bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neglect and aphasia in the acute phase as predictors of functional outcome 7 years after ischemic stroke
Authors: Gerafi J. , Samuelsson H. , Viken J. I. , Blomgren C. , Claesson L. , Kallio S. , Jern C. , Blomstrand C. , Jood K.
Published: August 2017

Background and purpose

Visuospatial inattention (VSI) and language impairment (LI) are often present early after stroke and associations with an unfavorable short‐term functional outcome have been reported. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether a screening of VSI and LI as indicators of cortical symptoms early after stroke could predict long‐term functional outcomes.

Methods

A consecutive cohort of 375 patients with ischemic stroke was assessed for the occurrence of VSI at a median of 7 days after admission (interquartile range, 1–5 days) using the Star Cancellation Test and for LI (within the first 7 days) with the language item in the Scandinavian Stroke Scale. Seven years later, functional outcomes were assessed by the modified Rankin scale and Frenchay Activities Index in 235 survivors without recurrent stroke. Relationships between baseline predictors and functional outcome at 7 years were analyzed with bivariate correlations and multiple categorical regressions with optimal scaling.

Results

The regression model significantly explained variance in the modified Rankin scale (R2 = 0.435, P < 0.001) and identified VSI (P = 0.001) and neurological deficits (P < 0.001; Scandinavian Stroke Scale score without the language item) as the significant independent predictors. The model for Frenchay Activities Index was also significant (R2 = 0.269, P < 0.001) with VSI (P = 0.035) and neurological deficits (P < 0.001) as significant independent predictors.

Conclusions

Visuospatial inattention at acute stroke has an independent impact on long‐term functional outcomes. Early recognition may enable targeted rehabilitative interventions.
Structural insight into the recognition of acetylated histone H3K56ac mediated by the bromodomain of CREB‐binding protein
Authors: Xu Li , Cheng Aimin , Huang Min , Zhang Jiahai , Jiang Yiyang , Wang Chongyuan , Li Fudong , Bao Hongyu , Gao Jia , Wang Na , Liu Jiuyang , Wu Jihui , Wong Catherine C.L. , Ruan Ke
Published: August 2017

The acetylation of lysine 56 of histone H3 (H3K56ac) enhances the binding affinity of histone chaperones to H3–H4 dimers. CREB‐binding protein (CBP) possesses a bromodomain that recognizes H3K56 acetylation. CBP also possesses a histone acetyltransferase (HAT) domain, which has been shown to promote H3K56 acetylation of free histones to facilitate delivery of replication‐dependent chaperones to acetylated histones for chromatin assembly. However, the mechanism by which the CBP bromodomain recognizes H3K56ac and the context in which such recognition occurs remain elusive. Here, we solved the crystal structure of the CBP bromodomain in complex with an H3K56ac peptide. Our data demonstrate that the CBP bromodomain recognizes H3K56ac with high affinity. Structural and affinity analyses reveal that the CBP bromodomain prefers an aromatic residue at the −2 position and an arginine at the −4 position from the acetyl‐lysine, and that the CBP bromodomain selectively recognizes an extended conformation of the H3 αN helix that contains H3K56ac. We also demonstrate that the CBP bromodomain binds to H3K56ac in a recombinant H3–H4 dimer but not in a mono‐nucleosome. Our results suggest that the CBP bromodomain selectively recognizes an extended conformation of the K56‐acetylated H3 αN region within an H3–H4 dimer, which is expected to facilitate the HAT activity of CBP for subsequent H3K56 acetylation of free histones.

Databases

Coordinates of the CBP bromodomain in complex with H3K56ac as described in this article have been deposited in the PDB with accession number 5GH9.
Aligning digital CD8+ scoring and targeted next‐generation sequencing with programmed death ligand 1 expression: a pragmatic approach in early‐stage squamous cell lung carcinoma
Authors: Conde Esther , Caminoa Alejandra , Dominguez Carolina , Calles Antonio , Walter Stefan , Angulo Barbara , Sánchez Elena , Alonso Marta , Jimenez Luis , Madrigal Luis , Hernando Florentino , Sanz‐Ortega Julian , Jimenez Beatriz , Garrido Pilar , Paz‐Ares Luis , de Castro Javier , Hernandez Susana , Lopez‐Rios Fernando
Published: August 2017

Aims

To study programmed death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression, tumour‐infiltrating T lymphocytes (TILs) and the molecular context in patients with early‐stage squamous cell lung carcinomas (SCCs).

Methods and results

The study included samples from 40 patients (discovery cohort) and 29 patients (validation cohort) diagnosed with early‐stage SCC. PD‐L1 immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed with three commercially available clones (E1L3N, SP263 and SP142). CD8+ TILs were scored with a digital algorithm. All tumours were analysed with targeted next‐generation sequencing (NGS). Additionally, TP53 mutations were investigated with direct sequencing. In both cohorts, we observed a significant association between CD8+ TILs density and high PD‐L1 IHC expression in tumour cells (TCs). Furthermore, high SP142 PD‐L1 expression in immune cells (ICs) was also associated significantly with CD8+ TILs density. Therefore, CD8+ TILs density discriminated between patients with high versus low PD‐L1 IHC expression with excellent sensitivity and specificity. Interestingly, the highest percentages of PD‐L1‐positive TCs with the three antibodies were found in samples with cyclin‐dependent kinase 6 (CDK6) amplification, with high amplification of proto‐oncogene C‐Myc (CMYC) or with cyclin D1–PI3 kinase subunit alpha (CCND1–PIK3CA) co‐amplification. High SP142 PD‐L1 IHC expression in ICs showed a non‐significant correlation with TP53 mutations. Conversely, most cases with fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1) amplification were negative for all PD‐L1 clones.

