bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epigallocatechin-3-gallate
Authors: Mahajan Deepak , Bhat Z.F. , Kumar Sunil
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to explore the possibility of utilization of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) as a novel preservative in cheese. EGCG has strong antioxidant and antimicrobial properties and may be commercially exploited as a natural antioxidant and preservative in cheese like products which are highly susceptible to lipid oxidation.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted to evaluate the possibility of using EGCG as a natural antioxidant and preservative in cheese. Kalari, a hard and dry cheese, was used as a model and treated with different concentrations of EGCG (0, 0.05 and 0.10 per cent) and aerobically packaged within low-density polyethylene pouches and assessed for oxidative stability and storage quality under refrigerated (4 ± 1°C) conditions.

Findings

EGCG showed a significant (p < 0.05) effect on the lipid oxidative stability as the treated products exhibited significantly (p < 0.05) lower thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (milligram malonaldehyde/kg) values. A significant (p < 0.05) effect was also observed on the microbiological characteristics of the products, as treated products showed significantly (p < 0.05) lower values for total plate count (log cfu/g), psychrophilic count (log cfu/g), yeast and mould count (log cfu/g) and free fatty acid (% oleic acid) values. Coliforms (log cfu/g) were not detected throughout the storage period. Significantly (p < 0.05) higher scores were observed for various sensory parameters of the treated products. EGCG successfully improved the oxidative stability and storage quality of Kalari.

Originality/value

The results suggest that EGCG might be useful to the dairy industry as an efficient alternative to synthetic antioxidants and preservatives.
Deformation behaviour of Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu (SAC305) solder wire under varied tensile strain rates
Authors: Abdullah Izhan , Zulkifli Muhammad Nubli , Jalar Azman , Ismail Roslina
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between microstructure and varied strain rates towards the mechanical properties and deformation behaviour of Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu (SAC305) lead-free solder wire at room temperature.

Design/methodology/approach

Tensile tests with different strain rates of 1.5 × 10−6, 1.5 × 10−5, 1.5 × 10−4, 1.5 × 10−3, 1.5 × 10−2 and 1.5 × 10−1 s−1 at room temperature of 25°C were carried out on lead-free Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu (SAC305) solder wire. Stress-strain curves and mechanical properties such as yield strength, ultimate tensile strength and elongation were determined from the tensile tests. A microstructure analysis was performed by measuring the average grain size and the aspect ratio of the grains.

Findings

It was observed that higher strain rates showed pronounced dynamic recrystallization on the stress-strain curve. The increase in the strain rates also decreased the grain size of the SAC305 solder wire. It was found that higher strain rates had a pronounced effect on changing the deformation or shape of the grain in a longitudinal direction. An increase in the strain rates increased the tensile strength and ductility of the SAC solder wire. The primary deformation mechanism for strain rates below 1.5 × 10−1 s−1 was grain boundary sliding, whereas the deformation mechanism for strain rates of 1.5 × 10−1 s−1 was diffusional creep.

Originality/value

Most of the studies regarding the deformation behaviour of lead-free solder usually consider the effect of the elevated temperature. For the current analysis, the effect of the temperature is kept constant at room temperature to analyze the deformation of lead-free solder wire solely because of changes of strain rates, and this is the originality of this paper.
Can smartphones measure momentary quality of life and participation? A proof of concept using experience sampling surveys with university students
Authors: Liddle Jacki , Wishink Anna , Springfield Liz , Gustafsson Louise , Ireland David , Silburn Peter
Published: April 2017

Background

Understanding quality of life and participation is a key aspect of occupational therapy research. The use of smartphones to deliver experience‐sampling surveys may provide an accessible way to monitor these outcomes. This study used smartphone‐based experience sampling methods (ESM) to investigate factors influencing momentary quality of life (mQOL) of university students.

Methods

A convenience sample of students at an Australian university participated. Using a custom smartphone application, ESM surveys were sent six to eight times, every second day, over a week. Participants indicated their mQOL, occupational participation, occupational enjoyment, social context and location via surveys and provided demographic and health information in a single self‐report questionnaire. The relationship between mQOL and variables was analysed at the survey level using logistic regression.

Results

Forty students completed 391 surveys. Higher mQOL was significantly related to participation in productive occupations (z = 3.48; P = 0.001), moderate (z = 4.00; P < 0.001) or high occupational enjoyment (z = 7.06; P < 0.001), being with someone (z = 2.15, P = 0.031), being at home (z = 2.49; P = 0.013) and an excellent self‐rated health status (z = 2.35; P = 0.019). The magnitude of differences in mQOL was small.

