bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison between published clinical success of direct resin composite restorations in vital posterior teeth in 1995–2005 and 2006–2016 periods
Authors: Alvanforoush N , Palamara J , Wong RH , Burrow MF
Published: November 2016

Composites are increasing in popularity as restorative materials. This growing role indicates the necessity of studies on their clinical outcome. In this study, clinical studies published on the performance of posterior composite restorations were included except those of less than a 24‐month assessment period. Results of non‐vital, anterior or primary teeth and cervical single‐surface restorations were also excluded. Records about composite type, number of final recall restorations, failure/survival rate, assessment period and failure reasons were analysed for each decade. Overall survival/failure rates for studies in 1995–2005 were 89.41%/10.59% and for 2006–2016 were 86.87%/13.13%, respectively. In 1995–2005, the reasons for failure were secondary caries (29.47%) and composite fracture (28.84%) with low tooth fracture (3.45%) compared with reasons of failure in 2006–2016, which were secondary caries (25.68%), composite fracture (39.07%), and tooth fracture (23.76%). An increase in incidence of composite fracture, tooth fracture and need for endodontic treatment as failure reasons was noted in the latter decade in addition to a decrease in secondary caries, postoperative sensitivity, unsatisfactory marginal adaptation and wear. The overall rates of failure showed little difference, but the causes showed a notable change. This is believed to be a reflection of increased use of composites for larger restorations and possibly changes of material characteristics.
Regulation of crucial lncRNAs in differentiation of chicken embryonic stem cells to spermatogonia stem cells
Authors: Li D. , Ji Y. , Wang F. , Wang Y. , Wang M. , Zhang C. , Zhang W. , Lu Z. , Sun C. , Ahmed M. F. , He N. , Jin K. , Cheng S. , Wang Y. , He Y. , Song J. , Zhang Y. , Li B.
Published: November 2016

Regulation of crucial lncRNAs involved in differentiation of chicken embryonic stem cells (ESCs) to spermatogonia stem cells (SSCs) was explored by sequencing the transcriptome of ESCs, primordial germ cells (PGCs) and SSCs with RNA‐Seq; analytical bioinformatic methods were used to excavate candidate lncRNAs. We detected expression of candidate lncRNAs in ESCs, PGCs and SSCs and forecasted related target genes. Utilizing wego, david and string, function and protein–protein interactions of target genes were analyzed. Finally, based on string analysis, interaction diagrams and relevant signaling pathways were established. Our results indicate a total of 9657 lncRNAs in ESCs, PGCs and SSCs, with 3549 defined as significantly different. We screened 20 candidate lncRNAs, each demonstrating a greater than eight‐fold difference in |logFC| value between groups (ESCs vs. PGCs, ESCs vs. SSCs and PGCs vs. SSCs) or specifically expressed in an individual cell type. qRT‐PCR results indicated that expression tendencies of candidate lncRNAs were consistent with RNA‐Seq. Fifteen cis and four trans target genes were forecasted. Based on wego and string analyses, we found lnc‐SSC1, lnc‐SSC5, lnc‐SSC2 and lnc‐ESC2 negatively regulated target genes SUFU, EPHA3, KLF3, ARL3 and TRIM8, whereas SHH, NOTCH, TGF‐β, cAMP/cGMP and JAK/STAT signaling pathways were promoted, causing differentiation of ESCs into SSCs. Our findings represent a preliminary unveiling of lncRNA‐associated regulatory mechanisms during differentiation of chicken ESCs into SSCs, filling a research void in male germ cell differentiation related to lncRNA. Our results also provide basic information for improving in vitro induction systems for differentiation of chicken ESCs into SSCs.
Atypical presentation of livedo racemosa in a factor V Leiden heterozygous positive patient with Pseudomonas aeruginosa urosepsis
Authors: Johnston Jesse , Noakes Rowland , Davidson Kurt
Published: November 2016

Impairment of the protein C pathway, detectable by reduced plasma levels of activated protein C (APC), are risk factors for venous thrombosis. Activated protein C maintains clotting homeostasis by regulation of pro‐coagulant factors Va and VIIIa. Both infection and the factor V Leiden mutation reduce the formation of APC from protein C in the blood. With low levels of APC, excess factors Va and VIIIa exist, increasing the risk of thrombus formation. Livedo racemosa is characterised by a striking, violaceous branch‐like pattering of the skin. It is similar to livedo reticularis, but with a different morphology and histopathology. In this case report we present the first case of livedo racemosa, in an 89‐year‐old factor V Leiden‐positive patient with a Pseudomonas aeruginosa urinary tract infection. The cutaneous biopsies demonstrated vasculopathy with intraluminal thrombi in subcutaneous vessels with no evidence of inflammatory vasculitis.
Investigating antenatal corticosteroid clinical guideline practice at an organisational level
Authors: McGoldrick Emma L. , Brown Julie A. , Groom Katie M. , Crowther Caroline A.
Published: November 2016

Background

High‐quality, evidence‐based guidelines can improve the quality of health care and facilitate standardisation of practice within and across healthcare organisations. Limited information is known regarding existing antenatal corticosteroid (ACS) guideline practices within organisations across Australia and New Zealand.

Aims

To assess existing ACS clinical practice guidelines (CPG). To describe current organisational practice related to the production, implementation and renewal of CPG.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey of hospital practice using an online questionnaire.

Methods

Clinical Managers at 27 secondary and 25 tertiary maternity hospitals, that contribute data to the Australia and New Zealand Neonatal Network, were approached from May to September 2015 and completed the questionnaire on behalf of their organisation.

