bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rev7, the regulatory subunit of Polζ, undergoes UV‐induced and Cul4‐dependent degradation
Authors: Bhat Audesh , Qin Zhoushuai , Wang Guifen , Chen Wangyang , Xiao Wei
Published: April 2017

In eukaryotic cells, Rev7 interacts with Rev3 and functions as a regulatory subunit of Polζ, a translesion DNA synthesis (TLS) polymerase. In addition to its role in TLS, mammalian Rev7, also known as Mad2B/Mad2L2, participates in multiple cellular activities including cell cycle progression and double‐strand break repair through its interaction with several proteins. Here we show that in mammalian cells, Rev7 undergoes ubiquitin/proteasome‐mediated degradation upon UV irradiation in a time‐dependent manner. We identified the Rev7 N‐terminal destruction box as the degron and Cul4A/B as putative E3 ligases in this process. We also show that the nucleotide excision repair (NER) pathway protein HR23B physically interacts and colocalizes with Rev7 in the nuclear foci after UV irradiation and protects Rev7 from accelerated degradation. Furthermore, a similar Rev7 degradation profile was observed in cells treated with the UV‐mimetic agent 4‐nitroquinoline 1‐oxide but not with cisplatin or camptothecin, suggesting a role of the NER pathway protein(s) in UV‐induced Rev7 degradation. These data and the observation that cells deficient in Rev7 are sensitized to UV irradiation while excessive Rev7 protects cells from UV‐induced DNA damage provide a new insight into the potential interplay between TLS and NER.
Factors Driving the Population Growth and Decline of Portuguese Cities
Authors: Barreira Ana Paula , S. Ramalho Joaquim J. , Panagopoulos Thomas , Guimarães Maria Helena
Published: April 2017

Despite the worldwide trend of urbanisation, data reveal that some cities are growing whereas others are losing inhabitants. To assess such dynamics in Portuguese cities, demographic, employment, housing, and climate variables were analysed as possible drivers of population change for the period 1991–2011. Panel data models show that higher shares of employment in the secondary and tertiary sectors, higher maximum temperatures, and a higher proportion of middle‐aged vacant houses act as pull factors attracting inhabitants, whereas a higher unemployment rate is a push factor for cities.
Serological biomarkers detect active joint destruction and inflammation in patients with haemophilic arthropathy
Authors: Hua B. , Olsen E. H. N. , Sun S. , Gudme C. N. , Wang L. , Vandahl B. , Roepstorff K. , Kjelgaard‐Hansen M. , Sørensen B. B. , Zhao Y. , Karsdal M. A. , Manon‐Jensen T.
Published: April 2017

Introduction

Progressive arthropathy caused by recurrent joint bleeds is a severe complication in haemophilia.

Aim

We investigated whether biomarkers of cartilage and bone degradation, and inflammation were altered in haemophilia patients and whether these biomarkers could identify haemophilia patients with arthropathy.

Methods

Serum from 35 haemophilia patients with varying degrees of arthropathy and 43 age‐ and gender‐matched control subjects were analysed. Biomarkers of cartilage degradation (C2M, COMP, CTX‐II, ADAMTS5), cartilage formation (PRO‐C2), bone formation (PINP), bone resorption (CTX‐I) and inflammation (hsCRP, CRPM) were measured by ELISA. Arthropathy was assessed by radiological evaluation (Pettersson score) and physical examination (Gilbert score).

Results

In patients with haemophilia, cartilage degradation, measured by C2M, CTX‐II and COMP, was increased by 25% (P < 0.05) compared with control subjects. Levels of the cartilage degradation enzyme, ADAMTS5, were 10% lower in haemophilia patients (P < 0.05). Bone formation (PINP) was reduced by 25% (P < 0.05) in haemophilia patients, whereas bone resorption (CTX‐I) was increased by 30% (P < 0.001). Acute inflammation (hsCRP) was increased by 50% (P < 0.01), whereas chronic inflammation (CRPM) was decreased by 25% (P < 0.0001). The hsCRP/CRPM ratio was 60% higher (P < 0.001) in haemophilia patients relative to control subjects. A biomarker panel combining C2M, CRPM, and ADAMTS5 could distinguish haemophilia patients from control subjects with 85.3% accuracy (P < 0.0001). We found no strong correlation between biomarkers and radiological and physical examination of the joint.

Conclusion

Biomarkers detect increased cartilage and bone degradation, and altered inflammatory activity in haemophilia patients with arthropathy. These biomarkers could potentially be used to identify patients with progressing joint disease.
Discrepancies between the one‐stage clotting assay and the chromogenic assay in haemophilia B
Authors: Kihlberg K. , Strandberg K. , Rosén S. , Ljung R. , Astermark J.
Published: April 2017

Introduction

Assay discrepancy in factor VIII activity between the one‐stage and the chromogenic assays has been described in approximately one third of patients with non‐severe haemophilia A. Whether assay discrepancy may also occur in patients with haemophilia B remains unknown.

Aim

This study compared the results from the one‐stage and the chromogenic assays in patients with haemophilia B.

Methods

Plasma samples from patients with haemophilia B attending the haemophilia centre in Malmö, Sweden, were collected after a wash‐out period of more than 7 days and analysed with both assays.

