bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating future dental services' demand and supply: a model for Northern Germany
Authors: Jäger Ralf , van den Berg Neeltje , Hoffmann Wolfgang , Jordan Rainer A. , Schwendicke Falk
Published: November 2015

Objectives

To plan dental services, a spatial estimation of future demands and supply is required. We aimed at estimating demand and supply in 2030 in Northern Germany based on the expected local socio‐demography and oral‐health‐related morbidity, and the predicted number of dentists and their working time.

Methods

All analyses were performed on zip‐code level. Register data were used to determine the number of retiring dentists and to construct regression models for estimating the number of dentists moving into each zip‐code area until 2030. Demand was modelled using projected demography and morbidities. Demand‐supply ratios were evaluated and spatial analyses applied. Sensitivity analyses were employed to assess robustness of our findings.

Results

Compared with 2011, the population decreased (−7% to −11%) and aged (from mean 46 to 51 years) until 2030. Oral‐health‐related morbidity changed, leading to more periodontal and fewer prosthetic treatments needs, with the overall demand decreasing in all scenarios (−25% to −33%). In contrast, the overall number of dentists did only limitedly change, resulting in moderate decrease in the supplied service quantities (max. −22%). Thus, the demand–supply ratio increased in all but the worst case scenario, but was unequally distributed between spatial units, with several areas being over‐ and some being under‐ or none‐serviced in 2030.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of the underlying data and the required assumptions, this study expects an increasingly polarized ratio of dental services demand and supply in Northern Germany. Our estimation allows to assess the impact of different influence factors on demand or supply and to specifically identify potential challenges for workforce planning and regulation in different spatial units.
Variability in penetrance of multiple endocrine neoplasia 2A with amino acid substitutions in RET codon 634
Authors: Machens Andreas , Dralle Henning
Published: November 2015

Objective

Controversy surrounds the importance of the different amino acids substituting for cysteine in REarranged during Transfection (RET) codon 634 for multiple endocrine neoplasia 2A (MEN 2A). This study aimed to clarify the relevance of these amino acid substitutions for the development of MEN 2A.

Design

Cross‐sectional study at surgical referral centres in Germany.

Patients

Included were 184 carriers of RET mutations in codon 634.

Measurements

Arginine (79 carriers) and tyrosine (50 carriers) substitutions in codon 634 were compared with each other and, for the first time, gauged against a common reference standard comprising all other amino acid substitutions (phenylalanine, 35 carriers; serine, 12 carriers; glycine, 7 carriers; tryptophan, 1 carrier).

Results

Arginine substitutions in codon 634 were associated with higher penetrance of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC; 82% vs 62%; P = 0·010), any phaeochromocytoma (44% vs 15%, P < 0·001), bilateral phaeochromocytoma (32% vs 5%; P < 0·001) and primary hyperparathyroidism (18% vs 5%; P = 0·039) relative to the reference standard. The penetrance rates of any phaeochromocytoma (44% vs 26%; P = 0·041) and bilateral phaeochromocytoma (32% vs 14%; P = 0·035) were also higher with arginine than with tyrosine substitutions. Corrected for multiple testing, the associations of arginine with any phaeochromocytoma and bilateral phaeochromocytoma remained statistically significant. Progression of MTC, evidenced by largest primary tumour diameter, nodal status, distant metastasis and biochemical cure, did not differ by amino acid substitution.

Conclusions

In codon 634, arginine substitutions for cysteine may cause slightly higher penetrance rates of MEN 2A which, overall, are too small to treat carriers differently. The mode of action by which arginine exerts these subtle effects warrants further research.
Ibopamine challenge testing becomes negative following successful trabeculectomy surgery
Authors: Landers John , Ullrich Katja , E Craig Jamie
Published: November 2015

Background

The ibopamine challenge test correlates well with a patient's peak diurnal intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement. We aimed to investigate the effect that a functioning trabeculectomy has on the ibopamine challenge test.

Design

Non‐randomized prospective clinical trial evaluating a diagnostic test.

Participants

Thirteen patients were recruited through glaucoma clinics at the Flinders Medical Centre. Of these, seven required surgical management with trabeculectomy surgery, whilst the remainder were managed medically.

Methods

Patients underwent IOP measurement, and then two drops of Ibopamine 2% solution were instilled into the study eye of each patient. After 45 min, IOP was reassesed. A positive challenge test was considered to be a rise in IOP of greater than 3 mmHg. Changes from baseline were determined and compared between groups. Twelve months later, this test was then repeated in all patients.

Main Outcome Measure

Change in IOP after ibopamine challenge.

Results

Following the ibopamine challenge, IOP increased by 9.2 mmHg (SD 2.8) (100% positive) for medically managed patients and 7.2 mmHg (SD 2.0) (100% positive) for surgically managed patients (P = 0.18). The surgically managed group then underwent trabeculectomy surgery. Twelve months later, the ibopamine challenge was repeated. Following the repeat ibopamine challenge, IOP increased by 7.2 mmHg (SD 2.3) for medically managed patients and 0.3 mmHg (SD 1.3) for surgically managed patients (P < 0.0001). The medically managed group remained 100% positive, whilst the surgically manage group became 0% positive (Fisher Exact P = 0.044).

