bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spontaneous polyploidy, gynogenesis and androgenesis in second generation (F2) koi Cyprinus carpio × goldfish Carassius auratus hybrids
Authors: Delomas T. A. , Gomelsky B. , Anil A. , Schneider K. J. , Warner J. L.
Published: November 2016

The objective of this study was to characterize the genetics of second generation (F2) koi Cyprinus carpio × goldfish Carassius auratus hybrids. Spermatozoa produced by a novel, fertile F1 male were found to be diploid by flow‐cytometric analysis. Backcross (F1 female × C. carpio male and C. carpio female × F1 male) juveniles were triploid, confirming that female and male F1 hybrids both produced diploid gametes. The vast majority of surviving F2 juveniles was diploid and small proportions were aneuploid (2·1n–2·3n and 3·1n–3·9n), triploid (3n) and tetraploid (4n). Microsatellite genotyping showed that F2 diploids repeated either the complete maternal or the complete paternal genotype. Fish with the maternal genotype were female and fish with the paternal genotype were male. This demonstrates that F2 diploids were the result of spontaneous gynogenesis and spontaneous androgenesis. Analysis of microsatellite inheritance and the sex ratio in F2 crosses showed that spontaneous gynogenesis and androgenesis did not always occur in equal proportions. One cross was found to have an approximate equal number of androgenetic and gynogenetic offspring while in several other crosses spontaneous androgenesis was found to occur more frequently than spontaneous gynogenesis.
Factors Influencing Transitions Between Frailty States in Elderly Adults: The Progetto Veneto Anziani Longitudinal Study
Authors: Trevisan Caterina , Veronese Nicola , Maggi Stefania , Baggio Giovannella , Toffanello Elena Debora , Zambon Sabina , Sartori Leonardo , Musacchio Estella , Perissinotto Egle , Crepaldi Gaetano , Manzato Enzo , Sergi Giuseppe
Published: November 2016

Objectives

To investigate frailty state transitions in a cohort of older Italian adults to identify factors exacerbating or improving frailty conditions.

Design

Population‐based longitudinal study with mean follow‐up of 4.4 years.

Setting

Community.

Participants

Individuals enrolled in the Progetto Veneto Anziani (Pro.V.A.) (N = 2,925; n = 1,179 male, n = 1,746 female; mean age 74.4 ± 7.3).

Measurements

Frailty was identified at baseline and follow‐up based on the presence of at least three Fried criteria; prefrailty was defined as the presence of one or two Fried criteria. Anthropometric, socioeconomic, and clinical characteristics were assessed at baseline in a personal interview and clinical examination using validated scales and medical history.

Results

During the study period, 1,114 (38.1%) subjects retained their baseline frailty status, 1,066 (36.4%) had a transition in frailty status, and the remainder of the sample died. Older age, female sex, obesity, cardiovascular disease, osteoarthritis, smoking, loss of vision, low levels of self‐sufficiency and physical performance, cognitive impairment, hypovitaminosis D, hyperuricemia, and polypharmacy were associated with increasing frailty and greater mortality. Conversely, overweight, low to moderate drinking, high educational level, and living alone were associated with decreasing frailty.

Conclusions

Frailty was confirmed as a dynamic syndrome, with socioeconomic and clinical factors that could be targets of preventive actions influencing transitions to better or worse frailty status.
Trends in Operative and Nonoperative Hip Fracture Management 1990–2014: A Longitudinal Analysis of Manitoba Administrative Data
Authors: Cram Peter , Yan Lin , Bohm Eric , Kuzyk Paul , Lix Lisa M. , Morin Suzanne N. , Majumdar Sumit R. , Leslie William D.
Published: November 2016

Objectives

To evaluate longitudinal trends in the use of total hip arthroplasty (THA), hemiarthroplasty (HA), internal fixation (IF), and nonoperative management and to identify individual‐level factors associated with nonoperative treatment of hip fracture (HF).

Design

Longitudinal analysis of administrative data.

Setting

Manitoba, Canada.

Participants

All adults who experienced nontraumatic hip fractures between 1990 and 2014 (N = 19,626; mean age 80.6, 72.3% female).

Measurements

Billing codes were used to identify surgical treatment, and trends in treatment over time were examined. Regression models were developed to identify individual factors associated with receiving nonoperative management.

Results

Use of THA increased from 0.6% for all HFs in 1990–94 to 5.3% in 2010–14, use of HA increased from 19.3% to 29.7%, and use of IF declined from 71.8% to 59.9% (P < .001 for all); increase in THA and HA were largest in individuals with femoral neck fracture. Nonoperative management declined from 8.3% in 1990–94 to 5.1% in 2010–14 (P < .001). Factors associated with nonoperative management included aged 90 and older, male sex, residing in a care facility before fracture, and rural residence.

Conclusion

HF is increasingly treated with THA and HA, whereas rates of nonoperative management and IF are declining. Future efforts should focus on ensuring that all individuals are optimally triaged to the best procedure for them, with nonoperative management considered for individuals with extremely poor prefracture health.
High‐Dose Monthly Vitamin D for Prevention of Acute Respiratory Infection in Older Long‐Term Care Residents: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Ginde Adit A. , Blatchford Patrick , Breese Keith , Zarrabi Lida , Linnebur Sunny A. , Wallace Jeffrey I. , Schwartz Robert S.
Published: November 2016

Objectives

To determine the efficacy and safety of high‐dose vitamin D supplementation for prevention of acute respiratory infection (ARI) in older long‐term care residents.

