bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Culture‐independent genomics of a novel chlamydial pathogen of fish provides new insight into host‐specific adaptations utilized by these intracellular bacteria
Authors: Taylor‐Brown Alyce , Pillonel Trestan , Bridle Andrew , Qi Weihong , Bachmann Nathan L. , Miller Terrence L. , Greub Gilbert , Nowak Barbara , Seth‐Smith Helena M.B. , Vaughan Lloyd , Polkinghorne Adam
Published: February 2017

Several Chlamydiales families are associated with epitheliocystis, a common condition of the fish gill epithelium. These families share common ancestors with the Chlamydiaceae and environmental Chlamydiae. Due to the lack of culture systems, little is known about the biology of these chlamydial fish pathogens. We investigated epitheliocystis in cultured Orange‐spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides) from North Queensland, Australia. Basophilic inclusions were present in the gills of 22/31 fish and the presence of the chlamydial pathogen in the cysts was confirmed by in situ hybridization. Giant grouper (Epinephelus lanceolatus) cultured in the same systems were epitheliocystis free. 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed a novel member of the Candidatus Parilichlamydiaceae: Ca. Similichlamydia epinephelii. Using metagenomic approaches, we obtained an estimated 68% of the chlamydial genome, revealing that this novel chlamydial pathogen shares a number of key pathogenic hallmarks with the Chlamydiaceae, including an intact Type III Secretion system and several chlamydial virulence factors. This provides additional evidence that these pathogenic mechanisms were acquired early in the evolution of this unique bacterial phylum. The identification and genomic characterization of Ca. S. epinephelii provides new opportunities to study the biology of distantly‐related chlamydial pathogens while shining a new light on the evolution of pathogenicity of the Chlamydiaceae.
Decline of Controlled Foreign Company Rules and Rise of Intellectual Property Boxes: How the European Court of Justice Affects Tax Competition and Economic Distortions in Europe
Authors: Bräutigam Rainer , Spengel Christoph , Streif Frank
Published: February 2017

The European Court of Justice (ECJ) has become an influential player in the field of direct taxation in the European Union (EU) in the past 20 years. However, it is unclear whether or not the ECJ's decisions and the corresponding reactions by the member states actually contribute to tax neutrality in economic terms and, therefore, to the achievement of the internal market. In 2006, the ECJ limited the applicability of specific tax rules in the EU that are intended to prohibit the excessive use of low‐tax countries by multinationals. Our counterfactual analysis shows that the court's restriction of so‐called controlled foreign company rules and the related second‐round reactions by some member states – i.e. the introduction of low‐tax regimes for income from acquired intellectual properties (IP boxes for acquired IP) – cast doubt on the seemingly positive effects the ECJ has on reducing tax distortions. In addition, we demonstrate that the restricted applicability of IP boxes as endorsed by the OECD and the European Commission would strengthen tax neutrality in Europe.
The Reliability of Facial Recognition of Deceased Persons on Photographs
Authors: Caplova Zuzana , Obertova Zuzana , Gibelli Daniele M. , Mazzarelli Debora , Fracasso Tony , Vanezis Peter , Sforza Chiarella , Cattaneo Cristina
Published: February 2017

In humanitarian emergencies, such as the current deceased migrants in the Mediterranean, antemortem documentation needed for identification may be limited. The use of visual identification has been previously reported in cases of mass disasters such as Thai tsunami. This pilot study explores the ability of observers to match unfamiliar faces of living and dead persons and whether facial morphology can be used for identification. A questionnaire was given to 41 students and five professionals in the field of forensic identification with the task to choose whether a facial photograph corresponds to one of the five photographs in a lineup and to identify the most useful features used for recognition. Although the overall recognition score did not significantly differ between professionals and students, the median scores of 78.1% and 80.0%, respectively, were too low to consider this method as a reliable identification method and thus needs to be supported by other means.
Chronic low back pain and its association with lumbar vertebrae and intervertebral disc changes in adults. A case control study
Authors: Karunanayake Aranjan L. , Pathmeswaran Arunasalam , Wijayaratne Lalith S.
Published: February 2017

Aim

This study was done to determine the association between chronic low back pain and vertebral fractures, intervertebral disc space (IDS) narrowing, vertebral osteophytes and spondylolisthesis among adults.

Method

This case control study was done in Sri Lanka. Cases were patients with low back pain and controls were without low back pain. Postero‐anterior and lateral radiographs of lumbar sacral spine of both groups were studied. To detect vertebral fractures in fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae, anterior and posterior heights of vertebrae were measured using a Vernier caliper and antero‐posterior ratio (A/P) was calculated. Having an A/P ratio value of < 0.89 was considered as a vertebral fracture. Presence of disc space narrowing, vertebral osteophytes and spondylolisthesis was assessed by two radiologists working independently. Bivariate and logistic regression analysis was done to find associations.

Results

There were 140 cases and 140 controls. Mean (SD) age for cases was 51.6 (17) years. Mean (SD) age for controls was 50 (15) years. Females made up 62% of cases and controls. Fifth lumbar vertebral fracture (odds ratio [OR] = 10.2;P= 0.001), fourth lumbar vertebral fracture (OR= 2.5;P= 0.017) andIDSnarrowing (OR= 4.15,P= 0.009) had a significant association with low back pain and vertebral osteophytes and spondylolisthesis did not have a significant association with low back pain.

