating effects of context variables.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the contribution of cognitive factors, such as evaluations and expectations, to patients’ attendance intentions. This knowledge could help find ways to improve treatment expectations to foster better dental service utilization.
Subchronic exposures to fungal bioaerosols promotes allergic pulmonary inflammation in naïve mice
Authors: Nayak A. P. , Green B. J. , Lemons A. R. , Marshall N. B. , Goldsmith W. T. , Kashon M. L. , Anderson S. E. , Germolec D. R. , Beezhold D. H.
Published: February 2016

Background

Epidemiological surveys indicate that occupants of mold contaminated environments are at increased risk of respiratory symptoms. The immunological mechanisms associated with these responses require further characterization.

Objective

The aim of this study was to characterize the immunotoxicological outcomes following repeated inhalation of dry Aspergillus fumigatus spores aerosolized at concentrations potentially encountered in contaminated indoor environments.

Methods

Aspergillus fumigatus spores were delivered to the lungs of naïve BALB/cJ mice housed in a multi‐animal nose‐only chamber twice a week for a period of 13 weeks. Mice were evaluated at 24 and 48 h post‐exposure for histopathological changes in lung architecture, recruitment of specific immune cells to the airways, and serum antibody responses.

Result

Germinating A. fumigatus spores were observed in lungs along with persistent fungal debris in the perivascular regions of the lungs. Repeated exposures promoted pleocellular infiltration with concomitant epithelial mucus hypersecretion, goblet cell metaplasia, subepithelial fibrosis and enhanced airway hyperreactivity. Cellular infiltration in airways was predominated by CD4+ T cells expressing the pro‐allergic cytokine IL‐13. Furthermore, our studies show that antifungal T cell responses (IFN‐γ+ or IL‐17A+) co‐expressed IL‐13, revealing a novel mechanism for the dysregulated immune response to inhaled fungi. Total IgE production was augmented in animals repeatedly exposed to A. fumigatus.

Conclusions & Clinical Relevance

Repeated inhalation of fungal aerosols resulted in significant pulmonary pathology mediated by dynamic shifts in specific immune populations and their cytokines. These studies provide novel insights into the immunological mechanisms and targets that govern the health outcomes that result from repeated inhalation of fungal bioaerosols in contaminated environments.
Addison's disease with polyglandular autoimmunity carries a more than 2·5‐fold risk for adrenal crises: German Health insurance data 2010–2013
Authors: Meyer Gesine , Badenhoop Klaus , Linder Roland
Published: February 2016

Objective

Adrenal crises are potentially life‐threatening complications in patients with adrenal insufficiency (AI). Our objective was to investigate the frequency of adrenal crises in different forms of AI.

Design/Patients

The Statutory Health Insurance (SHI) database of the Techniker Krankenkasse – covering more than 12% of the German population – was analysed for diagnostic codes from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2013.

Measurements

By analysis of routine data from a large healthcare provider. Diagnoses of AI were recorded and classified in primary AI, secondary AI and autoimmune polyglandular syndrome (APS). The ICD‐code E27·2 (AC) was retrieved in all cohorts.

Results

We found a prevalence of 222/million for secondary and 126/million for primary AI. AC was documented with a frequency of 4·8/100 patient years. Crises were significantly more frequent in patients with primary (7·6/100 patient years) compared to those with secondary AI (3·2/100 patient years; P < 0·0001). Prevalence of crises was higher in individuals with APS (10·9/100 patient years) and highest in patients with primary AI and type 1 diabetes (12·5/100 patient years).

Conclusions

Applying a SHI database comprising more than 9 million individuals, we identified robust data about the risk of AC in different groups of patients with AI. Our data confirm and extend the clinical observation that patients with APS are at highest risk for AC. Approximately 1 of 8 patients with primary AI and type 1 diabetes suffers from an AC each year. Specific targeting of efforts aiming at the prevention of AC is necessary.
Autonomic control of inflammation
Authors: Suzuki Kazuhiro , Nakai Akiko
Published: February 2016

Substantial evidence has long suggested that various aspects of the immune system are affected by the activity of the nervous system. However, how the inputs from the nervous system are converted into the outputs from the immune system had been largely unclear. Studies in the past decade revealed the cellular and molecular basis by which inputs from the autonomic and somatosensory nervous systems control the development and functions of immune cells. The principal autonomic neurotransmitters, acetylcholine and noradrenaline, are involved in immune regulation in the context of inflammation through various molecular pathways. Circadian oscillations in the activity of the autonomic nervous system allow concerted actions of immune cells. In the present review, we integrate the current knowledge about the autonomic regulation of inflammatory responses, and provide pathophysiological and therapeutic implications.
Using Q methodology to understand how child protection social workers use attachment theory
Authors: Wilkins David
Published: February 2016