Results

Of the hospitals surveyed, 93% reported having a CPG or protocol. Of these, 89% of CPG included recommendations on a single course of ACS, 37% on the use of repeat course/s and 41% on use prior to elective caesarean section at term. Variation in the recommendations provided existed between countries and depending on the level of neonatal care provided. A guideline development group existed in 85% of hospitals. The preferred tools to facilitate implementation of a CPG include: email with a link to the hospital intranet, education sessions and an opinion leader. Only 28% of respondents reported auditing the use of ACS administration.

Conclusions

There is significant variation in the recommendations provided by current ACS CPGs. Utilisation of a single ACS CPG reflective of the current available evidence base may limit this variation.
Forkhead box protein‐3 (Foxp3)‐producing dendritic cells suppress allergic response
Authors: Liu X.‐Y. , Xu L.‐Z. , Luo X.‐Q. , Geng X.‐R. , Liu Z.‐Q. , Yang L.‐T. , Yang G. , Chen S. , Liu Z.‐G. , Li H.‐B. , Yang L.‐T. , Luan T.‐G. , Yang P.‐C.
Published: November 2016

Background

The generation of the tolerogenic dendritic cells (DC) is not fully understood yet. Forkhead box protein‐3 (Foxp3) is an important molecule in the immune tolerance. This study tests a hypothesis that DCs express Foxp3, which can be upregulated by Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB).

Methods

The expression of Foxp3 by DCs was evaluated by real‐time RT‐PCR, Western blotting, flow cytometry, and chromatin immunoprecipitation assay.

Results

We observed that mice treated with SEB at 0.25–0.5 μg/mouse showed high frequencies of transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β‐producing CD4+ T cells and TGF‐β‐producing DCs in the intestine, while the IL‐4+ CD4+ T cells and TIM4+ DCs were dominated in the intestine in mice treated with SEB at 1–10 μg/mouse. Treating DCs with SEB in the culture induced high levels of Foxp3 at the TGF‐β promoter locus. The function of Foxp3 was blocked by STAT6 (signal transducer and activator transcription‐6); the latter was induced by exposing DCs to SEB in the culture at doses of 100–400 ng/ml. Treating allergic mice with specific immunotherapy (SIT) together with SEB significantly promoted the therapeutic effects on the allergic responses than treating with SIT alone.

Conclusion

Dendritic cells have the capacity to express Foxp3, which can be upregulated by exposure to SEB.
The temporal and age‐dependent patterns of hysterectomy‐corrected cervical cancer incidence rates in Denmark: a population‐based cohort study
Authors: Hammer Anne , Kahlert Johnny , Rositch Anne , Pedersen Lars , Gravitt Patti , Blaakaer Jan , Soegaard Mette
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Hysterectomy is a common gynecological procedure; however, the incidence of total and subtotal hysterectomy varies across countries, by age, and over time. As only women with an intact cervix are at risk of cervical cancer, failing to remove hysterectomized women from the denominator may underestimate the cervical cancer incidence. We aimed to describe the temporal and age‐dependent patterns of cervical cancer incidence in Denmark before and after correction for hysterectomy.

Material and methods

Using data from national registries we calculated uncorrected and hysterectomy‐corrected cervical cancer incidence rates among women ≥20 years during 2000–11. Hysterectomy‐corrected rates were calculated by subtracting post‐hysterectomy person‐years from the denominator.

Results

The overall uncorrected cervical cancer incidence rate was 17.8/100 000 person‐years (95% CI 17.3–18.3). After correction for hysterectomy, the rate increased by 8.4% to 19.3/100 000 person‐years (95% CI 18.8–19.9). The highest uncorrected incidence was seen in women aged 35–39 years, peaking at 24.4/100 000 person‐years, whereas the highest hysterectomy‐corrected cervical cancer incidence rate was observed in women aged 75–79 years (29.4/100 000 person‐years). Over time, women ≥60 years had the highest hysterectomy‐corrected cervical cancer incidence.

Conclusions

Correcting for hysterectomy incidence resulted in a higher cervical cancer incidence and a shift in the peak incidence from age 35–39 years to age 75–79 years. Over time, women ≥60 years were at the highest risk of cervical cancer. Given the high incidence in women >60–65 years, when women are eligible to exit screening, a revision of the screening guidelines may be warranted.
Of channels and pumps: different ways to boost the aldosterone?
Authors: Bandulik S.
Published: November 2016

The mineralocorticoid aldosterone is a major factor controlling the salt and water balance and thereby also the arterial blood pressure. Accordingly, primary aldosteronism (PA) characterized by an inappropriately high aldosterone secretion is the most common form of secondary hypertension. The physiological stimulation of aldosterone synthesis in adrenocortical glomerulosa cells by angiotensin II and an increased plasma K+ concentration depends on a membrane depolarization and an increase in the cytosolic Ca2+ activity. Recurrent gain‐of‐function mutations of ion channels and transporters have been identified in a majority of cases of aldosterone‐producing adenomas and in familial forms of PA. In this review, the physiological role of these genes in the regulation of aldosterone synthesis and the altered function of the mutant proteins as well are described. The specific changes of the membrane potential and the cellular ion homoeostasis in adrenal cells expressing the different mutants are compared, and their impact on autonomous aldosterone production and proliferation is discussed.
Normalized resistance interpretation, the NRI method
Authors: Kronvall Göran , Smith Peter
Published: November 2016