Conclusion

Only vertebral fractures andIDSnarrowing had a significant association with chronic low back pain.
Is chronic kidney disease an adverse factor in lung cancer clinical outcome? A propensity score matching study
Authors: Lu Ming‐Shian , Chen Miao‐Fen , Lin Chien‐Chao , Tseng Yuan‐Hsi , Huang Yao‐Kuang , Liu Hui‐Ping , Tsai Ying‐Huang
Published: February 2017

Background

Comorbidity has a great impact on lung cancer survival. Renal function status may affect treatment decisions and drug toxicity. The survival outcome in lung cancer patients with coexisting chronic kidney disease (CKD) has not been fully evaluated. We hypothesized that CKD is an independent risk factor for mortality in patients with lung cancer.

Methods

A retrospective, propensity‐matched study of 434 patients diagnosed between June 2004 and May 2012 was conducted. CKD was defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/minute. Lung cancer and coexisting CKD patients were matched 1:1 to patients with lung cancer without CKD.

Results

Age, gender, smoking status, histology, and lung cancer stage were not statistically significantly different between the CKD and non‐CKD groups. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis demonstrated a median survival of 7.26 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 6.06–8.46) in the CKD group compared with 7.82 months (95% CI 6.33–9.30) in the non‐CKD group (P = 0.41). Lung cancer stage‐specific survival is not affected by CKD. Although lung cancer patients with CKD presented with an increased risk of death of 6%, this result was not statistically significant (hazard ratio 1.06, 95% CI 0.93–1.22; P = 0.41).

Conclusion

According to our limited experience, CKD is not an independent risk factor for survival in lung cancer patients. Clinicians should not be discouraged to treat lung cancer patients with CKD.
Making recovery more rewarding: difficult with possible unintended consequences, but successful examples are out there
Authors: McKay James R.
Published: February 2017

Commentary to: Making the hard work of recovery more attractive for those with substance use disorders
Improving nutritional practices in premature infants can increase their growth velocity and the breastfeeding rates
Authors: Piris Borregas Salvador , López Maestro María , Torres Valdivieso María José , Martínez Ávila José Carlos , Bustos Lozano Gerardo , Pallás Alonso Carmen Rosa
Published: February 2017

Aim

This study analysed the changes in growth velocity (GV) of preterm infants weighing <1500 g based on different nutritional practices over a 24‐year period.

Methods

A retrospective study with prospectively collected data was performed in a level three Spanish neonatal intensive care unit. Data on birthweight, gestational age (GA) and GV were collected from 1990 to 2013 and breastfeeding data were gathered from 2000. A generalised linear model corrected by GA and small for gestational age was applied. Multiple mean comparisons between the levels of the variables of interest were performed using the Tukey test.

Results

We included 1651 children in the study. The average GA in 1990–1991 was 30.48 ± 2.89 and the average GA in 2012–2013 was 28.79 ± 2.58 (p < 0.01). Significant differences were found when we compared the adjusted GV between the first and last study periods. The most important differences appeared between 1990 and 2013, when the GV increased by 3.27 ± 0.5 g/kg/day (p < 0.01). The breastfeeding rate in 2000–2001 was 47.95% and in 2012–2013 it was 73.58% (p = 0.0002).

Conclusion

Introducing nutritional practices such as the increased use of breastmilk and the breastfeeding rate improved GV over the study period.
Chronically elevated bilirubin protects from cardiac reperfusion injury in the male Gunn rat
Authors: Bakrania B. , Du Toit E. F. , Ashton K. J. , Wagner K‐H. , Headrick J. P. , Bulmer A. C.
Published: February 2017

Aims

Bilirubin is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, as evidenced in conditions of mild hyperbilirubinaemia (Gilbert's Syndrome). Little is known regarding myocardial stress resistance in hyperbilirubinaemic conditions or whether life‐long exposure modifies cardiac function, which might contribute to protection from cardiovascular disease.

Methods

Hyperbilirubinaemic rats and littermate controls underwent echocardiography at 3, 6 and 12 months of age, with hearts subsequently assessed for resistance to 30 min of ischaemia. Heart tissue was then collected for assessment of bilirubin content.

Results

No difference in baseline cardiac function was evident until 6 months onwards, where Gunn rats demonstrated aortic dilatation and reduced peak ejection velocities. Additionally, duration of ventricular ejection increased progressively, indicating a negative inotropic effect of bilirubin in vivo. Ex vivo analysis of baseline function revealed reduced left ventricular pressure development (LVDP) and contractility in hyperbilirubinaemic rats. Furthermore, stress resistance was improved in Gunn hearts: post‐ischaemic recoveries of LVDP (76 ± 22% vs. 29 ± 17% Control, P < 0.01) and coronary flow (96 ± 9% vs. 86 ± 16% Control, P < 0.01) were improved in Gunn hearts, accompanied by reduced infarct area (21 ± 5% vs. 47 ± 15% Control, P < 0.01), and ventricular malondialdehyde and protein carbonyl content. Expression of myocardial nitric oxide‐regulating genes including Nos1 and Noa1 were not significantly different.