Results

Fifty samples from 36 patients were analysed. No discrepancy was found in patients with severe haemophilia B. Among the 44 plasma samples from patients with non‐severe disease, 15 showed a twofold or greater difference between the results of the two methods, with the chromogenic method presenting the higher value (mean FIX:Cone‐stage 0.02 vs. FIX:Cchromo 0.06 IU mL−1). Of these 15 samples, 14 were from seven individuals from five families with the same mutated amino acid at the N‐terminal cleaving site of the activation peptide (FIX: c.572G>A; p.Arg191His or FIX: c.571C>T; p.Arg191Cys). These mutations were not observed in any patients with non‐discrepant results. The reported bleeding frequency for these patients was low and indicative of a mild bleeding phenotype.

Conclusion

Our findings imply that assay discrepancy occurs for factor IX activity and that both type of assays are needed for a correct diagnosis and classification of haemophilia B. The underlying mechanism by which the mutation influences the assays remains to be determined.
Developing social marketed individual preconception care consultations: Which consumer preferences should it meet?
Authors: van Voorst Sabine F. , ten Kate Chantal A. , de Jong‐Potjer Lieke C. , Steegers Eric A. P. , Denktaş Semiha
Published: April 2017

Aims

Preconception care (PCC) is care that aims to improve the health of offspring by addressing risk factors in the pre‐pregnancy period. Consultations are recognized as a method to promote perinatal health. However, prospective parents underutilize PCC services. Uptake can improve if delivery approaches satisfy consumer preferences. Aim of this study was to identify preferences of women (consumers) as a first step to social marketed individual PCC consultations.

Methods

In depth, semi‐structured interviews were performed to identify women's views regarding the four components of the social marketing model: product (individual PCC consultation), place (setting), promotion (how women are made aware of the product) and price (costs). Participants were recruited from general practices and a midwife's practice. Content analysis was performed by systematic coding with NVIVO software.

Results

The 39 participants reflected a multiethnic intermediately educated population. Product: Many participants had little knowledge of the need and the benefits of the product. Regarding the content of PCC, they wish to address fertility concerns and social aspects of parenthood. PCC was seen as an informing and coaching service with a predominant role for health‐care professionals. Place: the general practitioner and midwife setting was the most mentioned setting. Promotion: A professional led promotion approach was preferred. Price: Introduction of a fee for PCC consultations will make people reconsider their need for a consultation and could exclude vulnerable patients from utilization.

Conclusion

This study provides consumer orientated data to design a social marketed delivery approach for individual PCC consultations.
Effect of ultrasonic activation on the reduction of bacteria and endotoxins in root canals: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Nakamura V. C. , Pinheiro E. T. , Prado L. C. , Silveira A. C. , Carvalho A. P. L. , Mayer M. P. A. , Gavini G.
Published: April 2017

Aim

This randomized clinical trial aimed to compare the effectiveness of ultrasonic activation with that of nonactivated irrigation on the removal of bacteria and endotoxin from root canals.

Methodology

Fifty patients with necrotic pulps and asymptomatic apical periodontitis were randomly allocated into two groups according to the final irrigation protocol after root canal preparation: Group UI – ultrasonic irrigation (n = 25) and Group NI – needle irrigation (n = 25). The root canals were medicated with calcium hydroxide for 14 days. Microbiological sampling was performed before (S1) and after the root canal preparation (S2), after the irrigation protocols (S3) and after the removal of the intracanal medication (S4). Total bacteria counts were determined by qPCR and the endotoxin levels by the limulus amebocyte lysate assay. Intragroup analyses were performed using the Wilcoxon test for related samples, whereas intergroup analyses were performed using the Mann–Whitney U‐test (P < 0.05).

Results

All S1 samples were positive for bacteria, with median numbers of 1.49 × 106 and 8.55 × 105 bacterial cells for the UI and NI groups, respectively. This number significantly decreased in S2 samples (UI: 1.41 × 104; NI: 3.53 × 104; both with P < 0.001). After final irrigation protocols, there was a significant decrease in bacterial load from S2 to S3 samples in both groups (UI: 4.29 × 103; NI: 1.08 × 104; P < 0.01). Intergroup analysis revealed a significant difference between irrigation methods regarding bacterial counts in S3 samples (P < 0.05). In contrast, no significant differences were observed between groups for endotoxin levels (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Ultrasonic activation was more effective than nonactivated irrigation for reducing the number of bacteria but not the endotoxin levels in root canals of teeth with apical periodontitis.
Comparison of cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and immunological inflammatory biomarker activity of several endodontic sealers against immortalized human pulp cells
Authors: Martinho F. C. , Camargo S. E. A. , Fernandes A. M. M. , Campos M. S. , Prado R. F. , Camargo C. H. R. , Valera M. C.
Published: April 2017

Aim

To establish an SV40 T‐Ag‐transfected cell line of human pulp‐derived cells in order to compare the cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and to investigate the activities of immunological biomarkers of several endodontic sealers.

