bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dickkopf 3 attenuates xanthine dehydrogenase expression to prevent oxidative stress‐induced apoptosis
Authors: Qui Shuang , Kano Junko , Noguchi Masayuki
Published: March 2017

Dickkopf (DKK) 3 is a DKK glycoprotein family member that controls cell fate during embryogenesis and exerts opposing effects on survival in a cell type‐dependent manner; however, the mechanisms governing its pro‐apoptosis versus pro‐survival functions remain unclear. Here, we investigated DKK3 function in Li21 hepatoma cells and tPH5CH immortalized hepatocytes. DKK3 knockdown by siRNA resulted in reactive oxygen species accumulation and subsequent apoptosis, which were abrogated by administration of the antioxidant N‐acetyl‐cysteine. Moreover, forced DKK3 over‐expression induced resistance to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)‐induced apoptosis. Expression analysis by cDNA microarray showed that xanthine dehydrogenase (XDH) expression was significantly lower in Li21 and tPH5CHDKK3‐over‐expressing cells in response to H2O2 treatment when compared to that in their respective mock‐transfected controls, whereas a marked increase was observed in H2O2‐treated DKK3 knockdown cells. Thus, these data suggest that DKK3 promotes cell survival during oxidative stress by suppressing the expression of the superoxide‐producing enzyme XDH.
Childcare before age 6 and body mass index at age 7 years in a cohort of Danish children
Authors: Benjamin Neelon S. E. , Schmidt Morgen C. , Kamper‐Jørgensen M. , Oken E. , Gillman M. W. , Gallis J. A. , Sørensen T. I. A.
Published: March 2017

Background

Previous studies show inconsistent associations between childcare and obesity.

Aims

Our prior work demonstrated that childcare in infancy was associated with higher weight in a cohort of Danish children. Here, we extend this work and examine childcare through 6 years and body mass index (BMI) at age 7 years.

Materials and Methods

We examined 24 714 children in the Danish National Birth Cohort who were also in the Childcare Database. We conducted multivariable linear regressions examining children prior to age 6, overall and by type (daycare, crèche, age‐integrated and kindergarten), and BMI z‐score at 7 years, stratifying on maternal socio‐occupational status.

Results

A total of 19 760 (80.0%) children attended childcare before age 6. Childcare prior to age 6 was associated with BMI z‐score at 7 years (0.004 units per each additional 6 months of care; 95% CI: 0.001, 0.008; p = 0.01). Childcare in a kindergarten was the only type of care associated with BMI (0.009 units; 95% CI: 0.003, 0.02; p = 0.01). For children of higher socio‐occupational status mothers, childcare was associated with a 0.008 unit increase in BMI (95% CI: 0.004, 0.01; p > 0.001).

Conclusions

Childcare was weakly associated with later BMI. This relationship was more pronounced in children from higher socio‐occupational status mothers and children in kindergarten care.
Indirect effects of immunological tolerance to a regular dietary protein reduce cutaneous scar formation
Authors: Cantaruti Thiago Anselmo , Costa Raquel Alves , de Souza Kênia Soares , Vaz Nelson Monteiro , Carvalho Cláudia Rocha
Published: March 2017

Oral tolerance refers to the specific inhibition of immune responsiveness to T‐cell‐dependent antigens contacted through the oral route before parenteral immunization. Oral tolerance to one protein does not inhibit immune responses to other unrelated proteins, but parenteral injection of tolerated antigens plus adjuvant into tolerant, but not normal, mice inhibits immune responses to antigens injected concomitantly or soon thereafter. The inhibitory effect triggered by parenteral injection of tolerated proteins is known as bystander suppression or indirect effects of oral tolerance. Intraperitoneal injection of ovalbumin (OVA) plus alum adjuvant in OVA‐tolerant mice soon before skin injury inhibits inflammation and improves cutaneous wound healing. However, as OVA is not a regular component of mouse chow, we tested whether indirect effects could be triggered by zein, the main protein of corn that is regularly present in mouse chow. We show that intraperitoneal injection of a single dose (10 μg) of zein plus alum adjuvant soon before skin injury in mice reduces leucocyte infiltration but increase the number of T cells and the expression of resistin‐like molecule‐α (a marker of alternatively activated macrophages) in the wound bed, increases the expression of transforming growth factor‐β3 in the newly formed epidermis and reduces cutaneous scar formation. These results suggest that indirect effects of oral tolerance triggered by parenteral injection of regular dietary components may be further explored as one alternative way to promote scarless wound healing.
Suppression of murine tumour growth through CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes via activated DEC‐205+ dendritic cells by sequential administration of α‐galactosylceramide in vivo
Authors: Kogo Hideki , Shimizu Masumi , Negishi Yasuyuki , Uchida Eiji , Takahashi Hidemi
Published: March 2017

