bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Four Bleeding Risk Scores to Identify Rivaroxaban‐treated Patients With Venous Thromboembolism at Low Risk for Major Bleeding
Authors: Kline Jeffrey A. , Jimenez David , Courtney D. Mark , Ianus Juliana , Cao Lynn , Lensing Anthonie W.A. , Prins Martin H. , Wells Philip S.
Published: January 2016

Objectives

Outpatient treatment of acute venous thromboembolism (VTE) requires the selection of patients with a low risk of bleeding during the first few weeks of anticoagulation. The accuracy of four systems, originally derived for predicting bleeding in VTE treated with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs), was assessed in VTE patients treated with rivaroxaban.

Methods

All patients treated with rivaroxaban in the multinational EINSTEIN deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) trials were included. Major bleeding was defined as ≥2 g/dL drop in hemoglobin or ≥2‐unit blood transfusion, bleeding in critical area, or bleeding contributing to death. The authors examined the incidence of major bleeding in patients with low‐risk assignment by the systems of Ruiz‐Gimenez et al. (score = 0 to 1), Beyth et al. (score = 0), Kuijer et al. (score = 0), and Landefeld and Goldman. (score = 0). For clinical relevance, the definition of low risk for all scores except Kuijer includes all patients < 65 years with no prior bleeding history and no comorbid conditions (current cancer, renal insufficiency, diabetes mellitus, anemia, prior stroke, or myocardial infarction).

Results

A total of 4,130 patients (1,731 with DVT only, 2,399 with PE with or without DVT) were treated with rivaroxaban for a mean (±SD) duration of 207.6 (±95.9) days. Major bleeding occurred in 1.0% (40 of 4,130; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.7% to 1.3%) overall. Rates of major bleeding for low‐risk patients during the entire treatment period were similar: Ruiz‐Gimenez et al., 12 of 2,622 (0.5%; 95% CI = 0.2% to 0.8%); Beyth et al., nine of 2,249 (0.4%; 95% CI = 0.2% to 0.8%); Kuijer et al., four of 1,186 (0.3%; 95% CI = 0.1% to 0.9%); and Landefeld and Goldman, 11 of 2,407 (0.5%; 95% CI = 0.2% to 0.8%). At 30 days, major bleed rates for low‐risk patients were as follows: Ruiz‐Gimenez et al., five of 2,622 (0.2%; 95% CI = 0.1% to 0.4%); Beyth et al., five of 2,249 (0.2%; 95% CI = 0.1% to 0.5%); Kuijer et al., three of 1,186 (0.3%; 95% CI = 0.1% to 0.7%); and Landefeld and Goldman, seven of 2,407 (0.3%; 95% CI = 0.1% to 0.6%). No low‐risk patient had a fatal bleed.

Conclusions

Four scoring systems that use criteria obtained in routine clinical practice, derived to predict low bleeding risk with VKA treatment for VTE, identified patients with less than a 1% risk of major bleeding during full‐course treatment with rivaroxaban.
Changes in the utilization of psychiatric hospital facilities in Denmark by patients diagnosed with schizophrenia from 1970 through 2012
Authors: Jeppesen R. M. , Christensen T. , Vestergaard C. H.
Published: January 2016

Objective

The Danish psychiatric system has gone through several structural changes in the last four decades. The deinstitutionalization of the mental healthcare system was implemented in Denmark in the late 1970s with the intention of increasing out‐patient treatment. One of the aims in the reorganization was to treat the patient in the local environment rather than during long‐term hospitalization. This study focuses on the changes in the utilization of hospital facilities.

Method

Using register data from secondary healthcare treatment of patients diagnosed with schizophrenia in Denmark 1970–2012, we analysed the development in the use of hospital facilities.

Results

Our major finding was a 220% increase between 1970 and 2012 in the total number of hospital admissions due to schizophrenia each year, while at the same time the number of annual schizophrenia bed days was reduced by 76%. Furthermore, the readmission rate within a year after discharge with a diagnosis of schizophrenia reached 70% in 2012 compared to 51% in 1970. Finally, the total bed occupancy continued to rise over the four decades and has exceeded 100% in several years since 1999.

Conclusion

The findings indicate that the reorganization of the Danish mental healthcare system has created a problem of ‘revolving door’ schizophrenia patients’ who since the 1970s have been increasingly hospitalized but for shorter periods. Possible explanations of the findings are premature discharge of patients with schizophrenia due to lack of beds or/and that community psychiatry has not been providing adequate relapse prevention.
Polyceraty (multi‐horns) in Damara sheep maps to ovine chromosome 2
Authors: Greyvenstein O. F. C , Reich C. M. , van Marle‐Koster E. , Riley D. G. , Hayes B. J.
Published: January 2016

