bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survivin isoform expression in arsenic trioxide‐treated acute promyelocytic leukemia cell line and patients: The odd expression pattern of survivin‐2α
Authors: Zaki Dizaji Majid , Ghaffari Seyed H , Hosseini Elham , Alizadeh Nasrin , Rostami Shahrbano , Momeny Majid , Alimoghaddam Kamran , Ghavamzadeh Ardeshir
Published: October 2016

Aim

Survivin, an inhibitor of apoptosis protein, is overexpressed in most cancers and is associated with chemotherapy resistance, increased tumor recurrence and shorter patient survival. Several survivin splice variants have been described, and none of their expressions have been defined in acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL).

Methods

Expression of the survivin gene isoforms (survivin, ‐2α, ‐2B, ‐ΔΕx3 and ‐3B) were analyzed in 50 peripheral blood and 19 bone marrow samples that were collected at different phases of the disease (diagnostic, remission and relapse) in APL patients treated with arsenic trioxide (ATO) as a front‐line therapy. In addition, the human APL‐derived cell line (NB4) was analyzed for the expression of survivin isoforms and capsase‐3 in response to the ATO.

Results

Survivin and its variants were overexpressed significantly in patient's bone marrow samples compared to peripheral blood or normal samples. Their expression was decreased after ATO treatment in both NB4 cells (except survivin‐2α) and APL patients along with PML‐RARα copy number reduction. Downregulation of survivin isoforms was associated with an increase in both caspase‐3 gene expression and its enzymatic activity levels. In a patient who did not respond to ATO treatment, expression of survivin isoforms (except survivin‐2α) were highly increased during the induction therapy.

Conclusion

Survivin isoforms are upregulated in APL patients, and their expression is diminished during the ATO treatment. In addition, overexpression of survivin and its variants (except survivin‐2α) are associated with unfavorable results, suggesting that they may play an important role in mechanisms underlying the resistance of APL cells to ATO.
Hospital‐wide implementation of an electronic‐workflow solution aiming to make surgical practice improvement easy
Authors: Sakowska Magdalena M. , Thomas Megan V. , Connor Saxon , Roberts Ross
Published: October 2016

Background

In measuring quality of health‐care delivery, digital infrastructure is essential. The aim at this tertiary centre was to create a hospital‐wide workflow system that collected data prospectively as part of daily practice.

Methods

In moving towards an electronic health record, a hospital‐wide integrated workflow system was introduced in 2013, which electronically managed the perioperative patient journey while simultaneously facilitating surgical audit. Analysis of its implementation was carried out presenting early outcomes using general surgery as an example.

Results

Theatre‐bookings (44 953) were made with compliance approaching 90% for all services. Of 7179 general surgical operations over 24 months, 5785 (80%) had an operation note created using the new system. Cumulative summation of uptake of synoptic operative reporting (SOR) for laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) was 81% with documentation being superior in terms of antibiotic use and steps to safe cholecystectomy (P < 0.001). A LC SOR took 4 min to complete (interquartile ranges 2–5 min, n = 425) and was immediately available on the day of surgery compared to narrative operative reports taking 2 days (interquartile ranges 1–5 days, n = 174) (P < 0.001). From July 2014 to November 2015, 557 (10%) complications were recorded for 5749 general surgical operations with 99% of complications being reviewed.

Conclusion

The rapid and sustained uptake of both theatre‐bookings and SOR likely reflect high end‐user satisfaction with the system. Service metrics indicate a significant improvement in the time of delivery. The ability to seamlessly complete the audit cycle at an individual, department and hospital level has been achieved.
Sertraline use in the first trimester and risk of congenital anomalies: a systemic review and meta‐analysis of cohort studies
Authors: Shen Zi‐Qi , Gao Shan‐Yan , Li Shawn Xiang , Zhang Tie‐Ning , Liu Cai‐Xia , Lv Hai‐Chen , Zhang Yuan , Gong Ting‐Ting , Xu Xin , Ji Chao , Wu Qi‐Jun , Li Da
Published: October 2016

Aim

To perform a meta‐analysis of available cohort studies on the association between sertraline use by pregnant women in the first trimester and the findings of congenital anomalies in infants.

Methods

A comprehensive search of articles published from the index date up to 31st December 2015 investigating the aforementioned associations was conducted on PubMed and Web of Science. Mesh headings used included the terms “serotonin reuptake inhibitor,” “sertraline,” “congenital anomalies” and “obstetrical outcome.”

Results

Twelve cohort studies that involved 6 468 241 pregnant women were identified. We summarized odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of congenital anomalies using the random‐effects model. Pregnant women who used sertraline in the first trimester had a statistically significant increased risk of infant cardiovascular‐related malformations (OR = 1.36; 95% CI = 1.06–1.74; I2 = 64.4%; n = 12) as well as atrial and/or ventricular septal defects (OR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.06–1.76; I2 = 62.2%; n = 8). Additionally, positive but nonsignificant associations between sertraline use and congenital anomalies of the nervous system (OR = 1.39; 95% CI = 0.83–2.32; I2 = 0%; n = 5), digestive system (OR = 1.23; 95% CI = 0.76–1.98; I2 = 0%; n = 5), eye, ear, face and neck (OR = 1.08; 95% CI = 0.33–3.55; I2 = 32.1%; n = 3), urogenital system (OR = 1.03; 95% CI = 0.73–1.46; I2 = 0%; n = 5), and musculoskeletal system (OR = 0.97; 95% CI = 0.69–1.36; I2 = 0%; n = 5) were observed.