Conclusions

Our preliminary results support the use of digital CD8+ TILs scoring and targeted NGS alongside PD‐L1 expression. The approach presented herein could help define patients with SCCs candidates to immune checkpoints inhibitors.
How to facilitate transition to adulthood? Innovative solutions from parents of young adults with profound intellectual disability
Authors: Gauthier‐Boudreault Camille , Couture Mélanie , Gallagher Frances
Published: August 2017

Background

At age 21, access to specialised services for youth with profound intellectual disability is reduced. Few studies have focused on parents' views concerning potential solutions to ease the transition to adulthood, and most existing solutions target young adults with less severe intellectual disability. The aim of this study is to propose realistic solutions to meet the needs of young adults with profound intellectual disability and their families during and after the transition to adulthood.

Method

Using a descriptive qualitative design, two individual semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 14 parents.

Results

Ideas for innovative solutions included responses to parents' informational, material, intellectual and emotional needs during and after transition period. The majority of these solutions involve knowledge sharing, improved inter‐institutional collaboration and social participation of young adults, and offering parents emotional support.

Conclusion

Some solutions could be implemented within existing transition planning programs, based on their strengths and limitations.
Crosstalk between growth and somatic maintenance in young animals
Authors: Lodjak Jaanis , Mägi Marko
Published: August 2017

Growing animals face allocation problems whenever receiving suboptimal amounts of resources in very stochastic natural environments, possibly through a trade‐off between growth and somatic maintenance. However, the extent to which such a trade‐off exists has remained an open question. We used an insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1) injection treatment in free‐living pied flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca nestlings to see how IGF‐1 levels mediate the development of an antioxidant phenotype via glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Our study showed that IGF‐1 levels underlie variation in GPx activity and provides important information for understanding the mechanisms behind the growth variation of passerines.
Current status of home blood pressure monitoring in Asia: Statement from the HOPE Asia Network
Authors: Chia Yook‐Chin , Buranakitjaroen Peera , Chen Chen‐Huan , Divinagracia Romeo , Hoshide Satoshi , Park Sungha , Shin Jinho , Siddique Saulat , Sison Jorge , Soenarta Arieska Ann , Sogunuru Guru Prasad , Tay Jam Chin , Turana Yuda , Wang Ji‐Guang , Wong Lawrence , Zhang Yuqing , Kario Kazuomi ,   On behalf of the HOPE Asia Network
Published: August 2017

Hypertension represents a major burden in Asia, with a high prevalence rate but poor level of awareness and control reported in many countries in the region. Home blood pressure monitoring has been validated as an accurate and reliable measure of blood pressure that can help guide hypertension treatment as well as identify masked and white‐coat hypertension. Despite its benefits, there has been limited research into home blood pressure monitoring in Asia. The authors reviewed the current evidence on home blood pressure monitoring in Asia, including but not limited to published literature, data presented at congresses, and national hypertension management guidelines to determine the current utilization of home blood pressure monitoring in clinical practice in the region. Public policies to enable greater access to home blood pressure monitoring and its use in clinical care would add considerably to improving hypertension outcomes in Asia.
WWC2 is an independent prognostic factor and prevents invasion via Hippo signalling in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Yijun , Yan Shumei , Chen Jiewei , Gan Caixia , Chen Dong , Li Yan , Wen Jiahuai , Kremerskothen Joachim , Chen Shilu , Zhang Jiangbo , Cao Yun
Published: August 2017

WWC family proteins negatively regulate HEK293 cell proliferation and organ growth by suppressing the transcriptional activity of Yes‐associated protein (YAP), a major effector of the Hippo pathway. The function of the scaffolding protein WWC1 (also called KIBRA) has been intensively studied in cells and animal models. However, the expression and clinicopathologic significance of WWC2 in cancer are poorly characterized. This study aimed to clarify the biological function and mechanism of action of WWC2 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Retrospective analysis revealed WWC2 was significantly down‐regulated in 95 clinical HCC tissues compared to the paired adjacent non‐cancerous tissues. Moreover, loss of WWC2 expression was significantly associated with advanced clinicopathological features, including venous infiltration, larger tumour size and advanced TNM stage. Positive WWC2 expression was associated with significantly better 5‐year overall survival, and WWC2 was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival in HCC. Moreover, we confirmed WWC2 inhibits HCC cell invasive ability in vitro. Elevated YAP expression was also observed in the same cohort of HCC tissues. Pearson's correlation coefficient analysis indicated WWC2 expression correlated inversely with nuclear YAP protein expression in HCC. Mechanistically, we confirmed overexpression of WWC2 suppresses the invasive and metastatic potential of HCC cells by activating large tumour suppressor 1 and 2 kinases (LATS1/2), which in turn phosphorylates the transcriptional co‐activator YAP. Overall, this study indicates WWC2 functions as a tumour suppressor by negatively regulating the Hippo signalling pathway and may serve as a prognostic marker in HCC.
The impact of atopic dermatitis on work life – a systematic review
Authors: Nørreslet L.B. , Ebbehøj N.E. , Ellekilde Bonde J.P. , Thomsen S.F. , Agner T.
Published: August 2017

