bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survival of Afro‐Palaearctic passerine migrants in western Europe and the impacts of seasonal weather variables
Authors: Johnston Alison , Robinson Robert A. , Gargallo Gabriel , Julliard Romain , van der Jeugd Henk , Baillie Stephen R.
Published: March 2016

Populations of migratory songbirds in western Europe show considerable variation in population trends between species and regions. The demographic and environmental causes of these large‐scale patterns are poorly understood. Using data from Constant Effort mist‐netting studies, we investigated relationships between changes in abundance, adult survival and seasonal weather conditions among 35 western European populations of eight species of migratory warblers (Sylviidae). We used cross‐species and within‐species comparisons to assess whether annual variation in survival was correlated with weather conditions during passage or winter. We estimated survival using CJS mark‐recapture models accounting for variation in the proportion of transient individuals and recapture rates. Species wintering in the humid bioclimatic zone of western Africa had significantly higher annual survival probabilities than species wintering in the arid bioclimatic zone of Africa (the Sahel). Rainfall in the Sahel was positively correlated with survival in at least some populations of five species. We found substantially fewer significant relationships with indices of weather during the autumn and spring passage periods, which may be due to the use of broad‐scale indices. Annual population changes were correlated with adult survival in all of our study species, although species undergoing widespread declines showed the weakest relationships.
Long‐term changes in the migration phenology of UK breeding birds detected by large‐scale citizen science recording schemes
Authors: Newson Stuart E. , Moran Nick J. , Musgrove Andy J. , Pearce‐Higgins James W. , Gillings Simon , Atkinson Philip W. , Miller Ryan , Grantham Mark J. , Baillie Stephen R.
Published: March 2016

The timing of migration is one of the key life‐history parameters of migratory birds. It is expected to be under strong selection, to be sensitive to changing environmental conditions and to have implications for population dynamics. However, most phenological studies do not describe arrival and departure phenologies for a species in a way that is robust to potential biases, or that can be clearly related to breeding populations. This hampers our ability to understand more fully how climate change may affect species’ migratory strategies, their life histories and ultimately their population dynamics. Using generalized additive models (GAMs) and extensive large‐scale data collected in the UK over a 40‐year period, we present standardized measures of migration phenology for common migratory birds, and examine how the phenology of bird migration has changed in the UK since the 1960s. Arrival dates for 11 of 14 common migrants became significantly earlier, with six species advancing their arrival by more than 10 days. These comprised two species, Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla and Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita, which winter closest to Britain in southern Europe and the arid northern zone of Africa, Common Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus, which winters in the arid zone, and three hirundines (Sand Martin Riparia riparia, House Martin Delichon urbicum and Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica), which winter in different parts of Africa. Concurrently, departure dates became significantly later for four of the 14 species and included species that winter in southern Europe (Blackcap and Chiffchaff) and in humid zones of Africa (Garden Warbler Sylvia borin and Whinchat Saxicola rubetra). Common Swift Apus apus was the exception in departing significantly earlier. The net result of earlier arrival and later departure for most species was that length of stay has become significantly longer for nine of the 14 species. Species that have advanced their timing of arrival showed the most positive trends in abundance, in accordance with previous studies. Related in part to earlier arrival and the relationship above, we also show that species extending their stay in Great Britain have shown the most positive trends. Further applications of our modelling approach will provide opportunities for more robust tests of relationships between phenological change and population dynamics than have been possible previously.
Use of micro‐computed tomography for the assessment of periapical lesions in small rodents: a systematic review
Authors: Kalatzis‐Sousa N. G. , Spin‐Neto R. , Wenzel A. , Tanomaru‐Filho M. , Faria G.
Published: March 2016

This systematic review aimed to evaluate the literature on the acquisition‐, reconstruction‐ and analysis parameters of micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT) for the assessment of periapical lesions in rats and mice, and to illustrate the effect of variation in these parameters. The PubMed database was searched from 2000 to January 2015 (English‐language publications) for reports on the use of micro‐CT to evaluate periapical lesions in rats and mice. QUADAS criteria were used to rate the quality of the studies. To illustrate the effect of variations in acquisition‐, reconstruction‐, and analysis parameters on images of periapical lesions, micro‐CT examination of two hemi‐mandibles of mice, with periapical lesions around the first molar was undertaken. Twenty‐one studies were identified, which analysed periapical lesions in rats or mice using micro‐CT. According to the QUADAS, no study was classified as high‐, seven were classified as moderate‐, and 14 as low quality. The effect of variation in parameters was that voxel size may interfere with image sharpness, reconstruction may interfere with image sharpness and contrast, and inadequate plane orientation may alter the size of the periapical lesion. Nonpersonalized ROIs resulted in areas that were not part of the periapical lesion. Changing the limits of the threshold for bone‐tissue visualization increased lesion size. There is no defined protocol for acquiring and analysing micro‐CT images of periapical lesions in rats and mice. Furthermore, acquisition‐, reconstruction‐ and analysis parameters are not adequately explained, which may compromise the scientific impact of the studies.
Inequality and childhood overweight and obesity: a commentary
Authors: Ulijaszek S. J. , Pentecost M. , Marcus C. , Karpe F. , Frühbeck G. , Nowicka P.
Published: March 2016

