bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reduction of diuretics and analysis of water and muscle volumes to prevent falls and fall‐related fractures in older adults
Authors: Okada Kosuke , Okada Masahiro , Kamada Nanao , Yamaguchi Yumiko , Kakehashi Masayuki , Sasaki Hidemi , Katoh Shigeko , Morita Katsuya
Published: February 2016

Aim

In an attempt to decrease the incidence of falls and fall‐related fractures at a special geriatric nursing home, we endeavored to reduce diuretic doses, and examined the relationship between the effectiveness of this approach with the body compositions and activities of daily living of the study cohort.

Methods

We enrolled 93 participants living in the community, 60 residents of an intermediate geriatric nursing home and 50 residents of the 100‐bed Kandayama Yasuragien special geriatric nursing home. We recorded body composition using a multifrequency bioelectrical impedance analyzer. Daily loop diuretic and other diuretic regimens of those in the special geriatric nursing home were reduced or replaced with “NY‐mode” diuretic therapy, namely, spironolactone 12.5 mg orally once on alternate days.

Results

The incidence of falls fell from 53 in 2011 to 29 in 2012, and there were no fall‐related proximal femoral fractures for 3 years after the introduction of NY‐mode diuretic therapy. We also found statistically significant differences in muscle and intracellular water volumes in our elderly participants: those with higher care requirements or lower levels of independence had lower muscle or water volumes.

Conclusions

We found that reducing or replacing daily diuretics with NY‐mode therapy appeared to reduce the incidence of falls and fall‐related proximal femoral fracture, likely by preserving intracellular and extracellular body water volumes. Low‐dose spironolactone (12.5 mg on alternate days) appears to be an effective means of treating elderly individuals with chronic heart failure or other edematous states, while preventing falls and fall‐related fractures. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 262–269.
Essential role of Wnt5a‐Ror1/Ror2 signaling in metanephric mesenchyme and ureteric bud formation
Authors: Qi Xiaoyuan , Okinaka Yuka , Nishita Michiru , Minami Yasuhiro
Published: February 2016

Spatiotemporally regulated interaction between the metanephric mesenchyme (MM) and Wolffian duct (WD) is essential for the induction of a single ureteric bud (UB). The MM then interacts with the tip of the UB to induce outgrowth and branching of the UB, which in turn promotes growth of the adjacent MM. The Ror family receptor tyrosine kinases, Ror1 and Ror2, have been shown to act as receptors for Wnt5a to mediate noncanonical Wnt signaling. Previous studies have shown that Ror2‐mutant mice exhibit ectopic formation of the UB, due to abnormal juxtaposition of the MM to the WD. We show here that both Ror1 and Ror2 are expressed in the mesenchyme between the MM and WD during UB formation. Although Ror1‐mutant mice show no apparent defects in UB formation, Ror1;Ror2‐double‐mutant mice exhibit either defects in UB outgrowth and branching morphogenesis, associated with the loss of the MM from the UB domain, or ectopic formation of the UB. We also show genetic interactions between Ror1 and Wnt5a during UB formation. These findings suggest that Wnt5a‐Ror1/Ror2 signaling regulates cooperatively the formation of the MM at the proper position to ensure normal development of the UB.
Albumin expression distinguishes bile duct adenomas from metastatic adenocarcinoma
Authors: Moy Andrea P , Arora Kshitij , Deshpande Vikram
Published: February 2016

Aims

Bile duct adenomas may be difficult to distinguish from metastatic carcinomas, particularly well‐differentiated pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Prior studies have evaluated the utility of various immunohistochemical markers, although these markers are notable for low sensitivity and/or specificity. The aim of this study was to investigate the utility of albumin and BRAFV600E expression in distinguishing between metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma and bile duct adenoma.

Methods and results

We studied 26 bile duct adenomas, three bile duct hamartomas, and 158 pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas. Branched‐chain in‐situ hybridization (bISH) for albumin was performed; bISH is based on the branched DNA technology, wherein signal amplification is achieved via a series of sequential steps. Additionally, BRAFV600E immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed on a subset of cases. Twenty‐three of 25 (92%) bile duct adenomas were positive for albumin; 18 (72%) showed diffuse staining, and five showed focal staining (20%), including two challenging examples. Two bile duct hamartomas also stained positively. All pancreatic adenocarcinomas were negative for albumin. Seven of 16 (44%) bile duct adenomas and five of 106 (5%) pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas were positive for BRAFV600E by IHC. The sensitivity and specificity of expression of albumin, as detected by bISH, for distinguishing bile duct adenomas from metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinomas were 92% and 100%, respectively; the sensitivity and specificity of BRAFV600E IHC for distinguishing bile duct adenomas from metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinomas were 43.8% and 95.3%, respectively.

Conclusions

Diagnostically challenging examples of bile duct adenoma may be distinguished from metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma by the use of albumin bISH.
‘We Want to Live’: Metaphor and Ethical Life in F.W. Maitland's Jurisprudence of the Trust
Authors: Gearey Adam
Published: February 2016

This article argues that reading F.W. Maitland's jurisprudence of the trust alongside Hegel's philosophy of social recognition offers insights into the way in which metaphors ‘structure’ the modes of ethical life that inform legal and social institutions. Conventional ways of reading Maitland (and John Neville Figgis) have obscured the affinities their work shares with Hegel, and limited the impact of a way of thinking about law and society.
Diffuse Ventricular Fibrosis on Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging Associates With Ventricular Tachycardia in Patients With Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: McLELLAN ALEX J.A. , ELLIMS ANDRIS H. , PRABHU SANDEEP , VOSKOBOINIK ALEX , ILES LEAH M. , HARE JAMES L. , KAYE DAVID M. , MACCIOCCA IVAN , MARIANI JUSTIN A. , KALMAN JONATHAN M. , TAYLOR ANDREW J. , KISTLER PETER M.
Published: February 2016

Diffuse Fibrosis Predicts Ventricular Arrhythmia in HCM

Introduction

Non‐sustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT) is a risk factor for sudden cardiac death (SCD) in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). We aimed to assess whether diffuse ventricular fibrosis on cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging could be a surrogate marker for ventricular arrhythmias in patients with HCM.