Child and family social workers in England are expected to integrate theory and research into their practice. This study investigated how a small sample of social workers from three Local Authorities in Southern England used key ideas from contemporary attachment theory when working with children who may have been abused or neglected. Twenty‐four social workers completed a Q‐sort of 49 items. Four factors emerged from the data, each representing a distinct collective perspective – the use of attachment theory (1) to enable a focus on and better understanding of the child; (2) to enable social workers to take clear decisions and interview purposefully; (3) to emphasize the primacy of relationships and ethical partnership working and (3) as a general framework for understanding and helping parents. These factors are described alongside a discussion of the implications for the use of theory and research in practice.
The phylogeny of Hildoceratidae (Cephalopoda, Ammonitida) resolved by an integrated coding scheme of the conch
Authors: Bardin Jérémie , Rouget Isabelle , Cecca Fabrizio
Published: February 2016

Ammonite phylogeny has mainly been established based on a stratigraphic approach, with cladistics underconsidered. The main arguments against the use of cladistics are the supposed large amount of homoplasy and the small number of characters. Resolving the phylogeny of the Hildoceratidae (Early Jurassic) is especially challenging because of its large diversity and disparity. Many forms that have not been determined as closely related in previous studies exhibit very similar shapes. Moreover, some groups are morphologically very different, adding difficulties to building a unique coding scheme at a low taxonomic resolution (i.e. species). Here we propose an integrated coding scheme of the peristome shape and the ornamentation, allowing an increased level of comparison. The shape of the peristome is used as a new reference to locate ornamental features and propose new homology hypotheses. In total, 105 taxa have been analysed for 47 characters. We code continuous characters by their means and ranges ± one standard deviation. We test two weighting schemes: equal weights standardized by unit range and implied weighting with several concavity constants. This work has led to redefinition of the phylogenetic inclusivenesses of all the hildoceratid subfamilies. The new coding scheme based on peristome shapes provides the fewest homoplastic characters. The schemes appear promising to improve phylogenetic analyses in ammonoids as well as molluscs as a whole by creating a general coding framework.
HOW DOES SKILLS MISMATCH AFFECT REMITTANCES? A STUDY OF FILIPINO MIGRANT WORKERS
Authors: McDonald James Ted , Valenzuela Maria Rebecca
Published: February 2016

In this article, unit record data on Filipino migrants are used to analyze the issue of skills mismatch, its prevalence, and its impact on remittances sent back home. Results obtained using instrumental variable techniques reveal that significant proportions of highly educated Filipino workers are employed in low‐skilled jobs overseas, with systematic variation by gender and by country of work. We find that skills mismatch impacts significantly on the migrant's remittance behavior, with effects that are differentiated between genders. Specifically, where there is mismatch in the migrant's educational attainment and the migrant's job requirement, we find significant reductions in remittances for men but not for women. (JEL J240, J610, O150)
Magnifying endoscopy simple diagnostic algorithm for early gastric cancer (MESDA‐G)
Authors: Muto Manabu , Yao Kenshi , Kaise Mitsuru , Kato Mototsugu , Uedo Noriya , Yagi Kazuyoshi , Tajiri Hisao
Published: February 2016

Gastric cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Early detection and accurate diagnosis of mucosal cancer is desirable in order to achieve decreased mortality; cause‐specific survival of patients with early gastric cancer is reported to exceed 95%. Endoscopy is the functional modality to detect early cancer; however, the procedure is not definitive when using conventional white‐light imaging. In contrast, magnifying narrow‐band imaging (M‐NBI), a novel endoscopic technology, is a powerful tool for characterizing gastric mucosal lesions because it can visualize the microvascular architecture and microsurface structure. To date, many reports on the diagnosis of early gastric cancer by M‐NBI, including multicenter prospective randomized studies conducted in Japan, have been published in peer‐reviewed international journals. Based on these published data, we devised a proposal for a diagnostic strategy for gastric mucosal cancer using M‐NBI to simplify the process of diagnosis and improve accuracy. Herein, we recommend a diagnostic algorithm for early gastric cancer using magnifying endoscopy.
Fatigue in childhood multiple sclerosis
Authors: Yeh E Ann
Published: February 2016

This commentary is on the review by Carroll et al. on pages 229–239 of this issue.
Effects of home and education environments on children's motor performance in China
Authors: Hua Jing , Duan Tao , Gu Guixiong , Wo Da , Zhu Qinqin , Liu Jiang‐Qin , Liu Ming , Wu Zhuochun , Meng Wei
Published: February 2016

Aim

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of home and educational environments on children's motor performance in China.