Cancer immunity is mediated through the effective priming and activation of tumour‐specific class I MHC molecule‐restricted CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). DEC‐205+ dendritic cells (DCs) can cross‐present the epitope(s) of captured tumour antigens associated with class I MHC molecules alongside co‐stimulatory molecules to prime and activate tumour‐specific CD8+ CTLs. Immunosuppressive tolerogenic DCs with reduced co‐stimulatory molecules may be a cause of impaired CTL induction. Hepa1‐6‐1 cells were established from the mouse hepatoma cell line Hepa1‐6; these cells grow continuously after subcutaneous implantation into syngeneic C57BL/6 (B6) mice and do not prime CD8+ CTLs. In this study, we show that the growth of ongoing tumours was suppressed by activated CD8+ CTLs with tumour‐specific cytotoxicity through the administration of the glycolipid α‐galactosylceramide (α‐GalCer), which is a compound known to stimulate invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells and selectively activate DEC‐205+ DCs. Moreover, we demonstrated that sequential repetitive intraperitoneal inoculation with α‐GalCer every 48 hr appeared to convert tolerogenic DEC‐205+ DCs into immunogenic DCs with a higher expression of co‐stimulatory molecules and a stronger cross‐presentation capacity, which primed CTL precursors and induced tumour‐specific CD8+ CTLs within the tumour environment without activating iNKT cells. These findings provide a new basis for cancer immunotherapy to convert tolerogenic DEC‐205+ DCs within tumours into immunogenic DCs through the sequential administration of an immuno‐potent lipid/glycolipid, and then activated immunogenic DCs with sufficient expression of co‐stimulatory molecules prime and activate tumour‐specific CD8+ CTLs within the tumour to control tumour growth.
Impact of a nurse practitioner role on metabolic monitoring completion and referrals for consumers admitted to the intensive care area of an acute inpatient psychiatric unit
Authors: Brown Trudy , McKenna Brian , Furness Trentham
Published: March 2017

Mental illness increases a person's risk of physical health issues, including cardiovascular disease, leading to premature morbidity and mortality. Screening for cardiovascular disease through metabolic monitoring is recommended to aid in early detection. The aim of the present study was to ascertain whether consumers admitted to an inpatient mental health unit receive routine metabolic monitoring, and to explore the contribution of a nurse practitioner to metabolic monitoring and the actioning of abnormal results. The present study used a retrospective mirror image cohort method to look at clinical consumer files for two separate 6‐month periods before and after a nurse practitioner role commenced. Metabolic monitoring variables were computed as completion frequencies and percentages. Univariate analyses were computed to describe differences among metabolic monitoring variables. A total of 497 consumers were admitted to the mental health inpatient unit's intensive care area across the two 6‐month data‐collection periods. Prior to the nurse practitioner role, only 2% of consumers had their body mass index (BMI) risk calculated; less than 1% had their waist circumference measured, and no abnormal results were referred to a general practitioner (GP). After the nurse practitioner role commenced, BMI risk was calculated for 67% of consumers, waist circumference recorded for 68%, and referrals for abnormal results were forwarded to 37 consumers’ GPs. A nurse practitioner on the inpatient mental health unit has allowed for a considerable increase in the metabolic screening of admitted consumers resulting in a number of referrals being forwarded to consumers’ GPs to be acted upon.
Changing nurse licensing examinations: media analysis and implications of the Canadian experience
Authors: McGillis Hall L. , Lalonde M. , Kashin J. , Yoo C. , Moran J.
Published: March 2017

Aim

This study examines perceptions of the implementation of National Council Licensing Examination in Canada through a content analysis of articles in the media.

Background

Public opinions of nursing in the media have been acknowledged as important for the profession, specifically in relation to their portrayal of nursing.

Introduction

The Canadian Council of Registered Nurse Regulators began using the US‐based National Council Licensing Examination as entry examination (also known widely as NCLEX) for Canada's registered nurses, discontinuing the previous Canadian Registered Nurse Examination in 2015.

Methods

A qualitative content analysis was conducted of media reports that emerged following adoption of the National Council Licensing Examination in Canada, and highlight the image of nursing portrayed in the media during this key regulatory policy change.

Results

Release of the examination results for the first three quarters of 2015 identified a much lower overall Canadian pass rate than with the previous exam. Media reports highlight differences in perception of the examination between Canadian regulators and other stakeholders in the context of the examination experiences reported and test results. Issues around applicability of the examination to Canadian nursing practice, curriculum alignment, language translation concerns and stakeholder engagement were identified.

Discussion

The implementation of the National Council Licensing Examination in Canada highlighted lack of communication among nursing stakeholders in the country.

Conclusions

Most of the media reporting has been negative and poses a reputational risk to the Canadian nursing profession.

Implications for Nursing Policy

This change in the licensing requirement has significant policy implications for nursing in Canada and globally. Issues such as appropriate examination translation, access to appropriate test preparation materials, assurance that the examination reflects distinctive aspects of a country's healthcare system and the need for stakeholder engagement were identified.
Dividend Policy and Informativeness of Reported Earnings: Evidence from the MENA Region
Authors: Farooq Omar , Shehata Nermeen , Nathan Siva
Published: March 2017

This paper documents that informativeness of reported earnings, measured by earnings–return relation, is an increasing function of dividend payout ratio in the Middle East and North Africa region during the period between 2003 and 2014. We argue that higher dividends reduce agency conflicts. Lower agency problems lead firms to disclose information more truthfully, thereby improving credibility of reported earnings. We also show that our results hold for various proxies of dividend policy.
Heuristics for tactical time slot management: a periodic vehicle routing problem view
Authors: Hernandez Florent , Gendreau Michel , Potvin Jean‐Yves
Published: March 2017

