bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maturation promoting factor destabilization facilitates postovulatory aging‐mediated abortive spontaneous egg activation in rat
Authors: Prasad Shilpa , Koch Biplob , Chaube Shail K.
Published: March 2016

The present study was designed to investigate whether destabilization of maturation promoting factor (MPF) leads to postovulatory aging‐mediated abortive spontaneous egg activation (SEA). If so, we wished to determine whether changes in Wee‐1 as well as Emi2 levels are associated with MPF destabilization during postovulatory aging‐mediated abortive SEA in rats eggs aged in vivo. For this purpose, sexually immature female rats were given a single injection (20 IU IM) of pregnant mare serum gonadotropin for 48 h followed by single injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (20 IU). Ovulated eggs were collected after 14, 17, 19 and 21 h post‐hCG surge to induce postovulatory aging in vivo. The morphological changes, Wee1, phosphorylation status of cyclin dependent kinase 1(Cdk1), early mitotic inhibitor 2 (Emi2), anaphase promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C), cyclin B1, mitotic arrest deficient protein (MAD2) levels and Cdk1 activity were analyzed. The increased Wee 1 level triggered phosphorylation of Thr‐14/Tyr‐15 and dephosphorylation of Thr‐161 residues of Cdk1. The decrease of Emi2 level was associated with increased APC/C level and decreased cyclin B1 level. Changes in phosphorylation status of Cdk1 and reduced cyclin B1 level resulted in destabilization of MPF. The destabilized MPF finally led to postovulatory aging‐mediated abortive SEA in rat eggs. It was concluded that the increase of Wee 1 but decrease of Emi2 level triggers MPF destabilization and thereby postovulatory aging‐mediated abortive SEA in rat eggs.
Soft neurological signs and prenatal alcohol exposure: a population‐based study in remote Australia
Authors: Lucas Barbara R , Latimer Jane , Fitzpatrick James P , Doney Robyn , Watkins Rochelle E , Tsang Tracey W , Jirikowic Tracy , Carmichael Olson Heather , Oscar June , Carter Maureen , Elliott Elizabeth J
Published: March 2016

Aim

To identify soft neurological signs (SNS) in a population‐based study of children living in remote Aboriginal communities in the Fitzroy Valley, Western Australia, born between 2002 and 2003 and explore the relationship between SNS, prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE), and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD).

Method

The presence of SNS was assessed using the Quick Neurological Screening Test, 2nd edition (QNST‐2), which has a total maximum score of 140. Higher scores indicated more SNS. ‘Severe discrepancy’ was defined as scores less than or equal to the fifth centile while ‘moderate discrepancy’ represented scores from the sixth to the 24th centile. Children were assigned FASD diagnoses using modified Canadian FASD diagnostic guidelines.

Results

A total of 108 of 134 (80.6%) eligible children (mean age 8y 9mo, SD=6mo, 53% male) were assessed. The median QNST‐2 Total Score for all participants was within the normal category (19.0, range 4–66). However, the median QNST‐2 Total Score was higher in children with than without (1) PAE (r=0.2, p=0.045) and (2) FASD (r=0.3, p=0.004). Half (8/16) of children scoring ‘moderate discrepancy’ and all (2/2) children scoring ‘severe discrepancy’ had at least three domains of central nervous system impairment.

Interpretation

SNS were more common in children with PAE or FASD, consistent with the known neurotoxic effect of PAE. The QNST‐2 is a useful screen for subtle neurological dysfunction indicating the need for more comprehensive assessment in children with PAE or FASD.
CRIMINALS' RESPONSE TO CHANGING CRIME LUCRE
Authors: Shoukry George F. N.
Published: March 2016

How do criminals respond to changes in the benefit from committing a successful crime? This question is relevant for understanding the effectiveness of crime‐fighting policies that reduce demand for illegal goods, disrupt black markets, and otherwise eliminate cheaper avenues to illicit gain. However, the literature has not sufficiently addressed this question, partly because finding a reliable measure of crime lucre is difficult. Using proprietary data on cargo theft, I match historical prices of various goods with their thefts and estimate the price elasticity of theft to be 1.225 over a cumulative 7‐month horizon. (JEL K42)
LABOR MARKET PERFORMANCE EFFECTS OF DISCRIMINATION AND LOSS OF SKILL
Authors: Larsen Birthe , Waisman Gisela
Published: March 2016

We examine the impact of discrimination on labor market performance when workers are subject to a risk of losing skills during an unemployment experience. Within a search and matching framework, we show that both natives and immigrants are affected by discrimination. Discrimination in one sector has positive spillovers, inducing employment to increase in the other sector and the effect on labor market performance therefore depends on whether discrimination is present in only one sector or in both. Discrimination may induce workers to train more or less than natives after having lost their skills, dependent upon in which sector there is discrimination. Net output tends to be most negatively affected by discrimination among high‐skilled workers. (JEL J15, J31, J61, J64, J71)
Clinical factors and socio‐demographic characteristics associated with dental trauma in children: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Corrêa‐Faria Patrícia , Martins Carolina C. , Bönecker Marcelo , Paiva Saul M. , Ramos‐Jorge Maria Letícia , Pordeus Isabela A.
Published: March 2016

Objective

The aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to search for scientific evidence regarding the factors associated with traumatic dental injury (TDI) in the primary dentition.

