bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel mutation of KRT9 gene in a Chinese Han pedigree with epidermolytic palmoplantar keratoderma
Authors: Chen Nan , Sun Jingying , Song Yali , Wei Xinjing , Shi Yan , Zhang Li
Published: October 2016

Background

Mutations of keratin 9 (KRT9) gene is a hot research area of epidermolytic palmoplantar keratoderma (EPPK).

Aims

To identify the genes caused the EPPK of a Chinese family.

Patients/Methods

Three cases of lesions were collected for pathological examination. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood samples of six patients and five healthy individuals and 100 unrelated individuals. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to amplify exons 1 of KRT9 gene. PCR products were sequenced to identify potential mutations.

Results

The lesion pathology of the proband and two ill relatives diagnosed EPPK. A new heterozygous missense mutation (488G>T) was identified in the 488 site of exon 1 of KRT9 gene in all six patients, which resulted in substitution of thymine for guanine, and substitution of leucine acid for arginine acid at position 163 of the KRT9 protein. The same mutation was not found in the five healthy individuals of the family and 100 unrelated individuals.

Conclusions

The new heterozygous missense mutation (488G>T) of KRT9 gene is probably the cause of EPPK in this Chinese family.
Embolization of the inferior mesenteric artery for post‐partum hemorrhage with a vaginal laceration: A case with unusual collateral supply
Authors: Kim Cho Hee , Jeon Gyeong Sik , Lee Shin Jae , Kang Suk Ho
Published: October 2016

A 36‐year‐old primipara woman was referred to the interventional department for management of severe primary post‐partum hemorrhage with a vaginal laceration after a normal vaginal delivery. Angiography revealed that the superior rectal branch of the inferior mesenteric artery was one of the origins of persistent vaginal bleeding following embolization of both uterine arteries. The patient was successfully treated by selective embolization without other complications. Our case report highlights that the inferior mesenteric artery should be considered as an unusual extrauterine source for post‐partum hemorrhage.
Concealed heterotopic pregnancy at 12 weeks, with no coexisting risk factors: Lessons to be learned
Authors: Pratilas Georgios C. , Chatzis Panagiotis , Panteleris Nikolaos , Chatzistamatiou Kimon , Zeipiridis Leonidas , Dinas Konstantinos
Published: October 2016

A woman presented at the gynecological emergency clinic with severe lower abdominal pain. Even though she reported normal menses and had no risk factors for ectopic pregnancy, pregnancy test was positive and vaginal sonogram indicated heterotopic pregnancy at 12 weeks of gestation, with rupture of the ectopic pregnancy. Laboratory results indicated significant blood loss, and emergency laparotomy with salpingo‐ophorectomy was performed. The intrauterine pregnancy continued uneventfully. Interestingly, the previous month the patient had also undergone investigation for vague abdominal pain and anemia. This case, apart from being very interesting because of the rarity of naturally occurring heterotopic pregnancy, shows how a number of factors in patient management and investigation, when combined with rare and uncommon conditions, can lead to incorrect diagnosis with the associated implications for patient safety. This case therefore demonstrates the need for improved patient care and outcome.
Inside the Mind of the Millennial Shopper: Designing Retail Spaces for a New Generation
Authors: Calienes Elizabeth , Carmel–Gilfilen Candy , Portillo Margaret
Published: October 2016

Challenges facing retailing abound. Retailers and brands are struggling to find new ways to appeal to shoppers. Yet, research has shown that the store's physical design plays a crucial role in whether a shopper enters a store and engages with a brand. The latest generation of shoppers, the millennials, are a powerful cohort representing 75.4 million individuals in 2016 and accounting for $200 billion in annual consumer spending. Although this generation is well known for online shopping, research has shown that the majority (75%) of their retail dollars are still being spent in brick–and–mortar stores. This has generated awareness in viewing the retail store as a tool for brand–building, motivating brands to reevaluate their store designs. This exploratory study seeks to understand the elements of the retail environment that catch the attention of the millennial shopper and their response to them. The methodology employed photo elicitation for data collection using personal smartphones that allowed the millennial participants to combine photography with captions, creating an annotated image bank of retail environments. This image bank revealed tangible and intangible dimensions of the retail experience that offer insights into the mind of the millennial shopper. The identified themes have design implications for both education and practice that can inform the process of creating dynamic, engaging retail environments for this generation.
Haemolytic uraemic syndrome
Authors: Karpman Diana , Loos Sebastian , Tati Ramesh , Arvidsson Ida
Published: October 2016

Haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS) is defined by the simultaneous occurrence of nonimmune haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia and acute renal failure. This leads to the pathological lesion termed thrombotic microangiopathy, which mainly affects the kidney, as well as other organs. HUS is associated with endothelial cell injury and platelet activation, although the underlying cause may differ. Most cases of HUS are associated with gastrointestinal infection with Shiga toxin‐producing enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) strains. Atypical HUS (aHUS) is associated with complement dysregulation due to mutations or autoantibodies. In this review, we will describe the causes of HUS. In addition, we will review the clinical, pathological, haematological and biochemical features, epidemiology and pathogenetic mechanisms as well as the biochemical, microbiological, immunological and genetic investigations leading to diagnosis. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of the different subtypes of HUS enables tailoring of appropriate treatment and management. To date, there is no specific treatment for EHEC‐associated HUS but patients benefit from supportive care, whereas patients with aHUS are effectively treated with anti‐C5 antibody to prevent recurrences, both before and after renal transplantation.
Image analysis of fatty infiltration in labial salivary gland biopsies: extent and its correlation to age, obesity and diabetes
Authors: Katona Krisztián , Elekes Eszter , Farkas Nelli , Kneif Mária , Sütő Gábor , Tornóczky Tamás
Published: October 2016

Background

Fatty infiltration of minor salivary gland parenchyma is relatively frequent, but not extensively examined histopathological phenomenon in biopsy samples. Its extent and relation to several suspected background diseases are not well understood.