Polyceraty (presence of multiple horns) is rare in modern day ungulates. Although not found in wild sheep, polyceraty does occur in a small number of domestic sheep breeds covering a wide geographical region. Damara are fat‐tailed hair sheep, from the south‐western region of Africa, which display polyceraty, with horn number ranging from zero to four. We conducted a genome‐wide association study for horn number with 43 Damara genotyped with 606 006 SNP markers. The analysis revealed a region with multiple significant SNPs on ovine chromosome 2, in a location different from the mutation for polled in sheep on chromosome 10. The causal mutation for polyceraty was not identified; however, the region associated with polyceraty spans nine HOXD genes, which are critical in embryonic development of appendages. Mutations in HOXD genes are implicated in polydactly phenotypes in mice and humans. There was no evidence for epistatic interactions contributing to polyceraty. This is the first report on the genetic mechanisms underlying polyceraty in the under‐studied Damara.
Relative suitability of DMSO and NaHCO3 for reversal of RISUG® induced long‐term contraception
Authors: Ansari A. S. , Hussain M. , Khan S. R. , Lohiya N. K.
Published: January 2016

Among the vas‐based methods on trial, reversible inhibition of sperm under guidance (RISUG®), a co‐polymer of styrene and maleic anhydride is being projected as an effective alternative to No Scalpel Vasectomy. RISUG offers long‐term contraception with safety, efficacy in human trials and can be delivered by no‐scalpel injection. Currently, the procedure is under phase‐III clinical trial. However, reversal of this vas‐based drug‐induced contraception needs to be established in animal models prior to clinical trials to ensure its claim as an effective alternative for vasectomy. In the present investigation, the relative suitability of dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) and NaHCO3 for RISUG induced long‐term vas occlusion reversal was carried out in albino rats. Animals were allocated into four groups (n = 10), viz., sham‐operated control (group‐I), vas occlusion with RISUG for 360 days (group‐II), vas occlusion with RISUG for 360 days and reversal with DMSO (group‐III) and vas occlusion with RISUG for 360 days and reversal with NaHCO3 (group‐IV). A variable response in fertility was observed in different groups. Absolute sterility in group III at all mating intervals, while, zero percent fertility in groups II and IV following 90 days of occlusion was observed. Following reversal restoration of fertility with DMSO at 45 days, whereas, reversal by NaHCO3 at 30 days was noticed. Ejaculated spermatozoa of RISUG injected and initial intervals of reversed animals exhibited various degrees of abnormalities. The testes exhibited focal degeneration in vas occluded animals. The occluded lumen of the vas deferens contained an eosinated polymer with exfoliated epithelium. Following vas occlusion reversal, a complete regeneration in the vas epithelium was seen. All other parameters remained unaltered. The reversal with NaHCO3 resulted into an early resumption of fertility when compared with DMSO and the procedure found to be successful, feasible and safe up to F1 generation. Thus, RISUG provides a hope for reversible male contraceptives.
In Vivo Evaluation of Active and Passive Physiological Control Systems for Rotary Left and Right Ventricular Assist Devices
Authors: Gregory Shaun D. , Stevens Michael C. , Pauls Jo P. , Schummy Emma , Diab Sara , Thomson Bruce , Anderson Ben , Tansley Geoff , Salamonsen Robert , Fraser John F. , Timms Daniel
Published: January 2016

Preventing ventricular suction and venous congestion through balancing flow rates and circulatory volumes with dual rotary ventricular assist devices (VADs) configured for biventricular support is clinically challenging due to their low preload and high afterload sensitivities relative to the natural heart. This study presents the in vivo evaluation of several physiological control systems, which aim to prevent ventricular suction and venous congestion. The control systems included a sensor‐based, master/slave (MS) controller that altered left and right VAD speed based on pressure and flow; a sensor‐less compliant inflow cannula (IC), which altered inlet resistance and, therefore, pump flow based on preload; a sensor‐less compliant outflow cannula (OC) on the right VAD, which altered outlet resistance and thus pump flow based on afterload; and a combined controller, which incorporated the MS controller, compliant IC, and compliant OC. Each control system was evaluated in vivo under step increases in systemic (SVR ∼1400–2400 dyne/s/cm5) and pulmonary (PVR ∼200–1000 dyne/s/cm5) vascular resistances in four sheep supported by dual rotary VADs in a biventricular assist configuration. Constant speed support was also evaluated for comparison and resulted in suction events during all resistance increases and pulmonary congestion during SVR increases. The MS controller reduced suction events and prevented congestion through an initial sharp reduction in pump flow followed by a gradual return to baseline (5.0 L/min). The compliant IC prevented suction events; however, reduced pump flows and pulmonary congestion were noted during the SVR increase. The compliant OC maintained pump flow close to baseline (5.0 L/min) and prevented suction and congestion during PVR increases. The combined controller responded similarly to the MS controller to prevent suction and congestion events in all cases while providing a backup system in the event of single controller failure.
On the Use of the Platelet Activity State Assay for the In Vitro Quantification of Platelet Activation in Blood Recirculating Devices for Extracorporeal Circulation
Authors: Consolo Filippo , Valerio Lorenzo , Brizzola Stefano , Rota Paolo , Marazzato Giulia , Vincoli Valentina , Reggiani Stefano , Redaelli Alberto , Fiore Gianfranco
Published: January 2016