Methods

A total of 100 patients with HCM (mean age 51 ± 13 years, septal wall thickness 20 ± 5 mm) underwent CMR with a 1.5 T scanner to determine the presence of ventricular late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) for focal fibrosis, and post‐contrast T1 mapping for diffuse ventricular fibrosis. The presence of NSVT was determined by Holter monitoring and a subset of high risk patients received an implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD).

Results

NSVT was detected in 23 of 100 patients with HCM. Focal ventricular fibrosis (by LGE) was observed in 87%, with no significant difference between patients with (96%) or without NSVT (86%, P = 0.19). However, LGE mass was greater in patients with (16.5 ± 19.1 g) versus without NSVT (7.6 ± 10.2 g, P < 0.01). NSVT was associated with a significant reduction in ventricular T1 relaxation time (422 ± 54 milliseconds) versus patients without NSVT (512 ± 115 milliseconds; P < 0.001). There was significant reduction in ventricular T1 relaxation time in patients with (430 ± 48 milliseconds) versus without aborted SCD (495 ± 113 milliseconds; P = 0.01) over a mean follow‐up of 40 ± 10 months. On multivariate analysis post‐contrast ventricular T1 relaxation time and septal wall thickness were the only predictors of NSVT.

Conclusion

Post‐contrast T1 relaxation time on CMR is associated with ventricular arrhythmias in patients with HCM. Diffuse ventricular fibrosis may be an important marker of arrhythmic risk in patients with HCM.
Effects of problem‐based learning in paediatric education in China: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Gao Xiaolin , Luo Shuanghong , Mu Dezhi , Xiong Ying , Guanjian Liu , Wan Chaomin
Published: February 2016

Objective

To evaluate the efficiency of Problem‐Based Learning (PBL) in paediatric education.

Methods

The research articles on the application of PBL to Chinese paediatric education published in from 1989 to 2014 in the Cochrane library, PubMed/MEDLINE, EBSCO (Elton B. Stephens Company Database), OVID (Ovid Technologies Database), Web of Science, CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure Database), VIP (Wei Pu Database), WF (WanFang Database) and other databases were retrieved by two independent evaluators according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The heterogeneity of the retrieved data was analysed and a meta‐analysis was performed using the RevMan 5.3 software.

Results

The articles were initially retrieved, and 11 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included for the meta‐analysis. The PBL group was significantly superior to the Lecture‐Based Learning (LBL) group for the paediatrics theoretical test score, case analysis score and overall student satisfaction, and the differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

PBL is superior to LBL method for Chinese paediatric education.
The Dermal Apron Technique for Immediate Implant Socket Management: A Novel Technique
Authors: Levin Barry P.
Published: February 2016

With immediate implant placement and provisionalization (IIP) in the esthetic zone, measures to counter hard and soft tissue loss are frequently necessary. To reduce the morbidity associated with bone and connective tissue procurement, various exogenous materials are utilized. The “Dermal Apron Technique” presented in this article demonstrates the use of a composite bone particulate (allograft/xenograft) plus a dermal allograft, adapted around screw‐retained temporary crowns and secured within a subperiosteal pouch. The purpose is to augment the thickness of peri‐implant mucosa for the purpose of preserving ridge dimensions and preventing mucosal recession. Controlled studies are required to further support its use.

Clinical Significance

Soft tissue health and harmony are critical for successful implant therapy in the esthetic regions of the dentition. Often, autogenous soft tissue grafts are used to augment peri‐implant soft tissues. The Dermal Apron Technique is a method, that in specific situations, obviates the need for autogenous grafting. This reduces treatment time and morbidity associated with procurement of these grafts. The Dermal Apron Technique is used simultaneous with immediate placement and provisionalization and can improve long‐term esthetic outcomes for patients.
The influence of status and the social environment on energy stores in a social fish
Authors: Hellmann J. K. , Ligocki I. Y. , O'Connor C. M. , Reddon A. R. , Farmer T. M. , Marsh‐Rollo S. E. , Balshine S. , Hamilton I. M.
Published: February 2016

This study explores how muscle and liver energy stores are linked with social status and the social environment in Neolamprologus pulcher, a cooperatively breeding fish that lives in colonies comprised of up to 200 distinct social groups. Subordinate muscle energy stores were positively correlated with the number of neighbouring social groups in the colony, but this pattern was not observed in dominant N. pulcher. Furthermore, liver energy stores were smaller in dominants living at the edge of the colony compared with those living in the colony centre, with no differences among subordinates in liver energy stores. Subordinate N. pulcher may build up large energy stores in the muscles to fuel rapid growth after dispersal, which could occur more frequently in high‐density environments. Dominant N. pulcher may use the more easily mobilized energy stores in the liver to fuel daily activities, which could be more energetically demanding on the edge of the colony as a result of the increased predation defence needed on the edge. Overall, this study demonstrates that both subordinate and dominant physiology in N. pulcher varies with characteristics of the social environment. Furthermore, dominant and subordinate energy storage strategies appear to differ due to status‐dependent variation in daily activities and variation in the need to prepare for future reproductive or dispersal opportunities.
Mutation in the gene encoding 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylate synthase 4 (CitACS4) led to andromonoecy in watermelon
Authors: Ji Gaojie , Zhang Jie , Zhang Haiying , Sun Honghe , Gong Guoyi , Shi Jianting , Tian Shouwei , Guo Shaogui , Ren Yi , Shen Huolin , Gao Junping , Xu Yong
Published: February 2016

