bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial scale drives patterns in soil bacterial diversity
Authors: O'Brien Sarah L. , Gibbons Sean M. , Owens Sarah M. , Hampton‐Marcell Jarrad , Johnston Eric R. , Jastrow Julie D. , Gilbert Jack A. , Meyer Folker , Antonopoulos Dionysios A.
Published: February 2016

Soil microbial communities are essential for ecosystem function, but linking community composition to biogeochemical processes is challenging because of high microbial diversity and large spatial variability of most soil characteristics. We investigated soil bacterial community structure in a switchgrass stand planted on soil with a history of grassland vegetation at high spatial resolution to determine whether biogeographic trends occurred at the centimeter scale. Moreover, we tested whether such heterogeneity, if present, influenced community structure within or among ecosystems. Pronounced heterogeneity was observed at centimeter scales, with abrupt changes in relative abundance of phyla from sample to sample. At the ecosystem scale (> 10 m), however, bacterial community composition and structure were subtly, but significantly, altered by fertilization, with higher alpha diversity in fertilized plots. Moreover, by comparing these data with data from 1772 soils from the Earth Microbiome Project, it was found that 20% of bacterial taxa were shared between their site and diverse globally sourced soil samples, while grassland soils shared approximately 40% of their operational taxonomic units with the current study. By spanning several orders of magnitude, the analysis suggested that extreme patchiness characterized community structure at smaller scales but that coherent patterns emerged at larger length scales.
Thiosulfate oxidation by Thiomicrospira thermophila: metabolic flexibility in response to ambient geochemistry
Authors: Houghton J. L. , Foustoukos D. I. , Flynn T. M. , Vetriani C. , Bradley Alexander S. , Fike D. A.
Published: February 2016

Previous studies of the stoichiometry of thiosulfate oxidation by colorless sulfur bacteria have failed to demonstrate mass balance of sulfur, indicating that unidentified oxidized products must be present. Here the reaction stoichiometry and kinetics under variable pH conditions during the growth of Thiomicrospira thermophila strain EPR85, isolated from diffuse hydrothermal fluids at the East Pacific Rise, is presented. At pH 8.0, thiosulfate was stoichiometrically converted to sulfate. At lower pH, the products of thiosulfate oxidation were extracellular elemental sulfur and sulfate. We were able to replicate previous experiments and identify the missing sulfur as tetrathionate, consistent with previous reports of the activity of thiosulfate dehydrogenase. Tetrathionate was formed under slightly acidic conditions. Genomic DNA from T. thermophila strain EPR85 contains genes homologous to those in the Sox pathway (soxAXYZBCDL), as well as rhodanese and thiosulfate dehydrogenase. No other sulfur oxidizing bacteria containing sox(CD)2 genes have been reported to produce extracellular elemental sulfur. If the apparent modified Sox pathway we observed in T. thermophila is present in marine Thiobacillus and Thiomicrospira species, production of extracellular elemental sulfur may be biogeochemically important in marine sulfur cycling.
Biosynthesis of the acetyl‐CoA carboxylase‐inhibiting antibiotic, andrimid in Serratia is regulated by Hfq and the LysR‐type transcriptional regulator, AdmX
Authors: Matilla Miguel A. , Nogellova Veronika , Morel Bertrand , Krell Tino , Salmond George P. C.
Published: February 2016

Infections due to multidrug‐resistant bacteria represent a major global health challenge. To combat this problem, new antibiotics are urgently needed and some plant‐associated bacteria are a promising source. The rhizobacterium Serratia plymuthica A153 produces several bioactive secondary metabolites, including the anti‐oomycete and antifungal haterumalide, oocydin A and the broad spectrum polyamine antibiotic, zeamine. In this study, we show that A153 produces a second broad spectrum antibiotic, andrimid. Using genome sequencing, comparative genomics and mutagenesis, we defined new genes involved in andrimid (adm) biosynthesis. Both the expression of the adm gene cluster and regulation of andrimid synthesis were investigated. The biosynthetic cluster is operonic and its expression is modulated by various environmental cues, including temperature and carbon source. Analysis of the genome context of the adm operon revealed a gene encoding a predicted LysR‐type regulator, AdmX, apparently unique to Serratia strains. Mutagenesis and gene expression assays demonstrated that AdmX is a transcriptional activator of the adm gene cluster. At the post‐transcriptional level, the expression of the adm cluster is positively regulated by the RNA chaperone, Hfq, in an RpoS‐independent manner. Our results highlight the complexity of andrimid biosynthesis – an antibiotic with potential clinical and agricultural utility.
Effect of interspecific competition on trait variation in Phaeobacter inhibens biofilms
Authors: Lutz Carla , Thomas Torsten , Steinberg Peter , Kjelleberg Staffan , Egan Suhelen
Published: February 2016