We designed an experimental setup to characterize the thrombogenic potential associated with blood recirculating devices (BRDs) used in extracorporeal circulation (ECC). Our methodology relies on in vitro flow loop platelet recirculation experiments combined with the modified‐prothrombinase platelet activity state (PAS) assay to quantify the bulk thrombin production rate of circulated platelets, which correlates to the platelet activation (PA) level. The method was applied to a commercial neonatal hollow fiber membrane oxygenator. In analogous hemodynamic environment, we compared the PA level resulting from multiple passes of platelets within devices provided with phosphorylcholine (PC)‐coated and noncoated (NC) fibers to account for flow‐related mechanical factors (i.e., fluid‐induced shear stress) together with surface contact activation phenomena. We report for the first time that PAS assay is not significantly sensitive to the effect of material coating under clinically pertinent flow conditions (500 mL/min), while providing straightforward information on shear‐mediated PA dynamics in ECC devices. Being that the latter is intimately dependent on local flow dynamics, according to our results, the rate of thrombin production as measured by the PAS assay is a valuable biochemical marker of the selective contribution of PA in BRDs induced by device design features. Thus, we recommend the use of PAS assay as a means of evaluating the effect of modification of specific device geometrical features and/or different design solutions for developing ECC devices providing flow conditions with reduced thrombogenic impact.
Prevalence and clinical impact of antiretinal antibodies in uveitis
Authors: ten Berge Josianne C. E. M. , Schreurs Marco W. J. , Vermeer Jacolien , Meester‐Smoor Magda A. , Rothova Aniki
Published: January 2016

Purpose

To determine the prevalence of serum antiretinal antibodies (ARAs) among patients with uveitis and establish their clinical relevance.

Methods

This prospective study assessed the presence of ARAs by indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) using primate retina in 126 patients with uveitis and 60 healthy controls. Clinical data of uveitis patients were collected from medical charts and included the classification of uveitis, cause of uveitis or its association with systemic disease, stage and activity of uveitis and specific retinal features. Correlations between the presence of specific ARAs and various clinical characteristics were analysed.

Results

The presence of ARAs was observed in 49 of 104 (47%) of patients with uveitis and in 10 of 59 (17%) of healthy controls (p < 0.001). Staining of the nuclear layers or the photoreceptors were both more often observed in patients with uveitis compared to healthy controls (p = 0.002 and p = 0.018, respectively). No specific associations were found between the presence of serum ARAs and various clinical characteristics.

Conclusion

Serum ARAs were more frequent in patients with uveitis compared to healthy controls, but their clinical role remains elusive. The assessment of intraocular production of specific ARAs may provide further insight into the role of ocular autoantibodies in diverse uveitis entities.
Prevalence, symptom patterns and management of episodic diarrhoea in the community: a population‐based survey in 11 countries
Authors: Hungin A. P. S. , Paxman L. , Koenig K. , Dalrymple J. , Wicks N. , Walmsley J.
Published: January 2016

Background

The extent of episodic diarrhoea in the community is relatively unknown.

Aim

To ascertain the prevalence, symptoms and management behaviours associated with self‐reported diarrhoea across 11 countries.

Methods

Community screening surveys were conducted using quota sampling of respondents to identify a nationally representative sample of individuals suffering from ‘episodic’ diarrhoea (occurring once a month or more often). Second‐phase in‐depth surveys provided data on epidemiology, symptoms, attributed causes and management of episodic diarrhoea.

Results

A total of 11 508 phase 1 and 6613 phase 2 surveys were completed. The prevalence of self‐reported episodic diarrhoea ranged from 16% to 23% across the 11 countries. The majority of episodic diarrhoea sufferers were female (57%) and were not diagnosed with pre‐existing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS); IBS diagnosis ranged from 9% in Mexico to 44% in Italy. Diarrhoea was frequently attributed to anxiety/stress, food‐related causes, gastrointestinal ‘sensitivity’ and menstruation. Accompanying symptoms included ‘stomach pain/cramping’ (35–62%), ‘stomach grumbling’ (29–68%) and ‘wind’ (18–74%). The proportion of episodic sufferers who reported treating their symptoms with remedies or medications ranged between 46% in Belgium and Canada and 90% in Mexico.

Conclusions

A substantial proportion of the population in middle‐ to high‐income countries report episodic diarrhoea in the absence of a pre‐existing diagnosis. These symptoms are likely to be associated with substantial social and economic costs, and have implications on how best to configure and guide self‐led, pharmacist‐led and primary care management.
Aspirin use is associated with lower indices of liver fibrosis among adults in the United States
Authors: Jiang Z. Gordon , Feldbrügge L. , Tapper E. B. , Popov Y. , Ghaziani T. , Afdhal N. , Robson S. C. , Mukamal K. J.
Published: January 2016

Background

Recent animal studies have shown that platelets directly activate hepatic stellate cells to promote liver fibrosis, whereas anti‐platelet agents decrease liver fibrosis. It is unknown whether platelet inhibition by aspirin prevents liver fibrosis in humans.

Aim

To examine the association between aspirin use and liver fibrosis among adults with suspected chronic liver disease.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional analysis using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III. We identified 1856 individuals with suspected chronic liver disease (CLD). The degree of liver fibrosis was determined using four validated fibrosis indices and a composite index.

