bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic workup for postmenopausal bleeding: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: van Hanegem N , Breijer MC , Slockers SA , Zafarmand MH , Geomini PMAJ , Catshoek R , Pijnenborg JMA , van der Voet LF , Dijkhuizen FPHLJ , van Hoecke GCR , Reesink‐Peters N , Veersema S , van Hooff MHA , van Kesteren PJM , Huirne JA , Opmeer BC , Bongers MY , Mol BWJ , Timmermans A
Published: May 2016

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of hysteroscopy for the detection and treatment of endometrial polyps versus expectant management in women with postmenopausal bleeding (PMB), a thickened endometrium and benign endometrial sampling.

Design

Multicentre, randomised controlled trial.

Setting

Three academic hospitals and nine non‐academic teaching hospitals in the Netherlands.

Population

Women with PMB, an endometrial thickness >4 mm and benign result from endometrial sampling.

Methods

Women were randomised to either further diagnostic workup by hysteroscopy (preceded by saline infusion sonography) or expectant management.

Main outcomes

The primary outcome measure was recurrence of PMB within a year after randomisation. Secondary outcome measures were time to recurrent bleeding and recurrent bleeding after more than 1 year. In the hysteroscopy group, the presence of polyps and the results of their histology were registered.

Results

Between January 2010 and October 2013, 200 women were randomised; 98 to hysteroscopy and 102 to expectant management. Within 1 year a total of 15 women (15.3%) in the hysteroscopy group experienced recurrent bleeding, versus 18 (18.0%) in the expectant management group (relative risk 0.85 (95% CI 0.46–1.59). In the hysteroscopy group, 50/98 (51%) polyps were diagnosed of which 6/98 (6%) showed evidence of endometrial (pre)malignancy; final pathology results after hysterectomy showed three women with hyperplasia with atypia and three women with endometrial cancer.

Conclusion

In women with PMB, a thickened endometrium and benign endometrial sampling, operative hysteroscopy does not reduce recurrent bleeding. Hysteroscopy detected focal endometrial (pre)malignancy in 6% of women who had benign endometrial sampling. This finding indicates that in these women, further diagnostic workup is warranted to detect focal (pre)malignancies, missed by blind endometrial sampling.

Tweetable abstract

In women with PMB, hysteroscopy does not reduce recurrent bleeding but is warranted to detect focal malignancy.
d‐Mannose: Properties, Production, and Applications: An Overview
Authors: Hu Xing , Shi Yaning , Zhang Peng , Miao Ming , Zhang Tao , Jiang Bo
Published: May 2016

d‐Mannose is a C‐2 epimer of d‐glucose, which is a natural monosaccharide. It can be obtained from both plants and microorganisms. Chemical synthesis and biotransformation of d‐mannose from d‐fructose or d‐glucose by using d‐mannose isomerases, d‐lyxose isomerases, and cellobiose 2‐epimerase were intensively studied. d‐Mannose is an important component of polysaccharides and glycoproteins. It has been widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, and poultry industries, acting as the source of dietary supplements, starting material for the synthesis of drugs and blocking colonization in animal feeds. d‐Mannose is a glyconutrient with high research value in basic science because of its structure and function. This article presents a review of current studies on sources, characteristics, production, and application of d‐mannose.
The effect of host plants on genotype variability in fitness and honeydew composition of Aphis fabae
Authors: Schillewaert Sharon , Vantaux Amélie , Van den Ende Wim , Wenseleers Tom
Published: May 2016

Aphid species can be polyphagous, feeding on multiple host plants across genera. As host plant species can have large variation in their phloem composition, this can affect aphid fitness and honeydew composition. Previous research showed significant intraspecific genotype variation in the composition of the honeydew carbohydrates of the black bean aphid Aphis fabae, with the ant attractant trisaccharide melezitose showing especially large variation across different genotypes. In this study, we test if variation in melezitose and carbohydrate composition of aphid honeydew could be linked to the adaptation of specific aphid genotypes to particular host plants. To this end, 4 high and 5 low melezitose secreting genotypes of the black bean aphid Aphis fabae were reared on 4 common host plants: broad bean, goosefoot, beet, and poppy. The carbohydrate composition, and in particular melezitose secretion, showed important aphid genotype and host plant interactions, with some genotypes being high melezitose secreting on 1 host plant but not on another. However, the interaction effects were not paralleled in the fitness measurements, even though there were significant differences in the average fitness across the different host plants. On the whole, this study demonstrates that aphid honeydew composition is influenced by complex herbivore–plant interactions. We discuss the relevance of these findings in the context of ant–aphid mutualisms and adaptive specialization in aphids.
Quality Evaluation of Shelled and Unshelled Macadamia Nuts by Means of Near‐Infrared Spectroscopy (NIR)
Authors: Canneddu Giovanna , Júnior Luis Carlos Cunha , de Almeida Teixeira Gustavo Henrique
Published: May 2016

