bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Farmers' perceptions of health in the Riverland region of South Australia: ‘If it's broke, fix it'
Authors: Rawolle Tessa A. , Sadauskas David , van Kessel Gisela , Dollman James
Published: January 2016

Objective

To explore perceptions of health among South Australian farmers.

Design

Descriptive qualitative study, using semi‐structured interviews.

Setting

Two rural towns in the Riverland region of South Australia.

Participants

Fifteen adults involved in farming within the Riverland region of South Australia, from a variety of farming industries; age range 23–70 years old; 53% male, 47% female.

Main outcome measures

Perceptions and definitions of health.

Results

Participants described an ecological understanding of health across individual, farm, and community domains. Participants perceived health as being able to function and complete farm work. Participants reported that farm work helped to maintain fitness, but the multiple stress and hazards associated with farming had a significant influence on health. Participants described how health was influenced by community activities and social support from friends and families. Women were reported to take a lead role in health.

Conclusions

Health providers can frame interventions to resonate with the perceptions of health held by people, shaped and formed by the context of farming. Further research is needed to explore farmers' perceptions of health in different locations, from different industries and from a range of age groups.
Electrolyte composition of retro‐oil fluid and silicone oil‐related visual loss
Authors: Scheerlinck Laura M. E. , Kuiper Jonas J. W. , Liem Albert T. A. , Schellekens Peter A. W. J. F. , van Leeuwen Redmer
Published: January 2016

Purpose

Up to one‐third of patients with intra‐ocular silicone oil (SO) tamponade for complex macula‐on retinal detachment may experience an unexplained visual loss during or after SO tamponade. Although the underlying mechanism is unknown, previous studies suggested that accumulation of retinal potassium could be involved. Hence, this study tested the hypothesis that intra‐ocular potassium levels are elevated during SO tamponade.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was carried out from 13 October 2013 through 5 March 2015. Potassium, sodium, magnesium, chloride, calcium, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and glucose levels were measured in retro‐oil fluid and paired serum from 16 patients undergoing oil removal, including two patients with SO‐related visual loss (SORVL). Vitreous humour and paired serum from 27 patients with macular hole (n = 19) or floaters (n = 8) served as controls.

Results

Median potassium levels in retro‐oil fluid and vitreous humour were similar. Magnesium and chloride levels were lower in retro‐oil fluid compared with vitreous humour (p < 0.01) and LDH levels were elevated in retro‐oil fluid (p < 0.0001). One of the two patients with SORVL revealed abnormal high potassium and magnesium levels. The other patient had normal levels.

Conclusion

Potassium levels are not increased in retro‐oil fluid during SO tamponade, making the ‘potassium accumulation’ hypothesis unlikely. The disturbance in magnesium concentration during SO tamponade warrants further investigation.
Evidence against ZNF469 being causative for keratoconus in Polish patients
Authors: Karolak Justyna A. , Gambin Tomasz , Rydzanicz Malgorzata , Szaflik Jacek P. , Polakowski Piotr , Frajdenberg Agata , Mrugacz Malgorzata , Podfigurna‐Musielak Monika , Stankiewicz Pawel , Gajecka Marzena
Published: January 2016

Purpose

Keratoconus (KTCN) is a degenerative disorder characterized by stromal thinning and protrusion of the cornea, resulting in severe impairment of visual function. A recent study proposed that rare heterozygous mutations in ZNF469 determine KTCN aetiology.

Methods

To investigate the contribution of ZNF469 to KTCN, we Sanger sequenced ZNF469 in 42 unrelated Polish patients with KTCN and 49 Polish individuals with high myopia (HM) and compared the results with whole‐exome sequencing (WES) data performed in 268 Polish individuals without ocular abnormalities.

Results

The average number of ZNF469 non‐synonymous variants was 16.31 and 16.0 for individuals with KTCN and HM, respectively (p = 0.3724). All identified variants were previously reported. Alternative allele frequency (AAF) was determined based on the WES results. Among missense variants, only one (rs528085780) has AAF ≤ 0.001 and was identified in one patient with sporadic KTCN. However, the resulting Arg1864Lys substitution was not predicted to be deleterious.

Conclusion

In summary, we have not found a significant enrichment of sequence variants in ZNF469 in Polish patients with KTCN. High prevalence of ZNF469 variants identified in our KTCN group is typical for a common genetic variation observed in general population. Our findings indicate that variation in ZNF469 is not responsible for KTCN and other genetic variants are involved in the development and progression of this disease in Polish patients.
A window to beyond the orbit: the value of optical coherence tomography in non‐ocular disease
Authors: Cameron James R. , Tatham Andrew J.
Published: January 2016

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging of the eye has become an essential tool for the ophthalmologist, aiding diagnosis and assisting with treatment decisions, in many ocular diseases. However, there is an evolving role for OCT in informing on non‐ocular diseases, which ophthalmologists should be aware of. The purpose of this review was to examine recent evidence for the role of ocular OCT imaging to evaluate disease beyond the orbit and to discuss possible opportunities and challenges arising from this, from the perspective of the ophthalmologist.
Comparing the short‐term outcomes of laparoscopic distal gastrectomy with D1+ and D2 lymph node dissection for gastric cancer
Authors: Goto Hironobu , Yasuda Takashi , Oshikiri Taro , Kanaji Shingo , Kawasaki Kentaro , Imanishi Tatsuya , Oyama Masato , Kakinoki Keitaro , Ohara Tadayuki , Sendo Hiroyoshi , Fujino Yasuhiro , Tominaga Masahiro , Kakeji Yoshihiro
Published: January 2016

Introduction

Laparoscopic distal gastrectomy (LDG) with D1+ lymph node dissection (LND) for early gastric cancer has been widely accepted. However, LDG with D2 LND for advanced gastric cancer remains in limited use. The aim of this retrospective study was to clarify the safety of LDG with D2 LND for gastric cancer.

