bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of CD15 expression in dysplastic and neoplastic tissue of the bile duct – a potential novel tool for differential diagnosis of indeterminate biliary stricture
Authors: Walter Dirk , Herrmann Eva , Winkelmann Ria , Albert Jörg G , Liese Juliane , Schnitzbauer Andreas , Zeuzem Stefan , Hansmann Martin‐Leo , Peveling‐Oberhag Jan , Hartmann Sylvia
Published: July 2016

Background and aims

CD15 is expressed by various cancer types; among these are intrahepatic and perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). The aim of this study was to elucidate CD15 expression in distal CCA as well as in dysplastic biliary tissue and to determine its prognostic significance.

Methods and results

Tissue samples from patients with intrahepatic (iCCA, n = 22), perihilar (pCCA, n = 7) and distal CCA (dCCA, n = 15), who underwent surgical resection in the period from 2010 to 2015 were evaluated for CD15 expression. Tissue of synchronous lymph node metastasis (n = 13), CCA‐associated dysplasia (n = 20), dysplasia in intraductal biopsies (n = 10) and benign proliferations (n = 12), as well as inflammatory biliary lesions (n = 28) and non‐inflammatory bile ducts (n = 23), were evaluated equally for CD15 expression. CD15 was found to be expressed highly in iCCA (81.8%), pCCA (85.7%), dCCA (73.3%), CCA‐associated dysplasia (70.0%), dysplasia in intraductal biopsies (100%) and metastatic tissue (84.6%). CD15 expression was negative in 58 of 64 benign bile duct alterations resulting in an overall sensitivity and specificity of CD15 in CCA of 80.7 and 90.6% patients, respectively. CD15 expression was correlated significantly with a decreased overall survival in patients with CD15‐positive CCA associated dysplasia (P = 0.003). However, CD15 expression in the invasive tumour component was not correlated with clinical outcome.

Conclusion

CD15 is a sensitive and specific marker for intraepithelial and invasive neoplasias of the bile duct. Therefore, it can be helpful in the delineation of dysplastic and neoplastic biliary cells from non‐neoplastic tissue, which frequently causes a diagnostic problem in indeterminate biliary stricture.
Production, mode of action and sequencing of the corresponding gene of a bacteriocin produced by Lactococcus lactis 19.3
Authors: Zamfir Medana , Stefan Iulia‐Roxana , Stancu Mihaela‐Marilena , Grosu‐Tudor Silvia‐Simona
Published: July 2016

Lactococcus lactis 19.3 produces a bacteriocin with a wide inhibitory spectrum, including the food pathogen Listeria monocytogenes. The producing strain was able to grow and produce similar amounts of bacteriocin in MRS medium, cow's milk and soya milk, respectively. The mode of action of this bacteriocin was further investigated using two indicator strains, Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus LMG 6901T and Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 1911‐1. The bacteriocin displayed a bactericidal effect, causing a rapid decrease of the cell viability. Bacteriocin treatment of the sensitive strains resulted in major morphological changes, including pore formation, as shown by scanning electron microscopy. Finally, the bacteriocin‐encoding gene was identified by sequencing. The presence of nisin gene was confirmed. Based on all our data gathered so far, L. lactis 19.3 is a good candidate for a starter or protective culture in the manufacturing of both fermented dairy and vegetarian food products.
Alternative exon‐encoding regions of Locusta migratoria muscle myosin modulate the pH dependence of ATPase activity
Authors: Li J. , Lu Z. , He J. , Chen Q. , Wang X. , Kang L. , Li X.‐d.
Published: July 2016

Whereas the vertebrate muscle myosin heavy chains (MHCs) are encoded by a family of Mhc genes, most insects examined to date contain a single Mhc gene and produce all of the different MHC isoforms by alternative RNA splicing. Here, we found that the migratory locust, Locusta migratoria, has one Mhc gene, which contains 41 exons, including five alternative exclusive exons and one differently included penultimate exon, and potentially encodes 360 MHC isoforms. From the adult L. migratoria, we identified 14 MHC isoforms (including two identical isoforms): four from flight muscle (the thorax dorsal longitudinal muscle), three from jump muscle (the hind leg extensor tibiae muscle) and seven from the abdominal intersegmental muscle. We purified myosins from flight muscle and jump muscle and characterized their motor activities. At neutral pH, the flight and the jump muscle myosins displayed similar levels of in vitro actin‐gliding activity, whereas the former had a slightly higher actin‐activated ATPase activity than the latter. Interestingly, the pH dependences of the actin‐activated ATPase activity of these two myosins are different. Because the dominant MHC isoforms in these two muscles are identical except for the two alternative exon‐encoding regions, we propose that these two alternative regions modulate the pH dependence of L. migratoria muscle myosin.
Portuguese Scientists’ Migration: a study on the 2008 crisis aftermath
Authors: Ganga Rafaela , Silva José Pedro , Gomes Rui , Vaz Henrique , Lopes João Teixeira , Silva Sílvia , Cerdeira Luísa , Cabrito Belmiro , Magalhães Dulce , de Lurdes Machado‐Taylor Maria , Peixoto Paulo , Patrocínio Tomás , Brites Rui
Published: July 2016

