bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oral health of schoolchildren in Western Australia
Authors: Arrow P
Published: August 2015

Background

The West Australian School Dental Service (SDS) provides free, statewide, primary dental care to schoolchildren aged 5–17 years. This study reports on an evaluation of the oral health of children examined during the 2014 calendar year.

Methods

Children were sampled, based on their date of birth, and SDS clinicians collected the clinical information. Weighted mean values of caries experience were presented. Negative binomial regression modelling was undertaken to test for factors of significance in the rate of caries occurrence.

Results

Data from children aged 5–15 years were used (girls = 4616, boys = 4900). Mean dmft (5–10‐year‐olds), 1.42 SE 0.03; mean DMFT (6–15‐year‐olds), 0.51 SE 0.01. Negative binomial regression model of permanent tooth caries found higher rates of caries in children who were from non‐fluoridated areas (RR 2.1); Aboriginal (RR 2.4); had gingival inflammation (RR 1.5); lower ICSEA level (RR 1.4); and recalled at more than 24‐month interval (RR 1.8).

Conclusions

The study highlighted poor dental health associated with living in non‐fluoridated areas, Aboriginal identity, poor oral hygiene, lower socioeconomic level and having extended intervals between dental checkups. Timely assessments and preventive measures targeted at groups, including extending community water fluoridation, may assist in further improving the oral health of children in Western Australia.
Job satisfaction among ‘migrant dentists’ in Australia: implications for dentist migration and workforce policy
Authors: Balasubramanian M , Spencer AJ , Short SD , Watkins K , Chrisopoulos S , Brennan DS
Published: August 2015

Background

Migrants occupy a significant proportion of the dental workforce in Australia. The objectives of this study were to assess the level of job satisfaction of employed migrant dentists in Australia, and to examine the association between various migrant dentist characteristics and job satisfaction.

Methods

All migrant dentists resident in Australia were surveyed using a five‐point Likert scale that measured specific aspects of job, career and satisfaction with area and type of practice.

Results

A total of 1022 migrant dentists responded to this study; 974 (95.4%) were employed. Responses for all scales were skewed towards strongly agree (scores ≥4). The overall scale varied by age group, marital status, years since arrival to Australia and specialist qualification (chi‐square, p < 0.05). In a multivariate logistic regression model, there was a trend towards greater satisfaction amongst older age groups. Dentists who migrated through the examination pathway (mainly from low‐ and middle‐income countries) had a lower probability of being satisfied with the area and type of practice (OR = 0.71; 0.51–0.98), compared with direct‐entry migrant dentists (from high‐income countries).

Conclusions

The high level of job satisfaction of migrant dentists reflects well on their work‐related experiences in Australia. The study offers policy suggestions towards support for younger dentists and examination pathway migrants, so they have appropriate skills and standards to fit the Australian health care environment.
Maternal nutrition during pregnancy and risk of asthma, wheeze, and atopic diseases during childhood: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Beckhaus A. A. , Garcia‐Marcos L. , Forno E. , Pacheco‐Gonzalez R. M. , Celedón J. C. , Castro‐Rodriguez J. A.
Published: August 2015

Background

Epidemiologic studies suggest a relationship between maternal nutrition during pregnancy and the occurrence of asthma and atopic conditions during childhood. However, individual study results are conflicting. The objective of this meta‐analysis was to critically examine the current evidence for an association between nutrition (dietary patterns, food groups, vitamins, or oligo‐elements) ingestion during pregnancy and asthma, wheeze, or atopic conditions in childhood.

Methods

The inclusion criteria were as follows: (i) systematic recording of diet during the gestational period and (ii) documentation of asthma, wheezing, eczema, or other atopic disease in the offspring. The primary outcomes were prevalence of asthma or wheeze among the offspring during childhood; and secondary outcomes were prevalence of eczema, allergic rhinitis, or other atopic conditions.

Results

We found 120 titles, abstracts, and citations, and 32 studies (29 cohorts) were included in this analysis. Data on vitamins, oligo‐elements, food groups, and dietary patterns during pregnancy were collected. A meta‐analysis revealed that higher maternal intake of vitamin D [odds ratio (OR) = 0.58, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.38–0.88], vitamin E (OR = 0.6, 95% CI = 0.46–0.78), and zinc (OR = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.40–0.97) was associated with lower odds of wheeze during childhood. However, none of these or other nutrients was consistently associated with asthma per se or other atopic conditions.

Conclusions

Current evidence suggests a protective effect of maternal intake of each of three vitamins or nutrients (vitamin D, vitamin E, and zinc) against childhood wheeze but is inconclusive for an effect on asthma or other atopic conditions.
ADAM10 mediates the house dust mite‐induced release of chemokine ligand CCL20 by airway epithelium
Authors: Post S. , Rozeveld D. , Jonker M. R , Bischoff R. , van Oosterhout A. J. , Heijink I. H.
Published: August 2015

Background

House dust mite (HDM) acts on the airway epithelium to induce airway inflammation in asthma. We previously showed that the ability of HDM to induce allergic sensitization in mice is related to airway epithelial CCL20 secretion.

Objective

As a disintegrin and metalloprotease (ADAM)s have been implicated in chemokine shedding, we sought to determine their involvement in HDM‐induced release of chemokines, including CCL20, by airway epithelial cells.