Atopic dermatitis (AD) has considerable multidimensional personal and societal costs. However, the extend to which the patient's work life is affected due to AD is more sparsely described in the literature. The objective of this review was to examine the impact on work life for patients with AD, with a specific focus on choice of education and occupation, sick leave, social compensations and change of job due to AD. A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, EMBASE and Web og Science up to 7 February 2017 for articles on the impact on work life for patients with AD. Results were summarized taking several measures of study quality into account. The search identified twenty‐three articles, whereof five studies assessed the influence of AD on educational or job choice, without any consistent conslusion, while eight of nine studies with respect to sick leave and two on disability pensions found AD to have a negative impact. Studies of change or loss of job and AD showed more diverse results, as not all studies documented a negative effect of AD on work life. Atopic dermatitis imposes a burden extending beyond personal, emotional and financial costs. This review strongly implies that AD affects sick leave, and though not fully clarified, possible also job choice, change or loss of job and even disability pensions for the more severe cases.
Connect‐Home: Transitional Care of Skilled Nursing Facility Patients and their Caregivers
Authors: Toles Mark , Colón‐Emeric Cathleen , Naylor Mary D. , Asafu‐Adjei Josephine , Hanson Laura C.
Published: August 2017

Background

Older adults that transfer from skilled nursing facilities (SNF) to home have significant risk for poor outcomes. Transitional care of SNF patients (i.e., time‐limited services to ensure coordination and continuity of care) is poorly understood.

Objective

To determine the feasibility and relevance of the Connect‐Home transitional care intervention, and to compare preparedness for discharge between comparison and intervention dyads.

Design

A non‐randomized, historically controlled design‐enrolling dyads of SNF patients and their family caregivers.

Setting

Three SNFs in the Southeastern United States.

Participants

Intervention dyads received Connect‐Home; comparison dyads received usual discharge planning. Of 173 recruited dyads, 145 transferred to home, and 133 completed surveys within 3 days of discharge.

Intervention

The Connect‐Home intervention consisted of tools and training for existing SNF staff to deliver transitional care of patient and caregiver dyads.

Measurements

Feasibility was assessed with a chart review. Relevance was assessed with a survey of staff experiences using the intervention. Preparedness for discharge, the primary outcome, was assessed with Care‐Transitions Measure‐15 (CTM‐15).

Results

The intervention was feasible and relevant to SNF staff (i.e., 96.9% of staff recommended intervention use in the future). Intervention dyads, compared to comparison dyads, were more prepared for discharge (CTM‐15 score 74.7 vs 65.3, mean ratio 1.16, 95% CI: 1.08, 1.24).

Conclusion

Connect‐Home is a promising transitional care intervention for older patients discharged from SNF care. The next step will be to test the intervention using a cluster randomized trial, with patient outcomes including re‐hospitalization.
Petrological evidence for stepwise accretion of metamorphic soles during subduction infancy (Semail ophiolite, Oman and UAE)
Authors: Soret Mathieu , Agard Philippe , Dubacq Benoît , Plunder Alexis , Yamato Philippe
Published: August 2017

Metamorphic soles are tectonic slices welded beneath most large‐scale ophiolites. These slivers of oceanic crust metamorphosed up to granulite facies conditions are interpreted as forming during the first million years of intraoceanic subduction following heat transfer from the incipient mantle wedge towards the top of the subducting plate. This study reappraises the formation of metamorphic soles through detailed field and petrological work on three key sections from the Semail ophiolite (Oman and United Arab Emirates). Based on thermobarometry and thermodynamic modelling, it is shown that metamorphic soles do not record a continuous temperature gradient, as expected from simple heating by the upper plate or by shear heating as proposed in previous studies. The upper, high‐T metamorphic sole is subdivided in at least two units, testifying to the stepwise formation, detachment and accretion of successive slices from the down‐going slab to the mylonitic base of the ophiolite. Estimated peak pressure–temperature conditions through the metamorphic sole, from top to bottom, are 850°C and 1 GPa, 725°C and 0.8 GPa and 530°C and 0.5 GPa. These estimates appear constant within each unit but differing between units by 100–200°C and ~0.2 GPa. Despite being separated by hundreds of kilometres below the Semail ophiolite and having contrasting locations with respect to the ridge axis position, metamorphic soles show no evidence for significant petrological variations along strike. These constraints allow us to refine the tectonic–petrological model for the genesis of metamorphic soles, formed via the stepwise stacking of several homogeneous slivers of oceanic crust and its sedimentary cover. Metamorphic soles result not so much from downward heat transfer (ironing effect) as from progressive metamorphism during strain localization and cooling of the plate interface. The successive thrusts originate from rheological contrasts between the sole, initially the top of the subducting slab, and the peridotite above as the plate interface progressively cools. These findings have implications for the thickness, the scale and the coupling state at the plate interface during the early history of subduction/obduction systems.
The prevalence and specific characteristics of hospitalised pressure ulcer patients: A multicentre cross‐sectional study
Authors: Zhou Qing , Yu Ting , Liu Yuan , Shi Ruifen , Tian Suping , Yang Chaoxia , Gan Huaxiu , Zhu Yanying , Liang Xia , Wang Ling , Wu Zhenhua , Huang Jinping , Hu Ailing
Published: August 2017

Objective

To ascertain the pressure ulcer prevalence in secondary and tertiary general hospitals in different areas of Guangdong Province in China and explore the possible risk factors that are related to pressure ulcers.