The normalized resistance interpretation (NRI) method was developed in response to a call for a method to calibrate disc diffusion test results making inter‐laboratory comparisons possible. The main use of NRI so far has been in individual laboratories, in medical and veterinary medicine and in the field of marine microbiology. The applications of NRI for disc diffusion tests are reviewed and, in addition, a detailed description of the calculation procedure is presented. NRI provides a fully objective method for ECOFF calculations of disc diffusion antimicrobial susceptibility test results.
Staphylococcus aureus isolated from tonsillectomized adult patients with recurrent tonsillitis
Authors: Katkowska Marta , Garbacz Katarzyna , Stromkowski Józef
Published: November 2016

The aim of this study was to analyze the prevalence and antibiotic resistance of Staphylococcus aureus strains from 118 tonsillectomized adults due to recurrent tonsillitis (RT). The study included strains isolated from the tonsillar surface prior to tonsillectomy, recovered from the tonsillar core at the time of surgery, and from the posterior throat 2–4 weeks after the procedure. Susceptibility of isolates to 19 antibiotics was tested in line with the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute recommendations. Irrespective of the stage, the most commonly isolated bacteria were gram‐positive cocci, and among them S. aureus. The tonsillar core was the most common site of S. aureus isolation (30.5%), followed by the tonsillar surface (10.8%) and the posterior pharynx (5.9%). This difference turned out to be statistically significant (p < 0.001). Beta‐hemolytic streptococci, most often Streptococcus pyogenes (5.1%), were isolated from 2.5% to 10.2% of patients. Staphylococcal isolates were susceptible to most tested antibiotics (except from penicillin and ampicillin) and rarely showed methicillin resistance (n = 1). Staphylococcus aureus seems to be the most common pathogen isolated from patients tonsillectomized due to RT. Staphylococcal isolates associated with RT are present mostly within the tonsillar core and susceptible to most antibiotics. They are typically isolated from patients between 21 and 30 years of age. Tonsillectomy results in less frequent isolation of S. aureus strains.
Plasma cytokines eotaxin, MIP‐1α, MCP‐4, and vascular endothelial growth factor in acute lower respiratory tract infection
Authors: Relster Mette Marie , Holm Anette , Pedersen Court
Published: November 2016

Major overlaps of clinical characteristics and the limitations of conventional diagnostic tests render the initial diagnosis and clinical management of pulmonary disorders difficult. In this pilot study, we analyzed the predictive value of eotaxin, macrophage inflammatory protein 1 alpha (MIP‐1α), monocyte chemoattractant protein 4 (MCP‐4), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in 40 patients hospitalized with acute lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI). The cytokines contribute to the pathogenesis of several inflammatory respiratory diseases, indicating a potential as markers for LRTI. Patients were stratified according to etiology and severity of LRTI, based on baseline C‐reactive protein and CURB‐65 scores. Using a multiplex immunoassay of plasma, levels of eotaxin and MCP‐4 were shown to increase from baseline until day 6 after admission to hospital. The four cytokines were unable to predict the etiology and severity. Eotaxin and MCP‐4 were significantly lower in patients with C‐reactive protein ≥100, and MIP‐1α was significantly higher in the patients with CURB‐65 > 3, but the predictive power was low. In conclusion, further evaluation, including more patients, is required to assess the full potential of eotaxin, MCP‐4, MIP‐1α, and VEGF as biomarkers for LRTI because of their low predictive power and a high interindividual variation of cytokine levels.
Molecular epidemiology of Staphylococcus epidermidis in neonatal intensive care units
Authors: Soeorg Hiie , Huik Kristi , Parm Ülle , Ilmoja Mari‐Liis , Metsvaht Tuuli , Lutsar Irja
Published: November 2016

Late‐onset sepsis (LOS) in preterm neonates is increasingly reported to be associated with gut‐colonizing Staphylococcus epidermidis. We aimed to describe the molecular epidemiology of S. epidermidis colonizing the gut of neonates hospitalized in two neonatal intensive care units. S. epidermidis from rectal swabs were typed by multilocus variable‐number tandem‐repeat analysis (MLVA), randomly chosen isolates of predominant MLVA types additionally by multilocus sequence typing. Antimicrobial susceptibility, the presence of icaA, IS256, arginine catabolic mobile element (ACME), agr type, and SCCmec type were determined. Of 276 neonates (38.4%), 106 were colonized with S. epidermidis, yielding a total of 139 isolates (62 in one unit and 77 in another unit). Of the 55 MLVA types identified, the five predominant detected in both units corresponded to sequence type (ST) 2, ST5, and ST59 or its single locus variant ST81 and formed three major MLVA clonal complexes accounting for 74.8% of all isolates. Overall, the prevalence of mecA, icaA, IS256, and ACME was 91.4%, 28.1%, 64%, and 77%, respectively. Of the mecA‐positive isolates (n = 127), 43.9% carried SCCmec type IV. Of eight episodes of LOS, four were caused by ST2 and two by ST5. Preventing gut colonization with nosocomial epidemic S. epidermidis in hospitalized neonates could contribute to the prevention of LOS.
ABCC3 Polymorphisms and mRNA Expression Influence the Concentration of a Carboxylic Acid Metabolite in Patients on Clopidogrel and Aspirin Therapy
Authors: Luchessi André Ducati , Concheiro Marta , Germano Juliana de Freitas , Silbiger Vivian Nogueira , Bortolin Raul Hernandes , Cruz Angelines , Quintela Oscar , Brion Maria , Carracedo Angel , Iñiguez Andres , Bravo Marisol , López‐Rivadulla Manuel , Hirata Rosario Dominguez Crespo , Sousa Amanda Guerra Moraes Rego , Hirata Mario Hiroyuki
Published: November 2016

Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and clopidogrel combined therapy has been reported to be beneficial in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Antiplatelet drug resistance, especially to clopidogrel, is a multifactorial phenomenon that affects a large number of ACS patients. The genetic contribution to this drug response is not fully elucidated. We investigated the relationship of ABC‐type efflux subfamily C member 3 (ABCC3) polymorphisms and mRNA expression with plasma concentrations of clopidogrel, salicylic acid (SA) and a carboxylic acid metabolite (CAM). Clopidogrel, CAM and SA plasma concentrations were measured simultaneously by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LCMS/MS) from 83 ACS patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. ABCC3 (rs757421, rs733392 and rs739923) and CYP2C19*2 (rs4244285) polymorphisms as well as mRNA expression were evaluated. A positive correlation was found between CAM concentrations and ABCC3 mRNA expression (r = 0.494, p < 0.0001). Patients carrying genotype AA (rs757421 variant) had higher CAM concentrations and ABCC3 mRNA expression as compared to those of GG + GA carriers (p = 0.017). A multiple linear regression analysis revealed that ABCC3 mRNA expression (p = 0.017), rs757421 AA genotype (p = 0.001), blood collection time (p = 0.018) and clopidogrel dose (p = 0.001) contributed to the concentration of CAM. No associations were observed for the CYP2C19*2 polymorphism. These results suggest that up‐regulation of ABCC3 mRNA expression leads to increased plasma CAM levels through MRP3‐mediated cell efflux. The ABCC3 rs757421 polymorphism may contribute to gene expression. Therefore, ABCC3 may be a potential biomarker for the response to clopidogrel.
“Very Good” Ratings in a Survey of Maternity Care: Kindness and Understanding Matter to Australian Women
Authors: Todd Angela L. , Ampt Amanda J. , Roberts Christine L.
Published: November 2016

Background

Surveys have shown that women are highly satisfied with their maternity care. Their satisfaction has been associated with various demographic, personal, and care factors. Isolating the factors that most matter to women about their care can guide quality improvement efforts. This study aimed to identify the most significant factors associated with high ratings of care by women in the three maternity periods (antenatal, birth, and postnatal).

Methods

A survey was sent to 2,048 women who gave birth at seven public hospitals in New South Wales, Australia, exploring their expectations of, and experiences with maternity care. Women's overall ratings of care for the antenatal, birth, and postnatal periods were analyzed, and a number of maternal characteristics and care factors examined as potential predictors of “Very good” ratings of care.

Results

Among 886 women with a completed survey, 65 percent assigned a “Very good” rating for antenatal care, 74 percent for birth care, 58 percent for postnatal care, and 44 percent for all three periods. One factor was strongly associated with care ratings in all three maternity periods: women who were “always or almost always” treated with kindness and understanding were 1.8–2.8 times more likely to rate their antenatal, birth, and postnatal care as “Very good.” A limited number of other factors were significantly associated with high care ratings for one or two of the maternity periods.

Conclusions

Women's perceptions about the quality of their interpersonal interactions with health caregivers have a significant bearing on women's views about their maternity care journey.
A randomized controlled trial of an early‐intervention, computer‐based literacy program to boost phonological skills in 4‐ to 6‐year‐old children
Authors: O'Callaghan Paul , McIvor Aimee , McVeigh Claire , Rushe Teresa
Published: November 2016

Background

Many school‐based interventions are being delivered in the absence of evidence of effectiveness (Snowling & Hulme, 2011, Br. J. Educ. Psychol., 81, 1).

Aims

This study sought to address this oversight by evaluating the effectiveness of the commonly used the Lexia Reading Core5 intervention, with 4‐ to 6‐year‐old pupils in Northern Ireland.

Sample

A total of 126 primary school pupils in year 1 and year 2 were screened on the Phonological Assessment Battery 2nd Edition (PhAB‐2). Children were recruited from the equivalent year groups to Reception and Year 1 in England and Wales, and Pre‐kindergarten and Kindergarten in North America.

Methods

A total of 98 below‐average pupils were randomized (T0) to either an 8‐week block ( = 647.51 min, SD = 158.21) of daily access to Lexia Reading Core5 (n = 49) or a waiting‐list control group (n = 49). Assessment of phonological skills was completed at post‐intervention (T1) and at 2‐month follow‐up (T2) for the intervention group only.

Results

Analysis of covariance which controlled for baseline scores found that the Lexia Reading Core5 intervention group made significantly greater gains in blending, F(1, 95) = 6.50, p = .012, partial η2 = .064 (small effect size) and non‐word reading, F(1, 95) = 7.20, p = .009, partial η2 = .070 (small effect size). Analysis of the 2‐month follow‐up of the intervention group found that all group treatment gains were maintained. However, improvements were not uniform among the intervention group with 35% failing to make progress despite access to support. Post‐hoc analysis revealed that higher T0 phonological working memory scores predicted improvements made in phonological skills.