Methods

We studied the effects of pharmacological ADAM inhibitors as well as ADAM10 and ADAM17 siRNA downregulation on chemokine release using (multiplex) ELISA in supernatants from HDM‐exposed human bronchial epithelial 16HBE cells and primary normal human bronchial epithelial cells (NHBE) at 4–24 h.

Results

House dust) mite markedly increased CCL20 levels in both 16HBE and NHBE cells (16–24 h). In 16HBE cells, the HDM‐induced increase was observed as early as 4 h upon exposure and the use of specific inhibitors indicated the involvement of ADAM10/17‐mediated shedding. siRNA knockdown of ADAM10, but not of ADAM17, significantly reduced the HDM‐induced release of CCL20 in both 16HBE and NHBE cells. A similar effect was observed for HDM‐induced CCL2, CCL5, and CXCL8 release in NHBE cells. The HDM‐induced increase in CCL20 levels was not affected by protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide nor protein transport inhibitor monensin, indicating that HDM induces surface shedding of chemokines.

Conclusion

Our data show for the first time that ADAM10 activity contributes to HDM‐induced shedding of chemokines, including CCL20. The ADAM10/CCL20 axis may be a target for novel therapeutic strategies in asthma.
Antihypertensive and cardioprotective effects of the dipeptide isoleucine–tryptophan and whey protein hydrolysate
Authors: Martin M. , Kopaliani I. , Jannasch A. , Mund C. , Todorov V. , Henle T. , Deussen A.
Published: August 2015

Aims

Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors are treatment of choice in hypertensive patients. Clinically used inhibitors exhibit a structural similarity to naturally occurring peptides. This study evaluated antihypertensive and cardioprotective effects of ACE‐inhibiting peptides derived from food proteins in spontaneously hypertensive rats.

Methods and Results

Isoleucine–tryptophan (in vitro IC50 for ACE = 0.7 μm), a whey protein hydrolysate containing an augmented fraction of isoleucine–tryptophan, or captopril was given to spontaneously hypertensive rats (n = 60) over 14 weeks. Two further groups, receiving either no supplement (Placebo) or intact whey protein, served as controls. Systolic blood pressure age‐dependently increased in the Placebo group, whereas the blood pressure rise was effectively blunted by isoleucine–tryptophan, whey protein hydrolysate and captopril (−42 ± 3, −38 ± 5, −55 ± 4 mm Hg vs. Placebo). At study end, myocardial mass was lower in isoleucine–tryptophan and captopril groups but only partially in the hydrolysate group. Coronary flow reserve (1 μm adenosine) was improved in isoleucine–tryptophan and captopril groups. Plasma ACE activity was significantly decreased in isoleucine–tryptophan, hydrolysate and captopril groups, but in aortic tissue only after isoleucine–tryptophan or captopril treatment. This was associated with lowered expression and activity of matrix metalloproteinase‐2. Following isoleucine–tryptophan and captopril treatments, gene expression of renin was significantly increased indicating an active feedback within renin–angiotensin system.

Conclusion

Whey protein hydrolysate and isoleucine–tryptophan powerfully inhibit plasma ACE resulting in antihypertensive effects. Moreover, isoleucine–tryptophan blunts tissue ACE activity, reduces matrix metalloproteinase‐2 activity and improves coronary flow reserve. Thus, whey protein hydrolysate and particularly isoleucine–tryptophan may serve as innovative food additives with the goal of attenuating hypertension.
Child Rights Practice among the Indigenous Communities in Bangladesh
Authors: Islam M. Rezaul , Nath Bhabatash , Cojocaru Stefan , Islam Md. Rabiul
Published: August 2015

The objective of this article was to explore the practice of child rights among the indigenous communities of Bangladesh. We used a mixed method approach to collect data from four ethnic communities in the Bandarban District of the Chittagong Division in Bangladesh. We questioned children, parents, community members, local leaders, and service providers of those communities on a number of child rights issues, for example, child education, child labor, child recreation and culture, parents' guidance to children for capacity development, and access to child rights at home and in the community according to Convention on the Rights of the Child treaty. The results showed that while the community was aware of child rights, financial vulnerability and a lack of social support meant that these rights could not be upheld in practice. The paper urges improvement of social support, including income generation activities for indigenous communities.
Alkali replacement raises urinary citrate excretion in patients with topiramate‐induced hypocitraturia
Authors: Allan Jhagroo R. , Wertheim Margaret L. , Penniston Kristina L.
Published: August 2015

Aims

The aims of this study were to assess (1) the magnitude and temporality of decreased urinary citrate excretion in patients just starting topiramate and (2) the effect of alkali replacement on topiramate‐induced hypocitraturia.

Methods

Study 1 was a prospective, non‐intervention study in which patients starting topiramate for headache remediation provided pre‐ and post‐topiramate 24 h urine collections for measurement of urine citrate. Study 2 was a clinical comparative effectiveness study in which patients reporting to our stone clinic for kidney stones and who were treated with topiramate were prescribed alkali therapy. Pre‐ and post‐alkali 24 h urinary citrate excretion was compared.