Conclusion

This meta‐analysis suggested that the use of sertraline use by pregnant women in the first trimester had an increased risk of cardiovascular‐related malformations as well as atrial and/or ventricular septal defects in infants. Meanwhile, nonsignificant associations between sertraline use and other congenital anomalies were found. More cohort studies are warranted to provide detailed results of other congenital anomalies.
SUSTAINABILITY AND OUTREACH: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF MFIs IN SOUTH ASIA AND LATIN AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN
Authors: Churchill Sefa Awaworyi , Marr Ana
Published: October 2016

Previous studies indicate that microfinance institutions (MFIs) in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) have different operational strategies to MFIs in South Asia (SA). Given the recent emphasis placed on the feasibility of MFIs to achieve the dual goals of outreach and sustainability concurrently, we examine and compare the relationship between sustainability and outreach of MFIs in LAC with MFIs in SA. Our results indicate that trade‐offs exist between outreach and sustainability in both regions. However, the severity of trade‐off is dependent on which goal MFIs decide to focus on in each region.
AN ATTEMPT TO EXPLAIN DIFFERENCES IN ECONOMIC GROWTH: A STOCHASTIC FRONTIER APPROACH
Authors: Aguiar Diana , Costa Leonardo , Silva Elvira
Published: October 2016

Total factor productivity (TFP), factor accumulation, and growth are analysed for a panel of 40 countries in 2001–11. TFP growth and technical inefficiency are estimated using a stochastic frontier model. Environmental variables are found to have an important role in explaining differences in inefficiency across countries. Over 2001–11, the general improvement in technical efficiency of countries is almost outweighed by technological regress. Results indicate that differences in factor accumulation between OECD and emerging economies are more important than differences in TFP change to explain differences in economic growth. Results also indicate negative and significant random shocks for the OECD countries.
Insulin‐like growth factor axis targeting in cancer and tumour angiogenesis – the missing link
Authors: van Beijnum Judy R. , Pieters Wietske , Nowak‐Sliwinska Patrycja , Griffioen Arjan W.
Published: October 2016

Numerous molecular players in the process of tumour angiogenesis have been shown to offer potential for therapeutic targeting. Initially denoted to be involved in malignant transformation and tumour progression, the insulin‐like growth factor (IGF) signalling axis has been subject to therapeutic interference, albeit with limited clinical success. More recently, IGFs and their receptors have received attention for their contribution to tumour angiogenesis, which offers novel therapeutic opportunities. Here we review the contribution of this signalling axis to tumour angiogenesis, the mechanisms of resistance to therapy and the interplay with other pro‐angiogenic pathways, to offer insight in the renewed interest in the application of IGF axis targeting agents in anti‐cancer combination therapies.
Are youth offenders responsive to changing sanctions? Evidence from the Canadian Youth Criminal Justice Act of 2003
Authors: Zhang Lihui
Published: October 2016

This paper examines youth offenders’ responses to changing sanctions, using evidence from the Canadian Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA), which replaced the Young Offenders Act on April 1, 2003. Using police reported and court based official statistics and the difference‐in‐difference strategy, it is found that Canadian youth offenders were less likely to be charged by police and less likely to receive a custodial sentence following the YCJA. These changes were relatively large for less serious crime and small or insignificant for more serious crime. In response to these changes in the certainty of sanctions, less serious youth crime increased while the direction of change for more serious youth crime was less clear. Empirical analysis on youth self‐reported crime corroborates the findings on youth crime reported to police, particularly for boys.
Asymmetric spiders: Supplier heterogeneity and the organization of firms
Authors: Nowak Verena , Schwarz Christian , Suedekum Jens
Published: October 2016

We consider a property rights model of a firm with two heterogeneous suppliers and analyze which sourcing mode (outsourcing or vertical integration) is chosen for which of the asymmetric inputs. If components are close substitutes, the firm tends to outsource the technologically more important input while keeping the less important one inside its boundaries. This pattern can be reversed, however, if the two inputs are strongly complementary. The firm also tends to outsource low‐cost inputs and components with low sophistication. These theoretical predictions are consistent with numerous case studies and recent empirical evidence on the internal organization of firms.
Energy price shocks and external balances
Authors: Huynh Bao Tan
Published: October 2016

This paper studies the impact of a wide set of energy price shocks on external balances using a two‐country framework comprising multiple sectors and endogenous energy production with convex costs. The paper disentangles different demand and supply shocks in the energy market through their distinct impact on external balances. It provides a theoretical confirmation of Kilian et al. (2009) and a theoretical foundation to the determining role of the non‐energy trade balance in the transmission of energy price shocks. The presence of durables also highlights the immediate channel through which energy prices impact the non‐energy trade balance.
The citizen‐candidate model with imperfect policy control: Strategic delegation and polarization
Authors: Aytimur R. Emre , Boukouras Aristotelis , Schwager Robert
Published: October 2016