Design

Randomized controlled trial investigating high‐dose vs standard‐dose vitamin D from 2010 to 2014.

Setting

Colorado long‐term care facilities.

Participants

Long‐term care residents aged 60 and older (n = 107).

Intervention

The high‐dose group received monthly supplement of vitamin D3 100,000 IU, the standard‐dose group received a monthly placebo (for participants taking 400–1,000 IU/d as part of usual care) or a monthly supplement of 12,000 IU of vitamin D3 (for participants taking <400 IU/d as part of usual care).

Measurements

The primary outcome was incidence of ARI during the 12‐month intervention. Secondary outcomes were falls and fractures, 25‐hydroxyvitamin D levels, hypercalcemia, and kidney stones.

Results

Participants (55 high dose, 52 standard dose) were randomized and included in the final analysis. The high‐dose group had 0.67 ARIs per person‐year and the standard‐dose group had 1.11 (incidence rate ratio (IRR) = 0.60, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.38–0.94, P = .02). Falls were more common in the high‐dose group (1.47 per person‐year vs 0.63 in standard‐dose group; IRR = 2.33, 95% CI = 1.49–3.63, P < .001). Fractures were uncommon and similar in both groups (high dose 0.10 vs standard dose 0.19 per person‐year; P = .31). Mean trough 25‐hydroxyvitamin D levels during the trial were 32. ng/mL in the high‐dose group and 25.1 ng/mL in the standard‐dose group. There was no hypercalcemia or kidney stones in either group.

Conclusion

Monthly high‐dose vitamin D3 supplementation reduced the incidence of ARI in older long‐term care residents but was associated with a higher rate of falls without an increase in fractures.
“Family Matters”: A Systematic Review of the Evidence For Family Psychoeducation For Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Brady Pamela , Kangas Maria , McGill Katherine
Published: November 2016

The first aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the evidence for family psychoeducation (FPE) interventions for major depressive disorder (MDD). A second aim was to compare the efficacy of different modes of delivering face‐to‐face FPE interventions. Ten studies (based on nine distinct samples) were identified comprising four single‐family studies, four multifamily studies, one single versus multifamily comparative study, and one peer‐led, mixed‐diagnosis study. Seven studies measured patient functioning and six reported positive outcomes. Six studies measured carer's well‐being and four reported positive outcomes. Results provide preliminary evidence that FPE leads to improved outcomes for patient functioning and family–carer's well‐being for persons with depression. The implications for future development and delivery of FPE interventions for MDD are discussed.
The regulator of calcineurin 1 increases adenine nucleotide translocator 1 and leads to mitochondrial dysfunctions
Authors: Jiang Hui , Zhang Chen , Tang Yu , Zhao Juan , Wang Tan , Liu Heng , Sun Xiulian
Published: November 2016

The over‐expression of regulator of calcineurin 1 isoform 1 (RCAN1.1) has been implicated in mitochondrial dysfunctions of Alzheimer's disease; however, the mechanism linking RCAN1.1 over‐expression and the mitochondrial dysfunctions remains unknown. In this study, we use human neuroblastoma SH‐SY5Y cells stably expressing RCAN1.1S and rat primary neurons infected with RCAN1.1S expression lentivirus to study the association of RCAN1 with mitochondrial functions. Our study here showed that the over‐expression of RCAN1.1S remarkably up‐regulates the expression of adenine nucleotide translocator (ANT1) by stabilizing ANT1 mRNA. The increased ANT1 level leads to accelerated ATP–ADP exchange rate, more Ca2+‐induced mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening, increased cytochrome c release, and eventually cell apoptosis. Furthermore, knockdown of ANT1 expression brings these mitochondria perturbations caused by RCAN1.1S back to normal. The effect of RCAN1.1S on ANT1 was independent of its inhibition on calcineurin. This study elucidated a novel function of RCAN1 in mitochondria and provides a molecular basis for the RCAN1.1S over‐expression‐induced mitochondrial dysfunctions and neuronal apoptosis.

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A mixed‐methods study exploring sign‐off mentorship practices in relation to the Nursing and Midwifery Council standards
Authors: Newton Joanna , Taylor Rachel M , Crighton Liz
Published: November 2016

Aims and objectives

To investigate the current practice and experience of sign‐off mentors in one NHS trust.

Background

In the UK, sign‐off mentors support nursing students in their last clinical placement and are accountable for the final assessment of fitness to practice as a registered nurse.

Design

Mixed‐methods study.

Methods

The focus was on two key Nursing and Midwifery Council standards: the requirement for students to work at least 40% of their time on clinical placement with a sign‐off mentor/mentor; the sign‐off mentor had one‐hour‐per‐week protected time to meet the final placement student. Data were collected through two audits of clinical and university documents and an experience survey administered to all sign‐off mentors in one trust.

Results

The audits showed that only 22/42 (52%) of students were supervised by their sign‐off mentor/mentor at least 40% of the time, whilst 10/42 (24%) students never worked a shift with their sign‐off mentor. Only one student met their sign‐off mentor every week. Complete data were available in 31/64 (47%) sign‐off mentors, of whom 21/30 (70%) rarely/never had reduced clinical commitment to mentor final placement students. Furthermore, 19/28 (68%) met their student after their shift had ended with 24/30 (80%) reporting not getting any protected time.

