bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Untouched canal areas and debris accumulation after root canal preparation with rotary and adaptive systems
Authors: Lopes Rosa Maria Vianna , Marins Fernanda Cunha , Belladonna Felipe Gonçalves , Souza Erick Miranda , De‐Deus Gustavo , Lopes Ricardo Tadeu , Silva Emmanuel João Nogueira Leal
Published: September 2017

This study assessed the percentage of untouched canal areas and the amount of debris accumulation after canal preparation with ProTaper Next (PTN) and Twisted File Adaptive (TFA) systems using micro‐computed tomographic (micro‐CT) imaging. Twenty isthmus‐containing mesial roots of mandibular molars were anatomically matched through micro‐CT evaluation and randomly assigned to one of the two experimental groups (n = 10), according to the system used for canal preparation: PTN (X1 and X2 files using rotary motion) and TFA (SM1 and SM2 files using adaptive motion). After canal preparation up to ISO size 25, the specimens were then scanned and the matched images of the mesial canals, before and after preparation, were examined from the furcation level to the apex to quantify the untouched surface canal areas and to evaluate the amount of accumulated debris. An independent samples t‐test and a Mann–Whitney test were used, respectively, to compare these variables between the groups with a significance level set at 5%. Root canals prepared with either PTN or TFA systems were found to present similar untouched canal surface areas (P = 0.52) and hard‐tissue debris accumulation (P = 0.39). Both systems produced a suboptimal and similar mechanical preparation of the mesial canals of mandibular molars and were not able to yield root canals completely free from packed hard‐tissue debris.
Surgical approach selection for total spondylectomy for the treatment of giant cell tumors in the lumbar spine: A retrospective analysis of 12 patients from a single center
Authors: Zhou Hua , Jiang Liang , Wei Feng , Yu Miao , Wu Feng‐liang , Liu Xiao‐guang , Liu Zhong‐jun
Published: September 2017

Aim

To describe the selection of the surgical approach used for total spondylectomy in the treatment of giant cell tumors of the lumbar spine.

Methods

This retrospective study included 12 patients with giant cell tumors of the lumbar spine who underwent total spondylectomy. The effect of the Weinstein‐Boriani‐Biagini surgical staging and tumor location on the approach selected was evaluated.

Results

Two tumors were treated using the posterior approach: one located in L1, extending into layers A∼D and involving sectors 2∼6, and the other located in L4, extending into layers B∼D and involving sectors 4∼11. Four tumors (one each located in L1, L2, L3, and L4) were treated by a combined posterior and anterolateral approach as the tumors involved sectors 5∼6 or 7∼8. Six tumors were treated using a combined posterior and anterior approach, two tumors located in L4, extending into layers A∼D and involving sectors 1∼12, and associated with a soft tissue mass extending into layer A and involving sectors 5∼8; and four tumors located in L5. Complications were observed in 9 of the 12 patients.

Conclusions

A posterior approach is the obvious strategy for tumors located in L1∼L4 and extending into layers B∼D or A and involving sectors 1∼3 or 10∼12. For tumors invading beyond layer A and involving sectors 1∼12, including those with a soft tissue mass extending from layer A, with involvement of sectors 4∼9, a posterior approach combined with an anterolateral or anterior approach is required. For L5 tumors, a combined posterior and anterior approach is needed.
Benchmarking against the National Emergency Laparotomy Audit recommendations
Authors: Ho Yiu Ming , Cappello Julie , Kousary Ramin , McGowan Brian , Wysocki Arkadiusz P.
Published: September 2017

Background

The Royal College of Anaesthetists published the National Emergency Laparotomy Audit (NELA) to describe and compare inpatient care and outcomes of major emergency abdominal surgery in England and Wales in 2015 and 2016. The purpose of this article is to compare emergency abdominal surgical care and mortality in a regional hospital (Logan Hospital, Queensland, Australia) with NELA results.

Methods

Data were extracted from two databases. All deaths from May 2010 to April 2015 were reviewed and patients who had an emergency abdominal operation within 30 days of death were identified. The health records of all patients who underwent abdominal surgery were extracted and those who had an emergency laparotomy were identified for analysis.

Results

Three hundred and fifty patients underwent emergency laparotomy and were included in the analysis. The total 30‐day mortality during this 5‐year period was 9.7%. Factors affecting mortality included age, Portsmouth‐Physiological and Operative Severity Score (P‐POSSUM) and admission source. Timing of antibiotic administration, use of perioperative medical service and frequency of intensive care admission were the same in patients who died and survived.

Conclusion

Mortality in patients following emergency laparotomy at Logan Hospital compares favourably with 11.1% reported by NELA. This may be partly attributable to case mix distribution as for each P‐POSSUM risk Logan Hospital mortality was at the upper end of that reported by NELA. Further Australia data are required. Improved compliance with NELA recommendations may improve outcomes.
Hypogammaglobulinemia in children: a warning sign to look deeply?
Authors: de Melo Karina Mescouto , de Moraes‐Pinto Maria Isabel , Andrade Luís E. C. , Salomão Reinaldo , Brunialti Milena K. C. , Ferreira Vanessa S. , Costa‐Carvalho Beatriz T.
Published: September 2017