We present a modified citizen‐candidate model where the implemented policy arises from a compromise between the government and an unelected external power. We show that the two‐candidate equilibria of this model differ significantly from the original: however small the cost of candidacy, the distance between the candidates' policies, both ideal and implemented, remains strictly above a threshold. Moreover, there may be one‐candidate equilibria in which the only candidate is not the one most preferred by the median voter. Both results point out that, even with negligible cost of entry, there are limits to strategic delegation.
Psychosocial problems of children whose parents visit the emergency department due to intimate partner violence, substance abuse or a suicide attempt
Authors: Hoytema van Konijnenburg E. M. M. , van der Lee J. H. , Teeuw A. H. , Lindeboom R. , Brilleslijper‐Kater S. N. , Sieswerda‐Hoogendoorn T. , van Goudoever J. B. , Lindauer R. J. L. ,   on behalf of the aftERcare‐group
Published: October 2016

Background

High levels of maltreatment are found in children who are identified because their parents visit the emergency department due to partner violence, substance abuse or suicide attempt. However, it is unknown if these children experience psychosocial problems. This study aims to assess their levels of post‐traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, behavioural problems and health‐related quality of life.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted in six hospitals. All consecutive families of which a parent visited the emergency department due to partner violence, substance abuse or suicide attempt between 1 July 2012 and 1 March 2014 with children aged 1.5–17 years were approached for participation. Parents and children aged 8 years and older filled out questionnaires measuring post‐traumatic stress [13‐item version of Children's Revised Impact of Event Scale (CRIES‐13)], anxiety, depression (Revised Child Anxiety and Depression Scale), behavioural problems [Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and Youth Self‐Report (YSR)] and health‐related quality of life (PedsQL). Scores of participants were compared with reference data obtained in children in similar age ranges from representative Dutch community samples (CRIES‐13, Revised Child Anxiety and Depression Scale, PedsQL and CBCL) and to a normed cutoff score (CRIES‐13).

Results

Of 195 eligible families, 89 (46%) participated in the study. Participating children did not score different from community children, both on child‐reported and parent‐reported instruments. Standardized mean differences of total sum scores were 0 (CRIES‐13 and CBCL 1.5–5), 0.1 (YSR), 0.2 (CBCL 6–18) and −0.3 (PedsQL) and not statistically different from community children. Thirty‐five percent of the participating children scored above the cutoff score on the CRIES‐13, indicating post‐traumatic stress disorder, but this difference was not statistically significant from community children (mean difference 8%; 95% CI −4–22%).

Conclusions

We found no differences in psychosocial problems between children whose parents visited the emergency department due to partner violence, substance abuse or suicide attempt and children from community samples. Because 35% of the children scored in the range of post‐traumatic stress disorder, we advise healthcare providers to pay attention to post‐traumatic stress symptoms
Alcohol hyper‐responsiveness in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps
Authors: De Schryver Els , Derycke Lara , Campo Paloma , Gabriels Eline , Joos Guy F. , Van Zele Thibaut , Bachert Claus , Hellings Peter W. , Gevaert Philippe
Published: October 2016

Background

An important percentage of subjects diagnosed with chronic upper airway disease report alcohol‐induced worsening of their symptoms. The prevalence and characteristics of respiratory reactions provoked by alcohol‐containing drinks have not been fully investigated yet.

Objective

The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence and characteristics of alcohol hyper‐responsiveness in patients with chronic airway disease and healthy controls. Furthermore, nasal inflammation was evaluated in nasal polyp patients with and without hyper‐responsiveness.

Methods

We evaluated the prevalence and characteristics of alcohol‐induced respiratory complaints in 1281 subjects. Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) patients with and without NSAID exacerbated respiratory disease (NERD), chronic rhinosinusitis patients without nasal polyps (CRSsNP), allergic rhinitis (AR) patients and healthy controls were approached by means of a questionnaire. Inflammatory markers (eosinophilic cationic protein (ECP), IL‐5, IgE, SAE‐specific IgE, IL‐17, TNFα and IFNγ) in tissue were then compared between alcohol hyper‐responsive and non‐hyper‐responsive CRSwNP patients.

Results

The highest prevalence of nasal and bronchial alcohol hyper‐responsiveness was observed in patients with NERD, followed by CRSwNP, and less frequent in CRSsNP, AR and healthy controls. Alcohol hyper‐responsiveness is significantly more prevalent in CRSwNP patients suffering from recurrent disease and in patients with severe symptomatology. In nasal tissue of the hyper‐responsive CRSwNP group, we observed significantly higher nasal levels of the eosinophilic biomarker ECP.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

Nasal hyper‐responsiveness to alcohol is significantly more prevalent in severe eosinophilic upper airway disease.
Mechanism involved in interleukin-21-induced phagocytosis in human monocytes and macrophages
Authors: Vallières F , Girard D
Published: October 2016

The interleukin (IL)-21/IL-21 receptor (R) is a promising system to be exploited for the development of therapeutic strategies. Although the biological activities of IL-21 and its cell signalling events have been largely studied in immunocytes, its interaction with human monocytes and macrophages have been neglected. Previously, we reported that IL-21 enhances Fc gamma receptor (FcRγ)-mediated phagocytosis in human monocytes and in human monocyte-derived macrophages (HMDM) and identified Syk as a novel molecular target of IL-21. Here, we elucidate further how IL-21 promotes phagocytosis in these cells. Unlike its ability to enhance phagocytosis of opsonized sheep red blood cells (SRBCs), IL-21 did not promote phagocytosis of Escherichia coli and zymosan by monocytes and did not alter the cell surface expression of CD16, CD32 and CD64. In HMDM, IL-21 was found to enhance phagocytosis of zymosan. In addition, we found that IL-21 activates p38, protein kinase B (Akt), signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)-1 and STAT-3 in monocytes and HMDM. Using a pharmacological approach, we demonstrate that IL-21 enhances phagocytosis by activating some mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)–Akt and Janus kinase (JAK)–STAT pathways. These results obtained in human monocytes and macrophages have to be considered for a better exploitation of the IL-21/IL-21R system for therapeutic purposes.
Long‐term outcomes in patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 and pancreaticoduodenal neuroendocrine tumours
Authors: Donegan D. , Singh Ospina N. , Rodriguez‐Gutierrez R. , Al‐Hilli Z. , Thompson G.B. , Clarke B.L. , Young W.F.
Published: October 2016