Methods

In this study, we examined the presence and extent of fatty infiltration on digitally scanned versions of the periodic acid/Schiff‐stained minor salivary gland slides of 275 patients. As a result of the image analysis, fatty infiltration was expressed in per cent of the whole selected area. The presence and extent of this change were compared to age, diabetes mellitus and body mass index in various statistical analyses.

Results

Significantly higher age and body mass index values were found in the fatty infiltration positive than in the negative group. We also found that not only the number of fatty infiltration positive cases was increased significantly in the gradually worsened body mass index groups, but the extent of fatty infiltration also increased as the obesity worsened. Age also showed significant correlation with the extent of fatty infiltration.

Discussion

All of these findings support that the age (which seemed the only independent variable) shows strong correlation with the presence of the fatty infiltration but obesity may also play important role in the development and the extent of this change. Because of its frequency in elderly, at least partly, the fatty infiltration might be responsible for the xerostomia. We also think that presence of fatty infiltration should be mentioned in the histopathological report of salivary gland biopsies.
The Conometric Concept: Definitive Fixed Lithium Disilicate Restorations Supported by Conical Abutments
Authors: Degidi Marco , Nardi Diego , Sighinolfi Gianluca , Piattelli Adriano
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The use of the conical coupling connection to support definitive restorations was evaluated in cases involving full acrylic resin or hybrid acrylic resin‐composite prostheses. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of definitive fixed partial prostheses made with lithium disilicate and supported by coupling connection abutments and healed implants.

Materials and Methods

The prostheses were placed in the posterior regions of partially edentulous patients; 65 patients received fixed lithium disilicate restorations splinted with conical coupling connections to two implants. Implants were placed into healed sites and fresh extraction sockets. The prostheses were placed after healing periods of 3 months: restorations were followed yearly for 3 years. At each follow‐up visit, peri‐implant bone levels and pocket depths were recorded. Esthetic, functional, and biologic United States Public Health Services (USPHS) parameters modified by the FDI World Dental Federation study design were assessed at the last follow‐up appointments.

Results

Two prostheses (3.07%) fractured: one was related to framework design error; one was caused by a car accident. Three patients reported small chips: these restorations were immediately polished. No significant difference involving peri‐implant bone and probing levels between the experimental times were found. None of the prostheses became loose.

Conclusions

The results of this research indicated that abutment‐prostheses coupling connections were successful within the timeframe of this study.
Shifting STEM Stereotypes? Considering the Role of Peer and Teacher Gender
Authors: Riegle‐Crumb Catherine , Moore Chelsea , Buontempo Jenny
Published: October 2016

This study builds on research on the power of counter‐stereotypical cues, as well as intergroup contact theory, to consider whether interactions with a female teacher and female peers in a high school engineering classroom decrease male students' gender/science, technology, engineering, and math stereotypical beliefs and whether this varies according to the initial strength of their stereotypical views. Analyses reveal that among male students who initially reject stereotypes of male superiority, more female peers in the classroom leads to a further decrease in their stereotypical views by the end of the year. In contrast, boys who held strong stereotypical beliefs became less stereotypical by the end of the course when they had a female teacher. Implications for future research and current educational reforms are discussed.
Explaining Disparities in Youth Aerobic Fitness and Body Mass Index: Relative Impact of Socioeconomic and Minority Status
Authors: Bai Yang , Saint‐Maurice Pedro F. , Welk Gregory J. , Allums‐Featherston Kelly , Candelaria Norma
Published: October 2016

BACKGROUND

To advance research on youth fitness promotion it is important to understand factors that may explain the disparities in fitness.

METHODS

We evaluated data from the FitnessGram NFL PLAY60 Partnership Project to examine school factors influencing aerobic capacity (AC) and body mass index (BMI) in schoolchildren. Individual observations for AC (157,971 students from 675 schools) and BMI (178,274 students from 630 schools) were aggregated to compute the percentage of students achieving the Healthy Fitness Zone (HFZ). We examined achievements using adjusted linear regression models with socioeconomic status (SES), minority status, region, enrollment, and grade as factors.

RESULTS

The mean HFZ for AC and BMI were 51.6% and 56.9%, respectively. SES, minority status, and enrollment were all significantly associated with AC HFZ among boys, and SES and enrollment were significant predictors of AC HFZ in girls. SES and location were significantly related to BMI HFZ among boys but only SES significantly predicted BMI HFZ in girls. Schools with higher SES had higher AC and BMI HFZ achievements.

CONCLUSIONS

SES was consistently associated with health‐related fitness, independent of sex, but not minority status.
Socioeconomic Factors Influence Physical Activity and Sport in Quebec Schools
Authors: Morin Pascale , Lebel Alexandre , Robitaille Éric , Bisset Sherri
Published: October 2016

BACKGROUND

School environments providing a wide selection of physical activities and sufficient facilities are both essential and formative to ensure young people adopt active lifestyles. We describe the association between school opportunities for physical activity and socioeconomic factors measured by low‐income cutoff index, school size (number of students), and neighborhood population density.