Results

Data for 12 and 22 patients (studies 1 and 2 respectively) were evaluated. After starting topiramate, urinary citrate excretion dropped significantly by 30 days (P = 0.016) and 62% of patients had hypocitraturia (citrate <320 mg day–1). At 60 days, urine citrate was even lower than at baseline (P = 0.0032) and 86% of patients had developed hypocitraturia. After starting alkali, urine citrate increased in stone‐forming patients on topiramate (198 ± 120 to 408 ± 274 mg day–1; P = 0.042 for difference). 85% of patients were hypocitraturic on topiramate alone vs. 40% after adding alkali. The increase in urinary citrate was greater in patients provided ≥90 mEq potassium citrate.

Conclusions

Our study is the first to provide clinical evidence that alkali therapy can raise urinary citrate excretion in patients who form kidney stones while being treated with topiramate. Clinicians should consider alkali therapy for reducing the kidney stone risk of patients benefitting from topiramate treatment for migraine headaches or other conditions.
Detection of Patients at High Risk of Medication Errors: Development and Validation of an Algorithm
Authors: Saedder Eva Aggerholm , Lisby Marianne , Nielsen Lars Peter , Rungby Jørgen , Andersen Ljubica Vukelic , Bonnerup Dorthe Krogsgaard , Brock Birgitte
Published: August 2015

Medication errors (MEs) are preventable and can result in patient harm and increased expenses in the healthcare system in terms of hospitalization, prolonged hospitalizations and even death. We aimed to develop a screening tool to detect acutely admitted patients at low or high risk of MEs comprised by items found by literature search and the use of theoretical weighting. Predictive variables used for the development of the risk score were found by the literature search. Three retrospective patient populations and one prospective pilot population were used for modelling. The final risk score was evaluated for precision by the use of sensitivity, specificity and area under the ROC (receiver operating characteristic) curves. The variables used in the final risk score were reduced renal function, the total number of drugs and the risk of individual drugs to cause harm and drug–drug interactions. We found a risk score in the prospective population with an area under the ROC curve of 0.76. The final risk score was found to be quite robust as it showed an area under the ROC curve of 0.87 in a recent patient population, 0.74 in a population of internal medicine and 0.66 in an orthopaedic population. We developed a simple and robust score, MERIS, with the ability to detect patients and divide them according to low and high risk of MEs in a general population admitted at acute admissions unit. The accuracy of the risk score was at least as good as other models reported using multiple regression analysis.
Transforming growth factor‐β signaling enhancement by long‐term exposure to hypoxia in a tumor microenvironment composed of Lewis lung carcinoma cells
Authors: Furuta Chiaki , Miyamoto Tatsuki , Takagi Takahiro , Noguchi Yuri , Kaneko Jyunya , Itoh Susumu , Watanabe Takuya , Itoh Fumiko
Published: August 2015

Transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) is a potent growth inhibitor in normal epithelial cells. However, a number of malignant tumors produce excessive amounts of TGF‐β, which affects the tumor‐associated microenvironment by furthering the progression of tumorigenicity. Although it is known that the tumor‐associated microenvironment often becomes hypoxic, how hypoxia influences TGF‐β signaling in this microenvironment is unknown. We investigated whether TGF‐β signaling is influenced by long‐term exposure to hypoxia in Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells. When the cells were exposed to hypoxia for more than 10 days, their morphology was remarkably changed to a spindle shape, and TGF‐β‐induced Smad2 phosphorylation was enhanced. Concomitantly, TGF‐β‐induced transcriptional activity was augmented under hypoxia, although TGF‐β did not influence the activity of a hypoxia‐responsive reporter. Consistently, hypoxia influenced the expression of several TGF‐β target genes. Interestingly, the expressions of TGF‐β type I receptor (TβRI), also termed activin receptor like kinase‐5 (ALK5), and TGF‐β1 were increased under the hypoxic condition. When we monitored the hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1 (HIF‐1) transcriptional activity by use of green fluorescent protein governed by the hypoxia‐responsive element in LLC cells transplanted into mice, TGF‐β‐induced Smad2 phosphorylation was upregulated in vivo. Our results demonstrate that long‐term exposure to hypoxia might alter responsiveness to TGF‐β signaling and affected the malignancy of LLC cells.
Practice‐based Research Network Research Good Practices (PRGPs): Summary of Recommendations
Authors: Dolor Rowena J. , Campbell‐Voytal Kimberly , Daly Jeanette , Nagykaldi Zsolt J. , O'Beirne Maeve , Sterling Pamela , Fagnan Lyle J. , Levy Barcey , Michaels LeAnn , Louks Hannah A. , Smith Paul , Aspy Cheryl B. , Patterson V. Beth , Kano Miria , Sussman Andrew L. , Williams Robert , Neale Anne Victoria
Published: August 2015

Introduction

Practice‐based research networks (PBRNs) conduct research in community settings, which poses quality control challenges to the integrity of research, such as study implementation and data collection. A foundation for improving research processes within PBRNs is needed to ensure research integrity.

Methods

Network directors and coordinators from seven U.S.‐based PBRNs worked with a professional team facilitator during semiannual in‐person meetings and monthly conference calls to produce content for a compendium of recommended research practices specific to the context of PBRNs. Participants were assigned to contribute content congruent with their expertise. Feedback on the draft document was obtained from attendees at the preconference workshop at the annual PBRN meeting in 2013. A revised document was circulated to additional PBRN peers prior to finalization.