Interspecific competition between bacteria shapes community dynamics, causing evolutionary changes that affect life history traits. Here, we studied the role of interspecific competition on the generation of trait diversity using a two‐species model system of marine, surface‐associated bacteria. Bacterial biofilms of Phaeobacter inhibens were established alone or in competition with Pseudoalteromonas tunicata and phenotypic traits of dispersal cells were assessed during biofilm development. P. inhibens dispersal isolates from competition biofilms displayed less phenotypic variation, were superior competitors, were less susceptible to predation, and reached higher planktonic biomass than isolates from noncompetition biofilms. Moreover, the maintenance of competitive ability exhibited by individual dispersal isolates from competition biofilms did not result in an obvious reduction (measured as a negative trait correlation) in other traits, but was rather positively correlated with planktonic growth. However, where negative correlations between traits were found, they were exhibited by individuals derived from noncompetitive biofilms, whose populations also had a higher degree of trait variation than those from biofilms experiencing competition. Our observations indicate that interspecific competition during biofilm formation is important for maintaining both competitive ability and affects variation in ecologically relevant traits. Given that most bacteria in biofilms exist in diverse, multispecies communities, an understanding of how bacteria respond to biotic factors such as interspecific competition is critical for understanding the dynamics of bacterial populations in both ecological and evolutionary time.
A Retrospective Demographic and Clinicopathologic Review of Deaths Resulting from Minefield Explosions During Migrants’ Attempts to Enter Greece from Turkey Between 1997 and 2008
Authors: Pavlidis Pavlos , Karakasi Valeria
Published: February 2016

Until 2008, the easternmost land borders of the European Union (Greek‐Turkish land zone) were planted with minefields spanning 11 km. Therefore, numerous fatalities occurred in peacetime as migrants attempted to avoid Greek border checks. Numerous fatal incidents (51) were detected inside the Greek minefields between 1997 and 2008. Determination of age, sex, time of death, and nationality were evaluated in every case. The injuries’ anatomical dispersion, their severity, and the mechanism of death were examined in relation to the victims’ position at the moment of the explosion. Data research indicated that all victims were male, aged 18–30 in their majority, crossing border minefields mainly during the night. Their distance and position in relation to the point of detonation was a key factor in the trauma localization and severity. This review highlights the devastating consequences of the residual mines during peacetime, a situation that continues to be a persistent international problem.
Inflammatory bowel diseases and Takayasu's arteritis: coincidence or association?
Authors: Kilic Levent , Kalyoncu Umut , Karadag Omer , Akdogan Ali , Dogan Ismail , Bilgen Sule Apras , Kiraz Sedat , Ertenli Ihsan
Published: February 2016

Background

Takayasu's arteritis (TA) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are rare diseases but there are case reports presenting their co‐existence in the literature. The aim of this study was to investigate the relation between IBD and TA.

Methods

We studied 52 consecutive TA patients (90.3% female); medical records of the patients were analyzed retrospectively and serum samples were taken during the control visits for anti‐neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) and anti‐saccharomyces antibody (ASCA) tests.

Results

Overall three (5.8%) of 52 patients had both IBD and TA. All were first diagnosed as IBD and the period between the diagnosis of IBD and TA was 9, 30 and 60 months, respectively. The age at diagnosis of TA was younger for the patients with IBD as compared to TA patients without IBD, but the difference was not statistically significant. Two patients had type‐5 and one had type‐2a TA. In 92 participants (52 with TA and 40 healthy controls) none had positive results for ANCA or ASCA.

Conclusion

Anti‐saccharomyces antibody and ANCA tests are not useful for predicting the association between TA and IBD. On the other hand, both diseases have similar patient characteristics and pathophysiology which make us suspect that there may be an interaction. If a patient with IBD under immunosuppressive treatment has ongoing symptoms such as fever, weight loss, hypertension or high acute phase reactants, TA may be the cause. Further trials are needed but their coexistence cannot be explained as incidental.
False‐negative Interpretations of Cranial Computed Tomography in Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Mark Dustin G. , Sonne D. Christian , Jun Peter , Schwartz David T. , Kene Mamata V. , Vinson David R. , Ballard Dustin W.
Published: February 2016

Objectives

Prior studies examining the sensitivity of cranial computed tomography (CT) for the detection of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) have used the final radiology report as the reference standard. However, optimal sensitivity may have been underestimated due to misinterpretation of reportedly normal cranial CTs. This study aims to estimate the incidence of missed CT evidence of SAH among a cohort of patients with aneurysmal SAH (aSAH).

Methods

We performed a retrospective chart review of emergency department (ED) encounters within an integrated health delivery system between January 2007 and June 2013 to identify patients diagnosed with aSAH. All initial noncontrast CTs from aSAH cases diagnosed by lumbar puncture (LP) and angiography following a reportedly normal noncontrast cranial CT (CT‐negative aSAH) were then reviewed in a blinded, independent fashion by two board‐certified neuroradiologists to assess for missed evidence of SAH. Reviewers rated the CT studies as having definite evidence of SAH, probable evidence of SAH, or no evidence of SAH. Control patients who underwent a negative evaluation for aSAH based on cranial CT and LP results were also included at random in the imaging review cohort.

Results

A total of 452 cases of aSAH were identified; 18 (4%) were cases of CT‐negative aSAH. Of these, seven (39%) underwent cranial CT within 6 hours of headache onset, and two (11%) had their initial CTs formally interpreted by board‐certified neuroradiologists. Blinded independent CT review revealed concordant agreement for either definite or probable evidence of SAH in nine of 18 (50%) cases overall and in five of the seven (71%) CTs performed within 6 hours of headache onset. Inter‐rater agreement was 83% for definite SAH and 72% for either probable or definite SAH.