Background

Few multicentre studies have been conducted on pressure ulcer prevalence in Chinese hospitals.

Design

A cross‐sectional study design was used.

Methods

Data from a total of 25,264 patients were included in the analysis at 25 hospitals in China. The investigators were divided into two groups. The investigators in group 1 examined the patients' skin. When a pressure ulcer was found, a pressure ulcer assessment form was completed. The investigators in group 2 provided guidance to the nurses, who assessed all patients and completed another questionnaire. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to analyse the relationship between the possible risk factors and pressure ulcer.

Results

The overall prevalence rate of pressure ulcers in the 25 hospitals ranged from 0%–3.49%, with a mean of 1.26%. The most common stage of the pressure ulcers was stageII(41.4%); most common anatomical locations were sacrum (39.5%) and the feet (16.4%). Braden score (p < .001), expected length of stay (p < .001), incontinence (p < .001), care group (p = .011), hospital location (p < .001), type of hospitals (p = .004), ages of patients (p < .001) were associations of pressure ulcers from the multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Conclusions

The overall prevalence rate of pressure ulcers in Chinese hospitals was lower than that reported in previous investigations. Specific characteristics of pressure ulcer patients were as follows: low Braden score, longer expected length of stay, double incontinence, anICUand a medical ward, hospital location in the Pearl River Delta, a university hospital and an older patient.

Relevance to clinical practice

The survey could make managers know their prevalence level of pressure ulcers and provide priorities for clinical nurses.
Final report of the Committee on Gynecologic Oncology, the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology, on a fact‐finding questionnaire on the status of treatment of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome in Japan
Authors: Satoh Toyomi , Takamatsu Kiyoshi , Takeshima Nobuhiro , Kobayashi Hiroshi , Aoki Daisuke , Suzuki Nao
Published: August 2017

Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome (HBOC) is a hereditary tumor that can be definitively diagnosed by detection of germline mutation of the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene. The HBOC Public Awareness and Management Sub‐committee of the Tumor Committee, Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology carried out a fact‐finding survey on the status of treatment of HBOC in Japan. The directors of medical specialty teaching facilities were notified of the questionnaire by post, with the request for one respondent per facility. The response period was from 8 July 2014 to 31 March 2015. Of the 678 facilities that were asked to compete the questionnaire, 341 (50.3%) responded. The responses are shown in the respective tables. For questions with free responses, similar answers have been grouped together, and the written answers have been freely translated. Based on these results, the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology considers that the 14 conditions, including consultations by specialist staff, must be met before risk‐reducing salpingo‐oophorectomy is carried out.
Relationship between user satisfaction with the levonorgestrel‐releasing intrauterine system and bleeding patterns
Authors: Carvalho Nelsilene M. , Chou Victoria , Modesto Waleska , Margatho Deborah , Garcia Elaine A.L. , Bahamondes Luis
Published: August 2017

Aim

Satisfaction with a contraceptive method constitutes an important factor in its acceptance and long‐term use. The objective of this study was to assess the relationship between user satisfaction with the 20‐μg/day levonorgestrel‐releasing intrauterine system (LNG‐IUS) and the bleeding patterns reported at two different time‐points during follow‐up.

Methods

A total of 251 LNG‐IUS users aged 18–45 years were invited to answer a questionnaire on their return to the clinic for a routine follow‐up visit and again 1 year later. Data were collected face‐to‐face.

Results

Twenty women discontinued prematurely; therefore, the analysis was performed on 231 women. Most users were either highly satisfied (66.6% and 66.2% at the first and second interviews, respectively) or satisfied (26.4% and 26.4% at the first and second interviews, respectively) with the LNG‐IUS. Satisfaction was related to amenorrhea (P < 0.001) and duration of use (P < 0.001). Prolonged bleeding and spotting were the main causes of dissatisfaction with the device.

Conclusion

Most LNG‐IUS users in this sample were satisfied with the device. The only two factors associated with satisfaction were amenorrhea and duration of use, while prolonged bleeding and spotting were the main causes of dissatisfaction. These findings could be useful for health‐care professionals and policy‐makers when developing information material for women. The study provides insight into the profile of satisfied LNG‐IUS users; however, this information is not suitable for counseling women who are considering using an LNG‐IUS.
Nomenclature of primary amenorrhea: A proposal document of the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology committee for the redefinition of primary amenorrhea
Authors: Shozu Makio , Ishikawa Hiroshi , Horikawa Reiko , Sakakibara Hideya , Izumi Shun‐ichiro , Ohba Takashi , Hirota Yasushi , Ogata Tsutomu , Osuga Yutaka , Kugu Koji
Published: August 2017

Aim

The aim of this study was to provide medical terms to describe the condition of a girl who should be evaluated for primary amenorrhea in order to facilitate intervention at an appropriate time.

Methods

We performed a literature and clinical guidelines search for recent practices with regard to menarche and discussed relevant cases that had been experienced by committee members. Additionally, we theoretically reviewed medical terms defined in the Glossary Book of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Japan (Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 3rd edition).