Methodology

Primary human pulp cells and transfected cells were cultured. Cell morphology and proliferation were analysed, and the expression of cell‐specific gene transcripts and proteins was detected by RT–PCR and immunohistochemistry. Transfection of human pulp‐derived cells resulted in an immortalized cell line retaining phenotypic characteristics from the primarily cells tested. The SV40 T‐Ag‐transfected cells were cultured and stimulated by sealers (Apexit Plus, Real Seal, AH Plus, and EndoREZ) to evaluate the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity by MTT and MTN assays, respectively. Immunological inflammatory biomarkers (IL6, IL8 and TNF‐α) were determined by ELISA assay. The differences between median values were statistically analysed using Kruskal–Wallis and Dunn's tests at 5% significance level.

Results

The cytotoxicity assay revealed that multimethacrylate (Real Seal) was the most cytotoxic sealer (P < 0.05) and exhibited the highest inflammatory potential against the SV40 T‐Ag‐transfected cells (P < 0.05). All root canal sealers tested were able to stimulate the immortalized pulp cells to produce IL‐6, IL‐8 and TNF‐α, with differences in relation to the control group (P < 0.05). Higher levels of IL‐6, IL‐8 and TNF‐α were found in cell supernatant after stimulation with multimethacrylate (Real Seal) compared to all other sealers tested (P < 0.05). No differences were found comparing epoxy resin‐based sealer (AHPlus), single‐methacrylate sealer (EndoREZ) and calcium hydroxide‐based sealer (Apexit Plus), regardless of the cytokine investigated (all P > 0.05).

Conclusions

A SV40 T‐Ag‐transfected cell line of human pulp‐derived cells was established. The methacrylate resin‐based sealer (Real Seal) exhibited the greatest cytoxicity and inflammatory potential against immortalized pulp cells compared to an epoxy resin‐based sealer (AH Plus), a methacrylate‐based sealer (EndoRez) and a calcium hydroxide‐based sealer (Apexit).
Processing and properties of porous SiC ceramics prepared by yttrium aluminum garnet infiltration
Authors: Baitalik Sanchita , Kayal Nijhuma , Chakrabarti Omprakash
Published: April 2017

Oxide bonded porous SiC ceramics were synthesized by infiltrating a liquid precursor of yttrium aluminum garnet into porous powder compact of SiC followed by sintering at 1300‐1500°C in air. Infiltration rate was estimated using weight gain by the liquid precursor sol into porous SiC powder compact as a function of time and was explained by Darcy's and Ficks's laws. The effects of SiC particle sizes and sintering temperatures on the formation of bonding phases, microstructure, SiC oxidation degree, flexural strength, porosity, and pore size distribution of porous SiC ceramics were studied. Various crystalline oxide phases were detected by XRD analysis. Depending on the starting SiC powder sizes and sintering temperatures, the porosity of the final ceramics varied nearly in the range of ~29‐41 vol. % with the variation of average pore diameter between ~5 and 30 μm. Flexural strength varied from 41 to 8 MPa depending on porosity. The effect of corrosion on oxide bond phases was investigated in strong acidic and basic medium at 90°C. The ceramics showed better corrosion resistance in acidic medium compared to basic medium. In basic medium, significant reduction in flexural strength (~42%) was arisen.
Outcomes and feasibility of the short transitional intervention in psychiatry in improving the transition from inpatient treatment to the community: A pilot study
Authors: Hegedüs Anna , Kozel Bernd , Fankhauser Niklaus , Needham Ian , Behrens Johann
Published: April 2017

Discharge from psychiatric inpatient care is frequently described as chaotic, stressful, and emotionally charged. Following discharge, service users are vulnerable to becoming overwhelmed by the challenges involved in readapting to their home environments, which could result in serious problems and lead to readmission. The short transitional intervention in psychiatry (STeP) is a bridging intervention that includes pre‐ and post‐discharge sections. It aims to prepare patients for specific situations in the period immediately following discharge from a psychiatric hospital. We conducted a quasi‐experimental pilot study to determine the feasibility of the intervention, and gain insight into the effects of the STeP. Two inpatient wards at a Swiss psychiatric hospital participated in the study, and represented the intervention and control arms. Patient recruitment and baseline assessment were performed 2 weeks prior to discharge. Follow‐up data were collected 1 week subsequent to discharge. Questionnaires measured coping, admission and health‐care usage, self‐efficacy, working alliance, experience of transition, and the number of difficulties experienced following discharge. Fourteen and 15 patients completed the follow‐up assessment in the control and intervention groups, respectively. The STeP did not affect primary or secondary outcomes; however, it was shown to be feasible, and patients’ feedback highlighted the importance of post‐discharge contact sessions. Further research is required to improve understanding of the discharge experience, identify relevant patient outcomes, and assess the effectiveness of the intervention in an adequately‐powered randomized, controlled trial.
Enzymatic debridement with collagenase in wounds and ulcers: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Patry Jérôme , Blanchette Virginie
Published: April 2017

Enzymatic debridement with collagenase is a technique that is commonly used in clinical practice. This systematic review examines the effect of collagenase on all kinds of wounds, compared to an alternative therapy, on wound healing, wound bed characteristics, cost‐effectiveness and the occurrence of adverse events. We conducted a systematic literature search on available literature in Cochrane databases, MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL. Two investigators independently assessed the titles and abstracts of all randomised controlled trials obtained involving collagenase of all kinds of wounds based on inclusion criteria. Of the 1411 citations retrieved, 22 studies reported outcomes with the use of collagenase either for wound healing or wound debridement. Results support the use of collagenase for enzymatic debridement in pressure ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers and in conjunction with topical antibiotics for burns. However, studies presented a high risk of bias. Risk ratio of developing an adverse event related to collagenase versus the alternative treatment was statistically significant (for 10 studies, RR: 1·79, 95% CI 1·24–2·59, I2=0%, P = 0·002). There is very limited data on the effect of collagenase as an enzymatic debridement technique on wounds. More independant research and adequate reporting of adverse events are warranted.
The need to know: The information needs of parents of infants with an intellectual disability—a qualitative study
Authors: Douglas Tracy , Redley Bernice , Ottmann Goetz
Published: April 2017

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore the information needs of parents of infants with an intellectual disability in the first year of life.