In this study, we consider a tactical problem where a time slot schedule for delivery service over a given planning horizon must be selected in each zone of a geographical area. A heuristic search evaluates each schedule selection by constructing a corresponding tactical routing plan of minimum cost based on demand and service time estimates. At the end, the schedule selection leading to the best tactical routing plan is selected. The latter can then be used as a blueprint when addressing the operational problem (i.e., when real customer orders are received and operational routes are constructed). We propose two heuristics to address the tactical problem. The first heuristic is a three‐phase approach: a periodic vehicle routing problem (PVRP) is first solved, followed by a repair phase and a final improvement phase where a vehicle routing problem (VRP) with time windows is solved for each period of the planning horizon. The second heuristic tackles the problem as a whole by directly solving a PVRP with time windows. Computational results compare the two heuristics under various settings, based on instances derived from benchmark instances for the VRP with time windows.
Changes in nutritional status in nursing home residents and associated factors in nutritional status decline: a secondary data analysis
Authors: Bauer Silvia , Halfens Ruud J.G. , Lohrmann Christa
Published: March 2017

Aims

The aim of this study was to describe changes in the nutritional status of nursing home residents over a period of 1 year and identify factors associated with a decline in nutritional status.

Background

The maintenance of good nutritional status is important for nursing home residents. Therefore, it is essential to identify risk factors that indicate a decline in nutritional status to take early prevention steps.

Design

Secondary data analysis of repeated cross‐sectional studies.

Methods

Data collection was performed between 2009–2013 using the International Prevalence Measurement of Care Problems questionnaire. Data from three purposively selected nursing homes that included 157 residents were analysed.

Results

The comparison between baseline data and data collected 1 year later showed that the nutritional status declined in 22·8% of the residents and improved in 6·5% of the cases. The body mass index and changes in the body mass index were significantly different between residents with stable/improved and declined nutritional status. The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that care dependency, length of stay, changes in body mass index and malnutrition risk at baseline were significantly associated with a decline in nutritional status.

Conclusion

This study showed that the baseline risk of malnutrition is the most important risk factor indicating a decline in nutritional status. Therefore, healthcare professionals should identify the malnutrition risk and take action as early as possible.
Are you with me or not? Temporal synchronicity and transactivity during CSCL
Authors: Popov V. , van Leeuwen A. , Buis S.C.A.
Published: March 2017

Do the simultaneous alignment of student activities (temporal synchronicity) and students successively building on each other's reasoning (transactivity) predict the quality of collaborative learning products? To address this question, we used a mixed‐method approach to study 74 first‐year university students who were randomly assigned to work in dyads on an ill‐defined problem of biodiversity collapse in tropical forests within a computer‐supported collaborative learning setting. The quantitative analysis revealed that neither temporal synchronicity nor transactivity was related to the quality of group products. The qualitative analysis of chat transcripts revealed that the variability between the groups could be explained by group dynamics, students' prior knowledge, confidence in managing the learning task, collaborative strategy and communication skills. The study findings could be used to optimize collaboration by informing students directly of their activities or the teachers that scaffold these activities.

Lay Description

What is already known about this topic:

Collaborative learning effort is influenced by how well students coordinate their activities across time and transact on each other's ideas.

What this paper adds:

This study examines the relation between temporal synchronicity, transactivity and the quality of group products in the context of synchronous computer‐supported collaborative learning.

Neither temporal synchronicity nor transactivity was found to be directly related to the quality of group products.

Implications for practice and/or policy:

Collaboration groups require socio‐cognitive support not only based on the attunement of their efforts but also based on differences within groups.
Conventional versus 3‐D Echocardiography to Predict Arrhythmia Recurrence After Atrial Fibrillation Ablation
Authors: BOSSARD MATTHIAS , KNECHT SVEN , AESCHBACHER STEFANIE , BUECHEL RONNY R. , HOCHGRUBER THOMAS , ZIMMERMANN ANDREAS J. , KESSEL‐SCHAEFER ARNHEID , STEPHAN FRANK‐PETER , VÖLLMIN GIAN , PRADELLA MAURICE , STICHERLING CHRISTIAN , OSSWALD STEFAN , KAUFMANN BEAT A. , CONEN DAVID , KÜHNE MICHAEL
Published: March 2017

Echocardiography to Predict AF Recurrence

Background

Arrhythmia recurrence after atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation remains high and requires repeat interventions in a substantial number of patients. We assessed the value of conventional and 3‐D echocardiography to predict AF recurrence.

Methods and Results

Consecutive patients undergoing AF ablation by means of pulmonary vein isolation were included in a prospective registry. Echocardiograms were obtained prior to the ablation procedure, and analyzed offline in a standardized manner, including 3‐D left atrial (LA) volumetry and determination of LA function and sphericity. The primary endpoint, AF recurrence (>30 seconds) between 3 to 12 months after AF ablation, was independently adjudicated. We included 276 patients (73% male, mean age 59.9 ± 9.9 years). Paroxysmal and persistent AF were present in 178 (64%) and 98 (36%) patients, respectively. Mean left ventricular ejection fraction and indexed LA volume in 3‐D (LAVI) were 52 ± 12% and 42 ± 13 mL/m2, respectively. AF recurrence was observed in 110 (40%) patients after a single procedure. Median (interquartile range) time to AF recurrence was 123 (92; 236) days. In multivariable Cox regression models, the only predictors for AF recurrence were the minimal, maximal, and indexed 3‐D LA volumes, P = 0.024, P = 0.016, and P = 0.014, respectively. Quartile specific analysis of 3‐D LAVI showed an HR of 1.885 (95%CI 1.066–3.334; P for trend = 0.015) for the highest compared to the lowest quartile.