Results

The committee for the redefinition of primary amenorrhea proposed the introduction of two terms and the deletion of one term that had been defined by the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology, instead of changing the age definition of primary amenorrhea. ‘Delayed menarche’ was introduced to describe a condition in which a girl has never experienced cyclic menstruation (menarche) by 15–17 years of age. ‘Late menarche’ was also introduced to describe a condition in which a girl has experienced menarche at 15 years of age or older. ‘Delayed menstruation,’ which was defined as a condition in which a girl experiences menarche at 15–18 years of age, was deleted.

Conclusion

The new terms ‘delayed menarche’ and ‘late menarche’ were introduced, and the term ‘delayed menstruation’ was deleted. The new system might help in the early detection and appropriate treatment of primary amenorrhea.
Amniotic fluid embolism mortality rate
Authors: Benson Michael D.
Published: August 2017

Aim

The objective of this study was to determine the mortality rate of amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) using population‐based studies and case series.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using the two key words: ‘amniotic fluid embolism (AFE)’ AND ‘mortality rate’. Thirteen population‐based studies were evaluated, as well as 36 case series including at least two patients.

Results

The mortality rate from population‐based studies varied from 11% to 44%. When nine population‐based studies with over 17 000 000 live births were aggregated, the maternal mortality rate was 20.4%. In contrast, the mortality rate of AFE in case series varies from 0% to 100% with numerous rates in between.

Conclusion

The AFE mortality rate in population‐based studies varied from 11% to 44% with the best available evidence supporting an overall mortality rate of 20.4%. Data from case series should no longer be used as a basis for describing the lethality of AFE.
Sperm donation perinatal outcomes in an Australian population cohort
Authors: Adams Damian , Fernandez Renae , Moore Vivienne , Willson Kristyn , Rumbold Alice , de Lacey Sheryl , Scheil Wendy , Davies Michael
Published: August 2017

Aim

To compare perinatal outcomes for neonates conceived with donated sperm with those for neonates conceived spontaneously in an Australian population cohort.

Methods

Perinatal outcomes for all births in South Australia for the period January 1986–December 2002 were linked with assisted reproductive treatment records to determine those conceived from donated sperm. Birth outcome measures were analyzed using Student's t‐test and logistic regression using generalized estimating equations to determine statistical significance.

Results

Donor sperm neonates were not significantly different from their spontaneously conceived counterparts in terms of mean birthweight, low birthweight, preterm delivery, small for gestational age, or large for gestational age. They were, however, significantly more likely to be born at lower mean gestational age (P = 0.012), and to have preterm delivery with low birthweight (P = 0.008), when controlling for maternal age, parity, ethnicity, socioeconomic quartile and baby's sex. These associations were not apparent when singletons and twins were considered separately.

Conclusion

There was some evidence of compromised perinatal outcomes for donor sperm neonates compared with their spontaneously conceived counterparts, which appeared to be partly attributable to multiplicity.
The Effects of Ethnic Minority Adolescents' Ethnic Self‐Identification on Friendship Selection
Authors: Jugert Philipp , Leszczensky Lars , Pink Sebastian
Published: August 2017

This study investigated the effects of ethnic minority adolescents' ethnic self‐identification (host country, dual, or heritage country) on friendship choices among ethnic majority and minority peers. Hypotheses were derived from similarity–attraction and social identity theory and tested using longitudinal social network data from 1,004 middle school students (five schools) in Germany. Results showed that ethnic minority adolescents' ethnic self‐identification affected friendship selection beyond ethnic homophily. While host country and dual identification was beneficial with respect to friendships with both ethnic majority and minority peers, heritage country identification was detrimental to relations with both of them.
Do Emotions after Receiving Test Results Predict Review Activities? An Intra‐Individual Analysis
Authors: Suzuki Masayuki , Akasaka Kosuke
Published: August 2017

In the present study, we examined intra‐individual relations among emotions when receiving test results and subsequent test review activities, and the direct and moderating effects of perceptions of test value. The participants, 90 first‐year students at a private girls' secondary school, self‐reported their present emotional state immediately after receiving their test results and their test review activities 1 week after the tests were returned. The same survey was conducted on four occasions. Results of multilevel analyses indicated that emotions experienced when receiving test results did not predict subsequent learning behavior. The results also showed that relations among emotions and review activities differed across students. Although we investigated whether such individual differences in relations might be attributed to perceptions of test value, no moderating effect could be observed. Furthermore, improvement‐oriented test mindsets were found to be positive predictors of review activities by investigating the direct effect of perceptions of test value. These findings suggest that modifying students' perceptions of test value may promote appropriate learning behavior.
Hepatitis C virus‐related complications are increasing in women veterans: A national cohort study
Authors: Kramer J. R. , El‐Serag H. B. , Taylor T. J. , White D. L. , Asch S. M. , Frayne S. M. , Cao Y. , Smith D. L. , Kanwal F.
Published: August 2017

There are gender‐specific variations in the epidemiology and clinical course of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. However, few long‐term longitudinal studies have examined trends in the incidence and prevalence of serious liver complications among women compared with men with HCV infection.

