bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Race in an epigenetic time: thinking biology in the plural
Authors: Meloni Maurizio
Published: March 2017

The notion that biological memories of environmental experiences can be embedded in the human genome and even transmitted transgenerationally is increasingly relevant in the postgenomic world, particularly in molecular epigenetics, where the genome is conceptualized as porous to environmental signals. In this article I discuss the current rethinking of race in epigenetic rather than genetic terms, emphasizing some of its paradoxical implications, especially for public policy. I claim in particular that: (i) if sociologists want to investigate race in a postgenomic world they should pay more attention to this novel plastic and biosocial view of race; and (ii) there are no reasons to believe that an epigenetic view will extinguish race, or that soft‐inheritance claims will produce a less exclusionary discourse than genetics (hard heredity). Quite the opposite, the ground for a re‐racialization of social debates and the reinforcement of biological boundaries between groups are highlighted in the article.
Crowding‐in: how Indian civil society organizations began mobilizing around climate change
Authors: Ylä‐Anttila Tuomas , Swarnakar Pradip
Published: March 2017

This paper argues that periodic waves of crowding‐in to ‘hot’ issue fields are a recurring feature of how globally networked civil society organizations operate, especially in countries of the Global South. We elaborate on this argument through a study of Indian civil society mobilization around climate change. Five key mechanisms contribute to crowding‐in processes: (1) the expansion of discursive opportunities; (2) the event effects of global climate change conferences; (3) the network effects created by expanding global civil society networks; (4) the adoption and innovation of action repertoires; and (5) global pressure effects creating new opportunities for civil society. Our findings contribute to the world society literature, with an account of the social mechanisms through which global institutions and political events affect national civil societies, and to the social movements literature by showing that developments in world society are essential contributors to national mobilization processes.
Endophytic fungi alter sucking bug responses to cotton reproductive structures
Authors: Sword Gregory A. , Tessnow Ashley , Ek‐Ramos Maria Julissa
Published: March 2017

All plants including cotton host a wide range of microorganisms as endophytes. There is a growing appreciation of the prevalence, ecological significance and management potential of facultative fungal endophytes in protecting plants from pests, pathogens and environmental stressors. Hemipteran sucking bugs have emerged as major pests across the U.S. cotton belt, reducing yields directly by feeding on developing reproductive structures and indirectly by vectoring plant pathogens. We used no‐choice and simultaneous choice assays to examine the host selection behavior of western tarnished plant bugs (Lygus hesperus) and southern green stink bugs (Nezara viridula) in response to developing flower buds and fruits from cotton plants colonized by 1 of 2 candidate beneficial fungal endophytes, Phialemonium inflatum or Beauveria bassiana. Both insect species exhibited strong negative responses to flower buds (L. hesperus) and fruits (N. viridula) from plants that had been colonized by candidate endophytic fungi relative to control plants under both no‐choice and choice conditions. Behavioral responses of both species indicated that the insects were deterred prior to contact with plant tissues from endophyte‐colonized plants, suggesting a putative role for volatile compounds in mediating the negative response. Our results highlight the role of fungal endophytes as plant mutualists that can have positive effects on plant resistance to pests.
Comorbidity of Internet gaming disorder and alcohol use disorder: A focus on clinical characteristics and gaming patterns
Authors: Na Euihyeon , Lee Hyeseon , Choi Inyoung , Kim Dai‐Jin
Published: March 2017

Background and Objectives

Although Internet gaming disorder (IGD), which has been considered as a behavioral addiction in DSM‐5, shares core features with alcohol use disorder (AUD), there has been minimal research on the clinical implications of the comorbidity between IGD and AUD. The purpose of this study is to investigate clinical psychopathologies and Internet game usage patterns of IGD, AUD, and their comorbid status.

Methods

Participants (n = 1819) completed a cross‐sectional web‐based survey. The survey questionnaire included socio‐demographic data, the IGD scale according to DSM‐5 criteria, the Korean version of Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test for AUD, the Dickman Impulsivity Inventory (DII)‐short version for impulsivity, the Brief Self‐Control Scale (BSCS) for self‐control, the subscales of the Symptom Check‐List 90 Items‐Revised (SCL‐90‐R) for depression and anxiety, and the Behavioral Inhibition System/Behavioral Approach System Scale, and the Internet game usage patterns.

Results

The comorbidity group had substantially more severe clinical features such as impulsivity, impaired self‐control, and mood symptoms than either IGD or AUD only. Especially the depression scale for the comorbidity group (26.0) is considerably higher than 13.0 for IGD and 16.0 for AUD alone. Furthermore, the comorbidity group spent twice as much money on Internet gaming as IGD alone (all p < .05).

Conclusions and Significance

The findings of this study indicate that the comorbidity between IGD with AUD showed more severe psychopathological impairments, and the respective persons spent more money on gaming than either IGD or AUD alone. These particular characteristics may serve as feasible therapeutic targets in clinical settings. (Am J Addict 2017;26:326–334)
Ex vivo infection of human placental chorionic villi explants with Trypanosoma cruzi and Toxoplasma gondii induces different Toll‐like receptor expression and cytokine/chemokine profiles
Authors: Castillo Christian , Muñoz Lorena , Carrillo Ileana , Liempi Ana , Gallardo Christian , Galanti Norbel , Maya Juan Diego , Kemmerling Ulrike
Published: March 2017

Problem

Trypanosoma cruzi and Toxoplasma gondii present, respectively, low and high congenital transmission rates. The placenta as an immune regulatory organ expresses TLRs, leading to the secretion of cytokines. Both parasites are recognized by TLR‐2, TLR‐4, and TLR‐9. Here, we studied if the parasites induce differences in TLR protein expression, cytokine profiles, and whether receptor inhibition is related to parasite infection.