Conclusion

This study suggests that mQOL amongst university students relates to personal, environmental and occupational factors. The use of smartphone‐based ESM appears to be a practical approach for investigating participation and QOL. Further research utilising a more diverse sample, analysing at the individual level, and using ESM in conjunction with other methodologies is recommended.
The Accuracy of Senior Households’ Estimates of Home Values: Application to the Reverse Mortgage Decision
Authors: Haurin Donald , Moulton Stephanie , Shi Wei
Published: April 2017

Using a unique data set of more than 14,000 senior homeowners in the United States, this study compares self‐assessed home values to arm's length contemporaneous appraisals. In a sample of seniors who received counseling for a reverse mortgage, the absolute value of the assessment error averages 18.9% of appraised value and it is biased upwards by 13.4%. When adjusted to reflect the general population of seniors, the size and bias of the average error fall to 16.1% and 4.2%. Both the bias and the size of the error tend to be lower for households with higher income and credit scores but it is greater for black households. In our sample period of 2009–2011, house prices were falling. The greater the rate of price reduction, the greater is the upward bias and size of the assessment error. When seniors who applied for a reverse mortgage learn that they overvalued their home, their probability of closing the loan falls.
Age Estimation of Infants Through Metric Analysis of Developing Anterior Deciduous Teeth
Authors: Viciano Joan , De Luca Stefano , Irurita Javier , Alemán Inmaculada
Published: April 2017

This study provides regression equations for estimation of age of infants from the dimensions of their developing deciduous teeth. The sample comprises 97 individuals of known sex and age (62 boys, 35 girls), aged between 2 days and 1,081 days. The age‐estimation equations were obtained for the sexes combined, as well as for each sex separately, thus including “sex” as an independent variable. The values of the correlations and determination coefficients obtained for each regression equation indicate good fits for most of the equations obtained. The “sex” factor was statistically significant when included as an independent variable in seven of the regression equations. However, the “sex” factor provided an advantage for age estimation in only three of the equations, compared to those that did not include “sex” as a factor. These data suggest that the ages of infants can be accurately estimated from measurements of their developing deciduous teeth.
Provenance Establishment of Stingless Bee Honey Using Multi‐element Analysis in Combination with Chemometrics Techniques
Authors: Shadan Aidil Fahmi , Mahat Naji A. , Wan Ibrahim Wan Aini , Ariffin Zaiton , Ismail Dzulkiflee
Published: April 2017

As consumption of stingless bee honey has been gaining popularity in many countries including Malaysia, ability to identify accurately its geographical origin proves pertinent for investigating fraudulent activities for consumer protection. Because a chemical signature can be location‐specific, multi‐element distribution patterns may prove useful for provenancing such product. Using the inductively coupled‐plasma optical emission spectrometer as well as principal component analysis (PCA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA), the distributions of multi‐elements in stingless bee honey collected at four different geographical locations (North, West, East, and South) in Johor, Malaysia, were investigated. While cross‐validation using PCA demonstrated 87.0% correct classification rate, the same was improved (96.2%) with the use of LDA, indicating that discrimination was possible for the different geographical regions. Therefore, utilization of multi‐element analysis coupled with chemometrics techniques for assigning the provenance of stingless bee honeys for forensic applications is supported.
EXPLAINING THE GENDER GAP IN CRIME: THE ROLE OF HEART RATE
Authors: CHOY OLIVIA , RAINE ADRIAN , VENABLES PETER H. , FARRINGTON DAVID P.
Published: April 2017

Although it is well established that males engage in more crime compared with females, little is known about what accounts for the gender gap. Few studies have been aimed at empirically examining mediators of the gender–crime relationship in a longitudinal context. In this study, we test the hypothesis that a low resting heart rate partly mediates the relationship between gender and crime. In a sample of 894 participants, the resting heart rate at 11 years of age was examined alongside self‐reported and official conviction records for overall criminal offending, violence, serious violence, and drug‐related crime at 23 years of age. A low resting heart rate partially mediated the relationship between gender and all types of adult criminal offending, including violent and nonviolent crime. The mediation effects were significant after controlling for body mass index, race, social adversity, and activity level. Resting heart rate accounted for 5.4 percent to 17.1 percent of the gender difference in crime. This study is the first to produce results documenting that lower heart rates in males partly explain their higher levels of offending. Our findings complement traditional theoretical accounts of the gender gap and have implications for the advancement of integrative criminological theory.
Interactions between general and central obesity in predicting gestational diabetes mellitus in Chinese pregnant women: A prospective population‐based study in Tianjin, China
Authors: Han Qian , Shao Ping , Leng Junhong , Zhang Cuiping , Li Wei , Liu Guifeng , Zhang Yuanyuan , Li Yi , Li Zhe , Ren Yanfeng , Chan Juliana C.N. , Yang Xilin
Published: April 2017

Background

The aim of the present study was to define cut‐off points of body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and to investigate any interactions between high BMI and high WC on the risk of GDM in pregnant Chinese women.

Methods

From 2010 to 2012, 17 803 women in Tianjin, China, who were at 4–12 weeks gestation were recruited to the study. Gestational diabetes mellitus was diagnosed according to the criteria of the International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Group at 24–28 weeks gestation. Binary logistic regression was used to obtain odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) while controlling for the confounding effects of traditional risk factors. Restricted cubic spline was used to identify cut‐off points of WC and BMI, if any, for GDM.