Conclusion

Sign‐off mentors have inadequate time and resources to undertake their role, yet are accountable for confirming the student has the required knowledge and skills to practise safely. The current model needs urgent review to improve mentoring standards.

Relevance to clinical practice

Understanding how the role of the sign‐off mentor is working in practice is critical to ensuring that the Nursing and Midwifery Council standards are met, ensuring students are well supported and appropriately assessed in practice, and mentoring is given the high profile it deserves to guarantee high‐quality care and protecting the public.
Stress, Coping, and Mood Among Latino Adolescents: A Daily Diary Study
Authors: Santiago Catherine DeCarlo , Brewer Stephanie K. , Fuller Anne K. , Torres Stephanie A. , Papadakis Jaclyn Lennon , Ros Anna M.
Published: November 2016

The current study examines whether daily coping moderates the effects of daily stress on same‐day mood and next‐day mood among 58 Latino adolescents (Mage = 13.31; 53% male). The daily diary design capitalized on repeated measurements, boosting power to detect effects and allowing for a robust understanding of the day‐to‐day experiences of Latino adolescents. Hierarchical linear modeling revealed that on days when youth reported higher levels of peer and academic stress, they also reported more negative moods. However, only poverty‐related stress predicted mood the following day. Engagement coping buffered the effect of poverty‐related stress on next‐day negative and positive mood, while disengagement exacerbated the effects of academic and peer stress. The need for interventions promoting balanced coping repertoires is discussed.
Neural Interaction Between Risk Sensitivity and Cognitive Control Predicting Health Risk Behaviors Among Late Adolescents
Authors: Kim‐Spoon Jungmeen , Deater‐Deckard Kirby , Lauharatanahirun Nina , Farley Julee P. , Chiu Pearl H. , Bickel Warren K. , King‐Casas Brooks
Published: November 2016

The developmental period of adolescence is characterized by increasing incidence of health risk behaviors (HRBs). Based on theoretical models that emphasize the moderating role of cognitive control, this study examined how neural correlates of cognitive control and risk sensitivity interact to predict HRBs among late adolescents (17–20 years). Neuroimaging data indicate that risk‐related hemodynamic activity in the anterior insula during anticipation of uncertain outcomes predicts HRBs among late adolescents exhibiting greater dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) activity during a cognitive interference task but not among late adolescents requiring less dACC activity. These results present neural evidence for a significant moderating effect of cognitive control on the link between risk sensitivity and HRBs among late adolescents.
Adaptation and Validation of the Life Events and Difficulties Schedule for Use With High School Dropouts
Authors: Dupéré Véronique , Dion Eric , Harkness Kate , McCabe Julie , Thouin Éliane , Parent Sophie
Published: November 2016

The Life Events and Difficulties Schedule (LEDS) is considered the standard for measuring psychosocial stressor exposure, but it has not been used with academically at‐risk adolescents, including high school dropouts. The goal of this study was to (1) adapt the LEDS for use with this population, and (2) examine the reliability (interrater) and validity (concurrent and predictive) of this adaptation among a sample of vulnerable adolescents (N = 545). Good reliability coefficients (.79–.90) were obtained, and stressor exposure was associated with concurrent criteria indexing mental health outcomes (depression) and major risk factors for dropout (administratively recorded and self‐reported). Also, LEDS scores predicted dropout beyond these risk factors. The adapted LEDS appears useful for describing academically struggling adolescents’ stressor exposure.
Milk protein responses to balanced amino acid and removal ofLeucine andArginine supplied from jugular‐infused amino acid mixture in lactating dairy cows
Authors: Tian W. , Wang H. R. , Wu T. Y. , Ding L. Y. , Zhao R. , Khas E. , Wang C. F. , Zhang F. Q. , Mi F. Y. , Wang L. , Ning L. T.
Published: November 2016

This study was undertaken to evaluate the milk protein response when cows were supplied a balancedAAprofile and to determine whether a deficiency of Leucine (Leu) or Arginine (Arg) had a negative effect on milk protein. Eight mid‐lactation Holstein cows were randomly assigned to 5‐day continuous jugular infusions of saline (CTL),EAAmixture prepared on the profile of casein and supplied (in % of lysine (Lys)) 100% of Lys, 33.3% of methionine (Met), 110.2% of Leu, 43.6% of Arg, 50.8% of threonine (Thr), 81.6% of valine (Val), 69.7% of isoleucine (Ile), 61.4% of phenylalanine (Phe) and 34.2% of histidine (His) (Casein, 160 g/d),EAAmixture excluding Leu (−Leu, 163 g/d) orEAAmixture excluding Arg (−Arg, 158 g/d) in a duplicated 4 × 4 Latin square design with four infusion periods separated by 7‐day interval period. The basal diet supplied 1.6 Mcal NELand 94.4 gMPper 1 kgDMto meet requirements for lactation. TheCaseintreatment provided a balanced supply (in % ofMP) of 10.3% Leu and 5.3% Arg, whereas in the two subsequent −Leu and −Arg treatments, the concentration of Leu and Arg was reduced to 8.4 and 4.6% respectively. Dry matter intake (15.4 kg/day) was not affected by treatments. TheCaseintreatment increased milk yield (14.9%, p < 0.001), milk protein yield (120 g, p < 0.001) and milk protein efficiency (0.03, p = 0.099) thanCTLtreatment. However, the −Leu treatment decreased the responses of above‐measured parameters by 6.25%, 70 g, 0.05 (p < 0.06) (compared withCasein). These effects of Leu were related to decreased Leu concentration and improved concentration of Ile and Val in plasma. The −Arg treatment decreased the plasma Arg concentration than theCaseintreatment, whereby resulted in the decrease of milk yield (5.7%, p = 0.073), milk protein yield (60 g, p = 0.011) and milk protein efficiency (0.04, p = 0.037). In conclusion, supply of EAA profile of casein can increase the lactation production in dairy cows, and 8.6% of Leu in MP partly limits the milk protein response when the requirements of Lys, Met and His were met. The level of Arg at 4.6%MPis not deemed to an ideal profile, as evidenced by decreased milk protein efficiency.
Commercially Available Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay and Polymerase Chain Reaction Tests for Detection of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Infection
Authors: Nichols J. , Weng H.Y. , Litster A. , Leutenegger C. , Guptill L.
Published: November 2016