Although it has been reported previously that ethylene plays a critical role in sex determination in cucurbit species, how the andromonoecy that carries both the male and hermaphroditic flowers is determined in watermelon is still unknown. Here we showed that the watermelon gene 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylate synthase 4 (CitACS4), expressed specifically in carpel primordia, determines the andromonoecy in watermelon. Among four single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) and one InDel identified in the coding region of CitACS4, the C364W mutation located in the conserved box 6 was co‐segregated with andromonoecy. Enzymatic analyses showed that the C364W mutation caused a reduced activity in CitACS4. We believe that the reduced CitACS4 activity may hamper the programmed cell death in stamen primordia, leading to the formation of hermaphroditic flowers.
Painful Diabetic Neuropathy Anxiety Rasch‐Transformed Questionnaire (PART‐Q30©)
Authors: Geelen Charlotte C. , Brouwer Brigitte A. , Hoeijmakers Janneke G. J. , Faber Catharina G. , Merkies Ingemar S. J. , Verbunt Jeanine A.
Published: February 2016

The association between painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN) and anxiety has been acknowledged using various anxiety scales capturing various fear entities. It has never been examined whether these generally applied anxiety questionnaires could be pooled to construct one overall anxiety metric. After completion by a cohort of 151 patients with PDN, data obtained from seven generally applied fear scales were stacked (n = 88 items) and subjected to Rasch analyses (pre‐PART‐Q88) to create the PDN overall Anxiety Questionnaire (PART‐Q30©). We subsequently examined the impact of the final constructed PART‐Q30© on disability and Quality of Life (QoL) using the Rasch‐Transformed Pain Disability Index (RT‐PDI) and the Norfolk Quality of Life Questionnaire, Diabetic Neuropathy version (RT‐Norfolk). The pre‐PART‐Q88 data did not meet Rasch model's expectations. Through stepwise examination for model fit, disordered thresholds, local dependency and item bias, we succeeded in reducing the data and constructing a 30 items overall anxiety scale (PART‐Q30©) that fulfilled all model's expectations, including unidimensionality. An acceptable internal reliability was found (person‐separation‐index: 0.90). PART‐Q30© explained 36% of disability and combined with RT‐PDI 63% of QoL (assessed with RT‐Norfolk).
Exporting Liquidity: Branch Banking and Financial Integration
Authors: GILJE ERIK P. , LOUTSKINA ELENA , STRAHAN PHILIP E.
Published: February 2016

Using exogenous liquidity windfalls from oil and natural gas shale discoveries, we demonstrate that bank branch networks help integrate U.S. lending markets. Banks exposed to shale booms enjoy liquidity inflows, which increase their capacity to originate and hold new loans. Exposed banks increase mortgage lending in nonboom counties, but only where they have branches and only for hard‐to‐securitize mortgages. Our findings suggest that contracting frictions limit the ability of arm's length finance to integrate credit markets fully. Branch networks continue to play an important role in financial integration, despite the development of securitization markets.
Information in the Term Structure of Yield Curve Volatility
Authors: CIESLAK ANNA , POVALA PAVOL
Published: February 2016

Using a novel no‐arbitrage model and extensive second‐moment data, we decompose conditional volatility of U.S. Treasury yields into volatilities of short‐rate expectations and term premia. Short‐rate expectations become more volatile than premia before recessions and during asset market distress. Correlation between shocks to premia and shocks to short‐rate expectations is close to zero on average and varies with the monetary policy stance. While Treasuries are nearly unexposed to variance shocks, investors pay a premium for hedging variance risk with derivatives. We illustrate the dynamics of the yield volatility components during and after the financial crisis.
Local Currency Sovereign Risk
Authors: DU WENXIN , SCHREGER JESSE
Published: February 2016

We introduce a new measure of emerging market sovereign credit risk: the local currency credit spread, defined as the spread of local currency bonds over the synthetic local currency risk‐free rate constructed using cross‐currency swaps. We find that local currency credit spreads are positive and sizable. Compared with credit spreads on foreign‐currency‐denominated debt, local currency credit spreads have lower means, lower cross‐country correlations, and lower sensitivity to global risk factors. We discuss several major sources of credit spread differentials, including positively correlated credit and currency risk, selective default, capital controls, and various financial market frictions.
Expression of stem cell‐regulating miRNAs in oral cavity and oropharynx squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Brito Bárbara de Lima , Lourenço Silvia Vanessa , Damascena Aline Santos , Kowalski Luiz Paulo , Soares Fernando Augusto , Coutinho‐Camillo Cláudia Malheiros
Published: February 2016

Background

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth most common tumor worldwide and is histologically heterogeneous. Studies have demonstrated the presence of stem cell markers in HNSCC, and microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as powerful regulators of differentiation, controlling the self‐renewal of stem cells. miRNAs are non‐coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression post‐transcriptionally. Many miRNAs have been described as regulators of stem cells in different types of cancer.