Methods

From January 2010 to September 2014, 296 patients underwent LDG; those who received D1+ LND (n = 230) or D2 LND (n = 66) were included in this study. The clinicopathological characteristics and short‐term outcomes of both groups were investigated and compared.

Results

There were no significant differences in the incidence of postoperative complications between the two groups. However, the frequency of infectious intra‐abdominal complications was higher in the D2 LND group than in the D1+ LND group. Additionally, a lower risk of infectious intra‐abdominal complications was seen with certified than with uncertified operators.

Conclusion

The evaluation of short‐term outcomes demonstrated that LDG with D2 LND is generally feasible. However, the risk of infectious intra‐abdominal complications is higher with D2 LND than with D1+ LND. Also, D2 LND should be performed by trained operators.
Effects of glutathione on sperm quality during liquid storage in boars
Authors: Zhang Xiao‐Gang , Liu Qi. , Wang Li‐Qiang , Yang Gong‐She , Hu Jian‐Hong
Published: January 2016

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different concentrations of glutathione in Modena on boar sperm quality during liquid storage at 17°C. Boar semen samples were collected and diluted with Modena containing different concentrations (0, 1, 5, 10, 15 mmol/L) of glutathione. Sperm motility, effective survival period, plasma membrane integrity, acrosome integrity, total antioxidant capacity (T‐AOC) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) content and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) content were measured and analyzed. The results showed that Modena supplemented with 1, 5 and 10 mmol/L glutathione improved sperm motility, effective survival period, plasma membrane integrity and T‐AOC, and decreased MDA content and H2O2 content. Meanwhile, the semen sample diluted with Modena containing 1 mmol/L glutathione achieved optimum effect, and effective survival period was 6.1 days. After 5 days preservation, sperm motility, plasma membrane integrity and T‐AOC of the group treated with 1 mmol/L glutathione were all higher than that of other groups. Meanwhile, MDA content and H2O2 content were lower than that of other groups. In conclusion, Modena supplemented with glutathione decreased the oxidative stress and improved the quality of boar semen during liquid storage at 17°C, and 1 mmol/L concentration was the optimum concentration. © 2016 Japanese Society of Animal Science
The influence of crossbreeding on collagen solubility and tenderness of Infraspinatus and Semimembranosus muscles of semi‐intensively reared young bulls
Authors: Modzelewska‐Kapituła Monika , Nogalski Zenon , Kwiatkowska Aleksandra
Published: January 2016

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of crossbreeding on collagen content and solubility, shear force (WBSF) and the eating quality of Infraspinatus (INF) and Semimembranosus (SM) muscles of young bulls and the relationships between collagen content and solubility, shear force and the eating quality of beef. The experimental material comprised muscles of crossbred young bulls (about 600 days old) of Polish Holstein‐Friesian (PHF) × Limousine (LM) (n = 10), PHF × Charolaise (CH) (n = 9), PHF × Hereford (HER) (n = 9) breeds. The crossbreeding influenced WBSF, aroma and taste, total, water‐soluble, acid‐soluble, total soluble and insoluble collagen content, as well as the acid‐soluble, total soluble and insoluble collagen proportions. WBSF was significantly negatively correlated with sensorial tenderness and water‐soluble collagen content. The eating quality of beef obtained from different crossbreds was similar; however, the meat from PHF × LM and PHF × HER bulls had lower WBSF values than PHF × CH bulls. © 2016 Japanese Society of Animal Science
Acute Methanol Poisoning: Prevalence and Predisposing Factors of Haemorrhagic and Non‐Haemorrhagic Brain Lesions
Authors: Zakharov Sergey , Kotikova Katerina , Vaneckova Manuela , Seidl Zdenek , Nurieva Olga , Navratil Tomas , Caganova Blazena , Pelclova Daniela
Published: January 2016