Statements on childhood overweight and obesity (COO) have focused on different avenues for prevention and treatment, critical stages of the life cycle, including pregnancy and lactation, individual, family, school and community‐based interventions, multidisciplinary family programmes and multicomponent interventions. This commentary is concerned with the less‐addressed relationship between COO and inequality. It describes current global patterns of inequality and COO and the ways in which those inequalities are linked to COO at micro‐level, meso‐level and macro‐level. It then describes current programmatic approaches for COO inequality, preventive and medical, and considers important pitfalls in the framing of the problem of COO and inequality. It ends with describing how childhood and adolescent overweight and obesity prevention and treatment programmes might be formulated within broader socio‐political frameworks to influence outcomes.
Evaluation of a pharmacist-led hypertension preventative and detection service in the Ghanaian community pharmacy: an exploratory study
Authors: Marfo Afia F A , Owusu-Daaku Frances T
Published: March 2016

Objectives

The objective of the study was to explore the feasibility and acceptability of a pharmacist-led hypertension preventative service in the community pharmacy.

Methods

This was an exploratory uncontrolled pre–post intervention study conducted from February 2012 – March 2013 in three community pharmacies in Ghana. Clients at risk for hypertension were identified and screened by the Medicine Counter Assistant (MCA). Those whose blood pressure was above 140/90 (stage 1 and 2 hypertension) were referred to the pharmacist for further assessment and referral to the physician as necessary. Participant awareness of risk and changes in the lifestyle was assessed at baseline and 6-month follow-up respectively.

Key findings

Out of 250 clients approached, 170 agreed to be screened. Forty three (25%) were pre-hypertensive, 42 (25%) had stage 1 hypertension and 13 (8%) had stage 2 hypertension. The most frequent modifiable risk factors identified were lack of exercise 107 (63%), poor diet (42%) and obesity (21%). Lifestyle changes reported at 6 months by participants with pre-hypertension were weight reduction and reduced alcohol intake. Of the 34 participants who were referred to the physician, 10 (29%) were diagnosed with hypertension and an antihypertensive was prescribed.

Conclusions

Hypertension preventative services offered in the Ghanaian community pharmacy are acceptable to clients. The findings suggest that pharmacists can detect hypertension and promote some lifestyle changes among clients with pre-hypertension. A larger controlled study is needed to confirm these findings. Ultimately guidelines and polices to streamline these services would be needed if such services were made routinely available in community pharmacies in Ghana.
Viable influenza A virus in airborne particles expelled during coughs versus exhalations
Authors: Lindsley William G. , Blachere Francoise M. , Beezhold Donald H. , Thewlis Robert E. , Noorbakhsh Bahar , Othumpangat Sreekumar , Goldsmith William T. , McMillen Cynthia M. , Andrew Michael E. , Burrell Carmen N. , Noti John D.
Published: March 2016

Background

To prepare for a possible influenza pandemic, a better understanding of the potential for the airborne transmission of influenza from person to person is needed.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to directly compare the generation of aerosol particles containing viable influenza virus during coughs and exhalations.

Methods

Sixty‐one adult volunteer outpatients with influenza‐like symptoms were asked to cough and exhale three times into a spirometer. Aerosol particles produced during coughing and exhalation were collected into liquid media using aerosol samplers. The samples were tested for the presence of viable influenza virus using a viral replication assay (VRA).

Results

Fifty‐three test subjects tested positive for influenza A virus. Of these, 28 (53%) produced aerosol particles containing viable influenza A virus during coughing, and 22 (42%) produced aerosols with viable virus during exhalation. Thirteen subjects had both cough aerosol and exhalation aerosol samples that contained viable virus, 15 had positive cough aerosol samples but negative exhalation samples, and 9 had positive exhalation samples but negative cough samples.

Conclusions

Viable influenza A virus was detected more often in cough aerosol particles than in exhalation aerosol particles, but the difference was not large. Because individuals breathe much more often than they cough, these results suggest that breathing may generate more airborne infectious material than coughing over time. However, both respiratory activities could be important in airborne influenza transmission. Our results are also consistent with the theory that much of the aerosol containing viable influenza originates deep in the lungs.
From varices to venous ulceration: the story of chronic venous disease described by metalloproteinases
Authors: Serra Raffaele , Gallelli Luca , Butrico Lucia , Buffone Gianluca , Caliò Francesco G , De Caridi Giovanni , Massara Mafalda , Barbetta Andrea , Amato Bruno , Labonia Miriam , Mimmi Selena , Iaccino Enrico , de Franciscis Stefano
Published: March 2016