Methodology

An electronic search addressing factors associated with TDI was conducted in the PubMed, ISI, LILACS, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases. Data were extracted and analyzed regarding risk factors, statistical test, effect measures, and study design.

Results

The online search strategy led to the initial retrieval of 2566 articles. After evaluating the titles and abstracts, 24 papers were selected for complete review and data collection. TDI was associated with males (OR: 1.24; 95%CI: 1.09–1.41), inadequate lip coverage (OR: 1.81; 95%CI: 1.50–2.17), overbite (OR: 1.438; 95%CI: 0.94–2.19), and age (1 vs 2 years – OR: 0.47; 95%CI: 0.38–0.58; 2 vs 3 years – OR: 0.78; 95%CI: 0.67–0.91; 3 vs 4 years – OR: 0.82; 95%CI: 0.71–0.95). Overjet and anterior open bite were associated with TDI in the majority of studies.

Conclusions

Males, older children, and those with inadequate lip coverage, overbite, or overjet are more likely to have TDI in the primary dentition.
Dynamic landscapes shape post‐wildfire recolonisation and genetic structure of the endangered Hermes copper (Lycaena hermes) butterfly
Authors: MARSCHALEK DANIEL A. , DEUTSCHMAN DOUGLAS H. , STRAHM SPRING , BERRES MARK E.
Published: March 2016

1. The coastal sage scrub vegetation community experiences frequent fires, so the long‐term survival of species depends on the rate of recolonisations exceeding the rate of local extinctions. Recolonisation of these post‐wildfire habitats probably requires long‐distance dispersal events. These movements can also counter detrimental impacts associated with inbreeding.

2. The Hermes copper (Lycaena hermes) is an extremely rare butterfly inhabiting coastal sage scrub adjacent to San Diego, California, USA. Habitat loss due to urbanisation and impacts of recent wildfires has greatly restricted its range, prompting the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to list the Hermes copper as a Candidate Species in 2011.

3. Surveys for Hermes copper butterflies in 2010–2013 documented only two recolonisation events following wildfires in 2003 and 2007. Larger populations were readily detected each year, but detection of smaller populations was inconsistent.

4. Amplified fragment length polymorphism was used to identify potential genetic discontinuities within this species across the landscape. Results indicated that movements across much of the landscape were possible historically. However, individuals from three peripheral populations exhibited a higher degree of differentiation, suggesting more restricted dispersal in these regions.

5. From the results, it can be concluded that historically Hermes copper butterflies were able to move among habitat patches prior to recent changes in the landscape. However, low post‐fire recolonisation rates suggest limited contemporary dispersal, probably due to recent habitat fragmentation. This fragmentation is a relatively new event, as the human population in San Diego County experienced substantial growth in the late 20th Century.
Powdery mildew disease of rubber tree
Authors: Liyanage K. K. , Khan S. , Mortimer P. E. , Hyde K. D. , Xu J. , Brooks S. , Ming Z.
Published: March 2016

Powdery mildew disease of rubber trees affects young rubber leaves, buds, inflorescences and other immature tissues reducing rubber latex yields by up to 45%. The disease is present in all rubber‐growing regions, with a high incidence rate in subtropical environments. The causal agent of powdery mildew disease of rubber trees was first described as Oidium heveae, but later research on the morphological characteristics suggests that O. heveae was in the past confused with Erysiphe quercicola. However, the most appropriate classification is still under debate between the genera Golovinomyces or Podosphaera. Molecular and phylogenetic analyses have established some relationships between rubber powdery mildew fungus and other powdery mildew species, but the generic sexual state of rubber powdery mildew fungus has not yet been established. Rubber powdery mildew conidia are wind‐spread spores that are produced in great numbers when growth conditions of the disease are favourable. The optimum conditions for conidial germination are 97–100% relative humidity and temperatures between 25 and 28°C. While some newly bred rubber clones have shown resistance to the disease, it can also be controlled with a number of fungicides and biological control agents. It is clear from recent knowledge about climate–fungus relationships that changes in weather strongly influence disease incidence and severity. The aim of this review is to highlight the classification conflicts, main causes and influencing factors behind the disease spreading, as well as draw attention to the impact of weather changes on the outbreaks of the disease. The information in this review will be helpful to adopt better control measures of the powdery mildew disease of rubber, especially in higher humidity areas, thereby minimizing the loss of rubber yields due to this disease.
Neither Basic Life Support knowledge nor self‐efficacy are predictive of skills among dental students
Authors: Mac Giolla Phadraig C. , Ho J. D. , Guerin S. , Yeoh Y. L. , Mohamed Medhat M. , Doody K. , Hwang S. , Hania M. , Boggs S. , Nolan A. , Nunn J.
Published: March 2016

Aim

Basic life support (BLS) is considered a core competence for the graduating dentist. This study aimed to measure BLS knowledge, self‐efficacy and skills of undergraduate dental students in Dublin.

Methods

This study consisted of a cross‐sectional survey measuring BLS knowledge and self‐efficacy, accompanied by a directly observed BLS skills assessment in a subsample of respondents. Data were collected in January 2014. Bivariate correlations between descriptive and outcome variables (knowledge, self‐efficacy and skills) were tested using Pearson's chi‐square. We included knowledge and self‐efficacy as predictor variables, along with other variables showing association, into a binary logistic regression model with BLS skills as the outcome measure.