Results

The use of aspirin was associated with a significantly lower composite liver fibrosis index calculated from FIB4, APRI, Forns and NFS [0.24 standard deviation (s.d.) units lower; 95% CI −0.42 to −0.06, P = 0.009]. The association of aspirin with lower fibrosis scores was significantly larger among those with suspected CLD compared to those without (−0.23 vs. −0.03 s.d. units; P interaction = 0.05). The negative association between aspirin use and lower fibrosis index was consistent across all four fibrosis indices (P = 0.002–0.08) in individuals with chronic viral hepatitis, suspected alcoholic liver disease and NASH. In comparison, no negative associations with liver fibrosis were seen with ibuprofen in parallel analyses.

Conclusions

The use of aspirin was associated with significantly lower indices of liver fibrosis among US adults with suspected chronic liver diseases. Aspirin and other anti‐platelet drugs warrant further investigation for the prevention and treatment of liver fibrosis.
Gender‐Sensitive Research in a Chinese Community
Authors: Chan T.M. Simon , Shaw Ian
Published: January 2016

The aim of this article is to foster an awareness of the need for gender‐sensitive research in the context of the methodological and ethical challenges posed by such research. We trace the development of gender sensitivity and masculinity in social work practice and research and connect this to an overview of the issues posed by research on sensitive topics. Reflecting on a research project involving Chinese male sexual abuse survivors, we draw conclusions illustrating and proposing a range of methodological practices and ethical safeguards. We underscore the importance of gender‐sensitivity in performing research on sensitive topics with men in a Chinese community.
Does Fire Trigger Seed Germination in the Neotropical Savannas? Experimental Tests with Six Cerrado Species
Authors: Fichino Betânia Santos , Dombroski Julia R. G. , Pivello Vânia R. , Fidelis Alessandra
Published: January 2016

The Cerrado (Brazilian savanna) is a biodiversity hotspot with a history of fire that goes back as far as 10 million years. Fire has influenced the evolution of several aspects of the vegetation, including reproduction and life cycles. This study tested how fire by‐products such as heat and smoke affect the germination of six species common to two Cerrado open physiognomies: wet grasslands and the campo sujo (grassland with scattered shrubs and dwarf trees). We subjected seeds collected in northern Brazil to heat shock and smoke treatments, both separately and combined, using different temperatures, exposure times, and smoke concentrations in aqueous solutions. High temperatures and smoke did not break seed dormancy nor stimulate germination of the Cerrado study species. However, seeds were not killed by high temperatures, indicating that they are fire‐tolerant. Our findings differed from those of other fire‐prone ecosystems (mostly of Mediterranean vegetation), where fire stimulates germination. Moreover, we provide important information regarding germination strategies of non‐woody Cerrado plants, showing the importance of considering the tolerance of seeds to high temperatures when evaluating fire‐related traits in fire‐prone ecosystems.
Classification of vegetative lagg types and hydrogeomorphic lagg forms in bogs of coastal British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Howie Sarah A. , van Meerveld Ilja (H.J.)
Published: January 2016

Key Messages

A classification scheme was developed for laggs (marginal transition zones) of bogs.

Regional differences in vegetative lagg types were observed.

Half of the studied laggs differed from the classic notion of a lagg as being topographically confined.
Novel combination of serum microRNA for detecting breast cancer in the early stage
Authors: Shimomura Akihiko , Shiino Sho , Kawauchi Junpei , Takizawa Satoko , Sakamoto Hiromi , Matsuzaki Juntaro , Ono Makiko , Takeshita Fumitaka , Niida Shumpei , Shimizu Chikako , Fujiwara Yasuhiro , Kinoshita Takayuki , Tamura Kenji , Ochiya Takahiro
Published: January 2016

MicroRNA (miRNA), which are stably present in serum, have been reported to be potentially useful for detecting cancer. In the present study, we examined the expression profiles of serum miRNA in several large cohorts to identify novel miRNA that can be used to detect early stage breast cancer. We comprehensively evaluated the serum miRNA expression profiles using highly sensitive microarray analysis. A total of 1280 serum samples of breast cancer patients stored in the National Cancer Center Biobank were used. In addition, 2836 serum samples were obtained from non‐cancer controls, 451 from patients with other types of cancers, and 63 from patients with non‐breast benign diseases. The samples were divided into a training cohort including non‐cancer controls, other cancers and breast cancer, and a test cohort including non‐cancer controls and breast cancer. The training cohort was used to identify a combination of miRNA that could detect breast cancer, and the test cohort was used to validate that combination. miRNA expressions were compared between patients with breast cancer and non‐breast cancer, and a combination of five miRNA (miR‐1246, miR‐1307‐3p, miR‐4634, miR‐6861‐5p and miR‐6875‐5p) was found to be able to detect breast cancer. This combination had a sensitivity of 97.3%, specificity of 82.9% and accuracy of 89.7% for breast cancer in the test cohort. In addition, this combination could detect early stage breast cancer (sensitivity of 98.0% for Tis).
GANP protein encoded on human chromosome 21/mouse chromosome 10 is associated with resistance to mammary tumor development
Authors: Kuwahara Kazuhiko , Yamamoto‐Ibusuki Mutsuko , Zhang Zhenhuan , Phimsen Suchada , Gondo Naomi , Yamashita Hiroko , Takeo Toru , Nakagata Naomi , Yamashita Daisuke , Fukushima Yoshimi , Yamamoto Yutaka , Iwata Hiroji , Saya Hideyuki , Kondo Eisaku , Matsuo Keitaro , Takeya Motohiro , Iwase Hirotaka , Sakaguchi Nobuo
Published: January 2016