Method

We conducted a cross‐sectional study of 4001 preschool children selected from 160 classes. The children's motor performance was assessed using the Movement Assessment Battery for Children, 2nd edition (MABC‐2). Home and educational environments were evaluated using validated checklists. The effects of home and educational environments on motor performance were analysed using mixed and multilevel logistic regression models.

Results

The results showed that one score increase in the outside space of the family home was positively associated with the increase in total test score (0.104) subtest score of aiming and catching (0.037), and balance (0.034) of the MABC‐2, after adjusting for potential confounders (each p<0.05). Possession of motor toys at home and parental rearing behaviours were also related to total test score, manual dexterity, and balance (β=0.022–0.104, each p<0.05). Space and furnishings, activity, and interaction in the classroom had a significant positive association with total test score (β=0.069–0.201), and with subtest scores of manual dexterity, aiming and catching, and balance respectively (β=0.115–0.206). Space and furnishings of classrooms and possession of toys in the household were protective factors for ‘at risk’ or significant poor performance (odds ratio 0.942–0.973, each p<0.05).

Interpretation

A permissive and accepting family and educational environment made a positive contribution to children's motor performance. Access to sufficient space and furnishings within the classroom, as well as toys in the family, were protective factors for poor motor performance. Future assistance is needed to support an advantageous environment in early childhood programmes in China.
What does IT Take for Congress to Enact Good Policies? an Analysis of Roll Call Voting in the US Congress
Authors: Iaryczower Matias , Katz Gabriel
Published: February 2016

We study the conditions under which members of Congress incorporate policy‐specific considerations in their decisions. To do this, we estimate a model that accounts for the influence of private information about legislation quality on voting patterns in the House and Senate. We find that minority party members are more likely to evaluate proposals on their merits than majority members, but institutional and electoral considerations significantly attenuate these partisan differences. In particular, seniority, electoral safety, and constituents' political knowledge have a balancing effect on partisan predispositions to rely on policy‐relevant information, making minority (majority) members less (more) likely to vote informatively.
Utilisation of plant functional diversity in wildflower strips for the delivery of multiple agroecosystem services
Authors: Balzan Mario V. , Bocci Gionata , Moonen Anna‐Camilla
Published: February 2016

Increased plant diversity in cropping systems can play an important role in agriculture by enhancing arthropod‐mediated ecosystem services, including biological control and pollination. However, there is limited research investigating the concurrent influence of plant functional diversity within cultivated systems on different arthropod functional groups, the provision of multiple ecosystem services, and crop yield. During a field experiment, repeated over 2 years, we measured the effect of increasing plant functional diversity on community structure of arthropod visitors, the abundance of multiple pests and induced crop damage, and fruit production in two varieties of tomato. Plant resources (floral and extra‐floral nectar and pollen) were included within experimental plots in four levels, with each level increasing the plant functional group richness, based on floral morphology and availability of resources, in a replacement series. The presence of sown flower mixtures in experimental plots was associated with increased abundance and diversity of natural enemy functional groups and an enhanced abundance of bees (Hymenoptera:Apiformes). However, we only detected relatively small variability in arthropod visitors among types of mixtures, and increased abundance of natural enemies did not translate into stronger pest suppression or reduced crop damage. Lepidoptera pest damage was significantly higher in plots adjacent to wildflower strips, an ecosystem disservice, but a significantly higher crop productivity was recorded from these plots. Our results provide evidence that inclusion of non‐crop plant resources in agroecosystems can improve the conservation of beneficial arthropods and may lead to increased crop productivity.
Transcriptomic responses to different doses of cycloxaprid involved in detoxification and stress response in the whitebacked planthopper, Sogatella furcifera
Authors: Yang Yuanxue , Zhang Yixi , Yang Baojun , Fang Jichao , Liu Zewen
Published: February 2016