Results

One hundred and thirty‐five students participated. Almost all (n = 133, 98.5%) participants had BLS training within the last 2 years. One hundred and four (77%) felt that they were capable of providing effective BLS (self‐efficacy), whilst only 46 (34.1%) scored >80% of knowledge items correct. Amongst the skills (n = 85) subsample, 38.8% (n = 33) were found to pass the BLS skills assessment. Controlling for gender, age and skills assessor, the regression model did not identify a predictive relationship between knowledge or self‐efficacy and BLS skills.

Conclusions

Neither knowledge nor self‐efficacy was predictive of BLS skills. Dental students had low levels of knowledge and skills in BLS. Despite this, their confidence in their ability to perform BLS was high and did not predict actual competence. There is a need for additional hands‐on training, focusing on self‐efficacy and BLS skills, particularly the use of AED.
Antitumour activity of the glycoengineered type II anti‐CD20 antibody obinutuzumab (GA101) in combination with the MDM2‐selective antagonist idasanutlin (RG7388)
Authors: Herting Frank , Herter Sylvia , Friess Thomas , Muth Gunther , Bacac Marina , Sulcova Jitka , Umana Pablo , Dangl Markus , Klein Christian
Published: March 2016

Objectives

To investigate whether the glycoengineered type II anti‐CD20 monoclonal antibody obinutuzumab (GA101) combined with the selective MDM2 antagonist idasanutlin (RG7388) offers superior efficacy to monotherapy in treating B‐lymphoid malignancies in preclinical models.

Methods

The combined effect of obinutuzumab or rituximab plus idasanutlin on direct cell death/apoptosis induction and antibody‐dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) was evaluated using p53 wild‐type Z‐138 and DoHH‐2 lymphoma cells. Furthermore, whole blood B‐cell depletion was analysed, and tumour growth inhibition was evaluated in subcutaneous xenograft models.

Results

Idasanutlin induced concentration‐dependent death of Z‐138 and DoHH‐2 cells. At concentrations >10–100 nm, idasanutlin enhanced obinutuzumab‐induced death of DoHH‐2 and Z‐138 cells without negatively impacting obinutuzumab‐mediated ADCC, natural killer cell activation or whole blood B‐cell depletion. In the Z‐138 xenograft model, a suboptimal dose of obinutuzumab with idasanutlin yielded substantial tumour growth inhibition and prolonged survival in a time‐to‐event analysis. In the DoHH‐2 model, idasanutlin plus obinutuzumab showed superior tumour growth inhibition to idasanutlin plus rituximab.

Conclusions

Obinutuzumab plus idasanutlin enhanced cell death of p53 wild‐type tumour cells vs. rituximab plus idasanutlin without affecting obinutuzumab‐mediated ADCC or B‐cell depletion and showed robust antitumour efficacy in xenograft models, strongly supporting the investigation of this combination in clinical trials.
Unmasking the linear behaviour of slow motor adaptation to prolonged convergence
Authors: Erkelens Ian M. , Thompson Benjamin , Bobier William R.
Published: March 2016

Adaptation to changing environmental demands is central to maintaining optimal motor system function. Current theories suggest that adaptation in both the skeletal‐motor and oculomotor systems involves a combination of fast (reflexive) and slow (recalibration) mechanisms. Here we used the oculomotor vergence system as a model to investigate the mechanisms underlying slow motor adaptation. Unlike reaching with the upper limbs, vergence is less susceptible to changes in cognitive strategy that can affect the behaviour of motor adaptation. We tested the hypothesis that mechanisms of slow motor adaptation reflect early neural processing by assessing the linearity of adaptive responses over a large range of stimuli. Using varied disparity stimuli in conflict with accommodation, the slow adaptation of tonic vergence was found to exhibit a linear response whereby the rate (R2 = 0.85, P < 0.0001) and amplitude (R2 = 0.65, P < 0.0001) of the adaptive effects increased proportionally with stimulus amplitude. These results suggest that this slow adaptive mechanism is an early neural process, implying a fundamental physiological nature that is potentially dominated by subcortical and cerebellar substrates.
Increase in NRAS mutant allele percentage during metastatic melanoma progression
Authors: Funck‐Brentano Elisa , Hélias‐Rodzewicz Zofia , Longvert Christine , Mokhtari Karima , Saiag Philippe , Emile Jean‐François
Published: March 2016

One‐fifth of cutaneous melanomas have dominant gain‐of‐function mutations of the NRAS oncogene. We report the first two cases of increasing NRAS mutant allele frequency in melanoma metastases and show that the chromosomal mechanism of this homozygosity is an increased polysomy of chromosome 1. We observed an increase in NRAS mutant allele percentage (NRAS‐MA%) in the metastatic melanoma progression from 2 patients with melanomas harbouring a NRAS mutation (p.Q61K in case 1 and p.Q61R in case 2). In case 1, we observed a NRAS‐MA% increase from 18% within the first metastatic node to 81%, 92% and 85% respectively in the three subsequent metastases: lymph node, brain and subcutaneous metastases biopsied 1, 6 and 17 months, respectively, after the initial lymph node biopsy. In case 2, we observed an increase in NRAS‐MA% from 40% within the primary melanoma to 63% within the metastatic lymph node. FISH analysis showed the same results in both cases: a frequent polysomy of chromosome 1 in metastasis samples with NRAS mutant allele percentage >60%, while most cells were disomic in the samples with well‐balanced heterozygous mutations. The percentage of NRAS mutant allele may increase during metastatic progression and may be associated with chromosomal instability. Further studies are needed to evaluate the prognostic impact of the NRAS homozygous status and/or polyploidy in metastatic cutaneous melanomas.
Burbot and large hydropower in North America: benefits, threats and research needs for mitigation
Authors: Harrison P. M. , Gutowsky L. F. G. , Martins E. G. , Patterson D. A. , Cooke S. J. , Power M.
Published: March 2016