Conclusions

CT evidence of SAH was frequently present but unrecognized according to the final radiology report in cases of presumed CT‐negative aSAH. This finding may help explain some of the discordance between prior studies examining the sensitivity of cranial CT for SAH.
Helminths are positively associated with atopy and wheeze in Ugandan fishing communities: results from a cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Webb E. L. , Nampijja M. , Kaweesa J. , Kizindo R. , Namutebi M. , Nakazibwe E. , Oduru G. , Kabubi P. , Kabagenyi J. , Nkurunungi G. , Kizito D. , Muhangi L. , Akello M. , Verweij J. J. , Nerima B. , Tukahebwa E. , Elliott A. M. ,   the LaVIISWA trial team
Published: February 2016

Background

Parasitic helminths are potent immunomodulators and chronic infections may protect against allergy‐related disease and atopy. We conducted a cross‐sectional survey to test the hypothesis that in heavily helminth‐exposed fishing villages on Lake Victoria, Uganda, helminth infections would be inversely associated with allergy‐related conditions.

Methods

A household survey was conducted as baseline to an anthelminthic intervention trial. Outcomes were reported wheeze in last year, atopy assessed both by skin prick test (SPT) and by the measurement of allergen‐specific IgE to dust mites and cockroach in plasma. Helminth infections were ascertained by stool, urine and haemoparasitology. Associations were examined using multivariable regression.

Results

Two thousand three hundred and sixteen individuals were surveyed. Prevalence of reported wheeze was 2% in under‐fives and 5% in participants ≥5 years; 19% had a positive SPT; median Dermatophagoides‐specific IgE and cockroach‐specific IgE were 1440 and 220 ng/ml, respectively. S. mansoni, N. americanus, S. stercoralis, T. trichiura, M. perstans and A. lumbricoides prevalence was estimated as 51%, 22%, 12%, 10%, 2% and 1%, respectively. S. mansoni was positively associated with Dermatophagoides‐specific IgE [adjusted geometric mean ratio (aGMR) (95% confidence interval) 1.64 (1.23, 2.18)]; T. trichiura with SPT [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.08 (1.38, 3.15)]; M. perstans with cockroach‐specific IgE [aGMR 2.37 (1.39, 4.06)], A. lumbricoides with wheeze in participants ≥5 years [aOR 6.36 (1.10, 36.63)] and with Dermatophagoides‐specific IgE [aGMR 2.34 (1.11, 4.95)]. No inverse associations were observed.

Conclusions

Contrary to our hypothesis, we found little evidence of an inverse relationship between helminths and allergy‐related outcomes, but strong evidence that individuals with certain helminths were more prone to atopy in this setting.
Dual‐role FilmArray® diagnostics for high‐impact viral diseases
Authors: Dorsch M , Meehan B , Michalski WP , Heine HG , Foord AJ , Carlile G , Wang J , McCullough S , Zuelke K
Published: February 2016

In this study, we explored the potential utility of the human‐focused FilmArray® Respiratory Panel for the diagnosis of a broad range of influenza viruses of veterinary concern as compared with the standard portfolio of recommended TaqMan®‐based diagnostic tests. In addition, we discuss some potential operational advantages associated with the use of such integrated sample extraction, amplification and analysis devices in the context of a future long‐term, dual‐role strategy for the detection of emergency diseases of both human and veterinary concern.
Myricetin Selectively Induces Apoptosis on Cancerous Hepatocytes by Directly Targeting Their Mitochondria
Authors: Seydi Enayatollah , Rasekh Hamid Reza , Salimi Ahmad , Mohsenifar Zhaleh , Pourahmad Jalal
Published: February 2016

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third most common cause of cancer‐related death. In patients for whom HCC could not be detected early, current treatments show poor tolerance and low efficacy. So, alternative therapies with good efficacy are urgently needed. The aim of this research was to evaluate the selective apoptotic effects of myricetin (MYR), a flavonoid compound, on hepatocytes and mitochondria obtained from the liver of HCC rats. In this study, HCC induced by diethylnitrosamine (DEN), as an initiator, and 2‐acetylaminofluorene (2‐AAF), as a promoter. To confirm the HCC induction, serum levels of alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP), AST, AST and ALP and histopathological changes in the liver tissue were evaluated. Rat liver hepatocytes and mitochondria for evaluation of the selective cytotoxic effects of MYR were isolated, and mitochondrial and cellular parameters related to apoptosis signalling were then determined. Our results showed that MYR was able to induce cytotoxicity only in hepatocytes from the HCC but not from the untreated control group. Besides, MYR (12.5, 25 and 50 μM) induced a considerable increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, mitochondrial swelling, mitochondrial membrane permeabilization (MMP) and cytochrome c release only in cancerous but not in untreated normal hepatocyte mitochondria. MYR selectively increased caspase‐3 activation and apoptotic phenotypes in HCC, but not untreated normal hepatocytes. Finally, our finding underlines MYR as a promising therapeutic candidate against HCC and recommends the compound for further studies.
Factors predicting progression to castrate‐resistant prostate cancer in patients with advanced prostate cancer receiving long‐term androgen‐deprivation therapy
Authors: de la Taille Alexandre , Martínez‐Piñeiro Luis , Cabri Patrick , Houchard Aude , Schalken Jack ,   the Triptocare LT Study Group
Published: February 2016

Objectives

To assess time to progression to castrate‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) and factors influencing longer‐term outcomes in patients receiving androgen‐deprivation therapy (ADT) in an extension to the Triptocare study (NCT01020448). This is pertinent as the Triptocare study did not show that urinary prostate cancer antigen‐3 (PCA3) score was a reliable marker of cancer stage in advanced prostate cancer and was not useful for assessing response 6 months after initiation of ADT with triptorelin 22.5 mg.