This study investigated phenotypic and functional characteristics of lymphocytes in children with common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) and unclassified hypogammaglobulinemia (UH), as well as B‐cell subsets in non‐consanguineous parents. Blood samples of 30 children, CVID (n = 9), UH (n = 9), healthy donors HD (n = 12), and 19 adults (parents and controls) were labeled by a combination of surface markers to identify CD4, CD8 T‐cell and B‐cell subpopulations. T‐cell cytokine production in children was analyzed in vitro after stimulation with phytohemagglutinin (PHA) and tetanus toxoid. We observed low percentages of switched memory B cells in children with CVID, increase in total CD4+ T‐cell counts, and high percentages of transitional B cells only in UH group. Analysis of T‐cell immunity showed that CVID children had decreased percentages of CD8+ IFN‐γ‐producing cells after stimulation with PHA and tetanus toxoid. Parent of children with CVID had low percentages of naive B cell and increased percentages of memory B cells in comparison with controls. These results suggest that (i) early combined immune defect in children with CVID and (ii) a possible familial B‐cell disturbance in pediatric CVID.
Safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of radavirsen (AVI‐7100), an antisense oligonucleotide targeting influenza a M1/M2 translation
Authors: Beigel John H. , Voell Jocelyn , Muñoz Paula , Kumar Parag , Brooks Kristina M. , Zhang Jianbo , Iversen Patrick , Heald Alison , Wong Michael , Davey Richard T.
Published: September 2017

Aims

The aims of the present study were to assess the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of radavirsen following single ascending doses and multiple doses given as intravenous infusions in healthy adults.

Methods

A phase I safety and pharmacokinetic study of radavirsen was performed in healthy volunteers. The study was divided into two parts. The first was a single‐ascending‐dose study of five cohorts of eight subjects each, randomized 6:2 to receive single intravenous doses of radavirsen ranging from 0.5 mg kg–1 to 8 mg kg–1 or placebo. The second was a multiple‐dose study of 16 subjects randomized 12:4 to receive 8 mg kg–1 or placebo once daily for 5 days.

Results

A total of 66 subjects were screened, and 56 subjects were dosed between 2013 and 2015. At least one adverse event occurred in 31/42 (74%) who received radavirsen, and 13/14 (93%) receiving placebo. The most common adverse events were headache and proteinuria, and were similar in incidence and severity among those receiving radavirsen or placebo. Single‐dose pharmacokinetics demonstrated relatively linear and dose‐proportional increases in maximal concentration and in area under the concentration–time curve from zero to 24 h (AUC0–24). At 8 mg kg–1 in the multiple‐dose cohort, the day 4 geometric mean AUC0–24 was 57.9 μg*h ml–1.

Conclusion

Single infusions of radavirsen up to 8 mg kg–1, and multi‐dosing at 8 mg kg–1 once daily for 5 days, appear to be safe and well tolerated in healthy subjects. The multi‐dose day 4 AUC0–24 in the present study was comparable with that associated with protection from viral infection in a preclinical ferret influenza model. Further evaluation of radavirsen for the treatment of influenza infections is warranted.
Drugs for metabolic conditions and prostate cancer death in men on GnRH agonists
Authors: Bosco Cecilia , Wong Chloe , Garmo Hans , Crawley Danielle , Holmberg Lars , Hammar Niklas , Adolfsson Jan , Stattin Pär , Van Hemelrijck Mieke
Published: September 2017

Objective

To evaluate whether drugs for metabolic conditions influence prostate cancer‐specific mortality in men starting gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, as it is unclear whether metabolic syndrome and its related drugs is affecting treatment response in men with prostate cancer on GnRH agonists.

Patients and Methods

We selected all men receiving GnRH agonists as primary treatment in the Prostate Cancer data Base Sweden (PCBaSe) (n = 9267). Use of drugs for metabolic conditions (i.e. anti‐diabetes, anti‐dyslipidaemia, and antihypertension) in relation to all‐cause, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and prostate cancer‐specific death were studied using multivariate Cox proportional hazard and Fine and Gray competing regression models.

Results

In all, 6322 (68%) men used at least one drug for a metabolic condition at GnRH agonist initiation: 46% on antihypertensive drugs only, 32% on drugs for dyslipidaemia and hypertension, and ~10% on drugs for more than two metabolic conditions. Cox models indicated a weak increased risk of prostate cancer death in men who were on drugs for hypertension only (hazard ratio [HR] 1.12, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03–1.23) or drugs for hyperglycaemia (HR 1.19, 95% CI 1.06–1.35) at GnRH agonist initiation. However, upon taking into account competing risk from CVD death, none of the drugs for metabolic conditions were associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer death.

Conclusion

We did not find evidence for a better or worse response to GnRH agonists in men with prostate cancer who were also on drugs for hypertension, dyslipidaemia, or hyperglycaemia.
Peer Effects on Aggressive Behavior in Norwegian Child Care Centers
Authors: Ribeiro Luisa A. , Zachrisson Henrik D.
Published: September 2017

This study examined whether exposure to changes in peer aggression predicted changes in child physical aggression (PA) in preschool children attending Norwegian Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) centers. Data from the Behavior Outlook Norwegian Developmental Study were used, including 956 children. In fixed effects models, within‐child changes in exposure to peer aggression predicted changes in teacher‐rated child PA across ages 2, 3, and 4. Moreover, changes in exposure to a peer group with two or more externalizing children increased teacher‐rated child PA over time, but only for boys. No significant peer effects on parent‐rated child PA were found. Findings point to the importance of avoiding the congregation of several problematic children, particularly boys, in the same ECEC groups.
The risk of metabolic syndrome in polycystic ovary syndrome: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Behboudi‐Gandevani Samira , Amiri Mina , Bidhendi Yarandi Razieh , Noroozzadeh Mahsa , Farahmand Maryam , Rostami Dovom Marzieh , Ramezani Tehrani Fahimeh
Published: September 2017

Background and Objective

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common heterogeneous endocrine disorder associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS). The aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to provide the most reliable estimate risk of MetS in women with PCOS, compared to healthy controls.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was performed in PubMed [including Medline], Web of Science and Scopus databases for retrieving articles in English language on the prevalence/incidence and odds of MetS in women with PCOS compared to healthy controls. Mantel‐Haenszel methods of meta‐analysis were used to present results in terms of the pooled odds ratio (OR) (95% confidence interval [CI]) using fixed/random‐effects models with/without the publication bias correction, based on the various subgroups of age and study methods. Newcastle‐Ottawa Scaling and The Cochrane Collaboration's risk of bias assessment tool were used to evaluate the quality of studies included.