Chronic venous disease (CVD) and its most frightening complication, chronic venous ulceration (CVU), represent an important socioeconomic burden in the western world. Metalloproteinases have been identified in the pathogenesis of several vascular diseases such as venous problems. The aim of this study was to evaluate a broad range of metalloproteinases, such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), ADAMs (a disintegrin and metalloproteinases) and ADAMTSs (a disintegrin and metalloproteinases with thrombospondin motifs) and their inhibitors, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) and a related protein, neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL), in patients with CVD in order to correlate their serum levels with each stage of the disease. We performed a multicenter open‐label study that comprised the enrolment of 541 patients with CVD of clinical stages C1–C6, (178 males, 363 females; mean age 57·29, median age 53·72, age range 29–81); 29 subjects without CVD were included in this study (9 males and 20 females; mean age 54·44, median age 50, age range 28–84) as the control group. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed for measuring serum levels of proteases and related proteins. The study found that the serum elevation of MMP‐2, ADAMTS‐1 and ADAMTS‐7 appeared to be correlated with the initial stages of CVD, whereas the serum elevation of MMP‐1, MMP‐8, MMP‐9, NGAL, ADAM‐10, ADAM‐17 and ADAMTS‐4 was particularly involved in skin change complications. This study showed that each stage of CVD may be described by particular patterns of metalloproteinases, and this may have therapeutic implications in discovering new targets and new drugs for the treatment of CVD.
Effect of Carbon‐Based Materials on the Early Hydration of Tricalcium Silicate
Authors: Sobolkina Anastasia , Mechtcherine Viktor , Bergold Sebastian T. , Neubauer Jürgen , Bellmann Cornelia , Khavrus Vyacheslav , Oswald Steffen , Leonhardt Albrecht , Reschetilowski Wladimir
Published: March 2016

Two types of carbon‐based materials, i.e., mesoporous carbon and HNO3‐oxidized carbon nanotubes, with nearly the same specific surface area and abundant in surface oxygen‐containing functional groups were selected in order to examine their effect on the hydration of tricalcium silicate (C3S), the main portland cement component, in early stages. Different methods, including XPS and TG‐MS analyses, electrokinetic potential measurements, as well as determination of adsorption capacity for calcium ions from aqueous solutions, were used to investigate the physicochemical surface properties of the selected carbon‐based materials. It was found that the carbon‐based materials with high specific surface area and rich in oxygen‐containing functional groups on their surfaces have a catalytic effect on early C3S hydration. It was observed that the modification of C3S paste with the selected materials added in high concentrations (1 wt% and higher) led to an increase in the rate and degree of C3S hydration in the early stages. The mechanism of early C3S hydration accelerated by carbon‐based materials rich in surface functional groups was clarified by the example of the mesoporous carbon. It was found that the oxygen‐containing functional groups present on the carbon surface have both an influence on the content of calcium ions in the aqueous phase of the C3S paste and an indirect positive effect in relation to the specific surface of C3S.
Ferrite‐Based Exchange‐Coupled Hard–Soft Magnets Fabricated by Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Jenuš Petra , Topole Martin , McGuiness Paul , Granados‐Miralles Cecilia , Stingaciu Marian , Christensen Mogens , Kobe Spomenka , Žužek Rožman Kristina
Published: March 2016

Ferrite‐based, hard‐soft magnetic nanocomposites with the composition (100%−x)SrFe12O19–xCoFe2O4, where x = 5, 10, and 15 wt%, were prepared by mixing the constituent powders, followed by spark plasma sintering. In order to control the particle size of the constituent materials, the SrFe12O19 and CoFe2O4 powders were synthesized using the hydrothermal method, mixed and then consolidated with spark plasma sintering. The conditions during the spark plasma sintering process (sintering temperature, time, and applied pressure) were varied in order to prepare composites with a high density and exchange‐coupled hard and soft magnetic phases, leading to an increase in the maximum energy product, when compared with pure SrFe12O19. The microstructural analysis revealed that the relative density of the sintered composite exceeded 90% of the theoretical value and that the CoFe2O4 was uniformly distributed in the SrFe12O19 matrix. Magnetic measurements of the sintered composites showed a single‐phase magnetic behavior. When compared with the single‐phase SrFe12O19 used in this study, the SPS composites exhibited a 22% increase in the maximum energy product (26.1 kJ/m3).
Low‐dose radiation prevents type 1 diabetes‐induced cardiomyopathy via activation of AKT mediated anti‐apoptotic and anti‐oxidant effects
Authors: Zhang Fangfang , Lin Xiufei , Yu Lechu , Li Weihua , Qian Dingliang , Cheng Peng , He Luqing , Yang Hong , Zhang Chi
Published: March 2016

We investigated whether low‐dose radiation (LDR) can prevent late‐stage diabetic cardiomyopathy and whether this protection is because of the induction of anti‐apoptotic and anti‐oxidant pathways. Streptozotocin‐induced diabetic C57BL/6J mice were treated with/without whole‐body LDR (12.5, 25, or 50 mGy) every 2 days. Twelve weeks after onset of diabetes, cardiomyopathy was diagnosed characterized by significant cardiac dysfunction, hypertrophy and histopathological abnormalities associated with increased oxidative stress and apoptosis, which was prevented by LDR (25 or 50 mGy only). Low‐dose radiation‐induced cardiac protection also associated with P53 inactivation, enhanced Nrf2 function and improved Akt activation. Next, for the mechanistic study, mouse primary cardiomyocytes were treated with high glucose (33 mmol/l) for 24 hrs and during the last 15 hrs bovine serum albumin‐conjugated palmitate (62.5 μmol/l) was added into the medium to mimic diabetes, and cells were treated with LDR (25 mGy) every 6 hrs during the whole process of HG/Pal treatment. Data show that blocking Akt/MDM2/P53 or Akt/Nrf2 pathways with small interfering RNA of akt, mdm2 and nrf2 not only prevented LDR‐induced anti‐apoptotic and anti‐oxidant effects but also prevented LDR‐induced suppression on cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and fibrosis against HG/Pal. Low‐dose radiation prevented diabetic cardiomyopathy by improving cardiac function and hypertrophic remodelling attributed to Akt/MDM2/P53‐mediated anti‐apoptotic and Akt/Nrf2‐mediated anti‐oxidant pathways simultaneously.
Phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cells in the ‘normal region’ of aorta from atherosclerosis patients is regulated by miR‐145
Authors: Zhang Yu‐nan , Xie Bao‐dong , Sun Lu , Chen Wei , Jiang Shu‐Lin , Liu Wei , Bian Fei , Tian Hai , Li Ren‐Ke
Published: March 2016