The purpose was to study the prevalence and predisposing factors of brain lesions in survivors of acute methanol poisoning. Clinical data on 106 patients with methanol poisoning were collected during the Czech mass poisoning outbreak. Of 83 survivors, in 46 (55%) patients, follow‐up examinations including magnetic resonance imaging of brain (MR) were performed 3–8 and 24–28 months after discharge from the hospital. Of 46 patients with a median age of 49 (interquartile range, 35–57) years, 24 (52%) patients had a total of 40 abnormal brain findings with haemorrhagic lesions detected in 15 (33%) and non‐haemorrhagic lesions found in 9 (19%) patients. The patients with haemorrhagic brain lesions were more acidemic (lower arterial blood pH, higher base deficit) and had higher glycaemia and lactacidaemia on admission than those without haemorrhages (all p < 0.05). Thirteen of 32 (41%) of patients with systemic anticoagulation and 2 of 14 (14%) of patients without it had haemorrhagic lesions (p = 0.080). Bleeding complications during the treatment occurred in 4 of 15 (27%) patients, and 5 of 15 (33%) patients had conditions predisposing to haemorrhage in the group with haemorrhagic lesions. In three cases with a series of computer tomography (CT)/MR performed during hospitalization, the necrotic lesions in the brain remained non‐haemorrhagic during hospitalization and haemorrhagic lesions were detected on the follow‐up MR examinations only. No association between brain haemorrhages and systemic anticoagulation during dialysis was found: brain haemorrhages might occur in severely poisoned patients treated without systemic anticoagulation, whereas treatment with high doses of heparin might not lead to brain haemorrhages.
Identification of A3 adenosine receptor agonists as novel non‐narcotic analgesics
Authors: Janes K , Symons‐Liguori AM , Jacobson K A , Salvemini D
Published: January 2016

Chronic pain negatively impacts the quality of life in a variety of patient populations. The current therapeutic repertoire is inadequate in managing patient pain and warrants the development of new therapeutics. Adenosine and its four cognate receptors (A1, A2A, A2B and A3) have important roles in physiological and pathophysiological states, including chronic pain. Preclinical and clinical studies have revealed that while adenosine and agonists of the A1 and A2A receptors have antinociceptive properties, their therapeutic utility is limited by adverse cardiovascular side effects. In contrast, our understanding of the A3 receptor is only in its infancy, but exciting preclinical observations of A3 receptor antinociception, which have been bolstered by clinical trials of A3 receptor agonists in other disease states, suggest pain relief without cardiovascular side effects and with sufficient tolerability. Our goal herein is to briefly discuss adenosine and its receptors in the context of pathological pain and to consider the current data regarding A3 receptor‐mediated antinociception. We will highlight recent findings regarding the impact of the A3 receptor on pain pathways and examine the current state of selective A3 receptor agonists used for these studies. The adenosine‐to‐A3 receptor pathway represents an important endogenous system that can be targeted to provide safe, effective pain relief from chronic pain.
Gelatin‐coated Gold Nanoparticles as Carriers of FLT3 Inhibitors for Acute Myeloid Leukemia Treatment
Authors: Suarasan Sorina , Simon Timea , Boca Sanda , Tomuleasa Ciprian , Astilean Simion
Published: January 2016

This study presents the design of a gold nanoparticle (AuNPs)—drug system with improved efficiency for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. The system is based on four different FLT3 inhibitors, namely midostaurin, sorafenib, lestaurtinib, and quizartinib, which were independently loaded onto gelatin‐coated gold nanoparticles. Detailed investigation of the physicochemical properties of the formed complexes lead to the selection of quizartinib—loaded AuNPs for the in vitro evaluation of the biological effects of the formed complex against OCI‐AML3 acute myeloid leukemia cells. Viability tests by MTT demonstrated that the proposed drug complex has improved efficacy when compared with the drug alone. The obtained results constitute a premise for further in vivo investigation of such drug vehicles based on AuNPs. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that investigates the delivery of the above‐mentioned FLT3 inhibitors via gelatin‐coated gold nanoparticles.
Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Scutellarein Derivatives Based on Scutellarin Metabolic Mechanism In Vivo
Authors: Dong Ze‐Xi , Shi Zhi‐Hao , Li Nian‐Guang , Zhang Wei , Gu Ting , Zhang Peng‐Xuan , Wu Wen‐Yu , Tang Yu‐Ping , Fang Fang , Xue Xin , Li He‐Min , Cheng Hai‐Bo , Yang Jian‐Ping , Duan Jin‐Ao
Published: January 2016

Three series of scutellarein derivatives have been designed and synthesized based on metabolic mechanism of scutellarin (1) in vivo. Their thrombin inhibition activities were tested through the analyzation of prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), thrombin time (TT), and fibrinogen (FIB). The antioxidant activities of these target products were assessed by 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) assay and the ability to protect PC12 cells against H2O2‐induced cytotoxicity, and their solubilities were evaluated by ultraviolet (UV) spectrophotometer. The results showed that the two isopropyl groups substituted derivative (18c) demonstrated stronger anticoagulant activity, better water solubility, and good antioxidant activity compared with scutellarein (2), which warrants further development of 18c as a promising agent for ischemic cerebrovascular disease treatment.
A Dual Non‐ATP Analogue Inhibitor of Aurora Kinases A and B, Derived from Resorcinol with a Mixed Mode of Inhibition
Authors: Karthigeyan Dhanasekaran , Surabhi Sudhevan , Mizar Pushpak , Soumik Siddhanta , Banerjee Amrita , Sinha Sarmistha Halder , Dasgupta Dipak , Narayana Chandrabhas , Kundu Tapas K.
Published: January 2016

