bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methane and nitrous oxide emissions under no‐till farming in China: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhao Xin , Liu Sheng‐Li , Pu Chao , Zhang Xiang‐Qian , Xue Jian‐Fu , Zhang Ran , Wang Yu‐Qiao , Lal Rattan , Zhang Hai‐Lin , Chen Fu
Published: December 2015

No‐till (NT) practices are among promising options toward adaptation and mitigation of climate change. However, the mitigation effectiveness of NT depends not only on its carbon sequestration potential but also on soil‐derived CH4 and N2O emissions. A meta‐analysis was conducted, using a dataset involving 136 comparisons from 39 studies in China, to identify site‐specific factors which influence CH4 emission, CH4 uptake, and N2O emission under NT. Comparative treatments involved NT without residue retention (NT0), NT with residue retention (NTR), compared to plow tillage (PT) with residue removed (PT0). Overall, NT0 significantly decreased CH4 emission by ~30% (P < 0.05) compared to PT0 with an average emission 218.8 kg ha−1 for rice paddies. However, the increase in N2O emission could partly offset the benefits of the decrease in CH4 emission under NT compared to PT0. NTR significantly enhanced N2O emission by 82.1%, 25.5%, and 20.8% (P < 0.05) compared to PT0 for rice paddies, acid soils, and the first 5 years of the experiments, respectively. The results from categorical meta‐analysis indicated that the higher N2O emission could be mitigated by adopting NT within alkaline soils, for long‐term duration, and with less N fertilization input when compared to PT0. In addition, the natural log (lnR) of response ratio of CH4 and N2O emissions under NT correlated positively (enhancing emission) with climate factors (temperature and precipitation) and negatively (reducing emission) with experimental duration, suggesting that avoiding excess soil wetness and using NT for a long term could enhance the benefits of NT. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the conditions favoring greenhouse gas(es) reductions is essential to achieving climate change mitigation and advancing food security in China.
Variable carbon losses from recurrent fires in drained tropical peatlands
Authors: Konecny Kristina , Ballhorn Uwe , Navratil Peter , Jubanski Juilson , Page Susan E. , Tansey Kevin , Hooijer Aljosja , Vernimmen Ronald , Siegert Florian
Published: December 2015

Tropical peatland fires play a significant role in the context of global warming through emissions of substantial amounts of greenhouse gases. However, the state of knowledge on carbon loss from these fires is still poorly developed with few studies reporting the associated mass of peat consumed. Furthermore, spatial and temporal variations in burn depth have not been previously quantified. This study presents the first spatially explicit investigation of fire‐driven tropical peat loss and its variability. An extensive airborne Light Detection and Ranging data set was used to develop a prefire peat surface modelling methodology, enabling the spatially differentiated quantification of burned area depth over the entire burned area. We observe a strong interdependence between burned area depth, fire frequency and distance to drainage canals. For the first time, we show that relative burned area depth decreases over the first four fire events and is constant thereafter. Based on our results, we revise existing peat and carbon loss estimates for recurrent fires in drained tropical peatlands. We suggest values for the dry mass of peat fuel consumed that are 206 t ha−1 for initial fires, reducing to 115 t ha−1 for second, 69 t ha−1 for third and 23 t ha−1 for successive fires, which are 58–7% of the current IPCC Tier 1 default value for all fires. In our study area, this results in carbon losses of 114, 64, 38 and 13 t C ha−1 for first to fourth fires, respectively. Furthermore, we show that with increasing proximity to drainage canals both burned area depth and the probability of recurrent fires increase and present equations explaining burned area depth as a function of distance to drainage canal. This improved knowledge enables a more accurate approach to emissions accounting and will support IPCC Tier 2 reporting of fire emissions.
BAY 81‐8973 safety and efficacy for prophylaxis and treatment of bleeds in previously treated children with severe haemophilia A: results of the LEOPOLD Kids Trial
Authors: Ljung R. , Kenet G. , Mancuso M. E. , Kaleva V. , Rusen L. , Tseneklidou‐Stoeter D. , Michaels L. A. , Shah A. , Hong W. , Maas Enriquez M. ,   the investigators of the LEOPOLD Kids Trial
Published: December 2015

Introduction

BAY 81‐8973, a full‐length, unmodified, recombinant factor VIII (FVIII) in development for treatment of haemophilia A, has the same primary amino acid sequence as Bayer's sucrose‐formulated recombinant FVIII but is produced with more advanced manufacturing technologies.