Results

The search strategy yielded 2759 potentially relevant articles of which 44 articles were included for meta‐analysis. Results of the meta‐analysis demonstrated that the patients with PCOS regardless of age, BMI and recruitment sources of samples had higher odds of MetS compared to healthy controls (OR 2.5, 95% CI 2.0‐3.2). However, adolescents with PCOS had an increased odds of MetS compared to healthy adolescent controls in population‐ and nonpopulation‐based studies (OR 4.7, 95% CI 1.8‐11.9; OR 6.1, 95% CI 6.0‐ 6.1, respectively). However, the odds of MetS had no differences between adults with PCOS compared to healthy controls in population‐based studies. These results were confirmed by the subgroup meta‐analysis of some studies using age and BMI adjustment/matching. In addition, subgroup analysis based on diagnostic criteria of PCOS showed that the OR of MetS in PCOS using NIH criteria was higher than AES and Rotterdam criteria (Pooled Overall OR based on NIH criteria = 6.05, 95% CIL: 6.0‐6.04).

Conclusion

These findings provide some information on the real features and a broader view of this syndrome that also helps clarify conflicting results documented in the literature. Accordingly, in prevention strategies, routine screening for metabolic syndrome is suggested for adolescents with PCOS.
THE TIMING OF EXEMPTIONS FROM WELFARE WORK REQUIREMENTS AND ITS EFFECTS ON MOTHERS' WORK AND WELFARE RECEIPT AROUND CHILDBIRTH
Authors: Kim Jiyoon
Published: September 2017

I quantify the effects of welfare work exemptions on women's labor force participation and welfare receipt. This study, which also examines the age of youngest child (AYC) exemption, is the first to investigate the pregnancy exemption. Between‐state and within‐state variations in exemption length allow me to estimate the heterogeneous effects of each exemption by its timing and strictness. I find that the effects on labor force participation are driven by employment for the pregnancy exemption, inducing relatively stable welfare receipts. In contrast, the effects are driven by unemployment for the AYC exemption, which triggers more reliance on welfare after birth. (JEL I38)
Post‐secondary scholarships for students from developing countries: Establishing a global baseline
Authors: Bhandari Rajika
Published: September 2017

With the goal of informing progress towards Sustainable Development Goal target 4.b which focuses on the provision of global scholarships for students from the developing world, this article analyses the current state of global data on scholarships available at the tertiary level for individuals from developing countries. In addition to assessing the status of and gaps in the data, the analysis explores the feasibility of creating a baseline against which future progress towards target 4.b can be monitored at the global level. It reviews a broad range of scholarship programmes that are sponsored by government institutions, non‐profit organisations, and corporations in order to inform the analysis, identify challenges, and propose solutions. Data gaps are especially apparent with regard to the national origins and socio‐demographic characteristics of scholarship recipients. Despite the severe limitation of the data, a tentative baseline against which the progress of target 4.b can be measured is proposed. This baseline estimates that currently there are approximately 22,487 tertiary students from the developing world who are receiving scholarships from developed and developing countries. This figure accounts for just under 1% of the 2.5 million students from the developing world who are globally mobile. In addition to providing a framework for organising and monitoring global scholarship programmes, the article provides recommendations for the steps that can be put in place in order to ensure better data collection on the provision of scholarships for students from the developing world.
Skill achievement and returns in developing countries: Evidence from adult skills surveys
Authors: Chua Kenn
Published: September 2017

Using novel adult skills surveys, this article analyses cross‐country patterns in skill achievement and labour market returns, comparing the outcomes for a subset of developing countries with the results previously found for high‐income economies. Apart from displaying lower average cognitive skills, developing countries also exhibit wider disparities in levels of skills by subgroups of educational attainment, gender, and parental education. Meanwhile, baseline estimates of returns to skills reveal that a one‐standard deviation increase in literacy skills is associated with an earnings increase of 14.6% in developing countries, which is statistically indistinguishable from the average returns of 17.7 estimated for developed countries. Nonetheless, there is considerable heterogeneity in the returns across developing countries, with the lowest estimates found in Armenia and Ukraine at 2% (not statistically significant) and 6%, respectively, and the highest reported in Kenya at above 30%. Differences in the type of employment opportunities and the degree of employment selection in these labour markets are important determinants of the observed gap in returns. International comparisons of returns should take this into consideration.
L‐DOPA‐induced dyskinesias, motor fluctuations and health‐related quality of life: the COPARK survey
Authors: Perez‐Lloret S. , Negre‐Pages L. , Damier P. , Delval A. , Derkinderen P. , Destée A. , Meissner W. G. , Tison F. , Rascol O. ,   of the COPARK Study Group
Published: September 2017

Background and purpose

Studies assessing the correlations between L‐DOPA‐induced dyskinesias (LIDs) and motor fluctuations with health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in Parkinson's disease (PD) have yielded conflicting results. This study aimed to assess the relationship between LIDs and motor fluctuations with HRQoL in patients with PD, and to assess the relative contribution of their severity and duration in a large sample of patients with PD.