Background

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection is an important cause of disease of cats worldwide. Initial screening is commonly performed by commercially available point‐of‐care (POC) ELISA tests. Confirmatory testing for positive POC test results is recommended. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests for FIV are commonly used additional testing methods; however, reported measures of diagnostic accuracy vary widely between PCR tests, making interpretation of results difficult.

Hypothesis/Objective

There is very good agreement between results of a commercially available PCR test and a POC ELISA test for FIV for specimens collected from owned and shelter‐housed cats.

Animals

Blood samples from 168 cats from 2 adoption guarantee shelters, an FIV Sanctuary, and 64 private homes were used.

Methods

This was a prospective study. Whole blood samples were collected in K2‐EDTA, divided, and submitted for PCR and ELISA testing. Follow‐up whole blood samples were collected in lithium heparin from cats with discordant results and submitted for virus isolation (VI).

Results

There was very good agreement between ELISA and PCR (kappa 0.87; P < .001; 95% CI 0.79, 0.95). Of 168 cats, eleven had discordant ELISA/PCR results: 7 ELISA+/PCR‐ and 4 ELISA‐/PCR+. Using VI as a reference standard, there were 4 false‐positive PCR results, 5 false‐positive ELISA results, and 1 false‐negative PCR result (1 cat lost to follow‐up).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

While there was good agreement between the POC ELISA and PCR tests, the discordant results highlight the importance of cautious interpretation of test results and the necessity of confirmatory testing.
When Are Local Incumbents Held Accountable for Government Performance? Evidence from US School Districts
Authors: Payson Julia A.
Published: November 2016

Do voters hold local officials accountable for government performance? Using over a decade of panel data on school district elections and academic achievement in California, I causally identify the effect of test score changes on school board incumbent re‐election rates and show that incumbents are more likely to win re‐election when test scores improve in their districts—but only in presidential election years. This effect disappears in midterm and off‐years, indicating that election timing might facilitate local government accountability.
Dietary intakes in children born small for gestational age and appropriate for gestational age: A longitudinal study
Authors: Wall Clare R. , Murphy Rinki , Waldie Karen E. , Mitchell Edwin A. , Wati Pushpa , Thompson John M.D. ,   On behalf of the ABC Study Group
Published: November 2016

Children born small for gestational age (SGA) have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and associated risk factors in later life; however, little is known about their dietary intakes. The objective of this study was to assess dietary intakes in SGA and appropriate for gestational age (AGA) at 3.5, 7, and 11 years. The Auckland Birthweight Collaborative Study is a longitudinal case–control study of children born at term (n = 871). Children were assessed at 3.5 (n = 550), 7 (n = 591), and 11 (n = 620) years of age. Diet was assessed using a 24‐hr record‐assisted recall. Reported dietary intakes were analyzed and compared with the Australian and New Zealand Nutrient Reference Values. Compared with AGA, median energy intakes were significantly lower in SGA at 3.5 years (4.2 MJ [IQR, 3.0 to 5.8] vs. 5.4 MJ [IQR, 3.9 to 6.5]; p < .0001) but not at 7 and 11 years. Inadequate dietary intakes of micronutrients were more prevalent among SGA at 3.5 years and 11 years of age. A large proportion of SGA and AGA children consumed more than the recommended amounts of saturated fats, sugars, and sodium. There was no association of dietary intake and socio‐demographic factors. This study reveals that dietary intake in 3.5‐year‐old children born SGA is lower in energy and a variety of micronutrients compared with dietary intake in AGA. These intakes may however be appropriate given their BMI z‐scores. High intakes of sodium, saturated fat, and sugars are a concern for all children in this cohort.
Pacifier use and interruption of exclusive breastfeeding: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Buccini Gabriela dos Santos , Pérez‐Escamilla Rafael , Paulino Larissa Munari , Araújo Clarice Lopes , Venancio Sonia Isoyama
Published: November 2016