Background

Parents whose infant has an intellectual disability need access to information if they are to facilitate optimal care for their child. A lack of timely, accurate information provision by health professionals, particularly nurses and midwives, can increase parental stress and hinder access to the supports they and their infant require.

Design

A qualitative descriptive methodology was used for the study.

Methods

Qualitative interviews were undertaken with parents of 11 children with intellectual disabilities in Victoria, Australia in 2014. Data were analysed using descriptive thematic analysis.

Findings

Parents experienced challenges accessing quality information during the first year of their child's life. Parents required incremental information provision to build a strong knowledge base to facilitate optimal care for their infants. Three types of knowledge were identified as crucial for parents: knowledge about (1) the infant's condition; (2) the infant's specific needs and (3) available supports and services. Health professionals were the key resource to access this information.

Conclusion

Health professionals’ responsibilities include providing relevant, timely information to parents of infants with intellectual disabilities. This study conceptualises three types of information parents need to develop a strong knowledge base to guide their infant's care and provides guidance concerning the optimal timing for the delivery of information.
Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 analog, liraglutide, improves visceral sensation and gut permeability in rats
Authors: Nozu Tsukasa , Miyagishi Saori , Kumei Shima , Nozu Rintaro , Takakusaki Kaoru , Okumura Toshikatsu
Published: April 2017

Background and Aim

A glucagon‐like peptide‐1 analog, liraglutide, has been reported to block inflammatory somatic pain. We hypothesized that liraglutide attenuates lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced and repeated water avoidance stress (WAS)‐induced visceral hypersensitivity and tested the hypothesis in rats.

Methods

The threshold of the visceromotor response induced by colonic balloon distention was measured to assess visceral sensation. Colonic permeability was determined in vivo by quantifying the absorbed Evans blue spectrophotometrically, which was instilled in the proximal colon for 15 min. The interleukin‐6 level in colonic mucosa was also quantified using ELISA.

Results

Subcutaneously injected LPS (1 mg/kg) reduced the visceromotor response threshold after 3 h. Liraglutide (300 μg/kg subcutaneously) at 15 h and 30 min before injecting LPS eliminated LPS‐induced allodynia. It also blocked the allodynia induced by repeated water avoidance stress for 1 h for three consecutive days. Neither vagotomy nor naloxone altered the antinociceptive effect of liraglutide, but NG‐nitro‐L‐arginine methyl ester, a nitric oxide synthesis inhibitor, blocked it. LPS increased colonic permeability and the interleukin‐6 level, and the analog significantly inhibited these responses.

Conclusions

This study suggests that liraglutide blocked LPS‐induced visceral allodynia, which may be a nitric oxide‐dependent response, and was probably mediated by inhibiting pro‐inflammatory cytokine production and attenuating the increased gut permeability. Because the LPS‐cytokine system is considered to contribute to altered visceral sensation in irritable bowel syndrome, these results indicate the possibility that liraglutide can be useful for treating this disease.
Accuracy of Current Diagnostic Criteria for Acute Bacterial Infection in Older Adults in the Emergency Department
Authors: Caterino Jeffrey M. , Leininger Robert , Kline David M. , Southerland Lauren T. , Khaliqdina Salman , Baugh Christopher W. , Pallin Daniel J. , Stevenson Kurt B.
Published: April 2017

Objectives

To compare the accuracy of the Loeb criteria, emergency department (ED) physicians’ diagnoses, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for acute bacterial infection in older adults with a criterion standard expert review.

Design

Prospective, observational study.

Setting

Urban, tertiary‐care ED.

Participants

Individuals aged 65 and older in the ED, excluding those who were incarcerated, underwent a trauma, did not speak English, or were unable to consent.

Measurements

Two physician experts identified bacterial infections using clinical judgement, participant surveys, and medical records; a third adjudicated in cases of disagreement. Agreement and test characteristics were measured for ED physician diagnosis, Loeb criteria, and CDC surveillance guidelines.

Results

Criterion‐standard review identified bacterial infection in 77 of 424 participants (18%) (18 (4.2%) lower respiratory, 19 (4.5%) urinary tract (UTI), 22 (5.2%) gastrointestinal, 15 (3.5%) skin and soft tissue). ED physicians diagnosed infection in 71 (17%), but there were 33 with under‐ and 27 with overdiagnosis. Physician agreement with the criterion standard was moderate for infection overall and each infection type (κ = 0.48–0.59), but sensitivity was low (<67%), and the negative likelihood ratio (LR(‐)) was greater than 0.30 for all infections. The Loeb criteria had poor sensitivity, agreement, and LR(–) for lower respiratory (50%, κ = 0.55; 0.51) and urinary tract infection (26%, κ = 0.34; 0.74), but 87% sensitivity (κ = 0.78; LR(–) 0.14) for skin and soft tissue infections. CDC guidelines had moderate agreement but poor sensitivity and LR(–).