Patients and Methods

An international, multicentre, non‐interventional, observational, longitudinal, prospective study involving patients from the Triptocare study. CRPC status of patients was collected for up to 3 years from ADT initiation. Patient treatment and assessments were at the investigator's discretion. Co‐primary endpoints were rate of CRPC at 3 years after initiating ADT and the median time to CRPC. An exploratory endpoint was the association of Triptocare baseline variables (including TMPRSS2‐ERG and PCA3 scores) and PCA3 score at Triptocare last value available with CRPC onset.

Results

Of the 325 patients in the Triptocare study safety population, 180 patients were enrolled in the Triptocare LT study (102 received continuous and 78 received intermittent ADT). CRPC rates at 3 years were 24/102 (23.5%) and 6/78 (7.7%) patients in the continuous and intermittent ADT groups, respectively. The median time to CRPC was not reached for either group. PCA3 score status at baseline was the only variable associated with a higher risk of progression to CRPC in both the intermittent and continuous ADT groups; compared with a baseline PCA3 score of ≥35, a PCA3 score below the level of quantification had a hazard ratio (HR) of 20.04 ([95% confidence interval (CI) 2.71–148.34] and a HR of 9.44 [95% CI 2.39–37.27], respectively). Baseline metastatic disease and testosterone level were additionally associated with progression to CRPC in the continuous ADT population (HR 5.20, 95% CI 1.68–16.06 and HR 0.995, 95% CI 0.991–0.999, respectively).

Conclusion

In men with locally advanced or metastatic prostate cancer, a PCA3 score of ≥35 at the time of initiating ADT may predict a lower risk of developing CRPC in the following 3 years.
Evidence of central Alpine glacier advances during the Younger Dryas–early Holocene transition period
Authors: Moran Andrew P. , Ivy‐Ochs Susan , Schuh Michael , Christl Markus , Kerschner Hanns
Published: February 2016

The transition phase from Lateglacial to Holocene climate conditions was accompanied by a pronounced reorganization of climate patterns in the Northern Hemisphere. Evidence of Alpine palaeoglaciers provides a basis for understanding climate downturns during a time of generally warming conditions. In this context a series of well‐preserved and previously undated moraines were investigated in the small Falgin cirque located in the central Alpine Langtaufers Valley (South Tyrol, Italy) and in the neighbouring Hinteres Bergle cirque of the Radurschl Valley (North Tyrol, Austria). Both localities are situated in the driest area of the eastern Alps. They lie well above prominent moraines associated with the Younger Dryas (YD) cold phase and represent the first moraines below Little Ice Age (LIA) positions. The corresponding equilibrium line altitude of the palaeoglaciers in both cirques was 100–120 m lower than during the LIA. Surface exposure dating (10Be) of the inner Falgin moraines shows a mean stabilization age of 11.2±0.9 ka, which is similar to the deglaciation age of 10.9±0.8 ka for the Hinteres Bergle cirque. The ages indicate glacier activity most likely during the earliest Holocene or the YD/Holocene transition. These findings point to a climate with mean summer temperatures about 1.5 °C lower than during the 20th century in the Alps.
Expression of Aquaporin 1 and Aquaporin 4 in the Temporal Neocortex of Patients with Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Hoshi Akihiko , Tsunoda Ayako , Tada Mari , Nishizawa Masatoyo , Ugawa Yoshikazu , Kakita Akiyoshi
Published: February 2016

The astrocytic water channel proteins aquaporin 1 (AQP1) and aquaporin 4 (AQP4) are known to be altered in brains affected by several neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease. However, AQP expression in brains affected by Parkinson's disease (PD) has not been described in detail. Recently, it has been reported that α‐synuclein (α‐syn)‐immunolabeled astrocytes show preferential distribution in several cerebral regions, including the neocortex, in patients with PD. Here, we investigated whether AQP expression is associated with α‐syn deposition in the temporal neocortex of PD patients. In accordance with the consensus criteria for dementia with Lewy bodies, the patients were classified into neocortical (PDneo), limbic (PDlim), and brain stem (PDbs) groups. Expressions of α‐syn, AQP1, and AQP4 in the temporal lobes of the individual PD patients were examined immunohistochemically. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated more numerous AQP4‐positive and AQP1‐positive astrocytes in the PDneo group than in the PDbs, PDlim, and control groups. However, in the PDneo cases, these astrocytes were not often observed in α‐syn‐rich areas, and semiquantitative analysis revealed that there was a significant negative correlation between the levels of AQP4 and α‐syn in layers V–VI, and between those of AQP1 and α‐syn in layers II–III. These findings suggest that a defined population of AQP4‐ and AQP1‐expressing reactive astrocytes may modify α‐syn deposition in the neocortex of patients with PD.
Development of DS‐5573a: A novel afucosylated mAb directed at B7‐H3 with potent antitumor activity
Authors: Nagase‐Zembutsu Akiko , Hirotani Kenji , Yamato Michiko , Yamaguchi Junko , Takata Takehiko , Yoshida Makoto , Fukuchi Keisuke , Yazawa Mitsuhiro , Takahashi Shu , Agatsuma Toshinori
Published: February 2016