We used the Veterans Administration Corporate Data Warehouse to identify all veterans with positive HCV viraemia from January 2000 to December 2013. We calculated gender‐specific annual incidence and prevalence rates of cirrhosis, decompensated cirrhosis and hepatocellular cancer (HCC) adjusting for age, diabetes, HIV and alcohol use. We also calculated the average annual per cent change (AAPC) for each outcome by gender using piecewise linear regression in the Joinpoint software.

We identified 264 409 HCV‐infected veterans during 2000‐2013, of whom 7162 (2.7%) were women. There were statistically significant increases over time in the incidence rates of cirrhosis, decompensated cirrhosis and HCC for both men and women. The annual‐adjusted incidence rates of cirrhosis, decompensated cirrhosis and HCC were higher in men than women for all study years. However, these complications increased at a similar rate in both groups. Specifically, the AAPC for cirrhosis was 13.1 and 15.2, while it was 15.6 and 16.9 for decompensated cirrhosis and 21.0 and 25.3 for HCC in men and women, respectively (all test of parallelism not significant). The results were similar in the prevalence analyses, although AAPCs were slightly smaller for each outcome.

In conclusion, we found an ongoing upward trend in the incidence and prevalence of HCV complications in this cohort of HCV‐infected women. This increase in cirrhosis complications in women with active HCV infection is similar to those in men. With cure from HCV now becoming a reality, most of the projected burden of HCV is potentially preventable. However, benefits of HCV treatment will need to extend to all patients in order to stem the rising tide of HCV complications.
Late Pleistocene origin of the entire circumarctic range of the arctic‐alpine plant Kalmia procumbens
Authors: Ikeda Hajime , Eidesen Pernille Bronken , Yakubov Valentin , Barkalov Vyacheslav , Brochmann Christian , Setoguchi Hiroaki
Published: August 2017

The circumarctic ranges of arctic‐alpine plants are thought to have been established in the late Pliocene/early Pleistocene, when the modern arctic tundra was formed in response to climate cooling. Previous findings of range‐wide genetic structure in arctic‐alpine plants have been thought to support this hypothesis, but few studies have explicitly addressed the temporal framework of the genetic structure. Here, we estimated the demographic history of the genetic structure in the circumarctic Kalmia procumbens using sequences of multiple nuclear loci and examined whether its genetic structure reflects prolonged isolation throughout the Pleistocene. Both Bayesian clustering and phylogenetic analyses revealed genetic distinction between alpine and arctic regions, whereas detailed groupings were somewhat discordant between the analyses. By assuming a population grouping based on the phylogenetic analyses, which likely reflects a deeper intraspecific divergence, we conducted model‐based analyses and demonstrated that the intraspecific genetic divergence in K. procumbens likely originated during the last glacial period. Thus, there is no need to postulate range separation throughout the Pleistocene to explain the current genetic structure in this species. This study demonstrates that range‐wide genetic structure in arctic‐alpine plants does not necessarily result from the late Pliocene/early Pleistocene origin of their circumarctic ranges and emphasizes the importance of a temporal framework of the current genetic structure for understanding the biogeographic history of the arctic flora.
Molecular evidence for trans‐stadial transmission ofAnaplasma platysbyRhipicephalus sanguineus sensu latounder field conditions
Authors: AKTAS M. , OZUBEK S.
Published: August 2017

This study investigated the transmission ofAnaplasma platysbyRhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (Ixodida: Ixodidae). Engorged nymphs (n= 404) removed fromA. platys‐infected dogs were incubated at 28 °C until moulting. Unfed adults were obtained and divided into 48 pools. Unfed ticks collected from the grounds of the dog shelter, comprising 1800 larvae (n= 18 pools), 3100 nymphs (n= 62 pools) and 85 adults (n= 10 pools, including three male and seven female pools) were sorted into 90 pools. All pools were screened by polymerase chain reaction for the 16S rRNAgene ofA. platys. Of 48 pools of unfed adults obtained from engorged nymphs, 12 were positive forA. platys; the infection rate maximum likelihood estimate (MLE) was 3.36 [95% confidence interval (CI)1.84–5.68].Anaplasma platyswas detected in five of 23 male pools (MLE2.82, 95%CI1.06–6.20) and seven of 25 female pools (MLE3.83, 95%CI1.72–7.57). Of seven pools of unfed adult females collected from the shelter grounds, one was positive forA. platys(MLE1.74, 95%CI0.11–8.22). Among 62 unfed nymph pools, eight were infected withA. platys(MLE0.27, 95%CI0.13–0.52). NoA. platysDNAwas detected in the larva pools. The present results reveal molecular evidence for the trans‐stadial transmission ofA. platysbyR. sanguineus s.l.
Cultural adaptation and validation of the Caring Behaviors Assessment tool in Chile
Authors: Ayala Ricardo A. , Calvo María Julia
Published: August 2017

Abstract

This study reports the process of cultural adaptation of the Caring Behaviors Assessment tool for the Spanish language, and determine its validity and reliability. We used a mixed‐methods approach with a sample of adult participants after translation and adjustment, correlations and multiple regressions were used to explain differences in perception. Internal consistency and reliability were determined by using Cronbach's alpha. While slight modifications to syntax, language, and the interval scale were necessary to enable better comprehension, all items had high average scores as did the seven subscales. Additionally, similarities with previous literature suggest cultural suitability of the instrument across countries. This version of the tool was judged to be valid and reliable, and will facilitate care measurability and theoretical sensitivity in Spanish‐speaking countries.
Growth responses to elevated temperatures and the importance of ontogenetic niche shifts in Bromeliaceae
Authors: Müller Lilian‐Lee B. , Albach Dirk C. , Zotz Gerhard
Published: August 2017

Epiphytic bromeliads represent a major component of Neotropical forests, but the potential effect of climate change on these plants is unclear. We investigated whether and how bromeliads are affected by the predicted 3°C temperature rise by the end of the century.