Conclusion

Emergency physicians often under‐ and overdiagnose infections in older adults. The Loeb criteria are useful only for diagnosing skin and soft tissue infections. CDC guidelines are inadequate in the ED. New criteria are needed to aid ED physicians in accurately diagnosing infection in older adults.
Work‐related psychosocial stress and the risk of type 2 diabetes in later life
Authors: Pan K.‐Y. , Xu W. , Mangialasche F. , Fratiglioni L. , Wang H.‐X.
Published: April 2017

Objectives

Although work‐related psychosocial stress and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) have been investigated, the association between lifelong work stress and T2DM in later life remains unclear. This study examined whether high work stress increased the risk of T2DM risk in later life, accounting also for other sources of stress outside work, such as burden from household chores.

Methods

From the population‐based prospective study SNAC‐K, 2719 diabetes‐free participants aged ≥60 years were identified and followed up for 6 years. T2DM was ascertained by glycated haemoglobin level, self‐report, hypoglycaemic medication use and clinical records. Levels of job control and demands over the whole working life were assessed by a validated matrix. Household chores load was assessed by hours spent on such chores. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to estimate the association between job strain and T2DM.

Results

During the 6‐year follow‐up, 154 incident cases of T2DM were identified. High job strain was associated with T2DM occurrence amongst the 60‐year‐old cohort (OR = 3.14, 95% CI: 1.27–7.77), and only amongst women (OR = 6.18, 95% CI: 1.22–31.26), but not in men. When taking into account household chores load, a more pronounced risk of T2DM was associated with high job strain in combination with heavy household chores load in women aged 60 years at baseline (OR = 9.45, 95% CI: 1.17–76.53).

Conclusion

Work‐related psychosocial stress may increase the risk of T2DM only amongst women in their early 60s. The risk can be amplified by high household chores load.
Tick‐borne encephalitis in patients vaccinated against this disease
Authors: Lotrič‐Furlan S. , Bogovič P. , Avšič‐Županc T. , Jelovšek M. , Lusa L. , Strle F.
Published: April 2017

Background

Information on tick‐borne encephalitis (TBE) in patients already vaccinated against the disease is limited.

Objectives

To compare the course and outcome in patients with vaccination breakthrough TBE with findings in patients who developed TBE without previous vaccination.

Methods

All adult patients diagnosed with TBE at a single medical centre during a 16‐year period and who had received at least two doses of TBE vaccine before the onset of illness qualified for the study. For each patient with breakthrough TBE, two unvaccinated sex‐ and age‐matched patients, diagnosed with TBE in the same year, were included for comparison.

Results

Amongst 2332 patients diagnosed with TBE in the period 2000–2015, 39 (1.7%) had been vaccinated against the disease. Their median age was 59 (20–83) years; 22 of 39 (56.4%) were male. In comparison with unvaccinated patients with TBE, those with breakthrough disease more often experienced a monophasic course of illness (P = 0.006), had a higher CSF leucocyte count (P = 0.005), more often had urine retention (P = 0.012), more often needed ICU treatment (P = 0.009), were hospitalized for longer (P = 0.002) and had more severe acute illness (P = 0.004 for simple clinical assessment, P = 0.001 for severity score).

Conclusion

In addition to several findings corroborating previous results in patients with vaccination breakthrough TBE, such as older age and the presence of a particular specific serum antibody pattern indicating anamnestic response, findings in this study indicate that the acute illness in patients with breakthrough TBE is more severe than in unvaccinated sex‐ and age‐matched patients who develop the disease.
Effects of energy supply and nicotinic acid supplementation on serum anti‐oxidative capacity and on expression of oxidative stress‐related genes in blood leucocytes of periparturient primi‐ and pluriparous dairy cows
Authors: Bühler S. , Frahm J. , Tienken R. , Kersten S. , Meyer U. , Huber K. , Dänicke S.
Published: April 2017

The periparturient period is accompanied by metabolic and oxidative stress. Niacin is known to decrease lipolysis but is also reported to have anti‐oxidative effects. Therefore, we examined the effects of energy supply and a nicotinic acid (NA) supplementation on anti‐oxidative serum parameters and on the expression of oxidative stress‐related genes in blood leucocytes of periparturient dairy cows, differing in parity. Twenty‐nine pluriparous and 18 primiparous cows were allocated to four different feeding groups 42 days before expected parturition until 100 days postpartum and fed a ration with either a low concentrate proportion of 30% (LC) or a high concentrate proportion of 60% (HC). After parturition, all animals received 30% concentrate which was increased to 50% either within 16 (LC group) or 24 days (HC group). Half of the animals per group were supplemented with 24 g NA per day from 42 days prepartum until 24 days postpartum. All investigated parameters varied significantly over time compared to parturition (p < .05). Ferric reducing ability (FRA) exhibited a nadir before parturition, and the antioxidant enzymes glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) showed peak activities around parturition. Expression levels of GPX1, SOD2, xanthine dehydrogenase (XDH) and nuclear factor (erythroid‐derived 2)‐like 2 (NRF2) peaked before calving. The concentrate level influenced GPX activity and mRNA abundance of SOD2, XDH and poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1). Pluriparous animals exhibited higher serum GPX activities, a more distinct nadir for FRA and higher expression levels for GPX1, SOD2 and XDH. Primiparous cows displayed higher serum SOD activities. NA supplementation increased serum SOD activity antepartum in LC animals. Parturition was characterised by an increased need for antioxidants and an increased expression of oxidative stress‐related genes that clearly differed with parity and was influenced by energy supply while NA exerted only minor effects on the investigated parameters.
Long‐term change in understorey plant communities of conventionally managed temperate deciduous forests: effects of nitrogen deposition and forest management
Authors: Förster Agnes , Becker Thomas , Gerlach Albrecht , Meesenburg Henning , Leuschner Christoph
Published: April 2017