Conclusion

Our results show the important role of LA volume for the long‐term freedom from arrhythmia after AF ablation. These data also highlight the potential of 3‐D echocardiography in this context and may facilitate patient selection for AF ablation.
The short‐lived neon damsel Pomacentrus coelestis: implications for population dynamics
Authors: Kingsford M. J. , O'Callaghan M. D. , Liggins L. , Gerlach G.
Published: March 2017

Daily increments of Pomacentrus coelestis, an abundant and well‐studied fish, were validated for the life of the fish and depending on the location, age‐maxima were estimated to be 127–160 days on reefs separated by tens to hundreds of kilometres on the Great Barrier Reef. This contrasts with congeners and other damselfishes that live for 5 years or more. Otoliths of P. coelestis were thinner and had different patterns of banding when compared with relatively long‐lived congeners. It is suggested that banding patterns in P. coelestis may be related to patterns of maturation and spawning. The consequences of a short life would have a great influence on the population dynamics of this widespread species. Further, the demographics and habitat preferences of this species suggest rapid colonization and establishment of breeding populations that would quickly change the relative abundance of sympatric fishes.
Architectural differences in the anterior and middle compartments of the pelvic floor of young‐adult and postmenopausal females
Authors: Wu Yi , Dabhoiwala Noshir F. , Hagoort Jaco , Tan Li‐Wen , Zhang Shao‐Xiang , Lamers Wouter H.
Published: March 2017

The pelvic floor guards the passage of the pelvic organs to the exterior. The near‐epidemic prevalence of incontinence in women continues to generate interest in the functional anatomy of the pelvic floor. However, due to its complex architecture and poor accessibility, the classical ‘dissectional’ approach has been unable to come up with a satisfactory description, so that many aspects of its anatomy continue to raise debate. For this reason, we opted for a ‘sectional’ approach, using the Chinese Visible Human project (four females, 21–35 years) and the Visible Human Project (USA; one female, 59 years) datasets to investigate age‐related changes in the architecture of the anterior and middle compartments of the pelvic floor. The puborectal component of the levator ani muscle defined the levator hiatus boundary. The urethral sphincter complex consisted of a circular proximal portion (urethral sphincter proper), a sling that passed on the vaginal wall laterally to attach to the puborectal muscle (urethral compressor), and a circular portion that surrounded the distal urethra and vagina (urethrovaginal sphincter). The exclusive attachment of the urethral sphincter to soft tissues implies dependence on pelvic‐floor integrity for optimal function. The vagina was circular at the introitus and gradually flattened between bladder and rectum. Well‐developed fibrous tissue connected the inferior vaginal wall with urethra, rectum and pelvic floor. With eight‐muscle insertions, the perineal body was a strong, irregular fibrous node that guarded the levator hiatus. Only loose areolar tissue comprising a remarkably well developed venous plexus connecting the middle and superior parts of the vagina with the lateral pelvic wall. The posterolateral boundary of the putative cardinal and sacrouterine ligaments coincided with the adventitia surrounding the mesorectum. The major difference between the young‐adult and postmenopausal pelvic floor was the expansion of fat in between the components of the pelvic floor. We hypothesize that accumulation of pelvic fat compromises pelvic‐floor cohesion, because the pre‐pubertal pelvis contains very little fibrous and adipose tissue, and fat is an excellent lubricant.
Characteristics of communication with older people in home care: A qualitative analysis of audio recordings of home care visits
Authors: Kristensen Dorte V , Sundler Annelie J , Eide Hilde , Hafskjold Linda , Ruud Iren , Holmström Inger K
Published: March 2017

Aims and objectives

To describe the characteristics of communication practice in home care visits between older people (over 65 years old) and nurse assistants and to discuss the findings from a person‐centered perspective.

Background

The older population is increasing worldwide, along with the need for healthcare services in the person's home. To achieve a high‐quality care, person‐centered communication is crucial.

Design

A descriptive design with a qualitative inductive approach was used.

Method

Fifteen audio recordings of naturally occurring conversations between 12 nurse assistants and 13 older people in Norway were analysed by qualitative content analysis.

Results

Four categories were revealed through analysis: (i) supporting older people's connection to everyday life; (ii) supporting older people's involvement in their own care; (iii) attention to older people's bodily and existential needs; and (iv) the impact of continuity and predictability on older people's well‐being.

Conclusions

The communication between the older people and the nurse assistants during home care visits was mainly task‐oriented, but also related to the person. The older people were involved in the tasks to be carried out and humour was part of the communication. Greater attention was paid to bodily than existential needs. The communication was connected with the older people's everyday life in several ways. Time frames and interruptions concern the older people; hearing and speech impairments were a challenge to communication. To enhance person‐centred communication, further studies are needed, especially intervention studies for healthcare professionals and students.