Method of study

Placental tissue explants were infected ex vivo with each parasite, TLRs protein expression, cytokine profile and parasite infection were determined by Western blotting, ELISA and qPCR.

Results

Trypanosoma cruzi and Toxoplasma gondii infection is related to TLR‐2 and TLR‐4/TLR‐9, respectively. Trypanosoma cruzi elicits an increase in TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8 and IL‐10 cytokine secretion whereas T. gondii only increases the secretion of IL‐8.

Conclusion

The susceptibility of the placenta to each parasite is mediated partially by the innate immune response.
Activation of NOD‐1/JNK/IL‐8 signal axis in decidual stromal cells facilitates trophoblast invasion
Authors: Ryu Byung Jun , Han Jae Won , Kim Ryang Hee , Yun Sohyun , Kim Tae Hyun , Hur Sung Eun , Kim Chul Jung , Lee Sung Ki
Published: March 2017

Decidual stromal cells (DSCs) are known to regulate trophoblast invasion via unveiled mechanism yet. And nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain‐containing protein 1 (NOD1) may influence on this DSC‐trophoblast interaction. We investigated the mechanism underlying the DSC‐mediated regulation of trophoblast invasion and the effect of NOD1 on their cross talk. Using human primary DSCs, BeWo cell invasion was measured. Cytokine secretion and MAP kinase signaling were examined in DSCs following treatment with NOD1 agonist, Tri‐DAP. DSCs secreted IL‐8 and increased trophoblast invasion. Tri‐DAP further increased IL‐8 secretion from DSCs via JNK pathway and facilitated both MMP‐2 production and trophoblast invasion compared with control. Upon cotreatment of IL‐8 and anti‐IL‐8 antibody to BeWo cells, the number of invading trophoblasts and MMP‐2 production decreased significantly. These results suggest that IL‐8 from DSCs may play a role to increase the invasiveness of trophoblast cells into the decidua via NOD1/JNK pathway.
MicroRNAs downregulated following immune activation of rat testis
Authors: Parker Mitchell I. , Palladino Michael A.
Published: March 2017

Problem

Little is known about how infection and the response to inflammation affect the microRNA (miRNA) profile of the male reproductive tract. We hypothesized that expression of inflammatory‐related miRNAs would be altered following immune activation of rat testis.

Method of study

Testis total RNA was purified from Sprague‐Dawley rats 3 or 6 hours after receiving a 5 mg/kg intraperitoneal injection of bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and examined by qPCR using an 84‐panel miRNA array.

Results

Five inflammatory‐related miRNAs showed a greater than twofold downregulation (P<.05) in the 3‐hour group (rno‐let‐7f‐5p, rno‐miR‐200c‐3p, rno‐miR‐23a‐3p, rno‐miR‐23b‐3p, rno‐miR‐98‐5p) and five from the 6‐hour group (rno‐miR‐17‐5p, rno‐miR‐19a‐3p, rno‐miR‐34a‐5p, rno‐miR‐34c‐5p, rno‐miR‐449a‐5p).

Conclusion

Review of the literature has revealed that these miRNAs also play important roles in the maintenance of fertility, formation and elimination of cancer, and development of the male reproductive tract. Further study will lead to a greater understanding of male reproductive immunology and related health issues.
Maternal obesity and inflammatory mediators: A controversial association
Authors: Pendeloski Karen Priscilla Tezotto , Ono Erika , Torloni Maria Regina , Mattar Rosiane , Daher Silvia
Published: March 2017

The link between maternal obesity and inflammatory mediators is still unclear. Our aim was to summarize the main findings of recently published studies on this topic. We performed a search in Medline for studies published in the last years on obesity, human pregnancy, and inflammatory mediators. We report the findings of 30 studies. The characteristics and number of participants, study design, gestational age at sample collection, and type of sample varied widely. Approximately two‐thirds of them investigated more than one mediator, and 50% included participants in only one trimester of pregnancy. The most frequently investigated mediators were leptin, tumour necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), and interleukin (IL)‐6. Almost all studies reported an association between maternal obesity, leptin, and C‐reactive protein (CRP) serum levels but not withIL‐1β andIL‐10. The association ofIL‐6, TNF‐α, monocyte chemo‐attractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1), adiponectin, and resistin with maternal obesity is still controversial. To clarify the physiopathological link between maternal obesity and inflammation, more high‐quality studies are needed.
Asthma management: A new phenotype‐based approach using presence of eosinophilia and allergy
Authors: Terl M. , Sedlák V. , Cap P. , Dvořáková R. , Kašák V. , Kočí T. , Novotna B. , Seberova E. , Panzner P. , Zindr V.
Published: March 2017