In North America, burbot Lota lota (L.), interactions with hydropower are common, southern burbot populations are endangered and hydropower has been implicated in the decline. Thus, the objectives of this review were to identify threats and benefits of hydropower to riverine and reservoir dwelling burbot, assess overall impacts and identify key research needs for mitigation. Review findings suggest that while winter hydropower discharge regimes threaten riverine burbot spawning, burbot often successfully exploit reservoir environments. Further, while turbine entrainment has been hypothesised as a factor in the decline of burbot populations, low adult vulnerability to passage and a high resilience to juvenile removals likely mean risk to populations is low. Identified research needs include better definitions of flow and temperature requirements for riverine burbot and a quantification of the potential for reservoirs to act as source populations for downstream impacted zones. This review highlights the Pacific watershed focus of existing work and calls for status assessments and ecological research of burbot in North American Arctic and Atlantic watersheds where large hydropower and burbot interactions are common yet rarely studied.
Quantitative analysis of oyster larval proteome provides new insights into the effects of multiple climate change stressors
Authors: Dineshram Ramadoss , Chandramouli Kondethimmanahalli , Ko Ginger Wai Kuen , Zhang Huoming , Qian Pei‐Yuan , Ravasi Timothy , Thiyagarajan Vengatesen
Published: March 2016

The metamorphosis of planktonic larvae of the Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) underpins their complex life‐history strategy by switching on the molecular machinery required for sessile life and building calcite shells. Metamorphosis becomes a survival bottleneck, which will be pressured by different anthropogenically induced climate change‐related variables. Therefore, it is important to understand how metamorphosing larvae interact with emerging climate change stressors. To predict how larvae might be affected in a future ocean, we examined changes in the proteome of metamorphosing larvae under multiple stressors: decreased pH (pH 7.4), increased temperature (30 °C), and reduced salinity (15 psu). Quantitative protein expression profiling using iTRAQ‐LC‐MS/MS identified more than 1300 proteins. Decreased pH had a negative effect on metamorphosis by down‐regulating several proteins involved in energy production, metabolism, and protein synthesis. However, warming switched on these down‐regulated pathways at pH 7.4. Under multiple stressors, cell signaling, energy production, growth, and developmental pathways were up‐regulated, although metamorphosis was still reduced. Despite the lack of lethal effects, significant physiological responses to both individual and interacting climate change related stressors were observed at proteome level. The metamorphosing larvae of the C. gigas population in the Yellow Sea appear to have adequate phenotypic plasticity at the proteome level to survive in future coastal oceans, but with developmental and physiological costs.
Isotopic insights into methane production, oxidation, and emissions in Arctic polygon tundra
Authors: Vaughn Lydia J. S. , Conrad Mark E. , Bill Markus , Torn Margaret S.
Published: March 2016

Arctic wetlands are currently net sources of atmospheric CH4. Due to their complex biogeochemical controls and high spatial and temporal variability, current net CH4 emissions and gross CH4 processes have been difficult to quantify, and their predicted responses to climate change remain uncertain. We investigated CH4 production, oxidation, and surface emissions in Arctic polygon tundra, across a wet‐to‐dry permafrost degradation gradient from low‐centered (intact) to flat‐ and high‐centered (degraded) polygons. From 3 microtopographic positions (polygon centers, rims, and troughs) along the permafrost degradation gradient, we measured surface CH4 and CO2 fluxes, concentrations and stable isotope compositions of CH4 and DIC at three depths in the soil, and soil moisture and temperature. More degraded sites had lower CH4 emissions, a different primary methanogenic pathway, and greater CH4 oxidation than did intact permafrost sites, to a greater degree than soil moisture or temperature could explain. Surface CH4 flux decreased from 64 nmol m−2 s−1 in intact polygons to 7 nmol m−2 s−1 in degraded polygons, and stable isotope signatures of CH4 and DIC showed that acetate cleavage dominated CH4 production in low‐centered polygons, while CO2 reduction was the primary pathway in degraded polygons. We see evidence that differences in water flow and vegetation between intact and degraded polygons contributed to these observations. In contrast to many previous studies, these findings document a mechanism whereby permafrost degradation can lead to local decreases in tundra CH4 emissions.
Botulinum Toxin as Monotherapy in Symptomatic Trigeminal Neuralgia
Authors: Lunde Hanne Marie Bøe , Torkildsen Øivind , Bø Lars , Bertelsen Anne Kjørsvik
Published: March 2016

Background

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is one of the most agonizing facial pain disorders that humans endure. Studies on onabotulinum toxin A (BTX‐A) treatment for TN are limited, but promising with respect to TN of no identifiable cause. We aimed to investigate the efficiency and safety of BTX‐A treatment in a 60‐year‐old male with diabetes mellitus who in March 2013 presented with TN caused by an exostosis in Meckel's cave.

Methods

The patient was medically treatment refractory due to insufficient pain relief and adverse events of hyperglycemia, and surgery was declined due to complex anatomy. As a last resort, BTX‐A was injected into the pain trigger zones of the trigeminal nerve (V5).