Conclusions

These data reveal life‐long hyperbilirubinaemia induces age‐dependent hypocontractility in male Gunn rats, and improved stress resistance. In addition, bilirubin exerts sex‐independent effects on vascular structure, myocardial function and ischaemic tolerance, the latter likely mediated via bilirubin's antioxidant properties.
Hepatitis B reactivation in patients with chronic hepatitis C undergoing anti‐viral therapy with an interferon‐free regimen
Authors: Londoño M.‐C. , Lens S. , Mariño Z. , Bonacci M. , Ariza X. , Broquetas T. , Pla A. , Bartres C. , Adriani M. V. , Rodríguez‐Tajes S. , Costa J. , Carrión J. A. , Pérez‐del‐Pulgar S. , Forns X.
Published: February 2017

Background

A few cases of hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation during anti‐viral therapy against hepatitis C (HCV) have been reported. However, the information regarding the real impact of this phenomenon is scarce.

Aim

To evaluate the risk of HBV reactivation during anti‐viral therapy against HCV with an interferon‐free regimen with direct‐acting anti‐virals (DAAs).

Methods

Observational and prospective study of 352 patients receiving DAAs therapy between September 2015 and May 2016. HBV‐DNA and ALT levels were monitored at baseline, at week 4 of anti‐viral therapy, at end of treatment and 12 weeks after treatment discontinuation in patients with HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) positive or HBV core antibody (anti‐HBc) positive before starting anti‐viral therapy.

Results

Ten (2.8%) and 64 (18%) patients were HBsAg and anti‐HBc positive at baseline, respectively. Five (50%) of 10 HBsAg positive and one (1.6%) of 64 anti‐HBc positive patients presented HBV virological reactivation (>1log increase in HBV‐DNA levels). None of these patients presented clinical reactivation (increase in ALT levels).

Conclusions

HBV virological reactivation is frequent in HBsAg+ patients receiving anti‐viral therapy against HCV. However, HBV‐DNA elevations were modest (<20 000 IU/mL) and without clinical impact (no ALT elevation).
Birth order and preschool children's cooperative abilities: A within‐family analysis
Authors: Prime Heather , Plamondon André , Jenkins Jennifer M.
Published: February 2017

There is evidence for a laterborn sibling advantage in some social skills, although this has not been investigated in children's early capacities for cooperation. Using a within‐family design, this study compared firstborn and laterborn (i.e., middle and youngest) siblings on their cooperative abilities when they were aged around 3 years. Further, the study investigated whether the association between children's birth order and cooperative abilities was dependent on the prosocial behaviour of other siblings in the home. The sample included 288 ethnically and sociodemographically diverse children clustered within 144 families. Cooperation was directly assessed using a problem‐solving paradigm requiring two simultaneous and complementary actions of the child and adult tester to achieve a joint goal. Parents reported on the prosocial behaviour of up to four siblings in the home. Results of a multilevel analysis indicated that youngest children were more advanced in their cooperative abilities, compared to firstborn children, irrespective of their siblings’ prosociality. Middle children, in contrast, were only advantaged over firstborn children if their siblings showed high levels of prosociality. The analysis accounted for a number of potential family‐wide confounds, providing evidence that this is a child‐specific effect related to birth order. Findings are discussed from a social constructivist perspective with an emphasis on the sibling relationship as a context for cooperative interactions that facilitate sociocognitive development.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

There are individual differences in children's early capacities for cooperation.

Children's early cooperation has not been considered in relation to birth order and/or sibling interaction quality.

What does this study add?

Youngest children are advantaged in their cooperation as compared to firstborn children.

Middle children are also advantaged, but only if their siblings are prosocial.

The use of a developmentally sensitive within‐family design reduces confounds common to birth order studies.
Do levels of evidence affect breadth of service? A study on the use of clinical guidance in a learning disability service
Authors: Pateraki Eleni , Macmahon Kenneth
Published: February 2017

Accessible summary

The government suggests to the NHS what talking psychological therapies should be given to people when they have worries or problems.

This study examined a service for people with learning disabilities in Scotland. It tried to find out whether the service was doing what the government suggests.

The study found that the people who were seen by the service often had more than one difficulty, and the service gave extra talking psychological therapy to them.

We think that this study shows that people with learning disabilities should have more treatments available for them to meet their needs.

Background

For services across the UK, increasing emphasis is placed on the use of evidence‐based psychological treatments. In this context, the Scottish Government published the MATRIX, a best‐practice clinical governance document, with a brief section on therapies for people with learning disabilities. As with most clinical guidelines, randomised controlled trials were considered the “gold standard.” However, within the learning disability field, the existing evidence base is relatively limited, resulting in a narrow guidance for services.

Methods

This study evaluated the use of best‐practice guidance (the MATRIX), in a psychology service for adults with learning disabilities, covering one of the largest NHS Boards in Scotland. A randomly selected 50% (N = 73) of case notes opened since October 2011 (publication date for the MATRIX) was reviewed. Eight case notes were second‐rated by an independent clinician.

Results

Findings showed that service users typically presented with multiple psychological difficulties, and clinicians offered a range of therapies additional to those suggested in the guidance. This was particularly evident in cases managed by clinical psychologists.