Aim

To demonstrate safety and efficacy of BAY 81‐8973 for prophylaxis and treatment of bleeds in previously treated children.

Methods

In this phase III, multicentre, open‐label, nonrandomized study, boys aged ≤12 years with severe haemophilia A and ≥50 exposure days (EDs) to FVIII products received prophylaxis with BAY 81‐8973 25–50 IU kg−1 ≥2 times weekly for ≥50 EDs. The efficacy endpoint was annualized number of total bleeds. Adverse events (AEs) and immunogenicity were assessed.

Results

Fifty‐one patients were treated (age: <6 years, n = 25; 6–<12 years, n = 26) with a 2× per week (43%) or >2× per week (57%) regimen at study start. Median [quartile 1; quartile 3 (Q1; Q3)] annualized number of bleeds for the combined age groups was 1.90 (0; 6.02) for total bleeds, 0 (0; 2.01) for joint bleeds and 0 (0; 0) for spontaneous bleeds. Median (Q1; Q3) annualized number of total bleeds within 48 h of previous prophylaxis infusion was 1.88 (0; 3.97) for children aged <6 years and 0 (0; 1.96) for children aged 6–<12 years. No drug‐related serious AEs or inhibitors were reported.

Conclusions

Prophylaxis with BAY 81‐8973 using individualized prophylaxis regimens of 2× per week, 3× per week and every‐other‐day infusions was efficacious in prevention and treatment of bleeds in children with severe haemophilia A. Treatment with BAY 81‐8973 was well tolerated.
Practical management of myelofibrosis with ruxolitinib
Authors: Ho P. J. , Marlton P. , Tam C. , Stevenson W. , Ritchie D. , Bird R. , Dunlop L. C. , Durrant S. , Ross D. M.
Published: December 2015

Treatment for the majority of patients with myelofibrosis is primarily based on symptom control as curative allogeneic stem cell transplantation is typically offered only to younger patients, especially those with poor prognosis disease. Around 50% of patients with myelofibrosis have the JAK2V617F mutation, but almost all patients have aberrant activation of the JAK‐STAT signalling pathway. Recent efforts have focussed on the clinical use of JAK2 inhibitors to treat myelofibrosis. In this article, we present our recommendations for the practical management of myelofibrosis with ruxolitinib, a selective inhibitor of both JAK1 and JAK2. Ruxolitinib can significantly improve the quality of life of patients with myelofibrosis. There is also increasing evidence of a positive impact on survival. Consistent with the physiological role of JAK signalling the major toxicity of ruxolitinib is cytopenia. Managing cytopenia is key to maximising the therapeutic benefit of ruxolitinib. Further research into the safety of ruxolitinib in patients with thrombocytopenia is warranted, as is its role in special subgroups of patients, such as those undergoing stem cell transplantation and those experiencing thrombosis as a major manifestation of myelofibrosis.
miR‐212 downregulation contributes to the protective effect of exercise against non‐alcoholic fatty liver via targeting FGF‐21
Authors: Xiao Junjie , Bei Yihua , Liu Jingqi , Dimitrova‐Shumkovska Jasmina , Kuang Dapeng , Zhou Qiulian , Li Jin , Yang Yanning , Xiang Yang , Wang Fei , Yang Changqing , Yang Wenzhuo
Published: December 2015