We conducted growth experiments with 17 epiphytic bromeliad species at different temperatures to determine their fundamental thermal niches. By comparing those with niches for germination, we tested whether ontogenetic niche shift or niche contraction occurs in Bromeliaceae. Applying a classical growth analysis, we assessed the relative importance of the underlying growth components on interspecific variations in growth.

Members of two bromeliad subfamilies differed in their response to elevated temperatures: Tillandsioideae may be negatively affected, whereas Bromelioideae moved closer to their thermal optimum. Across different ontogenetic stages, thermal niche characteristics revealed both niche shift and niche contraction. Interspecific variation in growth was driven almost exclusively by net assimilation rate at all temperatures.

We conclude that the vulnerability of tropical plants to a future increase in temperature may be more variable than suggested by previous studies. We emphasize the importance of assessing niche breadth over multiple life stages and the need for better microclimatic data to link laboratory data with field conditions.
Altered regulation of TERMINAL FLOWER 1 causes the unique vernalisation response in an arctic woodland strawberry accession
Authors: Koskela Elli A. , Kurokura Takeshi , Toivainen Tuomas , Sønsteby Anita , Heide Ola M. , Sargent Daniel J. , Isobe Sachiko , Jaakola Laura , Hilmarsson Hrannar , Elomaa Paula , Hytönen Timo
Published: August 2017

Vernalisation requirement is an agriculturally important trait that postpones the development of cold‐sensitive floral organs until the spring. The family Rosaceae includes many agriculturally important fruit and berry crops that suffer from crop losses caused by frost injury to overwintering flower buds. Recently, a vernalisation‐requiring accession of the Rosaceae model woodland strawberry (Fragaria vesca) has been identified in northern Norway. Understanding the molecular basis of the vernalisation requirement in this accession would advance the development of strawberry cultivars better adapted to temperate climate.

We use gene silencing, gene expression analysis, genetic mapping and population genomics to study the genetic basis of the vernalisation requirement in woodland strawberry.

Our results indicate that the woodland strawberry vernalisation requirement is endemic to northern Norwegian population, and mapping data suggest the orthologue of TERMINAL FLOWER1 (FvTFL1) as the causal floral repressor. We demonstrate that exceptionally low temperatures are needed to downregulate FvTFL1 and to make these plants competent to induce flowering at low postvernalisation temperatures in the spring.

We show that altered regulation of FvTFL1 in the northern Norwegian woodland strawberry accession postpones flower induction until the spring, allowing plants to avoid winter injuries of flower buds that commonly occur in temperate regions.
Periodontal ligament‐like tissue regeneration with drilled porous decalcified dentin matrix sheet composite
Authors: Feng G , Wu Y , Yu Y , Huang L , An S , Hu B , Luo J , Song J
Published: August 2017

Objective

In this study, we constructed a composite by combining the human dental follicle cell sheet and a manual drilled porous decalcified dentin matrix that was used to construct ectopic tissue‐engineered periodontal ligament‐like tissues in renal capsules of nude mice.

Materials and methods

Human dental follicle cells were harvested from human lower third molars and then embedded into a temperature‐sensitive culture dish. These cells were then placed into frozen porous decalcified dentin matrix sheets and induced by 50 g/ml ascorbic acid. This established a “sandwich structure” in vitro implant that was placed in nude mice under the renal capsule. The mice were sacrificed at 4 and 8 weeks after implantation, and the implants were assessed after haematoxylin–eosin staining, Masson staining and immunohistochemical staining.

Results

The experimental group showed a fibre structure between the dentin and HA‐TCP after 4 weeks. After 8 weeks, the collagen fibres increased, and the direction was perpendicular to the dentin. Immunohistochemistry showed positive staining in the osteopontin and periostin.

Conclusion

The composite can induce ectopic bone and fibre formation, and the fibre had a certain directionality. Besides, the composite can maintain the stability of the periodontal ligament width.
Relational job characteristics and job satisfaction of public sector employees: When prosocial motivation and red tape collide
Authors: Steijn Bram , van der Voet Joris
Published: August 2017

Recent studies suggested that the relationship between prosocial motivation and job satisfaction is mediated by relational job characteristics (e.g., job impact and job content). Based on a study of Dutch child welfare professionals, we theorize and empirically assess how red tape negatively impacts the relational job characteristics and job satisfaction of public professionals. Our study shows that the relationship between red tape and job satisfaction is partially mediated by relational job characteristics. Red tape thus decreases the job impact and job contact of professionals, thereby decreasing their job satisfaction. In addition, our study provides additional insight into how prosocial motivation and red tape are jointly related to job impact and job satisfaction. This provides support for the point of view that highly motivated public professionals are more sensitive to burdensome rules and procedures. In this respect, red tape acts as a hindrance stressor that thwarts the realization of prosocial aspirations.
Identification of genic SSRs in jute (Corchorus capsularis, Malvaceae) and development of markers for phenylpropanoid biosynthesis genes and regulatory genes
Authors: Satya Pratik , Chakraborty Avrajit , Jana Sourav , Majumdar Snehalata , Karan Maya , Sarkar Debabrata , Datta Subhojit , Mitra Jiban , Kar Chandan S. , Karmakar Pran Gobinda , Singh Nagendra K.
Published: August 2017