Relevance to clinical practice

Being responsive to older people's subjective experiences is important in meeting their needs in home care. Communication that addresses the need for trust and predictability is important for older people. Responding to existential needs require more attention. The home care setting has an impact on communication.
Effect of high‐frequency bio‐oxidative ozone therapy for masticatory muscle pain: a double‐blind randomised clinical trial
Authors: Celakil T. , Muric A. , Gokcen Roehlig B. , Evlioglu G. , Keskin H.
Published: March 2017

To evaluate the effect of bio‐oxidative ozone application at the points of greatest pain in patients with chronic masticatory muscle pain. A total number of 40 (40 women, with a mean age of 31·7) were selected after the diagnosis of myofacial pain dysfunction syndrome according to the Research Diagnostic Criteria for temporomandibular disorder (RDC/TMD). The patients were randomly divided into two groups: patients received the ozone therapy at the point of greatest pain, ozone group (OG; n = 20); patients received the sham ozone therapy at the point of greatest pain, placebo group (PG; n = 20). Ozone and placebo were applied three times per week, for a total of six sessions. Mandibular movements were examined, masticator muscles tenderness were assessed and pressure pain threshold (PPT) values were obtained. Subjective pain levels were evaluated using visual analogue sale (VAS). These assessments were performed at baseline, 1 month and 3 months. Ozono therapy decreased pain intensity and increased PPT values significantly from baseline to 1 month and 3 months in OG compared with PG. PPTs of the temporal (OG = 24·85 ± 6·65, PG = 20·65 ± 5·43, P = 0.035) and masseter (OG = 19·03 ± 6·42, PG = 14·23 ± 2·95, P = 0.007) muscles at 3 months of control (T2) were significantly higher in the OG group. PPT value of the lateral pole was also significantly higher at T2 in the OG group (OG = 21·25 ± 8·43, PG = 15·35 ± 4·18, P = 0.012). Mandibular movements did not show significant differences between treatment groups except right lateral excursion values at T2 (OG = 8·90 ± 1·77, PG = 6·85 ± 2·41, P = 0.003); however, OG demonstrated significantly better results over time. Overall improvements in VAS scores from baseline to 3 months were OG 67·7%; PG 48·4%. Although ozone therapy can be accepted as an alternative treatment modality in the management of masticatory muscle pain, sham ozone therapy (placebo) showed significant improvements in the tested parameters.
How to treat two adjacent missing teeth with dental implants. A systematic review on single implant‐supported two‐unit cantileverFDP's and results of a 5‐year prospective comparative study in the aesthetic zone
Authors: Van Nimwegen W. G. , Raghoebar G. M. , Tymstra N. , Vissink A. , Meijer H. J. A.
Published: March 2017

To conduct a systematic review on the clinical outcome of single implant‐supported two‐unit cantileverFDP's and to conduct a 5‐year prospective comparative pilot study of patients with a missing central and lateral upper incisor treated with either a single implant‐supported two‐unit cantileverFDPor two implants with solitary implant crowns in the aesthetic zone. Medline, Embase and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched (last search 1 August 2016) for eligible studies. In the comparative pilot study, an implant‐cantilever group of five patients with a single implant‐supported two‐unit cantileverFDP(NobelReplace Groovy Regular Platform) was compared with an implant‐implant group of five patients with two adjacent single implant‐supported crowns (NobelReplace Groovy Regular Platform) in the aesthetic zone. Implant survival, marginal bone level (MBL) changes, pocket probing depth, papilla index and patient satisfaction were assessed during a 5‐year follow‐up period. Five of 276 articles were considered eligible for data extraction. Implant survival ranged from 96·6% to 100%. Marginal bone level changes were higher in the anterior region than in the posterior region. Technical complications occurred more often in the posterior than anterior region. In the 5‐year comparative pilot study, no clinically significant differences in hard and soft peri‐implant tissue levels occurred between both groups. Single implant‐supported two‐unit cantileverFDP’s can be a viable alternative to the placement of two adjacent single implant crowns in the aesthetic zone. Due to technical complications, placement of two‐unit cantilever crowns in the posterior region can be considered unwise.
Non‐operative control of cavitated approximal caries lesions in primary molars: a prospective evaluation of cases
Authors: Hansen N. V. , Nyvad B.
Published: March 2017

The effect of non‐operative caries control at cavity level is often questioned. This prospective study of cases aimed to evaluate the suitability of non‐operative treatment of active cavitated approximal caries lesions in primary molars by assessing clinical changes of lesions over time. Further, we evaluate children's and parents’ attitudes in response to non‐operative cavity treatment. Thirty‐nine children attending a community dental service, aged 5–11 years, joined the evaluation based on the following criteria: (i) the presence of at least one active cavitated caries lesion in the distal surface of first primary molar or mesial surface of the second primary molar extending up to two‐thirds into dentin assessed radiographically, (ii) the absence of spontaneous pain, (iii) the absence of pulpal or periapical pathology. After informed consent, one randomly selected lesion per child had overhanging enamel margins adjusted and was treated non‐operatively by the child/parent performing daily site‐specific oral hygiene with a fluoridated toothpaste, supplemented by professional topical fluoride treatment and dietary advice. Nine lesions/children dropped out. Fifteen lesions survived without pulpal or periapical pathology for an average of 26 m (range 9–44). Lesion failure was associated with poor compliance or lesions not suited for the method. Children and parents were highly satisfied with the treatment. Our study identifies key factors in the performance of non‐operative cavity treatment in a dental practice setting. It is concluded that non‐operative cavity treatment can be a helpful method to control caries lesion progression in primary teeth and may familiarise the child with dental treatment.
The formation of a host-guest inclusion complex system between β-cyclodextrin and baicalin and its dissolution characteristics
Authors: Li Jing , Jiang Qihua , Deng Ping , Chen Qian , Yu Mingan , Shang Jingchuan , Li Wei
Published: March 2017