The quality of shelled and unshelled macadamia nuts was assessed by means of Fourier transformed near‐infrared (FT‐NIR) spectroscopy. Shelled macadamia nuts were sorted as sound nuts; nuts infected by Ecdytolopha aurantiana and Leucopteara coffeella; and cracked nuts caused by germination. Unshelled nuts were sorted as intact nuts (<10% half nuts, 2014); half nuts (March, 2013; November, 2013); and crushed nuts (2014). Peroxide value (PV) and acidity index (AI) were determined according to AOAC. PCA‐LDA shelled macadamia nuts classification resulted in 93.2% accurate classification. PLS PV prediction model resulted in a square error of prediction (SEP) of 3.45 meq/kg, and a prediction coefficient determination value (Rp2) of 0.72. The AI PLS prediction model was better (SEP = 0.14%, Rp2 = 0.80). Although adequate classification was possible (93.2%), shelled nuts must not contain live insects, therefore the classification accuracy was not satisfactory. FT‐NIR spectroscopy can be successfully used to predict PV and AI in unshelled macadamia nuts, though.
A retrospective review of the economic impact of the food and drug administration's proposed egg rule
Authors: Minor Travis , Parrett Matt
Published: May 2016

Using novel 1998–2008 data collected by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on foodborne illnesses and outbreaks, we test using a difference‐in‐differences approach whether the Food and Drug Administration's proposed rule entitled “Prevention of Salmonella Enteritidis in Shell Eggs During Production” decreased the number of Salmonella illnesses associated with the consumption of shell eggs. We find that this rule led to a reduction in the number of Salmonella illnesses of between 308 and 434 illnesses per year, which we attribute to a reduction in the number of outbreaks associated with egg‐containing products rather than a reduction in the average number of illnesses reported in each outbreak.
Thickening of inner retinal layers in the parafovea after bariatric surgery in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Brynskov Troels , Laugesen Caroline S. , Floyd Andrea K. , Sørensen Torben L.
Published: May 2016

Purpose

Bariatric surgery dramatically improves the metabolic profile in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). We have previously reported a thickening of the retina after bariatric surgery and aimed to investigate these subclinical changes in retinal thickness and vessel calibres in more detail.

Methods

We examined 51 patients with T2D 2 weeks before and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after bariatric surgery. Retinal thickness was measured with optical coherence tomography and automated segmentation in the fovea, parafovea and perifovea in each retinal layer. Retinal vessels were semiautomatically measured in a zone 0.5–1 disc diameters from the optic disc.

Results

The total macula thickened with a peak after 6 months in both univariate (2.7 ± 0.4 μm, p < 0.001) and multivariate analysis (2.2 ± 0.7 μm, p = 0.001). The thickening was most prominent in the parafoveal ring 1–3 mm from the centre and in the retinal nerve fibre layer and outer nuclear layer. A fall in HbA1c (p = 0.01) and longer duration of diabetes (p = 0.01) were associated with more thickening. The central retinal artery equivalent widened 22.1 μm (±8.9, p = 0.01) in the multivariate analysis 12 months postoperatively. A reduction in blood pressure was associated with less widening of the arterioles (p = 0.01).

Conclusion

Patients with T2D had thickening of the retina after gastric bypass surgery with a peak 6 months postoperatively. The thickening was most pronounced in the retinal nerve fibre layer and the outer nuclear layer of the parafovea. In multivariate analysis, the central retinal artery equivalent increased at 12 months.
The efficacy and safety of either infliximab or adalimumab in 362 patients with anti‐TNF‐α naïve Crohn's disease
Authors: Narula N. , Kainz S. , Petritsch W. , Haas T. , Feichtenschlager T. , Novacek G. , Eser A. , Vogelsang H. , Reinisch W. , Papay P.
Published: May 2016

Background

TNFα antagonists, including infliximab (IFX) and adalimumab (ADA), have revolutionised treatment for Crohn's disease. Studies comparing efficacy in patients with Crohn's disease naïve to TNFα antagonists are lacking.

Methods

Consecutive TNFα antagonist‐naïve patients with luminal or perianal Crohn's disease from four tertiary centres in Austria were assessed prospectively for induction and maintenance efficacy, and safety, of either IFX or ADA.

Results

In a total of 362 patients, 251 (69.3%) started IFX and 111 (30.7%) started ADA. At baseline, the median Harvey–Bradshaw Index (HBI) score was 8 (range 5–29) and 8 (5–36), and the median C‐reactive protein (CRP) was 1.07 (interquartile range (IQR) 1.36) mg/dL and 1.16 (IQR 1.23) mg/dL for IFX and ADA, respectively. At week 12, there was no difference between IFX and ADA among patients with luminal Crohn's disease in clinical remission (IFX 128/204; 62.7% vs. ADA 68/107; 63.6%, P = 0.47), clinical response (IFX 154/204; 75.5% vs. ADA 82/107; 76.6%, P = 0.82) and steroid‐free remission (IFX 110/204; 53.9% vs. ADA 61/107; 57%, P = 0.60). At 12 months, there were similar numbers of patients treated with IFX and ADA who maintained clinical remission (IFX 77/154; 50.4% vs. ADA 47/82; 57.3%, P = 0.48) and steroid‐free remission (IFX 68/154; 44.3% vs. ADA 44/82; 53.7%, P = 0.16). Baseline CRP >0.7 mg/dL (OR 0.24; 95% CI 0.07–0.77, P = 0.01) was the only predictor of clinical remission at 12 months in patients who did not have escalation of anti‐TNFα therapy.