Results

Gestational diabetes mellitus developed in 1383 (7.8%) women. The risk of GDM increased steeply with increasing WC from ≥78.5 cm and BMI ≥22.5 kg/m2. If BMI <22.5 kg/m2 and WC <78.5 cm were used as the reference, BMI between ≥22.5 and <24.0 kg/m2 (multivariable OR 1.76; 95%CI 1.47–2.10) and WC between ≥78.5 and <85.0 cm (multivariable OR 1.53; 95%CI 1.31–1.78) were independently associated with increased risks of GDM. In addition, the presence of both BMI ≥22.5 kg/m2 and WC ≥78.5 cm further increased the OR to 2.83 (95% CI 2.44–3.28), with significant additive interaction.

Conclusions

Body mass index ≥22.5 kg/m2 and WC ≥78.5 cm measured up to 12 weeks of gestation were independently and synergistically associated with increased risks of GDM in Chinese pregnant women.
Responsible RAD: Striving for best practices in population genomic studies of adaptation
Authors: Lowry David B. , Hoban Sean , Kelley Joanna L. , Lotterhos Katie E. , Reed Laura K. , Antolin Michael F. , Storfer Andrew
Published: April 2017

Two recent articles were written in response to our paper “Breaking RAD: An evaluation of the utility of restriction site associated DNA sequencing scans of adaptation.” While we agree with some of the comments made by the authors of these two response papers, we still believe caution should be employed in RADseq studies that aim to detect loci that contribute to adaptation. In this rebuttal, we evaluate the key points made in these papers, attempt to identify a middle ground and make suggestions for responsibly conducting future studies to understand the genomewide mechanisms of adaptation.
A new promising phylogenetic marker to study the diversity of fungal communities: The Glycoside Hydrolase 63 gene
Authors: Pérez‐Izquierdo L. , Morin E. , Maurice J. P. , Martin F. , Rincón A. , Buée M.
Published: April 2017

In molecular ecology, the development of efficient molecular markers for fungi remains an important research domain. Nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region was proposed as universal DNA barcode marker for fungi, but this marker was criticized for Indel‐induced alignment problems and its potential lack of phylogenetic resolution. Our main aim was to develop a new phylogenetic gene and a putative functional marker, from single‐copy gene, to describe fungal diversity. Thus, we developed a series of primers to amplify a polymorphic region of the Glycoside Hydrolase GH63 gene, encoding exo‐acting α‐glucosidases, in basidiomycetes. These primers were validated on 125 different fungal genomic DNAs, and GH63 amplification yield was compared with that of already published functional markers targeting genes coding for laccases, N‐acetylhexosaminidases, cellobiohydrolases and class II peroxidases. Specific amplicons were recovered for 95% of the fungal species tested, and GH63 amplification success was strikingly higher than rates obtained with other functional genes. We downloaded the GH63 sequences from 483 fungal genomes publicly available at the JGI mycocosm database. GH63 was present in 461 fungal genomes belonging to all phyla, except Microsporidia and Neocallimastigomycota divisions. Moreover, the phylogenetic trees built with both GH63 and Rpb1 protein sequences revealed that GH63 is also a promising phylogenetic marker. Finally, a very high proportion of GH63 proteins was predicted to be secreted. This molecular tool could be a new phylogenetic marker of fungal species as well as potential indicator of functional diversity of basidiomycetes fungal communities in term of secretory capacities.
GET REAL, PLEASE
Authors: GOFFEE ROB , JONES GARETH
Published: April 2017

As faith in big business ebbs and flows, there has never been a greater need for companies to keep it real. By Rob Goffee and Gareth Jones
Dentistry and criminal law
Authors: Khoury BS , Khoury JN
Published: April 2017

Criminal law in dentistry, as shaped and moulded by the prevailing views of society, defines what is or is not socially acceptable. It applies in both personal and professional contexts with the intended consequence of protecting the public from unacceptable conduct and potential imbalances of power. At its centre, a patient's consent plays a pivotal role in transforming unlawful conduct into lawful conduct. This literature review considers the current law and the trend of utilizing criminal law in addition to non‐criminal law alternatives of reprimanding clinicians for failure to achieve consent in the course of dental practice. Dentists must appreciate this change and the prosecuting authority's increasing willingness to resort to criminal law.
Leukocyte counts and lymphocyte subsets in relation to pregnancy and HIV infection in Malawian women
Authors: Mandala Wilson L. , Gondwe Esther N. , Molyneux Malcolm E. , MacLennan Jenny M. , MacLennan Calman A.
Published: April 2017

Problem

We investigated leukocyte and lymphocyte subsets in HIV‐infected or HIV‐uninfected, pregnant or non‐pregnant Malawian women to explore whether HIV infection and pregnancy may act synergistically to impair cellular immunity.

Method of study

We recruited 54 pregnant and 48 non‐pregnant HIV‐uninfected women and 24 pregnant and 20 non‐pregnant HIV‐infected Malawian women. We compared peripheral blood leukocyte and lymphocyte subsets between women in the four groups.

Results

Parturient HIV‐infected and HIV‐uninfected women had more neutrophils (each P<.0001), but fewer lymphocytes (P<.0001; P=.0014) than non‐pregnant women. Both groups had fewer total T cells (P<.0001; P=.002) and CD8+ T cells (P<.0001; P=.014) than non‐pregnant women. HIV‐uninfected parturient women had fewer CD4+ and γδ T cells, B and NK cells (each P<.0001) than non‐pregnant women. Lymphocyte subset percentages were not affected by pregnancy.