Conclusions

A glaucoma patient with a positive ibopamine challenge will show a negative challenge result when re‐tested following trabeculectomy surgery.
A novelCHST3allele associated with spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia and hearing loss in Pakistani kindred
Authors: Waryah A. M. , Shahzad M. , Shaikh H. , Sheikh S. A. , Channa N. A. , Hufnagel R. B. , Makhdoom A. , Riazuddin S. , Ahmed Z. M.
Published: November 2015

Skeletal dysplasias (SDs) are highly heterogeneous disorders composed of 40 clinical sub‐types that are part of 456 well‐delineated syndromes in humans. Here, we enrolled consanguineous kindred from a remote area of Sindh province of Pakistan, with 14 affected individuals suffering with short stature, kyphoscoliosis, joint dislocations, clubfoot, heart valve anomalies and progressive bilateral mixed hearing loss. To identify pathogenic variants in this family, whole exome sequencing (WES) was performed in one affected and one normal individual, which revealed a novel transversion mutation (c.802G>T; p.Glu268*) inCHST3associated with the phenotype.CHST3encodes a chondroitin 6‐O‐sulfotransferase‐1 (C6ST‐1) enzyme that is essential for the sulfation of proteoglycans found in cartilages. Previously, mutations inCHST3have largely been reported in sporadic cases of SD, primarily with severe spinal abnormalities, joint dislocations, joint contractures, and clubfoot. Clinical and radiological examination of the affected individuals in this family provides new insights into phenotypic spectrum ofCHST3alleles and disease progression with age.
Accrual Index: A Real‐Time Measure of the Timeliness of Clinical Study Enrollment
Authors: Corregano Lauren , Bastert Katelyn , Correa da Rosa Joel , Kost Rhonda G.
Published: November 2015

Background

Achieving timely accrual into clinical research studies remains a challenge for clinical translational research. We developed an evaluation measure, the Accrual Index (AI), normalized for sample size and study duration, using data from the protocol and study management databases. We applied the AI retrospectively and prospectively to assess its utility.

Methods

Accrual Target, Projected Time to Accrual Completion (PTAC), Evaluable Subjects, Dates of Recruitment Initiation, Analysis, and Completion were defined. AI is (% Accrual Target accrued/% PTAC elapsed). Changes to recruitment practices were described, and data extracted from study management databases.

Results

December 2014 (or final) AI was analyzed for 101 studies initiating recruitment from 2007 to 2014. Median AI was ≥1 for protocols initiating recruitment in 2011, 2013, and 2014. The AI varied widely for studies pre‐2013. Studies with AI > 4 utilized convenience samples for recruitment. Data‐justified PTAC was refined in 2013–2014 after which the AI range narrowed. Protocol characteristics were not associated with study AI.

Conclusion

Protocol AI reflects the relative agreement between accrual feasibility assessment (PTAC), and accrual performance, and is affected by recruitment practices. The AI may be useful in managing accountability, modeling accrual, allocating recruitment resources, and testing innovations in recruitment practices.
Beyond naïve cue combination: salience and social cues in early word learning
Authors: Yurovsky Daniel , Frank Michael C.
Published: November 2015

Children learn their earliest words through social interaction, but it is unknown how much they rely on social information. Some theories argue that word learning is fundamentally social from its outset, with even the youngest infants understanding intentions and using them to infer a social partner's target of reference. In contrast, other theories argue that early word learning is largely a perceptual process in which young children map words onto salient objects. One way of unifying these accounts is to model word learning as weighted cue combination, in which children attend to many potential cues to reference, but only gradually learn the correct weight to assign each cue. We tested four predictions of this kind of naïve cue combination account, using an eye‐tracking paradigm that combines social word teaching and two‐alternative forced‐choice testing. None of the predictions were supported. We thus propose an alternative unifying account: children are sensitive to social information early, but their ability to gather and deploy this information is constrained by domain‐general cognitive processes. Developmental changes in children's use of social cues emerge not from learning the predictive power of social cues, but from the gradual development of attention, memory, and speed of information processing.
Role of neutrophils in atherogenesis: an update
Authors: Pende Aldo , Artom Nathan , Bertolotto Maria , Montecucco Fabrizio , Dallegri Franco
Published: November 2015

Background

The role of neutrophils in the beginning and the progression of the atherosclerotic process did not receive much attention until the last years. On the contrary, recent data, in both the experimental animals and humans, suggest important effects of these cells with possible clinical consequences.

Materials and methods

This narrative review was based on the papers found on PubMed and MEDLINE up to July 2015. The search terms used were ‘neutrophil, atherosclerosis’ in combination with ‘recruitment, chemokine, plaque destabilization and pathophysiology’.

Results

Different models demonstrate the presence and the actions of neutrophils in the early steps of the atherogenesis confirming the fundamental role of these cells in the response of the innate immune system to different pathogens (in this context the modified lipoproteins). However, also the late phases of the atherosclerotic process, in particular the destabilization of a mature plaque, seem to be modulated by the neutrophils, possibly through the interaction with recently discovered biological systems such as the endocannabinoids.