Conclusions

Applying rigid therapeutic recommendations may limit opportunities for integrative practice. The potential impact of inflexibly adopting clinical guidelines on service planning and resources is discussed.
ALS‐Associated Endoplasmic Reticulum Proteins in Denervated Skeletal Muscle: Implications for Motor Neuron Disease Pathology
Authors: Jesse C. M. , Bushuven E. , Tripathi P. , Chandrasekar A. , Simon C. M. , Drepper C. , Yamoah A. , Dreser A. , Katona I. , Johann S. , Beyer C. , Wagner S. , Grond M. , Nikolin S. , Anink J. , Troost D. , Sendtner M. , Goswami A. , Weis J.
Published: February 2017

Alpha‐motoneurons and muscle fibres are structurally and functionally interdependent. Both cell types particularly rely on endoplasmic reticulum (ER/SR) functions. Mutations of the ER proteins VAPB, SigR1 and HSP27 lead to hereditary motor neuron diseases (MNDs). Here, we determined the expression profile and localization of these ER proteins/chaperons by immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting in biopsy and autopsy muscle tissue of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neurogenic muscular atrophies (NMAs) and compared these patterns to mouse models of neurogenic muscular atrophy. Postsynaptic neuromuscular junction staining for VAPB was intense in normal human and mouse muscle and decreased in denervated Nmd2J mouse muscle fibres. In contrast, VAPB levels together with other chaperones and autophagy markers were increased in extrasynaptic regions of denervated muscle fibres of patients with MNDs and other NMAs, especially at sites of focal myofibrillar disintegration (targets). These findings did not differ between NMAs due to ALS and other causes. G93A‐SOD1 mouse muscle fibres showed a similar pattern of protein level increases in denervated muscle fibres. In addition, they showed globular VAPB‐immunoreactive structures together with misfolded SOD1 protein accumulations, suggesting a primary myopathic change. Our findings indicate that altered expression and localization of these ER proteins and autophagy markers are part of the dynamic response of muscle fibres to denervation. The ER is particularly prominent and vulnerable in both muscle fibres and alpha‐motoneurons. Thus, ER pathology could contribute to the selective build‐up of degenerative changes in the neuromuscular axis in MNDs.
Long non‐coding RNA TUG1 promotes migration and invasion by acting as a ceRNA of miR‐335‐5p in osteosarcoma cells
Authors: Wang Yong , Yang Tao , Zhang Zhen , Lu Ming , Zhao Wei , Zeng Xiandong , Zhang Weiguo
Published: February 2017

Long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) have been the focus of increasing attention due to the role they play in many diseases, including osteosarcoma. The function of taurine upregulated gene 1 (TUG1) and its mechanism in osteosarcoma remain unclear. In our research, we found that TUG1 was elevated and correlated with a poor prognosis in osteosarcoma patients. In addition, the following functional experiment showed that decreased TUG1 could remarkably inhibit osteosarcoma cell migration and invasion, indicating that TUG1 functioned as an oncogene in osteosarcoma. Moreover, we revealed that TUG1 and Rho‐associated coiled‐coil‐containing protein kinase 1 (ROCK1), a metastasis‐related gene targeted by microRNA‐335‐5p (miR‐335‐5p), had the same miR‐335‐5p combining site. The subsequent luciferase assay verified TUG1 was a target of miR‐335‐5p. Furthermore, the results of a real‐time quantitative PCR showed that TUG1 and miR‐335‐5p could affect each other's expression. respectively. Finally, we affirmed that TUG1 affected ROCK1 expression and ROCK1‐mediated migration/invasion by working as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) via miR‐335‐5p. In summary, the findings of this study, based on ceRNA theory, combining the research foundation of miR‐335‐5p and ROCK1, and taking TUG1 as a new study point, provide new insight into molecular‐level reversing migration and invasion of osteosarcoma.
Muscle activation and heart rate responses to a side‐step interval exercise
Authors: Thiebaud Robert S. , Abe Takashi , Bravo Jonathan C. , Giovannitti Nicolas , Sullivan Avery P.
Published: February 2017

Background

The side‐step test is commonly used to assess agility. Side‐step interval exercise may also be a potential way to improve cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness. However, the acute heart rate and muscle activation response to this type of exercise is not well established. In addition, different tempos can influence these responses. The purpose of this study was to determine the acute heart rate and muscle activation responses of a side‐step interval exercise to different exercise tempos.

Methods

Ten participants completed a max test and performed a side‐step interval exercise for 4 × 1 min intervals separated by 1‐min rest intervals at a slow (84 bpm) and fast (112 bpm) tempo. Muscle activation of the vastus lateralis and vastus medialis and heart rate were measured during exercise.

Results

During the slow tempo, vastus lateralis muscle activation varied from 45% to 48% of maximum muscle activation (EMGmax) while vastus medialis muscle activation varied from 51% to 54% EMGmax. During the fast tempo, vastus lateralis muscle activation varied from 53% to 65% EMGmax while vastus medialis muscle activation varied from 64% to 76% EMGmax. Heart rates varied from 80–84% HRmax from set 1 to set 4 for the fast tempo and varied from 67% to 72% HRmax from set 1 to set 4 for the slow speeds.

Conclusion

Exercise intensity of a side‐step interval exercise reached adequate levels to suggest that it may be possible to use this type of exercise to improve cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness.
ABCB1 gene is associated with the risk of bullous pemphigoid in a polish population
Authors: Rychlik‐Sych Mariola , Barańska Małgorzata , Dudarewicz Michał , Skrętkowicz Jadwiga , Żebrowska Agnieszka , Owczarek Jacek , Waszczykowska Elżbieta
Published: February 2017

Background and objectives

Polymorphisms in the P‐glycoprotein‐encoding ABCB1 gene may affect the intracellular concentration of xenobiotics, and thus contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases, including bullous pemphigoid (BP). The objective of the present study was to investigate whether there is an association between the C3435T and G2677T/A polymorphisms in the ABCB1 gene and the risk of BP in a Polish population.