Asthma is a heterogeneous disease. The Czech Pneumology and Allergology Societies commissioned 10 experts to review the literature and create joint national guidelines for managing asthma, reflecting this heterogeneity. The aim was to develop an easy‐to‐use diagnostic strategy as a rational approach to the widening opportunities for the use of phenotype‐targeted therapy. The guidelines were presented on websites for public comments by members of both the societies. The reviewers’ comments contributed to creating the final version of the guidelines. The key hallmark of the diagnostic approach is the pragmatic concept, which assesses the presence of allergy and eosinophilia in each asthmatic patient. The guidelines define three clinically relevant asthma phenotypes: eosinophilic allergic asthma, eosinophilic nonallergic asthma and noneosinophilic nonallergic asthma. The resulting multifunctional classification describing the severity, level of control and phenotype is the starting point for a comprehensive treatment strategy. The level of control is constantly confronted with the intensity of the common stepwise pharmacotherapy, and the concurrently included phenotyping is essential for phenotype‐specific therapy. The concept of the asthma approach with assessing the presence of eosinophilia and allergy provides a way for more precise diagnosis, which is a prerequisite for using widening options of personalized therapy.
BTK inhibition is a potent approach to block IgE‐mediated histamine release in human basophils
Authors: Smiljkovic D. , Blatt K. , Stefanzl G. , Dorofeeva Y. , Skrabs C. , Focke‐Tejkl M. , Sperr W. R. , Jaeger U. , Valenta R. , Valent P.
Published: March 2017

Background

Recent data suggest that Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) is an emerging therapeutic target in IgE receptor (IgER)‐cross‐linked basophils.

Methods

We examined the effects of four BTK inhibitors (ibrutinib, dasatinib, AVL‐292, and CNX‐774) on IgE‐dependent activation and histamine release in blood basophils obtained from allergic patients (n=11) and nonallergic donors (n=5). In addition, we examined the effects of these drugs on the growth of the human basophil cell line KU812 and the human mast cell line HMC‐1.

Results

All four BTK blockers were found to inhibit anti‐IgE‐induced histamine release from basophils in nonallergic subjects and allergen‐induced histamine liberation from basophils in allergic donors. Drug effects on allergen‐induced histamine release were dose dependent, with IC50 values ranging between 0.001 and 0.5 μmol/L, and the following rank order of potency: ibrutinib>AVL‐292>dasatinib>CNX‐774. The basophil‐targeting effect of ibrutinib was confirmed by demonstrating that IgE‐dependent histamine release in ex vivo blood basophils is largely suppressed in a leukemia patient treated with ibrutinib. Dasatinib and ibrutinib were also found to counteract anti‐IgE‐induced and allergen‐induced upregulation of CD13, CD63, CD164, and CD203c on basophils, whereas AVL‐292 and CNX‐774 showed no significant effects. Whereas dasatinib and CNX‐774 were found to inhibit the growth of HMC‐1 cells and KU812 cells, no substantial effects were seen with ibrutinib or AVL‐292.

Conclusions

BTK‐targeting drugs are potent inhibitors of IgE‐dependent histamine release in human basophils. The clinical value of BTK inhibition in the context of allergic diseases remains to be determined.
Effect of Desmopressin on the Amount of Bleeding and Transfusion Requirements in Patients Undergoing Heart Transplant Surgery
Authors: Jahangirifard Alireza , Razavi Mohammad Reza , Ahmadi Zargham Hosein , Forozeshfard Mohammad
Published: March 2017

One of the most common risks after a heart transplant is bleeding. In this study, the effect of desmopressin administration on the amount of bleeding and transfusion requirements after heart transplant surgery was investigated. In a double‐blind clinical trial, 48 patients who were candidates for heart transplant surgery were randomly assigned to two groups. In the intervention group, patients received desmopressin of 0.3 μg/kg, 30 min. before surgery. Patients in the control group received normal saline at the same amount and time. Homeostasis was evaluated using activated clotting time (ACT), PT, PTT and PLT before, 12 and 24 hr after surgery, and also, chest tube drainage, blood products transfusion requirements during the first day in both groups. No significant differences were found between the groups in terms of ACT, PT, PTT and PLT at all times. Transfusion of packed red blood cells and the mean drainages of chest tube during the first 24 hr after surgery were significantly lower in the desmopressin group compared to the saline group. Desmopressin may reduce post‐operative bleeding in patients undergoing heart transplant surgery. Further studies are required to confirm the potential effect of desmopressin on establishing haemostasis after heart transplantation.
Oecophylla smaragdinaants provide pest control in Australian cacao
Authors: Forbes Samantha J. , Northfield Tobin D.
Published: March 2017