Background

In patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN‐1), pancreaticoduodenal (PD) neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) are associated with early mortality, yet the best treatment strategy remains uncertain.

Aim

To assess patient important outcomes (mortality and metastasis) of PD‐NETs and predictors of outcomes in patients with MEN‐1.

Methods

Retrospective cohort of patients with MEN‐1 who attended the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN from 1997 to 2014.

Results

We identified 287 patients with MEN‐1; 199 (69%) patients had 217 PD‐NETs. Among those with a PD‐NETs, 129 (65%) had surgery of which 90 (70%) had their primary surgery performed at Mayo Clinic. The median postoperative follow‐up was 8 years during which 13 (14%) patients died. The mean (±standard deviation) age of death was 51 (±9) years. Tumour size, metastasis at surgery or tumour type were not predictive of mortality, but for every year older at surgery, the odds of metastasis increased by 6%. Surgery was not performed in 70 (35%) patients. Among those who were observed/medically managed without known metastatic disease, mean tumour growth was 0·02 cm/year (range, −0·13–0·4 cm/year). Four patients (7%) died at a median age of 77 (range, 51–89) years.

Conclusion

PD‐NETs are common in patients with MEN‐1 and are associated with early mortality even after surgical intervention. Active surveillance is a viable option in nonaggressive PD‐NETs, although definitive factors identifying such patients are lacking. Therefore, counselling regarding risks and benefits of current treatment options remains integral to the care of patients with MEN‐1.
Hidden mechanisms beyond the pupillary block in acute angle closure: ultrasound biomicroscopic study
Authors: Suwan Yanin , Jiamsawad Sunpong , Supakontanasan Wasu , Teekhasaenee Chaiwat
Published: October 2016

Background

To evaluate the mechanisms of acute angle closure (AAC) other than the pupillary block using ultrasound biomicroscopy.

Design

Retrospective chart review.

Participants

All patients who were diagnosed with AAC in Ramathibodi Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand, between June 2011 and February 2015 were enrolled.

Methods

Seventy‐two patients who were diagnosed with AAC underwent a detailed ocular examination. The diagnosed mechanism of AAC was confirmed by UBM and ocular biometry.

Main Outcome Measures

Primary mechanism responsible for acute angle closure.

Results

In 72 patients, the mean age was 62.33 ± 10.4 years, 18 (25%) patients were male and 54 (75%) patients were female. The primary mechanism of AAC was iridolenticular wrapping (crowded‐angle (CR) plus anterior lens subluxation (LS)) in 49 eyes (68.1%), pupillary block (PB) in 17 (23.6%) eyes, and plateau iris (PL) in 6 (8.3%) eyes. Thirty (41.7%) out of 72 eyes without previous iridotomy before UBM examination were analyzed. The most common primary mechanism in this group was iridolenticular wrapping (20 eyes, 66.7%). There were seven (23.3%) eyes that had a pupillary block, and only three (10.0%) eyes had plateau iris syndrome as the primary mechanism of AAC. There was a single mechanism in 14 (46.7%) eyes, and there were combined mechanisms in 16 (53.3%) eyes.

Conclusions

The most common mechanism contributing to AAC development in this Thai population was iridolenticular wrapping. From this study, we suggest that iridolenticular wrapping was the most common hidden mechanism beyond pupillary block among Thai patients.
An Experimental Approach to the Investment Timing of Conventional and Organic Hog Farmers
Authors: Vollmer Elisabeth , Hermann Daniel , Musshoff Oliver
Published: October 2016