B7‐H3 is highly overexpressed in a variety of human clinical tumors, and its expression is significantly associated with poor outcomes. In our study, we aimed to develop new antitumor mAbs by employing cancer cell immunization, and succeeded in generating a mouse anti‐human B7‐H3 antibody (M30) that shows antitumor activity. M30 was humanized (Hu‐M30), and an afucosylated Hu‐M30 (DS‐5573a) was also generated. To assess the potency of DS‐5573a as a therapeutic mAb, we characterized this mAb and evaluated its antitumor activity in vitro and in vivo. Flow cytometry analysis showed that B7‐H3 proteins were expressed on various types of cancer cell lines broadly, and DS‐5573a binds to IgC1 and IgC2 domains of human B7‐H3. Antibody‐dependent cellular cytotoxicity activity of DS‐5573a was drastically enhanced against medium to high B7‐H3‐expressing cancer cell lines MDA‐MB‐231 and NCI‐H322. DS‐5573a also induced high antibody‐dependent cellular cytotoxicity activity against low B7‐H3‐expressing cancer cell line COLO205, whereas Hu‐M30 induced little activity against it. In addition, DS‐5573a was found to be a novel anti‐B7‐H3 antibody which showed antibody‐dependent cellular phagocytosis activity. Furthermore, DS‐5573a showed dose‐dependent and significant antitumor efficacy (0.03–3 mg/kg) in MDA‐MB‐231‐bearing SCID mice (which have functional natural killer cells and macrophages), but little antitumor efficacy in NOG mice (which lack natural killer cells and have reduced macrophage function). These results suggest that antitumor activity of DS‐5573a is mediated by effector cells, and this mAb could be a promising antitumor therapy for patients with a wide range of B7‐H3‐expressing tumors.
Arylazolyl(azinyl)thioacetanilides: Part 19: Discovery of Novel Substituted Imidazo[4,5‐b]pyridin‐2‐ylthioacetanilides as Potent HIV NNRTIs Via a Structure‐based Bioisosterism Approach
Authors: Li Xiao , Huang Boshi , Zhou Zhongxia , Gao Ping , Pannecouque Christophe , Daelemans Dirk , De Clercq Erik , Zhan Peng , Liu Xinyong
Published: February 2016

With the continuation of our unremitting efforts toward the discovery of potent HIV‐1 NNRTIs, a series of novel imidazo[4,5‐b]pyridin‐2‐ylthioacetanilides were designed, synthesized, and evaluated for their antiviral activities through combining bioisosteric replacement and structure‐based drug design. Almost all of the title compounds displayed moderate to good activities against wild‐type (wt) HIV‐1 strain with EC50 values ranging from 0.059 to 1.41 μm in a cell‐based antiviral assay. Thereinto, compounds 12 and 13 were the most active two analogues possessing an EC50 value of 0.059 and 0.073 μm against wt HIV‐1, respectively, which was much more effective than the control drug nevirapine (EC50 = 0.26 μm) and comparable to delavirdine (EC50 = 0.038 μm). In addition, one selected compound showed a remarkable reverse transcriptase inhibitory activity compared to nevirapine and etravirine. In the end of this manuscript, preliminary structure–activity relationships (SARs) and molecular modeling studies were detailedly discussed, which may provide valuable insights for further optimization.
Peer violence in foster care: a review of the research evidence
Authors: Lutman Eleanor , Barter Christine
Published: February 2016

Whilst a small amount of research has been undertaken on peer violence in residential settings, very little is known about peer violence in foster care. This paper reviews the published research since 1995 about the nature and extent of peer violence in foster care and interventions for preventing and managing these negative peer interactions. The evidence indicates that young people in foster care can be the instigators and recipients of peer violence, but the limited number of studies found means that conclusions cannot be drawn about the extent of the problem. There is some evidence about the impact of this type of violence on young people and fostering households. However, there remain gaps in the evidence about the full extent of all forms of exploitation and violence that are experienced and instigated by young people in foster care, the circumstances in which it takes place, the young people affected and its co‐occurrence with other difficulties. Critically, young people's views were largely absent from included studies, an important area that requires further research.
Influence of the implant diameter and bone quality on the primary stability of porous tantalum trabecular metal dental implants: an in vitro biomechanical study
Authors: Romanos Georgios E. , Delgado‐Ruiz Rafael Arcesio , Sacks Danielle , Calvo‐Guirado Josè Luis
Published: February 2016

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the primary, initial stability of Porous Tantalum Trabecular Metal™ implants (TM) compared with Tapered Screw Vent® implants (TSV) with different diameters, inserted in two bone densities.

Methods

A total of 160 implants (80 TM and 80 TSV) with narrow (3.7 mm) and conventional (4.1 mm) diameters and the same length (10 mm) were placed in artificial bone blocks representing bone qualities II and IV. The implant stability was evaluated by insertion torque (IT) and Resonance Frequency Analysis. Statistical analysis was performed with non‐parametric Kruskal–Wallis test with Dunn post‐test for the differences between groups.