Results

Complete analgesia was reported 2 weeks after BTX‐A injection. Pain medications were discontinued and laboratory values returned to acceptable levels. Regular BTX‐A treatment during the next 28 months showed sustained analgesic effect.

Conclusions

BTX‐A has an excellent safety profile and may be efficient for patients with symptomatic TN not suited for conventional therapies.
Clinical implications of serum Wisteria floribunda agglutinin‐positive Mac‐2‐binding protein in treatment‐naïve chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Ishii Akio , Nishikawa Hiroki , Enomoto Hirayuki , Iwata Yoshinori , Kishino Kyohei , Shimono Yoshihiro , Hasegawa Kunihiro , Nakano Chikage , Takata Ryo , Nishimura Takashi , Yoh Kazunori , Aizawa Nobuhiro , Sakai Yoshiyuki , Ikeda Naoto , Takashima Tomoyuki , Iijima Hiroko , Nishiguchi Shuhei
Published: March 2016

Aim

To examine the relationship between serum Wisteria floribunda agglutinin‐positive Mac‐2‐binding protein (WFA+‐M2BP) levels and liver histological findings for patients with treatment naïve chronic hepatitis B (CHB).

Methods

A total of 189 treatment naïve‐CHB patients were analyzed. We examined the effect of pretreatment serum WFA+‐M2BP levels on histological findings compared with other laboratory markers, including aspartate aminotransferase (AST) to platelet ratio index, Fibrosis‐4 index, platelet count, AST to alanine aminotransferase (ALT) ratio, and hyaluronic acid as liver fibrosis markers, and AST value, ALT value, and serum interferon‐γ‐inducible protein‐10 level as liver inflammation markers.

Results

The WFA+‐M2BP value ranged from 0.3 cut‐off index (COI) to 12.9 COI (median value, 1.2 COI). The degree of liver fibrosis was significantly stratified according to WFA+‐M2BP level in each group except for groups F2 and F3 and the degree of liver inflammation activity was significantly stratified according to WFA+‐M2BP level in each group. For predicting F4, WFA+‐M2BP level yielded the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) with a level of 0.87 and for predicting advanced liver fibrosis (≥F3) and significant liver fibrosis (≥F2), WFA+‐M2BP level yielded the second highest AUROCs (both, 0.77) among six fibrotic markers. For predicting severe (A3) or significant liver inflammation activity (≥A2), AUROCs of WFA+‐M2BP level were 0.78 and 0.76.

Conclusion

The WFA+‐M2BP level can be a useful marker for assessing liver histological findings in patients with treatment‐naïve CHB, although it has several limitations.
Remote vs. local ischaemic preconditioning in the rat heart: infarct limitation, suppression of ischaemic arrhythmia and the role of reactive oxygen species
Authors: Galagudza Michael M. , Sonin Dmitry L. , Vlasov Timur D. , Kurapeev Dmitry I. , Shlyakhto Eugene V.
Published: March 2016

The unmet clinical need for myocardial salvage during ischaemia–reperfusion injury requires the development of new techniques for myocardial protection. In this study the protective effect of different local ischaemic preconditioning (LIPC) and remote ischaemic preconditioning (RIPC) protocols was compared in the rat model of myocardial ischaemia–reperfusion, using infarct size and ischaemic tachyarrhythmias as end‐points. In addition, the hypothesis that there is involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the protective signalling by RIPC was tested, again in comparison with LIPC. The animals were subjected to 30‐min coronary occlusion and 90‐min reperfusion. RIPC protocol included either transient infrarenal aortic occlusion (for 5, 15 and 30 min followed by 15‐min reperfusion) or 15‐min mesenteric artery occlusion with 15‐min reperfusion. Ventricular tachyarrhythmias during test ischaemia were quantified according to Lambeth Conventions. It was found that the infarct‐limiting effect of RIPC critically depends on the duration of a single episode of remote ischaemia, which fails to protect the heart from infarction when it is too short or, instead, too prolonged. It was also shown that RIPC is ineffective in reducing the incidence and severity of ischaemia‐induced ventricular tachyarrhythmias. According to our data, the infarct‐limiting effect of LIPC could be partially eliminated by the administration of ROS scavenger N‐2‐mercaptopropionylglycine (90 mg/kg), whereas the same effect of RIPC seems to be independent of ROS signalling.
Interventions for molluscum contagiosum in people infected with human immunodeficiency virus: a systematic review
Authors: Martin Paul
Published: March 2016

Background

Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a viral skin disease that presents with white, painless papules with central umbilication. In immunocompent individuals, MC is usually a benign infection that resolves without intervention. In HIV positive people, symptoms of MC can be more severe.

Objective

The aim of this systematic review is to analyze the literature on strategies for treating MC in people concomitantly infected with HIV and subsequently make recommendations on best management strategies for these people.

Method

Searches were conducted of the following electronic databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, PubMed, LILACS, IndMED, Global Health, ClinicalTrials.Gov, and Current Controlled Trials. Grey literature was searched via the New York Academy of Medicine Grey Literature Report and Open Grey. References cited in previous reviews and references cited in studies identified as being possibly relevant were also reviewed. No language restrictions were imposed. Papers from 1980 to present were reviewed.

Results & Discussion

Thirteen studies were included in this review. Two papers were comparative studies, one of which was randomized and neither of which were blinded. Ten papers were observational studies with heterogeneous populations. One study was a multicentre cohort study.