Switching of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) from a contractile phenotype to an adverse proliferative phenotype is a hallmark of atherosclerosis or vascular restenosis. However, the genetic modulators responsible for this switch have not been fully elucidated in humans nor have they been correlated with clinical abnormalities. This study investigated genetic mechanisms involved in phenotypic switching of VSMCs at non‐defect areas of the aorta in patients with atherosclerosis. Aortic wall samples were obtained from patients with (N = 53) and without (N = 27) atherosclerosis undergoing cardiovascular surgery. Vascular smooth muscle cell cultures were generated, and expression of microRNA‐145 (miR‐145), its target gene Kruppel‐Like Factor 5 (KLF5) and Myocardin (MYOCD, a smooth muscle‐specific transcriptional coactivator) were analysed using RT‐qPCR, along with expression of relevant proteins. Vascular smooth muscle cells were transduced with miR‐145 inhibitor and mimic to determine the effect of miR‐145 expression on VSMC proliferation. miR‐145 expression decreased while KLF5 expression increased in atherosclerotic aortas. Atherosclerotic samples and VSMCs had decreased expression of contractile markers calponin and alpha smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) and MYOCD. miR‐145 inhibitor‐transduced VSMCs from non‐atherosclerotic patients showed decreased expression of calponin and α‐SMA and increased proliferation compared with non‐transduced controls, and these levels were close to those of atherosclerotic patients. miR‐145 mimic‐transduced VSMCs from atherosclerotic patients showed increased expression of calponin and α‐SMA and decreased proliferation compared with non‐transduced controls, and these levels were close to those found in non‐atherosclerotic patients. These data demonstrate that miR‐145 modulates the phenotypic switch of VSMCs from a contractile to a proliferative state via KLF5 and MYOCD in atherosclerosis.
Effects of short‐chain acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase on cardiomyocyte apoptosis
Authors: Zeng Zhenhua , Huang Qiuju , Shu Zhaohui , Liu Peiqing , Chen Shaorui , Pan Xuediao , Zang Linquan , Zhou Sigui
Published: March 2016

Short‐chain acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase (SCAD), a key enzyme of fatty acid β‐oxidation, plays an important role in cardiac hypertrophy. However, its effect on the cardiomyocyte apoptosis remains unknown. We aimed to determine the role of SCAD in tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (tBHP)‐induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis. The mRNA and protein expression of SCAD were significantly down‐regulated in the cardiomyocyte apoptosis model. Inhibition of SCAD with siRNA‐1186 significantly decreased SCAD expression, enzyme activity and ATP content, but obviously increased the content of free fatty acids. Meanwhile, SCAD siRNA treatment triggered the same apoptosis as cardiomyocytes treated with tBHP, such as the increase in cell apoptotic rate, the activation of caspase3 and the decrease in the Bcl‐2/Bax ratio, which showed that SCAD may play an important role in primary cardiomyocyte apoptosis. The changes of phosphonate AMP‐activated protein kinase α (p‐AMPKα) and Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor α (PPARα) in cardiomyocyte apoptosis were consistent with that of SCAD. Furthermore, PPARα activator fenofibrate and AMPKα activator AICAR treatment significantly increased the expression of SCAD and inhibited cardiomyocyte apoptosis. In conclusion, for the first time our findings directly demonstrated that SCAD may be as a new target to prevent cardiomyocyte apoptosis through the AMPK/PPARα/SCAD signal pathways.
Growth differentiation factor 15 is a promising diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in colorectal cancer
Authors: Li Chen , Wang Xiaobing , Casal Ignacio , Wang Jingyu , Li Peiwei , Zhang Wei , Xu Enping , Lai Maode , Zhang Honghe
Published: March 2016

Although various studies have demonstrated that growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) might be a potential diagnostic and prognostic marker in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients, the results are inconsistent and the statistical power of individual studies is also insufficient. An original study was conducted to explore the diagnostic and prognostic value of serum GDF15 in CRC patients. We also conducted a meta‐analysis study which aimed to summarize the diagnostic and prognostic performance of serum GDF15 in CRC. We searched PubMed and ISI Web of Knowledge up to 1 November 2014 for eligible studies. In order to explore the diagnostic performance of GDF15, standardized mean difference (SMD) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated and receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed. For prognostic meta‐analysis, study‐specific hazard ratios (HRs) of serum GDF15 for survival were summarized. A total of eight studies were included in the meta‐analyses. Our results revealed that serum GDF15 levels in CRC patients were higher than those in healthy controls (SMD = 1.08, 95% CI: 0.56–1.59, P < 0.001). For discriminating CRC from healthy controls, the AUC of GDF15 was 0.816 (95% CI: 0.792–0.838). The sensitivity and specificity were 58.9% (95% CI: 55.0–62.8) and 92.08% (95% CI: 89.2–94.4), respectively, when a cut‐off value of 1099 pg/ml was established. Besides, higher GDF15 expression level was associated with worse overall survival for CRC patients (pooled HR = 2.09, 95% CI: 1.47–2.96). In conclusion, the present meta‐analysis suggests that serum GDF15 may be a useful diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for CRC.
Increased autophagy is required to protect periodontal ligament stem cells from apoptosis in inflammatory microenvironment
Authors: An Ying , Liu Wenjia , Xue Peng , Zhang Yongjie , Wang Qintao , Jin Yan
Published: March 2016