Methods

We have analyzed the expression of let‐7a, miR‐34, miR‐125b, miR‐138, miR‐145, miR‐183, miR‐200b, miR‐203, and miR‐205 by real‐time RT‐PCR (qPCR), in 35 oral cavity and oropharynx squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) samples and 10 non‐neoplastic oral mucosa controls, to determine possible associations between the expression of these miRNAs and clinical and pathological features of these tumors.

Results

We observed downregulation of miR‐200b and miR‐203 in 60.0% and 71.4% of the samples, respectively. Upregulation of miR‐138 and miR‐183 was observed in 50.0% of the samples. Downregulation of let‐7a was associated with perineural invasion. Upregulation of miR‐138, miRNA‐145, and miR‐205 was associated with advanced tumor stages, vascular invasion, and lymph node metastasis, respectively.

Conclusions

Our study provides evidence of the expression of miRNAs associated with stem cell regulation in oral cavity and oropharynx SCC and the association of these miRNAs with clinical and pathological features of these tumors.
Tissue microarray use for immunohistochemical study of ameloblastoma
Authors: Neves‐Silva Rodrigo , Fonseca Felipe Paiva , de Jesus Adriana Souza , Pontes Hélder Antônio Rebelo , Rocha André Caroli , Brandão Thais Bianca , Vargas Pablo Agustin , Lopes Márcio Ajudarte , de Almeida Oslei Paes , Santos‐Silva Alan Roger
Published: February 2016

Background

Ameloblastoma is a locally aggressive odontogenic tumor with high rates of recurrence. To better understand the molecular basis of ameloblastoma, tissue microarray (TMA) may represent a useful tool. However, despite TMA has been considered a high‐throughput technique for different human neoplasms, it remains to be validated in the ameloblastoma context. Therefore, the objective of this study was to validate TMA for immunohistochemical study of ameloblastoma, determining its most appropriate design.

Methods

Forty cases of ameloblastoma were manually distributed in two TMA blocks assembled in triplicate containing 1.0‐ and 2.0‐mm cores (20 cases each). Immunohistochemistry for cytokeratins 14 and 19, and Bcl‐2 and Ki‐67 was performed, and semiquantitative analysis was performed. Results obtained with TMA sections were compared to their corresponding conventional whole‐section slides (CWSS).

Results

Kappa statistical test demonstrated that both 1.0‐ and 2.0‐mm cores assessed as duplicate or triplicate significantly correlated with CWSS, with higher levels obtained using Ki67 (k = 0.98, 0.97, 0.88, 0.87) and CK19 (k = 0.62, 0.58, 0.85, 0.85). There was no significant difference between 1.0‐ and 2.0‐mm cores, and between duplicate and triplicate values. 1.0‐mm TMA showed a higher index of core loss (33.74% vs. 4.99%).

Conclusion

Using a manual arrayer, it was demonstrated that 1.0‐mm TMA arranged in duplicate is a valid method for ameloblastoma immunohistochemical study with satisfactory levels of agreement between TMA cylinders and CWSS.
Effects of physical form of starter and forage provision to young calves on blood metabolites, liver composition and intestinal morphology
Authors: Moeini H. , Mahdavi A. H. , Riasi A. , Ghorbani G. R. , Oskoueian E. , Khan M. A. , Ghaffari M. H.
Published: February 2016

This study evaluated the effects of physical form of starter feed and forage provision on the performance, blood metabolites, liver composition and intestinal morphology of dairy calves. Individually housed calves (n = 52; body weight = 41.5 ± 2.5 kg) were randomly allocated (n = 13 per treatment) to one of the following four treatments: (i) ground starter feed (GS; mean particle size = 0.72 mm in diameter), (ii) textured starter feed (TS; mean particle size = 3.61 mm in diameter, including steam‐flaked corn and barley), (iii) pelleted starter feed (PS; mean particle size = 4.53 mm in diameter) and (iv) ground starter feed with chopped alfalfa hay (GS + AH; mean particle size = 1.02 mm in diameter). The calves fed GS + AH diets had greater (p < 0.01) starter intake, final body weight and average daily gain compared with the other groups, while GS and TS groups both had greater (p < 0.01) starter intake than the PS group. Feed efficiency was found to be better (p < 0.05) in the TS group than in the GS or PS group, but not different from the GS + AH one. Compared with the other groups, the GS + AH group had the highest (p < 0.01), while the PS one had the lowest (p < 0.01) concentrations of blood glucose and triglyceride. The calves fed GS + AH had the highest blood concentrations of total protein, globulin, triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxin (T4), T3 : T4 ratio (p < 0.05) and levels of fat and glycogen in the liver (p < 0.01) compared with the other groups. The highest (p < 0.05) liver glycogen contents were observed in the GS + AH and TS groups. The duodenum, ileum and jejunum in the calves fed GS + AH exhibited a greater muscle layer thickness (p < 0.05) compared with the other groups. Based on the results obtained, the addition of dietary forage to starter diets positively influenced performance, liver composition and intestinal morphology in developing calves.
“I Hope I Get Movie‐star Teeth”: Doing the Exceptional Normal in Orthodontic Practice for Young People
Authors: Wickström Anette
Published: February 2016