In jute (Corchorus spp.), phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway is associated with lignocellulosic bast fibre development and production of various phytochemicals. Development of phenylpropanoid‐related genic markers is thus a key component of gene‐specific precision molecular breeding in jute. We identified a total of 12,772 SSRs in 10,041 unigenes and designed genic SSR markers associated with phenylpropanoid biosynthesis from bast transcriptome of Corchorus capsularis cv. ‘JRC‐212’. A total of 39 and 14 SSR markers were developed from key genes of phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and bast fibre formation, respectively. Further, we developed 457 SSR markers associated with different regulatory gene sequences. Of these, 137 markers were for transcription factors such as WRKY, MYB, MYB‐related, bHLH and zinc finger, which are key regulators and/or modulators of the biosynthesis of phenylpropanoids. Additionally, 600 SSR primer pairs were also designed for other unigenes containing SSR. Diversity analysis based on a set of 41 genic SSR markers in 35 genotypes revealed high polymorphism. The genic SSRs described here are expected to be useful for molecular breeding targeting fibre quality, phytochemical‐related and stress tolerance traits in jute.
Direct uptake of HCO3− in the marine angiosperm Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile driven by a plasma membrane H+ economy
Authors: Rubio Lourdes , García Delia , García‐Sánchez María J. , Niell F. Xavier , Felle Hubert H. , Fernández José A.
Published: August 2017

Seagrasses access HCO3− for photosynthesis by 2 mechanisms, apoplastic carbonic anhydrase‐mediated dehydration of HCO3− to CO2 and direct HCO3− uptake. Here, we have studied plasma membrane energization and the mechanism for HCO3− import in Posidonia oceanica. Classical electrophysiology and ion‐selective microelectrodes were used to measure the membrane potential, cytosolic pH, and the cytosolic concentrations of Na+ and Cl− upon the addition of HCO3−. The photosynthetic response to HCO3− and to inhibitors was also measured. Results indicate that the primary pump of P. oceanica plasma membrane is a fusicoccin‐sensitive H+‐ATPase. Bicarbonate depolarizes the plasma membrane voltage and transiently acidifies the cytosol, indicating that HCO3− is transported into the cells by an H+‐symport. Initial cytosolic acidification is followed by an alkalinization, suggesting an internal dehydration of HCO3−. The lack of cytosolic Na+ and Cl− responses rules out the contribution of these ions to HCO3− transport. The energetics of nH+/HCO3− symport allows, for n = 1, an estimate of cytosolic accumulation of 0.22 mM HCO3−. Because this transporter could permit accumulation of HCO3− up to 100 times above the equilibrium concentration, it would be a significant component of a carbon‐concentrating mechanism in this species.
Secreted products of Fasciola hepatica inhibit the induction of T cell responses that mediate allergy
Authors: Finlay C. M. , Stefanska A. M. , Coleman M. M. , Jahns H. , Cassidy J. P. , McLoughlin R. M. , Mills K. H. G.
Published: August 2017

There is evidence from epidemiology studies of a negative association between infection with helminth parasites and the development of allergy and asthma. Here, we demonstrate that the excretory/secretory products of the helminth Fasciola hepatica (FHES) protected mice against ovalbumin (OVA)‐induced allergic asthma when administered at time of allergen sensitization. FHES reduced the accumulation of mucus, eosinophils and lymphocytes into the airways of allergen‐challenged mice. Furthermore, FHES treatment suppressed Th2 responses in the airways. Interestingly, systemic administration of FHES at allergen challenge had no effect on airway inflammation, demonstrating that alum‐induced Th2 response is set following initial allergen sensitization. Our findings highlight the immunomodulatory potential of molecules secreted by F. hepatica.
Inflammation and fertility in the mare
Authors: Christoffersen M , Troedsson MHT
Published: August 2017

Contents

A transient uterine inflammation post‐breeding is a normal physiological reaction in the mare, and it is believed that the inflammatory response is necessary to eliminate bacteria and excess spermatozoa introduced into the uterine lumen. A tight balance between multiple pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory factors is required for resolving the breeding‐induced inflammation within 24–36 hr in the reproductively healthy mare, whereas a subpopulation of mares is susceptible to development of a persistent infection that can interfere with fertility. The aetiology of persistent endometritis can be either bacterial or semen‐induced and both scenarios can threaten the establishment of pregnancy. Several factors associated with susceptibility to persistent endometritis have been identified including altered innate immune response in the early inflammatory process, reduced myometrial contractions and impaired opsonization; however, the pathogenesis to susceptibility has not been fully elucidated. Current research focuses on the initial hours of uterine inflammatory responses to semen and bacteria, and potential treatments to modify this altered innate immune response. An increased understanding of the mechanisms involved in the disease progression is necessary to improve the treatment and management of these mares. This review attempts to summarize the current knowledge of the uterine inflammatory and immunological responses to breeding‐induced endometritis, persistent breeding‐induced endometritis (PBIE) and bacterial endometritis in the mare.