Conclusions

The understanding of the mechanisms involved in the modulation exerted by neutrophils in atherosclerosis is pivotal in terms of the complete definition of the overall picture. This approach will certainly give us new targets and new pharmacological opportunities for the anti‐inflammatory strategy of the cardiovascular prevention.
INCOME INEQUALITY: THE CONSEQUENCES OF SKILL‐UPGRADING WHEN FIRMS HAVE HIERARCHICAL ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURES
Authors: Frederiksen Anders , Poulsen Odile
Published: November 2015

During the last three decades, most developed countries have experienced increasing income inequality. Using Danish register data from 1992 to 2007 for all private‐sector employees, we confirm that income inequality has increased in Denmark. We also observe an increase in the relative employment of highly educated individuals, as well as differential income growth rates across employee subgroups where, in particular, managers experienced significant real income progression. We use an equilibrium search framework with on‐the‐job search to study the interplay between skill‐upgrading, management compensation, and income inequality. In this model we can determine the management and education premia. We can also show that when our model is exposed to skill‐upgrading, it is capable of producing income dynamics similar to those observed in the Danish income distribution. (JEL J3, J6, M5)
Restructuring China's research institutes
Authors: Jiang Renai , Tortorice Daniel L. , Jefferson Gary H.
Published: November 2015

Over the past two decades, China's R&D intensity has surged. The institutional arrangements underlying this surge remain unclear. We study the notable restructuring of the country's 5,000 research institutes, begun in 1999. This study first reviews the evolution of China's research institute sector over the period 1995–2010. Then applying OLS, fixed effects, event study and propensity score analysis to institute level data, we find the restructuring programme has accomplished some of its goals. The converted Science and Technology enterprises shifted towards a more commercial mission, the institutes converted to non‐profit research institutes have focused on a more research‐oriented mission.
MALT1 cleaves the E3 ubiquitin ligase HOIL‐1 in activated T cells, generating a dominant negative inhibitor of LUBAC‐induced NF‐κB signaling
Authors: Elton Lynn , Carpentier Isabelle , Staal Jens , Driege Yasmine , Haegman Mira , Beyaert Rudi
Published: November 2015

Human paracaspase 1 (PCASP1), better known as mucosa associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma translocation 1 (MALT1), plays a key role in immunity and inflammation by regulating gene expression in lymphocytes and other immune cell types. Deregulated MALT1 activity has been implicated in autoimmunity, immunodeficiency and certain types of lymphoma. As a scaffold MALT1 assembles downstream signaling proteins for nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) activation, while its proteolytic activity further enhances NF‐κB activation by cleaving NF‐κB inhibitory proteins. MALT1 also processes and inactivates a number of mRNA destabilizing proteins, which further fine‐tunes gene expression. MALT1 protease inhibitors are currently developed for therapeutic targeting. Here we show that T cell activation, as well as overexpression of the oncogenic fusion protein API2–MALT1, induces the MALT1‐mediated cleavage of haem‐oxidized IRP2 ubiquitin ligase 1 (HOIL‐1). In addition, to acting as a K48‐polyubiquitin specific E3 ubiquitin ligase for different substrates, HOIL‐1 co‐operates in a catalytic‐independent manner with the E3 ubiquitin ligase HOIL‐1L interacting protein (HOIP) as part of the linear ubiquitin chain assembly complex (LUBAC). Intriguingly, cleavage of HOIL‐1 does not directly abolish its ability to support HOIP‐induced NF‐κB signaling, which is still mediated by the N‐terminal cleavage fragment, but generates a C‐terminal fragment with LUBAC inhibitory properties. We propose that MALT1‐mediated HOIL‐1 cleavage provides a gain‐of‐function mechanism that is involved in the negative feedback regulation of NF‐κB signaling.
Impact of natural killer cells on chronic hepatitis C and hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Tatsumi Tomohide , Takehara Tetsuo
Published: November 2015

Natural killer (NK) cells are involved in the pathogenesis of hepatitis C viral (HCV) infection and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Recent immunological progresses have revealed the molecular mechanisms of activation or inhibition of NK cells. In patients infected with HCV, the percentages of NK cells are decreased and the NK receptor expression and function of NK cells including cytotoxicity and cytokine production are altered. These alterations in NK cells are associated with persistent infection with HCV, liver injury, liver fibrosis and liver carcinogenesis. In HCV treatment, NK cells play a role in the eradication of HCV in both interferon (IFN)‐based therapy and IFN‐free therapy using direct‐acting antivirals (DAA). In HCC patients, the exhaustion of NK cells that represents lower cytotoxicity and impaired cytokine production may contribute to the progression of HCC. Several immunotherapies targeting NK cells have been reported. NK cell transfer and NK‐activating gene therapy have been demonstrated to be effective in mouse liver cancer models and several clinical trials are ongoing. Recently, the role of major histocompatibility complex class I‐related chain A (MICA), a human ligand of NKG2D, has attracted attention in the development of HCC. The expression of MICA could be controlled by anti‐HCC drugs including sorafenib. A new chemo‐immunotherapy may be expected in the treatment of HCC. In this review, we summarize the impact of NK cells on chronic hepatitis C and HCC.
Knowledge, attitudes and beliefs regarding colorectal cancer screening among ethnic minority groups in the Netherlands – a qualitative study
Authors: Woudstra Anke J. , Dekker Evelien , Essink‐Bot Marie‐Louise , Suurmond Jeanine
Published: November 2015

Background

Research has shown that ethnic minority groups are less likely to participate in colorectal cancer (CRC) screening than the majority population and hence less likely to be diagnosed at an early stage when treatment is potentially more successful.