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with obesity and lifestyle, while exercise is beneficial for NAFLD. Dysregulated microRNAs (miRs) control the pathogenesis of NAFLD. However, whether exercise could prevent NAFLD via targeting microRNA is unknown. In this study, normal or high‐fat diet (HF) mice were either subjected to a 16‐week running program or kept sedentary. Exercise attenuated liver steatosis in HF mice. MicroRNA array and qRT‐PCR demonstrated that miR‐212 was overexpressed in HF liver, while reduced by exercise. Next, we investigated the role of miR‐212 in lipogenesis using HepG2 cells with/without long‐chain fatty acid treatment (±FFA). FFA increased miR‐212 in HepG2 cells. Moreover, miR‐212 promoted lipogenesis in HepG2 cells (±FFA). Fibroblast growth factor (FGF)‐21, a key regulator for lipid metabolism, was negatively regulated by miR‐212 at protein level in HepG2 cells. Meanwhile, FFA downregulated FGF‐21 both at mRNA and protein levels in HepG2 cells. Also, FGF‐21 protein level was reduced in HF liver, while reversed by exercise in vivo. Furthermore, siRNA‐FGF‐21 abolished the lipogenesis‐reducing effect of miR‐212 inhibitor in HepG2 cells (±FFA), validating FGF‐21 as a target gene of miR‐212. These data link the benefit of exercise and miR‐212 downregulation in preventing NAFLD via targeting FGF‐21.
Aberrant expression of Arpin in human breast cancer and its clinical significance
Authors: Liu Xiangping , Zhao Bin , Wang Haibo , Wang Yu , Niu Mengdi , Sun Ming , Zhao Yang , Yao Ruyong , Qu Zhiqiang
Published: December 2015

Arpin (Arp2/3 complex inhibitor), a novel protein found in 2013, plays a pivotal role in cell motility and migration. However, the precise role of Arpin in cancer is unclear. This study investigated the expression of Arpin in breast cancer and evaluated its correlation with the characteristics of clinical pathology and prognosis of breast cancer patients. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) for Arpin protein was performed on formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded 176 breast cancer tissues and 43 normal breast tissues while qRT‐PCR for Arpin mRNA with 104 paired tumour and paratumoural tissues from breast cancer patients respectively. The association of Arpin expression with clinical pathological features and survival was assessed in a retrospective cohort analysis of patients. The results showed that the expression of Arpin protein in cancer tissues was lower compared to that in normal breast and the expression of Arpin mRNA was also lower in cancer tissues than that in the matched paratumoural tissues. Among the 176 breast cancer patients, the lower expression of Arpin was significantly associated with advanced tumour, nodes and metastasis system stage, and the reduced Arpin expression was strongly associated with axillary lymph node metastasis using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis [odds ratio: 3.242; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.526, 6.888; P < 0.05]. Furthermore, Arpin expression was an independent risk factor for recurrence‐free survival (HR: 0.373; 95% CI: 0.171, 0.813; P < 0.05). As Arpin expression was first examined in human breast cancer tissues with qRT‐PCR and IHC, our results suggest that Arpin downregulation may contribute to the initiation and development of breast cancer metastasis. Therefore, as a potential predictive marker, Arpin deserves future studies.
MicroRNA‐425‐5p regulates chemoresistance in colorectal cancer cells via regulation of Programmed Cell Death 10
Authors: Zhang Ye , Hu Xingqian , Miao Xiaofei , Zhu Kuiyu , Cui Songkui , Meng Qingyang , Sun Jialin , Wang Tong
Published: December 2015