Objective

Autophagy, which provides a mechanism for turnover cellular organelles and proteins through a lysosome‐dependent degradation pathway, has been related to the pathogenesis of inflammatory disorders and other diseases. Therefore, the aim of this research was to study the role of autophagy in periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) and provide a new strategy for treatment or prevention of periodontitis.

Methods

We used immunohistochemistry to detect the LC3 expression in periodontal ligament (PDL) tissues from patients with (n = 20) or without (n = 20) periodontitis. To further investigate the mechanism of autophagy, the PDLSCs were divided into three groups: H‐PDLSCs, P‐PDLSCs and I‐PDLSCs. The level of autophagy in PDLSCs was evaluated by qRT‐PCR and Western blot. LC3‐positive points were assessed by immunofluorescence, and the autophagic vacuoles (AVs) were observed by transmission electron microscope.

Results

We found a higher level of autophagy in gene expression and autophagosome production of PDL tissues from periodontitis patients. Furthermore, there were higher protein levels of LC3, Beclin‐1, Atg7 and Atg12 in P‐PDLSCs and I‐PDLSCs. We also detected LC3‐positive points and AVs in P‐PDLSCs and I‐PDLSCs. The activation of autophagy may protect PDLSCs from apoptosis.

Conclusion

The results indicate that the modulation of autophagy in P‐PDLSCs may provide a novel therapeutic strategy to improve periodontal therapy.
Mechanisms of fat‐induced gastric inhibitory polypeptide/glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide secretion from K cells
Authors: Yamane Shunsuke , Harada Norio , Inagaki Nobuya
Published: March 2016

Gastric inhibitory polypeptide/glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) is one of the incretins, which are gastrointestinal hormones released in response to nutrient ingestion and potentiate glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion. Single fat ingestion stimulates GIP secretion from enteroendocrine K cells; chronic high‐fat diet (HFD) loading enhances GIP secretion and induces obesity in mice in a GIP‐dependent manner. However, the mechanisms of GIP secretion from K cells in response to fat ingestion and GIP hypersecretion in HFD‐induced obesity are not well understood. We generated GIP‐green fluorescent protein knock‐in (GIPgfp/+) mice, in which K cells are labeled by enhanced GIP‐green fluorescent protein. Microarray analysis of isolated K cells from GIPgfp/+ mice showed that both fatty acid‐binding protein 5 and G protein‐coupled receptor 120 are highly expressed in K cells. Single oral administration of fat resulted in significant reduction of GIP secretion in both fatty acid‐binding protein 5‐ and G protein‐coupled receptor 120‐deficient mice, showing that fatty acid‐binding protein 5 and G protein‐coupled receptor 120 are involved in acute fat‐induced GIP secretion. Furthermore, the transcriptional factor, regulatory factor X6 (Rfx6), is highly expressed in K cells. In vitro experiments using the mouse enteroendocrine cell line, STC‐1, showed that GIP messenger ribonucleic acid levels are upregulated by Rfx6. Expression levels of Rfx6 messenger ribonucleic acid as well as that of GIP messenger ribonucleic acid were augmented in the K cells of HFD‐induced obese mice, in which GIP content in the small intestine is increased compared with that in lean mice fed a control diet. These results suggest that Rfx6 is involved in hypersecretion of GIP in HFD‐induced obese conditions by increasing GIP gene expression.
Risk of second primary malignancies among 1537 melanoma patients and risk of second primary melanoma among 52 354 cancer patients in Northern Italy
Authors: Caini S. , Radice D. , Tosti G. , Spadola G. , Cocorocchio E. , Ferrucci P.F. , Testori A. , Pennacchioli E. , Fargnoli M.C. , Palli D. , Bazolli B. , Botteri E. , Gandini S.
Published: March 2016

Background

The number of melanoma survivors has been increasing for decades due to early diagnosis and improved survival. These patients have an increased risk of developing a second primary cancer (SPC); also, melanoma is frequently diagnosed among patients firstly diagnosed with an extracutaneous malignancy.

Objective

We evaluated the risk of developing a SPC among 1537 melanoma patients, and the risk of second primary melanoma (SPM) in 52 354 extracutaneous cancer patients, who were treated at the European Institute of Oncology in Milan, Italy, during 2000–2010.

Material and methods

We calculated standardized incidence ratios (SIR) by applying gender‐, age‐, year‐ and region‐specific reference rates to the follow‐up time accrued between the diagnosis of the first and the second primary malignancies.