Politicians throughout the European Union support the extension of organic farming. Nevertheless, farmers are reluctant to invest in organic farming. Because nonmonetary aspects might be the reasons for this reluctance, this paper analyzes whether the farmers’ investment behavior varies when given the option to invest in organic and conventional production methods. For this purpose, an incentivized experiment was conducted wherein conventional and organic hog farmers had the opportunity to consecutively invest in an organic and a conventional hog barn. Then, it was determined whether the farmers’ investment timings differed between investments in the currently applied production method and the currently not‐applied production method. These investment situations only differed in their description; the economic conditions were identical. The farmers’ investment times in both production methods were compared to theoretically optimal investment times according to the real options approach (ROA). The results of the analysis show that a significant framing effect was associated with farmers’ response to investment opportunities in organic and conventional hog barns. Farmers invested later if they invested in the currently not‐applied production method. In these cases, the deviations between the ROA and the farmers’ investment time were lower.Les politiciens de l'Union européenne appuient l'expansion de l'agriculture biologique. Pourtant, les éleveurs hésitent à s'y investir. Puisque des facteurs non économiques pourraient expliquer cette réticence, cet article analyse les variations des décisions d'investissement des producteurs à qui l'on offre un investissement dans les méthodes de production biologiques et classiques. À cette fin, une expérience incitative a été menée où les éleveurs de porcs se voyaient offrir l'occasion d'investir en succession dans une porcherie biologique et une classique. Ensuite, l'on a évalué si le calendrier d'investissements des producteurs différait en fonction de la méthode actuelle de production et celle qui n'est pas actuellement en usage. Ces situations d'investissement ne différaient que par leur description, les modalités économiques étant identiques. Les calendriers d'investissements des éleveurs utilisant les deux méthodes de production ont été comparés en fonction de l'approche des options réelles. Les résultats de l'analyse montrent qu'un effet significatif de formulation s'associe aux réactions des éleveurs vis‐à‐vis des occasions d'investissements dans des porcheries biologiques et classiques. Les producteurs de porcs ont investi plus tard s'ils investissaient dans la méthode de production dont il ne se servait actuellement pas. Dans ces cas, l′écart entre l'option réelle et le calendrier de l′éleveur s'avérait moins grand.
Impact of biomaterial microtopography on bone regeneration: comparison of three hydroxyapatites
Authors: Lambert France , Bacevic Miljana , Layrolle Pierre , Schüpbach Peter , Drion Pierre , Rompen Eric
Published: October 2016

Aims

The primary objective of this study was to compare the in vivo performance, namely in terms of quantity of newly formed bone and bone‐to‐material contact (osteoconductivity), of three hydroxyapatite‐based biomaterials (HA) of different origins (natural or synthetic) or manufacturing process in a sinus lift model in rabbits. The secondary objective was to correlate the findings with the physical and topographical characteristics of the biomaterials.

Materials and Methods

Two bovine HA manufactured with different processes (bovine hydroxyapatites [BHA] and cuttlebone hydroxyapatite [CBHA]) and a synthetic hydroxyapatite (SHA) sintered at high temperature were characterised with scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) and the measurement of specific surface area (BET). The materials were implanted in a sinus lift model in rabbits; histological and histomorphometric evaluation using non‐decalcified sections was performed at 1, 5 and 12 weeks after implantation.

Results

The studied biomaterials displayed a different surface topography. The two natural HA displayed significantly higher bone quantities (P = 0.0017; BHA vs. SHA, P = 0.0018 and CBHA vs. SHA, P = 0.033) at 5 and 12 weeks compared to the synthetic one (SHA). Moreover, the osteoconductivity (bone‐to‐material contact) was significantly higher in the BHA group compared to the two other groups (P = 0.014; BHA vs. SHA, P = 0.023 and BHA vs. CBHA, P = 0.033).

Conclusion

HA‐based biomaterials from diverse origins and manufacturing processes displayed different topographical characteristics. This may have influenced different regenerated bone architecture observed; more bone was found with natural HA compared to the synthetic one, and significantly higher bone‐to‐material contacts were found with BHA.
Molecular evidence supports the recognition ofEpitrix papaas a distinct species fromEpitrix similaris
Authors: Mouttet R. , Streito J.‐C. , Genson G. , Germain J.‐F.
Published: October 2016

Following the description of the speciesEpitrix papaOrlova‐Bienkowskaja, 2015, which was previously misidentified in the EPPO region asE. similarisGentner, 1944, the authors assessed the mitochondrial cytochromecoxidase I (COI) sequence divergence between specimens ofE. papafrom Portugal andE. similarisfrom California. This study strongly supports the recognition ofE. papaas a distinct species fromE. similaris. It also complements existing genetic studies on the molecular identification ofEpitrixpotato flea beetles (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) by making theE. similaris COIsequence publicly available.
Prioritising culvert removals to restore habitat for at‐risk salmonids in the boreal forest
Authors: Maitland B. M. , Poesch M. , Anderson A. E.
Published: October 2016

In the boreal forests of Canada, industrial development has resulted in the installation of thousands of culverted road crossings that act as barriers to fish movement and degrade habitat for native freshwater fishes. In view of culvert removals being expensive, prioritisation methods have been developed, but the efficacy of such methods has not been thoroughly investigated nor have they been tested on low‐gradient boreal forest watersheds containing at‐risk salmonids. The management utility of a novel GIS‐based optimisation‐planning tool to prioritise fish barrier remediation was tested in two highly developed watersheds. Region‐specific parameter estimates of monetary variables (e.g. budget, individual barrier remediation costs), barrier passability and biologically relevant information for species on conservation concern (e.g. habitat suitability, dispersal ability) were incorporated. Results indicate that for Arctic grayling,Thymallus arcticusPallas, and bull trout,Salvelinus confluentusSuckley, a large proportion (~61–83%) of currently isolated habitat can be reconnected with low investment (~$200–$500 K). This study demonstrates the management utility of barrier optimisation methods for use in boreal watersheds, particularly as it significantly reduces the technical expertise needed to perform relatively complex optimisation analyses.
Impact of electric fishing on egg survival of whitefish, Coregonus lavaretus
Authors: Oberlercher T. M. , Wanzenböck J.
Published: October 2016