Methods

A total of 683 patients with PD from the COPARK survey were evaluated. HRQoL was assessed using the 39‐Item Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire (PDQ‐39) (primary outcome) and 36‐Item Short Form Survey (SF‐36). The daily duration and severity of LIDs were obtained from Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) IV items 32 and 33, respectively. The daily duration of motor fluctuations was obtained from UPDRS IV item 36 and severity was estimated as the difference between the UPDRS 2 (Activities of Daily Living) score in ‘OFF’ versus ‘ON’ condition.

Results

A total of 235 patients with PD (35%) experienced motor fluctuations and 182 (27%) experienced LIDs. The PDQ‐39 total and SF‐36 physical scores were significantly worse in patients with LIDs, after adjusting for the presence of motor fluctuations. The PDQ‐39 total score and SF‐36 physical and mental score were significantly worse in patients with motor fluctuations, after adjusting for the presence of LIDs. The severity of LIDs and the duration of motor fluctuations significantly and independently affected PDQ‐39 scores. The SF‐36 physical score was affected only by the severity of motor fluctuations, whereas the mental score was not affected by any of the aforementioned variables.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that LIDs (mainly their severity) and motor fluctuations (mainly their duration) correlate independently with HRQoL in patients with PD.
Hypermetabolism appears to be an adverse prognostic biomarker in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a potential for therapeutic intervention?
Authors: Vucic S.
Published: September 2017

Click here to view the accompanying paper in this volume.
Environmental modeling of occurrence of dolphinfish (Coryphaena spp.) in the Pacific Ocean off Mexico reveals seasonality in abundance, hot spots and migration patterns
Authors: Marín‐Enríquez Emigdio , Seoane Javier , Muhlia‐Melo Arturo
Published: September 2017

Dolphinfish are little known migratory fish targeted by sport, artisanal and commercial fleets. In this study, we analyzed a 10 year database of incidental catches of the tuna purse seine fleet in the Pacific Ocean off Mexico with the aim to understand the environmental determinants of the spatial distribution and seasonal migration patterns of dolphinfish. We modeled the probability of occurrence of dolphinfish as a function of spatial (geographical coordinates), temporal (month/year) and environmental variables (sea surface temperature [SST], chlorophyll [CHL] and sea surface height [SSH], inferred from satellites) using logistic Generalized Additive Models. Dolphinfish preferred waters with SST values from 23 to 28°C, low (<0.2 mg/m3) CHL values, and primarily positive SSH values. Two dolphinfish hot spots were found in the study area: one in an oceanic zone (10°–15°N, 120°–125°W), which was more defined during spring, and one on the Pacific side of the Baja California Peninsula, which became important during summer. Models suggested that dolphinfish migrated through the study area following a “corridor” that ran from the Gulf of Tehuantepec along the Equatorial Upwelling zone to the oceanic hot spot zone, which in turn connected with the hot spot off the BCP. This “migratory corridor” went around the Eastern Pacific Warm Pool, which suggested that dolphinfish avoided this high temperature‐low production zone. Dolphinfish occupied zones close to certain oceanic features, such as eddies and thermal fronts. Results suggested that the primary cause of the biological hot spots was wind‐driven upwelling, because the hot spots became more important 3–4 months after the peak in upwelling activity.
Servitude in the 18th‐century British Atlantic World: Old Paradigms and New Directions
Authors: Madar Allison
Published: September 2017

Recognizing that the increasing reliance on racial slavery in the 18th century led to a reduction of temporary servitude, historians have understandably emphasized the declining significance of servants in colonial societies. Yet temporary servitude persisted throughout the British Atlantic World into the late 18th century, shaping the lives of tens of thousands of individuals and affecting a large number of colonial households. “Unfreedom” came in many forms. Servants – including indentured servants, convict servants, and redemptioners – have garnered scholarly attention at various points during the 20th century, and even earlier, often in isolation from one another. This essay presents existing scholarship and suggests new avenues of research in the study of servitude in 18th‐century British America. It urges scholars to move beyond demographic and economic questions to explore the social, legal, and personal histories of 18th‐century servants in slave societies, using the scholarship on the 17th century and on non‐plantation societies as models.
The influence of immune status, age, and sex on Majocchi granuloma: a review of 52 cases from a tertiary level hospital and published Korean cases in literature
Authors: Ohn Jungyoon , Jo Gwanghyun , Mun Je‐Ho
Published: September 2017

Background

Majocchi granuloma (MG) is a rare dermal and subcutaneous granulomatous inflammation caused by dermatophytes. The detailed characteristics of MG are not fully elucidated. This study investigated the influence of systemic immune status, age, and sex on the clinical, demographic, mycological, and therapeutic characteristics of MG in Korea.

Methods

We analyzed cases of histopathologically diagnosed MG at our tertiary referral center from January 2001 to December 2016. We also analyzed all Korean MG cases published in Korean and English literature to date. The different features based on immune status, age, and sex were compared. P < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results

We enrolled 52 patients, 33 (63.5%) were male and 19 (36.5%) were female. The mean age was 45.4 ± 23.1 years. Immunosuppression was reported in 13 cases (26.5%). Statistical analysis showed that the immune status affects the anatomical location and clinical manifestation. Age has an influence on involved sites and identified fungal species. The frequent fungal pathogens were different based on sex.