METHODS

A cross‐sectional survey using a 2‐stage stratified sampling method built a representative sample of 143 French‐speaking public schools in Quebec, Canada. Self‐administered questionnaires collected data describing the physical activities offered and schools' sports facilities. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were performed separately for primary and secondary schools.

RESULTS

In primary schools, school size was positively associated with more intramural and extracurricular activities, more diverse interior facilities, and activities promoting active transportation. Low‐income primary schools were more likely to offer a single gym. Low‐income secondary schools offered lower diversity of intramural activities and fewer exterior sporting facilities. High‐income secondary schools with a large school size provided a greater number of opportunities, larger infrastructures, and a wider selection of physical activities than smaller low‐income schools.

CONCLUSIONS

Results reveal an overall positive association between school availability of physical and sport activity and socioeconomic factors.
Flavonoid-enriched fraction from Echinodorus macrophyllus aqueous extract exhibits high in-vitro and in-vivo anti-inflammatory activity
Authors: da Silva Girlaine Pereira , Fernandes Daniele Corrêa , Vigliano Mariana Vieira , da Fonseca Eduardo Nunes , Santos Shirley Vânia Moura , Marques Paulo Roberto , Justo Maria da Graça , Sabino Kátia Costa de Carvalho , Coelho Marsen Garcia Pinto
Published: October 2016

Objectives

Echinodorus macrophyllus (Kunth) Micheli (Alismataceae) is popularly used as an infusion to treat inflammatory diseases. This work fractionated the aqueous extract of E. macrophyllus (AEEm) to improve its anti-inflammatory effects.

Methods

Aqueous extract of E. macrophyllus was fractionated by Sephadex LH-20 and analysed by HPLC-DAD. Anti-inflammatory action was evaluated, in vivo, by air pouch model (total leucocyte, protein and leukotriene B4 (LTB4)), and, in vitro, by neutrophil migration (transwell assay) and its Mac1 expression (flow cytometry), and RAW 264.7 nitric oxide (NO) production (Griess reaction).

Key findings

Fr20 reduced total leucocyte at 2.5 mg/kg (29.7%) while ethanolic extract of E. macrophyllus (EAEm) increased it (94.0%). Fr20 showed higher (P < 0.05) inhibition (89.8%) of LTB4 in exudate than EAEm (75.0%). Fr20 and EAEm decreased exudate protein and inflammatory infiltrate in pouch tissues, in-vitro neutrophil migration, and NO production. Otherwise, Fr40 did not reduce leucocytes and exudate protein (until 50 mg/kg) nor tissue inflammation, and increased in-vitro NO production. The inhibition of neutrophil migration by EAEm, but not Fr20, was dependent on reduced Mac-1 expression.

Conclusions

The fractionation of AEEm provided a more potent anti-inflammatory fraction containing flavonoids (Fr20) that reduces the migration of neutrophils and LTB4 release, probably contributing to its mechanism of action.
New biomarkers for increased intestinal permeability induced by dextran sodium sulphate and fasting in chickens
Authors: Gilani S. , Howarth G. S. , Kitessa S. M. , Tran C. D. , Forder R. E. A. , Hughes R. J.
Published: October 2016

Increased intestinal permeability (IP) can lead to compromised health in chickens. As there is limited literature on in vivo biomarkers to assess increased IP in chickens, the objective of this study was to identify a reliable biomarker of IP using DSS ingestion and fasting models. Male Ross chickens (n = 48) were reared until day 14 on the floor pen in an animal care facility, randomized into the following groups: control, DSS and fasting (each with n = 16), and then placed in metabolism cages. DSS was administered in drinking water at 0.75% from days 16 to 21, while controls and fasted groups received water. All birds had free access to feed and water except the birds in the fasting group that were denied feed for 19.5 h on day 20. On day 21, all chickens were given two separate oral gavages comprising fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran (FITC‐d, 2.2 mg in 1 ml/bird) at time zero and lactulose, mannitol and rhamnose (LMR) sugars (0.25 g L, 0.05 g M and 0.05 g R in 2 ml/bird) at 60 min. Whole blood was collected from the brachial vein in a syringe 90 min post‐LMR sugar gavage. Serum FITC‐d and plasma LMR sugar concentrations were measured by spectrophotometry and high‐performance ion chromatography respectively. Plasma concentrations of intestinal fatty acid binding protein, diamine oxidase, tight junction protein (TJP), d‐lactate and faecal α‐antitrypsin inhibitor concentration were also analysed by ELISA. FITC‐d increased significantly (p < 0.05) after fasting compared with control. L/M and L/R ratios for fasting and L/M ratio for DSS increased compared with control chickens (p < 0.05). TJP in plasma was significantly increased due to fasting but not DSS treatment, compared with controls. Other tests did not indicate changes in IP (p > 0.05). We concluded that FITC‐d and LMR sugar tests can be used in chickens to assess changes in IP.
Prevalence and Clinical Relevance of Exon 2 Deletion ofCOMMD1in Bedlington Terriers in Korea
Authors: Kim Y.G. , Kim S.Y. , Kim J.H. , Lee K.K. , Yun Y.M.
Published: October 2016

Background

Deletion of exon 2 ofcopper metabolism domain containing 1(COMMD1) results in copper toxicosis in Bedlington terriers (CT‐BT).