Conclusion

Malawian women at parturition have an increased total white cell count due to neutrophilia and an HIV‐unrelated pan‐lymphopenia.
Long‐acting recombinant follicle‐stimulating hormone in random‐start ovarian stimulation protocols for fertility preservation in women with cancer
Authors: Sarais Veronica , Paffoni Alessio , Pagliardini Luca , Filippi Francesca , Martinelli Fabio , Mangili Giorgia , Candiani Massimo , Papaleo Enrico
Published: April 2017

Introduction

The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness and potential benefits of the use of long‐acting recombinant follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) in a random‐start protocol for fertility preservation in women with cancer.

Material and methods

This is a retrospective before‐and‐after study performed between February 2013 and December 2015 in women who underwent ovarian hyperstimulation for oocyte cryobanking using a random‐start approach. In the first part of the study period, the women were treated with daily recombinant FSH whereas in the second part the stimulation was initiated with long‐acting recombinant FSH. The primary aim of the study was to compare the number of oocytes stored in the two study periods. In all, 140 women were ultimately selected.

Results

Compared with daily recombinant FSH, the use of the long‐acting compound was associated with a reduced number of injections (12.5 ± 3.5 vs. 16.4 ± 0.3; p < 0.001) and a longer duration of stimulation (11.4 ± 1.9 vs. 10.6 ± 1.9, p = 0.01). Conversely, the number of oocytes collected (13.7 ± 9.5 vs. 11.3 ± 7.0, p = 0.10) as well as those cryopreserved (11.0 ± 8.0 vs. 9.5 ± 5.8, p = 0.21) did not differ.

Conclusions

The use of long‐acting recombinant FSH in random‐start protocols for fertility preservation appears to be a valuable option.
Cities’ economic development efforts in a changing global economy: content analysis of economic development plans in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Cleave Evan , Arku Godwin , Chatwin Merlin
Published: April 2017

Over the past few years, cities have been increasingly adopting a written plan to guide economic development processes. This is in sharp contrast to past practices which were haphazard and unsystematic. So far, there has been no comprehensive overview of the policies, strategies and focus of these written documents. Focusing on the Province of Ontario, Canada, we undertook a systematic content analysis of the most recent documents for each city. Specific codes were developed for the analysis of the documents. While the majority of cities in Ontario were identified as having codified a formal economic development plan (a plan was identified in 41 of 51 cities), there was considerable variability in how the plans were developed (such as through the use of private consultants) and presented, with noticeable differences in the information given about the community, complexity of analysis conducted and the details on the economic development policies that are being pursued. Despite the range of document formats, there was notable uniformity in the content of the policy directives that were presented. In terms of economic development focus, traditional manufacturing is essentially ignored in favour of attracting advanced manufacturing and knowledge‐based industries. Additionally, due to the extensive reliance on private external consultants, the plans have a homogenous nature, where contemporary ideas such as diversification, place branding and marketing, downtown redevelopment, focus on creative and knowledge industries, and tourism are constantly regurgitated. Conspicuously missing among the strategies were regional collaborations and cluster development. Although the adoption of a written plan represents an important milestone in local economic development policymaking, a number of key limitations were identified within the current documents, and the paper offers direction for a more effective future policy development.
Characteristics, management, and outcomes of patients with follicular dendritic cell sarcoma
Authors: Jain Preetesh , Milgrom Sarah A. , Patel Keyur P. , Nastoupil Loretta , Fayad Luis , Wang Michael , Pinnix Chelsea C. , Dabaja Bouthaina S. , Smith Grace L. , Yu Jun , Hu Shimin , Bueso Ramos Carlos E. , Kanagal‐Shamanna Rashmi , Medeiros L. Jeffrey , Oki Yasuhiro , Fowler Nathan
Published: April 2017

Dendritic cell sarcomas are rare tumours of antigen presenting cells. Data regarding their biology, management and outcomes are sparse. We analysed 66 patients with follicular dendritic cell sarcoma (FDCS). Six patients also had Castleman disease, 9 had another malignancy and 13 had an autoimmune disease. Fifty‐four per cent of patients presented with localized disease and 46% with systemic involvement. The median progression‐free (PFS) and overall survival (OS) following frontline therapy was 21 and 50 months, respectively. Survival outcomes were significantly inferior in patients with extranodal, bulky or intra‐abdominal disease at presentation. Stage was not associated with survival. Management approaches were heterogeneous. Patients who underwent an upfront gross total resection (GTR) experienced better PFS and OS (both P < 0·0001). In patients who underwent a GTR, consolidative radiotherapy was associated with improved local control (P = 0·03), PFS (P = 0·04) and OS (P = 0·05). In patients with measureable disease, gemcitabine with a taxane yielded an overall response rate of 80%. The pattern of relapse was predominantly locoregional. Salvage rates after recurrence were poor. Studies are underway at our institution to define the genomic profile in FDCS and identify potential novel therapeutic targets.
Glacial geomorphology of the Northeast Newfoundland Shelf: ice‐stream switching and widespread glaciotectonics
Authors: Shaw John , Longva Oddvar
Published: April 2017