Previous studies on the effects of electrofishing on fish eggs have reported widely varying results, ranging from gentle to adverse impacts on egg survival rates, and this may be attributable to inadequately standardised assessment methods. The impact of electrofishing on the survival of European whitefish, Coregonus lavaretus L., eggs was analysed in laboratory experiments and in a comparative field study. Different anode distances and time points post‐treatment were evaluated after artificial fertilisation with milt of untreated males, and survival rates were determined in the morula stage. In the laboratory, no significant difference in survival rates was found between various time points of stripping the gametes post‐electric shock. In the treatment group, significantly lower survival rates were detected in eggs (98.6%; SE = 0.20%) compared to the control group (99.6%; SE = 0.11%). Analysis of the egg survival rates in relation to effective voltage, rather than anode distance, revealed a significant trend of declining survival with increasing effective voltage. In field studies, eggs of electroshocked fish showed significantly lower survival (94.8%; SE = 1.03%) than untreated controls (98.7%; SE = 0.38%). Although electrofishing enhanced egg mortality, overall survival was noticeably high (>90%), indicating a relatively small impact.
Time and Magnitude of Peak Concentration of Reactive Groundwater Contaminants Discharged to a River
Authors: Taylor Stewart W. , Guha Hillol
Published: October 2016

An analytical solution for calculating the contaminant discharge rate in an aquifer following an instantaneous release of reactive contaminant mass to groundwater is used to derive relationships for the time and magnitude of peak concentration in a river receiving the transported material. Relationships are developed for the time of peak concentration relative to the time of travel for the contaminant, and the magnitude of peak concentration relative to the concentration calculated at the time of travel. Both quantities are found to be a function of two dimensionless parameters characterizing advective‐dispersive‐reactive transport—the Peclet number and the Damkohler number. It is shown that the time to peak concentration may occur before the time of travel, considering advection and retardation only, depending on the magnitudes of the Peclet and Damkohler numbers. Similarly, the magnitude of peak concentration may exceed the concentration calculated assuming that the time of peak concentration coincides with time of travel for the contaminant. For large Damkohler numbers, equating the time of peak concentration with the time of travel for the contaminant can significantly underestimate peak concentrations.
Hormonal Contraceptives and Migraine With Aura—Is There Still a Risk?
Authors: Calhoun Anne H.
Published: October 2016

Unnecessary confusion still surrounds the use of combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs) in the setting of migraine with aura (MwA). Clearing this confusion is a key issue for headache specialists, since most women with migraine have menstrual‐related migraine (MRM), and some CHCs can prevent this particularly severe migraine. Their use, however, is still restricted by current guidelines due to concerns of increased stroke risk – concerns that originated over half a century ago in the era of high dose contraceptives. Yet studies consistently show that stroke risk is not increased with today's very low dose CHCs containing 20‐25 µg ethinyl estradiol (EE), and continuous ultra low‐dose formulations (10‐15 µg EE) may even reduce aura frequency, thereby potentially decreasing stroke risk.

This article clarifies the stroke risk of CHCs and examines their impact on migraine. It also examines how stroke risk is altered by the estrogen content of the CHC, by contributing factors such as smoking, age and hypertension, and by aura frequency. And finally, it puts these risks into a meaningful context with a risk/benefit assessment.
Clinicopathological characteristics and genomic profile of primary sinonasal tract diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) reveals gain at 1q31 and RGS1 encoding protein; high RGS1 immunohistochemical expression associates with poor overall survival in DLBCL not otherwise specified (NOS)
Authors: Carreras Joaquim , Kikuti Yara Y , Beà Sílvia , Miyaoka Masashi , Hiraiwa Shinichiro , Ikoma Haruka , Nagao Ryoko , Tomita Sakura , Martin‐Garcia David , Salaverria Itziar , Sato Ai , Ichiki Akifumi , Roncador Giovanna , Garcia Juan F , Ando Kiyoshi , Campo Elias , Nakamura Naoya
Published: October 2016

Aims

We aimed to define the clinicopathological characteristics of 29 primary sinonasal diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCLsn) in a series of 240 cases of DLBCL not otherwise specified [DLBCLall (NOS)], including DLBCLsn training set (n = 11) and validation set (n = 18), and DLBCLnon‐sn (n = 211).

Methods and results

In the training set, 82% had a non‐germinal center B‐cell‐like (Hans’ Classifier) (non‐GCB) phenotype and 18% were Epstein–Barr virus‐encoded small RNAs (EBER)+. The genomic profile showed gains(+) of 1q21.3q31.2 (55%), 10q24.1 (46%), 11q14.1 (46%) and 18q12.1q23 (46%); losses(−) of 6q26q27 (55%) and 9p21.3 (64%); and copy number neutral loss of heterozygosity (LOH) (acquired uniparental disomy, UPD) at 6p25.3p21.31 (36%). This profile is comparable to DLBCLNOS (GSE11318, n = 203.) and closer to non‐GCB/activated B‐cell‐like subtype (ABC). Nevertheless, +1q31, −9p21.3 and −10q11.1q26.2 were more characteristic of DLBCLsn (P < 0.001). Array results were verified successfully by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) on +1q21.3 (CKS1B), −6q26 (PARK2), +8q24.21 (MYC), −9p21.3 (MTAP, CDKN2A/B), −17p13.1 (TP53) and +18q21.33 (BCL2) with 82–91% agreement. Minimal common regions included biologically relevant genes of MNDA (+1q23.1), RGS1 and RGS13 (+1q31.2), FOXP1 (+3p13), PRDM1 (BLIMP1) and PARK2 (−6q21q26), MYC (+8q24.21), CDKN2A (−9p21.3), PTEN (−10q23.31), MDM2 (+12q15), TP53 (−17p13.1) and BCL2 (+18q21.33). Correlation between DNA copy number and protein immunohistochemistry was confirmed for RGS1, RGS13, FOXP1, PARK2 and BCL2. The microenvironment had high infiltration of M2‐like tumour associated macrophages (TAMs) and CD8+T lymphocytes that associated with higher genomic instability. The DLBCLsn validation set confirmed the clinicopathological characteristics, all FISH loci and immunohistochemistry (IHC) for RGS1. RGS1, one of the most frequently altered genes, was analysed by IHC in DLBCLall and high RGS1 expression associated with non‐GCB, EBER+ and unfavourable overall survival (hazard ratio = 1.794; P = 0.016).