Conclusion

Given the poor quality of study design, wide array of outcome variables, and lack of objective evidence, no specific recommendation can be made for the treatment of MC in people infected with HIV, other than the initiation of ART. Despite the good impact ART has made on prevalence of dermatologic disease, MC remains an important cause of morbidity in HIV positive populations.
Understanding and Development of Supply Chain Agility and Flexibility: A Structured Literature Review
Authors: Fayezi Sajad , Zutshi Ambika , O'Loughlin Andrew
Published: March 2016

This paper provides a review of the literature while contributing to academic understanding of the concepts of agility and flexibility within the supply chain. The research identified 83 peer‐reviewed articles through a structured review technique, which is based on a three‐stage refinement process. Data reduction procedures using codification, sentence strings and a review of keywords, title, abstract and conclusion were used in the search. The papers identified focused on organizational and supply chain agility and flexibility. The acknowledged gaps in understanding and development of agility and flexibility in supply chains were identified and categorized in terms of conceptual, contextual and methodological gaps. Subsequent to the gap analysis, this paper argues that effective relationship integration with key partners is a fundamental mechanism for mitigating the problem of control dissipation, which has hindered academic understanding with respect to development and application of agile and flexible capabilities in supply chains. The findings in this paper will help academics to gain a better understanding and to develop the concepts of supply chain agility and flexibility. In addition, the findings indicate that supply chain stakeholders need to address the issue of relationship integration when undertaking, or participating in agility and flexibility development programmes, so as to maximize supply chain performance. The paper concludes by highlighting implications for managers and researchers, and proposes a number of areas for future investigation.
Influence of everolimus on the pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus in Japanese renal transplant patients
Authors: Niioka Takenori , Kagaya Hideaki , Saito Mitsuru , Inoue Takamitsu , Numakura Kazuyuki , Yamamoto Ryohei , Akamine Yumiko , Habuchi Tomonori , Satoh Shigeru , Miura Masatomo
Published: March 2016

Objectives

To examine whether a trough concentration of everolimus in the therapeutic range of 3–5 ng/mL affects the pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus in renal transplant patients.

Methods

A total of 52 Japanese renal transplant patients receiving tacrolimus were enrolled in this study. In 28 of them, everolimus was co‐administered on day 14 after surgery. Changes in the dose‐adjusted blood trough concentration of tacrolimus from day 14 to 28 after surgery were investigated.

Results

The dose‐adjusted blood trough concentration of tacrolimus on day 28 was affected by CYP3A5*3/*3 and hemoglobin level (P < 0.001 and P = 0.007), but not by everolimus (P = 0.171). In addition, there was no change in the dose‐adjusted blood trough concentration of tacrolimus in patients before or after everolimus coadministration (P = 0.165). On day 28, there was no correlation between the rate of change in the dose‐adjusted blood trough concentration of tacrolimus and the blood trough concentration or area under the plasma concentration‐time curve from 0 to 12 h for everolimus after initiation of combination therapy (r = 0.341, P = 0.076 and r = 0.234, P = 0.231).

Conclusions

A pharmacokinetic interaction between tacrolimus and everolimus was not observed clinically in renal transplant patients. Safe and reliable immunosuppressive therapy in renal transplant patients might be achieved using a combination of tacrolimus and everolimus.
Using intron sequence comparisons in the triose‐phosphate isomerase gene to study the divergence of the fall armyworm host strains
Authors: Nagoshi R. N. , Meagher R. L.
Published: March 2016

The noctuid moth Spodoptera frugiperda (the fall armyworm) is endemic to the Western Hemisphere and appears to be undergoing sympatric speciation to produce two subpopulations that differ in their choice of host plants. The ‘rice strain’ and ‘corn strain’ are morphologically indistinguishable, requiring the use of genetic markers for identification. Because fall armyworm is a major pest of corn and several other agricultural crops, characterizing the strains has important economic consequences. In this study, comparisons were made of the intron sequences from the triose‐phosphate isomerase (Tpi) gene isolated from 85 fall armyworm specimens collected from two host plants. Sixteen new strain‐specific haplotypes based on intron polymorphisms are described that can facilitate the characterization of fall armyworm populations associated with different host plants. Comparisons of genetic diversity within and between the strains provides evidence that the corn strain is undergoing active selection and supports the proposal of directional interstrain mating occurring in the wild. Comparisons of the polymorphisms indicate that each intron undergoes different patterns of mutation that in some cases corresponds to host plant preferences. The results confirm that intron sequence comparisons are an effective approach to study fall armyworm population genetics.
Identification, characterization and functional analysis of a chitin synthase gene in the brown citrus aphid, Toxoptera citricida (Hemiptera, Aphididae)
Authors: Shang F. , Xiong Y. , Xia W.‐K. , Wei D.‐D. , Wei D. , Wang J.‐J.
Published: March 2016