Aurora kinases are the most commonly targeted mitotic kinases in the intervention of cancer progression. Here, we report a resorcinol derivative, 5‐methyl‐4‐(2‐thiazolylazo) resorcinol (PTK66), a dual inhibitor of Aurora A and Aurora B kinases. PTK66 is a surface binding non‐ATP analogue inhibitor that shows a mixed pattern of inhibition against both of Aurora A and B kinases. The in vitro IC50 is approximately 47 and 40 μm for Aurora A and Aurora B kinases, respectively. In cellular systems, PTK66 exhibits a substantially low cytotoxicity at micromolar concentrations but it can induce aneuploidy under similar dosages as a consequence of Aurora kinase inhibition. This result was corroborated by a drop in the histone H3 (S10) phosphorylation level detected via Western blot analysis using three different cell types. Altogether, our findings indicate that the ligand containing resorcinol backbone is one of the novel scaffolds targeting the Aurora family of kinases, which could be a target for antineoplastic drug development.
Histopathological comparison of the onset of peri‐implantitis and periodontitis in rats
Authors: Takamori Yuzo , Atsuta Ikiru , Nakamura Hirotaka , Sawase Takashi , Koyano Kiyoshi , Hara Yoshitaka
Published: January 2016

Background and objective

There are a few experimental models that clearly describe the pathological differences in tissue destruction between periodontitis and peri‐implantitis. We recently reported that the formation of immune complexes accelerates site‐specific loss of attachment and alveolar bone resorption when an antigen is topically applied in the gingival sulcus of an immunized rat. We applied this model to the peri‐implant tissues and compared peri‐implant destruction to periodontitis without using a ligature.

Material and methods

Twenty‐five rats were used in this study and were divided into five groups. Implantation was performed immediately after extraction of right first molars in rats. The left first molars were left untreated to be examined as natural teeth. The immunized group consisted of rats that had received intraperitoneal lipopolysaccharide (LPS), whereas the nonimmunized group received only phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS). The untreated baseline group received only implantation. After intraperitoneal booster injection, half of each group received topical application of LPS in the palatal gingival sulcus daily for 3 days. The other half of the groups received PBS. Histopathological and histometrical findings were observed with hematoxylin and eosin staining, collagen fibers were observed with Azan staining, and formation of immune complexes was immunohistologically evaluated by C1qB expression.

Result

Peri‐implant tissue destruction was greater in the immunized and LPS‐applied groups than in the other groups. No periodontal destruction was observed. Formation of immune complexes was observed in the junctional epithelium and adjacent connective tissue in the immunized groups.

Conclusion

Antigen‐induced peri‐implant tissue destruction occurs faster than periodontal tissue destruction.
miR‐142‐3p inhibits cancer cell proliferation by targeting CDC25C
Authors: Cao Xu‐Chen , Yu Yue , Hou Li‐Kun , Sun Xiao‐Hu , Ge Jie , Zhang Bin , Wang Xin
Published: January 2016

Objectives

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) contribute to control of cell cycle progression and are frequently deregulated in cancer. The focus of this study was to determine effects of miR‐142‐3p on the cell cycle progression and cancer cell proliferation.

Materials and methods

RT‐qPCR was performed to determine expression of miR‐142‐3p in a range of cancer cell lines and in clinical cancer specimens. To further understand its role, we restored its expression in cancer cell lines by transfection with miR‐142‐3p mimics or inhibitors. Effects of miR‐142‐3p on cell cycle progression and cell proliferation were also determined.

Results

miR‐142‐3p was down‐regulated in both cancer cell lines and cancer specimens. Its overexpression suppressed proliferation, whereas its depletion promoted it. In addition, miR‐142‐3p lead to cell cycle arrest in G2/M. Moreover, CDC25C was identified as being a target of miR‐142‐3p, ectopic expression of which reversed suppression of cell proliferation.

Conclusions

Our observations suggest that miR‐142‐3p functioned as a tumor suppressor by targeting CDC25C.
Mucinous carcinoma of the breast: a comparative study on cytohistological findings associated with neuroendocrine differentiation
Authors: Ohashi R. , Sakatani T. , Matsubara M. , Watarai Y. , Yanagihara K. , Yamashita K. , Tsuchiya S. , Takei H. , Naito Z.
Published: January 2016

Objective

Mucinous carcinoma (MCA) may show neuroendocrine differentiation (ND), but the cytological features characteristic of ND remains elusive. We compared fine needle aspiration (FNA) findings of MCA between cases with high and low degrees of ND.

Methods

Histological sections of 37 MCA cases were immunohistochemically evaluated for expression of chromogranin A and synaptophysin, and were graded as 0 to 3+ degrees of ND. They were divided into low ND (grade 0 and 1+) and high ND (grade 2+ and 3+) groups. Pre‐operative FNA samples of each group were assessed for cytological features.

Results

The mean age of the high ND group (n = 18) was higher than the low ND group (n = 19, P = 0.01). In FNA samples of the high ND group, 17 cases showed moderate to severe degrees of discohesiveness, but low ND cases mainly showed no or only mild discohesiveness (P < 0.001). Nine of the low ND cases displayed overlapped, cohesive cell clusters, whereas, in the high ND cases, the cells were arranged in a loose, flat and monolayered pattern (P = 0.045). Fourteen of the high ND cases had round nuclei, but oval nuclei were predominant in the low ND cases (P = 0.027). The nuclei were eccentrically located in 12 of the high ND cases but were centrally located in 14 of the low ND cases (P = 0.01).