Identifying modifiable risk factor for exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) interruption is key for improving child health globally. There is no consensus about the effect of pacifier use on EBF interruption. Thus, the aim of this systematic review was to investigate the association between pacifier use and EBF interruption during the first six month. A search of CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, LILACS and Medline; from inception through 30 December 2014 without restriction of language yielded 1,866 publications (PROSPERO protocol CRD42014014527). Predetermined inclusion/exclusion criteria peer reviewed yielded 46 studies: two clinical trials, 20 longitudinal, and 24 cross‐sectional studies. Meta‐analysis was performed and meta‐regression explored heterogeneity across studies. The pooled effect of the association between pacifier use and EBF interruption was 2.48 OR (95% CI = 2.16–2.85). Heterogeneity was explained by the study design (40.2%), followed by differences in the measurement and categorization of pacifier use, the methodological quality of the studies and the socio‐economic context. Two RCT's with very limited external validity found a null association, but 44 observational studies, including 20 prospective cohort studies, did find a consistent association between pacifier use and risk of EBF interruption (OR = 2.28; 95% CI = 1.78–2.93). Our findings support the current WHO recommendation on pacifier use as it focuses on the risk of poor breastfeeding outcomes as a result of pacifier use. Future studies that take into account the risks and benefits of pacifier use are needed to clarify this recommendation.
Clockgene polymorphism, migratory behaviour and geographic distribution: a comparative study of trans‐Saharan migratory birds
Authors: Bazzi Gaia , Cecere Jacopo G. , Caprioli Manuela , Gatti Emanuele , Gianfranceschi Luca , Podofillini Stefano , Possenti Cristina D. , Ambrosini Roberto , Saino Nicola , Spina Fernando , Rubolini Diego
Published: November 2016

Migratory behaviour is controlled by endogenous circannual rhythms that are synchronized by external cues, such as photoperiod. Investigations on the genetic basis of circannual rhythmicity in vertebrates have highlighted that variation at candidate ‘circadian clock’ genes may play a major role in regulating photoperiodic responses and timing of life cycle events, such as reproduction and migration. In this comparative study of 23 trans‐Saharan migratory bird species, we investigated the relationships between species‐level genetic variation at two candidate genes,ClockandAdcyap1, and species’ traits related to migration and geographic distribution, including timing of spring migration across the Mediterranean Sea, migration distance and breeding latitude. Consistently with previous evidence showing latitudinal clines in ‘circadian clock’ genotype frequencies,Clockallele size increased with breeding latitude across species. However, early‐ and late‐migrating species had similarClockallele size. Species migrating over longer distances, showing delayed spring migration and smaller phenotypic variance in spring migration timing, had significantly reducedClock(but notAdcyap1) gene diversity. Phylogenetic confirmatory path analysis suggested that migration date and distance were the most important variables directly affectingClockgene diversity. Hence, our study supports the hypothesis thatClockallele size increases poleward as a consequence of adaptation to the photoperiodic regime of the breeding areas. Moreover, we show that long‐distance migration is associated with lowerClockdiversity, coherently with strong stabilizing selection acting on timing of life cycle events in long‐distance migratory species, likely resulting from the time constraints imposed by late spring migration.
Peritoneal catheter fixation combined with straight upward tunnel and low implant position to prevent catheter malfunction
Authors: Zhang Qingyan , Jiang Chunming , Zhu Wei , Sun Cheng , Xia Yangyang , Tang Tianfeng , Wan Cheng , Shao Qiuyuan , Liu Jing , Jin Bo , Zhang Miao
Published: November 2016

Aim

Catheter malfunction is the main reason for early peritoneal dialysis (PD) technique failure. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a new surgery technique with catheter fixation to the lower abdominal wall combined with straight upward tunnel and low implant position in reducing catheter malfunction.

Methods

Patients with end stage renal disease who received PD in our centre from January 2013 to December 2015 were involved in this study. They were randomly divided into three groups according to surgical technique: traditional open surgery group, modified open surgery group and modified open surgery with catheter fixation group. All patients were followed up for six months after surgery. Catheter‐ related complications were analyzed.

Results

A total of 152 patients were involved. Among them, 49 received traditional open surgery (TOS group), 49 received modified open surgery (MOS group), and 54 received modified open surgery with catheter fixation (MOS‐F group). During follow‐up, no patients (0%) in MOS‐F group developed catheter malfunction which was significantly lower than that of the TOS group (0 vs 16.33%, P = 0.002). Although not statistically significant, the incidence of catheter malfunction was lower in MOS‐F group than that in MOS group (0 vs 4.08%, P = 0.134). No significant difference was observed in the episodes of infection, bleeding, leakage, inflow or outflow pain, hernia and delayed wound healing among the three groups (all P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Catheter fixation combined with straight upward tunnel and low implant position can effectively prevent catheter malfunction in PD catheter placement.
Isolation of bacterial DNA followed by sequencing and differing cytokine response in peritoneal dialysis effluent help in identifying bacteria in culture negative peritonitis
Authors: Prasad Narayan , Singh Kamini , Gupta Amit , Prasad Kashi Nath
Published: November 2016

Aim

The treatment of peritoneal dialysis related culture negative peritonitis is empirical which increases the cost of therapy and moreover antibiotic resistance. We aimed the study to isolate bacterial DNA from PD effluent and indentify bacteria causing peritonitis in culture negative situations. We have also studied the cytokine response with different bacteria causing peritonitis.

Methods

We have isolated bacterial DNA from PD effluent of culture negative and culture positive peritonitis patients. Bacterial DNA was subjected to polymerase chain reaction using universal bacteria specific primers and subsequently to Gram type specific primers for the differentiation of the etiologic agents into Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative. The amplified products were sequenced and subjected to blast search to identify agent at genus/ species level.