Results

The results showed higher ISQ values in dense bone compared with soft bone for all the groups (P < 0.05). Conventional‐diameter implants (TSV and TM) showed higher ISQ and IT values compared with narrow implants (TSV and TM) in dense and soft bone (P < 0.05). Tapered TSV implants showed higher stability in soft bone compared with TM implants (P < 0.05). In dense bone, differences were not observed between narrow TSV 3.7 mm and TM 3.7 mm implants (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this study, it can be concluded:

In dense bone blocks, the wider diameter implants are more stable than narrow implants.

In soft bone blocks, the tapered TSV implants are more stable than TM implants.
Robot‐assisted vs laparoscopic ventral rectopexy for external or internal rectal prolapse and enterocele: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mäkelä‐Kaikkonen J. , Rautio T. , Pääkkö E. , Biancari F. , Ohtonen P. , Mäkelä J.
Published: February 2016

Aim

The purpose of this prospective randomized study was to compare robot‐assisted and laparoscopic ventral rectopexy procedures for posterior compartment procidentia in terms of restoration of the anatomy using magnetic resonance (MR) defaecography.

Method

Sixteen female patients (four with total prolapse, twelve with intussusception) underwent robot‐assisted ventral mesh rectopexy (RVMR) and 14 female patients (two with prolapse, twelve with intussusception) laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy (LVMR). Primary outcome measures were perioperative parameters, complications and restoration of anatomy as assessed by MR defaecography, which was performed preoperatively and 3 months after surgery.

Results

Patient demographics, operation length, operating theatre times and length of in‐hospital stay were similar between the groups. The anatomical defects of rectal prolapse, intussusception and rectocele and enterocele were similarly corrected after rectopexy in either technique as confirmed with dynamic MR defaecography. A slight residual intussusception was observed in three patients with primary total prolapse (two RVMR vs one LVMR) and in one patient with primary intussusception (RVMR) (P = 0.60). Rectocele was reduced from a mean of 33.0 ± 14.9 mm to 5.5 ± 8.4 mm after RVMR (P < 0.001) and from 24.7 ± 17.5 mm to 7.2 ± 3.2 mm after LVMR (P < 0.001) (RVMR vs LVMR, P = 0.10).

Conclusion

Robot‐assisted laparoscopic ventral rectopexy can be performed safely and within the same operative time as conventional laparoscopy. Minimally invasive ventral rectopexy allows good anatomical correction as assessed by MR defaecography, with no differences between the techniques.
A comparison of dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry, air displacement plethysmography and A‐mode ultrasound to assess body composition in college‐age adults
Authors: Johnson Kelly E. , Miller Brian , Gibson Ann L. , McLain Trisha A. , Juvancic‐Heltzel Judith A. , Kappler Rachele M. , Otterstetter Ronald
Published: February 2016

Background

There is currently a dearth of scientific literature exploring the agreement of A‐mode ultrasound (US) body composition analysis with dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) and air displacement plethysmography (ADP). Objective: To investigate the agreement of US with DXA and ADP for estimating fat mass (FM) and fat‐free mass (FFM).

Methods

College‐age men (n = 33) and women (n = 41) volunteered to participate in this study. Participants were instructed to adhere to the following pretest protocol: refrain from food and drink 12 h prior to testing and wear tight fitting clothing. Body composition (BCA) was assessed using US, DXA and ADP in accordance with the respective manufacturer's guidelines. Two‐way mixed‐model AVOVA and Bland and Altman techniques were applied to explore agreement for FM and FFM among the three methods: US, ADP and DXA and by sex.

Results

There was no statistically significant effect by sex for either FM or FFM across all BCA comparisons (P = 0·504 and 0·510, respectively). US was not statistically different from ADP for FM and FFM (P ≈ 1·00). However, for FM and FFM, there were significant differences between DXA and both US and ADP (P≤0·001). The Bland and Altman analyses revealed large individual differences for all BCA.

Conclusion

There was statistical agreement between US and ADP for FM and FFM but lack of agreement for US and ADP when compared to DXA. However, the large limits of agreement between methods warrant caution in generalizing these findings.
Detection of germinoma cells in cerebrospinal fluid using Oct4 immunocytochemistry: a case report
Authors: Morooka Y. , Yamazaki K. , Yamada M. , Miyamoto S. , Sota T. , Ishii Y. , Hoya K. , Ishida Y.
Published: February 2016

A single case study showing that identifying nuclear positivity for a monoclonal antibody, OCT14, in large atypical cells in cerebrospinal fluid can be used to diagnose spinal dissemination of an intracranial germinoma.
Subgingival bacterial clusters and serum antibody response as markers of extent and severity of periodontitis in adult Chinese
Authors: Dahlén Gunnar , Luan Wen‐Min , Dahlgren Ulf , Papapanou Panos P. , Baelum Vibeke , Fejerskov Ole
Published: February 2016