In the economic and social aftermath of the 2008 crisis there has been an important and growing new wave of highly qualified Portuguese emigration comprising scientists. No or very few public policies have been designed to reverse this phenomenon, risking the consequences of brain drain. International literature argues that professional reasons are central to scientists’ decision to migrate, even after the 2008 crisis. Spending some time in a foreign country to study, research, or teach, is perceived as a common step in an individual academic trajectory and an advantage for a successful professional career in academia. It is also encouraged by European Union policies. Twelve individual portraits of Portuguese scientists living in central Europe reveal how important other factors are to the migration decision‐making process. These factors include the economic crisis, student mobility programmes, and the current Portuguese scientific system revision.
Influenza‐like illness‐related emergency department visits: Christmas and New Year holiday peaks and relationships with laboratory‐confirmed respiratory virus detections, Edmonton, Alberta, 2004–2014
Authors: Martin Leah J. , Im Cindy , Dong Huiru , Lee Bonita E. , Talbot James , Meurer David P. , Mukhi Shamir N. , Drews Steven J. , Yasui Yutaka
Published: July 2016

Background

Emergency department (ED) visit volumes can be especially high during the Christmas–New Year holidays, a period occurring during the influenza season in Canada.

Methods

Using daily data, we examined the relationship between ED visits for the chief complaint “cough” (for Edmonton, Alberta residents) and laboratory detections for influenza A and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) (for Edmonton and surrounding areas), lagged 0–5 days ahead, for non‐pandemic years (2004–2008 and 2010–2014) using multivariable linear regression adjusting for temporal variables. We defined these cough‐related visits as influenza‐like illness (ILI)‐related ED visits and, for 2004–2014, compared Christmas–New Year holiday (December 24–January 3) and non‐holiday volumes during the influenza season (October–April).

Results

Adjusting for temporal variables, ILI‐related ED visits were significantly associated with laboratory detections for influenza A and RSV. During non‐pandemic years, the highest peak in ILI‐related visit volumes always occurred during the holidays. The median number of holiday ILI‐related visits/day (42.5) was almost twice the non‐holiday median (24) and was even higher in 2012–2013 (80) and 2013–2014 (86). Holiday ILI‐related ED visit volumes/100 000 population ranged from 56.0 (2010–2011) to 117.4 (2012–2013). In contrast, lower visit volumes occurred during the holidays of pandemic‐affected years (2008–2010).

Conclusions

During non‐pandemic years, ILI‐related ED visit volumes were associated with variations in detections for influenza A and RSV and always peaked during the Christmas–New Year holidays. This predictability should be used to prepare for, and possibly prevent, this increase in healthcare use; however, interventions beyond disease prevention strategies are likely needed.
Hospital surveillance of influenza strains: a concordant image of viruses identified by the Swiss Sentinel system?
Authors: Gonçalves Ana Rita , Iten Anne , Suter‐Boquete Patricia , Schibler Manuel , Kaiser Laurent , Cordey Samuel
Published: July 2016

Background

The Swiss Sentinel system for influenza virus surveillance reports influenza‐like illness in the community through a network of primary care practitioners, but the epidemiologic, demographic, and virological characterization may differ from that observed in hospitalized patients with influenza.

Objective

To compare demographic and virological data from hospital influenza cases with Sentinel system data during the 2014–2015 season.

Methods

We included 2623 in‐ and outpatients with a screening request for influenza A/B in a university teaching hospital in Geneva, Switzerland, and 933 participants from the Swiss Sentinel surveillance system and compared the demographic and virological data of the two populations, including the respective distribution of influenza subtypes, and conducted a phylogenetic comparison at the HA1 level of influenza viruses recovered in community and hospital cases.

Results

There were similar proportions of influenza strains recovered in the hospital and in the community (H3N2, 57.1% and 56.9%; H1N1pdm09, 15.5% and 14.2%; B, 27.4% and 28.8%, respectively). HA1 sequence analysis confirmed that all three strains were genetically similar between the two populations. During this particular season, influenza cases were detected earlier in the hospital than in the Sentinel system.

Conclusions

Although an influenza surveillance system based on the community can predict the type of influenza strains that will be associated with hospitalizations, it fails to estimate the potential virulence of circulating strains. Further, the population characteristics in the community differ from those in hospitalized patients. This suggests that any national influenza surveillance system should include both community‐ and hospital‐based surveys.
Point of no return – absence of returning birds in the otherwise philopatric willow warbler Phylloscopus trochilus
Authors: Hedlund Johanna S. U. , Sjösten Frida , Sokolovskis Kristaps , Jakobsson Sven
Published: July 2016