Objective

To explore knowledge, attitudes and beliefs regarding CRC and CRC screening among ethnic minority groups in the Netherlands.

Design

We conducted qualitative interviews with 30 first‐generation immigrants born in Turkey, Morocco and Surinam. We based the topic guide on the health belief model. Framework analysis was used to analyse our data.

Results

Although knowledge of CRC and CRC screening was limited, all respondents felt susceptible to CRC. CRC screening was perceived to mainly benefit those individuals with poor health and symptoms. Although most respondents had a positive attitude towards CRC screening, knowledge about its potential harms was limited and self‐efficacy to participate was low. Adult children acted as important mediators in providing access to information. The language barrier and low literacy formed serious barriers to informed participation in CRC screening.

Conclusion

To ensure that all eligible individuals, including ethnic minority groups, have equal opportunities to informed participation in screening, targeted communication strategies should be developed, such as oral and visual channels, and face‐to‐face communication in the mother tongue. This will help ethnic minority groups to make an informed decision about participation in CRC screening.
Preserving fibre health: reducing oxidative stress throughout the life of the hair fibre
Authors: Marsh J. M. , Davis M. G. , Lucas R. L. , Reilman R. , Styczynski P. B. , Li C. , Mamak M. , McComb D. W. , Williams R. E. A. , Godfrey S. , Navqi K. R. , Chechik V.
Published: November 2015

Hair health is an important attribute to women globally – specifically attributes such as shine, healthy tips, frizz‐free and strength. However, many women will claim to have at least moderate hair damage caused by habits and practices such as washing, combing and brushing, use of heated implements and regular use of chemical treatments. The objective of this work was to investigate two mechanisms of damage – hair colouring and UV exposure – where oxidative processes are involved. The role of copper in these oxidative processes was then investigated: its presence in hair and its consequent impact on hair damage via free radical formation. Finally, the role of chelants N,N’‐ethylene diamine disuccinic acid (EDDS) and histidine in preventing free radical formation was investigated and shown to improve hair health.
Activation and dynamic expression of Notch signalling in dental pulp cells after injury in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Ma L. , Wang S. C. , Tong J. , Hu Y. , Zhang Y. Q. , Yu Q.
Published: November 2015

Aim

To investigate the expression pattern of Notch signalling in odontoblast‐like cells stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in vitro, and in injured rat dental pulp in vivo.

Methodology

Mouse odontoblast‐like cells (MDPC‐23) were exposed to LPS. Expression of Notch‐related genes was detected by real‐time PCR. A rat pulpitis model was established by mechanical injury and LPS plus mechanical injury was followed by the analysis of expression of Notch2 by immunohistochemical staining. One‐way analysis of variance (anova) was performed to examine the effect of differing concentrations of LPS on cell proliferation, and least significant difference test was used for paired comparisons. For independent sample, t‐test was performed to compare the expression of Notch signalling genes between LPS group and control group in vitro.

Results

The in vitro study revealed the proliferation of MDPC‐23 cells on exposure to 10 ng mL−1 to 1 μg mL−1 LPS. Expression of Notch1 and Notch2 was significantly higher in the LPS group than that in the control group on day 1 and day 3 (P ˂ 0.05). The levels of both Delta1 and Jagged1 were higher in the study group than in the control group on day 3 (P = 0.019 and P = 0.034) and day 5 (P ˂ 0.001 and P = 0.046), respectively. In addition, Hes1 levels were significantly higher in the study group than in the control group on day 5 (P = 0.005). The in vivo study demonstrated positive staining for Notch2, both in the mechanical injury (MI) group and in the LPS plus mechanical injury (LMI) group from day 3 to day 7, which showed very weak or absent staining on day 14, thereby demonstrating the dynamic nature of the change.

Conclusions

Both in vitro and in vivo activation and dynamic expression of Notch signalling in dental pulp cells after injury were found. Notch signalling activation by LPS stimulation or mechanical injury showed a similar pattern in vivo.
Sustainable clothing: challenges, barriers and interventions for encouraging more sustainable consumer behaviour
Authors: Harris Fiona , Roby Helen , Dibb Sally
Published: November 2015

Research with consumers has revealed limited awareness of the sustainability impact of clothing (Goworek et al., 2012). Semi‐structured interviews conducted with a range of experts in sustainable clothing to increase understanding of the challenges for sustainable clothing revealed that a focus on sustainability alone will not drive the necessary changes in consumers’ clothing purchase, care and disposal behaviour for three reasons: (i) clothing sustainability is too complex; (ii) consumers are too diverse in their ethical concerns and (iii) clothing is not an altruistic purchase. The findings identify the challenges that need to be addressed and the associated barriers for sustainable clothing. Interventions targeting consumers, suppliers, buyers and retailers are proposed that encourage more sustainable clothing production, purchase, care and disposal behaviour. These interventions range from normalizing the design of sustainable clothing and increasing the ease of purchase, to shifting clothes washing norms and increasing upcycling, recycling and repair.
The sibling effect on the consumption of phone services
Authors: Migheli Matteo
Published: November 2015