Patients and methods

The study included 71 patients with BP and 156 healthy volunteers. Determination of the C3435T polymorphism was carried out using PCR‐RFLP; the G2677T/A polymorphism, using allele‐specific PCR.

Results

While there was no correlation between the C3435T polymorphism and the risk of BP, we did find such an association with respect to the G2677T/A polymorphism. The relative risk of BP was more than five times greater in individuals with the 2677TA genotype (OR = 5.52, p = 0.0063), and more than twice as high in carriers of the 2677TT genotype (OR = 2.40, p = 0.0076). At 2.40 (0.000018), the OR in carriers of the 2677T allele was also increased. The greater prevalence of the 2677GG genotype and the 2677G allele in the control group, as well as the OR < 1.0 (0.22 and 0.33, respectively), suggest a protective role of the 2677G allele with respect to the development of BP.

Conclusions

The results of the present study indicate that the G2677T/A polymorphism in the ABCB1 gene may affect the risk of developing BP.
Building on the capacities of crisis‐affected populations: From victims to actors
Authors: Gibbons Pat , McDermott Ronan , Maitra Sulagna , Herman Joost
Published: February 2017

Attempts to consolidate humanitarian actors into a humanitarian system are occurring alongside efforts to generate greater coherence between humanitarian action, development and peace‐building. Whether a strengthened humanitarian system can adhere to the humanitarian principles while engaging in post‐conflict societal reconstruction is unclear. This would require humanitarian action to address the victimhood mentality when dealing with affected populations and to seek out capacities as well as needs. In so doing the inherent political nature of humanitarian action and the manner in which it is prone to instrumentalization needs to be recognized. This would assist in generating the sensitivity required in order to ensure that humanitarian action would ultimately support rather than undermine reconciliation and the building of democratic institutions.
The Score Family Assessment Questionnaire: A Decade of Progress
Authors: Carr Alan , Stratton Peter
Published: February 2017

This paper reviews a decade of research (2006–2016) on a family assessment instrument called the Systemic Clinical Outcome and Routine Evaluation (SCORE). The SCORE was developed in Europe to monitor progress and outcome in systemic therapy and has been adopted by the European Family Therapy Association as the main instrument for assessing the outcome in systemic family and couple therapy. There are currently six main versions of this instrument: SCORE‐40, SCORE‐15, SCORE‐28, SCORE‐29, Child SCORE‐15, and Relational SCORE‐15. It has also been translated into a number of European languages. Fifteen empirical studies of the SCORE “family of measures” have been conducted. Most have aimed to establish psychometric properties of these instruments in English and other languages. Others have used the SCORE to document the level of family adjustment in clinical samples or evaluate outcome in treatment trials. There is now sufficient evidence for the reliability and validity of the SCORE to justify the use of brief versions of this instrument to monitor progress and outcome in the routine practice of systemic therapy.
Combining the auxin‐inducible degradation system with CRISPR/Cas9‐based genome editing for the conditional depletion of endogenous Drosophila melanogaster proteins
Authors: Bence Melinda , Jankovics Ferenc , Lukácsovich Tamás , Erdélyi Miklós
Published: February 2017

Inducible protein degradation techniques have considerable advantages over classical genetic approaches, which generate loss‐of‐function phenotypes at the gene or mRNA level. The plant‐derived auxin‐inducible degradation system (AID) is a promising technique which enables the degradation of target proteins tagged with the AID motif in nonplant cells. Here, we present a detailed characterization of this method employed during the adult oogenesis of Drosophila. Furthermore, with the help of CRISPR/Cas9‐based genome editing, we improve the utility of the AID system in the conditional elimination of endogenously expressed proteins. We demonstrate that the AID system induces efficient and reversible protein depletion of maternally provided proteins both in the ovary and the early embryo. Moreover, the AID system provides a fine spatiotemporal control of protein degradation and allows for the generation of different levels of protein knockdown in a well‐regulated manner. These features of the AID system enable the unraveling of the discrete phenotypes of genes with highly complex functions. We utilized this system to generate a conditional loss‐of‐function allele which allows for the specific degradation of the Vasa protein without affecting its alternative splice variant (solo) and the vasa intronic gene (vig). With the help of this special allele, we demonstrate that dramatic decrease of Vasa protein in the vitellarium does not influence the completion of oogenesis as well as the establishment of proper anteroposterior and dorsoventral polarity in the developing oocyte. Our study suggests that both the localization and the translation of gurken mRNA in the vitellarium is independent from Vasa.
Role of parnaparin in atherosclerosis
Authors: Bonomini Francesca , Taurone Samanta , Parnigotto Pierpaolo , Zamai Loris , Rodella Luigi F. , Artico Marco , Rezzani Rita
Published: February 2017