Ecosystem service‐driven methods of agricultural production that make optimal use of an ecosystem's natural services are often effective in smallholder crops, leading increases in habitat heterogeneity at large spatial scales that encourage beneficial species. Pollination services in cacao farms can be enhanced through efforts to conserve pollinator habitats, such as adding cacao fruit husks underneath trees to provide habitat and food resources for midge pollinators. However, it remains unclear how this habitat manipulation affects pest densities or biological control. Here, we evaluated the effects of the predaceous antOecophylla smaragdinaon three major pests of Australian cacao (Helopeltisspp.,Amblypeltaspp., andRhyparida nitida) in an Australian cacao farm, in the presence and absence of cacao fruit husks. We also evaluated the effect ofO. smaragdinaon their potentially plant‐damaging, mutualistic mealybug (Pseudococcidae) partners in the presence and absence of cacao fruit husks.Oecophylla smaragdinareduced the combined densities ofHelopeltisspp. andAmblypeltaspp., regardless of cacao fruit husk addition. The ants also reduced the densities ofR. nitidain the absence of cacao fruit husks, butR. nitidadensities were naturally low in the experimental plots that received the addition of cacao fruit husks, regardless of ant presence. In contrast, ants generally increased the densities of mealybugs. These data suggest thatO. smaragdinaants provide pest control services for three major insect pests in Australian cacao farms. Furthermore, this control may be compatible with habitat manipulations (i.e., the addition of cacao fruit husks) to improve pollinator habitat.
IL4Rα and ADAM33 as genetic markers in asthma exacerbations and type‐2 inflammatory endotype
Authors: Sunadome H. , Matsumoto H. , Petrova G. , Kanemitsu Y. , Tohda Y. , Horiguchi T. , Kita H. , Kuwabara K. , Tomii K. , Otsuka K. , Fujimura M. , Ohkura N. , Tomita K. , Yokoyama A. , Ohnishi H. , Nakano Y. , Oguma T. , Hozawa S. , Nagasaki T. , Ito I. , Oguma T. , Inoue H. , Tajiri T. , Iwata T. , Izuhara Y. , Ono J. , Ohta S. , Hirota T. , Tamari M. , Yokoyama T. , Niimi A. , Izuhara K. , Mishima M.
Published: March 2017

Background

Genetic markers of susceptibility to asthma exacerbations in adults remain unclear.

Objective

To identify genetic markers of asthma exacerbations, particularly in patients with type‐2 inflammatory endotype.

Methods

In this observational study of patients enrolled in the Kinki Hokuriku Airway disease Conference multicenter study, frequency of exacerbations requiring systemic corticosteroids during 2 years after enrolment and associated risk factors was determined. For genetic marker analysis, interleukin‐4 receptor α (IL4RA) rs8832 and a disintegrin and metalloprotease 33 (ADAM33) S_2 (rs528557), T_1 (rs2280091), T_2 (rs2280090), and V_4 (rs2787094) variants were included. Elevated serum periostin levels at enrolment (≥95 ng/mL, defined as type‐2 inflammatory endotype) were considered in the analysis.

Results

Among 217 patients who were successfully followed up for 2 years after enrolment, 60 patients showed at least one asthma exacerbation during the 2 years. Airflow limitation (%FEV1 <80%) and recent exacerbations but not genetic variants were identified as risk markers of exacerbations. A total of 27 patients showed type‐2 inflammatory endotype (serum periostin ≥95 ng/mL at enrolment) and subsequent exacerbations; risk factors in these patients were airflow limitation (odds ratio, 6.51; 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.37–18.6; P=.0003), GG genotype of IL4RA rs8832 (odds ratio, 4.01; 95% CI: 1.47–11.0; P=.007), and A allele of ADAM33 T_2 (odds ratio, 2.81; 95% CI: 1.05–7.67; P=.04) by multivariate analysis. In addition, GG genotype of IL4RA rs8832 was associated with type‐2 endotype, whereas A allele of ADAM33 T_2 was associated with mixed type of eosinophilic/type‐2 and neutrophilic inflammations.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

IL4RA and ADAM33 variants may be risk markers of asthma exacerbations in type‐2 inflammatory endotype. Precise endotyping may facilitate the identification of genetic risk markers of asthma exacerbations.
Conservation and the 4 Rs, which are rescue, rehabilitation, release, and research
Authors: Pyke Graham H. , Szabo Judit K.
Published: March 2017

Vertebrate animals can be injured or threatened with injury through human activities, thus warranting their “rescue.” Details of wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, release, and associated research (our 4 Rs) are often recorded in large databases, resulting in a wealth of available information. This information has huge research potential and can contribute to understanding of animal biology, anthropogenic impacts on wildlife, and species conservation. However, such databases have been little used, few studies have evaluated factors influencing success of rehabilitation and/or release, recommended actions to conserve threatened species have rarely arisen, and direct benefits for species conservation are yet to be demonstrated. We therefore recommend that additional research be based on data from rescue, rehabilitation, and release of animals that is broader in scope than previous research and would have community support.
Effect of delayed‐release dimethyl fumarate on no evidence of disease activity in relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis: integrated analysis of the phaseIII DEFINEandCONFIRMstudies
Authors: Havrdova E. , Giovannoni G. , Gold R. , Fox R. J. , Kappos L. , Phillips J. Theodore , Okwuokenye M. , Marantz J. L.
Published: March 2017

Background and purpose

Significant effects on clinical/neuroradiological disease activity have been reported in patients with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis treated with delayed‐release dimethyl fumarate (DMF) in phaseIII DEFINE/CONFIRMtrials. We conducted apost hocanalysis of integrated data fromDEFINE/CONFIRMto evaluate the effect ofDMFon achieving no evidence of disease activity (NEDA) in patients with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis.

Methods

The analysis included patients randomized toDMF240 mg twice daily, placebo or glatiramer acetate (CONFIRMonly) for ≤2 years. A time‐to‐event method was used to estimate the percentage of patients achievingNEDA. ClinicalNEDA(no relapses/no 12‐week confirmed disability progression) was analysed in the intention‐to‐treat (ITT) population. Neuroradiological (no new/newly enlarging T2 hyperintense lesions/no gadolinium‐enhancing lesions) and overall NEDA (clinical and neuroradiologicalNEDA) were analysed in the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) cohort.