Conclusion

The results of our study revealed that distinctive features of MG exist based on immune status, age, and sex.
cAMP levels in lymphocytes and CD4+ regulatory T‐cell functions are affected by dopamine receptor gene polymorphisms
Authors: Cosentino Marco , Kustrimovic Natasa , Ferrari Marco , Rasini Emanuela , Marino Franca
Published: September 2017

The neurotransmitter dopamine (DA) has prominent effects in the immune system and between the immune cells, CD4+ regulatory T (Treg) lymphocytes, a specialized T‐cell subset crucial for the control of immune homeostasis, are especially sensitive to DA. Dopaminergic receptors (DR) are grouped into two families according to their pharmacological profile and main second messenger coupling: the D1‐like (D1 and D5), which activate adenylate cyclase, and the D2‐like (D2, D3 and D4), which inhibit adenylate cyclase and exist in several variants that have been associated to clinical conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, substance abuse and addiction. We aimed to examine, in venous blood samples from healthy volunteers, the relationship between the arbitrary DR score and DR functional responses in human lymphocytes. All the samples were genotyped for selected DR gene variants (DRD1: rs4532 and rs686; DRD2: rs1800497 and rs6277; DRD3: rs6280; DRD4: rs747302 and seven 48‐base pair variable number tandem repeat (VNTR)) and a DR score was attributed to each participant. We have also tested whether DR gene polymorphisms might affect Treg cell ability to suppress effector T‐cell function. To our knowledge, this is the first study showing a correlation between DR gene variants and human T lymphocyte function. The main results are that both D1‐like and D2‐like DR are functionally active in human lymphocytes, although the D1‐like DR stimulation results in stronger effects in comparison to the D2‐like DR stimulation. In addition, it seems that the DR genetic profile may affect the ability of lymphocytes to respond to dopaminergic agents. More investigations are needed about the possible clinical relevance of such findings.
Effect of glass composition on the hardness of surface layers on aluminosilicate glasses formed through reaction with strong acid
Authors: Amma Shin‐ichi , Luo Jiawei , Kim Seong H. , Pantano Carlo G.
Published: September 2017

The effect of glass composition on physico‐chemical properties of surface layers formed through reaction between strong acid and several silicate and aluminosilicate glasses was studied through transmission‐IR, ATR‐IR, XPS, SIMS, and nano‐indentation analyses. It was shown that aluminum is depleted from the surface while molecular water is diffused into the surface layer of glasses with high levels of aluminum. Nano‐indentation experiments indicated that the hardness of the surface layers were decreased compared to that of the bulk region and the degree of the softening was more significant in the high aluminum glass.
Developing a biocontrol strategy to protect stored potato tubers from infestation with potato tuber moth species in the Andean region
Authors: Schaub B. , Kroschel J.
Published: September 2017

Heavy infestations of stored potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) tubers by the two potato tuber moth species Symmetrischema tangolias (Gyen) and Tecia solanivora (Povolny) frequently occur in Andean potato‐growing regions of Ecuador. The aim of the study was to develop a biological control strategy for both species using powder formulations made of inert substances, Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller) granulovirus (PhopGV) and Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner subsp. kurstaki (Btk). The LC50 of PhopGV on T. solanivora was 0.33 LE/L, and Btk caused 82.7% mortality at a concentration of 100 g/L in bioassays. The efficacy of talcum, kaolin, calcium carbonate and sand ranged between 76.2% and 98.7%. Calcium carbonate was highly effective to control both species; however, its efficacy was affected by the relative humidity and dropped to 55.4% at relative humidity of 100%. PhopGV at concentrations of five larvae equivalents (LE) per kg kaolin and Btk at a concentration of 60 g Btk/kg talcum caused 95.7% and 88.1% mortality of T. solanivora, respectively. In storage experiments, the efficacy of calcium carbonate alone and in combination with PhopGV (20 LE/kg) and Btk (15 g/kg) caused 95.0–99.8% mortality of T. solanivora in all treatments and reduced infestation on potato tubers by 83.6%–91.0%. In the case of S. tangolias, Btk significantly increased mortality to 96.5% compared with calcium carbonate alone and reduced tuber infestation by 83.4%. Storage of potato tubers in thin layers enhanced the efficacy of the calcium carbonate treatment compared with storage in bags. It was concluded that calcium carbonate alone seems to be appropriate for the control of T. solanivora, and an addition of 15 g Btk/kg would improve the control of S. tangolias. It is suggested to test these new formulations under on‐farm storage conditions.
Systemic amyloidosis with gastrointestinal involvement: Diagnosis from endoscopic and histological views
Authors: Iida Tomoya , Yamano Hiroo , Nakase Hiroshi
Published: September 2017

Amyloid tends to deposit in the gastrointestinal tract, which, being easily accessible, is often the target organ for a pathological diagnostic examination. Although a mucosal biopsy is necessary for a definitive diagnosis and several studies have reported positive results for each possible biopsy site, there remain many unclear features in various aspects. This review focuses on the current literature to determine a better understanding of the diagnosis from endoscopic and histological views in patients with systemic amyloidosis with gastrointestinal involvement. A literature search was performed using PubMed to identify relevant studies; linked references were also reviewed. Endoscopic findings vary based on the organ and the depositing amyloids. A fine granular appearance or polypoid protrusions are likely to occur in the duodenum. AL, Aβ2M, and ATTR amyloids are likely to deposit submucosally, while AA amyloid is easily deposited in the superficial layer of the mucous membrane. Furthermore, it is necessary to consider the collection of biopsy specimens from the duodenum, which has high positive biopsy rates. However, the difference in the positive biopsy rates depends on whether endoscopic findings are available or whether the appropriate number has not been fully elucidated. A duodenal biopsy is strongly recommended to confirm the deposition of amyloid in patients with systemic amyloidosis having gastrointestinal involvement. Because amyloidosis is a disease with a poor prognosis, early diagnosis and treatment are required; gastroenterologists and endoscopists play important roles.
Smoking, plasma cotinine and risk of atrial fibrillation: the Hordaland Health Study
Authors: Zuo H. , Nygård O. , Vollset S. E. , Ueland P. M. , Ulvik A. , Midttun Ø. , Meyer K. , Igland J. , Sulo G. , Tell G. S.
Published: September 2017