The return of individual birds to a specific area in successional years, i.e. philopatry, is a remarkable behavioural trait. Here we report on the remarkably reversed: the complete absence of returning individuals of a migratory passerine with otherwise pronounced philopatry. At a high latitude study site in Abisko (68°32ʹN, 18°80ʹE) in northern Sweden none of the banded adult willow warblers Phylloscopus trochilus returned to breed 2011–2014. This is in stark contrast to all other reports in the literature and also to our two southern study sites (at 56°56ʹN, 18°10ʹE and at 58°94ʹN, 17°14ʹE) where 18–38% of adults returned. We investigated this aberrant pattern found in Abisko by analysing three parameters known to influence philopatry; nest predation, breeding success and breeding density, and predicted that absence of philopatry should co‐occur with low breeding success, low breeding density and/or high nest predation. The results did not corroborate this, except that breeding density was lower at Abisko (49–71 pairs km–2) than at the southern sites (106 pairs km–2, 101 pairs km–2). Instead, we suggest the hypothesis that the absence of philopatry is caused by an influx of southern, dispersal‐prone individuals deploying another breeding strategy and that this intra‐specific range expansion is enabled by milder climate and low population density.
Predictors of shell size in long‐lived lake gastropods
Authors: Neubauer Thomas A. , Georgopoulou Elisavet , Harzhauser Mathias , Mandic Oleg , Kroh Andreas
Published: July 2016

Aim

To investigate shell size variation among gastropod faunas of fossil and recent long‐lived European lakes and discuss potential underlying processes.

Location

Twenty‐three long‐lived lakes of the Miocene to Recent of Europe.

Methods

Based on a dataset of 1412 species of both fossil and extant lacustrine gastropods, we assessed differences in shell size in terms of characteristics of the faunas (species richness, degree of endemism, differences in family composition) and the lakes (surface area, latitude and longitude of lake centroid, distance to closest neighbouring lake) using multiple and linear regression models. Because of a strong species–area relationship, we used resampling to determine whether any observed correlation is driven by that relationship.

Results

The regression models indicated size range expansion rather than unidirectional increase or decrease as the dominant pattern of size evolution. The multiple regression models for size range and maximum and minimum size were statistically significant, while the model with mean size was not. Individual contributions and linear regressions indicated species richness and lake surface area as best predictors for size changes. Resampling analysis revealed no significant effects of species richness on the observed patterns. The correlations are comparable across families of different size classes, suggesting a general pattern.

Main conclusions

Among the chosen variables, species richness and lake surface area are the most robust predictors of shell size in long‐lived lake gastropods. Although the most outstanding and attractive examples for size evolution in lacustrine gastropods come from lakes with extensive durations, shell size appears to be independent of the duration of the lake as well as longevity of a species. The analogue of long‐lived lakes as ‘evolutionary islands’ does not hold for developments of shell size because different sets of parameters predict size changes.
Subclinical Organ Damage in White‐Coat Hypertension: The Possible Role of Cystatin C
Authors: Androulakis Emmanuel , Papageorgiou Nikolaos , Lioudaki Eirini , Chatzistamatiou Evaggelos , Zacharia Effimia , Kallikazaros Ioannis , Tousoulis Dimitris
Published: July 2016

The authors investigated the relationship of white‐coat hypertension (WCH) with subclinical organ damage and potential relevant mechanisms. A total of 386 untreated patients were enrolled and divided into 204 patients with WCH and 183 with normotension. Flow‐mediated dilation (FMD), pulse wave velocity (PWV), intima‐media thickness, left ventricular mass index (LVMI), and cystatin C levels were measured. All tests were two‐sided, and a P value <.05 was considered statistically significant. The WCH group exhibited higher LVMI and PWV values, decreased E/A ratio and FMD values, and increased prevalence for left ventricular hypertrophy compared with controls (P<.001 for all). Cystatin C was significantly higher in the WCH group compared with controls (P=.035) and was positively associated with LVMI (P<.05 for both). The presence of WCH is associated with more pronounced subclinical organ damage compared with normotension. Cystatin C may play a significant role and therefore warrants further investigation.
Strengthening the Rule of Law in the EU: The Council's Inaction
Authors: Oliver Peter , Stefanelli Justine
Published: July 2016

In May 2014 the Legal Service of the Council delivered an opinion on the European Commission's Rule of Law Framework, stating the Commission's new mechanism was unlawful. This article sets out a critical analysis of this opinion, and questions whether the annual rule of law dialogue announced by the Council in December 2014 is a feasible response. Hungary is used as a case study to highlight the total failure of the Council to take any action whatsoever in the face of the grave and systemic abuses of human rights committed by the government of that country since 2010; and Poland where an autocratic regime has been in place since the autumn of 2015 is also mentioned. This is contrasted with the efforts of the majority of the Members of the European Parliament to tackle the acute challenge and with the Commission's action on specific breaches. A co‐ordinated strategy is sorely needed.
Periodontal condition in relation to intake of omega‐3 and omega‐6 polyunsaturated fatty acids
Authors: Jauhiainen Leena , Ylöstalo Pekka , Männistö Satu , Kanerva Noora , Knuuttila Matti , Suominen Anna L.
Published: July 2016

Aim

To examine whether the intake of omega‐3 and omega‐6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) is associated with periodontal condition.

Material and Methods

The study population consisted of non‐smoking, non‐diabetic and non‐rheumatoid individuals in the Health 2000 Survey in Finland. Analyses were made in two age groups: 30–49 years (n = 1212) and 50–79 years (n = 980). Clinically determined sextants with gingival bleeding and teeth with periodontal pockets were used as outcome variables. Dietary data were collected by a validated food frequency questionnaire. Energy‐adjusted intakes of arachidonic acid (AA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), omega‐3 and omega‐6 PUFAs, as well as ratios of EPA/AA and of DHA/AA, and omega‐3/omega‐6 PUFAs were used as exposures. Prevalence rate ratios were estimated using Poisson regression models.