Objectives

This study was conducted to identify the prevalence and clinical relevance of theCOMMD1mutation in Bedlington terriers in Korea.

Animals

A total of 105 purebred Bedlington terriers (50 males, 55 females) from the kennels and pet dog clubs in Korea were examined during the period 2008–2013.

Methods

A multiplexPCRwas carried out to detect exon 2 deletion ofCOMMD1. Clinical analysis was performed on each genetic group, and clinical status of the dogs was followed up to estimate survival probability.

Results

Of the 105 samples, 52 (49%) were wild‐type homozygote, 47 (45%) were heterozygote, and 6 (6%) were mutant‐type homozygote. Plasma alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity was increased in the mutant‐type homozygous group >2 years of age (P< .0001). The survival probability of 6 mutant‐type homozygotes surviving 2.5 years was 0.67, and 4 years was 0.5.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Results show the prevalence and clinical relevance of exon 2 deletion ofCOMMD1and could help establish a structured selective breeding program to preventCT‐BTin Korea.
Survival and Growth Improvement of Palm Ruff, Seriolella violacea, Larvae Fed Artemia Nauplii Enriched with an Experimental Emulsion
Authors: González Adens , Silva Alfonso , Gajardo Gonzalo , Martínez Claudio
Published: October 2016

The palm ruff, Seriolella violacea (Cojinoba), is a potential new species for Chilean aquaculture. To approach Cojinoba larviculture, an experimental Artemia enrichment emulsion, containing docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)/eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) = 2.5, supplemented with vitamin E, astaxanthin, and β‐glucan, was evaluated in both Artemia and Cojinoba larvae, 30–50 d.a.h. This study tested an experimental enrichment emulsion versus a commercial emulsion, with an integral approach of multicompound emulsions. After 23 h enrichment, experimental emulsion (EE)‐enriched nauplii reached DHA and EPA concentrations of 23.8 and 18.7 mg/g dry weight (dwt), respectively, while in Cojinoba larvae they were 18.4 and 19.7 mg/g dwt. Control emulsion (CE)‐enriched nauplii exhibited lower DHA and EPA (6.1 and 7.7 mg/g dwt), while only DHA decreased in the control larvae (12.6 mg/g dwt). Vitamin E was higher in EE‐enriched nauplii (29.2 mg/100 g dwt) than in the control (8.4 mg/100 g dwt). Larvae fed EE‐enriched Artemia exhibited 8% increase in survival and 19% in growth compared with the control. Astaxanthin was detected only in larvae fed EE‐enriched nauplii. The tumor necrosis factor‐α concentration was not significantly different between larvae fed EE‐ and CE‐enriched nauplii. EE looks promising as an Artemia enrichment and experimental diet to assess palm ruff larval requirements, and has a positive impact on fish larvae performance.
Growth and Survival of Juvenile Freshwater Mussel, Chamberlainia hainesiana (Lea, 1856), at Three Densities in the Natural Reservoir and River Environments, Thailand
Authors: Kovitvadhi Uthaiwan , Kovitvadhi Satit , Meejui Oamduen
Published: October 2016

The effects of location and density on the growth and survival of juvenile freshwater pearl mussel, Chamberlainia hainesiana, 150–360 d after metamorphosis were investigated to determine the optimal ranges for commercial farming in Thailand. Juveniles were reared outdoors in two locations (the Mae Klong Reservoir and the Khwae Yai River, Kanchanaburi Province). Three density levels (25, 50, and 100 mussels/basket) were established at each location, with three replicates per density level. Phytoplankton from the water column in the natural habitats served as feed; no supplemental feed was provided. The mussels cultured in the reservoir had significantly higher growth rates than those cultured in the river (P < 0.01). The density level of 25 mussels/basket exhibited the highest average growth rates (in weight, length, height, and width per day). The density levels of 25 and 50 mussels/basket did not show significant differences in growth from each other (P > 0.05), but both showed significant differences in growth from the density level of 100 mussels/basket (P < 0.01).
Chinese Economic Statecraft and U.S. Hegemony in Latin America: An Empirical Analysis, 2003–2014
Authors: Urdinez Francisco , Mouron Fernando , Schenoni Luis L. , de Oliveira Amâncio J.
Published: October 2016

If one interprets China's sizable rise in Latin America as an unprecedented phenomenon, it follows that the concurrent story of declining U.S. influence in the region is an event hastily acknowledged at best and ignored at worst. In this article, we ask whether Chinese economic statecraft in Latin America is related to the declining U.S. hegemonic influence in the region and explore how. To do so we analyze foreign direct investments, bank loans, and international trade from 2003 to 2014, when China became a major player in the region. We use data from 21 Latin American countries, and find that an inversely proportional relationship exists between the investments made by Chinese state-owned enterprises (SOEs), bank loans, manufacturing exports, and the U.S. hegemonic influence exerted in the region. In other words, Beijing has filled the void left by a diminished U.S. presence in the latter's own backyard.
Chile's 2015 Electoral Reform: Changing the Rules of the Game
Authors: Gamboa Ricardo , Morales Mauricio
Published: October 2016