Background

Cigarette smoking has been identified as a major modifiable risk factor for coronary heart disease and mortality. However, findings on the relationship between smoking and atrial fibrillation (AF) have been inconsistent. Furthermore, findings from previous studies were based on self‐reported smoking.

Objective

To examine the associations of smoking status and plasma cotinine levels, a marker of nicotine exposure, with risk of incident AF in the Hordaland Health Study.

Methods

We conducted a prospective analysis of 6682 adults aged 46‐74 years without known AF at baseline. Participants were followed via linkage to the Cardiovascular Disease in Norway (CVDNOR) project and the Cause of Death Registry. Smoking status was assessed by both questionnaire and plasma cotinine levels.

Results

A total of 538 participants developed AF over a median follow‐up period of 11 years. Using questionnaire data, current smoking (HR: 1.41, 95% CI: 1.09–1.83), but not former smoking (HR: 1.03, 95% CI: 0.83–1.28), was associated with an increased risk of AF after adjustment for gender, age, body mass index, hypertension, physical activity and education. Using plasma cotinine only, the adjusted HR (95% CI) was 1.40 (1.12–1.75) for participants with cotinine ≥85 nmol L−1 compared to those with cotinine <85 nmol L−1. However, the risk increased with elevated plasma cotinine levels until 1199 nmol L−1 (HR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.16–2.05 at the third group vs. the reference group) and plateaued at higher levels.

Conclusions

Current, but not former smokers, had a higher risk of developing AF. Use of plasma cotinine measurement corroborated this finding.
Maternal glucocorticoid levels affect sex allocation in black howler monkeys
Authors: Rangel‐Negrín A. , Coyohua‐Fuentes A. , Canales‐Espinosa D. , Chavira‐Ramírez D. R. , Dias P. A. D.
Published: September 2017

When sons and daughters impart different fitness benefits, mothers should bias investment according to offspring sex, in some cases modifying offspring sex ratios. Sex allocation in monotocous organisms is expected to be costlier than for polytocous species, as it imposes a greater loss of reproductive effort in terms of mating and fertilization. Here, we show that variation in glucocorticoid concentrations around the time of conception predicts infant sex in a monotocous anthropoid, the black howler monkey (Alouatta pigra), suggesting that sex allocation is linked to a hormonal mechanism that affects early embryonic development. Glucocorticoids signal environmental conditions, and in our study, their variation was positively related to factors affecting infant survival. These results offer insight into sex allocation strategies in monotocous organisms.
The Meteoritical Bulletin, No. 105
Authors: Bouvier Audrey , Gattacceca Jérôme , Grossman Jeffrey , Metzler Knut
Published: September 2017

Meteoritical Bulletin 105 contains 2666 meteorites including 12 falls (Aouinet Legraa, Banma, Buritizal, Ejby, Kamargaon, Moshampa, Mount Blanco, Murrili, Osceola, Sariçiçek, Sidi Ali Ou Azza, Stubenberg), with 2244 ordinary chondrites, 142 HED achondrites, 116 carbonaceous chondrites, 37 Lunar meteorites, 20 enstatite chondrites, 20 iron meteorites, 20 ureilites, 19 Martian meteorites, 12 Rumuruti chondrites, 10 primitive achondrites, 9 mesosiderites, 5 angrites, 4 pallasites, 4 ungrouped achondrites, 2 ungrouped chondrites, 1 enstatite achondrite, and 1 relict meteorite, and with 1545 from Antarctica, 686 from Africa, 245 from Asia, 147 from South America, 22 from North America, 14 from Europe, 5 from Oceania, 1 from unknown origin. Note: 5 meteorites from Russia were counted as European. It also includes a list of approved new Dense Collection Areas and a nomenclature of the Aletai (IIIE‐an) iron meteorites from Xinjiang, China.
Molecular cytogenetic characterization and phenotypic evaluation of new wheat–rye lines derived from hexaploid triticale ‘Certa’ × common wheat hybrids
Authors: Liu Caiyun , Song Quanhao , Zhang Hongjun , Yang Zujun , Hu Yin‐Gang
Published: September 2017

Hexaploid triticale contains valuable genes from both tetraploid wheat and rye and plays an important role in wheat breeding programmes. In order to explore the potential of hexaploid triticale ‘Certa’ in wheat improvement, two crosses were made using ‘Certa’ as female parent, and common wheat cultivars ‘Jinmai47’ (JM47) and ‘Xinong389’ (XN389) as male parents. The karyotyping of BCF4:5 lines from Certa/JM47//JM47 and F5:6 lines from Certa/XN389 was investigated using sequential fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). One 1B(1R) substitution line and five 1BL.1RS whole‐arm translocation lines were identified, one of which was found lacking ω‐secalin locus. Many structural alterations on wheat chromosomes were detected in the progeny. Great morphologic differences resulting from genetic variations were observed, among which the photosynthetic capability was increased while grain quality was slightly improved. Compared with both parents, the stripe rust resistance at adult stage was increased in lines derived from Certa/JM47//JM47, while it was decreased in lines derived from Certa/XN389. These newly developed lines might have the potential to be utilized in wheat improvement programmes.
Occipital alpha power reveals fast attentional inhibition of incongruent distractors
Authors: Janssens Clio , De Loof Esther , Boehler C. Nico , Pourtois Gilles , Verguts Tom
Published: September 2017