Conclusion

IFX and ADA appear comparable in clinical outcomes for patients with Crohn's disease who are naïve to TNFα antagonists.
Towards correlative super‐resolution fluorescence and electron cryo‐microscopy
Authors: Wolff Georg , Hagen Christoph , Grünewald Kay , Kaufmann Rainer
Published: May 2016

Correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM) has become a powerful tool in life sciences. Particularly cryo‐CLEM, the combination of fluorescence cryo‐microscopy (cryo‐FM) permitting for non‐invasive specific multi‐colour labelling, with electron cryo‐microscopy (cryo‐EM) providing the undisturbed structural context at a resolution down to the Ångstrom range, has enabled a broad range of new biological applications. Imaging rare structures or events in crowded environments, such as inside a cell, requires specific fluorescence‐based information for guiding cryo‐EM data acquisition and/or to verify the identity of the structure of interest. Furthermore, cryo‐CLEM can provide information about the arrangement of specific proteins in the wider structural context of their native nano‐environment. However, a major obstacle of cryo‐CLEM currently hindering many biological applications is the large resolution gap between cryo‐FM (typically in the range of ∼400 nm) and cryo‐EM (single nanometre to the Ångstrom range). Very recently, first proof of concept experiments demonstrated the feasibility of super‐resolution cryo‐FM imaging and the correlation with cryo‐EM. This opened the door towards super‐resolution cryo‐CLEM, and thus towards direct correlation of structural details from both imaging modalities.
Dynamic changes in immune cell profile in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: Immunomodulatory effects of chemotherapy
Authors: Takahashi Hideyuki , Sakakura Koichi , Mito Ikko , Ida Shota , Chikamatsu Kazuaki
Published: May 2016

Tumor cells have evolved sophisticated means of escape from the host immune system. To date, several important immunological phenomena have been revealed in peripheral blood as well as within tumors. In the present study, we first investigated the proportion and activation status of peripheral immune regulatory cells and CD8+ T‐cell subsets in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) using a multicolor flow cytometer, and then evaluated how therapy with docetaxel, cisplatin, and 5‐fluorouracil modulated the immune cell profile in peripheral blood. The proportion of naïve T cells was lower and that of effector memory T cells (TEM) was higher in HNSCC patients than in healthy donors. Moreover, the proportions of activated TEM cells and effector T cells (TEFF) were dramatically increased in patients with advanced stage disease. The proportion of regulatory T cells and CD14+HLA‐DR− myeloid‐derived suppressor cells was elevated in HNSCC patients. Of note, after therapy, in addition to the transient reduction in immune regulatory cells, decreases in central memory T cells and increases in TEFF cells were observed among CD8+ T‐cell subsets, suggesting differentiation from central memory T cells into TEFF cells. Our results suggested that, despite the immunosuppressive status in HNSCC patients, tumor‐specific immune responses mediated by CD8+ T cells might be induced and maintained. Moreover, chemotherapy can trigger not only a transient reduction in immune regulatory cells but also further activation of CD8+ T cells.
Laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy vs Delorme's operation in management of complete rectal prolapse: a prospective randomized study
Authors: Emile S. H. , Elbanna H. , Youssef M. , Thabet W. , Omar W. , Elshobaky A. , Abd El‐Hamed T. M. , Farid M.
Published: May 2016

Aim

Various surgical operations have been devised for the treatment of rectal prolapse, yet no ideal procedure has been described. The present study aims to compare the clinical and functional outcome of laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy (LVMR) and Delorme's operation for complete rectal prolapse.

Method

Fifty patients with complete rectal prolapse were enrolled in this study. Patients were randomly selected to undergo either LVMR or Delorme's procedure after clinical, manometric and radiological evaluation. Patient characteristics, operative data, postoperative complications, recurrence of rectal prolapse and continence state were evaluated. Patients were followed for a mean duration of 18 months.

Results

Thirty‐one (62%) patients were women and 19 (38%) patients were men with a mean age of 39.7 ± 6.9 years. Patients were allocated into two equal groups: LVMR group and Delorme's group. Thirty‐three (66%) complained of faecal incontinence preoperatively. Patients were followed for 18 months. There was no major postoperative complication or treatment death. Improvement in continence was reported in 80.9% of patients (83.3% in group 1 vs 71.4% in group 2). Recurrent prolapse was observed in 16% of patients in group 2 and 8% in group 1 (P = 0.66). The operation time was significantly greater in group 1 and the length of stay greater in group 2. There was no difference in the fall of constipation score between the groups.

Conclusion

There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of recurrence of complete rectal prolapse or postoperative improvement of symptoms between the two groups. Hospital stay was longer after Delorme's procedure but the operation time was shorter. Neither procedure proved definite superiority regarding the clinical and functional outcome at 18 months of follow‐up.
The stress response paradox: fighting degeneration at the cost of cancer
Authors: Arneaud Sonja L. B. , Douglas Peter M.
Published: May 2016

In the modern research era, sequencing and high‐throughput analysis have linked genetic factors with a multitude of disease states. Often times, the same cellular machinery is implicated in several different diseases and has made it challenging to drug a particular disease with minimal pleotropic consequences. It is intriguing to see how different fields of disease research can present such differing views when describing the same biological process, pathway, or molecule. As observations in one field converge with research in another, we gain a more complete picture of a biological system and can accurately assess the feasibility for translational science. As an example discussed here, modulating latent stress response pathways within the cell provides exciting therapeutic potential, however, opposing views have emerged in the fields of degenerative disease and cancer. This at first glance seems logical as suppression of degenerative disease entails maintaining cell viability, while cancer aims to enhance selective senescence and cell death. As both of these disciplines seek novel therapeutic interventions, we should not overlook how scientific biases involving one biological process may impact different disease paradigms.
Bombyx mori E26 transformation‐specific 2 (BmEts2), an Ets family protein, represses Bombyx mori Rels (BmRels)‐mediated promoter activation of antimicrobial peptide genes in the silkworm Bombyx mori
Authors: Tanaka H. , Sagisaka A. , Suzuki N. , Yamakawa M.
Published: May 2016