Results

The ITTandMRIpopulations comprised 1540 and 692 patients, respectively. The percentage of patients with clinicalNEDA(ITTpopulation) and neuroradiologicalNEDA(MRIcohort) was higher withDMFversus placebo over 2 years [clinical NEDA: 38.9% relative reduction; hazard ratio (HR), 0.61; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.52‐0.72;P< 0.0001; neuroradiologicalNEDA: 40.0% relative reduction;HR, 0.60; 95%CI, 0.49–0.73;P< 0.0001]. The percentage of patients achieving overallNEDA(MRIcohort) was also higher withDMF(26%) versus placebo (12%) over 2 years, with a relative risk reduction of 42.7% (HR, 0.57; 95%CI, 0.48–0.69;P< 0.0001).

Conclusions

A significantly higher percentage of patients treated withDMFachievedNEDAstatus over 2 years compared with placebo.
Last Minute Policies and the Incumbency Advantage
Authors: Manzoni Elena , Penczynski Stefan P.
Published: March 2017

This paper models a purely informational mechanism behind the incumbency advantage. In a two-period electoral campaign with two policy issues, an incumbent and a possibly more competent challenger compete for election by voters who are heterogeneously informed about the state of the world. Due to the asymmetries in government responsibility between candidates, the incumbent’s statement may convey information on the relevance of the issues to voters. In equilibrium, the incumbent sometimes strategically releases his statement early and thus signals the importance of his signature issue to the voters. We find that, since the incumbent’s positioning on the issue reveals private information which the challenger can use in later statements, the incumbent’s incentives to distort the campaign are decreasing in his quality, as previously documented by the empirical literature. The distortions arising in equilibrium are decreasing in the incumbent’s true competence; however, the distortions may be increasing in the incumbent’s expected competence on his signature issue.
Clinical evaluation of sofosbuvir/ledipasvir in patients with chronic hepatitis C genotype 1 with and without prior daclatasvir/asunaprevir therapy
Authors: Iio Etsuko , Shimada Noritomo , Takaguchi Koichi , Senoh Tomonori , Eguchi Yuichiro , Atsukawa Masanori , Tsubota Akihito , Abe Hiroshi , Kato Keizo , Kusakabe Atsunori , Miyaki Tomokatsu , Matsuura Kentaro , Matsunami Kayoko , Shinkai Noboru , Fujiwara Kei , Nojiri Shunsuke , Tanaka Yasuhito
Published: March 2017

Aim

This study explored treatment outcomes of sofosbuvir (SOF)/ledipasvir (LDV) therapy for chronic hepatitis C patients with and without prior daclatasvir (DCV)/asunaprevir (ASV) therapy.

Methods

Overall, 530 Japanese patients who were infected with hepatitis C virus genotype 1 received SOF/LDV therapy for 12 weeks, and resistance‐associated variants (RAVs) in the hepatitis C virus non‐structural protein (NS)5A and NS5B regions were assessed at baseline and virological relapse by direct sequencing.

Results

Sustained virological response (SVR) rates did not significantly differ between patients with and without NS5A Y93H/N (94.2% [113/120] vs. 97.7% [345/353]), but the SVR rate was significantly lower in patients with prior DCV/ASV therapy compared to those without (69.2% [18/26] vs. 98.4% [496/504], P < 0.001). Among 26 patients with prior DCV/ASV therapy, the prevalence of NS5A multi‐RAVs (≥2) was similar between responders and non‐responders (61% [11/18] vs. 75% [5/8]), but all patients without RAVs achieved SVR. Multivariate analysis showed that prior DCV/ASV therapy and history of hepatocellular carcinoma were independently associated with treatment failure (odds ratio, 37.55; 95% confidence interval, 10.78–130.76; P < 0.001 for prior DCV/ASV therapy; odds ratio, 4.42; 95% confidence interval, 1.09–18.04; P = 0.03 for the history of HCC). All SOF/LDV failure patients (n = 8) with prior DCV/ASV treatment had two or more factors of cirrhosis, IL28B unfavorable genotype, and baseline NS5A multi‐RAVs. The multiple NS5A RAVs had increased but NS5B substitutions, C316N/A207T/A218S or L159F, had not changed at the time of relapse.

Conclusions

Prior DCV/ASV therapy is associated with failure of SOF/LDV therapy due to multiple RAVs.
Prognostic significance of tumour infiltrating B lymphocytes in breast ductal carcinoma in situ
Authors: Miligy Islam , Mohan Priya , Gaber Ahmed , Aleskandarany Mohammed A , Nolan Christopher C , Diez‐Rodriguez Maria , Mukherjee Abhik , Chapman Caroline , Ellis Ian O , Green Andrew R , Rakha Emad A
Published: March 2017

Aims

Tumour‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) are an important component of the immune response to cancer and have a prognostic value in breast cancer. Although several studies have investigated the role of T lymphocytes in breast cancer, the role of B lymphocytes (TIL‐Bs) in ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) remains uncertain. This study aimed to assess the role of TIL‐Bs in DCIS.