Recent associative models of cognitive control hypothesize that cognitive control can be learned (optimized) for task‐specific settings via associations between perceptual, motor, and control representations, and, once learned, control can be implemented rapidly. Midfrontal brain areas signal the need for control, and control is subsequently implemented by biasing sensory representations, boosting or suppressing activity in brain areas processing task‐relevant or task‐irrelevant information. To assess the timescale of this process, we employed EEG. In order to pinpoint control implementation in specific sensory areas, we used a flanker task with incongruent flankers shown in only one hemifield (congruent flankers in the other hemifield) isolating their processing in the contralateral hemisphere. ERPs revealed fast modulations specifically in visual processing areas contralateral to the incongruent flankers. To test whether these modulations reflect increased or decreased processing of incongruent flankers, we investigated alpha power, a marker for attentional inhibition. Importantly, we show increased alpha power over visual areas processing incongruent flankers from 300 to 500 ms poststimulus onset. This suggests fast cognitive control by attentional inhibition for information disrupting goal‐oriented actions. Additionally, we show that midfrontal theta earlier in the trial is also modulated by incongruency, and that theta power predicts subsequent alpha power modulations. This supports the hypothesis that midfrontal incongruency detection leads to control implementation, and reveals that these mechanisms take place on a fast, within‐trial timescale.
Elinor Ostrom: The Power and Peril of Multidisciplinary Research
Authors: Schachter Hindy Lauer
Published: September 2017

Related Content: Balfour (PAR November/December 2017)

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Related Content: Holzer (PAR November/December 2017)
N1366S mutation of human skeletal muscle sodium channel causes paramyotonia congenita
Authors: Ke Qing , Ye Jia , Tang Siyang , Wang Jin , Luo Benyan , Ji Fang , Zhang Xu , Yu Ye , Cheng Xiaoyang , Li Yuezhou
Published: September 2017

Key points

Paramyotonia congenita is a hereditary channelopathy caused by missense mutations in the SCN4A gene, which encodes the α subunit of the human skeletal muscle voltage‐gated sodium channel NaV1.4.

Affected individuals suffered from myotonia and paralysis of muscles, which were aggravated by exposure to cold.

We report a three‐generation Chinese family with patients presenting paramyotonia congenita and identify a novel N1366S mutation of NaV1.4.

Whole‐cell electrophysiological recordings of the N1366S channel reveal a gain‐of‐function change of gating in response to cold. Modelling and molecular dynamic simulation data suggest that an arginine‐to‐serine substitution at position 1366 increases the distance from N1366 to R1454 and disrupts the hydrogen bond formed between them at low temperature.

We demonstrate that N1366S is a disease‐causing mutation and that the temperature‐sensitive alteration of N1366S channel activity may be responsible for the pronounced paramyotonia congenita symptoms of these patients.

Paramyotonia congenita is an autosomal dominant skeletal muscle channelopathy caused by missense mutations in SCN4A, the gene encoding the α subunit of the human skeletal muscle voltage‐gated sodium channel NaV1.4. We report a three‐generation family in which six members present clinical symptoms of paramyotonia congenita characterized by a marked worsening of myotonia by cold and by the presence of clear episodes of paralysis. We identified a novel mutation in SCN4A (Asn1366Ser, N1366S) in all patients in the family but not in healthy relatives or in 500 normal control subjects. Functional analysis of the channel protein expressed in HEK293 cells by whole‐cell patch clamp recording revealed that the N1366S mutation led to significant alterations in the gating process of the NaV1.4 channel. The N1366S mutant displayed a cold‐induced hyperpolarizing shift in the voltage dependence of activation and a depolarizing shift in fast inactivation, as well as a reduced rate of fast inactivation and accelerated recovery from fast inactivation. In addition, homology modelling and molecular dynamic simulation of N1366S and wild‐type NaV1.4 channels indicated that the arginine‐to‐serine substitution disrupted the hydrogen bond formed between N1366 and R1454. Together, our results suggest that N1366S is a gain‐of‐function mutation of NaV1.4 at low temperature and the mutation may be responsible for the clinical symptoms of paramyotonia congenita in the affected family and constitute a basis for studies into its pathogenesis.
Morphological studies on the water mite Hydryphantes ramosus Daday, 1905 (Acariformes: Hydrachnidiae: Hydryphantidae) from Brazil, with a description of the larva
Authors: Castro Luiz Alexandre Simões de , Rocha Carlos E. F. Da , Proctor Heather C.
Published: September 2017

The first description of the larva of Hydryphantes ramosus Daday, 1905 is given. Morphological studies of both larva and female are presented, based on slide-mounted specimens and SEM.
Neutrophil transfer of
miR-223
to lung epithelial cells dampens acute lung injury in mice
Authors: Neudecker Viola , Brodsky Kelley S. , Clambey Eric T. , Schmidt Eric P. , Packard Thomas A. , Davenport Bennett , Standiford Theodore J. , Weng Tingting , Fletcher Ashley A. , Barthel Lea , Masterson Joanne C. , Furuta Glenn T. , Cai Chunyan , Blackburn Michael R. , Ginde Adit A. , Graner Michael W. , Janssen William J. , Zemans Rachel L. , Evans Christopher M. , Burnham Ellen L. , Homann Dirk , Moss Marc , Kreth Simone , Zacharowski Kai , Henson Peter M. , Eltzschig Holger K.
Published: September 2017