Atherosclerosis is characterized by a proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and their migration to the intima, which induces thickening of the intima itself, but the mechanism remains poorly understood. Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) inhibits the proliferation of VSMCs. Previous studies have shown that a LMWH, parnaparin (PNP), acts on the processes of atherogenesis and atheroprogression in experimental animal models. The aim of this study was to investigate the involvement of oxidative stress, inflammation and VSMCs in the regulation of vascular wall homeostasis. We also considered the possibility of restoring vascular pathological changes using PNP treatment. In order to evaluate vascular remodelling in this study we have analysed the morphological changes in aortas of an animal model of atherosclerosis, apolipoprotein E‐deficient mice (ApoE−/−) fed with a normal or a western diet without treatment or treated with PNP. We also analysed, by immunohistochemistry, the expression of proteins linked to atherogenesis and atheroprogression – an enzyme involved in oxidative stress, iNOS, examples of inflammatory mediators, such as tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α), interleukins 1 and 6 (IL‐1 and IL‐6), and markers of VSMC changes, in particular plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 and thrombospondin‐1 (PAI‐1 and TSP‐1). Our results could suggest that PNP downregulates VSMC proliferation and migration, mediated by PAI‐1 and TSP‐1, and reduces inflammation and oxidative stress in vessels. These data suggested that LMWH, in particular PNP, could be a theoretically practical tool in the prevention of atherosclerotic vascular modification.
Total proximal ureter substitution using buccal mucosa
Authors: Fahmy Omar , Schubert Tina , Khairul‐Asri Mohd Ghani , Stenzl Arnulf , Gakis Georgios
Published: February 2017

The surgical treatment of a long proximal ureteral stricture is a challenging situation for reconstructive surgeons. Despite the underlying morbidities, ileal interposition and autotransplantation are the options available to treat complex cases of long segment ureteral stricture. Buccal mucosa has shown excellent results in urethroplasty. However, its use in ureteral reconstruction is infrequent. We report on a 64‐year‐old female patient with multiple comorbidities and prior abdominal surgeries for Crohn's disease who underwent a successful total substitution of a long segment of the proximal ureter using buccal mucosa. Regular postoperative isotope scans showed improvement in renal function. Based on the pleasant outcome of this case and review of the literature, buccal mucosa might be a viable option with low morbidity in selected cases.
Functionally dissimilar neighbors accelerate litter decomposition in two grass species
Authors: Barbe Lou , Jung Vincent , Prinzing Andreas , Bittebiere Anne‐Kristel , Butenschoen Olaf , Mony Cendrine
Published: February 2017

Plant litter decomposition is a key regulator of nutrient recycling. In a given environment, decomposition of litter from a focal species depends on its litter quality and on the efficiency of local decomposers. Both may be strongly modified by functional traits of neighboring species, but the consequences for decomposition of litter from the focal species remain unknown.

We tested whether decomposition of a focal plant's litter is influenced by the functional‐trait dissimilarity to the neighboring plants. We cultivated two grass species (Brachypodium pinnatum and Elytrigia repens) in experimental mesocosms with functionally similar and dissimilar neighborhoods, and reciprocally transplanted litter.

For both species, litter quality increased in functionally dissimilar neighborhoods, partly as a result of changes in functional traits involved in plant–plant interactions. Furthermore, functional dissimilarity increased overall decomposer efficiency in one species, probably via complementarity effects.

Our results suggest a novel mechanism of biodiversity effects on ecosystem functioning in grasslands: interspecific functional diversity within plant communities can enhance intraspecific contributions to litter decomposition. Thus, plant species might better perform in diverse communities by benefiting from higher remineralization rates of their own litter.
Dental development in Down syndrome and healthy children: a comparative study using the Demirjian method
Authors: van der Linden M. S. , Vucic S. , van Marrewijk D. J. F. , Ongkosuwito E. M.
Published: February 2017

Structured Abstract

Objective

In children with Down syndrome, the timing of dental eruption is important for orthodontics treatment planning. Aim of this study was to determine whether tooth eruption and development of the dentition in children with Down syndrome are impaired.

Material and Methods

Dental development was scored on orthopantomograms (OPTs) of 95 children with Down syndrome. The dental age was determined at the left mandibular side according to the Demirjian method and by converting the assigned scores to the dental maturity score. Dental development scores of control children and DS children were compared with a mixed model linear regression analysis.

Results

The model showed statistically significant changes relating to increasing age (P<0.001) and gender (P<0.05). In this comparison, the total DS group (with and without hypodontia) was not statistically significantly different from the control group. There was also no significant difference between the total sample of DS children and the control group after using the Nyström imputation (with and without hypodontia).

Conclusion

The findings showed that dental development in DS children is similar to the development of control children and that a relationship exists between hypodontia and dental development. The clinically observed late eruption is probably not due to late dental development but due to the other processes that take place during eruption, such as the possible impaired processes at the apical side and the occlusal side of an erupting element.
Soft tissue keratocyst of the cheek mucosa associated with a cluster of epithelial nests: a case report
Authors: Ghazali N. , Faulkner M. , Chandrasekaran L. , Newman L. , Barrett A.W.
Published: February 2017