Results

In this population, there were no statistically significant associations between the examined omega‐3 or omega‐6 fatty acids or their ratios and the periodontal outcome variables.

Conclusions

This cross‐sectional study provided evidence that individual omega‐3 or omega‐6 fatty acids, their subclasses or ratios are not associated with periodontal health among a non‐diabetic, non‐rheumatoid and non‐smoking population.
Periodontal infectogenomics: systematic review of associations between host genetic variants and subgingival microbial detection
Authors: Nibali Luigi , Di Iorio Anna , Onabolu Olanrewaju , Lin Guo‐Hao
Published: July 2016

Background

Recent research is increasingly showing that host genetic variants can affect the colonization by specific microbes. The aim of this study was to systematically investigate the associations between host genetic variants and subgingival microbial detection and counts.

Materials and Methods

A systematic search of the literature was conducted in Ovid Medline, Embase, LILACS and Cochrane Library for studies reporting data on host genetic variants and detection of microbes subgingivally.

Results

A total of 43 studies were included in the review, from an initial search of 3887 titles. Studies consisted mainly of candidate gene studies and of one genome‐wide analysis. Some promising associations were detected between single nucleotide polymorphisms and microbial detection. The only feasible meta‐analysis failed to show any association between Interleukin 1 (IL1) genetic variants and detection of periodontopathogenic bacteria subgingivally.

Conclusions

There is no evidence yet that neither IL1 genetic polymorphisms nor other investigated genetic polymorphisms are associated with presence and counts of subgingival bacteria. Further studies on large populations with replication samples should clarify the possible effects of other genetic variants on the subgingival microbiota.
Reliability of the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale and a 4‐point scale in evaluating linear facial surgical scars
Authors: Liu X. , Nelemans P.J. , Van Winden M. , Kelleners‐Smeets N.W.J. , Mosterd K.
Published: July 2016

Background

In order to evaluate and improve aesthetic outcome for patients undergoing dermatological surgery, a reliable evaluation tool must be used. The 4‐point scale and the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) were both developed for this purpose.

Objective

To compare the reliability of thePOSASscale with the 4‐point scale for facial linear surgical scars and to assess the influence of different scar characteristics on the overall impression.

Methods

Patients visiting the outpatient clinics of the Maastricht University Medical Centre with linear facial scars were included. The 4‐point scale and the Observer Scar Assessment Scale (OSAS) were completed by three independent observers. The Patient Scar Assessment Scale (PSAS) was completed by the patient on the day of the visit and 2 weeks later. The intra‐class correlation coefficient (ICC) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated to assess the reliability of the scales. Linear multivariate regression analyses were performed to evaluate how the score on each aspect affected the overall opinion.

Results

Fifty scars in 50 patients were included. TheICCof the 4‐point scale was 0.819 (95%CI: 0.708–0.892) for multiple observers and 0.602 (95%CI: 0.447–0.734) for single observer. These were superior to theICCs of totalOSASscores (0.783 95%CI: 0.547–0.888 for multiple observers and 0.546 95%CI: 0.287–0.726 for single observer).ICCs of individual sub‐items on theOSASscored even lower. The sub‐items contributed differently to the overall opinion among the different observers or patient.

Conclusion

In terms of reliability, the overall opinion and the 4‐point scale were superior to the totalPOSASscore or the sub‐items. Observers do not weight individual scar characteristics equally to arrive at an overall opinion, which challenges the assumption that calculating a totalPOSASscore by summing of the scores on the individual items is a valid approach.
Risk of periodontitis in patients with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Egeberg A. , Mallbris L. , Gislason G. , Hansen P.R. , Mrowietz U.
Published: July 2016

Background

Psoriasis and periodontitis are chronic inflammatory disorders with overlapping inflammatory pathways, but data on risk of periodontitis in psoriasis are scarce and a possible pathogenic link is poorly understood.

Objective

We investigated the association between psoriasis and periodontitis in a nationwide cohort study.

Methods

All Danish individuals aged ≥18 years between 1 January 1997 and 31 December 2011 (n = 5,470,428), including 54 210 and 6988 patients with mild and severe psoriasis, and 6428 with psoriatic arthritis, were linked through administrative registers. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) were estimated by Poisson regression.

Results

Incidence rates of periodontitis per 10 000 person‐years were 3.07 (3.03–3.12), 5.89 (1.07–6.84), 8.27 (5.50–12.45) and 11.12 (7.87–15.73) for the reference population, mild psoriasis, severe psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis respectively. Adjusted IRRs were (1.66; 1.43–1.94) for mild psoriasis, (2.24; 1.46–3.44) for severe psoriasis and (3.48; 2.46–4.92) for psoriatic arthritis. Similar results were found when a case–control design was applied.

Conclusions

We found a significant psoriasis‐associated increased risk of periodontitis, which was highest in patients with severe psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
Trichoblastoma: is a clinical or dermoscopic diagnosis possible?
Authors: Ghigliotti G. , De Col E. , Parodi A. , Bombonato C. , Argenziano G.
Published: July 2016

Background

Trichoblastoma is a rare benign skin tumour that must be differentiated from basal cell carcinoma for its benign course and favourable outcome.