E26 transformation‐specific (Ets) family transcription factors are known to play roles in various biological phenomena, including immunity, in vertebrates. However, the mechanisms by which Ets proteins contribute to immunity in invertebrates remain poorly understood. In this study, we identified a cDNA encoding BmEts2, which is a putative orthologue of Drosophila Yan and human translocation‐ets‐leukemia/Ets‐variant gene 6, from the silkworm Bombyx mori. Expression of the BmEts2 gene was significantly increased in the fat bodies of silkworm larvae in response to injection with Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. BmEts2 overexpression dramatically repressed B. mori Rels (BmRels)‐mediated promoter activation of antimicrobial peptide genes in silkworm cells. Conversely, gene knockdown of BmEts2 significantly enhanced BmRels activity. In addition, two κB sites located on the 5′ upstream region of cecropin B1 were found to be involved in the repression of BmRels‐mediated promoter activation. Protein‐competition analysis further demonstrated that BmEts2 competitively inhibited binding of BmRels to κB sites. Overall, BmEts2 acts as a repressor of BmRels‐mediated transactivation of antimicrobial protein genes by inhibiting the binding of BmRels to κB sites.
Phylogenetic and size constrains on cranial ontogenetic allometry of spiny rats (Echimyidae, Rodentia)
Authors: Tavares W. C. , Pessôa L. M. , Seuánez H. N.
Published: May 2016

Analysis of ontogenetic development is crucial for understanding the emergence of phenotypic discrepancies between animal taxa. The study of allometric trajectories within a phylogenetic context is a feasible approach to assess the morphological change across different evolutionary lineages. Here, we report the disparity of multivariate ontogenetic allometry in the Echimyidae, a taxonomically diverse rodent family, as well as the effects of size on the evolution of skull ontogeny. The ontogenetic trajectories of 15 echimyid operational taxonomic unities (12 genera plus one genus with three species) belonging to all subfamilies and major clades, when plotted in allometric space, revealed strong and significant phylogenetic signals. Allometric trajectories were found to be constrained by phylogenetic ancestry, with changes approximately adjusting to a Brownian motion model of evolution. Moreover, the occupation of allometric space by echimyid taxa was significantly correlated with adult size rather than with shape, suggesting that the variation in adult size might result in critically intrinsic and structural constraints on allometric coefficients. These findings disagreed with the hypothesis that allometric disparities might be mainly adaptive with undetectable phylogenetic signals.
Special challenges in the conservation of fishes and aquatic environments of South America
Authors: Costa M. F. , Barletta M.
Published: May 2016

In South America, the conservation of natural resources, particularly in relation to water and aquatic fauna, is an often‐discussed issue. Unfortunately, there is still a large gap between thoughts and action. Scientists from different countries of the continent have however, produced a significant body of literature that should finally become the basis of emerging managerial models.
Racial Disparities in Cognitive Performance in Mid‐ and Late Adulthood: Analyses of Two Cohort Studies
Authors: Zahodne Laura B. , Manly Jennifer J. , Azar Martina , Brickman Adam M. , Glymour M. Maria
Published: May 2016

Objectives

To examine whether the attenuation of racial disparities observed in physical health outcomes at older ages can be extended to cognitive outcomes in mid‐ and late‐life samples.

Design

Cross‐sectional associations between race and cognitive functioning were examined as a function of age.

Setting

The National Survey of Midlife Development in the United States (MIDUS) and the Washington Heights‐Inwood Columbia Aging Project (WHICAP).

Participants

Non‐Hispanic African American or white individuals aged 40 and older (MIDUS; n = 3875, 10.5% African American) and non‐Hispanic African American or white individuals aged 65 and older without a diagnosis of dementia (WHICAP; n = 2,729, 53.8% African American).

Measurements

Composite scores of executive functioning and episodic memory.

Results

Independent of main effects of age, birth cohort, sex, education, and chronic health conditions, significant interactions between age and race indicated that racial disparities in episodic memory and executive functioning were larger at younger than older age in both samples.

Conclusion

Attenuation of racial inequalities in older age can be extended to cognitive outcomes, which probably reflects selective survival. Research on cognitive disparities or on race‐specific causes of cognitive outcomes in old age must incorporate corrections for selective survival if the goal is to identify causal predictors of cognitive outcomes rather than merely statistical predictors.
Hospitalizations During a Physical Activity Intervention in Older Adults at Risk of Mobility Disability: Analyses from the Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Marsh Anthony P. , Applegate William B. , Guralnik Jack M. , Jack Rejeski W. , Church Timothy S. , Fielding Roger A. , Gill Thomas M. , King Abby C. , Kritchevsky Stephen B. , Manini Todd M. , McDermott Mary M. , Newman Anne B. , Stowe Cynthia L. , Walkup Michael P. , Pahor Marco , Miller Michael E. ,   the LIFE Study Investigators
Published: May 2016

Objectives

To determine whether moderate‐intensity physical activity (PA) and health education (HE) are differentially associated with categories of hospitalizations or subgroups of participants.

Design

Multicenter randomized controlled trial in which participants were randomized to a PA or HE program for an average of 2.6 years.

Setting

Eight field centers.

Participants

Sedentary men and women aged 70–89 with lower extremity physical limitations but able to walk 400‐m in 15 minutes or less (N = 1,635).