Results

The PBRN Research Good Practices (PRGPs) document is organized into four chapters: (1) Building PBRN Infrastructure; (2) Study Development and Implementation; (3) Data Management, and (4) Dissemination Policies. Each chapter contains an introduction, detailed procedures for each section, and example resources with information links.

Conclusion

The PRGPs is a PBRN‐specific resource to facilitate PBRN management and staff training, to promote adherence to study protocols, and to increase validity and generalizability of study findings.
The postcentral sulcal complex and the transverse postcentral sulcus and their relation to sensorimotor functional organization
Authors: Zlatkina Veronika , Amiez Céline , Petrides Michael
Published: August 2015

It has been demonstrated that the postcentral sulcus, which forms the posterior boundary of the sensorimotor region, is a complex of distinct sulcal segments. Although the general somatotopic arrangement in the human sensorimotor cortex is relatively well known, we do not know whether the different segments of the postcentral sulcus relate in a systematic way to the sensorimotor functional representations. Participants were scanned with functional magnetic resonance imaging while they made movements of different body parts and the location of functional activity was examined on a subject‐by‐subject basis with respect to the morphological features of the postcentral sulcus. The findings demonstrate that the postcentral sulcus of each subject may be divided into five segments and there is a tight relationship between sensorimotor representations of different body parts and specific segments of the postcentral sulcus. The results also addressed the issue of the transverse postcentral sulcus, a short sulcus that is present within the ventral part of the postcentral gyrus in some brains. It was shown that, when present, this sulcus is functionally related to the oral (mouth and tongue) sensorimotor representation. When this sulcus is not present, the inferior postcentral sulcus which is also related to the oral representation is longer. Thus, the sulcal morphology provides an improved framework for functional assignments in individual subjects.
mTORC1 and mTORC2 have largely distinct functions in Purkinje cells
Authors: Angliker Nico , Burri Michael , Zaichuk Mariana , Fritschy Jean‐Marc , Rüegg Markus A.
Published: August 2015

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a key regulator of cellular growth which associates with other proteins to form two multi‐protein complexes called mTORC1 and mTORC2. Dysregulation of mTORC1 signalling in brain is implicated in neuropathological conditions such as autism spectrum or neurodegenerative disorders. Accordingly, allosteric mTOR inhibitors are currently in clinical trials for the treatment of such disorders. Here, we ablated either mTORC1 or mTORC2 conditionally in Purkinje cells of the mouse cerebellum to dissect their role in the development, function and survival of these neurons. We find that the two mouse models largely differ from each other by phenotype and cellular responses. Inactivation of mTORC2, but not of mTORC1, led to motor coordination deficits at an early age. This phenotype correlated with developmental deficits in climbing fibre elimination and impaired dendritic self‐avoidance in mTORC2‐deficient Purkinje cells. In contrast, inactivation of mTORC1, but not of mTORC2, affected social interest of the mice and caused a progressive loss of Purkinje cells due to apoptosis. This cell loss was paralleled by age‐dependent motor deficits. Comparison of mTORC1‐deficient Purkinje cells with those deficient for the mTORC1 inhibitor TSC1 revealed a striking overlap in Purkinje cell degeneration and death, which included neurofilamentopathy and reactive gliosis. Altogether, our study reveals distinct roles of mTORC1 and mTORC2 in Purkinje cells for mouse behaviour and the survival of neurons. Our study also highlights a convergence between the phenotypes of Purkinje cells lacking mTORC1 activity and those expressing constitutively active mTORC1 due to TSC1 deficiency.
Pre‐differentiation of mesenchymal stromal cells in combination with a microstructured nerve guide supports peripheral nerve regeneration in the rat sciatic nerve model
Authors: Boecker Arne Hendrik , van Neerven Sabien Geraldine Antonia , Scheffel Juliane , Tank Julian , Altinova Haktan , Seidensticker Katrin , Deumens Ronald , Tolba Rene , Weis Joachim , Brook Gary Anthony , Pallua Norbert , Bozkurt Ahmet
Published: August 2015

Many bioartificial nerve guides have been investigated pre‐clinically for their nerve regeneration‐supporting function, often in comparison to autologous nerve transplantation, which is still regarded as the current clinical gold standard. Enrichment of these scaffolds with cells intended to support axonal regeneration has been explored as a strategy to boost axonal regeneration across these nerve guides Ansselin et al. (1998). In the present study, 20 mm rat sciatic nerve defects were implanted with a cell‐seeded microstructured collagen nerve guide (Perimaix) or an autologous nerve graft. Under the influence of seeded, pre‐differentiated mesenchymal stromal cells, axons regenerated well into the Perimaix nerve guide. Myelination‐related parameters, like myelin sheath thickness, benefitted from an additional seeding with pre‐differentiated mesenchymal stromal cells. Furthermore, both the number of retrogradely labelled sensory neurons and the axon density within the implant were elevated in the cell‐seeded scaffold group with pre‐differentiated mesenchymal stromal cells. However, a pre‐differentiation had no influence on functional recovery. An additional cell seeding of the Perimaix nerve guide with mesenchymal stromal cells led to an extent of functional recovery, independent of the differentiation status, similar to autologous nerve transplantation. These findings encourage further investigations on pre‐differentiated mesenchymal stromal cells as a cellular support for peripheral nerve regeneration.
Dentin tubule invasion by Enterococcus faecalis under stress conditions ex vivo
Authors: Ran Shujun , Gu Shensheng , Wang Jia , Zhu Cailian , Liang Jingping
Published: August 2015