Objectives

To describe clinical and dermoscopic features of solitary primitive trichoblastoma and to compare them with trichoblastic basal cell carcinoma (tBCC).

Methods

Digital dermoscopic images of 19 trichoblastoma and 19 tBCC were compared and reviewed by a dermatologist experienced in dermoscopy.

Results

The most striking dermoscopic difference between trichoblastoma and tBCC was the presence of blue‐grey globules and blue‐grey ovoid nests that were found to be more frequent but not exclusive of tBCC. Arborizing vessels were found both in trichoblastoma and tBCC, with a lower frequency in the latter.

Conclusion

Histology remains the gold standard to differentiate trichoblastoma from tBCC.
Alternative reproductive tactics and reproductive success in male Carollia perspicillata (Seba's short‐tailed bat)
Authors: Fasel N. , Saladin V. , Richner H.
Published: July 2016

The use of alternative reproductive tactics (ARTs) is widespread in animals. Males of some species may change tactics depending on age, body condition and social environment. Many bat species are polygynous where a fraction of males only have access to fertile females. For polygynous bats, knowledge of the reproductive success of males using different ARTs is scarce, and it remains unclear how age of males is related to switching decisions between social statuses. We studied a large captive population of Carollia perspicillata, where males are either harem holders, bachelors or peripheral males. Using a multistate procedure, we modelled the age‐related switches in reproductive tactics and in survival probability. From the model, we calculated the reproductive success and the frequencies of males displaying different reproductive tactics. As in mammals, the switch between social statuses is often related to age, we predicted that the transition probability of bachelor and peripheral males to harem status would increase with age. We show, however, that social status transition towards a harem holding position was not related to age. Reproductive success changed with age and social status. Harem males had a significantly higher reproductive success than bachelor males except between a short period from 3.8 to 4.4 years of age where success was similar, and a significantly higher reproductive success than peripheral males between 2.6 and 4.4 years of age. Harem males showed a clear decrease in the probability of maintaining social status with age, which suggests that senescence reduces resource holding potential.
Efficacy of Diode Laser and Gluma on Post‐Preparation Sensitivity: A Randomized Split‐Mouth Clinical Study
Authors: Kara Haluk Baris , Cakan Umut , Yilmaz Burcu , Inan Kurugol Pelin
Published: July 2016

Objective

This study aimed to compare the efficacy of a 940‐nm diode laser and Gluma desensitizer on post‐preparation sensitivity of prepared teeth.

Materials and Methods

Twenty patients with 76 teeth participated in the study. For each patient, prepared molar or premolar in one quadrant were individually irradiated by laser. In the symmetrical quadrant, Gluma was applied onto the prepared teeth. No treatment was performed in the control group. Temporary crowns were placed after preparation. Pain response to tactile stimulus was assessed at one day, one week, and two weeks using visual analog scale (VAS). Intergroup comparisons were made with Kruskal Wallis test (p < 0.05).

Results

Mean VAS scores of the control group were statistically higher than laser and Gluma groups (p < 0.017). The difference between VAS scores of the laser and Gluma groups was statistically insignificant (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

A significant reduction in level of sensitivity after both treatments was observed. The reduction of sensitivity with Gluma was not significantly superior to laser. No significant additional reduction occurred in level of sensitivity from the first day to the second week after both treatments.

Clinical Significance

The application of Gluma or a 940‐nm diode laser may be considered as effective in reducing sensitivity after tooth preparation without superiority of either method. (J Esthet Restor Dent 28:405–411, 2016)
Temporal flood incidence forecasting for Segamat River (Malaysia) using autoregressive integrated moving average modelling
Authors: Ab Razak N.H. , Aris A.Z. , Ramli M.F. , Looi L.J. , Juahir H.
Published: July 2016

Accurate and efficient flood forecasting system can improve the emergency rescue plans and help avoid the loss of lives. This study aims to identify the trends in rainfall and streamflow in Segamat River (Malaysia) by using Mann–Kendall trend analysis, to develop time series flood forecasting model by the application of autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) modelling approach. The accuracy of the optimal ARIMA model was verified by Spearman's rank correlation and linear regression analysis. The best ARIMA model was ARIMA (0, 1, 2). Trend analysis indicates that there was a trend of significant increase in rainfall rates at Kemelah Station and significant decrease at the Bandar Segamat Station, whereas streamflows at Bandar Segamat showed a trend of significant decrease. There was also a trend of decrease in streamflow over the study period. The applications of statistical modelling are beneficial to relevant authorities in understanding the flood patterns, trends and their potential risk.
Stability criteria for flooded vehicles: a state‐of‐the‐art review
Authors: Martínez‐Gomariz E. , Gómez M. , Russo B. , Djordjević S.
Published: July 2016