The whitebacked planthopper, Sogatella furcifera (Horváth) (Hemiptera: Delphacidae), an economically important rice pest, has developed resistance to many insecticides. Cycloxaprid, a novel cis‐nitromethylene neonicotinoid insecticide, has good industrialization prospects because of its high efficiency against rice planthoppers, including imidacloprid‐resistant populations. This study focused on the genes involved in xenobiotic detoxification and stress reaction after exposure to doses of cycloxaprid. Ten cytochrome P450 monooxygenase genes (one CYP3, three CYP4, and six CYP6), one microsomal glutathione S‐transferase (GST) gene, and one acetylcholinesterase (AChE) gene were up‐regulated in response to a high‐dose treatment (HD, 85% mortality). Five P450 genes (one CYP4, two CYP6, and one CYP15), one delta‐GST gene, and two carboxylesterase genes were up‐regulated in response to a low‐dose treatment (LD, 15% mortality). These findings were consistent with previous reports showing that CYP4, CYP6, and GSTd were associated with insecticide detoxification in insects and contributed significantly to insecticide resistance. Another interesting finding was that one Hsp70 and one small Hsp (sHsp) were up‐regulated in response to HD treatment, whereas they were downregulated in response to LD treatment. In order to check the accuracy of transcriptome data, 10 unigenes were randomly selected to compare their expression between treatments. Regulations of related genes in response to cycloxaprid doses could contribute to explaining the quick responses to insecticide stress.
Obstructive sleep apnoea and the need for its introduction into dental curricula
Authors: Güneri P. , İlhan B. , Çal E. , Epstein J. B. , Klasser G. D.
Published: February 2016

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a major health problem which causes blood oxygen desaturation that may initiate a cascade of events via inflammatory cytokines and adrenocorticotrophic hormone that may have impact upon quality of life and lead to potential life‐threatening events. Even though OSA affects an increasing number of individuals, the role of dental practitioners in recognition, screening and management has not developed accordingly. The goal of this article was to provide updated information to dental practitioners on pathophysiology, consequences and treatment options of OSA with a focused discussion on oral appliance (OA) therapy, as this topic is not routinely included in current dental curricula of many dental schools. Additionally, we present a template dental curriculum for predoctoral and/or postdoctoral students in education regarding sleep disordered breathing.
A practical review on carfilzomib in multiple myeloma
Authors: Muchtar Eli , Gertz Morie A. , Magen Hila
Published: February 2016

Carfilzomib, a second‐generation proteasome inhibitor, has been increasingly used in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (MM) since its approval by the American food and drug administration (FDA) in the summer of 2012. The drug is active as a single agent and in combination with other antimyeloma agents. As a result of its efficacy and safety in the relapsed/refractory setting, carfilzomib is being evaluated in patients with newly diagnosed MM as well as in high‐risk smoldering MM. This review will give a comprehensive summary of the drug, including its mechanism of action, the evaluated doses and schedules as well as a summary of the main clinical trials in the relapsed/refractory and newly diagnosed settings. A focus will be placed upon certain subgroups of interest as well as a description of the toxicity associated with carfilzomib use and a clinical perspective on toxicity management.
The leukotriene B4 receptor BLT2 protects barrier function via actin polymerization with phosphorylation of myosin phosphatase target subunit 1 in human keratinocytes
Authors: Chiba Takahito , Nakahara Takeshi , Hashimoto‐Hachiya Akiko , Yokomizo Takehiko , Uchi Hiroshi , Furue Masutaka
Published: February 2016

Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) receptor type 2 (BLT2) is a novel G‐protein‐coupled receptor, which selectively binds to 12(S)‐hydroxyheptadeca‐5Z,8E,10E‐trienoic acid (12‐HHT) with stronger affinity than to LTB4. Recently, 12‐HHT has been shown to have a protective effect on the epidermal barrier in human keratinocytes or transfectant cells overexpressing BLT2. Because the protective activity of BLT2 in high‐calcium conditions, which occurs in well‐differentiated cells, is exerted through increasing the integrity of tight junctions, we investigated the effects of 12‐HHT on the barrier function of human keratinocytes in low‐calcium conditions that mimic the basal layer; to our knowledge, this has not been reported previously. After stimulation with or without 12‐HHT, barrier function was measured using transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) and dextran permeability assay. Expression levels of adhesion molecules and actin polymerization were also evaluated. Treatment with 12‐HHT increased TER, along with decreased epidermal permeability of dextran in human keratinocytes. Furthermore, 12‐HHT induced actin polymerization with phosphorylation of myosin phosphatase target subunit 1. These results suggest that the ligation of BLT2 protects permeability barrier function by enhancing cell–cell contact, even under low‐calcium conditions, and indicate that a BLT2 agonist could be a novel therapeutic target for barrier‐disrupted skin diseases.
Fruit classification by biogeography‐based optimization and feedforward neural network
Authors: Zhang Yudong , Phillips Preetha , Wang Shuihua , Ji Genlin , Yang Jiquan , Wu Jianguo
Published: February 2016