Results

Seventy‐six SPC were diagnosed during a median follow‐up of 4 years, of which 49 (64%) during the first 2 years upon melanoma diagnosis. The SIR was increased for cancer of breast (4.10, 95% CI 2.79–6.03), thyroid (4.67, 95% CI 1.94–11.22), brain (6.13, 95% CI 2.30–16.33) and for non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (3.12, 95% CI 1.30–7.50). During a median follow‐up of 4 years, 127 SPM were diagnosed: thick lesions were less frequent than for melanoma diagnosed as first cancer. The SIR was increased for cancer of breast (5.13, 95%CI 3.91–6.73), thyroid (16.2, 95%CI: 5.22–50.2), head and neck (5.62, 95%CI 1.41–22.50), soft tissue (8.68, 95%CI 2.17–34.70), cervix (12.5, 95% CI 3.14–50.20), kidney (3.19, 95%CI 1.52–6.68), prostate (4.36, 95%CI 2.63–7.24) and acute myeloid leukaemia (6.44, 95%CI 2.42–17.20).

Conclusions

The most likely causes of these associations are the clustering of lifestyle risk factors in the same subgroups of population, mainly on a sociocultural basis and surveillance bias. This raises important questions about how to best follow cancer survivors by avoiding an inefficient use of resources and an excessive medicalization of these patients' lives.
High Pressure Extraction of Astaxanthin from Shrimp Waste (Penaeus Vannamei Boone): Effect on Yield and Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Li Jianping , Sun Wei , Ramaswamy Hosahalli S. , Yu Yong , Zhu Songming , Wang Jing , Li Huanhuan
Published: March 2016

High pressure extraction (HPE) of astaxanthin from shrimp (Penaeus Vannamei Boone) waste at different pressure (0.1–600 MPa) and holding times (0–20 min), and with different solvents (acetone, dichloromethane and ethanol) and solvent to solid ratios (10–50 mL/g) was evaluated, and extraction yields and quality of the extracts were determined. Antioxidant activity of the extract from HPE and conventional solvent extraction (at ambient pressure) were compared based on DPPH (1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl) and superoxide anion radical of scavenging potentials. Besides, surfaces of shrimp shells following different treatments were characterized by scanning electron microscopy. The results revealed that (1) HPE resulted in a higher extraction yield of astaxanthin and required shorter extraction times, (2) ethanol as solvent and a solvent to solid ratio of 20 mL/g was a good combination for HPE for high extraction yield of astaxanthin and (3) HPE extraction resulted in a better antioxidant activity in the extract than conventional solvent extraction.

Practical Applications

This study is focused on the evaluations of the extraction yield and antioxidant activity of astaxanthin from shrimp waste by high pressure. The high pressure extraction (HPE) technology is very promising because of higher yield and antioxidant activity and would help to facilitate further utilization of shrimp waste as a source of natural antioxidants in food and pharmaceutical industries, replacing artificial chemical antioxidants.© 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc
Effect of Different Thermal Treatments on Grinding Characteristics, Granular Morphology and Yield of Ready‐to‐Eat Wheat Grits
Authors: Raigar Rakesh K. , Prabhakar Pramod K. , Srivastav Prem P.
Published: March 2016

Ready‐to‐eat wheat grits are highly fibrous food product which was prepared from wheat by using different thermal treatments (Parboiling, pressure parboiling and roasting methods). The effects of these treatments on hardness, alkali spreading value (ASV), granular morphology, protein digestibility (PD), grit yield, grinding constants and specific power consumption (SPC) were studied. However, the particle size distribution, grinding constants and SPC were also studied with the different feed rates of each experiment. The maximum grits yield (77%), SPC (0.061 kWh/kg), hardness (6.67 kg), were found in pressure parboiling. The highest PD (78 %) and ASV were observed in roasting method. Although, a significant variation was found in grinding constants with the different feed rates and heat treatments. The roasting method was found to have overall desired values of PD (78%), granular morphology, ASV (7), hardness (3.21 kg) and SPC (0.040 kWh/kg).

Practical Applications

Ready‐to‐eat wheat grits are highly fibrous food product and prepared from wheat by using different thermal treatments. It plays an important role in addressing the constipation problems. The power consumption and product quality are key parameters for producer and consumer. This study has generated sound thermal processing and energy consumption data and health benefits which can be used by food industries and consumers.
Denture‐induced stomatitis and associated factors in a group of patients attending a university dental hospital in Sri Lanka
Authors: Thilakumara Indika P. , Jayatilake Jayalath A.M.S. , Pallegama Ranjith W. , Ellepola Arjuna N.B.
Published: March 2016

Aim

The aim of the present study was to investigate factors associated with denture‐induced stomatitis (DIS) among denture wearers and their oral and hand carriage of Candida.

Methods

Sociodemographics and denture and oral hygiene practices were investigated using an interviewer‐administered questionnaire in denture wearers with DIS (n = 60) and without DIS (n = 60) selected using a convenience sampling of patients attending the Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. Denture and oral hygiene practices and denture quality were scored. DIS and denture hygiene were classified. Oral and hand carriage of Candida was assessed.

Results

Middle‐aged females were more prone to DIS. The most common DIS pattern was Newton type ΙΙ. The mean age of existing denture of DIS patients was significantly higher than the control. Denture hygiene practice was significantly low in DIS patients. Poor denture hygiene practice and sleep wear of dentures were significantly associated with DIS. The risk of Candida hand carriage in a DIS patient carrying oral Candida was significantly higher than the risk of Candida hand carriage in a healthy denture wearer who carried oral Candida.