Results

Of the 30 molecular method positive samples, 16 (53.33%) samples were positive for Gram‐negative bacteria and 4 (13.33%) for Gram‐positive, while the remaining10 (33.33%) were positive for both Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. We have found organisms that usually do not grow on normal culture methods. TNF‐α was significantly associated with Gram‐positive peritonitis and regulatory cytokine IL‐10 with Gram‐negative peritonitis.

Conclusions

The molecular techniques are helpful in detecting and identifying organisms from culture negative PD effluent.
Gut microbial metabolism defines host metabolism: an emerging perspective in obesity and allergic inflammation
Authors: Kumari M. , Kozyrskyj A. L.
Published: November 2016

The presence of >100 trillion microorganisms (collectively called gut microbiota) in our large intestine is essential for the maintenance of health. The gut microbiota starts to develop before birth and matures within first three years of life. The Western diet and lifestyle have been implicated in causing an imbalance of gut microbial communities and their metabolites that consequence in disease states, such as obesity and asthma. With more than 13% of the world population currently living with obesity and one out of 10 children diagnosed with asthma, we explore here the recent developments in the biosynthesis and mode of action of the key metabolites in relation to these two chronic inflammatory conditions.
Wahrheit und Widerstand
Authors: Hunziker Roman
Published: November 2016

Dieser Aufsatz befasst sich mit der Rolle und der Funktion der an die schwedische Dichterin und Schriftstellerin angelehnten Boye‐Figur im dritten Band von Peter Weiss’Ästhetik des Widerstands. Oberflächlich betrachtet handelt es sich bei ihr, wie bei den meisten Frauenfiguren im Roman, um eine Verkörperung einer Gegengeschichte zum männlich codierten Marxismus. Mit ihrer Einsicht – die sie in ihrem RomanKallocainformuliert –, dass nicht nur der Westen, sondern auch die Sowjetunion in totalitärer Barbarei versinkt, kommt ihr die Funktion eines Korrektivs des bislang unhinterfragten Einheitsgedankens des antifaschistischen Widerstands zu. Im Zentrum des Aufsatzes steht aber Boyes Funktion nicht bloß als politisches, sondern vor allem poetologisches Korrektiv. Herausgearbeitet werden soll dies anhand einer Lektüre des RomansKallocain. Ziel wird es sein zu zeigen, dass das dem Roman seinen Namen gebende Wahrheitsserum in strukturell analoger Weise funktioniert wie die von den Protagonisten in derÄsthetik des Widerstandsgeforderte, an Lenins Kulturresolution angelehnte proletarische Kunst: Mit seiner Diskursivierung von verborgenen, stummen Regungen des menschlichen Innenlebens wird das Wahrheitsserum zur Metapher für eine Kunst, deren widerständiges Potential gerade in ihrem Vermögen zur Aktualisierung und Weiterverarbeitung liegt.
Maintaining Accurate Long‐Term Sensing Ability Despite Significant Size Reduction of Implantable Cardiac Monitors
Authors: LORTZ JULIA , VARNAVAS VARNAVAS , WEIßENBERGER WILKO , ERBEL RAIMUND , REINSCH NICO
Published: November 2016

Background

The Reveal LINQ™ implantable cardiac monitor (ICM; Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN, USA) is obviously smaller than its precursor (the Reveal XT™), but little is known about its long‐term safety. Here, we investigated the long‐term R‐wave sensing reliability of the Reveal LINQ™ ICM.

Methods

We analyzed the sensing quality of the Reveal LINQ™ ICM over time between March 2014 and January 2015.

Results

A total of 30 patients underwent Reveal LINQ™ implantation. The main reason for implantation was unexplained syncope (60%). We evaluated a total of 305.8 patient‐months (median, 10.7 months) of R‐wave sensing quality. A comparison of baseline and follow‐up R‐wave sensing values revealed no difference (0.401 mV ± 0.244 mV vs 0.447 mV ± 0.323 mV; P = 0.225).

Conclusions

The consistent detection of events is an important safety feature of an ICM and linked to secure R‐wave sensing. Despite the noticeable size reduction, the Reveal LINQ™ ICM retains reliable sensing quality over time.
How Doxastic Justification Helps Us Solve the Puzzle of Misleading Higher‐Order Evidence
Authors: Silva Paul
Published: November 2016

Certain plausible evidential requirements and coherence requirements on rationality seem to yield dilemmas of rationality (in a specific, objectionable sense) when put together with the possibility of misleading higher‐order evidence. Epistemologists have often taken such dilemmas to be evidence that we're working with some false principle. In what follows I show how one can jointly endorse an evidential requirement, a coherence requirement, and the possibility of misleading higher‐order evidence without running afoul of dilemmas of rationality. The trick lies in observing the difference between attitudes it isrational to hold(= propositional justification) andrationally holdingthose attitudes (= doxastic justification).
Tomato facultative parthenocarpy results from SlAGAMOUS‐LIKE6loss of function
Authors: Klap Chen , Yeshayahou Ester , Bolger Anthony M. , Arazi Tzahi , Gupta Suresh K. , Shabtai Sara , Usadel Björn , Salts Yehiam , Barg Rivka
Published: November 2016