Acquired chemoresistance represents a major obstacle in cancer treatment, the underlying mechanism of which is complex and not well understood. MiR‐425‐5p has been reported to be implicated tumorigenesis in a few cancer types. However, its role in regulating chemoresistance has not been investigated in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. Microarray analysis was performed in isogenic chemosensitive and chemoresistant HCT116 cell lines to identify differentially expressed miRNAs. miRNA quantitative real‐time PCR was used to detect miR‐425‐5p expression levels between drug resistant and parental cancer cells. MiR‐425‐5p mimic and inhibitor were transfected, followed by CellTiter‐Glo® assay to examine drug sensitivity in these two cell lines. Western Blot and luciferase assay were performed to investigate the direct target of miR‐425‐5p. Xenograft mouse models were used to examine in vivo function of miR‐425‐5p. Our data showed that expression of miR‐425‐5p was significantly up‐regulated in HCT116‐R compared with parental HCT116 cells. Inhibition of miR‐425‐5p reversed chemoresistance in HCT116‐R cells. Programmed cell death 10 (PDCD10) is the direct target of miR‐425‐5p which is required for the regulatory role of miR‐425‐5p in chemoresistance. MiR‐425‐5p inhibitor sensitized HCT116‐R xenografts to chemo drugs in vivo. Our study demonstrated that miR‐425‐5p regulates chemoresistance of CRC cells by modulating PDCD10 expression level both in vitro and in vivo. MiR‐425‐5p may represent a new therapeutic target for the intervention of CRC.
The JP2 genotype of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and marginal periodontitis in the mixed dentition
Authors: Jensen Anne Birkeholm , Ennibi Oum Keltoum , Ismaili Zouheir , Poulsen Knud , Haubek Dorte
Published: December 2015

Aim

To perform a cross‐sectional study on the carrier frequency of JP2 and non‐JP2 genotypes of A. actinomycetemcomitans in Moroccan school children and relate the presence of these genotypes to the periodontal status in the mixed dentition.

Material and Methods

A plaque sample from 513 children was analysed by PCR. JP2 genotype‐positive subjects (n = 46), an equally sized group of non‐JP2 genotype‐positive subjects, and an A. actinomycetemcomitans‐negative group were randomly chosen among the remaining subjects for clinical and radiographic examination.

Results

Among 513 children, 46 (9.0%) carried the JP2 genotype and 186 (36.3%) were positive for non‐JP2 genotypes, whereas A. actinomycetemcomitans could not be detected in the remaining 281 subjects. Among 75 subjects with mixed dentition and selected for clinical examination, clinical attachment loss (CAL) ≥3 mm at two or more periodontal sites on primary teeth was found in the JP2 genotype‐positive group only. In total, 6.7% of subjects with primary teeth present showed CAL ≥3 mm at two or more sites.

Conclusions

The carrier frequency of the JP2 genotype of A. actinomycetemcomitans was at a comparable level to frequencies previously found in Moroccan adolescent populations. Clinical attachment loss, manifesting already in the primary dentition, was found only in the group of Moroccan children carrying the JP2 genotype of A. actinomycetemcomitans.
Diode laser for harvesting de‐epithelialized palatal graft in the treatment of gingival recession defects: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Ozcelik Onur , Seydaoglu Gulsah , Haytac Cenk Mehmet
Published: December 2015

Aims

The aim of present randomized controlled clinical study was to evaluate the effects of the use of diode laser for graft harvesting and palatal wound irradiation on post‐operative morbidity and root coverage outcomes after a coronally advanced flap (CAF) with de‐epithelialized gingival grafts (DGG).

Methods

Fifty‐two patients with isolated recessions were treated. The CTG resulted from the de‐epithelialization of a free gingival graft (FGG) with blade (control group:DGG‐B) or diode laser (DL) (test group:DGG‐L). The DL was used to de‐epithelialize the outer part of the FGG and photo‐biostimulate the palatal wound area. Post‐operative morbidity was evaluated by using Oral Health‐related Quality of Life (OHQoL) and Visual Analogue Scale‐discomfort (VAS). Root coverage outcomes were also evaluated 6 months after operation.

Results

Statistically significant differences were found for OHQoL (p = 0.0001) and VAS (p = 0.0001) at the 7th day post‐operatively favouring test sites. Root coverage results did not show a statistically significant difference.

Conclusions

While both techniques were effective with regard to root coverage at 6 months, the DGG‐L technique decreased post‐operative morbidity associated with palatal donor‐site surgery.
Loss of molars in periodontally treated patients: results 10 years and more after active periodontal therapy
Authors: Dannewitz Bettina , Zeidler Anna , Hüsing Johannes , Saure Daniel , Pfefferle Thorsten , Eickholz Peter , Pretzl Bernadette
Published: December 2015

Aim

To identify risk factors for loss of molars during supportive periodontal therapy (SPT).