Objectives

Baicalin (BCL) has potential therapeutic benefits, but its clinical outcomes are restricted mainly because of low water solubility. This study sought to improve the water solubility of BCL by the formation of inclusion complex with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD).

Methods

The inclusion complex was studied by solubility test, differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), 1H Nuclear magnetic resonance (1HNMR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Molecular docking was conducted to verify the experimental findings. The dissolution rate was determined by dialysis membrane method. In vivo absorption studies in rats were conducted and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to analyse the plasma level of BCL after oral administration.

Key findings

The DSC, FTIR, XRD, 1HNMR and SEM findings suggested the formation of inclusion complex between BCL and β-CD in 1 : 1 stoichiometry. Molecular docking demonstrated the insertion of benzene ring of BCL into β-CD cavity by hydrophobic interactions and possible H-bond formation. Moreover, β-CD markedly improved the solubility of BCL and displayed AL-type phase diagrams. The improvement in dissolution rate of the inclusion complex was reflected in the earlier Tmax, higher Cmax and larger AUC0–t than that of BCL after oral administration.

Conclusions

β-cyclodextrin complex can be used as an effective formulation strategy for development of BCL-loaded delivery system with better therapeutic outcomes.
Psychopathy, criminal intentions, and abnormal appraisal of the expected outcomes of theft
Authors: Próspero‐Luis João , Moreira Pedro S. , Paiva Tiago O. , Teixeira Cátia P. , Costa Patrício , Almeida Pedro R.
Published: March 2017

Purpose

Impaired emotional learning is one of the hallmark features of psychopathy. The abnormal processing of cues of reward and punishment, and its impact in decision‐making, has mostly been supported by laboratorial studies. In this report, we have analysed the effect of psychopathy in the formation of attitudes towards committing theft, and its impact in the intention to reoffend after release.

Methods

A self‐report instrument to characterize the predictors of the intention to reoffend was developed and administrated, along with the Triarchic Psychopathy Measure, to a sample of 91 male inmates convicted for theft.

Results

The perceived rewards of theft mediated the association between psychopathic traits and the intention to reoffend. The analysis of the expectancy and value components of the attitude towards theft showed that psychopathic traits are associated with reduced expectancy of negative outcomes and increased expectancy of positive outcomes as a consequence of reoffending.

Conclusions

Our results add support to the role of disrupted expectancy–value learning and increased reward sensitivity as mediators of the increased probability to reoffend in psychopathy.
UGT1A polymorphisms as genetic biomarkers for hepatocellular carcinoma risk in Caucasian population
Authors: De Mattia Elena , Cecchin Erika , Polesel Jerry , Lupo Francesco , Tiribelli Claudio , Crovatto Marina , Buonadonna Angela , Toffoli Giuseppe
Published: March 2017

Background & Aims

The definition of new biomarkers of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk, especially in high‐risk HBV/HCV‐positive population, is urgently needed to improve HCC clinical management. This study focused on variants of UDP‐glucuronosyltransferase 1A (UGT1A) enzymes that catalyse the reaction of glucuronidation, one of the most important chemical defence pathway of the body. The aim of this study was to elucidate the contribution of UGT1A polymorphisms in predicting HCC susceptibility in Caucasians.

Methods

In this retrospective case‐control analysis, 192 HCC liver transplanted patients represent the study group. Two age/sex‐matched groups were used as control, one composed of 167 HBV‐ and/or HCV‐infected individuals, and the other of 192 healthy subjects. All the cases were characterized for a panel of UGT1A1, UGT1A7 and UGT1A9 variants. The study end‐point was the association between UGT1A markers and HCC onset.

Results

UGT1A7*3 allele emerged as a protective marker for HCC development among both high‐risk HBV/HCV‐positive patients (OR=0.64, P=.0026), and healthy subjects (OR=0.47, P=.0051). UGT1A1*28 (OR=0.61, P=.0013) and UGT1A9*22 (OR=2.18, P=.0003) alleles were also associated to HCC occurrence, especially among healthy subjects. UGT1A haplotype, summarizing the UGT1A genetic alterations, confirmed the protective role against HCC development emerged for low‐activity alleles. The observed associations could probably be linked to an increase of serum levels of health‐beneficial molecules including free bilirubin.