The vast majority of odontogenic keratocysts (keratocystic odontogenic tumour) (OKC) are intra‐osseous, but a rare variant has been documented in the mucosa of the cheek. Despite its extra‐osseous location, the source of this variant is assumed to be remnants of the dental lamina. We describe a keratocyst which was situated in the buccal space of a 76 year‐old man. Microscopically, a cluster of epithelial nests was present in the cyst wall. Basal palisading and reversed nuclear polarity were features of both the nests and the cyst lining. Some nests had lumina. The epithelial cluster was adjacent to small nerves. The nests and the cyst lining were strongly positive for cytokeratin (CK) 5 and p63, and negative for CK18 and 20. CK7‐positive cells were present in the centre of the nests, but the cyst lining was entirely negative. CK8 and CK19 were strongly expressed by the epithelial nests, but only focally by the cyst lining. Whereas the nests were negative for Ki67, the cyst lining showed the pattern of basal and parabasal positive nuclei seen in OKC. The origin of these nests is uncertain; the most likely candidates are ectopic remnants of dental lamina, salivary glands, isthmus of the cutaneous hair follicle and the juxta‐oral organ of Chievitz. On the basis of immunophenotype, we were unable to determine whether their presence was coincidental, or whether the epithelial nests were the source of the cyst. The cyst has not recurred in 34 years.
Quantification and ecological study of ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ in citrus hosts, rootstocks and the Asian citrus psyllid
Authors: Lin C.‐Y. , Tsai C.‐H. , Tien H.‐J. , Wu M.‐L. , Su H.‐J. , Hung T.‐H.
Published: February 2017

The use of proper management strategies for citrus huanglongbing (HLB), caused by ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ (Las) and transmitted by Asian citrus psyllid (ACP) (Diaphorina citri), is a priority issue. HLB control is based on healthy seedlings, tolerant rootstock cultivars and reduction of ACP populations. Here, dynamic populations of Las in different citrus hosts and each instar of ACP were studied, together with the seasonal growth and distribution of Las in different tissues, using conventional and TaqMan real‐time PCR. Different levels of susceptibility/tolerance to HLB were seen, resulting in different degrees of symptom severity and growth effects on hosts or rootstocks. Troyer citrange, Swingle citrumelo and wood apple were highly tolerant among 11 rootstock cultivars. Regarding distribution and seasonal analysis of Las, mature and old leaves contained high concentrations in cool temperatures in autumn and spring. Las was detected earlier through psyllid transmission than through graft inoculation, and the amounts of Las (AOL) varied in different hosts. Thus, different AOL (104–107 copy numbers μL−1) and Las‐carrying percentages (LCP; 40–53.3%) were observed in each citrus cultivar and on psyllids, respectively. Furthermore, both AOL and LCP were lower in nymphs than in adult psyllids, whereas the LCP of psyllids were not affected by increasing the acquisition‐access time. The present study has significant implications for disease ecology. The combination of early detection, use of suitable rootstocks and constraint of psyllid populations could achieve better management of HLB disease.
Effect of Postnatal HIV Treatment on Clinical Mastitis and Breast Inflammation in HIV‐Infected Breast‐feeding Women
Authors: Zadrozny Sabrina , Westreich Daniel , Hudgens Michael G. , Chasela Charles , Jamieson Denise J. , Martinson Francis , Zimba Chifundo , Tegha Gerald , Hoffman Irving , Miller William C. , Pence Brian W. , King Caroline C. , Kourtis Athena P. , Msungama Wezi , van der Horst Charles ,   the BAN Study Team
Published: February 2017

Background

The relationship between mastitis and antiretroviral therapy among HIV‐positive, breast‐feeding women is unclear.

Methods

In the Breastfeeding, Antiretrovirals, and Nutrition (BAN) study, conducted in Lilongwe, Malawi, 2369 mother‐infant pairs were randomized to a nutritional supplement group and to one of three treatment groups: maternal antiretroviral therapy (ART), infant nevirapine (NVP) or standard of care for 24 weeks of exclusive breast‐feeding and 4 weeks of weaning. Among 1472 HIV‐infected women who delivered live infants between 2004 and 2007, we estimated cumulative incidence functions and sub‐distribution hazard ratios (HR) of mastitis or breast inflammation comparing women in maternal ART (n = 487) or infant nevirapine (n = 492) groups to the standard of care (n = 493). Nutritional supplement groups (743 took, 729 did not) were also compared.

Results

Through 28‐weeks post‐partum, 102 of 1472 women experienced at least one occurrence of mastitis or breast inflammation. The 28‐week risk was higher for maternal ART (risk difference (RD) 4.5, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.9, 8.1) and infant NVP (RD 3.6, 95% CI 0.3, 6.9) compared to standard of care. The hazard of late‐appearing mastitis or breast inflammation (from week 5–28) was also higher for maternal ART (HR 6.7, 95% CI 2.0, 22.6) and infant NVP (HR 5.1, 95% CI 1.5, 17. 5) compared to the standard of care.