Methods and results

Eighty DCIS cases (36 pure DCIS and 44 mixed with invasive cancer) were stained immunohistochemically for B lineage markers CD19, CD20 and the plasma cell marker CD138. TIL‐Bs density and localization were assessed, including relation to the in‐situ and invasive components. An association with clinicopathological data and patient outcome was performed. Pure DCIS showed a higher number of TIL‐Bs and lymphoid aggregates than DCIS associated with invasion. In pure DCIS, a higher number of peri‐ and paratumoral TIL‐Bs was associated significantly with large tumour size (P = 0.016), hormone receptor (ER/PR) negative (P = 0.008) and HER2+ status (P = 0.010). In tumours with mixed DCIS and invasive components, cases with high‐density B lymphocytes, irrespective of their location or topographic distribution, were associated significantly with variables of poor prognosis, including larger size, high grade, lymphovascular invasion, lymph node metastases, ER/PR‐negative and HER2+ status. Outcome analysis showed that pure DCIS associated with higher numbers of B lymphocytes had shorter recurrence‐free interval (P = 0.04); however, the association was not significant with the CD138+ plasma cell count (P = 0.07).

Conclusion

Assessment of TIL‐B cells based on location and topographic distribution can provide prognostic information. Validation in a larger cohort is warranted.
The influence of tectonic subsidence on volcaniclastic sedimentation: The Cretaceous upper Daeri Member, Wido Island, Korea
Authors: Gihm Yong Sik , Kim Min‐Cheol , Son Moon , Hwang In Gul
Published: March 2017

The Daeri Member, a Cretaceous volcanic–sedimentary succession, can be divided into lower, middle, and upper parts based on vertical changes in its lithologic characters. The lower Daeri Member is composed of siliciclastic deposits formed in a semi‐arid floodplain environment, which is overlain by the middle Daeri Member consisting mainly of andesite lava flow. After the emplacement of the andesite, activities of intrabasinal normal faults created accommodation on hanging wall blocks together with the development of intrabasinal topographic relief. The upper Daeri Member occurs only in hanging wall blocks and is composed of rhyolitic volcaniclastic sediments formed during an explosive volcanic eruption. Following the eruption, owing to semi‐arid climatic conditions and the destruction of vegetation, the eruptive materials were easily remobilized and deposited by episodic sediment gravity flows, resulting in deposition of the resedimented volcaniclastic deposits with sheet‐like geometry. Away from the intrabasinal normal faults, the resedimented volcaniclastic deposits show a decrease in grain size together with changes in inferred depositional processes from debris flows to hyperconcentrated flows and supercritical sheetfloods. This suggests that the resedimented volcaniclastic deposits were stacked on alluvial fan environments induced by intrabasinal topographic relief associated with normal fault activities. In addition, episodic movement of the faults gave rise to periodic fluctuation of the accommodation and an increase in gradient of the alluvial fan surface, resulting in the development of coarsening‐upward trends in the resedimented volcaniclastic deposits. The development of the alluvial fan and the coarsening‐upward trends indicate that dynamic tectonic subsidence and concomitant changes in the intrabasinal physiographic relief influenced the depositional processes and sizes of the transported volcaniclastic sediments of the upper Daeri Member. Thus, it is necessary to carefully observe tectonic signatures in volcaniclastic successions, particularly the syneruptive lithofacies, in order to reconstruct the tectonic and volcanic histories of receiving basins.
Influence of clinical use on physical–structural surface properties and electrochemical potential of NiTi endodontic instruments
Authors: Pereira E. S. J. , Amaral C. C. F. , Gomes J. A. C. P. , Peters O. A. , Buono V. T. L. , Bahia M. G. A.
Published: March 2017

Aim

To investigate the surface morphology and electrochemical potential of superelastic (SE), M‐Wire (MW) and shape memory technology (SMT) NiTi instruments before and after single clinical use in vivo.

Methodology

A total of 60 ProTaper Universal F2 (PTU‐SE), ProTaper Next X2 (PTN‐MW), Typhoon (TYP), Hyflex (HF) and Vortex Blue (VB), the last three SMT, and size 25, .06 taper (n = 6 of each type) files were examined. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and electrochemical potential analysis were employed before and after clinical use. Statistical analysis was performed with one‐way analysis of variance and Bonferroni's post hoc test. Significance was determined at the 95% confidence level for both tests.

Results

SEM observations of new instruments indicated the presence of marks left by the machining process during manufacturing and EDS revealed the existence of an oxide coating on shape memory instruments. After clinical use, the five types were associated with propagation of transverse cracks 3 mm from the tip. The surface oxide layer of TYP, HF and VB instruments had microcracks in multiple directions, whilst TYP and HF had fragmentation in chip form of the oxide layer. EDS analysis demonstrated a significant reduction of the oxide layer in shape memory instruments, except for VB. Electrochemical potentials were higher for shape memory instruments than for M‐Wire and superelastic NiTi instruments, respectively (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

It appears that shape memory technology NiTi instruments have a dysfunctional oxide layer after clinical use. Additionally, they featured higher electrochemical potential relative to NiTi instruments manufactured from M‐Wire, and conventional superelastic NiTi alloy.
Job Mobility as a New Explanation for the Immigrant-Native Wage Gap: A Longitudinal Analysis of the German Labor Market1
Authors: Brenzel Hanna , Reichelt Malte
Published: March 2017

In industrialized countries, wages between migrants and natives usually differ. Previous studies that mostly focused on human capital theory and cross-sectional wage differences failed to fully explain the wage gap. We offer a new explanation and assume that differences in the employment trajectories of migrants and natives contribute to diverging wages after labor market entrance. Utilizing longitudinal data for Germany, we analyze the job mobility of migrants and natives and distinguish among voluntary, involuntary, and internal job changes. Indeed, we find evidence for differences in transition patterns and — using several fixed-effects regressions — are able to explain a substantial part of the gap in hourly wages. The results suggest that the higher number of involuntary changes among migrants increases the wage gap. In contrast, support for more voluntary and internal job changes among migrants should help to counteract diverging earnings trajectories.
The diagnosis and lived experience of polycystic ovary syndrome: A qualitative study
Authors: Tomlinson Julie , Pinkney Jonathan , Adams Linda , Stenhouse Elizabeth , Bendall Alison , Corrigan Oonagh , Letherby Gayle
Published: March 2017

Aims

To explore the impact of the diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome on health/ill health identity, how women experience this diagnosis and their health beliefs.