Human chromosome 21 is known to be associated with the high risk of hematological malignancy but with resistance to breast cancer in the study of Down syndrome. In human cancers, we previously observed the significant alterations of the protein expression encoded by the ganp/MCM3AP gene on human chromosome 21q22.3. Here, we investigated GANP protein alterations in human breast cancer samples (416 cases) at various stages by immunohistochemical analysis. This cohort study clearly showed that expression of GANP is significantly decreased in human breast cancer cases with poor prognosis as an independent risk factor (relapse‐free survival, hazard ratio = 2.37, 95% confidence interval, 1.27–4.42, P = 0.007 [univariate analysis]; hazard ratio = 2.70, 95% confidence interval, 1.42–5.13, P = 0.002 [multivariate analysis]). To investigate whether the altered GANP expression is associated with mammary tumorigenesis, we created mutant mice that were conditionally deficient in the ganp/MCM3AP gene using wap‐cre recombinase transgenic mice. Mammary gland tumors occurred at a very high incidence in female mammary gland‐specific GANP‐deficient mice after severe impairment of mammary gland development during pregnancy. Moreover, tumor development also occurred in female post parous GANP‐heterodeficient mice. GANP has a significant role in the suppression of DNA damage caused by estrogen in human breast cancer cell lines. These results indicated that the GANP protein is associated with breast cancer resistance.
Mutational spectrum of Korean patients with corneal dystrophy
Authors: Chae H. , Kim M. , Kim Y. , Kim J. , Kwon A. , Choi H. , Park J. , Jang W. , Lee Y.S. , Park S.H. , Kim M.S.
Published: January 2016

Corneal dystrophy typically refers to a group of rare hereditary disorders with a heterogeneous genetic background. A comprehensive molecular genetic analysis was performed to characterize the genetic spectrum of corneal dystrophies in Korean patients. Patients with various corneal dystrophies underwent thorough ophthalmic examination, histopathologic examination, and Sanger sequencing. A total of 120 probands were included, with a mean age of 50 years (SD = 18 years) and 70% were female. A total of 26 mutations in five genes (14 clearly pathogenic and 12 likely pathogenic) were identified in 49 probands (41%). Epithelial–stromal TGFBI dystrophies, macular corneal dystrophy and Schnyder corneal dystrophy (SCD) showed 100% mutation detection rates, while endothelial corneal dystrophies showed lower detection rates of 3%. Twenty six non‐duplicate mutations including eight novel mutations were identified and mutations associated with SCD were identified genetically for the first time in this population. This study provides a comprehensive characterization of the genetic aberrations in Korean patients and also highlights the diagnostic value of molecular genetic analysis in corneal dystrophies.
The anal fistula plug in Crohn's disease patients with fistula‐in‐ano: a systematic review
Authors: Nasseri Y. , Cassella L. , Berns M. , Zaghiyan K. , Cohen J.
Published: January 2016

Aim

This study aimed to review, consolidate and analyse the findings of studies investigating the efficacy of anal fistula plugs (AFPs) in treating fistula‐in‐ano in patients with Crohn's disease.

Method

A literature review was conducted via Pubmed, Embase, Medline, Scopus and the Cochrane Library for the period 1995–2015. Articles were selected and reviewed based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results

A total of 16 studies were extracted, of which 12 were included in the systematic review. In total, 84 patients (n = 1–20 per study) with a median age of 45 (18–72) years and a median follow‐up time of 9 (3–24) months were analysed. The total success rate, defined as closure of the fistula tract, was 49/84 (58.3%, 95% CI 47–69). Success in patients with recurrent anal fistulae was 2/5 (40%, 95% CI 5–85). Overall, the success rates of Surgisis® and GORE® BIO‐A® brand plugs were 48/80 (60%, 95% CI 48–71) and 1/4 (25%, 95% CI 1–81). The recurrence rate of fistula‐in‐ano in the five studies that reported recurrence was 3/22 (13.6%). In two comparative studies, inferior overall success rates were found in patients who received preoperative immunomodulators vs those who did not [3/11 (27.3%) vs 17/23 (73.9%)].

Conclusion

The studies suggest that the use of an AFP in patients with Crohn's disease is a safe procedure with reasonable success, little morbidity and a low risk of incontinence. The current literature is limited by a number of factors, including small study cohorts, grouping of fistulae in Crohn's disease with other types of anal fistula, short and highly variable follow‐up times and multiple confounding factors such as number of fistula tracts, use of preoperative steroids or immunosuppressants, previous use of setons and variation in surgical technique.
A comparison of two methods of heart rate variability assessment at high altitude
Authors: Boos Christopher John , Bakker‐Dyos Josh , Watchorn Jim , Woods David Richard , O'Hara John Paul , Macconnachie Lee , Mellor Adrian
Published: January 2016