Orthodontics offer young people the chance to improve their bite and adjust their appearances. The most common reasons for orthodontic treatment concern general dentists’, parents’ or children's dissatisfaction with the esthetics of the bite. My aim is to analyze how esthetic norms are used during three activities preceding possible treatment with fixed appliances. The evaluation indexes signal definitiveness and are the essential grounds for decision‐making. In parallel, practitioners and patients refer to self‐perceived satisfaction with appearances. Visualizations of divergences and the improved future bite become part of an interactive process that upholds what I conceptualize as “the exceptional normal.” Insights into this process contribute to a better understanding of how medical practices intended to measure and safeguard children's and young people's health at the same time mobilize patients to look and feel better. The article is based on an ethnographic study at two orthodontic clinics.
Less contribution of mast cells to the progression of renal fibrosis in Rat kidneys with chronic renal failure
Authors: Baba Asuka , Tachi Masahiro , Ejima Yutaka , Endo Yasuhiro , Toyama Hiroaki , Saito Kazutomo , Abe Nozomu , Yamauchi Masanori , Miura Chieko , Kazama Itsuro
Published: February 2016

Aim

Chronic renal failure (CRF) is histopathologically characterized by tubulointerstitial fibrosis in addition to glomerulosclerosis. Although mast cells are known to infiltrate into the kidneys with chronic inflammation, we know little about their contribution to the pathogenesis of renal fibrosis associated with CRF. The aim of this study was to reveal the involvement of mast cells in the progression of renal fibrosis in CRF.

Methods

Using a rat model with CRF resulting from 5/6 nephrectomy, we examined the histopathological features of the kidneys and the infiltration of mast cells into the renal interstitium. By treating the rats with a potent mast cell stabilizer, tranilast, we also examined the involvement of mast cells in the progression of renal fibrosis associated with CRF.

Results

The CRF rat kidneys were characterized by the wide staining of collagen III and increased number of myofibroblasts, indicating the progression of renal fibrosis. Compared to T‐lymphocytes or macrophages, the number of tryptase‐positive mast cells was much smaller within the fibrotic kidneys and they did not proliferate in situ. The mRNA expression of mast cell‐derived fibroblast‐activating factors was not increased in the renal cortex isolated from CRF rat kidneys. Treatment with tranilast did not suppress the progression of renal fibrosis, nor did it ameliorate the progression of glomerulosclerosis and the interstitial proliferation of inflammatory leukocytes.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated for the first time that mast cells are neither increased nor activated in the fibrotic kidneys of CRF rats. Compared to T‐lymphocytes or macrophages that proliferate in situ within the fibrotic kidneys, mast cells were less likely to contribute to the progression of renal fibrosis associated with CRF.
Petrocodon retroflexus sp. nov. (Gesneriaceae) from a karst cave in Guizhou, China
Authors: Guo Jing , Meng Tao , Pang Hongbo , Zhang Qiang
Published: February 2016

Petrocodon retroflexus Q. Zhang & J. Guo, a new species of Gesneriaceae from Guizhou, China, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to Petrocodon viridescens W. H. Chen, Mich. Möller & Y. M. Shui, but differs by its leaf blade being ovate, broadly ovate to elliptic, 8–20 × 5–15 cm and densely pilose on both surfaces, narrowly triangular, 9 mm long, densely pilose bracts, white corolla that is decurved near the middle, with adaxial lip shallowly 4‐partitioned and retroflexed, and pistil ca 1.3 cm long and densely pilose and glandular‐pilose.
Time‐invariant differences between plant individuals in interactions with arthropods correlate with intraspecific variation in plant phenology, morphology and floral scent
Authors: Kuppler Jonas , Höfers Maren K. , Wiesmann Lisa , Junker Robert R.
Published: February 2016

The basic units of ecological and evolutionary processes are individuals. Network studies aiming to infer mechanisms from complex systems, however, usually focus on interactions between species, not individuals. Accordingly, the structure and underlying mechanisms of individual‐based interaction networks remain largely unknown.

In a common garden, we recorded all interactions on flowers and leaves of 97Sinapis arvensisindividuals from seedling stage to fruit set and related interindividual differences in interactions to the plant individuals’ phenotypes.

The plant individuals significantly differed in their quantitative and qualitative interactions with arthropods on flowers and leaves. These differences remained stable over the entire season and thus were time‐invariant. Variation in interacting arthropod communities could be explained by a pronounced intraspecific variability in flowering phenology, morphology and flower scent, and translated into variation in reproductive success. Interestingly, plant individuals with a similar composition of flower visitors were also visited by a similar assemblage of interaction partners at leaves.

Our results show that the nonuniformity of plant species has pronounced effects in community ecology, potentially with implications for the persistence of communities and populations, and their ability to withstand environmental fluctuations.
Eosinophilic enteritis due to cow's milk allergy: Possible cause of anastomosis failure following repair of focal intestinal perforation
Authors: Yokoyama Satoshi , Sekioka Akinori , Utsunomiya Hirofumi , Yokoyama Koji , Ikeda Yuka , Hara Shigeto , Yoshida Akira
Published: February 2016

Reports of cow's milk allergy (CMA) after neonatal gastrointestinal surgery have recently increased. In recent years it has been suggested that the development of CMA after gastrointestinal surgery in newborn infants is due to an immune function. In addition, the development of CMA might be synergistically exacerbated by congenital abnormalities of the intestinal mucosa, general conditional changes and local damage to the intestine by invasive surgery, and poor pre‐ or post‐surgical nutrition. CMA manifests as a variety of symptoms, such as mild vomiting and bloody stool, decreased activity, poor oral intake, and ileus. CMA may also rarely cause gastrointestinal perforation. Here, we report the case of a newborn infant who developed CMA following repair of focal small intestinal perforation, in which eosinophilic enteritis was suspected to be a possible cause of anastomosis leakage.
Glioblastoma in long‐term survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia: Report of two cases
Authors: Wang Zi , Terakawa Yuzo , Goto Hiroyuki , Tsuyuguchi Naohiro , Sato Hidetoshi , Abe Junya , Ohata Kenji
Published: February 2016