The peer effect is a relevant issue in studies on consumption habits and consumers’ behaviour. Indeed, the extant literature shows that peers and siblings affect individual decisions and choices, as people generally follow peers’ and siblings’ examples. In other words, people imitate their peers. Starting from the existing theoretical models and empirical evidence that suggest a relevant impact of peers on one's decisions, this article analyses how the presence and the gender of siblings affects one's consumption of phone services. I consider a sample of 500 European undergraduate students. In order to isolate the peer effect, I restrict the analysis to the use of the phone for talking with friends. The results show highlight a strong sibling effect, whose magnitude and whose sign depend on both the gender of the siblings and on that of the interviewee.
Complementing the inflammasome
Authors: Triantafilou Martha , Hughes Timothy R. , Morgan Bryan Paul , Triantafilou Kathy
Published: November 2015

The innate immune system is an ancient surveillance system able to sense microbial invaders as well as aberrations in normal cell function. No longer viewed as a static and non‐specific part of immunity, the innate immune system employs a plethora of specialized pattern recognition sensors to monitor and achieve homeostasis; these include the Toll‐like receptors, the retinoic acid‐inducible gene‐like receptors, the nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain receptors (NLRs), the C‐type lectins and the complement system. In order to increase specificity and diversity, innate immunity uses homotypic and heterotypic associations among these different components. Multi‐molecular assemblies are formed both on the cell surface and in the cytosol to respond to pathogen and danger signals. Diverse, but tailored, responses to a changing environment are orchestrated depending on the the nature of the challenge and the repertoire of interacting receptors and components available in the sensing cell. It is now emerging that innate immunity operates a system of ‘checks and balances’ where interaction among the sensors is key in maintaining normal cell function. Complement sits at the heart of this alarm system and it is becoming apparent that it is capable of interacting with all the other pathways to effect a tailored immune response. In this review, we will focus on complement interactions with NLRs, the so‐called ‘inflammasomes’, describing the molecular mechanisms that have been revealed so far and discussing the circumstantial evidence that exists for these interactions in disease states.
Cost‐effectiveness analysis of antiviral treatment in the management of seasonal influenza A: point‐of‐care rapid test versus clinical judgment
Authors: Nshimyumukiza Léon , Douville Xavier , Fournier Diane , Duplantie Julie , Daher Rana K. , Charlebois Isabelle , Longtin Jean , Papenburg Jesse , Guay Maryse , Boissinot Maurice , Bergeron Michel G. , Boudreau Denis , Gagné Christian , Rousseau François , Reinharz Daniel
Published: November 2015

Background

A point‐of‐care rapid test (POCRT) may help early and targeted use of antiviral drugs for the management of influenza A infection.

Objective

(i) To determine whether antiviral treatment based on a POCRT for influenza A is cost‐effective and, (ii) to determine the thresholds of key test parameters (sensitivity, specificity and cost) at which a POCRT based‐strategy appears to be cost effective.

Methods

An hybrid « susceptible, infected, recovered (SIR) » compartmental transmission and Markov decision analytic model was used to simulate the cost‐effectiveness of antiviral treatment based on a POCRT for influenza A in the social perspective. Data input parameters used were retrieved from peer‐review published studies and government databases. The outcome considered was the incremental cost per life‐year saved for one seasonal influenza season.

Results

In the base‐case analysis, the antiviral treatment based on POCRT saves 2 lives/100 000 person‐years and costs $7600 less than the empirical antiviral treatment based on clinical judgment alone, which demonstrates that the POCRT‐based strategy is dominant. In one and two way‐sensitivity analyses, results were sensitive to the POCRT accuracy and cost, to the vaccination coverage as well as to the prevalence of influenza A. In probabilistic sensitivity analyses, the POCRT strategy is cost‐effective in 66% of cases, for a commonly accepted threshold of $50 000 per life‐year saved.

Conclusion

The influenza antiviral treatment based on POCRT could be cost‐effective in specific conditions of performance, price and disease prevalence.
Ecological traits shape genetic diversity patterns across the Mediterranean Sea: a quantitative review on fishes
Authors: Dalongeville Alicia , Andrello Marco , Mouillot David , Albouy Camille , Manel Stéphanie
Published: November 2015

Aim

We set out to identify the determinants of the variation in genetic diversity among fish species and test whether multi‐species genetic diversity is randomly distributed in space.

Location

Mediterranean Sea.

Methods

We collected genetic diversity data from 39 published studies on Mediterranean fishes (31 species) along with the spatial coordinates of the sampling sites. We focused on microsatellite heterozygosity (151 data points) and mitochondrial haplotype diversity (201 data points). We used linear regressions to link genetic diversity and 11 ecological traits. We also tested for spatial autocorrelation and trends in the residuals.

Results

Among‐species variation in microsatellite heterozygosity was explained by three ecological traits: vertical distribution, migration type and body length. Variation in mitochondrial haplotype diversity was also explained by vertical distribution and migration type, and by reproductive strategy (semelparity). However, vertical distribution and migration type showed opposite effects on microsatellites and mitochondrial diversity. After accounting for the effects of ecological traits, no spatial pattern was detected, except for one of the species considered.