Heart rate variability (HRV) is a useful index of autonomic function and has been linked to the development of high altitude (HA) related illness. However, its assessment at HA has been undermined by the relative expense and limited portability of traditional HRV devices which have mandated at least a minute heart rate recording. In this study, the portable ithlete™ HRV system, which uses a 55 s recording, was compared with a reference method of HRV which utilizes a 5 min electrocardiograph recording (CheckMyHeart™). The root mean squares of successive R‐R intervals (RMSSD) for each device was converted to a validated HRV score (lnRMSSD × 20) for comparison. Twelve healthy volunteers were assessed for HRV using the two devices across seven time points at HA over 10 days. There was no significant change in the HRV values with either the ithlete (P = 0·3) or the CheckMyHeart™ (P = 0·19) device over the seven altitudes. There was also a strong overall correlation between the ithlete™ and CheckMyHeart™ device (r = 0·86; 95% confidence interval: 0·79–0·91). The HRV was consistently, though non‐significantly higher with ithlete™ than with the CheckMyHeart™ device [mean difference (bias) 1·8 l; 95% CI −12·3 to 8·5]. In summary, the ithlete™ and CheckMyHeart™ system provide relatively similar results with good overall agreement at HA.
Physical activity using wrist‐worn accelerometers: comparison of dominant and non‐dominant wrist
Authors: Dieu Olivier , Mikulovic Jacques , Fardy Paul S. , Bui‐Xuan Gilles , Béghin Laurent , Vanhelst Jérémy
Published: January 2016

The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is a difference in physical activity assessment between a wrist‐worn accelerometer at the dominant or non‐dominant arm. The secondary purpose was to assess the concurrent validity of measures of physical activity from the wrist‐worn accelerometer and the waist‐worn accelerometer. Forty adults wore three accelerometers simultaneously, one on the waist and one each on the non‐dominant wrist and dominant wrist, respectively, for 24 consecutive hours of free‐living conditions. Data were uploaded from the monitor to a computer following a 1‐day test period. There were no significant differences in physical activity when comparing the dominant versus the non‐dominant wrist, regardless of axis (P>0·05). Mean daily accelerometer output data from both wrists were strongly correlated with average counts per minute from the ActiGraph worn around the waist (r = 0·88, P<0·001). Findings suggest that the choice to wear the accelerometer on the non‐dominant or dominant wrist has no impact on results. Data from this study contribute to the knowledge of how to best assess physical activity habits.
Natural disturbance regimes as templates for the response of bird species assemblages to contemporary forest management
Authors: Drapeau Pierre , Villard Marc‐André , Leduc Alain , Hannon Susan J.
Published: January 2016

Aim

In managed forest landscapes, the tolerance of species to contemporary alteration of forest cover is often assumed to reflect their resilience to natural disturbances. We tested this central tenet of ecosystem‐based management by comparing the structure of forest bird assemblages among four regions with contrasting historical natural disturbance regimes.

Location

Canada's boreal and northern hardwood forests.

Methods

Using point count data from four study regions across Canada, we first determined the relative sensitivity of individual bird species to the contemporary reduction of old forest cover at stand and ‘landscape‐context’ (1‐km radius) scales with log‐linear models. The richness of species most sensitive to loss of old forest (hereafter ‘sensitive species’) was then modelled as a function of landscape‐scale changes in old forest cover. Differences in the rate of decline in the richness of sensitive species with contemporary cover of old forest were compared among regions using ANCOVA. We then compared broken‐stick regression models with linear models to detect thresholds, if present, in this relationship in each region.

Results

Bird assemblages from regions with relatively infrequent natural disturbances hosted more species sensitive to contemporary reduction in old forest cover. Those species were also more abundant than in regions with frequent natural disturbances, and the rate of decline in their richness with the loss of old forest was steeper in regions with infrequent natural disturbances than in those where they were frequent. However, we did not detect thresholds in this rate of decline in any study region.

Main conclusions

Our findings are consistent with the contention that historical natural disturbance regimes shape the response of biota to contemporary landscape alterations through evolutionary adaptation. We argue that forest management conducted within the natural range of variability in stand and landscape structure specific to a region is likely to be ecologically sustainable.
The Impact of Switching Costs on the Outsourcing of Knowledge‐Intensive Business Processes
Authors: Cui Zhijian
Published: January 2016

This study examines the impact of switching costs on vendor selection and contract efficiency in the outsourcing of knowledge‐intensive business services (KIBS). We show that under most plausible scenarios in KIBS outsourcing, there is an intrinsic tension between vendor selection and contract efficiency: in the process in which the winning vendor's bid constitutes the terms of the contract between client and vendor (e.g., competitive bidding), there is good selection but contract inefficiency (positive information rent paid by the client). If, by contrast, the client establishes the contract terms, then its performance yields contract efficiency but poor selection. We also highlight the implications of performance metrics for contract design in KIBS outsourcing.
Effectiveness of color intensity analysis using updated autofluorescence imaging systems for serrated lesions
Authors: Tamai Naoto , Inomata Hiroko , Ide Daisuke , Dobashi Akira , Saito Shoichi , Sumiyama Kazuki
Published: January 2016

Background and Aim

We previously reported the effectiveness of color intensity analysis using autofluorescence imaging (AFI) for differentiating colorectal neoplastic lesions from non‐neoplastic lesions. However, the ability of AFI systems for differentiating serrated lesions has not been evaluated. In the present study, we assessed the effectiveness of color intensity analysis using updated AFI systems for evaluating serrated lesions.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the data for 48 consecutive patients with 87 serrated lesions that were examined using updated AFI systems and resected at Jikei University Hospital. The mean green/red (G/R) ratio, which is obtained by dividing the mean green color intensities by the mean red color intensities, was calculated for each serrated lesion and compared between hyperplastic polyps, sessile serrated adenomas/polyps (SSA/P) with cytological dysplasia, and SSA/P without cytological dysplasia. We also assessed the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) for determining SSA/P (both with and without cytological dysplasia) and SSA/P with cytological dysplasia.