Interventions

Structured, moderate‐intensity PA (n =  818) at a center (2×/wk) and at home (3–4×/wk) that included aerobic, strength, balance, and flexibility training or HE (n =  817) of educational workshops and upper extremity stretching exercises.

Measurements

All‐cause inpatient hospitalizations ascertained at 6‐month intervals.

Results

There were 1,458 hospitalizations (49.1% of PA, 44.4% of HE; risk difference = 4.68%, 95% confidence interval (CI) = −0.18–9.54; hazard ratio (HR) = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.00–1.34). The intervention effect on incident hospitalization did not differ according to race, sex, Short Physical Performance Battery score, age, or history of cardiovascular disease or diabetes mellitus. PA was associated with higher rates of hospitalization in the middle baseline gait speed category, than HE (<0.8 m/s: HR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.76–1.14; 0.8–1.0 m/s: HR = 1.54, 95% CI = 1.23–1.94; >1.0 m/s: HR = 1.05, 95% CI = 0.67–1.65; interaction P = .005).

Conclusion

A PA program in older adults at risk for mobility disability did not lead to a different risk of specific types of hospitalizations than a HE program overall. Baseline gait speed may be a marker for risk of hospitalization during a PA intervention, because individuals with moderate baseline gait speed in the PA group had slightly higher rates of hospitalization than those in the HE group.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01072500.
A Global Case‐Study Framework Applied to Water Supply and Sanitation
Authors: Duchin Faye
Published: May 2016

One goal of the local‐to‐global research program is to explore ways to reduce, if not reverse, threats to sustainability through analysis using mathematical models applied to shared databases. This article describes a global case‐study framework for reconciling top‐down with bottom‐up approaches so they are mutually reinforcing for identifying and evaluating the effectiveness of different scenarios describing potential future actions. A strategic selection of cases makes it possible to distinguish and represent concrete characteristics of both common and atypical situations, whereas a global model is needed to provide an integrating conceptual framework based on a theory of consumption, production, and international exchanges that captures interdependencies among activities across regions. I discuss how the results of global analyses can be useful for framing case‐study questions and selecting cases, whereas the cases, in turn, identify concerns of specific stakeholders and provide detailed information, including technical data, to supplement economic databases with their accounting origins. I describe ways to enhance collaborations between top‐down and bottom‐up researchers, using global, multiregional input‐output databases to play a mediating role, while avoiding rigidities of premature closure and incorporating diverse perspectives. Responding to the high‐priority global challenge of vastly expanding effective sanitation services in developing countries is used to illustrate these ideas.
Obstetric outcomes of isolated oligohydramnios during early‐term, full‐term and late‐term periods and determination of optimal timing of delivery
Authors: Karahanoglu Ertugrul , Akpinar Funda , Demirdag Erhan , Yerebasmaz Neslihan , Ensari Tugba , Akyol Aysegul , Ulubas Isik Dilek , Yalvac Serdar
Published: May 2016

Aim

Our aim was to evaluate the obstetric outcomes of isolated oligohydramnios during the early‐term, full‐term, and late‐term periods, and to determine the optimal timing of delivery.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed at a tertiary center. Isolated oligohydramnios cases were divided into early‐term, full‐term, and late‐term groups. Evaluated outcomes were fetal birthweight, 5‐min Apgar score < 7, meconium‐stained amniotic fluid, neonatal intensive care unit admission, transient tachypnea of newborn (TTN), requirement of ventilator, newborn jaundice, mode of delivery, induction of labor, and undiagnosed small‐for‐gestational‐age fetus before delivery. Composite outcome was defined as perinatal outcomes taken together (neonatal intensive care unit admission, TTN, requirement of ventilator, and newborn jaundice).

Results

The study period included 1213 cases of term isolated oligohydramnios. Within this cohort there were 347 early‐term, 781 full‐term and 85 late‐term patients. The cesarean rate and the rate of newborn jaundice were higher in early‐term cases (37.8% and 3.5%, respectively) than in full‐term cases (30.1% and 0.9%, respectively). Meconium‐stained amniotic fluid was higher in late‐term than full‐term cases. Timing of delivery did not affect occurrence of TTN, 5‐min Apgar score < 7, ventilator requirement, or composite outcome. In total, 15–17% of isolated oligohydramnios cases involved undetected small‐for‐gestational‐age fetuses.

Conclusion

As this study was not a randomized controlled trial, a decisive conclusion may not be possible. However, until well‐designed controlled studies are conducted, expectant management may be appropriate up to the full‐term period and induction of labor may be appropriate management when the full‐term period is reached.
Live‐born diploid fetus complicated with partial molar pregnancy presenting with pre‐eclampsia, maternal anemia, and seemingly huge placenta: A rare case of confined placental mosaicism and literature review
Authors: Kawasaki Kaoru , Kondoh Eiji , Minamiguchi Sachiko , Matsuda Fumihiko , Higasa Koichiro , Fujita Kohei , Mogami Haruta , Chigusa Yoshitsugu , Konishi Ikuo
Published: May 2016