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common and heterogeneous condition, giving rise to a wide range of different health concerns. Previous research on polycystic ovary syndrome has been dominated by the medical perspective and less is known about the experiences and needs of women.

Design

A qualitative study of 32 premenopausal adult women with polycystic ovary syndrome (diagnosis confirmed by Rotterdam criteria), aged between 18 and 45 years, recruited from a primary and secondary care setting.

Methods

Thematic analysis of transcripts from 11 focus groups conducted between 2013‐2015.

Results/Findings

Women identified a range of concerns affecting personal and reproductive identity, health knowledge and beliefs: (1) delays and barriers to diagnosis; (2) general lack of empathy by the medical profession; (3) difficulty in accessing specialist referral; (4) lack of information from professionals; (5) inconsistent and sometimes unsatisfactory experiences with medications; (6) insufficient help and advice regarding in/fertility; (7) relative lack of awareness or concern about longer term risks such as diabetes; and (8) significant discrepancies between the beliefs of women with polycystic ovary syndrome and how they experienced the attitudes of healthcare professionals.

Conclusions

There appears to be a divergence between women's experience and attitudes of healthcare professionals. The diagnosis, support and lived experience of women with polycystic ovary syndrome could be enhanced by better professional recognition of these concerns, improved knowledge and communication about polycystic ovary syndrome and better access to support and specialist advice.
Towards a symptom cluster model in chronic kidney disease: A structural equation approach
Authors: Almutary Hayfa , Douglas Clint , Bonner Ann
Published: March 2017

Aims

The aim of this study was to test a symptom cluster model in chronic kidney disease patients based on the Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms, accounting for the relationships between influencing factors, symptom experience and consequences for quality of life.

Background

The evaluation of symptom clusters is a new field of scientific inquiry directed towards more focused symptom management. Yet, little is known about relationships between symptom clusters, predictors and the synergistic effect of multiple symptoms on outcomes.

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Methods

Data were collected from 436 patients with advanced stages of chronic kidney disease during July 2013–February 2014 using validated measures of symptom burden and quality of life. Analysis involved structural equation modelling.

Results

The final model demonstrated good fit with the data and provided strong evidence for the predicted relationships. Psychological distress, stage of chronic kidney disease and age explained most of the variance in symptom experience. Symptom clusters had a strong negative effect on quality of life, with fatigue, sexual symptoms and restless legs being the strongest predictors. Overall, the model explained more than half of the deterioration in quality of life. However, a reciprocal path between quality of life and symptom experience was not found.

Conclusions

Interventions targeting symptom clusters could greatly improve quality of life in patients with chronic kidney disease. The symptom cluster model presented has important clinical and heuristic implications, serving as a framework to encourage and guide new lines of intervention research to reduce symptom burden in chronic kidney disease.
Maintaining family life balance while facing a child's imminent death—A mixed methods study
Authors: Eskola Katri , Bergstraesser Eva , Zimmermann Karin , Cignacco Eva
Published: March 2017

Aim

To understand parents’ experiences and needs during a child's end‐of‐life care at home and to identify systemic factors that influence its provision.

Background

A child's end‐of‐life phase is an extremely difficult time for the whole family. Parents have specific needs, especially when they care for a dying child at home.

Design

Concurrent embedded mixed methods design.

Methods

This sub‐study of the nationwide survey, ‘Paediatric End‐of‐Life Care Needs in Switzerland’ (2012–2015) included 47 children who received EOL care at home from 2011–2012. We extracted quantitative data from patients’ medical charts and obtained information via parental questionnaire and then compared parents whose child died at home or in hospital by computing generalized estimation equations. We thematically analysed interviews with parents who provided EOL care at home.

Results

Parents created an intimate lifeworld and a sense of normality for the child at home. They constantly balanced the family's lifeworld with the requirements and challenges posed by the outside world. This work exhausted parents. Parental ‘readiness’ and social support drove EOL care for children at home. Parents needed practical help with housekeeping and had negative experiences when dealing with insurance. In only 34.8% of cases was a child's EOL home care supported by paediatric palliative care team.

Conclusion

Paediatric end‐of‐life care at home is only feasible if parents make extraordinary efforts. If family‐centred end‐of‐life home care is provided by a hospital‐based paediatric palliative home care team, which includes paid housekeeping help and psychological support, parents' needs could be better met.
Nursing judgement and decision‐making using the Sedation Withdrawal Score (SWS) in children
Authors: Craske Jennie , Carter Bernie , Jarman Ian H. , Tume Lyvonne N
Published: March 2017

Aims

The aim of the study was to evaluate registered children's nurses’ approaches to the assessment and management of withdrawal syndrome in children.