Chitin synthase (CHS) is a crucial enzyme involved in the final step of the insect chitin biosynthetic pathway. In this study, we cloned the full‐length cDNA sequence of a chitin synthase gene (TCiCHS) from the brown citrus aphid, Toxoptera citricida, an important citrus pest and the main vector of citrus tristeza virus worldwide. TCiCHS was expressed during the entire lifecycle and in all insect tissues examined. Expression was highest in first–second‐instar nymphs, nymph–adult transitions and in the abdomen (6.7‐fold higher than head). Embryos had a higher expression level than the integument. Fourth‐instar nymphs were exposed to 5 and 500 mg/l concentrations of the chitin synthesis inhibitor diflubenzuron (DFB) for 48 h and had the highest mortality at the 500 mg/l concentration. The mRNA expression levels of TCiCHS were significantly enhanced upon the exposure of nymphs to both low and high DFB concentrations. Silencing of TCiCHS occurred through plant‐mediated double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) feeding. Most dsRNA‐fed nymphs were unable to moult to the next stage, and the expression of TCiCHS decreased 48% compared with controls. These results demonstrate that TCiCHS plays an important role in nymph to adult development, is possibly help identify molecular targets for To. citricida control.
Child maltreatment – prevalence and characteristics of mandatory reports from dental professionals to the social services
Authors: Kvist Therese , Cocozza Madeleine , Annerbäck Eva‐Maria , Dahllöf Göran
Published: March 2016

Background

Dental professionals are required to report suspicions of child maltreatment to the social services. As yet, no studies assess the prevalence of these mandated reports from dental care services or their content.

Aim

This study investigates the prevalence and characteristics of mandated reports from dental professionals to the social services. Furthermore, it analyses associations between dental professionals reporting suspicions of maltreatment with such reports from other sources.

Design

The study collected dental mandatory reports from within one municipality of Sweden during 2008–2014. The material consisted of a total of 147 reports by dental professionals regarding 111 children.

Results

The total prevalence of reports from dental care services to the social services was 1.5 per 1000 children with a significant increase between 2008 and 2011 (P < 0.001). The primary cause for a report concerned parental deficiencies in care (n = 93) and secondly, a concern for dental neglect (n = 52) (P < 0.001). Among all reports, 86% involved children with prior contacts with the social services.

Conclusion

Reports to the social services from dental care services on suspicions of child maltreatment concern parental deficiencies (failure to attend appointments) and neglect (dental neglect). Mandated reports from dental care services often co‐occur with other mandated reports.
Additive Manufacturing of SiCN Ceramic Matrix for SiC Fiber Composites by Flash Pyrolysis of Nanoscale Polymer Films
Authors: Azarnoush Setareh , Laubscher Franli , Zoli Luca , Raj Rishi
Published: March 2016

The potential of polymer‐derived ceramic matrices for silicon‐carbide fiber composites is demonstrated by additive layering of thin films on SiC fiber bundles. The thin liquid films, which naturally wet the fiber surfaces, are cross‐linked and pyrolyzed in‐situ into the silicon carbonitride ceramic in just a few seconds to yield defect‐free layers that are 10 to 100 nm thick. The infiltration is completed by repeating the cycles. A nearly fully dense and defect free SiCN matrix could be obtained. Room‐temperature tensile tests show a tensile strength of ~1200 MPa. Good matrix‐fiber interface behavior is seen with pull‐out character which is most likely responsible for the apparent ductility. The SiC fibers were uncoated.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Consolidation of Cr2(C,N) Solid Solution Powders
Authors: Ma Shiqing , Ye Jinwen , Liu Anrui , Liu Ying , Wang Jie , Pang Jia
Published: March 2016

Single‐phase Cr2(C,N) powders, which are mainly composed of large worm‐like particles with the diameter of 1–3 μm, have been successfully synthesized by carbothermal reduction nitridation (CRN) method at 1200°C for 1 h in N2 atmosphere for the first time. The phase evolution and morphology were investigated using XRD, TG‐DSC, SEM, and TEM techniques. The reactions during the synthesis process were proposed and analyzed. The surface of Cr2(C,N) determined by XPS is mainly composed of four elements, Cr, N, C, and O. Furthermore, the attempts to consolidate Cr2(C,N) powders were carried out using spark plasma sintering (SPS), and the fully densified bulk ceramics were obtained at 1200°C. The effect of sintering temperature on phase composition and mechanical properties were also discussed.
Wearable monitors for patients following discharge from an intensive care unit: practical lessons learnt from an observational study
Authors: Jeffs Emma , Vollam Sarah , Young J. Duncan , Horsington Lois , Lynch Breda , Watkinson Peter J.
Published: March 2016

Aims

To identify the practical challenges encountered when using wearable monitors for patients discharged from the intensive care unit.

Background

Patients discharged from intensive care units are a high‐risk group that might benefit from continuing observation using ‘wearable’ monitors to enable faster identification of physiological deterioration and facilitate timely clinical action. This area of technological innovation is of key interest to nurses who manage this group of patients.

Design

A prospective observational study.

Methods

An observational study conducted in 2013–2014 used wearable monitors to record continuous observations for patients discharged from an intensive care unit to develop a predictive model of patients likely to deteriorate. Screening data for study eligibility and case report form data to assess monitor tolerance and comfort were collected daily and analysed using Microsoft Access.

Results/findings

Patients (n = 2704) were discharged from an intensive care unit during the study, 208 consented to wearing the monitor. Of the 192 included in analysis, 130 (67·7%) removed the monitor before the trial finished. Reasons cited for removal included ‘discomfort and irritation’ 61 (31·8%) and ‘feeling too unwell’ 8 (4·2%). Five hundred seventeen patients were screened following adaption of the wearable monitor. Despite design changes, 56 (10·8%) patients were unable to wear monitors for reasons related to their anatomy or condition. Of 124 patients, 65 patients (52·4%) who were approached refused participation.