The extreme sensitivity of the microsporogenesis process to moderately high or low temperatures is a major hindrance for tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) sexual reproduction and hence year‐round cropping. Consequently, breeding for parthenocarpy, namely, fertilization‐independent fruit set, is considered a valuable goal especially for maintaining sustainable agriculture in the face of global warming. A mutant capable of setting high‐quality seedless (parthenocarpic) fruit was found following a screen ofEMS‐mutagenized tomato population for yielding under heat stress. Next‐generation sequencing followed by marker‐assisted mapping andCRISPR/Cas9 gene knockout confirmed that a mutation in SlAGAMOUS‐LIKE6(SlAGL6) was responsible for the parthenocarpic phenotype. The mutant is capable of fruit production under heat stress conditions that severely hamper fertilization‐dependent fruit set. Different from other tomato recessive monogenic mutants for parthenocarpy, Slagl6mutations impose no homeotic changes, the seedless fruits are of normal weight and shape, pollen viability is unaffected, and sexual reproduction capacity is maintained, thus making Slagl6an attractive gene for facultative parthenocarpy. The characteristics of the analysed mutant combined with the gene's mode of expression imply SlAGL6as a key regulator of the transition between the state of ‘ovary arrest’ imposed towards anthesis and the fertilization‐triggered fruit set.
What happens to children who move off the autism spectrum? Clinical follow‐up study
Authors: Mukaddes Nahit Motavalli , Mutluer Tuba , Ayik Basak , Umut Ayla
Published: November 2016

Background

There is controversial information on outcome of school age individuals who lose the diagnosis of autism and achieve “optimal outcome” (OO). The present study assessed the autism symptoms and other psychiatric disorders in a group of children with a past history of autism.

Methods

The subjects consisted of 26 individuals who had lost the diagnosis of autism 2–8 years previously. Clinical assessment was done with both parents and children. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th edn; DSM‐V) criteria were used for diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In addition, Childhood Autism Rating Scale and Social Communication Questionnaire (current version) were used. Psychiatric disorders were assessed using the Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School‐Age Children Present and Lifetime Version (K‐SADS‐PL).

Results

None of the participants met the criteria for ASD. Ninety‐two percent had a lifetime diagnosis and 81% had a present psychiatric disorder based on the K‐SADS. Attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder, specific phobia and obsessive–compulsive disorder were the most common disorders.

Conclusions

Improved status with regard to autism symptomatology is maintained over time, but these individuals are vulnerable to developing other psychiatric disorders. It is crucial to maintain psychiatric follow up of children who move off the autism spectrum.
Daily Variation of UV‐induced Erythema and the Action of Solar Filters
Authors: Flo Ana , Calpena Ana C. , Díez‐Noguera Antoni , del Pozo Alfons , Cambras Trinitat
Published: November 2016

UV rays may cause several degrees of skin damage, which makes sunscreen research necessary. In addition, skin sensitivity shows daily variations, which can interfere in the detection of the efficacy of the filters. Here, we studied the UV‐induced erythema in hairless rats at two times of the day (light and darkness) using a colorimeter method. The effect of an emulsion with solar filters with or without melatonin was also assayed. Results indicate that the value of a* (from CIELAB color space values L* a* b) was the most useful variable to evaluate the erythema. However, at the UV intensity used, erythema was only detected when irradiation was carried out during the activity phase of the animal, enabling the detection of the protective action of the sunscreen at this time. Thus, daily variations in skin sensitivity have been demonstrated and should be taken into account in dermatological research.
Tumor endothelial cells express high pentraxin 3 levels
Authors: Hida Kyoko , Maishi Nako , Kawamoto Taisuke , Akiyama Kosuke , Ohga Noritaka , Hida Yasuhiro , Yamada Kenji , Hojo Takayuki , Kikuchi Hiroshi , Sato Masumi , Torii Chisaho , Shinohara Nobuo , Shindoh Masanobu
Published: November 2016

It has been described that tumor progression has many similarities to inflammation and wound healing in terms of the signaling processes involved. Among biological responses, angiogenesis, which is necessary for tumor progression and metastasis, is a common hallmark; therefore, tumor blood vessels have been considered as important therapeutic targets in anticancer therapy. We focused on pentraxin 3 (PTX3), which is a marker of cancer‐related inflammation, but we found no reports on its expression and function in tumor blood vessels. Here we showed that PTX3 is expressed in mouse and human tumor blood vessels based on immunohistochemical analysis. We found that PTX3 is upregulated in primary mouse and human tumor endothelial cells compared to normal endothelial cells. We also showed that PTX3 plays an important role in the proliferation of the tumor endothelial cells. These results suggest that PTX3 is an important target for antiangiogenic therapy.
Survival of Fusarium circinatum in soil and Pinus radiata needle and branch segments
Authors: Serrano Y. , Iturritxa E. , Elvira‐Recuenco M. , Raposo R.
Published: November 2016