Hazard conditions related to vehicular circulation are important in flood risk management. The knowledge of vehicles stability when those are exposed to flooding is crucial for an informed flood risk management in urban areas. After losing stability, the vehicle becomes buoyant and may be washed away with potential injuries and fatalities. Therefore, the analysis of the stability of vehicles exposed to flooding is important in order to make decisions to reduce the damages and hazards. Herein a comprehensive state‐of‐the‐art on stability of vehicles exposed to flooding is presented. The different studies have been gathered in experimental, theoretical and guidelines proposals and all of them focusing on parked vehicles. There is a clear need to conduct more research in this field by testing a greater variety of models in order to offer a more general methodology to define stability threshold for any vehicle exposed to flooding. Nevertheless, in this work, it has been demonstrate that the most safety stability criterion for vehicles exposed to flooding up to now is the proposed in the Guide AR&R.
Effect of grain‐scale pressure variations on garnet growth: a numerical approach
Authors: Zhong X. , Vrijmoed J.C. , Tajčmanová L.
Published: July 2016

Grain‐scale pressure variations have recently been investigated due to its significant effect on the observed microstructures and chemical redistribution in metamorphic rocks. In this study, the impact of grain‐scale pressure variation on a growing garnet grain is investigated. We model prograde garnet growth at fluid‐saturated conditions and sufficiently low temperature (<650 °C) to avoid modification of the inner part of the grain by diffusion. The method uses the Perple_X computer program package combined with Matlab® scripts allowing for a heterogeneous fluid pressure distribution around the growing grain. It is shown that the pressure variation around the grain may result in an asymmetric chemical zonation. Motivated by the result, we apply the model to selected published prograde paths to evaluate the magnitude of the pressure variation that is necessary for the development of the asymmetric zoning preserved in the samples. The magnitude of such a pressure gradient in the selected samples may correspond up to 1 kbar. Finally, it is demonstrated that the modelling of asymmetric chemical zoning in garnet under a pressure gradient may improve the precision of thermobarometric constraints. The numerical model evaluates the effect of the pressure gradient on a growing grain and thus can serve as a benchmark tool in future development of fully coupled models involving rock deformation and mineral reactions.
Blackheads, whiteheads, femoral head
Authors: Osowicki Joshua , Wong Ke Juin , Donnan Leo , Bryant Penelope A
Published: July 2016

See Answer
Examining the relationship between childhood health conditions and health service utilisation at school entry and subsequent academic performance in a large cohort of Australian children
Authors: Nasuuna Esther , Santoro Giuseppe , Kremer Peter , de Silva Andrea M
Published: July 2016

Aim

Chronic health conditions are associated with poor academic outcomes. This study examines the relationship between health conditions, specialist health service utilisation and academic performance in Australian children.

Methods

This was a quasi‐longitudinal study where School Entrant Health Questionnaire (a survey tool with parent report on children's health) data for 24 678 children entering school in 2008 was matched with the 2011 National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN). Linear and logistic regressions were used to examine associations between health conditions, use of a specialist health service and reading and numeracy scores.

Results

The study comprised 24 678 children. Children with allergies, very low birth weight, developmental delay, diabetes, spina bifida, cystic fibrosis, birth abnormality, speech problems, intellectual disability and attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder had lower numeracy scores than those without any of these conditions (P < 0.05). The same children had higher odds (1.2–5.8) of being at or below the national minimum standard for numeracy. Children with developmental delay, epilepsy, dental problems, speech, intellectual disabilities and low birth weight had lower reading scores than those without these conditions (P < 0.05) and had higher odds of being at (odds ratio: 1.3) or below (odds ratio: 3.7) the national minimum standard for reading. Children with health conditions who had ever accessed specialist health services did not differ in their academic performance from those that had not used specialist health services.

Conclusions

Some health conditions put children at risk of poorer academic performance, and interventions to prevent this such as appropriate support services in schools should be considered.
Evaluation of malnutrition as a predictor of adverse outcomes in febrile neutropenia associated with paediatric haematological malignancies
Authors: Chaudhuri Jasodhara , Biswas Tamoghna , Datta Jyotishka , Sabui Tapas Kumar , Chatterjee Sukanta , Ray Somosri , Raychaudhuri Dibyendu , Mandal Kalyanbrata , Chatterjee Kaushani , Chakraborty Swapna
Published: July 2016

Aim

Malnutrition has been reported in the literature to be adversely associated with outcomes in paediatric malignancies. Our objective in this paper was to evaluate malnutrition as a potential predictor for adverse outcomes in febrile neutropenia associated with haematological malignancies.

Methods

A prospective observational study was performed in a tertiary care teaching hospital of Kolkata, India. Forty‐eight participants, suffering from haematological malignancy, were included. Participants were included if they experienced at least one episode of febrile neutropenia. For children aged <5 years, weight for height, height for age and weight for age were used as criteria for defining malnutrition, while body mass index for age was used in children ≥5 years. A total of 162 episodes of febrile neutropenia were studied.

Results

Thirty patients (30/48, 62.5%) included in the study had malnutrition. In bivariate analyses at patient level, there is a strong association between malnutrition and death (odds ratio (OR) 7.286, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.838–63.345, one‐tailed P = 0.044), and life‐threatening complications show a moderate trend towards significance (OR 3.333, 95% CI 0.791–14.052, one‐tailed P = 0.084). Survival functions were significantly different between malnourished and non‐malnourished children (log rank test χ2 = 4.609, degree of freedom = 1, P = 0.032). Wasting was associated with life‐threatening complications in children aged <5 years (OR 14, 95% CI 1.135–172.642, one‐tailed P = 0.036). Logistic regression analyses at episode level revealed that phase of treatment and respiratory system involvement were significant predictors of death, while malnutrition was not.