Conclusions

DLBCLsn has a characteristic genomic profile. High RGS1 IHC expression associates with poor overall survival in DLBCLall (NOS).
A scoping review of root canal revascularization: relevant aspects for clinical success and tissue formation
Authors: Conde M. C. M. , Chisini L. A. , Sarkis‐Onofre R. , Schuch H. S. , Nör J. E. , Demarco F. F.
Published: October 2016

The aim of this scoping study was to evaluate the survival rate and nature of tissue formed inside root canals of human immature permanent teeth with necrotic pulps (NIPT) under root canal revascularization (RCR). The search was performed in SciVerse Scopus®, PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science®, BIREME and in the grey literature up to November 2015. The keywords were selected using MeSH terms and DECs. Two independent reviewers scrutinized the records obtained considering specific inclusion criteria. The included studies were evaluated in accordance with a modified Arksey and O’ Malley's framework. From 375 studies that were evaluated, 75 were included. A total of 367 NIPT were submitted to RCR, from which only 21 needed further endodontic treatment. The weighted mean follow‐up time was 17.6 months. The data were derived mainly from case reports (69%) or small case series (15%). NaOCl [0.5–6%] was applied as the disinfecting solution in almost all studies. Triple antibiotic paste was as effective as Ca(OH)2 as on intracanal medicament. De novo tissue was cementum and poorly mineralized bone positive to bone sialoprotein (BSP) but negative to dentine sialoprotein (DSP). Failures were associated mainly with reinfection of the root canal. The majority of included studies reported a significant increase in both root length and width. However, as most of these data came from case reports, they must be interpreted with care, as most were focused on treatment successes (not failures). Therefore, well‐designed randomized controlled trials comparing RCR with available apexification treatments are needed to address this gap in the literature.
Consumer education and empowerment in Europe: recent developments in policy and practice
Authors: Brennan Carol , Vlaev Ivo , Blakemore Michael , Smith Nicola
Published: October 2016

This article develops the findings of an evaluation of European Commission consumer education, information and capacity building actions conducted in 2011, with an examination of action taken by 2016 to address the recommendations. Based on empirical research of documents, in‐depth interviews, focus groups and semi‐structured surveys of Directorate General for Health and Consumers and Directorate General for Education and Culture policy networks, it discusses the journey taken to improve consumer education and empowerment throughout Europe. Implementation of the recommendations aims to transform consumer education and empowerment in Europe, with integrated and updated resources for the maximum number of teachers across the European Union, where teachers can focus the resources on consumer education activities relevant for their learners. A key focus of the new developments is to deliver higher European Union (pan‐European) added‐value, better coordination and synergies with national activities.
Human leucocyte antigen class I and II imputation in a multiracial population
Authors: Kuniholm M. H. , Xie X. , Anastos K. , Xue X. , Reimers L. , French A. L. , Gange S. J. , Kassaye S. G. , Kovacs A. , Wang T. , Aouizerat B. E. , Strickler H. D.
Published: October 2016

Human leucocyte antigen (HLA) genes play a central role in response to pathogens and in autoimmunity. Research to understand the effects of HLA genes on health has been limited because HLA genotyping protocols are labour intensive and expensive. Recently, algorithms to impute HLA genotype data using genome‐wide association study (GWAS) data have been published. However, imputation accuracy for most of these algorithms was based primarily on training data sets of European ancestry individuals. We considered performance of two HLA‐dedicated imputation algorithms – SNP2HLA and HIBAG – in a multiracial population of n = 1587 women with HLA genotyping data by gold standard methods. We first compared accuracy – defined as the percentage of correctly predicted alleles – of HLA‐B and HLA‐C imputation using SNP2HLA and HIBAG using a breakdown of the data set into an 80% training group and a 20% testing group. Estimates of accuracy for HIBAG were either the same or better than those for SNP2HLA. We then conducted a more thorough test of HIBAG imputation accuracy using five independent 10‐fold cross‐validation procedures with delineation of ancestry groups using ancestry informative markers. Overall accuracy for HIBAG was 89%. Accuracy by HLA gene was 93% for HLA‐A, 84% for HLA‐B, 94% for HLA‐C, 83% for HLA‐DQA1, 91% for HLA‐DQB1 and 88% for HLA‐DRB1. Accuracy was highest in the African ancestry group (the largest group) and lowest in the Hispanic group (the smallest group). Despite suboptimal imputation accuracy for some HLA gene/ancestry group combinations, the HIBAG algorithm has the advantage of providing posterior estimates of accuracy which enable the investigator to analyse subsets of the population with high predicted (e.g. >95%) imputation accuracy.
A dual purpose universal influenza vaccine candidate confers protective immunity against anthrax
Authors: Arévalo Maria T. , Li Junwei , Diaz‐Arévalo Diana , Chen Yanping , Navarro Ashley , Wu Lihong , Yan Yongyong , Zeng Mingtao
Published: October 2016