Materials and Methods

A total of 136 subjects with 1015 molars at baseline were examined retrospectively. The association of risk factors with loss of molars was assessed using a multilevel Cox regression analysis. Furcation involvement (FI) was assessed clinically at start of periodontal therapy and assigned according to Hamp et al. (1975).

Results

Fifty molars were extracted during active periodontal therapy (APT) and 154 molars over the average SPT period of 13.2 ± 2.8 years. FI degree III (HR 4.68, p < 0.001), baseline bone loss (BL) > 60% (HR 3.74, p = 0.009), residual mean probing pocket depth (PPD, HR 1.43, p = 0.027), and endodontic treatment (HR 2.98, p < 0.001) were identified as relevant tooth‐related factors for loss of molars during SPT. However, mean survival time for molars with FI III or BL > 60% were 11.8 and 14.4 years, respectively. Among the patient data, age (HR 1.57, p = 0.01), female gender (HR 1.99, p = 0.035), smoking (HR 1.97, p = 0.034), and diabetes mellitus (HR 5.25, p = 0.021) were significant predictors for loss of molars.

Conclusion

Overall, periodontal therapy results in a good prognosis of molars. Degree III FI, progressive BL, endodontic treatment, residual PPD, age, female gender, smoking, and diabetes mellitus strongly influence the prognosis for molars after APT.
Therapist‐youth agreement on alliance change predicts long‐term outcome in CBT for anxiety disorders
Authors: Fjermestad Krister W. , Lerner Matthew D. , McLeod Bryce D. , Wergeland Gro Janne H. , Heiervang Einar R. , Silverman Wendy K. , Öst Lars‐Göran , De Los Reyes Andres , Havik Odd E. , Haugland Bente S.M.
Published: December 2015

Background

In individual cognitive behavioral therapy (ICBT) for youth anxiety disorders, it is unclear whether, and from whose perspective, the alliance predicts outcome. We examined whether youth‐ and therapist‐rated alliance, including level of youth‐therapist alliance agreement, predicted outcome in a randomized controlled trial.

Methods

Youth (N = 91, M age = 11.4 years (SD = 2.1), 49.5% boys, 86.8% Caucasian) diagnosed with separation anxiety disorder, social phobia, or generalized anxiety disorder drawn from the ICBT condition of an effectiveness trial were treated with an ICBT program. Youth‐ and therapist‐rated alliance ratings, assessed with the Therapeutic Alliance Scale for Children (TASC‐C/T), were collected following session 3 (early) and 7 (late). Early alliance, change in alliance from early to late, and level of youth‐therapist agreement on early alliance and alliance change were examined, in relation to outcomes collected at posttreatment and 1‐year follow‐up. Outcome was defined as primary diagnosis loss and reduction in clinicians' severity ratings (CSR; Anxiety Disorders Interview Schedule; ADIS‐C/P) based on youth‐ and parent‐report at posttreatment and follow‐up, and youth treatment satisfaction collected at posttreatment (Client Satisfaction Scale; CSS).

Results

Early TASC‐C scores positively predicted treatment satisfaction at posttreatment. Higher levels of agreement on change in TASC‐C and TASC‐T scores early to late in treatment predicted diagnosis loss and CSR reduction at follow‐up.

Conclusions

Only the level of agreement in alliance change predicted follow‐up outcomes in ICBT for youth anxiety disorders. The findings support further examination of the role that youth‐therapist alliance discrepancies may play in promoting positive outcomes in ICBT for youth anxiety disorders. Clinical trial number NCT00586586, clinicaltrials.gov.
Clinical patterns and associated factors in patients with hand eczema of primarily occupational origin
Authors: Brans R. , John S.M.
Published: December 2015

Background

Hand eczema (HE) is the most common skin disease acquired at work. It presents in different clinical patterns.