In 2015, a center-left government introduced an electoral reform that replaced the binomial electoral system governing parliamentary elections since 1989 with a more proportional system. This article provides an account of the reform process, describes the new electoral law, and discusses the factors explaining the reform. We argue, first, that it was possible, due to the incentives the government provided, to secure the support of an ample majority of parliamentarians; also, a new and favorable political scenario had emerged, in which the support of the main right-wing parties was not necessary for the reform to pass. Second, we maintain that the reform sought mainly to resolve problems affecting the parties of the governing coalition related to negotiations of coalition lists for elections. As a complementary objective, the reform promoted a general interest by establishing rules that allowed a “fairer” system of representation and improved competitive conditions.
Research Designs and Special Education Research: Different Designs Address Different Questions
Authors: Cook Bryan G. , Cook Lysandra
Published: October 2016

The aim of this article is to provide practitioners and other nonresearchers a basic understanding of research designs to aid in appropriately interpreting and applying research findings in special education. Research design provides the blueprint for conducting a research study and shapes what kind of knowledge is generated by the study. We discuss the purpose of, types of questions addressed by, and different types of studies associated with four research designs commonly used in special education—descriptive, relational, experimental, and qualitative designs, as well as briefly review an example study using each research design. The take–away message of this article is that different research designs address different types of questions. Therefore, it is important that research consumers know what type of questions each research design addresses and interpret and apply research findings accordingly.
Biliary diseases as main causes of pyogenic liver abscess caused by extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase‐producing Enterobacteriaceae
Authors: Shi Shao‐Hua , Feng Xiao‐Ning , Lai Ming‐Chun , Kong Hai‐Shen , Zheng Shu‐Sen
Published: October 2016

Background & Aims

Little is known about aetiology and morbidity and clinical characteristics of pyogenic liver abscess caused by extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase‐producing Enterobacteriaceae.

Methods

An analysis between pyogenic liver abscess patients caused by extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase‐producing Enterobacteriaceae isolates and those caused by non‐extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase‐producing Enterobacteriaceae was performed.

Results

Among 817 pyogenic liver abscess patients, there were 176 patients (21.5%) with pyogenic liver abscess of biliary origin, and 67 pyogenic liver abscess patients (8.2%) caused by extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase‐producing Enterobacteriaceae isolates (mainly Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae). Of 176 pyogenic liver abscess patients related to biliary disorders, there were 48 pyogenic liver abscess patients (27.3%) caused by extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase‐producing Enterobacteriaceae. Within 67 pyogenic liver abscess patients caused by Enterobacteriaceae expressing extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamases, the occurrences of 48 pyogenic liver abscess patients (71.6%) were associated with biliary disorders. When compared with pyogenic liver abscess patients caused by non‐extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase‐producing Enterobacteriaceae, there were significantly greater incidences of polymicrobial infections, bacteremia, pulmonary infection, recurrence and death in pyogenic liver abscess patients caused by extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase‐producing Enterobacteriaceae. Carbapenems remain mainstay drugs against extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase‐producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae. Independent risk factors for occurrence of pyogenic liver abscess caused by extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase‐producing Enterobacteriaceae were biliary disorders including extra‐ and intrahepatic cholangiolithiasis and an abnormal bilioenteric communication between bile and gut, a treatment history of malignancy such as operation and chemotherapy, pulmonary infection, and diabetes mellitus.

Conclusions

Pyogenic liver abscess caused by extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase‐producing Enterobacteriaceae isolates mainly occurs in patients with biliary disorders or with a treatment history of malignancy. The mainstay of treatment remains carbapenems in combination with adequate aspiration or drainage.
Strontium and neodymium isotope systematics of target rocks and impactites from the El'gygytgyn impact structure: Linking impactites and target rocks
Authors: Wegner Wencke , Koeberl Christian
Published: October 2016

The 3.6 Ma El'gygytgyn structure, located in northeastern Russia on the Chukotka Peninsula, is an 18 km diameter complex impact structure. The bedrock is formed by mostly high‐silica volcanic rocks of the ~87 Ma old Okhotsk‐Chukotka Volcanic Belt (OCVB). Volcanic target rocks and impact glasses collected on the surface, as well as drill core samples of bedrock and impact breccias have been investigated by thermal ionization mass spectrometry (TIMS) to obtain new insights into the relationships between these lithologies in terms of Nd and Sr isotope systematics. Major and trace element data for impact glasses are added to compare with the composition of target rocks and drill core samples. Sr isotope data are useful tracers of alteration processes and Nd isotopes reveal characteristics of the magmatic sources of the target rocks, impact breccias, and impact glasses. There are three types of target rocks mapped on the surface: mafic volcanics, dacitic tuff and lava of the Koekvun’ Formation, and dacitic to rhyolitic ignimbrite of the Pykarvaam Formation. The latter represents the main contributor to the impact rocks. The drill core is divided into a suevite and a bedrock section by the Sr isotope data, for which different postimpact alteration regimes have been detected. Impact glasses from the present‐day surface did not suffer postimpact hydrothermal alteration and their data indicate a coherent alteration trend in terms of Sr isotopes with the target rocks from the surface. Surprisingly, the target rocks do not show isotopic coherence with the Central Chukotka segment of the OCVB or with the Berlozhya magmatic assemblage (BMA), a late Jurassic felsic volcanic suite that crops out in the eastern part of the central Chukotka segment of the OCVB. However, concordance for these rocks exists with the Okhotsk segment of the OCVB. This finding argues for variable source magmas having contributed to the build‐up of the OCVB.
Volume marker inaccuracies: A cross‐sectional survey of infant feeding bottles
Authors: Gribble Karleen , Berry Nina , Kerac Marko , Challinor Michelle
Published: October 2016