This study evaluated the associations between clinical, microbiological, and antibody activity manifestations of periodontitis in 123 adult rural Chinese subjects with no dental intervention. All participants were registered for full‐mouth clinical attachment level (CAL) and pocket probing depth (PD) measurements, and microbial samples were taken from four sites and analyzed for 18 different bacterial species using the ‘checkerboard’. Serum from each individual was analyzed to determine the antibody activity against the same 18 species. Exploratory factor analysis disclosed two microbial factors – Factor 1, consisting of seven species associated with periodontal health (‘early colonizers’); and Factor 2, consisting of eight species associated with periodontitis (‘putative periodontopathogens’) – which explained 87% of the variation among the microbial variables. Factor 2 was consistently associated with disease‐severity measures, whereas the ‘early colonizer’ factor was not. The antibody response showed weak or no correlations with bacterial load or with disease severity. We conclude that the bacteria investigated are resident in the subgingival plaque; that their load and proportions in the pocket may be ecologically driven; and that the antibody response is based on bacterial carrier state rather than on disease. The different antibody‐response pattern found between the individuals may suggest that each individual could be classified as a good or a weak immune responder.
Effects of specimen size on fatigue life of metallic materials in high‐cycle and very‐high‐cycle fatigue regimes
Authors: Sun C. , Zhang X. , Liu X. , Hong Y.
Published: February 2016

This paper proposes a new method to investigate the effect of specimen size on fatigue life of metallic materials in high‐cycle fatigue and very‐high‐cycle fatigue regimes in the light of statistical analysis. The performance of large specimen is correlated with that of small specimen via control volume (a high stress domain where potential fatigue crack initiation sites are located). The simulation results are in good agreement with a series of experimental data in high‐cycle fatigue and very‐high‐cycle fatigue regimes from literature. The method is helpful for a quantitative estimation of fatigue life of large specimens from the experimental data of small specimens.
Structure‐function integrity of the adult hippocampus depends on the transcription factor Bcl11b/Ctip2
Authors: Simon R. , Baumann L. , Fischer J. , Seigfried F. A. , De Bruyckere E. , Liu P. , Jenkins N. A. , Copeland N. G. , Schwegler H. , Britsch S.
Published: February 2016

The dentate gyrus is one of the only two brain regions where adult neurogenesis occurs. Throughout life, cells of the neuronal stem cell niche undergo proliferation, differentiation and integration into the hippocampal neural circuitry. Ongoing adult neurogenesis is a prerequisite for the maintenance of adult hippocampal functionality. Bcl11b, a zinc finger transcription factor, is expressed by postmitotic granule cells in the developing as well as adult dentate gyrus. We previously showed a critical role of Bcl11b for hippocampal development. Whether Bcl11b is also required for adult hippocampal functions has not been investigated. Using a tetracycline‐dependent inducible mouse model under the control of the forebrain‐specific CaMKIIα promoter, we show here that the adult expression of Bcl11b is essential for survival, differentiation and functional integration of adult‐born granule cell neurons. In addition, Bcl11b is required for survival of pre‐existing mature neurons. Consequently, loss of Bcl11b expression selectively in the adult hippocampus results in impaired spatial working memory. Together, our data uncover for the first time a specific role of Bcl11b in adult hippocampal neurogenesis and function.
Global vegetation productivity response to climatic oscillations during the satellite era
Authors: Gonsamo Alemu , Chen Jing M. , Lombardozzi Danica
Published: February 2016

Climate control on global vegetation productivity patterns has intensified in response to recent global warming. Yet, the contributions of the leading internal climatic variations to global vegetation productivity are poorly understood. Here, we use 30 years of global satellite observations to study climatic variations controls on continental and global vegetation productivity patterns. El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phases (La Niña, neutral, and El Niño years) appear to be a weaker control on global‐scale vegetation productivity than previously thought, although continental‐scale responses are substantial. There is also clear evidence that other non‐ENSO climatic variations have a strong control on spatial patterns of vegetation productivity mainly through their influence on temperature. Among the eight leading internal climatic variations, the East Atlantic/West Russia Pattern extensively controls the ensuing year vegetation productivity of the most productive tropical and temperate forest ecosystems of the Earth's vegetated surface through directionally consistent influence on vegetation greenness. The Community Climate System Model (CCSM4) simulations do not capture the observed patterns of vegetation productivity responses to internal climatic variations. Our analyses show the ubiquitous control of climatic variations on vegetation productivity and can further guide CCSM and other Earth system models developments to represent vegetation response patterns to unforced variability. Several winter time internal climatic variation indices show strong potentials on predicting growing season vegetation productivity two to six seasons ahead which enables national governments and farmers forecast crop yield to ensure supplies of affordable food, famine early warning, and plan management options to minimize yield losses ahead of time.
Patient engagement in the process of planning and designing outpatient care improvements at the Veterans Administration Health‐care System: findings from an online expert panel
Authors: Khodyakov Dmitry , Stockdale Susan E. , Smith Nina , Booth Marika , Altman Lisa , Rubenstein Lisa V.
Published: February 2016

Context

There is a strong interest in the Veterans Administration (VA) Health‐care System in promoting patient engagement to improve patient care.

Methods

We solicited expert opinion using an online expert panel system with a modified Delphi structure called ExpertLens™. Experts reviewed, rated and discussed eight scenarios, representing four patient engagement roles in designing and improving VA outpatient care (consultant, implementation advisor, equal stakeholder and lead stakeholder) and two VA levels (local and regional). Rating criteria included desirability, feasibility, patient ability, physician/staff acceptance and impact on patient‐centredness and care quality. Data were analysed using the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method for determining consensus.

Findings

Experts rated consulting with patients at the local level as the most desirable and feasible patient engagement approach. Engagement at the local level was considered more desirable than engagement at the regional level. Being an equal stakeholder at the local level received the highest ratings on the patient‐centredness and health‐care quality criteria.