Conclusion

Malnutrition may be a potential predictor of mortality in febrile neutropenia.
Nitrogen fixation by the diazotroph Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii (Cyanophyceae)
Authors: Willis Anusuya , Chuang Ann W. , Burford Michele A.
Published: July 2016

Nitrogen fixation has been proposed as a mechanism that allows the diazotrophic cyanobacterium, Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii, to bloom in nitrogen‐limited freshwater systems. However, it is unclear whether dinitrogen fixation (N2 fixation) can supplement available dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) for growth, or only provides minimum nitrogen (N) for cell maintenance under DIN deplete conditions. Additionally, the rate at which cells can switch between DIN use and N2 fixation is unknown. This study investigated N2 fixation under a range of nitrate concentrations. Cultures were grown with pretreatments of nitrate replete (single dose 941 μmol  · L−1) and N‐free conditions and then either received a single dose of 941 μmol  · L−1 (N941), 118 μmol  · L−1 (N118) or 0 N. Heterocysts appeared from days 3 to 5 when treatments of high were transferred to N free media (N941:N0), and from day 5 in N941 transferred to N118 treatments. Conversely, transferring cells from N0 to N941 resulted in heterocysts being discarded from day 3 and day 5 for N0:N118. Heterocyst appearance correlated with a detectable rate of N2 fixation and up‐regulation of nifH gene expression, the discard of heterocysts occurred after sequential reduction of nifH expression and N2 fixation. Nitrate uptake rates were not affected by pretreatment, suggesting no regulation or saturation of this uptake pathway. These data demonstrate that for C. raciborskii, N2 fixation is regulated by the production or discard of heterocysts. In conclusion, this study has shown that N2 fixation only provides enough N to support relatively low growth under N‐limited conditions, and does not supplement available nitrate to increase growth rates.
Appraising the Shelf Life of Farmed Cobia, Rachycentron canadum, by Application of a Quality Index Method
Authors: Fogaça Fabíola Helena dos Santos , Gonzaga Junior Marcondes Agostinho , Vieira Sidely Gil Alves , Araujo Thais Danyelle Santos , Farias Emanuel Airton , Ferreira‐Bravo Irani Alves , Silva Thiago Fernandes Alves , Calvet Rodrigo Maciel , Pereira Alitiene Lemos Moura , Prentice‐Hernández Carlos
Published: July 2016

Freshness is the main concern of seafood quality, and the principal method to evaluate seafood freshness is sensory evaluation. The aim of this work was to study the quality changes of cobia, Rachycentron canadum, under ice storage through sensory and physical analysis as well as bacterial counting of specific spoilage organisms (SSOs). In particular, the utilization of a quality index method (QIM) scheme was proposed. Samples stored for 0–30 d were analyzed with the QIM. Ten panelists observed and registered the changes occurring in the fish starting on day zero and ending when the fish were spoiled. After developing the scheme, 11 sensory attributes were described in 23 points, which detailed the appearance of skin, eyes, abdomen, gills, and flesh deterioration. The volatile nitrogen compound measurements and microbiological data of the SSOs determined a shelf‐life of 19 d for the samples. Sensory analysis showed a rejection point at 15.67 d of ice storage. The natural degradation of myofibrillar proteins and collagen was observed during ice storage. In conclusion, a shelf‐life of 15 d was defined for raw cobia stored on ice.
Risk factors, clinical presentation and prognosis of mixed candidaemia: a population‐based surveillance in Spain
Authors: Ramos Antonio , Romero Yolanda , Sánchez‐Romero Isabel , Fortún Jesús , Paño José Ramón , Pemán Javier , Gurguí Mercè , Rodríguez‐Baño Jesús , Padilla Belén
Published: July 2016

The low incidence of mixed candidaemia (MC) may have precluded a better knowledge of its clinical presentation. The aim of the study was to analyse the risk factors, clinical presentation and prognosis of MC episodes. A comparison between MC and monomicrobial candidaemia within a prospective programme on candidaemia was performed in 29 hospitals between April 2010 and May 2011. In fifteen episodes of candidaemia corresponding to 15 patients, out of 752, two species of Candida (1.9%) were isolated. MC was more frequent in patients with HIV infection (12%, P = 0.038) and those admitted due to extensive burns (23%, P = 0.012). The Candida species most frequently identified in MC were C. albicans 12 patients (40%), C. glabrata seven patients (23.3%) and C. parapsilosis six patients (20%). Early mortality was higher (nine patients, 60%) in patients with MC than in patients with MMC (223 patients, 30.3%, P = 0.046). In conclusion, MC was was independently associated with increased mortality even after considering other prognostic factors. MC is an infrequent event that is more common in HIV infection and in patients suffering from burns, and is associated with increased mortality.
Landscape genomics reveals altered genome wide diversity within revegetated stands of Eucalyptus microcarpa (Grey Box)
Authors: Jordan Rebecca , Dillon Shannon K. , Prober Suzanne M. , Hoffmann Ary A.
Published: July 2016

In order to contribute to evolutionary resilience and adaptive potential in highly modified landscapes, revegetated areas should ideally reflect levels of genetic diversity within and across natural stands. Landscape genomic analyses enable such diversity patterns to be characterized at genome and chromosomal levels.