Objective

To classify different types of HE according to their clinical pattern and associated factors in patients taking part in a tertiary individual prevention programme (TIP) for occupational skin diseases.

Methods

In a retrospective cohort study, the medical records of 843 patients taking part in the TIP were evaluated. HE was classified into three clinical subtypes: vesicular HE, hyperkeratotic HE and HE with erythema and desquamation.

Results

About 723 patients (85.8%) suffered from HE. Female TIP patients with HE were significantly younger (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.96–0.99) and had a higher prevalence of flexural eczema (OR 1.60, 95% CI 1.15–2.23) and an atopic HE component (OR 1.84, 95% CI 1.36–2.48) than men. Vesicular HE was more common in women (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.07–1.94) and significantly associated with hyperhidrosis (OR 1.69, 95% CI 1.23–2.33), flexural eczema (OR 1.37, 95% CI 0.99–1.89) and an atopic HE component (OR 1.93, 95% CI 1.44–2.61). Hyperkeratotic HE was more frequent in men (OR 3.70, 95% CI 2.27–6.25) and associated with older age (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.02–1.06). The cohort of patients with HE characterized by erythema and desquamation was very heterogeneous. Vesicular HE was significantly associated with tobacco smoking (OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.40–2.68), while hyperkeratotic HE was significantly less common in smokers (OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.22–0.65).

Conclusion

Environmental and individual factors are associated with different clinical patterns of HE in patients taking part in the TIP. They may influence the prognosis and should be considered in the individual management of disease. Tobacco smoking may be in particular a risk factor for vesicular HE.
Quality of life in patients with alopecia areata: a hospital‐based cross‐sectional study
Authors: Janković S. , Perić J. , Maksimović N. , Ćirković A. , Marinković J. , Janković J. , Reljić V. , Medenica L.
Published: December 2015

Background

Previous studies suggest that alopecia areata (AA) may significantly affect patient quality of life (QoL). There are no studies that assess QoL in Serbian AA patients.

Objectives

This study aims to assess the impact of AA on patients' QoL in comparison to patients affected by other skin diseases and to determine the impact of sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of AA patients on QoL.

Methods

A hospital‐based cross‐sectional study of 60 patients with AA was conducted at the Clinic of Dermatovenereology, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade between April 2012 and June 2013. The severity of hair loss was assessed using the Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT). Patients' self‐assessment of QoL was measured by three self‐administered questionnaires: The Short Form‐36 Health Survey (SF‐36), Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and The Skindex‐29.

Results

Sixty AA patients (16 males and 44 females) with mean age of 37.35 ± 14.26 years completed the questionnaires. We confirmed that QoL of our AA patients was impaired. Compared with patients suffering from psoriasis, atopic dermatitis and onychomycosis AA patients presented significantly better QoL. Severity of disease (SALT) correlated only with personal relationship – dimension of DLQI (ρ = 0.29, P < 0.05) and social functioning – dimension of Skindex (ρ = 0.26, P < 0.05). No correlation was observed between severity of the disease and SF‐36 subscales. AA patients with depression had significantly worse QoL in daily activities, leisure, work or school and personal relationships – DLQI dimensions, and emotions and social functioning – Skindex subscales.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that AA influences QoL, but to a lesser degree than observed for psoriasis, atopic dermatitis and onychomycosis.
Competing for Consumers with Self‐Control Problems
Authors: Alexandrov Alexei
Published: December 2015