Conclusions

An early‐intervention, computer‐based literacy program can be effective in boosting the phonological skills of 4‐ to 6‐year‐olds, particularly if these literacy difficulties are not linked to phonological working memory deficits.
Analysis of a cohort of 101 CDAII patients: description of 24 new molecular variants and genotype‐phenotype correlations
Authors: Bianchi Paola , Schwarz Klaus , Högel Josef , Fermo Elisa , Vercellati Cristina , Grosse Regine , van Wijk Richard , van Zwieten Rob , Barcellini Wilma , Zanella Alberto , Heimpel Hermann
Published: November 2016

Congenital dyserythropoietic anaemia type II (CDAII) is a rare autosomal recessive disease characterized by ineffective erythropoiesis, haemolysis, erythroblast morphological abnormalities, hypoglycosylation of some red blood cell membrane proteins, particularly band 3, and mutations in the SEC23B gene. We report the analysis of 101 patients from 91 families with a median follow‐up of 23 years (range 0–65); 68 patients are newly reported. Clinical and haematological parameters were separately analysed in early infancy and thereafter, when feasible. Molecular analysis of the SEC23B gene confirmed the high heterogeneity of the defect, leading to the identification of 54 different mutations, 24 of which are newly described. To evaluate the genotype‐phenotype correlation, patients were grouped according to their genotype (two missense mutations vs. one missense/one drastic mutation) and assigned to two different severity gradings based on laboratory data and on therapeutic needs; by this approach only a weak genotype‐phenotype correlation was observed in the analysed groups.
What determines forgiveness in close relationships? The role of post‐transgression trust
Authors: Strelan Peter , Karremans Johan C. , Krieg Josiah
Published: November 2016

Relationship closeness is one of the best predictors of forgiveness. But what is the process by which closeness encourages forgiveness? Across three studies, we employed a mix of experimental and correlational designs with prospective (N = 108), scenario (N = 71), and recall (N = 184) paradigms to test a multiple mediation model. We found consistent evidence that the positive association between relationship closeness and forgiveness may be explained by levels of post‐transgression trust in the offender. Moreover, trust always played the main mediating role in the forgiveness process, even when taking into account several transgression‐specific variables associated with both trust and forgiveness (e.g., apology). We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of trust as a key indicator of forgiveness in close relationships.
‘CHOOSE TO BE OPTIMISTIC, IT FEELS BETTER?’ EVIDENCE OF OPTIMISM ON EMPLOYMENT UTILITY
Authors: Dawson Chris , Hinks Tim , Veliziotis Michail
Published: November 2016

Individual's expected wages exceed predicted market wages. Rational expectations imply the divergence should be zero. If individuals over‐estimate the return from their attributes and view the paid‐employment return distribution too favourably, then conditional on market wages, subsequent employment utility is likely to be low through disappointment.
Responses of pre‐dispersal seed predators to sequential flowering of Dipterocarps in Malaysia
Authors: Hosaka Tetsuro , Yumoto Takakazu , Chen Yu‐Yun , Sun I‐Fang , Wright S. Joseph , Numata Shinya , Nur Supardi Noor Md
Published: November 2016

Many species of Dipterocarpaceae and other plant families reproduce synchronously at irregular, multi‐year intervals in Southeast Asian forests. These community‐wide general flowering events are thought to facilitate seed survival through satiation of generalist seed predators. During a general flowering event, closely related Shorea species (Dipterocarpaceae) stagger their flowering times by several weeks, which may minimize cross pollination and interspecific competition for pollinators. Generalist, pre‐dispersal seed predators might also track flowering hosts and influence predator satiation. We addressed the question of whether pre‐dispersal seed predation differed between early and late flowering Shorea species by monitoring flowering, fruiting and seed predation intensity over two general flowering events at the Pasoh Research Forest, Malaysia. Pre‐dispersal insect seed predators killed up to 63 percent of developing seeds, with Nanophyes shoreae, a weevil that feeds on immature seeds being the most important predator for all Shorea species. This weevil caused significantly greater pre‐dispersal seed predation in earlier flowering species. Long larval development time precluded oviposition by adults that emerged from the earliest flowering Shorea on the final flowering Shorea. In contrast, larvae of weevils that feed on mature seeds before seed dispersal (Alcidodes spp.), appeared in seeds of all Shorea species almost simultaneously. We conclude that general flowering events have the potential to satiate post‐dispersal seed predators and pre‐dispersal seed predators of mature fruit, but are less effective at satiating pre‐dispersal predators of immature fruit attacking early flowering species.
ZFP36L2 promotes cancer cell aggressiveness and is regulated by antitumor microRNA‐375 in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yonemori Keiichi , Seki Naohiko , Kurahara Hiroshi , Osako Yusaku , Idichi Tetsuya , Arai Takayuki , Koshizuka Keiichi , Kita Yoshiaki , Maemura Kosei , Natsugoe Shoji
Published: November 2016

Due to its aggressive nature, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most lethal and hard‐to‐treat malignancies. Recently developed targeted molecular strategies have contributed to remarkable improvements in the treatment of several cancers. However, such therapies have not been applied to PDAC. Therefore, new treatment options are needed for PDAC based on current genomic approaches. Expression of microRNA‐375 (miR‐375) was significantly reduced in miRNA expression signatures of several types of cancers, including PDAC. The aim of the present study was to investigate the functional roles of miR‐375 in PDAC cells and to identify miR‐375‐regulated molecular networks involved in PDAC aggressiveness. The expression levels of miR‐375 were markedly downregulated in PDAC clinical specimens and cell lines (PANC‐1 and SW1990). Ectopic expression of miR‐375 significantly suppressed cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Our in silico and gene expression analyses and luciferase reporter assay showed that zinc finger protein 36 ring finger protein‐like 2 (ZFP36L2) was a direct target of miR‐375 in PDAC cells. Silencing ZFP36L2 inhibited cancer cell aggressiveness in PDAC cell lines, and overexpression of ZFP36L2 was confirmed in PDAC clinical specimens. Interestingly, Kaplan–Meier survival curves showed that high expression of ZFP36L2 predicted shorter survival in patients with PDAC. Moreover, we investigated the downstream molecular networks of the miR‐375/ZFP36L2 axis in PDAC cells. Elucidation of tumor‐suppressive miR‐375‐mediated PDAC molecular networks may provide new insights into the potential mechanisms of PDAC pathogenesis.
The role of human β‐defensins in allergic diseases
Authors: Niyonsaba F. , Kiatsurayanon C. , Ogawa H.
Published: November 2016