A partial molar pregnancy almost always ends in miscarriage due to a triploid fetus. We describe a rare case of a singleton, partial molar pregnancy with a seemingly huge placenta, which continued to delivery of a live‐born diploid baby. A 27‐year‐old primigravida suffered from severe pre‐eclampsia and progressive anemia. The uterus was enormously enlarged for the gestational age. A cesarean section was performed because of deterioration of maternal status at 25 weeks' gestation, when more than 3000 mL blood spouted concurrently with the delivery of the placenta. The histological examination showed congestion in the decidua, which indicated disturbance of maternal venous return from the intervillous space. The chromosome complement of the placenta and the neonate were 69,XXX and 46,XX, respectively. We also reviewed all published cases of a singleton, partial molar pregnancy. A literature search yielded 18 cases of a singleton, diploid fetus with partial molar pregnancy. The mean gestational age at delivery was 24.5 ± 6.2 weeks, and fetuses survived outside the uterus in only four cases (22.2%). Intriguingly, previous reports numbered 10 cases with diploid placenta as well as five cases with no karyotyping of the placenta, indicating that they may have included a complete mole in a twin pregnancy or placental mesenchymal dysplasia. In conclusion, this was the first case of placentomegaly that presented manifestations of excessive abdominal distension and maternal severe anemia, and the second case of a singleton, partial molar pregnancy confirmed by chromosome analysis resulting in a diploid living baby.
The efficacy of amoxicillin sodium against streptococcosis in cultured olive flounder Paralichthys olivaceus and its pharmacokinetics
Authors: Lim J.‐W. , Jung M.‐H. , Jung S.‐J. , Kim D.‐H. , Park K. H. , Kang S. Y.
Published: May 2016

The efficacy of amoxicillin sodium for controlling field and experimental Streptococcus iniae and S. parauberis infections in olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) was evaluated after a single intramuscular administration. Furthermore, the minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) against 21 Streptococcus strains were determined. In addition, the pharmacokinetics and residue depletion in olive flounder were investigated. Single intramuscular doses of amoxicillin sodium at 20, 40, 80, and 160 mg/kg b.w. fish significantly reduced cumulative mortality rates to 18.8–31.3% (P < 0.05) for S. iniae and to 5.0–15.0% (P < 0.01) for S. parauberis, whereas the S. iniae‐ and S. parauberis‐infected positive control groups showed cumulative mortality rates of 68.8% and 60.0%, respectively. In a S. parauberis outbreak, amoxicillin sodium reduced the cumulative mortality rate to 7.5% and 4.8% at 20 and 40 mg/kg b.w. fish, respectively, whereas that of the untreated control group was 35.2%. Peak plasma concentrations (Cmax) following a single intramuscular dose of 40 and 80 mg/kg b.w. fish were 62.64 (Tmax, 1.59 h) and 87.61 (Tmax, 3.02 h) μg/mL, respectively, with large AUC0−t/MIC and Cmax/MIC ratios, and sufficient T > MIC (time for maintaining plasma drug concentration greater than MICs) for S. iniae and S. parauberis. The estimated withdrawal period of amoxicillin sodium from muscle of olive flounder was about 8 days at 40 mg/kg b.w. fish (at 22 ± 1 °C). These results demonstrated a single intramuscular administration of amoxicillin sodium to be effective against streptococcosis in olive flounder.
Contribution to the taxonomy of Turkish Scorzonera (Asteraceae) taxa based on vegetative anatomy
Authors: Makbul Serdar , Coşkunçelebi Kamil , Okur Seda , Gültepe Mutlu
Published: May 2016

In the present study, the general stem, root and leaf anatomical features of 59 Scorzonera L. s.l. (Asteraceae) taxa collected from Turkey are presented and evaluated by cluster and principal coordinate analysis. Numerical analyses based on 26 anatomical traits showed that arrangement of tracheal elements in the root, presence of cortical bundles, latex canals, secretory cells and aerenchyma in the stem and mesophyll are valuable for grouping Scorzonera taxa. Dendograms inferred from anatomical data were generally congruent with the traditional subgeneric classification of Scorzonera (Scorzonera L., Podospermum DC., Pseudopodospermum (Lipsch. et Krasch.) Lipsch.). However, the present study also show that the examined species may not be identified only based on the internal morphology of root, stem and leaf. In addition, the results support to treat Podospermum as a distinct genus.
A Preclinical Study of an Implanted Device in the Pulmonary Veins, Intended for the Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation in an Ovine Model
Authors: VANDECASTEELE TIM , BOUSSY TIM , PHILPOTT MATTHEW , CLEMENT ELI , SCHAUVLIEGE STIJN , VAN DEN BROECK WIM , VAN LOON GUNTHER , CORNILLIE PIETER , VAN LANGENHOVE GLENN
Published: May 2016

Background

Atrial fibrillation is the most frequent arrhythmia in adults of which the interventional cure is hampered by high recurrence rates. Recurrence after ablation is due to an incomplete isolation of the pulmonary veins. A new ablation technique was performed, in the antra of ovine pulmonary veins, by device implantation, which was heated through a wireless heat‐generating system.

Methods and Results

Implants were placed transatrially in the pulmonary veins of sheep. Using a wireless heating system, the energy was afterward transferred through wires to the implanted device according to a defined protocol. The position of the implant and the applied lesions were macroscopically evaluated. Samples of the ablated tissue of the atrio‐pulmonary vein junction were histologically and immunohistochemically examined.