Conclusions

Mucinous carcinoma with high ND may be diagnosed by the presence of discohesiveness, a flat, monolayered pattern, and round or eccentrically located nuclei. Features of ND in carcinomas in other organs, such as intracytoplasmic granules and coarse chromatin, may not be reliable cytological features of ND in MCA.
Spatial replacement of dung beetles in edge‐affected habitats: biotic homogenization or divergence in fragmented tropical forest landscapes?
Authors: Filgueiras Bruno K. C. , Tabarelli Marcelo , Leal Inara R. , Vaz‐de‐Mello Fernando Z. , Peres Carlos A. , Iannuzzi Luciana
Published: January 2016

Aim

In this study, we investigate whether anthropogenic land use and habitat fragmentation lead to a process of either homogenization (decreasing spatial replacement and increasing nestedness) or divergence (increasing spatial replacement and decreasing nestedness) of dung beetle assemblages in edge‐affected habitats.

Location

A fragmented landscape of the Atlantic forest of north‐east Brazil.

Methods

We investigate the extent to which beta diversity of dung beetle assemblages varies in edge‐affected habitats at different spatial scales (i.e. traps along an interior–exterior nonlinear gradient, within and among habitats). We compare species replacement and nestedness of dung beetle assemblages using (1) multiple dissimilarity measures accounting for compositional heterogeneity across forest (i.e. forest edges, core primary forest areas and small fragments) and matrix habitats (i.e. sugar cane plantations and pastures) and (2) distance matrices accounting for the multivariate structure of dissimilarity.

Results

(1) Each habitat supported a distinct dung beetle assemblage; (2) there was a strong influence of anthropogenic land use and fragmentation‐related effects on dung beetle β‐diversity, with species replacements increasing in edge‐affected and matrix habitats providing support for the divergence hypothesis at all spatial scales; (3) edge effects enhanced species replacement across assemblages; (4) dung beetle assemblages were not randomly distributed, with habitat type leading to a strongly nested pattern of species composition; and (5) both dung beetle replacement and nestedness were not correlated with geographic distance, whereby neighbouring sites were not necessarily more similar in their community composition.

Main conclusions

Species replacement is strongly influenced by habitat configuration and β‐diversity increases in edge‐affected habitats. Accordingly, anthropogenic land use and habitat fragmentation clearly promote community‐level taxonomic divergence in human‐modified landscapes. Landscape‐scale divergence likely results from a non‐random distribution of both forest‐dependent and disturbance‐adapted species across all habitats, which are in marked contrast in terms of suitability.
Migratory diversity predicts population declines in birds
Authors: Gilroy James J. , Gill Jennifer A. , Butchart Stuart H. M. , Jones Victoria R. , Franco Aldina M. A.
Published: January 2016

Declines in migratory species are a pressing concern worldwide, but the mechanisms underpinning these declines are not fully understood. We hypothesised that species with greater within‐population variability in migratory movements and destinations, here termed ‘migratory diversity’, might be more resilient to environmental change. To test this, we related map‐based metrics of migratory diversity to recent population trends for 340 European breeding birds. Species that occupy larger non‐breeding ranges relative to breeding, a characteristic we term ‘migratory dispersion’, were less likely to be declining than those with more restricted non‐breeding ranges. Species with partial migration strategies (i.e. overlapping breeding and non‐breeding ranges) were also less likely to be declining than full migrants or full residents, an effect that was independent of migration distance. Recent rates of advancement in Europe‐wide spring arrival date were greater for partial migrants than full migrants, suggesting that migratory diversity may also help facilitate species responses to climate change.
Non‐motor symptoms in patients with hereditary spastic paraplegia caused by SPG4 mutations
Authors: Servelhere K. R. , Faber I. , Saute J. A. M. , Moscovich M. , D'Abreu A. , Jardim L. B. , Teive H. A. G. , Lopes‐Cendes I. , Franca M. C.
Published: January 2016

Background and purpose

Non‐motor manifestations are frequently overlooked in degenerative disorders and little is known about their frequency and clinical relevance in SPG4 hereditary spastic paraplegia (SPG4‐HSP).

Methods

Thirty patients with SPG4‐HSP and 30 healthy controls answered the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Brief Pain Inventory and Beck Depression Inventory. Student's t test was used to compare groups and linear regression was used to assess correlations.

Results

Patients had higher fatigue scores than controls (31.0 ± 16.5 vs. 14.5 ± 16.0, P = 0.002) as well as pain (3.4 ± 2.7 vs. 1.0 ± 1.6, P = 0.001) and depression (12.7 ± 8.9 vs. 4.4 ± 3.8, P < 0.001, respectively). Fatigue was associated with depression and possibly with disease severity (P = 0.008 and 0.07, respectively).

Conclusions

Fatigue, pain and depression are frequent and often severe manifestations in patients with SPG4‐HSP.
Quantitation of intrathecal immunoglobulin synthesis – a new empirical formula
Authors: Auer M. , Hegen H. , Zeileis A. , Deisenhammer F.
Published: January 2016

Background and purpose

Intrathecal immunoglobulin (Ig) synthesis occurs in various chronic inflammatory neurological diseases. Different formulae have been developed for quantitative determination of Ig synthesis within the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) compartment. The hyperbolic formula of Reiber is frequently used which, however, returns a considerable number of false positive results in empirical observations.

Methods

A computerized database of more than 19 000 paired CSF and serum samples was screened for patients presumed negative for local Ig synthesis and a new formula characterizing this collective was calculated. The validity of this formula was confirmed by several validation steps.