Enterococcus faecalis is the species most frequently isolated from failed endodontic treatments because it can survive under stress conditions imposed by root canal treatment. The objective of this study was to determine the ability of E. faecalis to invade dentine tubules under alkaline and energy‐starvation stress and to explore the potential mechanisms. Roots from single‐rooted human teeth were infected with E. faecalis under alkaline and energy‐starvation stress conditions. After 4 wk of culture, samples were processed to establish the tubule‐penetration distance. In addition, the hydrophobicity of E. faecalis cells under these conditions was analysed and the expression of genes involved in adhesion was quantified by real‐time quantitative PCR. Culture of E. faecalis under alkaline and energy‐starvation stress conditions resulted in a marked reduction of tubule‐penetration distance, a significant increase in hydrophobicity of the bacterial surface, and marked down‐regulation of most adhesin genes compared with E. faecalis cultured in tryptic soy broth. The results indicate that the dentine tubule invasion ability of E. faecalis was markedly decreased under alkaline and glucose‐starvation stress conditions, possibly because of the increase of hydrophobicity and down‐regulation of some adhesion genes.
Risk factors for postoperative depression: A retrospective analysis of 248 subjects operated on for drug‐resistant epilepsy
Authors: Barbieri Valentina , Cardinale Francesco , Gozzo Francesca , Pelliccia Veronica , Nobili Lino , Casaceli Giuseppe , Fuschillo Dalila , Castana Laura , Cossu Massimo , Lo Russo Giorgio , Tassi Laura , Gambini Orsola
Published: August 2015

The aim of this retrospective case series analysis was to identify the predictors of postoperative depression (PostOp‐D) in a sample of 248 subjects with focal drug‐resistant focal epilepsy. The presence or absence of PostOp‐D during a 12‐month follow‐up period was the outcome variable. Demographic, neurologic, psychiatric characteristics, and antiepileptic therapy were the explanatory variables. After preliminary bivariate analysis, a multivariate logistic regression model was fitted to identify variables associated with PostOp‐D. Sixty‐seven patients (27%) experienced PostOp‐D. At multivariate analysis, lifetime depression, age at surgery, and levetiracetam (LEV) are positive predictors of PostOp‐D; carbamazepine (CBZ) and anxiety disorders are protective factors. LEV increases the risk for PostOp‐D by about half; the relative risk (RR) is 1.48. Conversely, CBZ decreases the risk for PostOp‐D by about half (RR 0.59). Our results suggest that careful psychiatric evaluation and follow‐up should be recommended for subjects at risk. It is advisable to treat patients with depression before surgery. Antiepileptic drugs should be selected carefully when patients present with not modifiable risk factors, such as positive personal history for depression.
Exotic grasses and nitrate enrichment alter soil carbon cycling along an urban–rural tropical forest gradient
Authors: Cusack Daniela F. , Lee Joseph K. , McCleery Taylor L. , LeCroy Chase S.
Published: August 2015

Urban areas are expanding rapidly in tropical regions, with potential to alter ecosystem dynamics. In particular, exotic grasses and atmospheric nitrogen (N) deposition simultaneously affect tropical urbanized landscapes, with unknown effects on properties like soil carbon (C) storage. We hypothesized that (H1) soil nitrate (NO3−) is elevated nearer to the urban core, reflecting N deposition gradients. (H2) Exotic grasslands have elevated soil NO3− and decreased soil C relative to secondary forests, with higher N promoting decomposer activity. (H3) Exotic grasslands have greater seasonality in soil NO3− vs. secondary forests, due to higher sensitivity of grassland soil moisture to rainfall. We predicted that NO3− would be positively related to dissolved organic C (DOC) production via changes in decomposer activity. We measured six paired grassland/secondary forest sites along a tropical urban‐to‐rural gradient during the three dominant seasons (hurricane, dry, and early wet). We found that (1) soil NO3− was generally elevated nearer to the urban core, with particularly clear spatial trends for grasslands. (2) Exotic grasslands had lower soil C than secondary forests, which was related to elevated decomposer enzyme activities and soil respiration. Unexpectedly, soil NO3− was negatively related to enzyme activities, and was lower in grasslands than forests. (3) Grasslands had greater soil NO3− seasonality vs. forests, but this was not strongly linked to shifts in soil moisture or DOC. Our results suggest that exotic grasses in tropical regions are likely to drastically reduce soil C storage, but that N deposition may have an opposite effect via suppression of enzyme activities. However, soil NO3− accumulation here was higher in urban forests than grasslands, potentially related to of aboveground N interception. Net urban effects on C storage across tropical landscapes will likely vary depending on the mosaic of grass cover, rates of N deposition, and responses by local decomposer communities.
Reactivation of hepatitis B virus during interferon‐free therapy with daclatasvir and asunaprevir in patient with hepatitis B virus/hepatitis C virus co‐infection
Authors: Takayama Hiroki , Sato Takeshi , Ikeda Fusao , Fujiki Shigeatsu
Published: August 2015