A cross‐sectional examination of the accuracy of volume markers on infant feeding bottles available for sale in Australia between December 2013 and February 2014 was carried out. Ninety‐one bottles representing 28 different brands were examined. Eighty‐eight bottles were hard sided. Volumes in these bottles were marked in a combination of milliliters and ounces. Thirty‐six (41%) bottles claimed compliance with the European standard EN14350, five (6%) with non‐existent Australian standards, and forty‐seven (54%) bottles had no standard claim. Nineteen bottles (22%) had at least one measured marking outside the tolerance of EN14350. Bottles claiming compliance with EN14350 were not less likely to have inaccurate markings than those that made no claim. More expensive bottles did not have fewer inaccurate markings. Three bottles were disposable liner systems and had particularly large volume inaccuracies (up to 43% outside the marked volume). Inaccurate volume markers on infant feeding bottles are a previously neglected but potentially important source of error in the reconstitution of infant formula. Over‐concentrated and under‐concentrated infant formula can cause serious illness or malnutrition. Over‐concentrated infant formula may contribute to obesity. Bottles with inaccurate volume markers are unfit for purpose; disposable liner bottles are particularly poor in this regard and should be prohibited from having volume markers on the bottle casing. To avoid individual or public harms, well‐enforced standards are needed. Guidance for parents, carers, and health professionals is needed to ensure that infant formula is accurately reconstituted.
Screening for late‐onset Pompe disease in undiagnosed myopathies
Authors: Matsui Misa , Inoue Kimiko , Sakoda Saburo , Matsumura Tsuyoshi , Hamazaki Takashi , Kosuga Motomichi , Okuyama Torayuki , Shimada Yohta , Ohashi Toya , Nishino Ichizo
Published: October 2016

Background

Pompe disease is caused by a deficiency of acid alpha‐glucosidase. Its prevalence varies depending on ethnicity, and is less prevalent in Japan as compared with other countries. Because of the wide spectrum of clinical features in late‐onset cases, some patients might be misdiagnosed with another myopathy, thus the actual prevalence in Japan might not be accurately reported.

Aim

To clarify the actual prevalence of late‐onset Pompe disease, we investigated acid alpha‐glucosidase activity in patients with undiagnosed myopathies.

Methods

Of 42 patients with undiagnosed myopathies, 41 underwent assessment of acid alpha‐glucosidase enzyme activity using dried blood spot analysis. As a second step, reassessment of acid alpha‐glucosidase activity was carried out using cultured skin fibroblasts. We also determined acid alpha‐glucosidase activity in biopsied muscle tissue obtained from the one other patient, who had previously undergone a muscle biopsy. Finally, gene analysis was carried out to confirm diagnosis.

Results

Four patients showed reduced acid alpha‐glucosidase activity in dried blood spot findings, of whom one possessed a pseudo‐deficiency allele. Furthermore, one patient who showed reduced acid alpha‐glucosidase activity in a biopsied muscle specimen was diagnosed with late‐onset Pompe disease based on gene analysis.

Conclusions

Of the present 42 patients, only one patient was diagnosed with late‐onset Pompe disease. The prevalence of Pompe disease in Japan does not seem to be as high as in other countries, though a certain number of patients might exist among those with undiagnosed myopathies. A larger and more systematic survey is necessary to elucidate the actual prevalence of late‐onset Pompe disease in Japan.
N‐cadherin restrains PTH repressive effects on sclerostin/SOST by regulating LRP6–PTH1R interaction
Authors: Yang Hailin , Dong Jinbo , Xiong Wei , Fang Zhong , Guan Hanfeng , Li Feng
Published: October 2016

Sclerostin/SOST is a robust negative regulator of bone formation. Loss‐of‐function mutations of the sclerostin gene (SOST) cause sclerosteosis and Van Buchem disease characterized by bone overgrowth. Mediated by myocyte enhancer factor 2 (MEF2) transcription factors, parathyroid hormone (PTH) suppresses SOST expression through formation of complexes of parathyroid hormone–parathyroid hormone‐related peptide receptor 1 (PTH1R) and lipoprotein receptor–related protein 6 (LRP6). N‐cadherin has been shown to negatively regulate Wnt/β‐catenin and PTH induced, protein kinase‐dependent β‐catenin signaling. Here, we investigated whether N‐cadherin mediates the inhibitory effects of PTH on sclerostin/SOST. In vitro, overexpression of N‐cadherin resulted in blunted PTH suppressive effects on sclerostin/SOST expression, as detected by immunoblot and qPCR analysis; PTH‐induced downregulation of MEF2A, C, and D was impaired by N‐cadherin; and N‐cadherin reduced LRP6–PTHR1 interaction and endocytosis in response to PTH. In vivo, intermittent PTH (iPTH)–induced suppression of sclerostin/SOST was accentuated in Dmp1‐cre; Cdh2f/f (Cdh2ΔDmp1) mice, compared with Cdh2f/f mice. Additionally, iPTH had greater bone anabolic effects in Cdh2ΔDmp1 mice compared to Cdh2f/f mice. These data indicate that N‐cadherin negatively mediates PTH suppressive effects on sclerostin/SOST by regulating LRP6–PTHR1 interaction, ultimately influencing PTH anabolic effects on bone.
TRPA1 receptor is upregulated in human oral lichen planus
Authors: Kun J , Perkecz A , Knie L , Sétáló G , Tornóczki T , Pintér E , Bán Á
Published: October 2016

Objective

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory disease of unknown etiology with antigen‐specific and non‐specific mechanisms. Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) is a non‐selective cation channel activated by noxious stimuli such as oxidative stress products evoking pain and release of proinflammatory mediators from sensory nerve endings culminating in neurogenic inflammation. Extraneuronal TRPA1s, for example, on immune cells possess yet unknown functions.