Conclusion

Work is needed to understand wireless monitor comfort and design for acutely unwell patients. Product design needs to develop further, so patients are catered for in flexibility of monitor placement and improved comfort for long‐term wear.
A MOOC based on blended pedagogy
Authors: Rayyan S. , Fredericks C. , Colvin K.F. , Liu A. , Teodorescu R. , Barrantes A. , Pawl A. , Seaton D.T. , Pritchard D.E.
Published: March 2016

We describe three iterations of a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) developed from online preparation materials for a reformed introductory physics classroom at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, in which the teaching staff interact with small groups of students doing problems using an expert problem‐solving pedagogy. The MOOC contains an e‐text, simple checkpoint problems and homework. We show how certain course design aspects affect student behaviour: (a) frequent quizzes correlated with students reading a large fraction of the e‐text, and (b) When homework sets are arranged by increasing (instructor‐estimated) difficulty, we found strong correlations between difficulty and time to solution, but weak correlations with percent correct. Modifications to the second offering of the course resulted in higher retention. These modifications included targeting physics teachers and posting materials well in advance. We define retention as certificates earned relative to participants who make a significant effort on the second assignment. Retention measured this way varied between 44% and 72%, being highest in the course aimed at teachers. We show that there is significant learning among MOOC participants. Applying item response theory to common homework problems showed that the MOOC participants had significantly higher ability than students in a Massachusetts Institute of Technology course and that they maintained this advantage over the duration of the MOOC.
The MOOC and learning analytics innovation cycle (MOLAC): a reflective summary of ongoing research and its challenges
Authors: Drachsler H. , Kalz M.
Published: March 2016

The article deals with the interplay between learning analytics and massive open online courses (MOOCs) and provides a conceptual framework to situate ongoing research in the MOOC and learning analytics innovation cycle (MOLAC framework). The MOLAC framework is organized on three levels: On the micro‐level, the data collection and analytics activities are focused on individual reflection and individual prediction. On the meso‐level, data from several open courses are combined to support benchmarking and to create insights about behaviour of groups of learners rather than the individual. These insights can inform the institution to adapt their educational model. On the macro‐level of the framework, cross‐institutional learning analytics enables to develop learning and teaching interventions that can be tested in a cluster of educational organizations to analyse the impact of these interventions beyond contextual factors. The article proposes four areas of future activities that are needed to enable the MOLAC framework. These are the standardization of the description of the educational design of MOOCs, data sharing facilities across institutions, joint policymaking and ethical guidelines and last but not least standardized evaluation approaches.
Twenty‐Four–Hour Urine α1‐Microglobulin as a Marker of Hypertension‐Induced Renal Impairment and Its Response on Different Blood Pressure–Lowering Drugs
Authors: Liakos Charalampos I. , Vyssoulis Gregory P. , Markou Maria I. , Kafkas Nikolaos V. , Toutouzas Konstantinos P. , Tousoulis Dimitrios
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this study was to assess the role of urine α1‐microglobulin as a marker of hypertension‐induced renal damage compared with estimated glomerular filtration rate, (eGFR), urine albumin, and urine albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio (ACR). Its response on different blood pressure (BP)–lowering drugs was also studied. Sixty never‐treated hypertensive patients (65.0% men, 46.9 years, BP 141.4/94.0 mm Hg) were randomized to an irbesartan (an angiotensin receptor blocker [ARB]) or a diltiazem (a nondihydropyridine calcium channel blocker [CCB])‐based regimen. Patients with diabetes or established cardiovascular, renal, or liver disease were excluded. Blood samples and 24‐hour urine were analyzed at baseline and 6 months after pharmaceutical BP normalization. Serum creatinine was measured and eGFR was calculated. Urine albumin, creatinine, and α1‐microglobulin were measured and ACR was calculated. Minor changes (P=not significant [NS]) in eGFR were noted during follow‐up in both groups (from 111.0 mL/min/1.73 m2 to 108.4 mL/min/1.73 m2 in the ARB group and from 111.3 mL/min/1.73 m2 to 114.0 mL/min/1.73 m2 in the CCB group). Twenty‐four–hour urine indices were all significantly improved (P<.01) in the ARB group (albumin from 19.4 mg/L to 8.2 mg/L, ACR from 21.5 mg/g to 10.0 mg/g, α1‐microglobulin from 5.06 mg/L to 3.64 mg/L) but not (P=NS) in the CCB group (albumin from 15.6 mg/L to 13.9 mg/L, ACR from 17.6 mg/g to 17.1 mg/g, α1‐microglobulin from 4.94 mg/L to 4.79 mg/L). These differences between groups remained significant (P<.05) after adjusting for office heart rate and BP. α1‐Microglobulin was significantly correlated (P<.05) with albumin and ACR both at baseline (r=0.283 and 0.299, respectively) and at the end of follow‐up (r=0.432 and 0.465, respectively) but not (P=NS) with eGFR. It was also significantly related (P<.05) to cardiovascular risk scores (Framingham and HeartScore) both at baseline (r=0.264 and 0.436, respectively) and at the end of follow‐up (r=0.308 and 0.472, respectively). Urine α1‐microglobulin emerges as a potentially usable marker of hypertension‐induced renal impairment. Its excretion rate and its response to treatment appears similar to that of albumin. Irbesartan but not diltiazem seems to be associated with reduced excretion of α1‐microglobulin in urine.