Main conclusions

Ecological factors explain an important proportion of the among‐species genetic diversity. These results suggest that life history strategies of the species influence the variation of microsatellite diversity indirectly through their effect on effective population size, while the spatial variations of genetic diversity seem to be too complex to be identified in our analysis. We found very different effects of traits on mitochondrial and nuclear DNA diversity, which can be explained by the specificities of mitochondrial DNA (absence of recombination, maternal inheritance and non‐neutrality).
Increased visceral adiposity with normal weight is associated with the prevalence of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Bouchi Ryotaro , Takeuchi Takato , Akihisa Momoko , Ohara Norihiko , Nakano Yujiro , Nishitani Rie , Murakami Masanori , Fukuda Tatsuya , Fujita Masamichi , Minami Isao , Mihara Masatomo , Yoshimoto Takanobu , Ogawa Yoshihiro
Published: November 2015

Aims/Introduction

To investigate the impact of increased visceral adiposity with normal weight (OB[−]VA[+]) on the prevalence of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study of 140 Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes (mean age 65 ± 11 year; 44.6% women). Visceral fat area (VFA; cm2) and liver attenuation index (LAI) were assessed by abdominal computed tomography. The patients were divided into four groups by VFA and body mass index (BMI; kg/m2) as follows: BMI <25 kg/m2 and VFA <100 cm2 (OB[−]VA[−]), BMI ≥25 kg/m2 and VFA <100 cm2 (OB[+]VA[−]), BMI <25 kg/m2 and VFA ≥100 cm2 (OB[−]VA[+]), and BMI ≥25 kg/m2 and VFA ≥100 cm2 (OB[+]VA[+]). Multivariate linear regression and logistic regression analysis were carried out to determine the impact of OB(−)VA(+) on LAI.

Results

In the present study, 25.0% were OB(−)VA(+) patients, where the LAI levels were lower (1.09 ± 0.22) than those in OB(−)VA(−) patients (1.23 ± 0.15), and were equivalent to those in OB(+)VA(+) patients (1.03 ± 0.26). In multivariate linear regression analysis, OB(−)VA(+) was independently associated with LAI (standardized β−0.212, P = 0.014). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, OB(−)VA(+) was a significant predictor of LAI <0.9 (odds ratio 5.88, 95% confidence interval 1.03−33.52, P = 0.046).

Conclusions

The present study provides evidence that increased visceral adiposity with normal weight is a strong predictor for the prevalence of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes.
Reconstruction method as an independent risk factor for the postoperative decrease in hemoglobin in stage I gastric cancer
Authors: Imamura Taisuke , Komatsu Shuhei , Ichikawa Daisuke , Kosuga Toshiyuki , Okamoto Kazuma , Konishi Hirotaka , Shiozaki Atsushi , Fujiwara Hitoshi , Otsuji Eigo
Published: November 2015

Background and Aim:

No study has compared the incidence of postoperative anemia between two reconstruction methods, Billroth‐I (B‐I) and Roux‐en‐Y (R‐Y) reconstructions, after distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer (GC). In this study, we wished to examine the postoperative decrease in hemoglobin (Hb) as an indicator of iron‐deficiency anemia.

Methods:

We investigated a total of 119 consecutive patients who underwent distal gastrectomy with B‐I or R‐Y reconstruction for Stage I GC between 2006 and 2012. We retrospectively assessed the clinical data, including Hb results, of the first 2 years after surgery.

Results:

Compared with B‐I reconstruction, R‐Y reconstruction was performed more frequently in older patients (P = 0.017), and it was associated with a longer surgical duration (P < 0.001), a larger amount of blood loss (P = 0.031), a higher incidence of stasis (P = 0.044), and a greater decrease in Hb for the first 2 years after surgery. Univariate and multivariate analyses identified that R‐Y reconstruction was the only risk factor (P = 0.0487; odds ratio = 2.755; 95% confidence interval = 1.01–7.91) for a decrease in Hb, independent of age, tumor location, postoperative complications, and other factors. In addition, an age ≥ 75 was identified as an independent risk factor for a decrease in Hb, particularly for patients underwent R‐Y reconstruction (P = 0.033; odds ratio = 6.99; 95% confidence interval = 1.15–68.3) according to the multivariate analysis.

Conclusions:

Billroth‐I reconstruction might be preferable for the purpose of preventing a decrease in Hb in stage I GC patients, particularly in older patients.
Elevated H2O2 levels in trinitrobenzene sulfate‐induced colitis rats contributes to visceral hyperalgesia through interaction with the transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 cation channel
Authors: Kogure Yoko , Wang Shenglan , Tanaka Koh‐ichi , Hao Yongbiao , Yamamoto Satoshi , Nishiyama Nobuyoshi , Noguchi Koichi , Dai Yi
Published: November 2015

Background and Aim:

Inflammatory bowel disease is associated with chronic abdominal pain. Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) is a well‐known pain sensor expressed in primary sensory neurons. Recent studies indicate that reactive oxygen species such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) may activate TRPA1.

Methods:

Colonic inflammation was induced by intra‐colonic administration of trinitrobenzene sulfate (TNBS) in adult male Sprague–Dawley rats. Visceromotor response (VMR) to colorectal distention (CRD) was recorded to evaluate the visceral hyperalgesia. Rats were sacrificed 1 day after treatment with saline or TNBS; colonic tissues from the inflamed region were removed and then processed to assess the H2O2 content. H2O2 scavenger N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine or a TRPA1 antagonist, HC‐030031, was intravenously administrated to the TNBS‐treated rats or saline‐treated rats. In a parallel experiment, intra‐colonic H2O2‐induced visceral hyperalgesia in naïve rats and the effect of intravenous HC‐030031 were measured based on the VMR to CRD.