Accurate fruit classification is difficult to accomplish because of the similarities among the various categories. In this paper, we proposed a novel fruit‐classification system, with the goal of recognizing fruits in a more efficient way. Our methodology included the following steps. First, a four‐step pre‐processing was employed. Second, the features (colour, shape, and texture) were extracted. Third, we utilized principal component analysis to remove excessive features. Fourth, a novel fruit‐classification system based on biogeography‐based optimization (BBO) and feedforward neural network (FNN) was proposed, with the short name of BBO‐FNN. The experiment employed over 1653 chromatic fruit images (18 categories) by fivefold stratified cross‐validation. The results showed that the proposed BBO‐FNN yielded an overall accuracy of 89.11%, which was higher than the five state‐of‐the‐art methods: genetic algorithm‐FNN, artificial bee colony‐FNN, particle swarm optimization‐FNN, kernel support vector machine, and ant colony optimization‐FNN. Also, the BBO‐FNN achieved the same accuracy as fitness‐scaling chaotic artificial bee colony‐FNN, but it performed much faster than the latter. The proposed BBO‐FNN was effective in fruit‐classification in terms of classification accuracy and computation time. This indicated that it can be applied in credible use.
Narrative Solutions: Using Preferred View of Self to Motivate Individual and Family Change
Authors: Lund Thomas , Eron Joseph , Dagirmanjian Steve
Published: February 2016

This article describes refinements of the Narrative Solutions approach to individual and family therapy we first presented in Family Process 22 years ago. The centerpiece of this integrative (narrative‐strategic) model is “preferred view of self,” or the constellation of qualities people would like to see in themselves and have others see in them. We assume that problems generally involve one or more people mismanaging discrepancies or “gaps” between preferred views of self and either their actual behavior or how they see others seeing them and their behavior. Because clients are motivated to resolve such discrepancies, we use specifiable conversational strategies to help people (a) be clear about their preferred view of self, (b) notice gaps or discrepancies, and (c) summon resources to manage these gaps more effectively. Positive clinical effects of these strategic conversations can be rapid and dramatic. Case examples highlight applications to child and family problems, and we discuss some challenges and future directions for the Narrative Solutions approach.
Translocated in liposarcoma regulates the distribution and function of mammalian enabled, a modulator of actin dynamics
Authors: Sugiura Tomohito , Matsuda Shuji , Kurosaka Satoshi , Nakai Nobuhiro , Fukumoto Keita , Takahashi Tetsuya , Maruyama Hirofumi , Imaizumi Kazunori , Matsumoto Masayasu , Takumi Toru
Published: February 2016

Translocated in liposarcoma/fused in sarcoma (TLS/FUS) is an RNA‐binding protein that regulates the splicing pattern of mRNA transcripts and is known to cause a type of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In the absence of TLS, Mammalian enabled (Mena), an actin‐regulatory protein and a target of TLS, undergoes preferential alternative splicing. In the present study, we show that the ablation of TLS dysregulates the subcellular location and functions of Mena. When TLS knockout (KO) mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) were transfected with wild‐type Mena, it no longer accumulated at focal adhesions and peripheral structures, whereas the localization of the alternatively spliced form was maintained. Additionally, the ability of Mena to suppress the motility of cells was lost in TLS KO MEFs. Moreover, Mena failed to promote neurite outgrowth in TLS KO primary neurons. Taken together, TLS is intimately involved in the local cytoskeletal dynamics surrounding Mena in both fibroblasts and neurons. The robust change in cytoskeletal dynamics, as indicated by the dysregulation of Mena in TLS KO cells, provides a new insight into the pathogenesis of certain types of ALS.
Structural studies reveal an important role for the pleiotrophin C‐terminus in mediating interactions with chondroitin sulfate
Authors: Ryan Eathen , Shen Di , Wang Xu
Published: February 2016