Analysis of Olex bathymetry, multibeam sonar and seismic survey data, shows that, perhaps during the mid Pleistocene, grounded ice crossing the Northeast Newfoundland Shelf was topographically steered in Hawke Saddle, occupied a broad trough underlying much of Belle Isle Bank and present‐day Notre Dame Trough, and deposited ~100 m of stacked glacigenic sediment; grounded ice crossed southern Funk Island Bank and occupied Notre Dame Trough. During the Wisconsinan Stage, c. 30 cal. ka BP, flow remained topographically steered in Hawke Saddle, but due to flow switching two convergent ice streams incised the stacked sediments of the earlier phase, creating the modern Notre Dame Trough, and diverging around an erosional remnant near the shelf edge. The ice margin at the Last Glacial Maximum (c. 18 14C ka BP) was at the shelf edge in Trinity Trough but far to the west elsewhere. Retreating ice did not stabilize at fjord mouths, but halted several times within fjords. Shelf morphology was shaped by glaciotectonism. The large tectonized zone on the north flank of Notre Dame Trough was created by the northernmost of the two convergent streams. Glaciotectonism was most widespread in the enclosed St. Anthony Basin, where the Quaternary cover has been stripped away, arrays of composite ridges have formed and sediment blocks have been thrust onto the adjacent bank. A large hill‐hole pair was formed on the east side of the basin, extending onto Belle Isle Bank. A hill‐hole pair on the inner shelf was formed by ice flow from the northwest into Notre Dame Channel. Evidence of widespread glaciotectonism distinguishes this relatively deep shelf from the adjoining, relatively shallow, eastern Canadian shelves, but has strong parallels with parts of the Norwegian continental shelf where methane hydrates maybe played a role in regulating ice‐stream flow.
Socioeconomic factors and survival in patients with non‐metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Xu Cheng , Chen Yu‐Pei , Liu Xu , Tang Ling‐Long , Chen Lei , Mao Yan‐Ping , Zhang Yuan , Guo Rui , Zhou Guan‐Qun , Li Wen‐Fei , Lin Ai‐Hua , Sun Ying , Ma Jun
Published: April 2017

The effect of socioeconomic factors on receipt of definitive treatment and survival outcomes in non‐metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remains unclear. Eligible patients (n = 37 995) were identified from the United States Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database between 2007 and 2012. Socioeconomic factors (i.e., median household income, education level, unemployment rate, insurance status, marital status and residence) were included in univariate/multivariate Cox regression analysis; validated factors were used to generate nomograms for cause‐specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS), and a prognostic score model for risk stratification. Low‐ and high‐risk groups were compared for all cancer subsites. Impact of race/ethnicity on survival was investigated in each risk group. Marital status, median household income and insurance status were included in the nomograms for CSS and OS, which had higher c‐indexes than the 6th edition TNM staging system (all P < 0.001). Based on three disadvantageous socioeconomic factors (i.e., unmarried status, uninsured status, median household income <US $65 394), the prognostic score model generated four risk subgroups with scores of 0, 1, 2 or 3, which had significantly separated CSS/OS curves (all P < 0.001). Low‐risk patients (score 0–1) were more likely to receive definitive treatment and obtain better CSS/OS than high‐risk patients (score 2–3). Chinese and non‐Hispanic black patients with high‐risk socioeconomic status had best and poorest CSS/OS, respectively. Therefore, marital status, median household income and insurance status have significance for predicting survival outcomes. Low‐risk socioeconomic status and Chinese race/ethnicity confer protective effects in HNSCC.
Factors influencing pre‐operative urinary calcium excretion in primary hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Kaderli Reto M. , Riss Philipp , Geroldinger Angelika , Selberherr Andreas , Scheuba Christian , Niederle Bruno
Published: April 2017

Objective

Normal or elevated 24‐hour urinary calcium (Ca) excretion is a diagnostic marker in primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT). It is used to distinguish familial hypocalciuric hypercalcaemia (FHH) from PHPT by calculating the Ca/creatinine clearance ratio (CCCR). The variance of CCCR in patients with PHPT is considerable. The aim of this study was to analyse the parameters affecting CCCR in patients with PHPT.

Design

The data were collected prospectively. Patients with sporadic PHPT undergoing successful surgery were included in a retrospective analysis.

Patients

The analysis covered 381 patients with pre‐operative workup 2 days before removal of a solitary parathyroid adenoma.

Measurements

The impact of serum Ca and 25‐hydroxyvitamin D3 (25‐OH D3) on CCCR.

Results

The coefficient of determination (R2) in the multivariable model for CCCR consisting of age, Ca, 25‐OH D3, 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25‐(OH)2 D3), testosterone (separately for males and females), intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) and osteocalcin was 25.8%. The only significant parameters in the multivariable analysis were 1,25‐(OH)2 D3 and osteocalcin with a drop in R2 of 15.4% (P<.001) and 2.4% (P=.006), respectively. Bone mineral densities at the lumbar spine, distal radius and left femoral neck were not associated with CCCR (r=−.08, r=−.10 and r=−0.09).