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common form of cancer in children. Second neoplasms as late effects of therapy for ALL have been recognized as a significant clinical issue given the increasing number of long‐term survivors of ALL, because they can be the cause of death in such cases. In contrast, glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary brain tumor in adults. It is a malignant brain tumor that most often occurs in elderly patients, and GBM in young adults or adolescents appears to be rare. Here, we describe our experience of two cases of GBM in young long‐term survivors of ALL, and emphasize the necessity of careful follow up of patients treated for ALL for the potential occurrence of central nervous system second neoplasms, especially when the patients have previously undergone cranial radiotherapy.
Giant cell hepatitis with autoimmune hemolytic anemia in a Korean infant
Authors: Cho Myung Hyun , Park Hee Sun , Han Hye Seung , Bae Sun Hwan
Published: February 2016

Giant cell hepatitis (GCH) with autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AHA) is a very rare disease characterized by early onset and severe clinical manifestations, including immune hemolytic anemia and hepatitis with cholestasis. The prognosis is poor despite aggressive immunosuppressive therapy. We report here the first case of GCH with AHA in East Asia. A 2‐month‐old boy was admitted with jaundice. Blood test indicated abnormal liver function and low hemoglobin. Direct Coombs test and several autoantibodies associated with liver disease were positive, and liver biopsy was consistent with GCH. He was treated with prednisolone and ursodeoxycholic acid, and at the time of writing was in clinical and biochemical remission after prednisolone was stopped.
Now how do we get them home? Outpatient care of pediatric patients on mechanical circulatory support
Authors: Conway Jennifer , VanderPluym Christina , Jeewa Aamir , Sinnadurai Selvi , Schubert Amanda , Lorts Angela
Published: February 2016

The last five yr have been monumental for the pediatric heart failure community. In the US, the most notable has been the FDA approval of the first pediatric specific device (Berlin Heart EXCOR®; Berlin Heart, Inc., Berlin, Germany). Subsequently, the field of heart failure has gained a great deal of knowledge regarding the nuances of MCS in children. Despite FDA approval in the US, the Berlin EXCOR® is only currently indicated for in‐hospital use. Due to the limitations with discharge and the positive in‐ hospital experiences with the Berlin EXCOR®, there has been an increased interest in the implantation of adult durable devices into children. While many institutions have focused their intial efforts on the first phase of care within the hospital, they are now ready to tackle the challenge of how to safely transition children to the community setting.
Trait anxiety but not state anxiety level associates with biomarkers for hypertension in the metabolic syndrome
Authors: Lemche Alexandra V. , Chaban Oleg S. , Lemche Erwin
Published: February 2016

Various studies link hypertension with anxiety; however, it remains unclarified if such relations are present in the metabolic syndrome (MetS). We studied cross‐sectionally the interrelations of self‐reported anxiety (Spielberger STAI), and MetS components in MetS patients. We investigated a nationally sampled treatment cohort for MetS with familial Type 2 diabetes risk. N = 101 patients fulfilling International Diabetes Federation criteria for MetS participated. Both laboratory and nonlaboratory measures were included. Structural equation models (SEM) were adjusted. The final SEM had an R2 = .998 with the obesity component linking to waist, BMI, and degree of adiposity, and the hypertension component linking to systolic blood pressure, pulse pressure, total cholesterol, and trait anxiety. For state anxiety, no significant regressive causal path could be estimated. SEM supports the assumption of an interaction of pulse pressure, systolic blood pressure, cholesterol metabolism, and high trait anxiety in the pathophysiology of hypertension in MetS.
Ancient empires and early modern colonialism in William Alexander's Monarchicke Tragedies (1603‐07)
Authors: Sandrock Kirsten
Published: February 2016

This article examines discourses of empire in William Alexander's Monarchicke Tragedies (1603–07) and shows that the dramas actively engage in early Jacobean debates about geopolitical expansion. Drawing on contemporaneous philosophies of leadership and state as well as on theories of Renaissance imperialism, the essay suggests that The Monarchicke Tragedies were partly devised as counsel for James VI and I on foreign politics, both in Europe and abroad. Alexander's plays resort to the stories of Croesus, Darius, Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar to warn against excessive empire‐building and to promote instead a philosophy of imperial moderation that would make James both a peaceful and a successful world ruler. Each drama grapples with a different moral and political issue of empire, ranging from Croesus’ greed to Darius’ recklessness, from Alexander the Great's imperial megalomania to Caesar's ambivalent stance as popular but ultimately tyrannical emperor, and the general question whether or not empire‐building is politic. The article closes with a consideration of how the critique of ancient empires in The Monarchicke Tragedies relates to early Stuart expansion ideologies in general and to Alexander's colonial endeavours in particular.
An activity for learning to find percentiles
Authors: Cox Richard G.
Published: February 2016

This classroom activity is designed to help students practice calculating percentiles. The approach of the activity involves physical sorting and full classroom participation in each calculation. The design encourages a more engaged approach than simply having students make a calculation with numbers on a paper.
Role of voltage‐gated calcium channels in the regulation of aldosterone production from zona glomerulosa cells of the adrenal cortex
Authors: Barrett Paula Q. , Guagliardo Nick A. , Klein Peter M. , Hu Changlong , Breault David T. , Beenhakker Mark P.
Published: February 2016