Subjects and Methods

We studied the buccal mRNA expression (qPCR) and protein localization (immunohistochemistry) of TRPA1 receptors and key OLP mediator transcripts in oral mucosa samples of healthy volunteers (n = 9), OLP patients (n = 43), and OLP‐like hyperkeratotic patients (n = 12).

Results

We measured 27.7‐ and 25.5‐fold TRPA1 mRNA increase in OLP and OLP‐like hyperkeratotic patients compared to healthy controls. TRPA1 transcripts elevated 2.4‐fold in hypertensive OLP but not in hyperkeratotic patients compared to counterparts, reduced by 1.6‐fold by angiotensin‐convertase inhibitor intake. TRPA1 messenger RNA was more coexpressed with transcripts of tumor necrosis factor α than with interferon γ. Keratinocytes, macrophages but not T cells expressed TRPA1.

Conclusions

We provided evidence for the extraneuronal presence and upregulation of the proinflammatory TRPA1 receptor in buccal samples of patients with OLP. This may implicate the ion channel in the pathomechanism of OLP.
Revealing kleptoparasitic and predatory tendencies in an African mammal community using camera traps: a comparison of spatiotemporal approaches
Authors: Cusack Jeremy J. , Dickman Amy J. , Kalyahe Monty , Rowcliffe J. Marcus , Carbone Chris , MacDonald David W. , Coulson Tim
Published: October 2016

Camera trap data are increasingly being used to characterise relationships between the spatiotemporal activity patterns of sympatric mammal species, often with a view to inferring inter‐specific interactions. In this context, we attempted to characterise the kleptoparasitic and predatory tendencies of spotted hyaenasCrocuta crocutaand lionsPanthera leofrom photographic data collected across 54 camera trap stations and two dry seasons in Tanzania's Ruaha National Park. We applied four different methods of quantifying spatiotemporal associations, including one strictly temporal approach (activity pattern overlap), one strictly spatial approach (co‐occupancy modelling), and two spatiotemporal approaches (co‐detection modelling and temporal spacing at shared camera trap sites). We expected a kleptoparasitic relationship between spotted hyaenas and lions to result in a positive spatiotemporal association, and further hypothesised that the association between lions and their favourite prey in Ruaha, the giraffeGiraffa camelopardalisand the zebraEquus quagga, would be stronger than those observed with non‐preferred prey species (the impalaAepyceros melampusand the dikdikMadoqua kirkii). Only approaches incorporating both the temporal and spatial components of camera trap data resulted in significant associative patterns. The latter were particularly sensitive to the temporal resolution chosen to define species detections (i.e. occasion length), and only revealed a significant positive association between lion and spotted hyaena detections, as well as a tendency for both species to follow each other at camera trap sites, during the dry season of 2013, but not that of 2014. In both seasons, observed spatiotemporal associations between lions and each of the four herbivore species considered provided no convincing or consistent indications of any predatory preferences. Our study suggests that, when making inferences on inter‐specific interactions from camera trap data, due regards should be given to the potential behavioural and methodological processes underlying observed spatiotemporal patterns.
Food supplementation and predation risk in harsh climate: interactive effects on abundance and body condition of tit species
Authors: Morosinotto Chiara , Villers Alexandre , Varjonen Rauno , Korpimäki Erkki
Published: October 2016

Food availability and predation risk can have drastic impacts on animal behaviour and populations. The tradeoff between foraging and predator avoidance is crucial for animal survival and will strongly affect individual body mass, since large fat reserves are beneficial to reduce starvation but may increase predation risk. However, two‐factor experiments simultaneously investigating the interactive effects of food and predation risk, are still rare. We studied the effects of food supplementation and natural predation risk imposed by pygmy owls Glaucidium passerinum on the abundance and fat reserves of tit species in boreal forests of north Europe, from January to March in 2012 and in 2013. Food supplementation increased the number of individuals present in a given forest patch, whereas the level of predation risk had no clear impact on the abundance of tit species. The stronger impact of food supply respect to predation risk could be the consequence of the harsh winter conditions in north Europe, with constant below‐zero temperatures and only few (5–7 h) daylight hours available for foraging. Predation risk did not have obvious effects on tit abundance but influenced food consumption and, together with food supplementation, affected the deposition of subcutaneous fat in great tits Parus major. High owl predation risk had detrimental effects on body fat reserves, which may reduce over‐winter survival, but the costs imposed by pygmy owl risk were compensated when food was supplemented. The starvation–predation tradeoff faced by great tits in winter may thus be mediated through variation in body fat reserves. In small species living in harsh environment, this tradeoff appeared thus to be biased towards avoidance of starvation, at the cost of increasing predation risk.
After‐life effects: living and dead invertebrates differentially affect plants and their associated above‐ and belowground multitrophic communities
Authors: Kos Martine , Jing Jingying , Keesmaat Ivor , Declerck Steven A. J. , Wagenaar Roel , Bezemer T. Martijn
Published: October 2016

Above–belowground (AG–BG) studies typically focus on plant‐mediated effects inflicted by living organisms. However, animal cadavers may also play an important role in AG–BG interactions. Here, we explore whether living and dead foliar‐feeding and soil‐dwelling invertebrates differentially affect plants and their associated AG and BG multitrophic communities.