Conclusions

In multivariable analysis, 1,25‐(OH)2 D3 and osteocalcin were the only factors correlating with CCCR. Vitamin D3 replacement may therefore impair the diagnostic value of CCCR and increase the importance of close monitoring of urinary Ca excretion during treatment.
Trends in anecdotal fox sightings in Tasmania accounted for by psychological factors
Authors: Marks Clive A. , Clark Malcolm , Obendorf David , Hall Graham P. , Soares Inês , Pereira Filipe
Published: April 2017

There has been little evaluation of anecdotal sightings as a means to confirm new incursions of invasive species. This paper explores the potential for equivocal information communicated by the media to account for patterns of anecdotal reports. In 2001, it was widely reported that red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) had been deliberately released in the island state of Tasmania (Australia), although this claim was later revealed to be baseless. Regardless, by 2013 a total of 3153 anecdotal fox sightings had been reported by members of the public, which implied their distribution was wide. For each month in 2001–2003, we defined a monthly media index (MMI) of fox‐related media coverage, an index of their relative seasonal abundance (abundance), and a factor denoting claims of fox evidence (claimed evidence) regardless of its evidentiary quality. We fitted a generalized linear model with Poisson error for monthly totals of anecdotal sightings with factors of year and claimed evidence and covariates of MMI, abundance, and hours of darkness. The collective effect of psychological factors (MMI, claimed evidence, and year) relative to biophysical factors (photoperiod and abundance) was highly significant (χ2 = 122.1, df = 6, p < 0.0001), whereas anticipated changes in abundance had no significant influence on reported sightings (p = 0.15). An annual index of fox media from 2001 to 2010 was strongly associated with the yearly tally of anecdotal sightings (p = 0.018). The odds ratio of sightings ranked as reliable by the fox eradication program in any year decreased exponentially at a rate of 0.00643 as the total number of sightings increased (p < 0.0001) and was indicative of an observer‐expectancy bias. Our results suggest anecdotal sightings are highly susceptible to cognitive biases and when used to qualify and quantify species presence can contribute to flawed risk assessments.
X‐ray computed tomography reveals that intraspecific competition promotes soldier differentiation in a one‐piece nesting termite
Authors: Aguilera‐Olivares Daniel , Palma‐Onetto Valeria , Flores‐Prado Luis , Zapata Víctor , Niemeyer Hermann M.
Published: April 2017

Investment in soldier production in eusocial lineages involves a trade‐off between maintenance costs and defense benefits. Termites are eusocial insects that live in colonies organized into three castes: primary reproductives, soldiers, and workers or pseudergates. Neotermes chilensis (Blanchard) (Isoptera: Kalotermitidae) is a one‐piece nesting termite that nests and forages in a single piece of wood. Two scenarios may be of importance in a defense context of one‐piece nesting termites: during swarms, when colonies may be invaded by winged termites (alates) in search of a place to found a new colony, and when colonies of conspecifics are present within the same substrate. It was hypothesized that the ratio of soldiers to non‐soldiers would be higher at the onset of the swarming period and in substrates bearing more than one termite colony. A method based on X‐ray computed tomography (CT) was developed to study gallery connectivity in colonies of N. chilensis and caste composition within colonies. Computed tomography allowed the digital reconstruction of the galleries within the substrate, even when they belonged to different colonies, and was effective in distinguishing termites from substrate, and soldiers from reproductives and pseudergates. Using CT, the ratio of soldiers to non‐soldiers was shown to be highest in colonies within multicolonial scapes (i.e., neighboring colonies were present in the same substrate) during the swarming season, thus supporting our initial hypotheses. These results constitute a unique example of induced defenses arising from intraspecific interactions in termites.
Standardization of multivariate regression models for estimation of the gregariousness level of the main pest locust
Authors: Martín‐Blázquez R. , Bakkali M.
Published: April 2017

Recurrent locust population outbreaks have a tremendous impact on ecosystems and economies around the globe. These population outbreaks are associated with a shift from the usual solitary locust phase to a gregarious one. Most molecular research on locusts is focused on uncovering the basis underlying the change to gregariousness. With the increasing availability of ‘omics’ data, the research on this subject is entering a functional testing era. In order to successfully test functionality of a gene or molecule, quantitative measurements of the level of gregariousness are needed. Currently no valid molecular marker is available, thus the assessment of the degree of locust gregariousness is based on mathematical modeling. However, the absence of one single model means heterogeneity and implies that researchers have to spend time and effort building one for their specific experiments. Here, we offer a script to simplify extraction of the data from locust behavioral video tracks. We also suggest two mathematical equations for assessing the levels of gregariousness of one of the most notorious pest locusts – Schistocerca gregaria (Forskål) (Orthoptera: Acrididae). One model uses morphometric variables and is valid for the comparison of nymphs, whereas the other has no morphometric variables and is for testing the adults and the same specimens of non‐molted nymphs. The sensitivity of these models was optimized and the effects of sex, developmental stage, and locust size were considered. The models were tested with independent samples and were found to work both for solitary and gregarious locusts. They were also found to be quantitative and could be used to distinguish populations of different densities and states. We therefore offer accessible, reliable, time, and effort‐saving tools for researchers to use. The use of these models by multiple laboratories would standardize and homogenize methodologies to the benefit of reliable results and interpretations.
A first Czech analysis of 1887 cases with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance
Authors: Sandecká Viera , Hájek Roman , Pour Luděk , Špička Ivan , Ščudla Vlastimil , Gregora Evžen , Radocha Jakub , Walterová Lenka , Kessler Petr , Zahradová Lenka , Adamová Dagmar , Valentova Kamila , Vonke Ivan , Obernauerová Jarmila , Starostka David , Wróbel Marek , Brožová Lucie , Jarkovský Jiří , Mikulášová Aneta , Říhová Lucie , Ševčíková Sabina , Straub Ján , Minařík Jiří , Adam Zdeněk , Krejčí Marta , Král Zdeněk , Maisnar Vladimír ,   the Czech Myeloma Group
Published: April 2017