Preventive influenza vaccines must be reformulated annually because of antigen shift and drift of circulating influenza viral strains. However, seasonal vaccines do not always match the circulating strains, and there is the ever‐present threat that avian influenza viruses may adapt to humans. Hence, a universal influenza vaccine is needed to provide protective immunity against a broad range of influenza viruses. We designed an influenza antigen consisting of three tandem M2e repeats plus HA2, in combination with a detoxified anthrax oedema toxin delivery system (EFn plus PA) to enhance immune responses. The EFn‐3×M2e‐HA2 plus PA vaccine formulation elicited robust, antigen‐specific, IgG responses; and was protective against heterologous influenza viral challenge when intranasally delivered to mice three times. Moreover, use of the detoxified anthrax toxin system as an adjuvant had the additional benefit of generating protective immunity against anthrax. Hence, this novel vaccine strategy could potentially address two major emerging public health and biodefence threats.
Substitution behavior of Ag atoms in the Ti2AlC ceramic
Authors: Lu Chengjie , Wang Guochao , Yang Guang , Fan Guohua , Zhang Jie , Liu Xiaowen
Published: October 2016

In this study, the substitution behavior of Ag atoms in the Ti2AlC ceramic was investigated using high‐angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF‐STEM). The TEM sample of the Ag/Ti2AlC interaction area was prepared following the wetting experiment, which was carried out at 1030°C for 5 minute using the sessile drop method. The Ag “single atoms” or “nanoclusters” were found in the crystal lattice of Ti2AlC substrate. The characterizations along two typical crystallographic orientations suggest that both the Ti and Al atoms could be substituted by Ag atoms during the wetting process. In addition, the substitution behavior would contribute to the lattice expansion, which was coordinated by elastic distortion in the Ag nanoclusters with small size. However, when the Ag nanoclusters exceeded the critical size, the intact Ti2AlC structure could no more sustain and defects like stacking faults formed, based on which the Ag nanotwins or polycrystals nucleated.
(Pb,Sm)(Zr,Sn,Ti)O3 Multifunctional Ceramics with Large Electric‐Field‐Induced Strain and High‐Energy Storage Density
Authors: Zhang Qingfeng , Chen Jian , Lu Yinmei , Yang Tongqing , Yao Xi , He Yunbin
Published: October 2016

Recently, the progress of integrated electronics has led to a strong demand for materials and devices with multiple functions. In this study, we achieved Pb0.985Sm0.01 (Zr0.64Sn0.28Ti0.08)O3 (PSZST) multifunctional ceramics which showed simultaneously large electric‐field‐induced strain (0.63%) and high recoverable energy density (1.743 J/cm3) at room temperature. Moreover, the strain and recoverable energy density exhibited a slight frequency fluctuation in the frequency range of 1–10 Hz. Their variations were less than 8% and 1.3% and the values were all higher than 0.58% and 1.722 J/cm3, respectively. The large strain, high‐energy density, and their good frequency stability in a wide range indicate that the PSZST ceramic is quite promising for application in multifunctional devices.
Cold sintering process for ZrO2‐based ceramics: significantly enhanced densification evolution in yttria‐doped ZrO2
Authors: Guo Hanzheng , Guo Jing , Baker Amanda , Randall Clive A.
Published: October 2016

We recently developed a novel technique of cold sintering process (CSP) to obtain dense ceramics at extraordinarily low temperatures. In this communication, we demonstrate the feasibility of applying CSP to zirconia‐based ceramics. As exemplified by 3Y‐TZP ceramics, a significantly enhanced densification evolution is observed. Water is simply utilized as a sintering aid to assist the ceramic densification under an applied external pressure. The low‐temperature advantage of CSP outstands in contrast to the densification curves compiled from other sintering techniques. A gradual monoclinic‐to‐tetragonal phase transformation is revealed in correspondence to the densification development, as well as contributes to the mechanical hardness evolution. A Vickers Hardness reaches ~10.5 GPa after annealing the cold‐sintered ceramics at 1100°C, which is comparable to those values reported in the previous studies at higher sintering temperatures. Such a sintering methodology is of significant importance as it provides a roadmap for cost‐effective processing of zirconia‐based ceramics and composites that enable broad practical applications.
Filled oxygen‐deficient strontium barium niobates
Authors: Chan Jason H. , Bock Jonathan A. , Guo Hanzheng , Trolier‐McKinstry Susan , Randall Clive A.
Published: October 2016

Filled strontium barium niobate (SBN, SrxBa6−xNb10O30−δ) compositions from the barium end‐member to a Sr:Ba ratio of 80:20 were fabricated using conventional sintering under oxygen‐deficient conditions. Single‐phase specimens were obtained when sintered at 1350°C under a reducing condition of about 1.0 × 10−16 atmpO2. X‐ray diffraction and energy dispersive spectroscopy using scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy were used to confirm the phase‐purity. Lattice parameters derived from Rietveld refinements were used to trace Vegard's Law over the solid solution. It was found that Vegard's Law is followed over two ranges, which is believed to be due to preferential site occupancy of the A sites as the Sr content changes. The successful fabrication of filledSBNbronzes provides an avenue for correlating trends in electrical characteristics of theSBNsolid solution.