Survival of Fusarium circinatum in colonized pine needles and wood pieces was measured. Naturally colonized branches and their needles were cut into small pieces and placed in mesh bags on the soil surface at two locations in northern Spain. Pieces were recovered periodically, cultured on a selective medium, and microscopically examined to identify the species. After 507 days, F. circinatum was recovered from 0 to 27% of the wood pieces and from none of the needles. After 858 days, F. circinatum was not recovered from any wood pieces but was found to be present on 1 out of 220 needle pieces analysed. Artificially infested pieces of wood and needles were placed on 5‐mm sieved soil either in plastic boxes at controlled temperature or in mesh bags under field conditions. No survival was recorded after 794 days under field conditions and the decline over time occurred more rapidly in inoculated pieces under field conditions. Soil was also infested with conidia of F. circinatum and survival was estimated. No conidia were recovered after 224 days at 30 °C, although at 20 and 5 °C the respective populations were 20 and 3700 cfu/g soil. Fusarium circinatum was not recovered from 2‐mm‐sieved soil collected under pitch canker‐infected pines. Results indicate that branch segments and needles naturally colonized by F. circinatum will not be a potential source of inoculum, and the fungus in soil is not likely to contribute to reinfection of new plantations after 2 years.
Special trends in CBF and DREB2 groups in Eucalyptus gunnii vs Eucalyptus grandis suggest that CBF are master players in the trade‐off between growth and stress resistance
Authors: Nguyen Hong C. , Cao Phi B. , San Clemente Hélène , Ployet Raphaël , Mounet Fabien , Ladouce Nathalie , Harvengt Luc , Marque Christiane , Teulieres Chantal
Published: November 2016

Annotation of the Eucalyptus grandis genome showed a large amplification of the dehydration‐responsive element binding 1/C‐repeat binding factor (DREB1/CBF) group without recent DREB2 gene duplication compared with other plant species. The present annotation of the CBF and DREB2 genes from a draft of the Eucalyptus gunnii genome sequence reveals at least one additional CBF copy in the E. gunnii genome compared with E. grandis, suggesting that this group is still evolving, unlike the DREB2 group. This study aims to investigate the redundancy/neo‐ or sub‐functionalization of the duplicates and the relative involvement of the two groups in abiotic stress responses in both E. grandis and E. gunnii (lower growth but higher cold resistance). A comprehensive transcriptional analysis using high‐throughput quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) was performed on leaves, stems and roots from the two Eucalyptus species after cold, heat or drought treatment. A large CBF cluster accounted for most of the cold response in all the organs, whereas heat and drought responses mainly involved a small CBF cluster and the DREB2 genes. In addition, CBF putative target genes, known to be involved in plant tolerance and development, were found to be cold‐regulated. The higher transcript amounts of both the CBF and target genes in the cold tolerant E. gunnii contrasted with the higher CBF induction rates in the fast growing E. grandis. Altogether, the present results, in agreement with previous data about Eucalyptus transgenic lines over‐expressing CBF, suggest that these factors, which promote both stress protection and growth limitation, participate in the trade‐off between growth and resistance in this woody species.
Public Opinion and Policy Representation: On Conceptualization, Measurement, and Interpretation
Authors: Wlezien Christopher
Published: November 2016

The congruence between public preferences and public policy is of special importance in representative democracies. We want to know whether the public is getting the policies it wants and, if not, whose preferences are being represented. To directly evaluate congruence, scholars need to measure what the public wants in a particular policy area and then correctly match it to policy in that area. This is difficult to do. Not surprisingly, while much scholarship examines the congruence of positions, little research examines actual policy congruence. Even the work that there is on the subject offers limited information. In this paper, I assess what we can infer about congruence from the different scholarly traditions in the study of representation. I also consider prospects for research on the match between public preference inputs and public policy outputs, particularly when we cannot assess it directly.
Relational Leadership, Storytelling, and Narratives: Practices of Local Government Chief Executives
Authors: Orr Kevin , Bennett Mike
Published: November 2016

This article examines the storytelling and narrative practices of an elite group of public administrators in the United Kingdom: local government chief executives. The authors do so through the lens of relationality, exploring the collective dimensions of leadership. The focus on leadership and stories embraces the narrative turn in public administration scholarship. It responds to calls for research examining the distinctive settings of everyday leadership action. The contribution to theory is a qualitative understanding of the relational ways in which stories and narratives are used in the practices of public administration leaders. The article analyzes four ways in which such leadership is accomplished: inviting an emotional connection and commitment to public service, making sense of organizational realities, provoking reflections on practices and assumptions, and managing relations with politicians. The authors offer an appreciation of how relational leadership influence can be generated by expressive narratives and storytelling rather than stemming from bureaucratic authority.
Age and anti‐Müllerian hormone levels predict the success of in vitro maturation of cat oocytes
Authors: Snoeck F , Sarrazin S , Wydooghe E , Van Soom A
Published: November 2016

Contents

Up to date, in vitro maturation (IVM) rates of oocytes are highly variable between individual cats. This study was carried out to investigate the predictive value of age and anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) concentration in relation to capacity for IVM of cat oocytes. Ovaries were collected from 33 cats, which were divided into three age groups: (i) 0–3 months (pre‐pubertal); (ii) 3–12 months (peripubertal); and (iii) older than 12 months (pubertal). The cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs) were matured and subsequently stained to check nuclear maturation status, and blood was taken for AMH analysis. Increasing age was significantly associated with decreasing AMH levels, and mean AMH levels differed significantly between all age categories: group 1: mean AMH 18.71 μg/L; group 2: mean AMH 9.27 μg/L; and group 3: mean AMH 4.13 μg/L. Moreover, the probability of maturation was more likely in groups 2 and 3 compared to group 1. Between categories 2 and 3, no significant difference in maturation probability was found (p = .31). Finally, the probability of oocyte maturation decreased significantly with increasing AMH levels. In age group 2, oocytes with a higher AMH level were less likely to mature. In age groups 1 and 3, no significant association between the AMH level and the proportion of maturated COC was found. We can conclude that if a higher probability of nuclear maturation is required, it is preferable to use cats with lower AMH levels and older than 3 months of age to improve cat IVM.