Introduction

Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) is a premalignant condition with a risk of malignant conversion.

Patients and methods

With the aim to estimate the cumulative risk MGUS progression to hematologic malignancies, we analyzed a nationwide population‐based cohort of 1887 MGUS patients from the Czech Registry of Monoclonal Gammopathies (RMG) between 2007 and 2013.

Results

During the follow‐up period (median 4 years; range 0.6‐34.8), progression to hematologic malignancies was observed in 8.6% (162 of 1887) of patients. Factors associated with progression were as follows: M‐protein concentration ≥1.5 g/dL, pathological sFLC (<0.26 or >1.65) ratio, bone marrow plasma cells (BMPCs) in cytology >5%, immunoparesis, age ≥69 years, and the level of serum hemoglobin at baseline <12.0 g/dL. Combining these factors, we propose a new risk model (CMG model). The risk of progression at 10 years was 1.6%, 16.9%, 22.9%, 39.4%, and 52.3%, respectively, if 0 (reference group), one, two, three, or four to five risk factors are present (P<.001) with HR 63 times higher compared to the reference MGUS group.

Conclusion

The new CMG model was established with an advantage for better identification of MGUS patients at low risk.
ADP‐ribosylation: new facets of an ancient modification
Authors: Palazzo Luca , Mikoč Andreja , Ahel Ivan
Published: April 2017

Rapid response to environmental changes is achieved by uni‐ and multicellular organisms through a series of molecular events, often involving modification of macromolecules, including proteins, nucleic acids and lipids. Amongst these, ADP‐ribosylation is of emerging interest because of its ability to modify different macromolecules in the cells, and its association with many key biological processes, such as DNA‐damage repair, DNA replication, transcription, cell division, signal transduction, stress and infection responses, microbial pathogenicity and aging. In this review, we provide an update on novel pathways and mechanisms regulated by ADP‐ribosylation in organisms coming from all kingdoms of life.
Database selection in systematic reviews: an insight through clinical neurology
Authors: Vassar Matt , Yerokhin Vadim , Sinnett Philip Marcus , Weiher Matthew , Muckelrath Halie , Carr Branden , Varney Laura , Cook Gregory
Published: April 2017

Background

Failure to perform a comprehensive search when designing a systematic review (SR) can lead to bias, reducing the validity of review's conclusions.

Objective

We examined the frequency and choice of databases used by reviewers in clinical neurology.

Methods

Ninety‐five SRs and/or meta‐analyses were located across five prominent neurology journals between 2008 and 2014. Methods sections were reviewed, and all bibliographic databases were coded.

Results

On average, 2.59 databases were used in SR searches. Seven reviews included an information specialist, and these reviews reported a greater number of information sources used during the search process. Thirty‐nine databases were reported across studies. PubMed/MEDLINE® and EMBASE were cited most frequently.

Discussion

Searching too few databases may reduce the validity and generalisability of SR results. We found that the majority of systematic reviewers in clinical neurology do not search an adequate number of databases, which may yield a biased sample of primary studies and, thus, may influence the accuracy of summary effects.

Conclusions

Systematic reviewers should aim to search a sufficient number of databases to minimise selection bias. Additionally, systematic reviewers should include information specialists in designing SR methodology, as this may improve systematic review quality.
Tracing the ‘grey literature’ of poster presentations: a mapping review
Authors: Rowe Nicholas
Published: April 2017

Background

Posters are a popular way of presenting information at conferences. However, little research has been conducted into their development, and the patterns and extent of their use are unclear.

Objectives

A mapping review was performed to chart the development and utilisation of the poster medium, and to highlight the main literature themes and contributions.

Methods

A search for the term ‘poster presentation’ was conducted simultaneously in 249 databases. Results were categorised by discipline and analysed by decade. The results were used to form an informetric‐based mapping review.

Results

(i) Medicine and health care disciplines are the predominant poster users and since 1990 have accounted for 68–75% of the overall published data. (ii) Over 99% of the returns led only to abstract or title citations for conference posters. (iii) Poster presentations offer much potentially useful information, but remain difficult to access.