Intercellular transfer of
miR-223
from neutrophils to alveolar epithelial cells reduces lung inflammation in a mouse model of ventilator-induced lung injury or pulmonary bacterial infection.
Combined OX40L and mTOR blockade controls effector T cell activation while preserving T
reg
reconstitution after transplant
Authors: Tkachev Victor , Furlan Scott N. , Watkins Benjamin , Hunt Daniel J. , Zheng Hengqi Betty , Panoskaltsis-Mortari Angela , Betz Kayla , Brown Melanie , Schell John B. , Zeleski Katie , Yu Alison , Kirby Ian , Cooley Sarah , Miller Jeffrey S. , Blazar Bruce R. , Casson Duncan , Bland-Ward Phil , Kean Leslie S.
Published: September 2017

OX40L blockade synergizes with sirolimus to prevent GVHD by controlling effector T cell activation while supporting T
reg
reconstitution.
Microbial Metabolic Networks at the Mucus Layer Lead to Diet-Independent Butyrate and Vitamin B12Production by Intestinal Symbionts
Authors: Belzer Clara , Chia Loo Wee , Aalvink Steven , Chamlagain Bhawani , Piironen Vieno , Knol Jan , de Vos Willem M.
Published: September 2017

Akkermansia muciniphilahas evolved to specialize in the degradation and utilization of host mucus, which it may use as the sole source of carbon and nitrogen. Mucus degradation and fermentation byA. muciniphilaare known to result in the liberation of oligosaccharides and subsequent production of acetate, which becomes directly available to microorganisms in the vicinity of the intestinal mucosa. Coculturing experiments ofA.muciniphilawith non-mucus-degrading butyrate-producing bacteriaAnaerostipes caccae,Eubacterium hallii, andFaecalibacterium prausnitziiresulted in syntrophic growth and production of butyrate. In addition, we demonstrate that the production of pseudovitamin B12byE. halliiresults in production of propionate byA. muciniphila, which suggests that this syntrophy is indeed bidirectional. These data are proof of concept for syntrophic and other symbiotic microbe-microbe interactions at the intestinal mucosal interface. The observed metabolic interactions betweenA.muciniphilaand butyrogenic bacterial taxa support the existence of colonic vitamin and butyrate production pathways that are dependent on host glycan production and independent of dietary carbohydrates. We infer that the intestinal symbiontA. muciniphilacan indirectly stimulate intestinal butyrate levels in the vicinity of the intestinal epithelial cells with potential health benefits to the host.

IMPORTANCEThe intestinal microbiota is said to be a stable ecosystem where many networks between microorganisms are formed. Here we present a proof of principle study of microbial interaction at the intestinal mucus layer. We show that indigestible oligosaccharide chains within mucus become available for a broad range of intestinal microbes after degradation and liberation of sugars by the speciesAkkermansia muciniphila. This leads to the microbial synthesis of vitamin B12, 1,2-propanediol, propionate, and butyrate, which are beneficial to the microbial ecosystem and host epithelial cells.
FISHing Out the Hidden Enemy: Advances in Detecting and Measuring Latent HIV-Infected Cells
Authors: Prasad Vinayaka R. , Kalpana Ganjam V.
Published: September 2017

The indomitable aspect of HIV-1 infection is not that HIV-1 proviral DNA is integrated into host DNA but that it can also turn itself off, remaining invisible to drug or immune surveillance. Thus, the goals of eradication include ways to precisely excise HIV-1 DNA or wake up the silent HIV-1 provirus and eliminate the infected cells thus identified. Methods to identify and fish out the latently infected cells or to delineate their characteristics are being rapidly developed. In 2016, Baxter et al. (A. E. Baxter, J. Niessl, R. Fromentin, J. Richard, F. Porichis, R. Charlebois, M. Massanella, N. Brassard, N. Alsahafi, G. G. Delgado, J. P. Routy, B. D. Walker, A. Finzi, N. Chomont, and D. E. Kaufmann, Cell Host Microbe 20:368–380, 2016,
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chom.2016.07.015
) and Martrus et al. (G. Martrus, A. Niehrs, R. Cornelis, A. Rechtien, W. García-Beltran, M. Lütgehetmann, C. Hoffmann, and M. Altfeld, J Virol 90:9018–9028, 2016,
https://doi.org/10.1128/JVI.01448-16
) reported using the fluorescence
in situ
hybridization-flow cytometry technique to identify and quantify cells expressing HIV-1 RNA and Gag protein, as well as bearing unique cell surface markers. In a recent article in
mBio
, Grau-Expósito et al. (J. Grau-Expósito, C. Serra-Peinado, L. Miguel, J. Navarro, A. Curran, J. Burgos, I. Ocaña, E. Ribera, A. Torrella, B. Planas, R. Badía, J. Castellví, V. Falcó, M. Crespo, and M. J. Buzon, mBio 8:e00876-17, 2017,
https://doi.org/10.1128/mBio.00876-17
) reported a similar method that they claim to be more sensitive. With these methods, researchers are one step closer to measuring latent reservoirs and eliminating critical barriers to HIV eradication.