Results:

Trinitrobenzene sulfate treatment resulted in significant increase in VMR to CRD at day 1. The H2O2 content in the inflamed region of the colon in TNBS‐treated rats was significantly higher than that of saline‐treated rats. N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine or HC‐030031 significantly suppressed the enhanced VMR in TNBS‐treated rats while saline‐treated rats remained unaffected. Moreover, blockade of TRPA1 activation by HC‐030031 significantly reversed the exogenous H2O2‐induced visceral hyperalgesia.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that H2O2 content of the colonic tissue is increased in the early stage of TNBS‐induced colitis. The increased H2O2 content may contribute to the visceral hyperalgesia by activating TRPA1.
Statin pretreatment inhibits the lipopolysaccharide‐induced epithelial‐mesenchymal transition via the downregulation of toll‐like receptor 4 and nuclear factor‐κB in human biliary epithelial cells
Authors: Kim Yangmi , Lee Eun Jeoung , Jang Hee Kyung , Kim Chan Hyung , Kim Dae‐Ghon , Han Joung‐Ho , Park Seon Mee
Published: November 2015

Background and Aim:

Epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) of biliary epithelial cells (BECs) plays an important role in biliary fibrosis. This study investigated the effects of simvastatin on the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced EMT and related signal pathways in BECs.

Methods:

Biliary epithelial cells were exposed to LPS (2 µg/mL) or transforming growth factor β1 (TGF‐β1) (5 ng/mL) for 5 days. The EMT was assessed by a gain of mesenchymal cell markers (vimentin, N‐cadherin, slug, and Twist‐1) and a loss of epithelial cell markers (E‐cadherin). The effects of simvastatin on the EMT induced by LPS or TGF‐β1 were determined by the changes in the levels of EMT markers and TLR4 and in the c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK), p38, and nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) signaling pathways.

Results:

Compared with the BECs treated with LPS alone, co‐treatment with simvastatin and LPS induced an increase in the expression of E‐cadherin and decreases in the expression levels of mesenchymal cell markers. The LPS‐induced TLR4 expression level was slightly decreased by co‐treatment with simvastatin. LPS‐induced BEC growth was markedly inhibited by co‐treatment with simvastatin. Furthermore, pretreatment with simvastatin inhibited the LPS‐induced EMT in BECs by downregulating NF‐κB and JNK phosphorylation. The suppressive effects of simvastatin pretreatment on the induction of the EMT by TGF‐β1 were also demonstrated in H69 cells.

Conclusions:

Our results demonstrate that LPS or TGF‐β1 promote the EMT in BECs that that pretreatment with simvastatin inhibited the induced EMT by downregulating toll‐like receptor 4 and NF‐κB phosphorylation. This finding suggests that simvastatin can be considered a new agent for preventing biliary fibrosis associated with the EMT of BECs.
Morphology and function of the palatal dentition in Choristodera
Authors: Matsumoto Ryoko , Evans Susan E.
Published: November 2015

Choristoderes are a group of extinct freshwater reptiles that were distributed throughout Laurasia from the Middle Jurassic to the Miocene. They are inferred to have had a lifestyle similar to that of extant gavialid crocodiles, but they differed from crocodiles in retaining an extensive palatal dentition. All choristoderes had teeth on the vomers, palatines and pterygoids, and teeth are rarely present on the parasphenoid. Palatal teeth are conical, as in the marginal dentition, and form longitudinal and transverse rows. Detailed examination of different genera shows that the orientation of the palatal tooth crowns changes with their position on the palate, supporting the view that they are involved in intra‐oral food transportation, presumably in combination with a fleshy tongue. Moreover, observed variation in palatal tooth shape and the width of palatal tooth batteries may provide additional clues about diet. The European Simoedosaurus lemoinei has sharper palatal teeth than its North American counterpart, S. dakotensis, suggesting a preference for softer prey – a conclusion consistent with the more gracile teeth and narrower snout.
Effects of Information Technology Capabilities on Strategic Alliances: Implications for the Resource‐Based View
Authors: Lioukas Constantinos S. , Reuer Jeffrey J. , Zollo Maurizio
Published: November 2015

This paper adopts a contingency approach to the resource‐based view (RBV) of the firm and seeks to establish boundary conditions for the value of certain information technology (IT) capabilities. We first identify inter‐organizational alliances as a specific strategy context in which IT capabilities are particularly valuable. We then consider more detailed boundary conditions that can shape the value of these capabilities within the alliance context. Our study shows that firms with better IT capabilities can derive greater value from an alliance, yet this effect also varies across different types of alliances depending on an individual alliance's characteristics. Specifically, IT capabilities are more valuable for alliances with a non‐equity governance structure, as well as those involving a high degree of interdependence between partners. We highlight the implications of our findings for opportunities to advance the RBV.
The effects of periodontal therapy on gingival crevicular fluid matrix metalloproteinase‐8, interleukin‐6 and prostaglandin E2 levels in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Kurgan Ş. , Fentoğlu Ö. , Önder C. , Serdar M. , Eser F. , Tatakis D. N. , Günhan M.
Published: November 2015

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of non‐surgical periodontal therapy on gingival crevicular fluid levels of matrix metalloproteinase‐8 (MMP‐8), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with periodontal disease.