Questions

The understorey vegetation of temperate forests may serve as an indicator of long‐term change in site conditions. We investigated vegetation change of the herb and moss layers during the last 50 yr in managed European beech (Fagus sylvatica) and sessile oak (Quercus petraea) forests under chronic N deposition. We tested the hypotheses that (1) the species richness of the understorey vegetation has increased in intensively managed forests because species gains due to increased light and nutrient supply are greater than species losses, and (2) shifts in species richness and community composition differ between beech and oak stands due to contrasting light regimes.

Location

Forests of the Solling Mountains, central Germany.

Methods

We re‐sampled 95 relevés of the herb and moss layers after 46/47 yr (1966/67 vs 2013) to analyse changes in cover and species composition. In the beech forests, two widespread types of production forest (selection cutting vs shelterwood management) were compared with unmanaged forest reserves. Trends in vegetation change were related to a long‐term record of N deposition and soil chemistry, shifts in EIV and changes in canopy structure.

Results

A decrease in cover of the uppermost tree layer and emerging lower tree and shrub layers have increased the heterogeneity of canopy structure and indicate a more heterogeneous light distribution on the forest floor of the beech and oak forests. Plot‐level species richness has increased in both forest types (except for beech stands under shelterwood management). Under chronic N deposition (~40 kg N·ha−1·yr−1 before 1990, 20–25 kg·ha−1·yr−1 since 1990), the organic layer N pool more than doubled between 1966 and 1993 with a decrease thereafter, and the EIV‐N scores have increased. The N score increase was not related to changes in the canopy.

Conclusions

This study presents evidence of an N deposition effect on the understorey vegetation, which acts independently from the recorded changes in canopy structure. We conclude that altered nutrient supply due to atmospheric N deposition, together with changes in light regimes and management‐related disturbance, are the main drivers of vegetation change in the studied stands.
Comparison of Silodosin versus Tadalafil in Patients with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Associated with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Authors: YOSHIDA Masaki , ORIGASA Hideki , SEKI Narihito
Published: April 2017

Objectives

To compare the efficacy and safety of silodosin versus tadalafil for treating lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (LUTS/BPH).

Methods

After informed consent, patients with LUTS/BPH were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive silodosin 8 mg/day or tadalafil 5 mg/day for 8 weeks (Period 1). Patients treated with tadalafil entered an exploratory phase and received silodosin or tadalafil for another 8 weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint was the change in the total International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) with Period 1 treatment.

Results

Both silodosin and tadalafil demonstrated statistically significant improvement in IPSS total symptom score, with a mean ± standard deviation change of −10.1 ± 6.4 (P < 0.0001) and −8.0 ± 6.3 (P < 0.0001), respectively. The former reduction was significantly greater than the latter (P = 0.0277). Adverse drug reactions occurred at a rate of 23.4% with silodosin and 8.4% with tadalafil. No serious adverse drug reactions were documented, suggesting that both drugs were well tolerated. Moreover, results of Period 2 showed that switching to silodosin from tadalafil achieved a faster onset of improvements in IPSS Quality of Life Index score and total Overactive Bladder Symptom Score.

Conclusions

Silodosin achieved significantly greater improvement than tadalafil, with a higher incidence of adverse drug reactions. The risk‐benefit profiles obtained in this study will provide useful information for optimal pharmacological treatment of LUTS/BPH. Our results suggest that silodosin can be one of the first‐line therapies for rapid and efficient relief in patients with LUTS/BPH.
When Is Anger Helpful or Hurtful? Status and Role Impact on Anger Expression and Outcomes
Authors: Callister Ronda Roberts , Geddes Deanna , Gibson Donald F.
Published: April 2017

Anger expressers and targets often experience anger as an unpleasant and potentially damaging emotion. However, emerging social functional perspectives on workplace anger suggest that anger expressions can promote valued dialogue, facilitating the airing of differences that can lead to improved working relationship and movement toward organizational goals and beneficial change. While supervisors typically express work‐related anger with impunity, subordinate anger may be challenged and sanctioned more frequently. Hypotheses tested status (supervisor vs. subordinate) and role (expresser vs. target) effects on perceived outcomes. Findings indicate a significant main effect for status and significant interaction with role such that subordinates who are targets of supervisor anger, reported significantly more negative outcomes from anger expression than any other type of anger interaction. We also found that existing strong relationships between supervisors and subordinates contribute to outcomes that are more favorable following anger expressions at work.
Lessons Learned from Working with Roy J. Lewicki
Authors: Tomlinson Edward C. , Polin Beth , Gray Barbara , Barry Bruce
Published: April 2017