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), also referred to as host defence peptides (HDPs), comprise a large family of small molecules broadly distributed throughout the animal and plant kingdom, historically serving as natural antibiotics. In mammals, there are two major families of AMPs/HDPs, the defensins and the cathelicidins. These peptides have evolved to protect against a wide range of infections from bacteria, viruses, fungi and some parasites. However, in addition to their broad‐spectrum killing activities, AMPs/HDPs also possess various biological functions. They activate a variety of cell types, such as keratinocytes, airway epithelial cells and mast cells, among others, and regulate cytokine/chemokine production, cell migration, proliferation, differentiation, angiogenesis, the wound healing process and maintenance of the skin barrier function. Recently, it has become clear that alterations in the level of AMPs/HDPs are associated with the initiation and development of various inflammatory and allergic diseases. In this review, we will discuss the regulation and functions of human β‐defensins and outline the current evidence supporting the role of these peptides in the pathogenesis of allergic diseases, including atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, asthma and chronic rhinosinusitis. Understanding the functions and mechanisms of human β‐defensins may aid in the development of novel therapeutic strategies for allergic diseases.
Molecular phylogenetic analysis of “pirate spiders” (Araneae, Mimetidae) with the description of a new African genus and the first report of maternal care in the family
Authors: Benavides Ligia R. , Giribet Gonzalo , Hormiga Gustavo
Published: November 2016

We investigate the phylogeny of “pirate spiders” (Mimetidae), a family of araneophagic spiders known for their use of aggressive mimicry as a foraging strategy, but poorly understood phylogenetically. Relationships are inferred by including molecular data from six loci for 92 mimetid terminals spanning four genera, and 119 outgroups representing 12 families. Phylogenetic analyses based on parsimony, maximum‐likelihood and Bayesian approaches, as well as static and dynamic homology, robustly support monophyly of Mimetidae and a sister‐group relationship to a clade comprising Tetragnathidae + Arkyidae. Relationships among the mimetid genera are largely congruent across methods, as follows: (Gelanor (Ero (Anansi n. gen. (Australomimetus, Mimetus)))). Diversification of Mimetidae is estimated to be around 114 Ma, in the Early Cretaceous. In light of the results of our phylogenetic analyses, we erect Anansi n. gen. to include a clade of mimetids from West Africa that contains at least four species, including the newly described A. luki n. sp. We present the first report of maternal care in Mimetidae based on novel field observations.
Transoral laser microsurgery versus radiotherapy for T2 glottic squamous cell carcinoma: a systematic review of local control outcomes
Authors: Warner L. , Lee K. , Homer J.J.
Published: November 2016

Background

Systematic reviews comparing treatment of early glottic cancer with transoral surgery or radiotherapy demonstrate similar oncological outcomes. Most studies of ‘early‐stage’ laryngeal cancer include Tis, T1a, T1b and T2 cases. The data are dominated by patients with T1 and Tis tumours, although extrapolating these results and applying them for T2 cases may be inappropriate. No previous systematic reviews have focused on T2 cancers as a separate group.

Objective of review

This review compares local control outcomes for T2 glottic squamous cell carcinoma, treated with transoral microsurgery or external beam radiotherapy.

Type of review

This is a systematic review of case series and comparison studies, focusing on oncological outcomes.

Search strategy

Independent searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Database were conducted by two authors, using the search terms: laryngeal/glottic/vocal cord combined with carcinoma/cancer/tumour and laser/microsurgery or radiotherapy. Studies of adult patients treated for primary T2N0 glottic squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) with laser surgery or curative radiotherapy were included.

Evaluation method

Full text of studies satisfying the inclusion criteria were reviewed with extraction of local control and survival data and laryngeal preservation rates. The primary endpoint is local control at 5 years.

Results

Initial searches identified 3252 studies. Following full‐text review of 183 papers, 59 studies met the inclusion criteria, all level IV evidence. A total of 48 studies specified 5‐year local control for 1156 patients treated with transoral laser surgery and 3191 patients treated with radiotherapy. Weighted averages of local control at 5 years demonstrated similar results: 75.81% for radiotherapy versus 77.26% for transoral laser surgery.