Pleiotrophin (PTN) is a potent glycosaminoglycan‐binding cytokine that is important in neural development, angiogenesis and tissue regeneration. Much of its activity is attributed to its interactions with the chondroitin sulfate (CS) proteoglycan, receptor type protein tyrosine phosphatase ζ (PTPRZ). However, there is little high resolution structural information on the interactions between PTN and CS, nor is it clear why the C‐terminal tail of PTN is necessary for signaling through PTPRZ, even though it does not contribute to heparin binding. We determined the first structure of PTN and analyzed its interactions with CS. Our structure shows that PTN possesses large basic surfaces on both of its structured domains and also that residues in the hinge segment connecting the domains have significant contacts with the C‐terminal domain. Our analysis of PTN–CS interactions showed that the C‐terminal tail of PTN is essential for maintaining stable interactions with chondroitin sulfate A, the type of CS commonly found on PTPRZ. These results offer the first possible explanation of why truncated PTN missing the C‐terminal tail is unable to signal through PTPRZ. NMR analysis of the interactions of PTN with CS revealed that the C‐terminal domain and hinge of PTN make up the major CS‐binding site in PTN, and that removal of the C‐terminal tail weakened the affinity of the site for CSA but not for other high sulfation density CS.

Database

Coordinates of the ensemble of ten PTN structures have been deposited in RCSB under accession number 2n6f. Chemical shifts assignments and structural constraints have been deposited in BMRB under accession number 25762.
Predicting the crack opening displacements of a partially debonded pipeline in rock mass under P waves
Authors: Fang X.‐Q. , Huang H.‐C. , Liu J.‐X.
Published: February 2016

A crack open may lead to the failure because of rupture or leak in the pipeline. In this paper, the dynamic crack opening displacements (CODs) of a partially debonded pipeline subjected to P and SV waves are predicted, and a mathematical model is proposed. The debonded region around the pipeline is modelled as an interface crack with non‐contacting faces. The wave fields in the bonded and debonded areas are expressed by wave function expansion method, and the expanded coefficients are determined by satisfying the boundary conditions with consideration of cracks. The CODs in the debonding area are represented by Chebyshev polynomials. Some examples are illustrated to analyse the CODs under different thicknesses of pipeline and different wave frequencies. In the region of high frequency, the value of CODs is more sensitive to the crack size. The difference between the CODs in the compression direction and shear directions is also examined. Comparison with existing results is given to validate this dynamic model.
Investigation of fatigue and fracture properties of asphalt mixtures modified with carbon nanotubes
Authors: Ameri M. , Nowbakht Sh. , Molayem M. , Aliha M. R. M.
Published: February 2016

Load‐induced cracking is one of the primary forms of distress in asphalt pavements at intermediate temperatures. Binder modification is a good alternative to promote the cracking resistance of asphalt mixtures. In the current research study, the effects of carbon nanotubes as a binder modifier on the fatigue and fracture performance of asphalt mixtures are investigated. The carbon nanotubes are added at five different percentages ranging from 0.2% to 1.5% to the base binder to study their effects on the fracture resistance and fatigue life of the asphalt mixtures. Using the cracked semi‐circular bend specimen, the critical value of J‐integral (Jc) was obtained for the investigated modified asphalt mixtures. Also, the fatigue behaviour of asphalt mixtures was studied using flexural beam fatigue test specimen. By employing the ratio of dissipated energy change approach, the plateau value of tested mixtures was determined as a measure of fatigue performance. Results showed that the carbon nanotubes can enhance both fracture resistance and fatigue performance of tested asphalt mixtures especially at higher percentages of the carbon nanotube.
Crystal plasticity FE study of the effect of thermo‐mechanical loading on fatigue crack nucleation in titanium alloys
Authors: Ozturk D. , Shahba A. , Ghosh S.
Published: February 2016

In this paper, crystal plasticity simulations are conducted with a stabilized finite deformation finite element model to study the effects of microstructure as well as thermal and mechanical loading conditions on fatigue crack nucleation of Ti alloys. The crystal plasticity model includes a non‐local crack nucleation model. Results of simulations are used to understand the effects of dwell loading periods and microtexture on fatigue nucleation life in polycrystalline microstructures in comparison with experiments. From the thermo‐mechanical studies of these alloys, it is found that anisotropic thermal expansion under thermal loading can induce stresses normal to the basal plane, which can help opening up microcracks. Moreover, in agreement with experimental results, the simulations show diminished load shedding at elevated temperature because of weakening of plastic anisotropy.