Direct‐acting antiviral agents (DAA) for hepatitis C virus (HCV) are not effective for hepatitis B virus (HBV), which may be suggestive of reactivation of anti‐HBe hepatitis during interferon (IFN)‐free DAA therapy in HBV/HCV co‐infected patients with inactive HBV. A 69‐year‐old male patient was diagnosed with chronic hepatitis due to HBV/HCV co‐infection with serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) of 94 U/L, HCV RNA of 4.2 log IU/mL and HBV DNA of 2.5 log copies/mL. HCV was thought to be responsible for the hepatitis activity because of low level of HBV core‐related antigen (3.1 log U/mL). He was treated with combination therapy of daclatasvir and asunaprevir. Serum ALT gradually increased, and reached 237 U/L on day 43 in spite of undetectable HCV RNA. Serum HBV DNA was increasing to 7.0 log copies/mL at that time. The treatment was stopped due to suspicion of drug‐induced liver injury and/or HBV reactivation. Administration of entecavir reduced HBV DNA levels, followed by improvement in ALT levels. This report proposes that close monitoring of HBV DNA during the anti‐HCV DAA therapy and the commencement of anti‐HBV therapy with nucleoside analogs after the increase of HBV DNA should be considered in patients with HBV/HCV co‐infection.
Detrusor after‐contraction on ambulatory urodynamics in symptomatic women
Authors: Veeratterapillay Rajan , Coates James , Leonard Ann , Pickard Robert , Drinnan Michael , Harding Chris
Published: August 2015

Objectives

To investigate the association between detrusor after‐contraction and urodynamic parameters in a cohort of patients undergoing urodynamic studies by ambulatory monitoring.

Methods

All symptomatic adult female patients with non‐neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction having ambulatory monitoring over the period January 1998 to January 2014 were included. Urodynamic traces were reviewed to identify detrusor after‐contraction. Measured urodynamic variables were Qmax (mL/s), Vvoid (mL) and Pdet.Qmax (cmH2O). Student's unpaired t‐test was used to compare the mean of the variable in the detrusor after‐contraction and non‐detrusor after‐contraction groups.

Results

We identified 331 women with a median age of 50 years (range 16–82). Detrusor after‐contraction was seen after at least one void in 122 patients giving a prevalence of 37%. A total of 167 (51%) patients had detrusor overactivity. Diagnosis of detrusor overactivity was associated with the presence of detrusor after‐contraction (P < 0.05). Overall, patients with detrusor after‐contraction had a statistically higher mean Pdet.Qmax (32 vs 28 cmH2O, P = 0.04) and lower mean voided volume (300 vs 378 mL, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

These findings suggest a relatively high prevalence of detrusor after‐contraction during ambulatory monitoring, and an association between detrusor overactivity, Vvoid, Pdet.Qmax and detrusor after‐contraction recorded during ambulatory monitoring. Therefore, a link between detrusor after‐contractions and the syndrome of overactive bladder can be postulated.
Prediction of root coverage for single recessions in anterior teeth: a 6‐month study
Authors: Ozcelik Onur , Seydaoglu Gulsah , Haytac M. Cenk
Published: August 2015

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive values of baseline inter‐dental papilla height (IPH), loss of inter‐dental papilla height (LPH), avascular exposed root surface area (AERSA) and inter‐dental clinical attachment level (ICAL) measurements on complete root coverage (CRC) of single recession defects treated with coronally advanced flap and connective tissue graft technique (CAF+CTG).

Material & Methods

A total of 122 patients with one isolated gingival recession were enrolled. All recession defects without loss of ICAL (ID‐CAL) (RT1) and with an amount of ID‐CAL equal or smaller to the buccal attachment loss (RT2), located at upper and lower anterior teeth were treated with CAF+CTG. IPH, LPH, AERSA and ICAL parameters were analysed for possible correlation with CRC after 6 months.

Results

The CRC was 86.7% for RT1, 74.2% for RT2 groups. The ROC analyses revealed acceptable cut‐off points for baseline AERSA, IPH and LPH for achieving CRC. The results of logistic regression analyses showed that having baseline AERSA≥19 mm2 (OR:23.7), IPH lower ≤1 mm (OR:97.3) and belonging to RT2 group (OR:15.0) were found to be independent risk factors related with not achieving final CRC.

Conclusion

This study indicates that AERSA and IPH may be used to predict the final CRC outcomes in RT1 and RT2 defects treated with CAF+CTG.
Psychological impacts from expectation of worsening conditions and obstacles to life planning are affected by glycemic control, self‐reported symptoms, and drug therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Nakao Motoyuki , Hara Yoriko , Ishihara Yoko
Published: August 2015

Introduction/Aims

It is important to reduce psychological stresses for glycemic control in diabetes. We investigated the factors affecting psychological impact, which was involved in the disease conditions in 378 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Materials and Methods

Patients’ self‐assessed symptoms and four subscales of psychological impacts on diabetes – impact from diabetes (S1), anxiety from having a chronic disease (S2), expectation of worsening conditions (S3) and obstacles to life planning (S4) – were analyzed.

Results

Significant odds ratios (ORs) were found for sex and age in S1, age and glycemic control in S2, glycemic control in S3, disease duration and glycemic control in S4, and number of symptoms in S1–S4. Scores of S1 and S2 in women were lower than those in men, and decreased age‐dependently. Significant ORs for the number of symptoms in S3 and S4 were greater than in S1 and S2. ORs increased markedly for patients under oral hypoglycemic agent therapy in S4 and insulin therapy in S1–S4 when compared with ORs for lifestyle therapy alone.