In a mesocosm study we separated effects of living and dead locusts (AG herbivores) and earthworms (BG detritivores) on experimental multitrophic communities consisting of eight plant species, an AG aphid and parasitoid community and a BG nematode community. We measured root and shoot biomass and determined plant community composition and densities of aphids, parasitoids and nematodes.

Living locusts decreased total shoot and root biomass in the mesocosms, whereas living earthworms enhanced total root biomass. Cadavers of both invertebrates strongly increased total root and shoot biomass, and changed the plant community composition mainly via enhanced growth of grasses. Earthworm cadavers affected plant biomass and community composition more strongly than their living counterparts, while this was reversed for locusts. Structural equation models showed that aphids and parasitoids were influenced via changes in plant community composition. Nematode densities in the soil, especially those of bacterivorous and entomopathogenic nematodes, were strongly increased by dead invertebrates, but unaffected by living ones.

We conclude that effects of invertebrates on plant growth and densities of AG and BG organisms strongly depend on whether the invertebrates are dead or alive. Remarkably, invertebrate cadavers may inflict even stronger effects than their living counterparts. Hence, our study reveals an important, but often neglected, role of animal cadavers in AG–BG studies.
Immensity and Miniaturism: The Interplay of Scale and Sensory Experience in the Late Neolithic of the Maltese Islands
Authors: Gregory Isabelle Vella
Published: October 2016

At first glance, the Late Neolithic (3600–2500 BC) of the Maltese Island archipelago in the central Mediterranean is a landscape of immensity dominated by megalithic stone structures. To the modern viewer, the Neolithic is materialized as magnitude across time and space. Archaeologically, it is denoted as the Temple Period, after the numerous megalithic structures found across the islands of Malta, Gozo and Comino. Although these structures elicit notions of dominance, they also obscure multiple scales of materiality within and between their assemblages, particularly the not insignificant corpus of figurines and models. This paper looks at the two extreme ends of scale, immensity and miniaturism, and their role in shaping sensory experience and social relations.
X‐Ray Fluorescence and Stable Isotope Analysis of Marble in Central Lydia, Western Turkey
Authors: Sekedat Bradley M.
Published: October 2016

This paper presents the results of carbon and oxygen stable isotope analysis on marble quarries and artefacts from central Lydia, western Turkey under the auspices of the Central Lydia Archaeological Survey (CLAS). The marble survey and sampling programme studied 11 small‐scale quarries in the hinterland of the ancient city of Sardis. These quarries demonstrate evidence of ancient tool use, though their precise periods of operation were unknown prior to this study. The results presented here correlate material from these quarries with material previously studied from Sardis and from several tumuli in the monumental cemetery known as Bin Tepe. This study demonstrates that small quarries were important components of ancient social and economic landscapes, and that they are deserving of more consideration in archaeometric and marble studies. The data also point towards different social and economic factors at work in Lydian and Roman‐period marble acquisition.
CTA Detection of Left Atrial Stasis and Thrombus in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: WANG LIN , KADIYALA MADHAVI , KOSS ELANA , YARRAMANENI ABHIMANYU , RAPELJE KATHLEEN , KAMPFER STEPHANIE , REICHEK NATHANIEL , HOCH DAVID , JAYAM VINAY , LEVINE JOSEPH , CAO JIE J.
Published: October 2016

Background

We investigated computed tomography (CT) angiography (CTA) in assessment of left atrial appendage (LAA) stasis and thrombus in preprocedural evaluation for atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation in a large community cohort.

Methods and Results

We reviewed CTA and transesophageal echocardiographic images obtained in 861 consecutive patients with a history of AF undergoing same‐day CTA and transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) before AF ablation at a single hospital (2006–2013). CTA findings of LAA filling defects from acquisitions without electrocardiogram gating were compared to TEE features of LAA stasis (grade 0–4) and thrombus. Stasis grade 0 or 1 by TEE in the absence of thrombus was defined as a negative result. In addition, LAA peak flow velocity was assessed by TEE. Average age was 61 ± 10 years and 75% were male. On CTA, 161 patients (19%) had LAA filling defects on CTA and 21 had ≥grade 2 stasis on TEE, including two with thrombus, resulting in a positive predictive value of only 13%. However, among 670 CTA‐negative patients, 669 (99%) were negative for thrombus or stasis by TEE with one false‐negative CTA in a patient with grade 2 stasis by TEE but no thrombus, yielding a negative predictive value of 99.9%. Slow LAA Doppler flow velocity was the most important determinant of false‐positive CTA results in multivariate analysis (P < 0.0001)

Conclusion

LAA filling defects on CT are associated with slow LAA flow velocity. AF patients without LAA filing defects on CT are free of significant stasis and thrombus on TEE. It may be possible to eliminate TEE in up to 80% of AF ablation patients based on negative CTA findings.