Zona glomerulosa cells (ZG) of the adrenal gland constantly integrate fluctuating ionic, hormonal and paracrine signals to control the synthesis and secretion of aldosterone. These signals modulate Ca2+ levels, which provide the critical second messenger to drive steroid hormone production. Angiotensin II is a hormone known to modulate the activity of voltage‐dependent L‐ and T‐type Ca2+ channels that are expressed on the plasma membrane of ZG cells in many species. Because the ZG cell maintains a resting membrane voltage of approximately −85 mV and has been considered electrically silent, low voltage‐activated T‐type Ca2+ channels are assumed to provide the primary Ca2+ signal that drives aldosterone production. However, this view has recently been challenged by human genetic studies identifying somatic gain‐of‐function mutations in L‐type CaV1.3 channels in aldosterone‐producing adenomas of patients with primary hyperaldosteronism. We provide a review of these assumptions and challenges, and update our understanding of the state of the ZG cell in a layer in which native cellular associations are preserved. This updated view of Ca2+ signalling in ZG cells provides a unifying mechanism that explains how transiently activating CaV3.2 channels can generate a significant and recurring Ca2+ signal, and how CaV1.3 channels may contribute to the Ca2+ signal that drives aldosterone production.

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Treatment of unstable osteochondritis dissecans in adults with autogenous osteochondral grafts (Mosaicplasty): long-term results
Authors: Ronga Mario , Stissi Placido , La Barbera Giuseppe , Valoroso Marco , Angeretti Gloria , Genovese Eugenio , Cherubino Paolo
Published: February 2016

Purpose: the unstable osteochondritis dissecans (OCD-type II and III according to the ICRs classification) of the knee largher than > 2.5 cm2 in adults are uncommon lesions and there is no consensus on how to treat them. Medium-term studies have reported good re sults using autogenous osteochondral plugs (mosaicplasty). The aim of this study is to analyze the long-term results of this technique for the treatment of unstable OCD in a selected group of adult patients.

Methods: four patients with OCD at either one of the femoral condyles were included in this prospective study. The average age was 21.2 years (range, 18-24 years). The OCD lesions were classified as type II in three patients and type III in one patient and the average size was 3.8 cm2 (range, 2.55-5.1 cm2 ). The lesions were treated in situ with a variable number of autogenous osteochondral plugs (Ø 4.5 mm2). The Modified Cincinnati, Lysholm II and Tegner scores were used for clinical and functional evaluation. Magnetic resonance arthrography (MRA) was performed before surgery and at 2, 5 and 10 years after surgery. A modified MOCART score was used to evaluate MRA findings.

Results: the average follow-up duration was ten years and 6 months (range, 10-11 years). No complications occurred. At the final follow-up, all scores (clinical, functional and MOCART) improved. In all but one of the patients MRA showed complete osteochondral repair.

Conclusions: the fixation of large and unstable OCD lesions with mosaicplasty may be a good option for treating type II or III OCD lesions in adults. The advantages of this technique include stable fixation, promotion of blood supply to the base of the OCD fragment, and grafting of autologous cancellous bone that stimulates healing with preservation of the articular surface.

Level of evidence: Level IV, therapeutic case series.
Reducing periprosthetic joint infection: what really counts?
Authors: Solarino Giuseppe , Abate Antonella , Vicenti Giovanni , Spinarelli Antonio , Piazzolla Andrea , Moretti Biagio
Published: February 2016

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) remains one of the most challenging complications after joint arthroplasty. Despite improvements in surgical techniques and in the use of antibiotic prophylaxis, it remains a major cause of implant failure and need for revision. PJI is associated with both human host-related and bacterial agentrelated factors that can interact in all the phases of the procedure (preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative). Prevention is the first strategy to implement in order to minimize this catastrophic complication.

The present review focuses on the preoperative period, and on what to do once risk factors are fully understood and have been identified.
Traumatic bilateral Achilles tendon rupture in a young athlete treated with percutaneous tenorrhaphy
Authors: Macera Armando , Carulli Christian , Matassi Fabrizio , Veneziani Carlo , Innocenti Massimo
Published: February 2016

While rupture of the Achilles tendon is one of the most frequent injuries sustained in sports and physical activity, bilateral Achilles tendon rupture is uncommon. We present the case of a 33-year-old man who sustained a bilateral Achilles tendon rupture in the absence of predisposing factors. The lesions were managed by percutaneous tenorrhaphy and casting. Six months after surgery he was able to return to his daily-life activities and to perform light sports activity. The Authors review the current literature on the management of this rare condition in young people, with or without risk factors.
MM-151 overcomes acquired resistance to cetuximab and panitumumab in colorectal cancers harboring EGFR extracellular domain mutations
Authors: Arena Sabrina , Siravegna Giulia , Mussolin Benedetta , Kearns Jeffrey D. , Wolf Beni B. , Misale Sandra , Lazzari Luca , Bertotti Andrea , Trusolino Livio , Adjei Alex A. , Montagut Clara , Di Nicolantonio Federica , Nering Rachel , Bardelli Alberto
Published: February 2016

An oligoclonal antibody overcomes drug resistance in colorectal cancers with EGFR mutations.
A notch against cancer
Authors: Beswick Ellen J.
Published: February 2016