Conclusion

A predictive effect of UGT1A polymorphisms on HCC risk was identified. If confirmed, these findings could contribute to improve the HCC surveillance, treatment tailoring and patients care.
Clinical risk scoring for predicting non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in metabolic syndrome patients (NAFLD‐MS score)
Authors: Saokaew Surasak , Kanchanasuwan Shada , Apisarnthanarak Piyaporn , Charoensak Aphinya , Charatcharoenwitthaya Phunchai , Phisalprapa Pochamana , Chaiyakunapruk Nathorn
Published: March 2017

Background & Aims

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) can progress from simple steatosis to hepatocellular carcinoma. None of tools have been developed specifically for high‐risk patients. This study aimed to develop a simple risk scoring to predict NAFLD in patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS).

Methods

A total of 509 patients with MetS were recruited. All were diagnosed by clinicians with ultrasonography‐confirmed whether they were patients with NAFLD. Patients were randomly divided into derivation (n=400) and validation (n=109) cohort. To develop the risk score, clinical risk indicators measured at the time of recruitment were built by logistic regression. Regression coefficients were transformed into item scores and added up to a total score. A risk scoring scheme was developed from clinical predictors: BMI ≥25, AST/ALT ≥1, ALT ≥40, type 2 diabetes mellitus and central obesity. The scoring scheme was applied in validation cohort to test the performance.

Results

The scheme explained, by area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AuROC), 76.8% of being NAFLD with good calibration (Hosmer‐Lemeshow χ2=4.35; P=.629). The positive likelihood ratio of NAFLD in patients with low risk (scores below 3) and high risk (scores 5 and over) were 2.32 (95% CI: 1.90‐2.82) and 7.77 (95% CI: 2.47‐24.47) respectively. When applied in validation cohort, the score showed good performance with AuROC 76.7%, and illustrated 84%, and 100% certainty in low‐ and high‐risk groups respectively.

Conclusions

A simple and non‐invasive scoring scheme of five predictors provides good prediction indices for NAFLD in MetS patients. This scheme may help clinicians in order to take further appropriate action.
Cathodoluminescence of moldavites
Authors: Fritzke B. , Götze J. , Lange J.‐M.
Published: March 2017

A systematic study of a large set of moldavites and the application of cathodoluminescence (CL)‐spectroscopy with a detailed discussion of spectral features is presented. Optical CL microscopy and spectroscopy (OM‐CL) were performed on 57 moldavite samples from different substrewn‐fields in Germany and the Czech Republic. The extracted CL data were supported by SEM‐EDX analysis. In general, two different kinds of CL colors can be distinguished: different shades of green in the matrix of the tektite glasses and a variation of blue color for lechatelierite inclusions (a pure silica‐glass phase). Spectral analysis of these colors shows three CL emission bands for green and five bands for blue c. Most CL activators are structural defects of the local glass network, influenced by the crystal field. The visible green CL emission is caused by defects related to strong local disorder as well as Al‐O−‐Al defects. The blue CL emission is activated by different types of lattice defects such as nonbridging oxygen‐hole center (NBOHC), self‐trapped excitons (STE), and oxygen deficiency centers (ODC). Intensity variations of the CL emissions were observed for samples from the different localities, but there is no direct correlation between substrewn‐fields and CL characteristics. Nevertheless, CL microscopy is a powerful tool for the high‐contrast visualization of internal textures such as streaks and lechatelierite in the tektite matrix due to the luminescence properties of the defect structures in the glassy network.
Functional niche partitioning in Therizinosauria provides new insights into the evolution of theropod herbivory
Authors: Lautenschlager Stephan
Published: March 2017

Dietary specialization is generally considered to be a crucial factor in driving morphological evolution across extant and extinct vertebrates. The ability to adapt to a specific diet and to exploit ecological niches is thereby influenced by functional morphology and biomechanical properties. Differences in functional behaviour and efficiency can therefore allow dietary diversification and the coexistence of similarly adapted taxa. Therizinosauria, a group of secondarily herbivorous theropod dinosaurs, is characterized by a suite of morphological traits thought to be indicative of adaptations to an herbivorous diet. Digital reconstruction, theoretical modelling and computer simulations of the mandibles of therizinosaur dinosaurs provides evidence for functional niche partitioning in adaptation to herbivory. Different mandibular morphologies present in therizinosaurians were found to correspond to different dietary strategies permitting coexistence of taxa. Morphological traits indicative of an herbivorous diet, such as a downturned tip of the lower jaw and an expanded postdentary region, were identified as having stress mitigating effects. The more widely distributed occurrence of these purported herbivorous traits across different dinosaur clades suggests that these features also could have played an important role in the evolution and acquisition of herbivory in other groups.
The wheat Lr34 multipathogen resistance gene confers resistance to anthracnose and rust in sorghum
Authors: Schnippenkoetter Wendelin , Lo Clive , Liu Guoquan , Dibley Katherine , Chan Wai Lung , White Jodie , Milne Ricky , Zwart Alexander , Kwong Eunjung , Keller Beat , Godwin Ian , Krattinger Simon G. , Lagudah Evans
Published: March 2017