Conclusions

Six ablation procedures in four sheep were successfully performed without adverse cardiac reactions. Implantation of the device and the wireless heat generation was feasible. Sufficient heat was produced at the level of the antra of the pulmonary veins to create ablation lesions, which were histologically and immunohistochemically confirmed.
Genetic mapping of the barley lodging resistance locus Erectoides‐k
Authors: Skov Kristensen Peter , Dockter Christoph , Lundqvist Udda , Lu Qiongxian , Gregersen Per L. , Thordal‐Christensen Hans , Hansson Mats
Published: May 2016

The barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) mutant erectoides‐k.32 (ert‐k.32) was isolated in 1947 from an X‐ray‐mutant population of cultivar ‘Bonus’. The mutant was released as a cultivar in 1958 with the name ‘Pallas’ – one of the first cereal crop cultivars developed from induced mutants. ‘Pallas’ is a semi‐dwarf barley cultivar known for its culm stability and resistance to lodging. In total, eight allelic ert‐k mutants are known that show different phenotypic strength concerning culm length and spike architecture. They represent alternatives to the widely used, but pleiotropic ‘Green Revolution’ alleles of the Sdw1 (semidwarf1/denso) and Uzu1 (semi‐brachytic1) genes in breeding of robust elite barley cultivars. In the present study, we locate Ert‐k to a 15.7‐cM region in the centromeric region of chromosome 6H. Although the interval is estimated to contain approximately 700 genes, the work provides a solid foundation for the identification of the underlying mutations causing the ert‐k lodging‐resistant phenotype. In addition, the linked markers could be used to follow the ert‐k mutant genotype in marker‐assisted selection of new lodging‐resistant barley cultivars.
‘They are stealing my island’: Residents’ opinions on foreign investment in the residential tourism industry in Tamarin, Mauritius
Authors: Wortman Tessa , Donaldson Ronnie , van Westen Guus
Published: May 2016

The small nation of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean, once a poor sugar plantation island, has successfully diversified and expanded its economy since independence, by attracting foreign investment in manufacturing and modern service industries. Tourism is a major part of the ‘Mauritian Miracle’; in recent years residential tourism—attracting wealthy foreigners to take up semi‐permanent residence—has become a growth industry transforming coastal areas like Tamarin. Based on in‐depth interviews among 17 residents of Tamarin, this paper looks at how local people perceive the changes residential tourism is causing in the local area. It appears that while the majority is positive about economic changes like more jobs and income opportunities, and to some extent about improvements in infrastructure and services, there are growing misgivings about some of the social impacts. Notably, the increasing scarcity of land and rising house prices are making it impossible for growing numbers of local people to afford a place to live, resulting in growing squatter settlements in the area. Such growing social disparities challenge the Mauritian development model and may undermine its stability. These undesirable effects call for careful management of tourism development, incorporation of sustainability standards and attention to the position of major stakeholder groups, such as local residents.
Hepatitis B and C serologic profiles of Canadian organ donors and recipients: retrospective 10‐year review at a single center
Authors: Burton C.E. , Doucette K.E. , Mabilangan C.A. , Plitt S.S. , Lee B.E. , Preiksaitis J.K.
Published: May 2016

Background

Hepatitis C virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are important causes of hepatitis and can be transmitted from organ donor to recipient. This study aimed to determine HBV and HCV serologic profiles of a population of Canadian solid organ transplant (SOT) donors and recipients, including prevalence of recipient HBV immunity.

Methods

Data on age, gender, organ transplanted, and pre‐transplant HBV and HCV serology for SOT donors and recipients at a Canadian hospital from 2001 to 2011 were obtained from a transplant database.

Results

There were 2455 recipients (2205 adults, 250 children), and 1559 donors. Over 50% of adult and 44% of pediatric recipients were HBV non‐immune pre‐transplant. Pediatric recipients were more likely to have HBV vaccine immunity than were adult recipients (48.8% vs. 28.9%, P < 0.001). Prevalence of HBV vaccine immunity was highest in renal recipients (48.3% in adult, 63.2% in pediatric recipients). Recipient HBV vaccine immunity increased from 5.8% in 2001 to 44.5% in 2011 (P < 0.001). Of 134 adult recipients with prior HBV infection, 59 (44%) were co‐infected with HCV. Only 0.6% of adult non‐liver recipients had acute or chronic HBV infection and 3.2% were anti‐HCV positive. Only 2 donors had acute or chronic HBV infection, 29 had prior HBV infection, 9 were isolated hepatitis B core antibody positive, and 15 were anti‐HCV positive.

Conclusions

The prevalence of HBV vaccine immunity in SOT candidates is low, but increased from 2001 to 2011. Opportunities for quality improvement in pre‐transplant HBV immunization exist. HCV co‐infection is common in recipients with prior HBV infection. Prevalence of HCV infection in non‐liver transplant recipients is low.
Ochronosis‐like condition in a cat
Authors: Bryan Laura K. , Weeks Brad R. , Payne Harold Ross , Thompson Lori A. , Mansell Joanne L.
Published: May 2016

Background

Endogenous ochronosis is caused by a defect in the enzyme homogentisate 1,2‐dioxygenase (HGD), which results in abnormal pigment deposition in the skin and urine abnormalities. Ochronosis previously has not been described histologically or ultrastructurally in a domestic animal species.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To describe the clinical, histopathological and ultrastructural findings in a case of aberrant pigmentation in a cat with features that resemble ochronosis.

Animal

A 5‐year‐old, spayed female Domestic short hair cat presented with multiple black cutaneous plaques on the face and progressive lethargy. The cat's urine turned brown when exposed to air. The familial history of the cat was unknown.

Methods

Clinical examination; histopathology, electron microscopy and mass/energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy of tissues.

Results

Septic peritonitis and additional pigment in the spleen, intestine and lymph node were found at postmortem examination. The pigment was determined to be an organic compound and had a similar histological appearance, staining properties, ultrastructure and composition to ochronotic pigment. No mutations were found in exons 3, 6, 8 and 13 of the HGD gene in the cat.