Results

The AUC for determining SSA/P was 0.68; however, the AUC for determining SSA/P with cytological dysplasia was 0.97. With a cut‐off for the G/R ratio of <0.93, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for SSA/P with cytological dysplasia were 95.5%, 91.0%, 77.8%, and 98.3%, respectively.

Conclusion

Color intensity analysis of serrated lesions using updated AFI systems could effectively distinguish SSA/P with cytological dysplasia from hyperplastic polyps and SSA/P without cytological dysplasia.
The Practices of Knowledge Creation: Collaboration Between Peripheral and Core Occupational Communities
Authors: Sapir Adi , Drori Israel , Ellis Shmuel
Published: January 2016

This study examines how members of core (engineers) and peripheral (technical writers) professional communities are creating new knowledge. Base of field observation and interviews from DigTel, an innovative technology firm, we explore how specific interaction mechanism, the chavruta, borrowed from Judaic religious tradition, creates dialogical practices that enable technical writers and engineers to capture each other's language and to reflexively create knowledge out of their discourse. We demonstrate how the chavruta enable to bridge status and power and transform occupational differences into collaboration. We provide a theoretical explanation for the way local knowledge created at the chavruta has served as a new context for new knowledge through engineers and technical writers managing three dialogical practices – learning, inquiry, negotiation and knowledge sharing.
Seemingly embedded but obviously exploitative relations: Organizational contingencies of mutual dependence, power imbalance and embedded relations
Authors: Özen Şükrü , Uysal Özgür Özmen , Çakar Mehmet
Published: January 2016

We examine effects of mutual dependence and power imbalance on embedded relations between organizations in an industrial district setting. Employing qualitative methodology, we conducted an exploratory research on manufacturer‐retailer relations in the Siteler Furniture District in Ankara. The findings indicated that manufacturer's size and retailer's competitive strategy shape their dependencies and embedded relations. Illustrating various patterns of relationships for different combinations of size and strategy in manufacturer‐retailer dyads, we found that mutual dependence enhances embedded relations. We also found that power imbalance does not necessarily hinder them, but generates one‐sided relations: the more dependent party tries to build them at the expense of being exploited by the less dependent one. Our study implies that embedded relations may entail exploitation particularly in governed networks where power inequalities are high.
Formation and removal of poly‐ubiquitin chains in the regulation of tumor necrosis factor‐induced gene activation and cell death
Authors: Kupka Sebastian , Reichert Matthias , Draber Peter , Walczak Henning
Published: January 2016

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is a potent cytokine known for its involvement in inflammation, repression of tumorigenesis and activation of immune cells. Consequently, accurate regulation of the TNF signaling pathway is crucial for preventing the potent noxious effects of TNF. These pathological conditions include chronic inflammation, septic shock, cachexia and cancer. The TNF signaling cascade utilizes a complex network of post‐translational modifications to control the cellular response following its activation. Next to phosphorylation, the ubiquitination of signaling complex components is probably the most important modification. This process is mediated by a specialist class of enzymes, the ubiquitin ligases. Equally important is the class of dedicated ubiquitin‐specific proteases, the deubiquitinases. Together with ubiquitin binding proteins, this ubiquitination–deubiquitination system enables the dynamics of signaling complexes. In TNF signaling, these dynamics translate into the precise regulation of the induction of gene activation or cell death. Here, we review and discuss current knowledge of TNF signaling regulation by the ubiquitin system.
The D1 family dopamine receptor, DopR, potentiates hind leg grooming behavior in Drosophila
Authors: Pitmon E. , Stephens G. , Parkhurst S. J. , Wolf F. W. , Kehne G. , Taylor M. , Lebestky T.
Published: January 2016

Drosophila groom away debris and pathogens from the body using their legs in a stereotyped sequence of innate motor behaviors. Here, we investigated one aspect of the grooming repertoire by characterizing the D1 family dopamine receptor, DopR. Removal of DopR results in decreased hind leg grooming, as substantiated by quantitation of dye remaining on mutant and RNAi animals vs. controls and direct scoring of behavioral events. These data are also supported by pharmacological results that D1 receptor agonists fail to potentiate grooming behaviors in headless DopR flies. DopR protein is broadly expressed in the neuropil of the thoracic ganglion and overlaps with TH‐positive dopaminergic neurons. Broad neuronal expression of dopamine receptor in mutant animals restored normal grooming behaviors. These data provide evidence for the role of DopR in potentiating hind leg grooming behaviors in the thoracic ganglion of adult Drosophila. This is a remarkable juxtaposition to the considerable role of D1 family dopamine receptors in rodent grooming, and future investigations of evolutionary relationships of circuitry may be warranted.
GSK3β isoform‐selective regulation of depression, memory and hippocampal cell proliferation
Authors: Pardo M. , Abrial E. , Jope R. S. , Beurel E.
Published: January 2016