Results

A cohort of 1173 patients with normal CSF findings was used for quantile regression. The 97.5th quantile of the formula was considered as the cut‐off curve for intrathecal Ig synthesis using different constants a and b for IgG, IgA and IgM. Compared to the Reiber formula, a lower level of false positive results was produced especially for IgM and IgA which was confirmed in a separate clinically well defined validation cohort. In 77 patients with discrepant findings between Reiber and our formula no specific diagnoses were found confirming the low diagnostic value of borderline Ig synthesis.

Conclusions

A new approximation formula was developed for determination of intrathecal Ig synthesis which produces fewer false positive results without reducing diagnostic sensitivity.
The impact of non‐motor symptoms on the quality of life of Parkinson's disease patients: a longitudinal study
Authors: Prakash K. M. , Nadkarni N. V. , Lye W.‐K. , Yong M.‐H. , Tan E.‐K.
Published: January 2016

Background and purpose

Non‐motor symptoms (NMSs) are common amongst patients with Parkinson's disease (PD); however, little is known about their influence on the health‐related quality of life (QoL) over a defined follow‐up period. The study was aimed to establish the impact of NMSs on the QoL of patients with PD over a 2‐year follow‐up period.

Method

A total of 227 newly referred PD patients were prospectively recruited between 2013 and 2014. The Non‐Motor Symptoms Scale was used to evaluate NMSs burden whilst QoL was assessed with the Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire‐39 items. Motor disabilities were assessed using the Part III (motor) Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRSm).

Results

The mean age was 64.37 (10.18) years; 59.9% were males and a majority (89.0%) were ethnic Chinese. Almost 65% were unemployed and 84.6% had attained no more than secondary level of education. In the univariate analysis, total NMSs burden, age, gender, subsequent visit, Hoehn and Yahr staging, disease duration and UPDRSm score were individually predictive of change in the Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire Summary Index score from baseline to follow‐up visit. However, in the multivariate analysis, total NMSs burden significantly predicted the QoL scores whilst motor scores did not. Specifically, NMS domains 2 (sleep/fatigue), 3 (mood/apathy) and 5 (attention/memory) were most significantly predictive of QoL change.

Conclusion

Unlike motor disabilities, NMSs burden, in particular sleep, mood and attention, have a significant impact on the QoL of PD patients over a 2‐year follow‐up period.
Morphology and distribution of ovipositor sensilla of female cotton leaf worm Spodoptera littoralis (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), and evidence for gustatory function
Authors: Seada Mervat A. , Ignell Rickard , Anderson Peter
Published: January 2016

The ovipositor of Spodoptera littoralis has many sensilla, which implies a distinct sensory function of this organ in the assessment of the egg laying substrates and placement of eggs. The ovipositor is composed of two papillae densely packed with sensilla. Scanning electron microscopy showed that there are four categories of sensilla chaetica (s. chaetica), characterized based on differences in distribution, length and morphology, distributed on each papilla: Type I with 69 ± 2.9 sensilla on each papilla (length: 29–163 μm) distributed at the base; Type II with 19 ± 1.8 sensilla (length: 287–446 μm) distributed medially; Type III with 120 ± 7.8 sensilla (length: 62–156 μm) distributed distally; and Type IV 8 ± 0.9 sensilla (length: 72–91 μm) scattered between Type III sensilla. The structure of s. chaetica Types I–III suggests a mechanosensory function, whereas electrophysiological analysis of s. chaetica Type IV showed responses from four gustatory neurons and one mechanosensory neuron. Of the chemoreceptive neurons, one responded to salt, one to the secondary compound caffeine, one to sugars, mainly sucrose and fructose, and lastly one potentially to water. Behavioral studies are needed to verify the role of these sensilla during choice of oviposition site.
Occurrence and genetics of black‐eyed migratory locusts, Locusta migratoria (Orthoptera: Acrididae)
Authors: Nishide Yudai , Tanaka Seiji
Published: January 2016

Black‐eyed Locusta migratoria appeared in albino locusts as a result of crossing between a short‐winged strain originating from Tsushima Island, Japan, and an albino strain originating from Okinawa Island. The black eye trait was recessive to the white eye trait because the crosses between black‐ and white‐eyed albino locusts produced only individuals with white eyes in the F1 generation. In the F2 generation, black‐ and white‐eyed individuals appeared in a ratio of 1:3, indicating that the black eye trait was controlled by a simple Mendelian unit. The black eye trait showed no genetic association with other traits including wing morph, adult body dimensions and classical morphometric ratios such as hind femur length / head width and forewing length / hind femur length.
Differences in prey capture in semiaquatic bugs (Heteroptera:Gerromorpha)
Authors: Ditrich Tomáš , Papáček Miroslav
Published: January 2016