Conclusion

Old dentures, poor denture hygiene, and sleep wear of dentures might contribute to DIS. Oral Candida in denture wearers could lead to Candida hand carriage.
Cellular cannibalism in giant cells of central giant cell granuloma of jaw bones and giant cell tumors of long bones
Authors: Sarode Gargi S. , Sarode Sachin C. , Gawande Shailesh , Patil Snehal , Anand Rahul , Patil Shankar Gouda , Patil Prakash
Published: March 2016

Aim

The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship of central giant cell granuloma (CGCG) and giant cell tumor of long bones (GCT) with respect to cannibalistic giant cells (GCs).

Method

Sixteen cases each of CGCG and GCT were histopathologically analyzed for cannibalistic GCs. One hundred GCs were examined in each section, and the number of cannibalistic GCs was expressed in percentage.

Results

Cannibalistic GCs were seen in all cases of CGCG and GCT (100%). GCT showed significantly higher mean cannibalistic GC frequency (44.81 ± 1.013) than CGCG (32.06 ± 1.398), aggressive CGCG (38.17 ± 1.579), non‐aggressive CGCG (28.40 ± 0.6360), non‐recurrent CGCG (30.42 ± 1.417), and recurrent CGCG (37.00 ± 2.483). In aggressive CGCG, the mean cannibalistic GC frequency was significantly higher (38.17 ± 1.579) than the non‐aggressive variant (28.40 ± 0.6360). Recurrent CGCG cases showed significantly higher mean cannibalistic GC frequency (37.00 ± 2.483) than non‐recurrent cases (30.42 ± 1.417). Similarly, recurrent GCT showed significantly higher mean cannibalistic GC frequency (47.4 ± 4.97) than non‐recurrent GCT (43.63 ± 3.1).

Conclusion

The distinctness of CGCG and GCT was observed in terms of mean cannibalistic GC count. The assessment of cannibalistic GC in CGCG and GCT could help in predicting the biological behavior and grading of the tumor.
Wheat ear carbon assimilation and nitrogen remobilization contribute significantly to grain yield
Authors: Zhou Bangwei , Serret Maria Dolores , Elazab Abdelhalim , Bort Pie Jordi , Araus José Luis , Aranjuelo Iker , Sanz‐Sáez Álvaro
Published: March 2016

The role of wheat ears as a source of nitrogen (N) and carbon (C) in the grain filling process has barely been studied. To resolve this question, five wheat genotypes were labeled with 15N‐enriched nutrient solution. N remobilization and absorption were estimated via the nitrogen isotope composition of total organic matter and Rubisco. Gas exchange analyses showed that ear photosynthesis contributed substantially to grain filling in spite of the great loss of C due to respiration. Of the total kernel N, 64.7% was derived from the N acquired between sowing and anthesis, while the remaining 35.3% was derived from the N acquired between anthesis and maturity. In addition, 1.87 times more N was remobilized to the developing kernel from the ear than from the flag leaf. The higher yielding genotypes showed an increased N remobilization to the kernel compared to the lower yielding genotypes. In addition, the higher yielding genotypes remobilized more N from the ears to the kernel than the lower yielding genotypes, while the lower yielding genotypes remobilized more N from the flag leaf to the kernel. Therefore, the ears contribute significantly toward fulfilling C and N demands during grain filling.
Congenital Uterine Anomalies and Uterine Rupture
Authors: Lovelace Dawn
Published: March 2016

Congenital uterine anomalies are more common than previously recognized. While many women will have no symptoms or problems, some women with congenital uterine anomalies have increased risks of adverse outcomes during pregnancy. This article presents a case study of a woman with a congenital uterine anomaly leading to spontaneous rupture of her unscarred uterus remote from term. The most common types of congenital uterine anomalies and their associated reproductive risks are reviewed. Evaluation of congenital uterine anomalies and management alternatives are discussed.
Screening for Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Paterno Mary T. , Draughon Jessica E.
Published: March 2016

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a serious concern for women that is associated with significant adverse health effects. Routine screening for IPV is recommended, but there are many barriers to screening that have been identified by providers, including discomfort, lack of training, and not knowing how to respond to a positive screen. This article reviews IPV screening and appropriate techniques for responding to a positive screen. IPV screening best practices include using a systematic protocol, developing a screening script, using a validated screening tool, and considerations for privacy and mandatory reporting. Responding to a positive screen should include acknowledging the experience, asking if the woman desires help, offering support and referrals, encouraging safety planning, and completing additional assessments to determine level of danger and to identify any comorbidities. Using these techniques along with therapeutic communication may increase IPV identification and create an environment in which women feel empowered to get help.
Elucidation of the interplay between Fe(II), Fe(III), and dopamine with relevance to iron solubilization and reactive oxygen species generation by catecholamines
Authors: Sun Yingying , Pham A. Ninh , Waite T. David
Published: March 2016