Conclusions

If the aim of poster presentation is to share and discuss information with others, then the limitations of poster abstracts and questions raised in the retrieved literature suggest that further efforts are required to make this more effective. Library and information specialists of all disciplines are likely to play a key role in such developments, and especially those from the medicine and health care disciplines which feature so prominently.
Questions of Legitimacy in Probation Practice after Transforming Rehabilitation
Authors: DEERING JOHN , FEILZER MARTINA Y.
Published: April 2017

In this article, we discuss the impact of changes to the organisational structure of probation on the legitimacy of probation practice. In particular, we explore how the division of probation into the National Probation Service (NPS) and Community Rehabilitation Companies (CRCs) could affect the self‐legitimacy felt by probation practitioners in both organisations and the implications for probation of a possible lack of overall legitimacy post‐Transforming Rehabilitation (TR). This article is based on empirical research exploring the views of probation staff of the (then) impending changes introduced via TR and reflections on what has happened since.
The growth of precarious employment in Europe: Concepts, indicators and the effects of the global economic crisis
Authors: GUTIÉRREZ‐BARBARRUSA Tomás
Published: April 2017

Since the 1970s, the reorganization of production and neoliberal “flexibilization” have made employment increasingly precarious in the developed economies. Examining the concept of precarious employment, the author focuses on two of its dimensions – insecurity and poverty – which he uses to construct a “precariousness index”. Based on Eurostat data for 1995–2015, he then tracks the growth of precarious employment across the EU‐15 and assesses the impact of the 2008 global economic crisis in this respect. While precarious employment generally increased after the crisis, this trend was driven more by poverty in the most deregulated labour markets and more by insecurity in the southern European countries.
Epigallocatechin gallate reverses cTnI‐low expression‐induced age‐related heart diastolic dysfunction through histone acetylation modification
Authors: Pan Bo , Quan Junjun , Liu Lingjuan , Xu Zhongwei , Zhu Jing , Huang Xupei , Tian Jie
Published: April 2017

Cardiac diastolic dysfunction (CDD) is the most common form of cardiovascular disorders, especially in elderly people. Cardiac troponin I (cTnI) plays a critical role in the regulation of cardiac function, especially diastolic function. Our previous studies showed that cTnI‐low expression induced by histone acetylation modification might be one of the causes that result in diastolic dysfunction in ageing hearts. This study was designed to investigate whether epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) would modify histone acetylation events to regulate cTnI expression and then improve cardiac functions in ageing mice. Our study shows that EGCG improved cardiac diastolic function of aged mice after 8‐week treatment. Low expression of cTnI in the ageing hearts was reversed through EGCG treatment. EGCG inhibited the expression of histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) and HDAC3, and the binding levels of HDAC1 in the proximal promoter of cTnI. Acetylated lysine 9 on histone H3 (AcH3K9) levels of cTnI's promoter were increased through EGCG treatment. Additionally, EGCG resulted in an ascent of the binding levels of transcription factors GATA4 and Mef2c with cTnI's promoter. Together, our data indicate that EGCG may improve cardiac diastolic function of ageing mice through up‐regulating cTnI by histone acetylation modification. These findings provide new insights into histone acetylation mechanisms of EGCG treatment that may contribute to the prevention of CDD in ageing populations.
Exosomes derived from miR‐181‐5p‐modified adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells prevent liver fibrosis via autophagy activation
Authors: Qu Ying , Zhang Qidi , Cai Xiaobo , Li Fei , Ma Zhenzeng , Xu Mingyi , Lu Lungen
Published: April 2017

Proliferating hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) respond to liver damage by secreting collagens that form fibrous scar tissue, which can lead to cirrhosis if in appropriately regulated. Advancement of microRNA (miRNA) hepatic therapies has been hampered by difficulties in delivering miRNA to damaged tissue. However, exosomes secreted by adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) can be exploited to deliver miRNAs to HSCs. ADSCs were engineered to overexpress miRNA‐181‐5p (miR‐181‐5p‐ADSCs) to selectively home exosomes to mouse hepatic stellate (HST‐T6) cells or a CCl4‐induced liver fibrosis murine model and compared with non‐targeting control Caenorhabditis elegans miR‐67 (cel‐miR‐67)‐ADSCs. In vitro analysis confirmed that the transfer of miR‐181‐5p from miR‐181‐5p‐ADSCs occurred via secreted exosomal uptake. Exosomes were visualized in HST‐T6 cells using cyc3‐labelled pre‐miRNA‐transfected ADSCs with/without the exosomal inhibitor, GW4869. The effects of miRNA‐181‐5p overexpression on the fibrosis associated STAT3/Bcl‐2/Beclin 1 pathway and components of the extracellular matrix were assessed. Exosomes from miR181‐5p‐ADSCs down‐regulated Stat3 and Bcl‐2 and activated autophagy in the HST‐T6 cells. Furthermore, the up‐regulated expression of fibrotic genes in HST‐T6 cells induced by TGF‐β1 was repressed following the addition of isolated miR181‐5p‐ADSC exosomes compared with miR‐67‐ADSCexosomes. Exosome therapy attenuated liver injury and significantly down‐regulated collagen I, vimentin, α‐SMA and fibronectin in liver, compared with controls. Taken together, the effective anti‐fibrotic function of engineered ADSCs is able to selectively transfer miR‐181‐5p to damaged liver cells and will pave the way for the use of exosome‐ADSCs for therapeutic delivery of miRNA targeting liver disease.