Conclusions

The psychological impact of type 2 diabetes involved a priori factors dependent on sex and aging in the subscales of current anxieties and impact, and a posteriori factors, such as disease duration, glycemic control and treatment methods, in the subscales of expectation of worsening conditions and obstacles to life planning.
Roles of lignin biosynthesis and regulatory genes in plant development
Authors: Yoon Jinmi , Choi Heebak , An Gynheung
Published: August 2015

Lignin is an important factor affecting agricultural traits, biofuel production, and the pulping industry. Most lignin biosynthesis genes and their regulatory genes are expressed mainly in the vascular bundles of stems and leaves, preferentially in tissues undergoing lignification. Other genes are poorly expressed during normal stages of development, but are strongly induced by abiotic or biotic stresses. Some are expressed in non‐lignifying tissues such as the shoot apical meristem. Alterations in lignin levels affect plant development. Suppression of lignin biosynthesis genes causes abnormal phenotypes such as collapsed xylem, bending stems, and growth retardation. The loss of expression by genes that function early in the lignin biosynthesis pathway results in more severe developmental phenotypes when compared with plants that have mutations in later genes. Defective lignin deposition is also associated with phenotypes of seed shattering or brittle culm. MYB and NAC transcriptional factors function as switches, and some homeobox proteins negatively control lignin biosynthesis genes. Ectopic deposition caused by overexpression of lignin biosynthesis genes or master switch genes induces curly leaf formation and dwarfism.
RNA silencing movement in plants
Authors: Mermigka Glykeria , Verret Frédéric , Kalantidis Kriton
Published: August 2015

Multicellular organisms, like higher plants, need to coordinate their growth and development and to cope with environmental cues. To achieve this, various signal molecules are transported between neighboring cells and distant organs to control the fate of the recipient cells and organs. RNA silencing produces cell non‐autonomous signal molecules that can move over short or long distances leading to the sequence specific silencing of a target gene in a well defined area of cells or throughout the entire plant, respectively. The nature of these signal molecules, the route of silencing spread, and the genes involved in their production, movement and reception are discussed in this review. Additionally, a short section on features of silencing spread in animal models is presented at the end of this review.
Comparison of dopamine kinetics in the larval Drosophila ventral nerve cord and protocerebrum with improved optogenetic stimulation
Authors: Privman Eve , Venton B. Jill
Published: August 2015

Dopamine release and uptake have been studied in the Drosophila larval ventral nerve cord (VNC) using optogenetics to stimulate endogenous release. However, other areas of the central nervous system remain uncharacterized. Here, we compare dopamine release in the VNC and protocerebrum of larval Drosophila. Stimulations were performed with CsChrimson, a new, improved, red light‐activated channelrhodopsin. In both regions, dopamine release was observed after only a single, 4 ms duration light pulse. Michaelis‐Menten modeling was used to understand release and uptake parameters for dopamine. The amount of dopamine released ([DA]p) on the first stimulation pulse is higher than the average [DA]p released from subsequent pulses. The initial and average amount of dopamine released per stimulation pulse is smaller in the protocerebrum than in the VNC. The average Vmax of 0.08 μM/s in the protocerebrum was significantly higher than the Vmax of 0.05 μM/s in the VNC. The average Km of 0.11 μM in the protocerebrum was not significantly different from the Km of 0.10 μM in the VNC. When the competitive dopamine transporter (DAT) inhibitor nisoxetine was applied, the Km increased significantly in both regions while Vmax stayed the same. This work demonstrates regional differences in dopamine release and uptake kinetics, indicating important variation in the amount of dopamine available for neurotransmission and neuromodulation.

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We use a new optogenetic tool, red light activated CsChrimson, to stimulate the release of dopamine in the ventral nerve cord and medial protocerebrum of the larval Drosophila central nervous system. We monitored extracellular dopamine by fast scan cyclic voltammetry and used Michaelis‐Menten modeling to probe the regulation of extracellular dopamine, discovering important similarities and differences in these two regions.
ADAM10 and BACE1 are localized to synaptic vesicles
Authors: Lundgren Jolanta L. , Ahmed Saheeb , Schedin‐Weiss Sophia , Gouras Gunnar K. , Winblad Bengt , Tjernberg Lars O. , Frykman Susanne
Published: August 2015

Synaptic degeneration and accumulation of the neurotoxic amyloid β‐peptide (Aβ) in the brain are hallmarks of Alzheimer disease. Aβ is produced by sequential cleavage of the amyloid precursor protein (APP), by the β‐secretase β‐site APP cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1) and γ‐secretase. However, Aβ generation is precluded if APP is cleaved by the α‐secretase ADAM10 instead of BACE1. We have previously shown that Aβ can be produced locally at the synapse. To study the synaptic localization of the APP processing enzymes we used western blotting to demonstrate that, compared to total brain homogenate, ADAM10 and BACE1 were greatly enriched in synaptic vesicles isolated from rat brain using controlled‐pore glass chromatography, whereas Presenilin1 was the only enriched component of the γ‐secretase complex. Moreover, we detected ADAM10 activity in synaptic vesicles and enrichment of the intermediate APP‐C‐terminal fragments (APP‐CTFs). We confirmed the western blotting findings using in situ proximity ligation assay to demonstrate close proximity of ADAM10 and BACE1 with the synaptic vesicle marker synaptophysin in intact mouse primary hippocampal neurons. In contrast, only sparse co‐localization of active γ‐secretase and synaptophysin was detected. These results indicate that the first step of APP processing occurs in synaptic vesicles whereas the final step is more likely to take place elsewhere.