Conclusions

Mastitis or breast inflammation while breast‐feeding is a possible side effect for women taking prophylactic ART and women whose infants take NVP, warranting additional research in the context of postnatal HIV transmission.
Endurance capacity and neuromuscular fatigue following high‐ vs moderate‐intensity endurance training: A randomized trial
Authors: O'Leary T. J. , Collett J. , Howells K. , Morris M. G.
Published: February 2017

High‐intensity exercise induces significant central and peripheral fatigue; however, the effect of endurance training on these mechanisms of fatigue is poorly understood. We compared the effect of cycling endurance training of disparate intensities on high‐intensity exercise endurance capacity and the associated limiting central and peripheral fatigue mechanisms. Twenty adults were randomly assigned to 6 weeks of either high‐intensity interval training (HIIT, 6‐8×5 minutes at halfway between lactate threshold and maximal oxygen uptake [50%Δ]) or volume‐matched moderate‐intensity continuous training (CONT, ~60‐80 minutes at 90% lactate threshold). Two time to exhaustion (TTE) trials at 50%Δ were completed pre‐ and post‐training to assess endurance capacity; the two post‐training trials were completed at the pretraining 50%Δ (same absolute intensity) and the “new” post‐training 50%Δ (same relative intensity). Pre‐ and post‐exercise responses to femoral nerve and motor cortex stimulation were examined to determine peripheral and central fatigue, respectively. HIIT resulted in greater increases in TTE at the same absolute and relative intensities as pre‐training (148% and 43%, respectively) compared with CONT (38% and −4%, respectively) (P≤.019). Compared with pre‐training, HIIT increased the level of potentiated quadriceps twitch reduction (−34% vs −43%, respectively, P=.023) and attenuated the level of voluntary activation reduction (−7% vs −3%, respectively, P=.047) following the TTE trial at the same relative intensity. There were no other training effects on neuromuscular fatigue development. This suggests that central fatigue resistance contributes to enhanced high‐intensity exercise endurance capacity after HIIT by allowing greater performance to be extruded from the muscle.
Does increased physical activity in school affect children's executive function and aerobic fitness?
Authors: Kvalø S. E. , Bru E. , Brønnick K. , Dyrstad S. M.
Published: February 2017

This study seeks to explore whether increased PA in school affects children's executive function and aerobic fitness. The “Active school” study was a 10‐month randomized controlled trial. The sample included 449 children (10‐11 years old) in five intervention and four control schools. The weekly interventions were 2×45 minutes physically active academic lessons, 5×10 minutes physically active breaks, and 5×10 minutes physically active homework. Aerobic fitness was measured using a 10‐minute interval running test. Executive function was tested using four cognitive tests (Stroop, verbal fluency, digit span, and Trail Making). A composite score for executive function was computed and used in analyses. Mixed ANCOVA repeated measures were performed to analyze changes in scores for aerobic fitness and executive function. Analysis showed a tendency for a time×group interaction on executive function, but the results were non‐significant F(1, 344)=3.64, P=.057. There was no significant time×group interaction for aerobic fitness. Results indicate that increased physical activity in school might improve children's executive function, even without improvement in aerobic fitness, but a longer intervention period may be required to find significant effects.
Relationship between the length of the forefoot bones and performance in male sprinters
Authors: Tanaka T. , Suga T. , Otsuka M. , Misaki J. , Miyake Y. , Kudo S. , Nagano A. , Isaka T.
Published: February 2017

Although recent studies have reported that the forefoot bones are longer in sprinters than in non‐sprinters, these reports included a relatively small number of subjects. Moreover, while computer simulation suggested that longer forefoot bones may contribute to higher sprint performance by enhancing plantar flexor moment during sprinting, the correlation between forefoot bone length and sprint performance in humans has not been confirmed in observational studies. Thus, using a relatively large sample, we compared the length of the forefoot bones between sprinters and non‐sprinters. We also examined the relationship between forefoot bone length and performance in sprinters. The length of forefoot bones of the big and second toes in 36 well‐trained male sprinters and 36 male non‐sprinters was measured using magnetic resonance imaging. The length of forefoot bones in the big and second toes was significantly longer in sprinters than in non‐sprinters. After dividing the sprinters into faster and slower groups according to their personal best time in the 100‐m sprint, it was found that the forefoot bone length of the second toe, but not that of the big toe, was significantly longer in faster group than in slower group. Furthermore, the forefoot bone length of the second toe correlated significantly with the personal best time in the 100‐m sprint. This study supported evidence that the forefoot bones are longer in sprinters than in non‐sprinters. In addition, this is the first study to show that longer forefoot bones may be advantageous for achieving superior sprint performance in humans.
Anatomical study of the inferior patellar pole and patellar tendon
Authors: Edama M. , Kageyama I. , Nakamura M. , Kikumoto T. , Nakamura E. , Ito W. , Takabayashi T. , Inai T. , Onishi H.
Published: February 2017

In this study, detailed investigations into the shape of the inferior patellar pole, the site of the patellar tendon attachment, and the length and course of the patellar tendon were performed with the aim of examining the anatomical factors involved in the developmental mechanism of patellar tendinitis. The investigation examined 100 legs from 50 cadavers. The inferior patellar pole was classified into three types: pointed, intermediate, and blunt. The attachment of the patellar tendon to the inferior patellar pole was classified into two types: an anterior and a posterior. The length of the patellar tendon was measured from the tibial tuberosity to the inferior patellar pole. The pointed type was seen in 57% of legs, the intermediate type in 21%, and the blunt type in 22%. Twenty‐one legs were the pointed type, as well as the anterior type. The patellar tendon was significantly shorter with the posterior type than with the anterior type. The blunt type also had a significantly shorter patellar tendon than the pointed type. In legs that were both the pointed type and the anterior type, the inferior patellar pole and the proximal posterior surface of the patellar tendon impinged during knee flexion due to the posterior tilt of the patella, suggesting the possibility that this may induce damage. With the posterior type and blunt type, on the other hand, the possibility of strong tensile stress on the tendon fibers of the posterior facet of the inferior patellar pole was suggested.