Material and Methods

Twenty‐seven patients with gingivitis and periodontitis with RA, 26 patients with gingivitis and periodontitis that were systemically healthy and 13 periodontally and systemically healthy volunteers (control group) were included in this study. RA activity was assessed by disease activity score test. The clinical periodontal parameters, fasting venous blood and gingival crevicular fluid samples were obtained and gingival crevicular fluid MMP‐8, IL‐6 and PGE2 levels were evaluated at baseline and at 3 mo follow‐up after non‐surgical periodontal treatment.

Results

Gingival crevicular fluid MMP‐8, PGE2 and IL‐6 levels were higher in all groups than the control group. Following periodontal therapy, there were significant decreases in gingival crevicular fluid MMP‐8, PGE2 and IL‐6 levels from patients with RA with periodontitis (p < 0.05). Plaque index, gingival index and bleeding on probing were significantly correlated with IL‐6 and PGE2 at baseline and at 3 mo follow‐up after non‐surgical periodontal treatment.

Conclusion

Non‐surgical periodontal therapy of patients with RA with periodontitis may provide beneficial effects on local inflammatory control via decreases in gingival crevicular fluid MMP‐8, PGE2 and IL‐6 levels.
Converting to Continuity: Temporality and Self in Eastern Orthodox Conversion Narratives
Authors: Winchester Daniel
Published: November 2015

Based on interviews with converts to Eastern Orthodox Christianity in the United States, this article documents and analyzes a narrative form in which conversion is described as the progressive discovery of a latent religious self that was part of one's life all along, or what I term a conversion to continuity. These findings contrast markedly with those of most contemporary conversion research, which emphasize the narration of a dramatic temporal break between converts’ past and present religious selves (epitomized by the evangelical “born‐again” genre). I examine how and why temporal continuity was a characteristic feature of these conversion accounts and demonstrate how such narratives helped constitute forms of religious experience and self‐identity that differ in important respects from those documented in previous studies. In light of these findings, I argue for a reconceptualization of continuity and discontinuity within processes of religious identity change as an institutionally anchored figure/ground relationship as opposed to an either/or dichotomy. I also highlight promising avenues for future comparative research on the relationships between time, narrative, and subjectivity across religious and secular contexts.
God, Yoga, and Karate
Authors: Yi Joseph , Silver Daniel
Published: November 2015

We investigate the location patterns of organizations that embody key religious‐spiritual traditions and that have grown to prominence in the latter 20th and early 21st centuries: evangelical churches, yoga, and martial arts. The distribution of key cultural organizations depends on the degree to which they are able to frame themselves in relation to one another and to core American traditions. Organizations associated with the American religious divide are more polarized in their social appeal and spatial distributions, and those framed as broadly neutral elements of popular culture are more widely distributed. Using a national database of local amenities, we find that theologically conservative churches are popular in many neighborhoods but concentrated in less‐educated and nonwhite areas. Yoga studios are less geographically dispersed and more spatially concentrated in college‐educated and white areas. Compared to these, martial arts schools, sports clubs, and other pop‐culture amenities are more widely distributed across different types of areas.
The Pre‐Raphaelite School: Recent Approaches
Authors: Kilbride Laura
Published: November 2015

Criticism of literary Pre‐Raphaelitism has not kept pace with reappraisals of Pre‐Raphaelite visual arts. The assumption of easy translatability between the different idioms of poetry and the visual arts has led to an established canon of Pre‐Raphaelite poets, which may have short‐circuited sustained investigation into Pre‐Raphaelite poetic style. This article considers work published since 2008 by way of three connected challenges facing critics keen to test the appellation “Pre‐Raphaelite”, which I explore under the headings of ambidexterity, brotherhood and style.
Toward a Postsecular Eighteenth Century
Authors: Conway Alison , Harol Corrinne
Published: November 2015

The twenty‐first‐century “turns” to religion, to theology, and to postsecularity have challenged the central tenets of the secularization thesis, even at times proclaiming its end. But scholarship on eighteenth‐century British literature has not taken up – whether to defend or delegitimize secularization as fact or norm – the challenges posed by these developments as often as other fields. This essay discusses why this might be so, and it points to work, and avenues for work, that might prove fruitful in reevaluating the secularization thesis. It argues that eighteenth‐century literary critics should address the concerns and methods of postsecularism and that we have a special role to play in this area of scholarship.
The Literary History of World‐Systems, I: Marxist Lineages
Authors: Eatough Matthew
Published: November 2015

This essay is the first of a two‐part series on the use of world‐systems theory in literary studies. It argues that the recent popularity of world‐systems theory among literary scholars has raised important questions about how we practice literary history. Appeals to a more “global” configuration of world literary space seem to promise a more inclusive literary history, but world‐systems theory's expansive focus also clashes with literary studies' traditional definitions of cultural activity. In order to investigate this tension, the essay begins by examining the birth of world‐systems theory. It shows how world‐systems theory grew out of a number of intersecting currents in academic scholarship, including Marxist economics,dependistatheory, and Annales historiography. The essay then proceeds to trace literary studies' earliest engagements with world‐systems theory. As I show, these initial engagements took place within two distinct critical traditions: (1) in the Subaltern Studies project, which diagnosed intellectual production as an effect of the global division of labor; and (2) in Jamesonian Marxism, which attempted to map literature onto the world‐system under the aegis of a leftist Hegelianism. The essay concludes by analyzing how these projects have helped to redefine the nature of the relationship between literary production and economic systems.