The non‐enzymatically catalyzed oxidation of dopamine (DA) and the resultant formation of powerful oxidants such as the hydroxyl radical (•OH) through ‘Fenton chemistry’ in the presence of iron within dopaminergic neurons are thought to contribute to the damage of cells or even lead to neuronal degenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease. An understanding of DA oxidation as well as the transformation of the intermediates that are formed in the presence of iron under physiological conditions is critical to understanding the mechanism of DA and iron induced oxidative stress. In this study, the generation of H2O2 through the autoxidation and iron‐catalyzed oxidation of DA, the formation of the dominant complex via the direct reaction with Fe(II) and Fe(III) in both oxygen saturated and deoxygenated conditions and the oxidation of Fe(II) in the presence of DA at physiological pH 7.4 were investigated. The oxidation of DA resulted in the generation of significant amounts of H2O2 with this process accelerated significantly in the presence of Fe(II) and Fe(III). At high DA:Fe(II) ratios, the results from this study suggest that DA plays a protective role by complexing Fe(II) and preventing it from reacting with the generated H2O2. However, the accumulation of H2O2 may result in cellular damage as high intracellular H2O2 concentrations will result in the oxidation of remaining Fe(II) mainly through the peroxidation pathway. At low DA:Fe(II) ratios however, it is likely that DA will act as a pro‐oxidant by generating H2O2 which, in the presence of Fe(II), will result in the production of strongly oxidizing •OH radicals.

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Powerful oxidants such as the hydroxyl radical (•OH) have previously been thought to be generated through the interplay between dopamine (DA) and iron, contributing to damage to cells and, potentially, leading to neuronal degenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease. Our results suggest that DA plays a dual role as high DA/Fe(II) ratios prevent Fe(II) from reacting with the generated H2O2 thereby reducing •OH generation, whereas low DA/Fe(II) ratios enhance •OH generation as a result of reaction of unbound Fe(II) and H2O2 produced via both autoxidation and iron‐catalyzed oxidation of DA.
Intramuscular delivery of p75NTR ectodomain by an AAV vector attenuates cognitive deficits and Alzheimer's disease‐like pathologies in APP/PS1 transgenic mice
Authors: Wang Qing‐Hua , Wang Ye‐Ran , Zhang Tao , Jiao Shu‐Sheng , Liu Yu‐Hui , Zeng Fan , Li Jing , Yao Xiu‐Qing , Zhou Hua‐Dong , Zhou Xin‐Fu , Wang Yan‐Jiang
Published: March 2016

The neurotrophin receptor p75 (p75NTR) is a receptor for amyloid‐beta (Aβ) and mediates Aβ‐induced neurodegenerative signals. The ectodomain of p75NTR (p75ECD) is a physiological protective factor against Aβ in Alzheimer's disease (AD). We have previously demonstrated that the shedding of p75ECD from the cell surface is down‐regulated in AD brains and restoration of the p75ECD level in the brain, through intracranial administration of p75ECD by adeno‐associated virus vectors, attenuates AD‐like pathologies in an AD mouse model. In this study, we further investigated the feasibility and efficacy of peripheral administration of AAV‐p75ECD on brain amyloid burden and associated pathogenesis. We found that intramuscular delivery of AAV‐p75ECD increased the level of p75ECD in the blood, significantly improved the behavioral phenotype of amyloid precursor protein/PS1 transgenic mice, and reduced brain amyloid burden, attenuated Tau hyperphosphorylation, and neuroinflammation. Furthermore, intramuscular delivery of AAV‐p75ECD was well tolerated. Our results indicate that peripheral delivery of p75ECD represents a safe and effective therapeutic strategy for AD.

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The ectodomain of p75NTR (p75ECD) is a physiological protective factor against amyloid‐beta (Aβ) in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Intramuscular delivery of AAV‐p75ECD increased the p75ECD levels in the blood, reduced brain amyloid burden through a ‘peripheral sink’ mechanism and alleviates AD‐type pathologies. Peripheral delivery of p75ECD represents a promising therapeutic strategy for AD.
Is there a Publication Bias in Behavioural Intranasal Oxytocin Research on Humans? Opening the File Drawer of One Laboratory
Authors: Lane A. , Luminet O. , Nave G. , Mikolajczak M.
Published: March 2016

The neurohormone oxytocin (OT) has been one the most studied peptides in behavioural sciences over the past two decades. Primarily known for its crucial role in labour and lactation, a rapidly growing literature suggests that intranasal OT (IN‐OT) may also play a role in the emotional and social lives of humans. However, the lack of a convincing theoretical framework explaining the effects of IN‐OT that would also allow the prediction of which moderators exert their effects and when has raised healthy skepticism regarding the robustness of human behavioural IN‐OT research. Poor knowledge of the exact pharmacokinetic properties of OT, as well as crucial statistical and methodological issues and the absence of direct replication efforts, may have lead to a publication bias in the IN‐OT literature, with many unpublished studies with null results remaining buried in laboratory drawers. Is there a file drawer problem in IN‐OT research? If this is the case, it may also be true in our own laboratory. The present study aims to answer this question, document the extent of the problem and discuss its implications for OT research. For eight studies (including 13 dependent variables overall, as assessed through 25 different paradigms) performed in our laboratory between 2009 and 2014 on 453 subjects, the results obtained were too often not those that were expected. Only five publications emerged from our studies and only one of these reported a null finding. After realising that our publication portfolio has become less and less representative of our actual findings and because the nonpublication of our data might contribute to generating a publication bias in IN‐OT research, we decided to retrieve these studies from our drawer and encourage other laboratories to do the same.