Conclusions

Our findings illustrate expert opinion about different approaches to patient engagement and highlight the benefits and challenges posed by each. Although experts rated local consultations with patients on an as‐needed basis as most desirable and feasible, they rated being an equal stakeholder at the local level as having the highest potential impact on patient‐centredness and care quality. This result highlights a perceived discrepancy between what is most desirable and what is potentially most effective, but suggests that routine local engagement of patients as equal stakeholders may be a desirable first step for promoting high‐quality, patient‐centred care.
Long‐term changes in communities of native coccinellids: population fluctuations and the effect of competition from an invasive non‐native species
Authors: Honek Alois , Martinkova Zdenka , Dixon Anthony F.G. , Roy Helen E. , Pekár Stano
Published: February 2016

We assessed the changes in abundance and community composition of native species of coccinellids (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) on deciduous trees that occurred between 1970s and 2010s, in the Czech Republic.

As the composition of adult communities varies with host plant and season, coccinellids were sampled in May–June from Acer, Betula and Tilia trees using a standardised sweeping method. This was done before (1976–1986) and after (2011–2014) the arrival of Harmonia axyridis in 2006, with interim samples from a period immediately before it arrived in the Czech Republic (2002–2006).

Twenty‐one native species were identified in the total sample of 2674 adults. The abundance of Adalia bipunctata, Coccinella quinquepunctata and Propylea quatuordecimpunctata decreased over the whole period sampled. Declines in abundance of these species were already evident prior to the arrival of H. axyridis. Recent declines in Adalia decempunctata and Calvia quatuordecimguttata followed the arrival H. axyridis. Their abundance was increasing prior to the arrival of H. axyridis, but decreased following its invasion and the latter species might have affected their decline. The abundance of only one species, Calvia decemguttata, increased. Although the abundance of many species decreased and the frequency of some species varied, the diversity of native coccinellid populations (Shannon index) was similar over the 40 years of this study.

The changes in species composition can in part be attributed to H. axyridis, the role of other factors (e.g. climate change, habitat degradation) in the long‐term fluctuations in abundance of coccinellids should be considered in future assessments.
Influence of N‐methyl pyrrolidone on the activity of the pulp–dentine complex and bone integrity during osteoporosis
Authors: Gjoksi B. , Ruangsawasdi N. , Ghayor C. , Siegenthaler B. , Zenobi‐Wong M. , Weber F. E.
Published: February 2016

Aim

To analyse the effect of systemic application of N‐methyl pyrrolidone (NMP) on the pulp–dentine complex and on the jawbone of ovariectomized rats.

Method

Female Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into a Sham‐operated group (Sham n = 6) and an oestrogen depletion by ovariectomy (OVX n = 12) group. In 6 of the ovariectomized animals, N‐methyl pyrrolidone (NMP) in phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) was administered systemically weekly by intraperitoneal injection (i.p.); the other 6 were injected with PBS (Veh). After 15 weeks of injections, the jaw bones were collected and pulps extracted from the incisors teeth. Histology was used to determine pre‐dentine thickness in teeth and radiography to determine alveolar bone mass. Immunohistological staining and RT‐PCR were performed to verify the presence and localization of the odontoblast‐specific dentine sialoprotein and to quantify its expression in the dentine–pulp complex. Mandibular cortical width and mandibular height were evaluated by means of X‐ray analysis. Statistical analysis was performed with analysis of variance (anova).

Results

Both pre‐dentine (P = 0.029) and alveolar bone structures (P = 0.049) were significantly reduced due to oestrogen deficiency in OVX Veh and OVX. NMP treatment normalized these parameters to the Sham level. DSPP expression in OVX NMP animals was significantly higher (P = 0.046) than in OVX Veh. X‐ray analysis confirmed that ovariectomy significantly reduced the mandibular cortical width in the OVX Veh group compared to the Sham Veh and OVX NMP (P = 0.020).

Conclusion

N‐methyl pyrrolidone (NMP) had a remarkable anti‐osteoporotic ability preserving activity in the pulp–dentine complex and preventing jawbone loss. These effects make NMP a promising candidate for the preservation of the activity of the pulp–dentine complex and jawbone thickness in post‐menopausal females.
Food choices in Ethiopia: does nutritional information matter?
Authors: Bekele Alemayehu Dekeba , Beuving Joost , Ruben Ruerd
Published: February 2016

This article reports results from a framed market experiment conducted to examine whether milk choices are responsive to changes in the nutritional characteristics of milk products. Using a random‐effect Tobit model, we analyzed experimental data collected from 160 participants in urban Ethiopia. It shows that sensory properties play a key role in the acceptance of reduced‐fat milk while the provision of nutrition information has a mixed effect on a price premium. Further, a substantial percentage of participants were found to have a strong preference for whole milk while only 19% of them prefer reduced‐fat milk with 2.8% price premium. The study unveils a heterogeneous preference for the nutritional quality of milk products. Consumers’ health problems and socio‐demographic characteristics influence their preference for the nutritional quality of milk products. The result also shows a nutrition‐taste tradeoff, yet consumers place more value on sensory experience. Contrary to earlier studies, we found that prior belief about milk quality influences how consumers value sensory experience and nutrition information.