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The amyloid‐β (Aβ) precursor protein, FL‐APP, is cleaved into the synaptotoxic Aβ by BACE1 and γ‐secretase while ADAM10 cleavage precludes Aβ formation. We demonstrate enrichment of ADAM10 and BACE1, but not γ‐secretase, in synaptic vesicles which indicates that the first step of APP processing occurs in synaptic vesicles whereas the final step is more likely to take place elsewhere.
Cannabinoid receptor type 1 agonist ACEA improves motor recovery and protects neurons in ischemic stroke in mice
Authors: Caltana Laura , Saez Trinidad Maria , Aronne María Paula , Brusco Alicia
Published: August 2015

Brain ischemia produces neuronal cell death and the recruitment of pro‐inflammatory cells. In turn, the search for neuroprotection against this type of insult has rendered results involving a beneficial role of endocannabinoid receptor agonists in the Central Nervous System. In this work, to further elucidate the mechanisms associated to this neuroprotective effect, focal brain ischemia was generated by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) in C57Bl/6 mice. Three, 24 and 48 h after MCAo, animals received CB1R agonist ACEA (1 mg/kg), CB1R antagonist AM251 (1 mg/kg) or vehicle. To assess motor activity, neural deficit scores and motor tests were performed 1 day before and 3, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days after MCAo. At 7 and 28 days post lesion, cytoskeleton structure, astroglial and microglial reaction, and alterations in synapsis were studied in the cerebral cortex. ACEA treatment reduced astrocytic reaction, neuronal death, and dendritic loss. In contrast, AM251 treatment increased these parameters. Motor tests showed a progressive deterioration in motor activity in ischemic animals, which only ACEA treatment was able to counteract. Our results suggest that CB1R may be involved in neuronal survival and in the regulation of neuroprotection during focal cerebral ischemia in mice.

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ACEA improved the motor activity affected by the middle cerebral artery occlusion. At histologic level, ACEA preserved the neuronal cytoarchitecture, decreased the astroglial and microglial reaction.
IS THE CAPITAL STRUCTURE LOGIC OF CORPORATE FINANCE APPLICABLE TO INSURERS? REVIEW AND ANALYSIS
Authors: Dhaene Jan , Van Hulle Cynthia , Wuyts Gunther , Schoubben Frederiek , Schoutens Wim
Published: August 2015

Since the financial crisis of 2008, next to banks, insurers have received increasing attention from researchers and regulators because of their crucial role in the financial system. A key point for a stable insurer is its capital structure, i.e. the choice between equity, debt and provisions in financing its operations. Based on earlier work a quickly developing literature has directly applied capital structure theories (in particular trade‐off and pecking order) from corporate finance to insurers’ financing choices. Corporate finance concepts used herein however, are developed for industrial firms. In this paper we provide an overview of the literature on the capital structure of insurers, but contribute by systematically clarifying how to account for the specificities of insurers when transferring the trade‐off and pecking‐order logic from an industrial to an insurer context. This way, we add several new insights on an insurer's choice between equity, financial debt and provisions. In particular, we are able to explain why, as compared to industrial firms, insurers use less financial debt, and why insurers focus so strongly on self‐financing. Finally, we identify multiple avenues for future research.
Prognostic Value of Quantitative Diffusion‐Weighted MRI in Patients with Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Shakir Afaaf , Aksoy Didem , Mlynash Michael , Harris Odette A. , Albers Gregory W. , Hirsch Karen G.
Published: August 2015

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Data about the predictive value of quantitative diffusion‐weighted MRI in traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients is lacking. This study aimed to determine if specific apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) thresholds could be determined that correlate with outcome in moderate‐severe TBI.

METHODS

This retrospective observational study investigated patients with moderate‐severe TBI. MRIs obtained post‐injury days 1‐13 were analyzed. MRIs were obtained on a 1.5T scanner; 20‐23 contiguous diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) sections with a spin‐echo echo planar imaging DWI 256×256 reconstructed matrix; field of view 24×24 cm; slice thickness/gap of 5/1.5 or 5/2.5 mm. The ADC value of each brain tissue voxel was determined. The percentage of voxels below different ADC thresholds was calculated and correlated with outcome. A good outcome was defined as discharge to home or a rehabilitation facility.

RESULTS

Seventy‐six patients were analyzed. Thirty‐five patients (46%) had a good outcome. The timing of MRI scans did not differ between groups, but the mean age did (42±18 years vs. 56±19 years,p<.01, good vs. poor outcome). Patients with poor outcome had significantly higher percentage of brain volume with ADC < 400×10‐6mm2/second (.85±.67% vs. .60±.29%, poor vs. good outcome,p<.05). Using a ROC curve analysis and Youden's index, an ADC <400×10‐6mm2/second in ≥.49% of brain was 85% sensitive and 46% specific for poor outcome (p<.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Quantitative MRI offers additional prognostic information in acute TBI. A whole brain tissue ADC threshold of <400×10‐6mm2/second in ≥.49% of brain may be a novel prognostic biomarker.