Feeding behavior has been investigated several times in different semiaquatic bugs (Heteroptera:Gerromorpha), but has never been directly compared between species from lentic and lotic habitats and different families. Time required to capture prey was investigated in five gerromorphan species:Aquarius paludum,Gerris lacustris,G. odontogaster(Gerridae),Velia capraiandV. gridellii(Veliidae). This experiment used live and dead prey and intact and artificially blinded bugs. The presence of vibrational stimuli (live prey) significantly decreased latency to capture prey in all species exceptG. odontogaster. This species was the only one where visual stimuli affected the response significantly (only with dead prey). Latency to capture inVeliaspp. was significantly shorter than that in the three gerrid species. Capture efficiency differed significantly betweenGerrisandVeliaspp.; bothVeliaspecies carried out unsuccessful attack attempts less frequently than did theGerrisspecies. Prey capture was quicker in treatments with live prey and/or intact bugs. No difference in capture efficiency was found between sexes.AquariusandGerrisspecies from predominantly lentic habitats needed more time to capture prey than didVeliaspecies, which live mostly in streams. This difference in feeding behavior can probably allow coexistence of gerrids and veliids at sites where their occurrence overlaps.
Immune checkpoint blockade in lymphoid malignancies
Authors: Thanarajasingam Gita , Thanarajasingam Uma , Ansell Stephen M.
Published: January 2016

Malignant cells may subvert and escape endogenous host immune surveillance by up‐regulation of immune inhibitory signals known as immune checkpoints. These checkpoints are important therapeutic targets, and antibodies that block checkpoint signaling have shown remarkable efficacy in some solid tumors as well as in some refractory hematologic malignancies. In hematologic cancers, the mechanism of these checkpoints is complex, as the tumor and immune system are one and the same. In this review, we evaluate the biology of checkpoint inhibition, review the current data on its efficacy in lymphoid tumors, and explore uncertainties in the field, including those involving the precise mechanisms of action, the appropriate timing of therapy, and the differences in response rate between lymphoid tumor types.
Success of a large riverine cyprinid smallmouth yellowfish Labeobarbus aeneus in a southern African impoundment
Authors: Ellender B. R. , Weyl O. L. F. , Winker H.
Published: January 2016

Rheophilic cyprinids have been detrimentally affected by impoundments, which alter flow regimes, the physical environment and block migration routes. Initial evidence for a southern African cyprinid, smallmouth yellowfish Labeobarbus aeneus, suggested that dependence on riverine spawning areas limits their success within the turbid impoundments of the Orange River system. However, well‐established impoundment populations have since been documented. A comprehensive assessment of L. aeneus biology and population dynamics was undertaken to understand the drivers of successful colonisation in Lake Gariep, South Africa's largest impoundment. Labeobarbus aeneus exhibited slow growth, delayed maturity and longevity, most likely resulting in slow population growth rates. Highest adult and juvenile abundances were observed >100 km from the inflowing Orange River during the peak and post‐spawning seasons, respectively, suggesting that the species displays high ecological plasticity and may not be dependent on inflowing rivers for spawning. Meta‐analyses of life history parameters indicated consistency among riverine and lacustrine populations. Although experiencing an initial lag phase, L. aeneus has successfully adapted to the lacustrine environment.
Surface Antigen Profiling of Helicobacter pylori‐Infected and ‐Uninfected Gastric Cancer Cells Using Antibody Microarray
Authors: Sukri Asif , Hanafiah Alfizah , Kosai Nik Ritza , Mohamed Taher Mustafa , Mohamed Rose Isa
Published: January 2016

Background

Comprehensive immunophenotyping cluster of differentiation (CD) antigens in gastric adenocarcinoma, specifically between Helicobacter pylori‐infected and ‐uninfected gastric cancer patients by using DotScan™ antibody microarray has not been conducted. Current immunophenotyping techniques include flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry are limited to the use of few antibodies for parallel examination. We used DotScan™ antibody microarray consisting 144 CD antibodies to determine the distribution of CD antigens in gastric adenocarcinoma cells and to elucidate the effect of H. pylori infection toward CD antigen expression in gastric cancer.

Methods

Mixed leukocytes population derived from gastric adenocarcinoma patients were immunophenotyped using DotScan™ antibody microarray. AGS cells were infected with H. pylori strains and cells were captured on DotScan™ slides.

Results

Cluster of differentiation antigens involved in perpetuating the tolerance of immune cells to tumor cells was upregulated in gastric adenocarcinoma cells compared to normal cells. CD279 which is essential in T cells apoptosis was found to be upregulated in normal cells. Remarkably, H. pylori‐infected gastric cancer patients exhibited upregulated expression of CD27 that important in maintenance of T cells. Infection of cagA+ H. pylori with AGS cells increased CD antigens expression which involved in cancer stem cell while cagA− H. pylori polarized AGS cells to express immune‐regulatory CD antigens. Increased CD antigens expression in AGS cells infected with cagA+ H. pylori were also detected in H. pylori‐infected gastric cancer patients.

Conclusion

This study suggests the tolerance of immune system toward tumor cells in gastric cancer and distinct mechanisms of immune responses exploited by different H. pylori strains.
Rifabutin Containing Triple Therapy and Rifabutin with Bismuth Containing Quadruple Therapy for Third‐Line Treatment of Helicobacter pylori Infection: Two Pilot Studies
Authors: Ciccaglione Antonio Francesco , Tavani Roberta , Grossi Laurino , Cellini Luigina , Manzoli Lamberto , Marzio Leonardo
Published: January 2016

Aim

To evaluate the therapeutic gain of the addition of bismuth to a rifabutin containing triple therapy with amoxicillin and pantoprazole at standard dosages for the treatment of third‐line Helicobacter pylori infection after a preliminary susceptibility test.