Conclusions

The results of this review indicate no difference in 5‐year local control between radiotherapy and transoral surgery for T2 glottic SCC. The data demonstrated higher rates of local failure for T2b compared with T2a cases, although outcomes were similar between laser excision and radiotherapy for each substage. Further research focusing upon functional outcomes for T2 glottic tumours is imperative to guide decision‐making, ideally with subgroup analysis of T2a and T2b cases.
Shoreline Armoring in an Inland Sea: Science‐Based Recommendations for Policy Implementation
Authors: Dethier Megan N. , Toft Jason D. , Shipman Hugh
Published: November 2016

Shoreline armoring can impact a variety of ecosystem functions, goods and services provided by beaches. Shoreline managers struggle to balance genuine need for armoring to protect infrastructure versus unacceptable losses of ecosystem functions––whether these be in beaches, sand dunes, or marshes. We use our recent research effort in the Salish Sea, Washington, as a case study to illustrate how highlighting the negative consequences of shoreline armoring to publicly important ecosystem functions may help to strengthen implementation of policy and prioritize restoration actions. We focus on two distinct mechanisms of armoring impact that link strongly to key beach functions, and recommend: (1) where armoring is clearly necessary, place or move it as high on the beach as possible. Armoring emplaced relatively low on the shore is more likely to affect a variety of ecosystem functions from forage fish spawning to beach recreation; (2) prioritize protection or restoration (armor removal) of feeder bluffs that are critical for sediment supply to the beach; this sediment is essential to the maintenance of beach functions. In addition, we recommend that nature‐based alternatives to armoring be given preferential regulatory consideration and that outreach efforts clarify the advantages of these engineering methods.
Effect of the water content of padded cotton fabrics on reactive dye fixation in the pad‐steam process
Authors: Zhang Jianfei , Zhang Xinqing , Fang Kuanjun , Shu Dawu , Gong Jixian , Liu Xiuming
Published: November 2016

A series of padded cotton fabrics with various water contents were obtained through vacuum dehydration. The effects of the water content on the fabric temperature variation during steaming, the colour properties, and the dye fixation rate (%F) were investigated. Dye distribution in the dyed cotton fibres was assessed. The influences of steaming time and sodium carbonate concentration on K/S value and %F of the dyed fabrics with low water content were also evaluated. The results indicate that reducing the water content of the padded cotton fabric to around 25.0% prior to steaming was favoured for reactive dyeing. The temperature of the wet fabric rose rapidly, the K/S value and %F were enhanced, and in addition the dye penetration into the dyed cotton fibres was sufficient. However, for padded fabrics with extraordinarily low and high water contents (e.g. 1.4% and 70.9% respectively), both the K/S value and %F were decreased. Furthermore, a white core phenomenon was evident for the fibres of the dyed fabric with a water content of 1.4%. Variation in the L* values was in line with the K/S values as the fabric water content varied. As expected, steaming time and sodium carbonate dosage can also affect reactive dye fixation greatly and should be determined accordingly for dyeing cotton fabric with low water content.
Serial measurement of presepsin, procalcitonin, and C‐reactive protein in the early postoperative period and the response to antithymocyte globulin administration after heart transplantation
Authors: Franeková Janka , Sečník Peter , Lavríková Petra , Kubíček Zdenek , Hošková Lenka , Kieslichová Eva , Jabor Antonín
Published: November 2016

Differentiation between systemic inflammatory response syndrome and sepsis in surgical patients is of crucial significance. Procalcitonin (PCT) and C‐reactive protein (CRP) are widely used biomarkers, but PCT becomes compromised after antithymocyte globulin (ATG) administration, and CRP exhibits limited specificity. Presepsin has been suggested as an alternative biomarker of sepsis. This study aimed to demonstrate the role of presepsin in patients after heart transplantation (HTx). Plasma presepsin, PCT, and CRP were measured in 107 patients serially for up to 10 days following HTx. Time responses of biomarkers were evaluated for both noninfected (n=91) and infected (n=16) patients. Areas under the concentration curve differed in the two groups of patients for presepsin (P<.001), PCT (P<.005), and CRP (P<.001). The effect of time and infection was significant for all three biomarkers (P<.05 all). In contrast to PCT, presepsin was not influenced by ATG administration. More than 25% of noninfected patients had PCT above 42 μg/L on the first day, and the peak concentration of CRP in infected patients was reached on the third post‐transplant day (median 135 mg/L). Presepsin seems to be as valuable a biomarker as PCT or CRP in the evaluation of infectious complications in patients after HTx.
Everolimus with early withdrawal or reduced‐dose calcineurin inhibitors improves renal function in liver transplant recipients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lin Michael , Mittal Sahil , Sahebjam Farhad , Rana Abbas , Sood Gagan K.
Published: November 2016

Calcineurin inhibitors (CNI) are the mainstay of immunosuppression after liver transplantation (LT), but CNIs are associated with significant nephrotoxicity. Recently, mTOR inhibitors such as sirolimus and everolimus (EVR) have been used with or without CNIs in LT recipients for their renal‐sparing effect. We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCT) that examined the effect of EVR with CNI minimization or withdrawal on renal function in LT recipients. RCT of primary adult LT recipients with baseline GFR >30 mL/min who received EVR with CNI minimization or withdrawal were included. Four RCTs (EVR n=465, control n=428) were included. In three RCTs, EVR was initiated 4 weeks following LT; these studies were used to assess the primary outcome. All four studies were used to assess the secondary outcomes. Based on this study, EVR use with CNI minimization in LT recipients is associated with improved renal function at 12 months by GFR of 10.2 mL/min (95% CI: 2.75‐17.8). EVR use was not associated with an increased risk of biopsy‐proven acute rejection (RR 0.68, 95% CI: 0.31‐1.46), graft loss (RR 1.60, 95% CI: 0.51‐5.00), or mortality (RR 1.34, 95% CI 0.62‐2.90). However, it was associated with an increased risk of overall infections (RR 1.45, 95% CI: 1.10‐1.91).
Direct oral anticoagulant considerations in solid organ transplantation: A review
Authors: Salerno David M. , Tsapepas Demetra , Papachristos Apostolos , Chang Jae‐Hyung , Martin Spencer , Hardy Mark A. , McKeen Jaclyn
Published: November 2016