Notch signaling may be antitumorigenic in some cancers.
Evaluation of Liquid-Based Swab Transport Systems against the New Approved CLSI M40-A2 Standard
Authors: Gizzie Nina , Adukwu Emmanuel
Published: February 2016

Following revised information pertaining to newer swab types and testing protocols in the new CLSI M40-A2 standard, we evaluated three liquid swab transport systems for the recovery of aerobic, anaerobic, and fastidious organisms at room temperature and at 4°C. All tested liquid swab transport systems were fully compliant with the M40-A2 standard, with acceptable performance at both temperatures after the full specified holding period, using both qualitative (roll-plate) and quantitative (swab elution) methods.
Toxoplasma gondii Arginine Methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1) Is Necessary for Centrosome Dynamics during Tachyzoite Cell Division
Authors: El Bissati Kamal , Suvorova Elena S. , Xiao Hui , Lucas Olivier , Upadhya Rajendra , Ma Yanfen , Hogue Angeletti Ruth , White Michael W. , Weiss Louis M. , Kim Kami
Published: February 2016

The arginine methyltransferase family (PRMT) has been implicated in a variety of cellular processes, including signal transduction, epigenetic regulation, and DNA repair pathways. PRMT1 is thought to be responsible for the majority of PRMT activity in
Toxoplasma gondii
, but its exact function is unknown. To further define the biological function of the PRMT family, we generated
T. gondii
mutants lacking PRMT1 (Δ
prmt1
) by deletion of the
PRMT1
gene. Δ
prmt1
parasites exhibit morphological defects during cell division and grow slowly, and this phenotype reverses in the Δ
prmt
::
PRMT1mRFP
complemented strain. Tagged PRMT1 localizes primarily in the cytoplasm with enrichment at the pericentriolar material, and the strain lacking PRMT1 is unable to segregate progeny accurately. Unlike wild-type and complemented parasites, Δ
prmt1
parasites have abnormal daughter buds, perturbed centrosome stoichiometry, and loss of synchronous replication. Whole-genome expression profiling demonstrated differences in expression of cell-cycle-regulated genes in the Δ
prmt1
strain relative to the complemented Δ
prmt1::PRMT1mRFP
and parental wild-type strains, but these changes do not correlate with a specific block in cell cycle. Although PRMT1’s primary biological function was previously proposed to be methylation of histones, our studies suggest that PRMT1 plays an important role within the centrosome to ensure the proper replication of the parasite.

IMPORTANCE
Apicomplexan parasites include several important pathogens, including
Toxoplasma gondii
, a major cause of opportunistic infections and congenital birth defects. These parasites divide using a unique form of cell division called endodyogeny that is different from those of most eukaryotes. PRMT1 is a conserved arginine methyltransferase that was thought to regulate gene expression of
T. gondii
by modifying histone methylation. Using genetic techniques, we show that disruption of PRMT1 affects the parasite’s ability to perform accurate cell division. Our studies reveal an unexpected role for arginine methylation in centrosome biology and regulation of parasite replication.
A Novel Secreted Protein, MYR1, Is Central to
Toxoplasma
’s Manipulation of Host Cells
Authors: Franco Magdalena , Panas Michael W. , Marino Nicole D. , Lee Mei-Chong Wendy , Buchholz Kerry R. , Kelly Felice D. , Bednarski Jeffrey J. , Sleckman Barry P. , Pourmand Nader , Boothroyd John C.
Published: February 2016

The intracellular protozoan
Toxoplasma gondii
dramatically reprograms the transcriptome of host cells it infects, including substantially up-regulating the host oncogene c
-myc
. By applying a flow cytometry-based selection to infected mouse cells expressing green fluorescent protein fused to c-Myc (c-Myc–GFP), we isolated mutant tachyzoites defective in this host c-Myc up-regulation. Whole-genome sequencing of three such mutants led to the identification of
MYR1
(
My
c
r
egulation
1
;
TGGT1_254470
) as essential for c-Myc induction. MYR1 is a secreted protein that requires TgASP5 to be cleaved into two stable portions, both of which are ultimately found within the parasitophorous vacuole and at the parasitophorous vacuole membrane. Deletion of
MYR1
revealed that in addition to its requirement for c-Myc up-regulation, the MYR1 protein is needed for the ability of
Toxoplasma
tachyzoites to modulate several other important host pathways, including those mediated by the dense granule effectors GRA16 and GRA24. This result, combined with its location at the parasitophorous vacuole membrane, suggested that MYR1 might be a component of the machinery that translocates
Toxoplasma
effectors from the parasitophorous vacuole into the host cytosol. Support for this possibility was obtained by showing that transit of GRA24 to the host nucleus is indeed MYR1-dependent. As predicted by this pleiotropic phenotype, parasites deficient in
MYR1
were found to be severely attenuated in a mouse model of infection. We conclude, therefore, that MYR1 is a novel protein that plays a critical role in how
Toxoplasma
delivers effector proteins to the infected host cell and that this is crucial to virulence.

IMPORTANCE
Toxoplasma gondii
is an important human pathogen and a model for the study of intracellular parasitism. Infection of the host cell with
Toxoplasma
tachyzoites involves the introduction of protein effectors, including many that are initially secreted into the parasitophorous vacuole but must ultimately translocate to the host cell cytosol to function. The work reported here identified a novel protein that is required for this translocation. These results give new insight into a very unusual cell biology process as well as providing a potential handle on a pathway that is necessary for virulence and, therefore, a new potential target for chemotherapy.