This article includes four essays in tribute to our colleague, Roy J. Lewicki, recipient of the International Association for Conflict Management 2013 Lifetime Achievement Award. Although he has made many contributions to the conflict and negotiation literature, we focus in particular on our experiences in collaborating with him on his research on leader influence on subordinate discretionary behavior, interpersonal trust, framing in environmental conflicts, and negotiation pedagogy. Each essay describes key lessons we learned from Roy. The end of the article features a closing commentary by Roy.
Conflict and Culture Across Time and Space: Work and Legacy of Evert van de Vliert
Authors: De Dreu Carsten K. W. , Kluwer Esther S. , Euwema Martin S. , Van der Vegt Gerben S.
Published: April 2017

Four former PhD students reflect on the work and legacy of their mentor Evert van de Vliert, emeritus professor at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands, and recipient of the 2005 Lifetime Achievement Award of the International Association for Conflict Management (IACM). We review two major contributions pioneered by Van de Vliert: theory on the cognitive, motivational, and affective underpinnings of interpersonal conflict management in private and professional settings and theory on the climato‐economic underpinnings of human cultural institutions and behavioral biases. In addition, we share personal anecdotes from our time as PhD students and collaborators of Evert van de Vliert. Throughout we touch on lessons learned for doing science and mentoring the next generation.
Assessment of motion of colonic contents in the human colon using MRI tagging
Authors: Pritchard S. E. , Paul J. , Major G. , Marciani L. , Gowland P. A. , Spiller R. C. , Hoad C. L.
Published: April 2017

Background

We have previously reported a non‐invasive, semi‐automated technique to assess motility of the wall of the ascending colon (AC) using Magnetic Resonance Imaging. This study investigated the feasibility of using a tagged MRI technique to visualize and assess the degree of flow within the human ascending colon in healthy subjects and those suffering from constipation.

Methods

An open‐labeled study of 11 subjects with constipation and 11 subjects without bowel disorders was performed. MRI scans were acquired fasted, then 60 and 120 minutes after ingestion of a 500 mL macrogol preparation. The amount of free fluid in the small and large bowel was assessed using a heavily T2‐weighted MRI sequence. The internal movement of the contents of the AC was visualized using a cine tagged MRI sequence and assessed by a novel analysis technique. Comparisons were made between fasting and postprandial scans within individuals, and between the constipation and control groups.

Key Results

Macrogol significantly increased the mobile, MR visible water content of the ascending colon at 60 minutes postingestion compared to fasted data (controls P=.001, constipated group P=.0039). The contents of the AC showed increased motion in healthy subjects but not in the constipated group with significant differences between groups at 60 minutes (P<.002) and 120 minutes (P<.003).

Conclusions and inferences

This study successfully demonstrated the use of a novel MRI tagging technique to visualize and assess the motion of ascending colon contents following a 500 mL macrogol challenge. Significant differences were demonstrated between healthy and constipated subjects.
PHYTOCHROME INTERACTING FACTORS mediate metabolic control of the circadian system in Arabidopsis
Authors: Shor Ekaterina , Paik Inyup , Kangisser Shlomit , Green Rachel , Huq Enamul
Published: April 2017

The circadian (c. 24 h) system has a central role in regulating the timing and coordination of photosynthesis, and in turn photosynthesis and photosynthetic products which are controlled by the circadian clock feedback to affect the circadian oscillator that generates rhythms. However, little is known about the mechanism(s) by which this feedback occurs. One group of likely candidates for signal transduction to the circadian clock are the PHYTOCHROME INTERACTING FACTOR (PIF) family of transcription factors which have been shown to be involved in numerous signaling pathways in Arabidopsis. Yet despite evidence that some PIF genes are under circadian control and bind promoter motifs present in circadian genes, until now PIFs have not been shown to affect the circadian system.

Using a range of techniques, we have examined how circadian rhythms are affected in higher order pif mutants and the mechanisms by which PIFs regulate signaling to the circadian clock.

We show that PIFs mediate metabolic signals to the circadian oscillator and that sucrose directly affects PIF binding to the promoters of key circadian oscillator genes in vivo that may entrain the oscillator.

Our results provide a basis for understanding the mechanism for metabolic signaling to the circadian system in Arabidopsis.
Method of locating the visual axis objectively
Authors: Molebny Vasyl
Published: April 2017

Purpose

To locate the visual axis of the eye objectively.

Method

Based on three‐beam scanning laser radar microprofilometry, a technique is proposed to objectively locate the visual axis of the eye. The laser beam consists of three components, two of them being shifted relatively to the central one by differing frequencies, filtered in spatially orthogonal directions. The centre of the foveola is defined as the crossing of steepest inclinations determined in the specific beam positions on the trajectory of scanning. The position of the cornea crossing by the visual axis is designated by the optical axis of the measuring instrument.

Results

Nanometer sensitivity was confirmed in a preliminary test.