Abnormally active glycogen synthase kinase‐3 (GSK3) contributes to pathological processes in multiple psychiatric and neurological disorders. Modeled in mice, this includes increasing susceptibility to dysregulation of mood‐relevant behaviors, impairing performance in several cognitive tasks and impairing adult hippocampal neural precursor cell (NPC) proliferation. These deficits are all evident in GSK3α/β knockin mice, in which serine‐to‐alanine mutations block the inhibitory serine phosphorylation regulation of both GSK3 isoforms, leaving GSK3 hyperactive. It was unknown if both GSK3 isoforms perform redundant actions in these processes, or if hyperactivity of one GSK3 isoform has a predominant effect. To test this, we examined GSK3α or GSK3β knockin mice in which only one isoform was mutated to a hyperactive form. Only GSK3β, not GSK3α, knockin mice displayed heightened vulnerability to the learned helplessness model of depression‐like behavior. Three cognitive measures impaired in GSK3α/β knockin mice showed differential regulation by GSK3 isoforms. Novel object recognition was impaired in GSK3β, not in GSK3α, knockin mice, whereas temporal order memory was not impaired in GSK3α or GSK3β knockin mice, and co‐ordinate spatial processing was impaired in both GSK3α and GSK3β knockin mice. Adult hippocampal NPC proliferation was severely impaired in GSK3β knockin mice, but not impaired in GSK3α knockin mice. Increased activity of GSK3β, in the absence of overexpression or disease pathology, is sufficient to impair mood regulation, novel object recognition and hippocampal NPC proliferation, whereas hyperactive GSK3α individually does not impair these processes. These results show that hyperactivity of the two GSK3 isoforms execute non‐redundant effects on these processes.
Historical precipitation predictably alters the shape and magnitude of microbial functional response to soil moisture
Authors: Averill Colin , Waring Bonnie G. , Hawkes Christine V.
Published: January 2016

Soil moisture constrains the activity of decomposer soil microorganisms, and in turn the rate at which soil carbon returns to the atmosphere. While increases in soil moisture are generally associated with increased microbial activity, historical climate may constrain current microbial responses to moisture. However, it is not known if variation in the shape and magnitude of microbial functional responses to soil moisture can be predicted from historical climate at regional scales. To address this problem, we measured soil enzyme activity at 12 sites across a broad climate gradient spanning 442–887 mm mean annual precipitation. Measurements were made eight times over 21 months to maximize sampling during different moisture conditions. We then fit saturating functions of enzyme activity to soil moisture and extracted half saturation and maximum activity parameter values from model fits. We found that 50% of the variation in maximum activity parameters across sites could be predicted by 30‐year mean annual precipitation, an indicator of historical climate, and that the effect is independent of variation in temperature, soil texture, or soil carbon concentration. Based on this finding, we suggest that variation in the shape and magnitude of soil microbial response to soil moisture due to historical climate may be remarkably predictable at regional scales, and this approach may extend to other systems. If historical contingencies on microbial activities prove to be persistent in the face of environmental change, this approach also provides a framework for incorporating historical climate effects into biogeochemical models simulating future global change scenarios.
Correlates of extinction risk in squamate reptiles: the relative importance of biology, geography, threat and range size
Authors: Böhm Monika , Williams Rhiannon , Bramhall Huw R. , McMillan Kirsten M. , Davidson Ana D. , Garcia Andrés , Bland Lucie M. , Bielby Jon , Collen Ben
Published: January 2016

Aim

Evaluating the relative roles of biological traits and environmental factors that predispose species to an elevated risk of extinction is of fundamental importance to macroecology. Identifying species that possess extinction‐promoting traits allows targeted conservation action before precipitous declines occur. Such analyses have been carried out for several vertebrate groups, with the notable exception of reptiles. We identify traits correlating with high extinction risk in squamate reptiles, assess whether these differ with geography, taxonomy and threats, and make recommendations for future Red List assessments.

Location

Global.

Methods

We collected data on biological traits and environmental factors for a representative sample of 1139 species of squamate reptiles. We used phylogenetically controlled regression models to identify general correlates of extinction risk, threat‐specific correlates of risk and realm‐specific correlates of risk. We also assessed the relative importance of range size versus other factors through multiplicative bivariate models, partial regressions and variance partitioning.

Results

Range size was the most important predictor of extinction risk, reflecting the high frequency of reptiles assessed under range‐basedIUCNcriteria. Habitat specialists occupying accessible ranges were at a greater risk of extinction: although these factors never contributed more than 10% to the variance in extinction risk, they showed significant interactions with range size. The predictive power of our global models ranged from 23% to 29%. The general overall pattern remained the same among geographical, taxonomic and threat‐specific data subsets.

Main conclusions

Proactive conservation requires shortcuts to identify species at high risk of extinction. Regardless of location, squamate reptiles that are range‐restricted habitat specialists living in areas highly accessible to humans are likely to become extinct first. Prioritizing species that exhibit such traits could forestall extinction. Integration of data sources on human pressures, such as accessibility of species ranges, may aid robust and time‐efficient assessments of species extinction risk.