The ability of the wheat Lr34 multipathogen resistance gene (Lr34res) to function across a wide taxonomic boundary was investigated in transgenic Sorghum bicolor. Increased resistance to sorghum rust and anthracnose disease symptoms following infection with the biotrophic pathogen Puccinia purpurea and the hemibiotroph Colletotrichum sublineolum, respectively, occurred in transgenic plants expressing the Lr34res ABC transporter. Transgenic sorghum lines that highly expressed the wheat Lr34res gene exhibited immunity to sorghum rust compared to the low‐expressing single copy Lr34res genotype that conferred partial resistance. Pathogen‐induced pigmentation mediated by flavonoid phytoalexins was evident on transgenic sorghum leaves following P. purpurea infection within 24–72 h, which paralleled Lr34res gene expression. Elevated expression of flavone synthase II, flavanone 4‐reductase and dihydroflavonol reductase genes which control the biosynthesis of flavonoid phytoalexins characterized the highly expressing Lr34res transgenic lines 24‐h post‐inoculation with P. purpurea. Metabolite analysis of mesocotyls infected with C. sublineolum showed increased levels of 3‐deoxyanthocyanidin metabolites were associated with Lr34res expression, concomitant with reduced symptoms of anthracnose.
A reconfigured Kennedy pathway which promotes efficient accumulation of medium‐chain fatty acids in leaf oils
Authors: Reynolds Kyle B. , Taylor Matthew C. , Cullerne Darren P. , Blanchard Christopher L. , Wood Craig C. , Singh Surinder P. , Petrie James R.
Published: March 2017

Medium‐chain fatty acids (MCFA, C6‐14 fatty acids) are an ideal feedstock for biodiesel and broader oleochemicals. In recent decades, several studies have used transgenic engineering to produce MCFA in seeds oils, although these modifications result in unbalance membrane lipid profiles that impair oil yields and agronomic performance. Given the ability to engineer nonseed organs to produce oils, we have previously demonstrated that MCFA profiles can be produced in leaves, but this also results in unbalanced membrane lipid profiles and undesirable chlorosis and cell death. Here we demonstrate that the introduction of a diacylglycerol acyltransferase from oil palm, EgDGAT1, was necessary to channel nascent MCFA directly into leaf oils and therefore bypassing MCFA residing in membrane lipids. This pathway resulted in increased flux towards MCFA rich leaf oils, reduced MCFA in leaf membrane lipids and, crucially, the alleviation of chlorosis. Deep sequencing of African oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) and coconut palm (Cocos nucifera) generated candidate genes of interest, which were then tested for their ability to improve oil accumulation. Thioesterases were explored for the production of lauric acid (C12:0) and myristic (C14:0). The thioesterases from Umbellularia californica and Cinnamomum camphora produced a total of 52% C12:0 and 40% C14:0, respectively, in transient leaf assays. This study demonstrated that the introduction of a complete acyl‐CoA‐dependent pathway for the synthesis of MFCA‐rich oils avoided disturbing membrane homoeostasis and cell death phenotypes. This study outlines a transgenic strategy for the engineering of biomass crops with high levels of MCFA rich leaf oils.
Supernaturalism and Peace Activism: Expanding the Boundaries of Peace History
Authors: Danielson Leilah
Published: March 2017

Sherwood Eddy was one of the most influential figures in world Christianity and a major figure in the interwar peace movement, yet he has been neglected by scholars. This essay argues that religion served as the nexus of his radicalization, shaping how he interpreted social reality and imagined social change. The same was true of most other peace activists in the twentieth century; indeed, it is impossible to understand the substance of peace politics in the twentieth‐century United States without reference to religion. By taking religion seriously, we expand the boundaries of peace history and challenge historiographical dichotomies between pacifism and realism, liberal Protestantism and evangelicalism, American Christianity and internationalism, religion and radicalism.
Sterol glycosyltransferases required for adaptation of Withania somnifera at high temperature
Authors: Singh Gaurav , Tiwari Manish , Singh Surendra P. , Singh Ruchi , Singh Surendra , Shirke Pramod A. , Trivedi Prabodh K. , Misra Pratibha
Published: March 2017

Heat is a major environmental stress factor that confines growth, productivity, and metabolism of plants. Plants respond to such unfavorable conditions through changes in their physiological, biochemical and developmental processes. Withania somnifera, an important medicinal plant, grows in hot and dry conditions, however, molecular mechanisms related to such adaptive properties are not known. Here, we elucidated that members of the sterol glycosyltransferases (SGT) gene family play important roles in the survival of W. somnifera under adverse conditions through maintaining the integrity of the membrane. SGTs are enzymes involved in sterol modifications and participate in metabolic flexibility during stress. Silencing of WsSGT members, for instance WsSGTL1, WsSGTL2 and WsSGTL4, was inimical for important physiological parameters, such as electron transport rate, photochemical quantum yield, acceptor side limitation, non‐photochemical quenching (NPQ), Fv/Fm and net photosynthetic rate, whereas stomatal conductance, transpiration rate and dark respiration rates (Rds) were increased. Decreased NPQ and increased Rds helped to generate significant amount of ROS in the Wsamisgt lines. After heat stress, H2O2, lipid peroxidation and nitric oxide production increased in the Wsamisgt lines due to high ROS generation. The expression of HSPs in Wsamisgt lines might be involved in regulation of physiological processes during stress. We have also observed increased proline accumulation which might be involved in restricting water loss in the Wsamisgt lines. Taken together, our observations revealed that SGTL enzyme activity is required to maintain the internal damages of the cell against high temperature by maintaining the sterol vs sterol glycosides ratio in the membranes of W. somnifera.