Conclusions

The proposed technique can be incorporated into any clinical wavefront sensing instrument and can be used for centration‐sensitive vision correction, as well as for other instances when knowing the exact position of the fovea is important.
Using perimetric data to estimate ganglion cell loss for detecting progression of glaucoma: a comparison of models
Authors: Price Derek A. , Swanson William H. , Horner Douglas G.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Models relating perimetric sensitivities to ganglion cell numbers have been proposed for combining structural and functional measures from patients with glaucoma. Here we compared seven models for ability to differentiate progressing and stable patients, testing the hypothesis that the model incorporating local spatial scale would have the best performance.

Methods

The models were compared for the United Kingdom Glaucoma Treatment Study (UKGTS) data for the right eyes of 489 patients recently diagnosed with glaucoma. The SITA 24‐2 program was utilised for perimetry and Stratus OCT fast scanning protocol for thickness of circumpapillary retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL). The first analysis defined progression in terms of decline in RNFL thickness. The highest and lowest quintiles (22 subjects per group) were identified for change in thickness of inferior temporal (IT), superior temporal (ST), and global RNFL (μm year−1); a two‐way anova was used to look for differences between the models in ability to discriminate the two quintiles. The second analysis defined a ‘progression group’ as those who were flagged by the UKGTS criteria as having progressive loss in perimetric sensitivity, and a ‘no progression’ group as those with rate of change in Mean Deviation (MD) closest to 0 dB year−1 (87 subjects per group). The third analysis characterised variability of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) models for the two groups in the second analysis, using the standard deviation of residuals from linear regression of ganglion cell number over time to compute Coefficient of Variation (CoV).

Results

The first analysis produced a negative result because the three anovas found no effect of model or interaction of model and group (F6,294 < 3.1, p > 0.08). There was an effect of group only for the anova with the ST sector (F6,294 = 12.2, p < 0.001). The second analysis also produced a negative result, because ROC areas were in the range 0.69–0.72 for all models. The third analysis found that even when variability in MD was low, the CoV was so large that test‐retest variation could include 100% loss of ganglion cells.

Conclusions

Two very different approaches for testing the hypothesis both gave a negative result. For all seven ganglion cell models, rates of ganglion cell loss were highly affected by fluctuations in height of the hill of vision. Methods for reducing effects of between‐visit variability are needed in order to assess progression by relating perimetric sensitivities and ganglion cell numbers.
The small ubiquitin‐like modifier E3 ligase MdSIZ1 promotes anthocyanin accumulation by sumoylating MdMYB1 under low‐temperature conditions in apple
Authors: Zhou Li‐Jie , Li Yuan‐Yuan , Zhang Rui‐Fen , Zhang Chun‐Ling , Xie Xing‐Bin , Zhao Cheng , Hao Yu‐Jin
Published: April 2017

MdMYB1 acts as a crucial component of the MYB‐bHLH‐WD40 complex to regulate anthocyanin biosynthesis in red‐skinned apples (Malus domestica), but little is known about its post‐translational regulation. Here, a small ubiquitin‐like modifier E3 ligase MdSIZ1 was screened out as an MdMYB1‐interacting protein with a yeast two‐hybridization approach. The interaction between MdSIZ1 and MdMYB1 was further verified with pull‐down and CoIP assays. Furthermore, it was found that MdSIZ1 directly sumoylated MdMYB1 proteins in vivo and in vitro, especially under moderately low temperature (17 °C) conditions, and that this sumoylation was required for MdMYB1 protein stability. Moreover, the transcription level of MdSIZ1 gene was remarkably induced by low temperature and phosphorus deficiency, and MdSIZ1 overexpression exerted a large positive influence on anthocyanin accumulation and red fruit coloration, suggesting its important role in the regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis under stress conditions. Our findings reveal an important role for a small ubiquitin‐like modifier modification of MYB transcription factors in regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis in plants.
Striated duct adenoma presenting with intra‐tumoral hematoma and papillary thyroid carcinoma‐like histology
Authors: Ito Yohei , Fujii Kana , Murase Takayuki , Saida Kosuke , Okumura Yoshihide , Takino Hisashi , Masaki Ayako , Beppu Shintaro , Kawakita Daisuke , Ijichi Kei , Inagaki Hiroshi
Published: April 2017

Striated duct adenoma of the salivary gland is a rare benign tumor characterized by unilayered duct epithelium and striations of the tumor cell membranes. To the best of our knowledge, only six cases have been reported in the literature. Here we report an additional case, which was complicated by an intra‐tumoral hematoma on clinical presentation and by papillary thyroid carcinoma‐like histology on intra‐operative frozen section diagnosis. An asymptomatic 78‐year‐old male presented with a two‐year‐history of a painless tumor of the left parotid. An intra‐tumoral hematoma, which is unusual for a salivary gland tumor, was suspected from results of pre‐operative radiology. The patient then underwent a left parotidectomy. The intra‐operative frozen section diagnosis indicated a benign tumor, although ectopic papillary thyroid carcinoma was raised as a differential diagnosis since the eosinophilic tumor cells occasionally possessed nuclear grooves and nuclear pseudo‐inclusions. By precise histopathological examination using paraffin sections, the tumor was finally diagnosed as striated duct adenoma. This type of tumor has unique features of hypervascular stroma and papillary thyroid carcinoma‐like nuclei. In our case, the former feature was associated with the intra‐tumoral hematoma and the latter feature, with difficulty in frozen section tumor diagnosis.