Methods

Two separate groups of patients in two pilot studies which were carried out simultaneously. One group was treated with rifabutin 150 mg b.i.d., pantoprazole 20 mg b.i.d., and amoxicillin 1 g b.i.d. for 10 days and the other group with rifabutin 150 mg b.i.d., pantoprazole 20 mg b.i.d., amoxicillin 1 g b.i.d., and bismuth subcitrate 240 mg b.i.d. for 10 days. All patients underwent to culture and susceptibility testing prior to their inclusion in the study. A successful outcome was confirmed with an Urea Breath test performed 8 weeks after the end of treatment. A blood cell count was performed for all patients at the start and after 5 days of treatment since rifabutin has been shown to inhibit the growth of leucocytes.

Results

Twenty‐nine patients were recruited in the pantoprazole, amoxicillin, rifabutin group and 30 in the pantoprazole, amoxicillin, rifabutin, and bismuth subcitrate group. All patients had a positive H. pylori culture and the susceptibility test used showed H. pylori sensitivity to rifabutin and amoxicillin. H. pylori eradication during follow‐up was 18/27 (66.7%, 95% CI: 47.7–85.7%) in the pantoprazole, amoxicillin, rifabutin group and 28/29 (96.6%, 95% CI: 89.5–100.0%) in the pantoprazole, amoxicillin, rifabutin, and bismuth subcitrate group. Both treatments were well‐tolerated with no reported side effects. Blood cell count remained normal in all patients.

Conclusion

The addition of bismuth subcitrate to a triple therapy that includes proton pump inhibitors, amoxicillin, and rifabutin in patients who are treated for the third time for H. pylori infection resulted in a 30% therapeutic gain.
Environmental activism and consumers’ perceived responsibility
Authors: Paço Arminda , Gouveia Rodrigues Ricardo
Published: January 2016

The growing importance of environmentalism trends have led to a significant rise in environmentally friendly consumers’ attitudes and behaviours who thereby demonstrate their collective strength through both their individual buying decisions and their involvement in social movements, as is the case of the environmental activism. This activism extends to include a set of environmental behaviours spanning environmental group membership, involvement in political action and/or in environmental organisations, influencing policy or management decisions and engaging in pro‐environmental protection behaviours. The more citizens become aware of their own role in the problem of environmental degradation, the more willing they prove to become part of the solution. High levels of individual Perceived Environmental Responsibility (PER) may foster the more environmentally friendly attitudes and behaviours that lead to Environmental Activism (EA). Thus, the purpose of this research is precisely to discuss the relationship between PER and EA, and whether gender proves a significant factor in predicting PER and EA. For a sample of Portuguese consumers, who consented to participating in the research, we studied the predisposition towards EA by applying a questionnaire administered in the form of a personal interview. The results indicate that despite the perceived environmental responsibility observed, individuals present only low levels of environmental activism and civic participation in environmental causes. However, for the small percentage of individuals belonging to an environmental organisation, we do verify that EA ran higher among those reporting Environmental Group Membership (EGM). We additionally observe how PER might prove a predictor of EA even though the model applied to test this relationship only explained a small proportion of the variance in EA levels and hence requiring further research into the factors influencing EA. As regard gender, while women display similar levels of EA to men, they also report significantly higher PER than men.
Community care for adults with severe mental disorders in rural China: A case study
Authors: Li Ying , Wing‐tak Ernest Chui
Published: January 2016

In China, family care is the dominant form of care for people with mental disorders. Since 2004, the government has been developing a community‐care model that places more responsibility on community organisations and the local governments at the provincial, municipal and county levels for the provision of formal care. As a large number of people with severe mental disorders live in rural China, this case study was conducted in a rural county in order to examine the development of community care. It was found that, although family care remains dominant, families’ need for formal care is increasing. Community services have improved, but their development is constrained by several contextual and micro factors. In this study, it is argued that the community‐care model introduces a process of reconfiguration of the relative responsibility for care among the family, social organisations and the government, but progress depends on further administrative and fiscal reforms.
Ecological Themes in Evangelii Gaudium, Together towards Life, and The Cape Town Commitment for Fraternity with God's Creation
Authors: Choi Kwang Sun
Published: January 2016

The main purpose of this study is to explore the Christian response to the current ecological crisis by examining three statements using a method of theological reflection: Evangelii Gaudium (EG), Together towards Life (TTL), and The Cape Town Commitment (CTC). The three statements request Christians’ care for creation, which is now threatened. In contemplating the ecological crisis, the three statements call attention to the widespread abuse and destruction of the Earth due to an economic system that accelerates consumerism and human greed. To overcome this ecological crisis, Pope Francis recalls the joy of the gospel overflowing from the Trinity; TTL and CTC echo this, drawing their faith tradition from the Trinity with widening understanding of God who is creator, redeemer, and sustainer. The three statements also identify the rest of creation as the new poor in order to recall that the suffering of the poor and the suffering of the earth are one, inseparable from the suffering of Jesus. Finally, this study examines the three statements in relation to the spirituality of ecological themes. In particular, EG and TTL discern a false spirituality that is a form of individualism and a theology of prosperity, but suggest a spirituality that is referred to as either transformative spirituality or mystical fraternity. The study concludes that it is time to turn to the cosmological dimension of spirituality and theology for fraternity with God's creation and the future of the earth community.