For more than 60 years, warfarin was the only oral anticoagulation agent available for use in the United States. In many recent clinical trials, several direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) demonstrated similar efficacy with an equal or superior safety profile, with some other notable benefits. The DOACs have lower inter‐ and intrapatient variability, much shorter half‐lives, and less known drug‐drug and drug‐food interactions as compared to warfarin. Despite these demonstrated benefits, the use of DOACs has not gained uniform acceptance because of lack of supportive data in special patient populations, including recipients of solid organ transplants maintained on immunosuppression. This review describes the properties of several novel DOACs including their pharmacology and mechanisms of action as they relate to use among solid organ transplant recipients. We have particularly focused on (i) dosing in patients with impaired renal and hepatic function; (ii) considerations for drug‐drug interactions with immunosuppressive medications; and (iii) management of the anticoagulated patients at the time of unplanned surgery. The risks and benefits of the use of DOACs in solid organ transplant recipients should be carefully evaluated prior to the introduction of these agents in this highly distinct patient population.
China's Bilateral Currency Swap Lines
Authors: Lin Zhitao , Zhan Wenjie , Cheung Yin‐Wong
Published: November 2016

We study the determinants of China's bilateral local currency swap lines that were established following the recent global finance crisis. It is found that economic factors, political considerations and institutional characteristics, including trade intensity, economic size, strategic partnership, free trade agreements, corruption and stability, affect the decision to sign a swap line agreement. Once a swap line agreement decision is made, the size of the swap line is then mainly affected by trade intensity, economic size and the presence of a free trade agreement. The results are quite robust with respect to the choices of the Heckman two‐stage framework or the proportional hazard model. The gravity effect captured by distances between China and its counterparts, if present, is mainly observed during the early part of the sample period under consideration.
Cytological features of solid variants of papillary thyroid carcinoma: a fine needle aspiration cytology study of 18 cases
Authors: Higuchi M. , Hirokawa M. , Suzuki A. , Takada N. , Yamao N. , Kuma S. , Miyauchi A.
Published: November 2016

Objective

Solid variants of papillary thyroid carcinoma (SV‐PTC) are rare, and there have been few reports describing the cytological findings of such variants.

Methods

The cytological features of cellular specimens aspirated from 18 histologically confirmed SV‐PTC cases were evaluated, retrospectively.

Results

Solid and small papillary clusters were observed in 14 (77.8%) and 13 (72.2%) cases, respectively. The incidences of large papillary clusters (11.1%) and sheet‐like arrangements (11.1%) were low. Nuclear features were consistent with conventional PTC. The background was clean, and there were no colloid materials, foamy histiocytes, multinucleated giant cells, psammoma bodies, or necrotic materials.

Conclusions

Solid clusters and small papillary clusters in conjunction with a clean background are diagnostic clues that indicate SV‐PTC cytologically. It is thought that small papillary clusters reflect the micropapillary growth pattern seen within the lumen of middle‐sized follicular structures. The presence of nuclear findings typical of conventional PTC and the absence of mitotic figures and necrotic materials are important for distinguishing SV‐PTC from poorly differentiated carcinoma.
Cardiovascular events and all‐cause mortality associated with sulphonylureas compared with other antihyperglycaemic drugs: A Bayesian meta‐analysis of survival data
Authors: Bain Steve , Druyts Eric , Balijepalli Chakrapani , Baxter Carl A. , Currie Craig J. , Das Romita , Donnelly Richard , Khunti Kamlesh , Langerman Haya , Leigh Paul , Siliman Gaye , Thorlund Kristian , Toor Kabirraaj , Vora Jiten , Mills Edward J.
Published: November 2016

Aim

To conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis to determine the risk of cardiovascular events and all‐cause mortality associated with sulphonylureas (SUs) vs other glucose lowering drugs in patients with T2DM (T2DM).

Materials and methods

A systematic review of Medline, Embase, Cochrane and clinicaltrials.gov was conducted for studies comparing SUs with placebo or other antihyperglycaemic drugs in patients with T2DM. A cloglog model was used in the Bayesian framework to obtain comparative hazard ratios (HRs) for the different interventions. For the analysis of observational data, conventional fixed‐effect pairwise meta‐analyses were used.

Results

The systematic review identified 82 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 26 observational studies. Meta‐analyses of RCT data showed an increased risk of all‐cause mortality and cardiovascular‐related mortality for SUs compared with all other treatments combined (HR 1.26, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.10‐1.44 and HR 1.46, 95% CI 1.21‐1.77, respectively). The risk of myocardial infarction was significantly higher for SUs compared with dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4) inhibitors and sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors (HR 2.54, 95% CI 1.14‐6.57 and HR 41.80, 95% CI 1.64‐360.4, respectively). The risk of stroke was significantly higher for SUs than for DPP‐4 inhibitors, glucagon‐like peptide‐1 agonists, thiazolidinediones and insulin.

Conclusions

The present meta‐analysis showed an association between SU therapy and a higher risk of major cardiovascular disease‐related events compared with other glucose lowering drugs. Results of ongoing RCTs, which should be available in 2018, will provide definitive results on the risk of cardiovascular events and all‐cause mortality associated with SUs vs other antihyperglycaemic drugs.