Conclusions and clinical importance

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of a condition resembling ochronosis in a domestic animal species that has been evaluated with histopathology and advanced imaging techniques. It provides an additional differential in cases of aberrant pigmentation in cats.
Lexically driven selective adaptation by ambiguous auditory stimuli occurs after limited exposure to adaptors
Authors: Llompart Miquel , Casillas Joseph V.
Published: May 2016

Limited exposure to ambiguous auditory stimuli results in perceptual recalibration. When unambiguous stimuli are used instead, selective adaptation (SA) effects have been reported, even after few adaptor presentations. Crucially, selective adaptation by an ambiguous sound in biasing lexical contexts had previously been found only after massive adaptor repetition [Samuel (2001). Psychol. Sci. 12(4), 348–351]. The present study shows that extensive exposure is not necessary for lexically driven selective adaptation to occur. Lexically driven selective adaptation can arise after as few as nine adaptor presentations. Additionally, build-up course inspection reveals several parallelisms with the time course observed for SA with unambiguous stimuli.
A Teacher-Focused Intervention to Decrease PE Students’ Amotivation by Increasing Need Satisfaction and Decreasing Need Frustration
Authors: Cheon Sung Hyeon , Reeve Johnmarshall , Song Yong-Gwan
Published: May 2016

Intervention-induced gains in need satisfaction decrease PE students’ amotivation. The present study adopted a dual-process model to test whether an intervention could also decrease need frustration and hence provide a second supplemental source to further decrease students’ PE amotivation. Using an experimental, longitudinal research design, 19 experienced PE teachers (9 experimental, 10 control) and their 1,017 students participated in an intervention program to help teachers become both more autonomy supportive and less controlling. Multilevel repeated measures analyses showed that students of teachers in the experimental group reported greater T2, T3, and T4 perceived autonomy support, need satisfaction, and engagement and lesser T2, T3, and T4 perceived teacher control, need frustration, and amotivation than did students of teachers in the control group. Multilevel structural equation modeling analyses confirmed the hypothesized dual-process model in which both intervention-induced increases in need satisfaction and intervention-induced decreases need frustration decreased students’ end-of-semester amotivation. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of this new finding on the dual antecedents of diminished amotivation.
Research shows gun owners support gun-violence prevention
Authors: O'Neil Kathleen
Published: May 2016

With federal funding of firearm injury prevention stalled, a top scientist says policies to reduce gun violence not as polarizing as politicians may think
Webinar | Key signaling pathways in cancer: Links to developmental biology
Authors: Fuchs Elaine , Allen Benjamin L. , Derynck Rik
Published: May 2016

It is notable that the same pathways governing the cell growth, death, and differentiation decisions made during embryonic development are also common drivers of adult malignancy. In this webinar, we will explore the idea that a better understanding of developmental biology signaling pathways will advance our understanding of adult tumors and cancer stem cells as well as boost our ability to create effective therapeutics to fight a broad array of cancers.
Bloch state tomography using Wilson lines
Authors: Li Tracy , Duca Lucia , Reitter Martin , Grusdt Fabian , Demler Eugene , Endres Manuel , Schleier-Smith Monika , Bloch Immanuel , Schneider Ulrich
Published: May 2016

Cold atoms do geometry

Electrons in solids populate energy bands, which can be simulated in cold atom systems using optical lattices. The geometry of the corresponding wave functions determines the topological properties of the system, but getting a direct look is tricky. Fläschner
et al.
and Li
et al.
measured the detailed structure of the band wave functions in hexagonal optical lattices, one resembling a boron-nitride and the other a graphene lattice. These techniques will make it possible to explore more complex situations that include the effects of interactions.

Science
, this issue pp.
1091
and
1094
An ice age recorded in the polar deposits of Mars
Authors: Smith Isaac B. , Putzig Nathaniel E. , Holt John W. , Phillips Roger J.
Published: May 2016

Evidence for ice ages on Mars

Models predict that Mars should have undergone ice ages in the past, but evidence has been scant. Smith
et al.
used radar measurements from NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter to probe the planet's polar ice caps. Clear layers within the ice allowed them to calculate how much ice was deposited at different times. The results provide evidence for a recent ice age on Mars. Understanding the martian climate will help determine when the planet was habitable in the past, and how that changed, and may inform studies of climate change on Earth.

Science
, this issue p.
1075
Matching markets in the digital age
Authors: Azevedo Eduardo M. , Weyl E. Glen
Published: May 2016

Digital markets make it easier to match companies and customers
Inhibitory Antibodies Targeting Emerging Viruses: Advancements and Mechanisms
Authors: Jin Jing , Simmons Graham
Published: May 2016

From Ebola virus outbreaks in Western Africa to the introduction of chikungunya and Zika viruses in the Americas, new and neglected viruses continue to emerge and spread around the world. Due to a lack of existing vaccines or specific therapeutics, little other than supportive care and attempts to interrupt transmission can be provided during initial outbreaks. This has prompted a shift in vaccine design and development to identify novel epitopes and mechanisms of protection that may offer a broader range of protection against groups or whole families of viruses. Receptor-binding domains and other motifs within viral envelope proteins represent one excellent opportunity to target communal epitopes shared by related viruses. Similarly, for viruses where envelope participates in driving viral egress from infected cells, shared epitopes need to be identified to guide the development of broadly protective antibodies and vaccines. Here, we discuss recent advances in our understanding of broadly protective humoral responses for emerging viruses.