Landscape‐wide patterns of genomic diversity were assessed in Eucalyptus microcarpa, a dominant tree species widely used in revegetation in Southeastern Australia. Trees from small and large patches within large remnants, small isolated remnants and revegetation sites were assessed across the now highly fragmented distribution of this species using the DArTseq genomic approach.

Genomic diversity was similar within all three types of remnant patches analysed, although often significantly but only slightly lower in revegetation sites compared with natural remnants. Differences in diversity between stand types varied across chromosomes. Genomic differentiation was higher between small, isolated remnants, and among revegetated sites compared with natural stands.

We conclude that small remnants and revegetated sites of our E. microcarpa samples largely but not completely capture patterns in genomic diversity across the landscape. Genomic approaches provide a powerful tool for assessing restoration efforts across the landscape.
The auxin response factor MONOPTEROS controls meristem function and organogenesis in both the shoot and root through the direct regulation of PIN genes
Authors: Krogan Naden T. , Marcos Danielle , Weiner Aaron I. , Berleth Thomas
Published: July 2016

The regulatory effect auxin has on its own transport is critical in numerous self‐organizing plant patterning processes. However, our understanding of the molecular mechanisms linking auxin signal transduction and auxin transport is still fragmentary, and important regulatory genes remain to be identified.

To track a key link between auxin signaling and auxin transport in development, we established an Arabidopsis thaliana genetic background in which fundamental patterning processes in both shoot and root were essentially abolished and the expression of PIN FORMED (PIN) auxin efflux facilitators was dramatically reduced.

In this background, we demonstrate that activating a steroid‐inducible variant of the auxin response factor (ARF) MONOPTEROS (MP) is sufficient to restore patterning and PIN gene expression. Further, we show that MP binds to distinct promoter elements of multiple genetically defined PIN genes.

Our work identifies a direct regulatory link between central, well‐characterized genes involved in auxin signal transduction and auxin transport. The steroid‐inducible MP system directly demonstrates the importance of this molecular link in multiple patterning events in embryos, shoots and roots, and provides novel options for interrogating the properties of self‐regulated auxin‐based patterning in planta.
Contribution of immunomodulators to gastroesophageal reflux disease and its complications: stromal cells, interleukin 4, and adiponectin
Authors: Li Jing , Chen Xiaoxin Luke , Shaker Anisa , Oshima Tadayuki , Shan Jing , Miwa Hiroto , Feng Cheng , Zhang Jun
Published: July 2016

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has become the most commonly seen gastrointestinal disorder in outpatient clinics. In the United States, around 20% of the general population experience heartburn on a weekly basis. Although clinical complaints can be mild or moderate, patients with GERD may develop further complications, such as peptic strictures, Barrett's esophagus (BE), and even esophageal adenocarcinoma. Pathologically, GERD is developed as a result of chronic and enhanced exposure of the esophageal epithelium to noxious gastric refluxate. In this review article, we provide an overview of GERD and then focus on the roles of stromal cells, interleukin 4, and adiponectin in GERD and BE. The importance of inflammation and immunomodulators in GERD pathogenesis is highlighted. Targeting the immunomodulators or inflammation in general may improve the therapeutic outcome of GERD, in particular, in those refractory to proton pump inhibitors.
The Danish Neck Disability Index: New Insights into Factor Structure, Generalizability, and Responsiveness
Authors: Lauridsen Henrik H. , O'Neill Lotte , Kongsted Alice , Hartvigsen Jan
Published: July 2016

Objective

To (1) translate and culturally adapt and (2) determine the clinimetric properties of the Danish 8‐item Neck Disability Index (NDI‐8) in primary sector patients (PSPs) and secondary sector patients (SSPs).

Methods

Analyses included 326 patients with neck pain. Validity and reliability were assessed using a cross‐validation factor analytical design, hypothesis testing, internal consistency, measurement error, the smallest detectable change (SDC), and a generalizability study. Criterion and construct responsiveness, minimal important change (MIC), and floor and ceiling effects were determined.

Results

The original Danish version of the NDI was not unidimensional. Omitting 2 items (pain, headache) revealed a 1‐factor structure (NDI‐8). Construct validity correctly predicted 88% of the hypotheses. Internal consistency (Cronbach's α) ranged between 0.88 and 0.89, and generalizability was high (Φ = 0.90). The SDC was 6.8 in PSPs and 5.9 in SSPs. Criterion responsiveness revealed poor areas under the curve for SSPs (0.58 to 0.64), and construct responsiveness was poor for PSPs (43% correctly predicted hypothesis). A floor effect of 26.5% was found in PSPs, with a change of 4 points representing the MIC.

Conclusion

The modified Danish 8‐item NDI was unidimensional, had construct validity, and was reproducible with a large but acceptable measurement error. However, responsiveness was poor and a significant floor effect was found in PSPs. A change score representing the MIC is proposed for PSPs.