Background

Assessment of withdrawal syndrome is undertaken following critical illness when the child's condition may be unstable with competing differential diagnoses. Assessment tools aim to standardize and improve recognition of withdrawal syndrome. Making the right decisions in complex clinical situations requires a degree of mental effort and it is not known how nurses make decisions when undertaking withdrawal assessments.

Design

Cognitive interviews with clinical vignettes.

Methods

Interviews were undertaken with 12 nurses to explore the cognitive processes they used when assessing children using the Sedation Withdrawal Score (SWS) tool. Interviews took place in Autumn 2013.

Findings

Each stage of decision‐making—noticing, interpreting and responding—presented cognitive challenges for nurses. When defining withdrawal behaviours nurses tended to blur the boundaries between Sedation Withdrawal Score signs. Challenges in interpreting behaviours arose from not knowing if the patient's behaviour was a result of withdrawal or other co‐morbidities. Nurses gave a range of diagnoses when interpreting the vignettes, despite being provided with identical information. Treatment responses corresponded to definite withdrawal diagnoses, but varied when nurses were unsure of the diagnosis.

Conclusion

Cognitive interviews with vignettes provided insight into nurses’ judgement and decision‐making. The SWS does not standardize the assessment of withdrawal due to the complexity of the context where assessments take place and the difficulties of determining the cause of equivocal behaviours in children recovering from critical illness.
Application of a Life Cycle Model for European Union Policy‐Driven Waste Management Decision Making in Emerging Economies
Authors: Stanisavljevic Nemanja , Levis James W. , Barlaz Morton A.
Published: March 2017

Solid waste life cycle modeling has predominantly focused on developed countries, but there are significant opportunities to assist developing and transition economies to minimize the environmental impact of solid waste management (SWM). Serbia is representative of a transition country and most (92%) of its waste is landfilled. As a Candidate European Union (EU) country, Serbia is expected to implement SWM strategies that meet EU directives. The Solid Waste Life‐Cycle Optimization Framework (SWOLF) was used to evaluate scenarios that meet EU goals by 2030. Scenarios included combinations of landfills, anaerobic digestion, composting, material recovery facilities (MRFs), waste‐to‐energy (WTE) combustion, and the use of refuse‐derived fuel in cement kilns. Each scenario was evaluated with and without separate collection of recyclables. Modeled impacts included cost, climate change, cumulative fossil energy demand, acidification, eutrophication, photochemical oxidation, total eco‐toxicity, and total human toxicity. Trade‐offs among the scenarios were evaluated because no scenario performed best in every category. In general, SWM strategies that incorporated processes that recover energy and recyclable materials performed well across categories, whereas scenarios that did not include energy recovery performed poorly. Emissions offsets attributable to energy recovery and reduced energy requirements associated with remanufacturing of recovered recyclables had the strongest influence on the results. The scenarios rankings were robust under parametric sensitivity analysis, except when the marginal electricity fuel source changed from coal to natural gas. Model results showed that the use of existing infrastructure, energy recovery, and efficient recovery of recyclables from mixed waste can reduce environmental emissions at relatively low cost.
SEM‐microphotogrammetry, a new take on an old method for generating high‐resolution 3D models from SEM images
Authors: BALL A.D. , JOB P.A. , WALKER A.E.L.
Published: March 2017

The method we present here uses a scanning electron microscope programmed via macros to automatically capture dozens of images at suitable angles to generate accurate, detailed three‐dimensional (3D) surface models with micron‐scale resolution. We demonstrate that it is possible to use these Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images in conjunction with commercially available software originally developed for photogrammetry reconstructions from Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) cameras and to reconstruct 3D models of the specimen. These 3D models can then be exported as polygon meshes and eventually 3D printed.

This technique offers the potential to obtain data suitable to reconstruct very tiny features (e.g. diatoms, butterfly scales and mineral fabrics) at nanometre resolution. Ultimately, we foresee this as being a useful tool for better understanding spatial relationships at very high resolution. However, our motivation is also to use it to produce 3D models to be used in public outreach events and exhibitions, especially for the blind or partially sighted.
Student nurses’ competence in sexual health care: A literature review
Authors: Blakey Emma Pascale , Aveyard Helen
Published: March 2017

Aims and objectives

To explore the way in which sexual health care is perceived and experienced by students in clinical practice.

Background

Student nurses understand the need to learn about sexual health but report a variety of learning needs and experience challenges acquiring skills to deliver such care in part due to varied clinical experience. Furthermore, there is a paucity of data exploring clinical competence of sexual health care among student nurses.

Design and methods

A literature review of the published literature was conducted following a search of online databases. Articles were selected for analysis according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Eight articles were critically appraised and thematically analysed.

Results

The following themes were identified: student nurses report having a positive attitude towards sexual health care; however, many felt uncomfortable about addressing sexual health and are reluctant to initiate a conversation; many student nurses lack knowledge about sexual health; they also lack role models at university and on clinical placement. Student nurse caregiving in relation to sexual health was also noted.

Conclusions

It is encouraging that student nurses have some knowledge, but their knowledge assessed is narrow. Their attitude is generally positive although many feel uncomfortable discussing issues of sexual health and sexuality. Very few student nurses report delivering sexual health care. There is a lack of positive role models both on clinical placement and at university.

Relevance to clinical practice

The reasons behind a lack of sexual health care delivery by student nurses should be understood. Student nurses should be supported to assess patient need and provide holistic care. Positive role models should be established in clinical and educational environments along with a focus on wider sexual health knowledge and skills.