I examine strategic implications of competing for consumers with self‐control problems. For investment goods, like health clubs, I find that the equilibrium sign‐up (lump‐sum) fees decrease when competition intensifies, similarly to prices in standard oligopoly models. However, the equilibrium attendance (per‐unit) price increases due to firms' deteriorated ability to take advantage of consumers' self‐control problems. Moreover, firms earn less profit due to consumers' self‐control problems—the firms have a unilateral incentive to charge per‐unit fees lower than the marginal cost; however, they cannot make up the lost margins by increasing the lump‐sum fee, due to competition. I also show that for plausible parameter regions the market adjusts to consumers' self‐control problem in such a way that firms play the standard equilibrium strategies that they would have engaged in with fully rational consumers, with identical market outcomes. Most of the results are qualitatively the same for leisure goods (for example, credit cards); however, some results are reversed: the per‐unit fees are higher than marginal cost and decrease as competition intensifies.
The Montreal Cognitive Assessment—Basic: A Screening Tool for Mild Cognitive Impairment in Illiterate and Low‐Educated Elderly Adults
Authors: Julayanont Parunyou , Tangwongchai Sookjaroen , Hemrungrojn Solaphat , Tunvirachaisakul Chawit , Phanthumchinda Kammant , Hongsawat Juntanee , Suwichanarakul Panida , Thanasirorat Saowaluck , Nasreddine Ziad S.
Published: December 2015

Objectives

To assess the validity of a newly developed cognitive screening tool, the Montreal Cognitive Assessment—Basic (MoCA‐B), in screening for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in elderly adults with low education and varying literacy.

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Setting

Community hospital in Bangkok, Thailand.

Participants

Cognitively normal controls (n = 43) and individuals with MCI according to the National Institute on Aging‐Alzheimer's Association work group criteria (n = 42) aged 55 to 80 with less than 5 years of education.

Measurements

MoCA‐B scores.

Results

Mean MoCA‐B scores were 26.3 ± 1.6 for illiterate controls and 21.3 ± 3.8 for illiterate participants with MCI (P < .001) and 26.6 ± 2.0 for literate controls and 23.0 ± 2.1 for literate participants with MCI (P < .001). MoCA‐B scores did not differ significantly according to literacy, and multiple regression suggested no association with age or education. The optimal cutoff score of 24 out of 25 yielded 81% sensitivity and 86% specificity for MCI (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.90, P < .001). Test–retest reliability was 0.91 (P < .001), and internal consistency was 0.82. Administration time was 15 to 21 minutes.

Conclusion

The MoCA‐B appears to have excellent validity and addresses an unmet need by accurately screening for MCI in poorly educated older adults regardless of literacy.
Proximity of SCG10 and prion protein in membrane rafts
Authors: Iwamaru Yoshifumi , Kitani Hiroshi , Okada Hiroyuki , Takenouchi Takato , Shimizu Yoshihisa , Imamura Morikazu , Miyazawa Kohtaro , Murayama Yuichi , Hoover Edward A. , Yokoyama Takashi
Published: December 2015

The conversion of normal cellular prion protein (PrPC) into its pathogenic isoform (PrPSc) is an essential event in prion pathogenesis. In culture models, membrane rafts are suggested to play a critical role in PrPSc formation. To identify the candidate molecules capable of interacting with PrPC and facilitating PrPSc formation in membrane rafts, we applied a novel biochemical labeling method termed enzyme‐mediated activation of radical sources. Enzyme‐mediated activation of radical sources was applied to the Lubrol WX insoluble detergent‐resistant membrane fractions from mouse neuroblastoma (N2a) cells in which the surface PrPC was labeled with HRP‐conjugated anti‐PrP antibody. Two‐dimensional western blots of these preparations revealed biotinylated spots of approximately 20 kDa with an isoelectric point of 8.0–9.0. Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry analysis resulted in the identification of peptides containing SCG10, the neuron‐specific microtubule regulator. Proximity of SCG10 and PrPC was confirmed using proximity ligation assay and co‐immunoprecipitation assay. Transfection of persistently 22L prion‐infected N2a cells with SCG10 small interfering RNA reduced SCG10 expression, but did not prevent PrPSc accumulation, indicating that SCG10 appears to be unrelated to PrPSc formation of 22L prion. Immunofluorescence and western blot analyses showed reduced levels of SCG10 in the hippocampus of prion‐infected mice, suggesting a possible association between SCG10 levels and the prion neuropathogenesis.

image

By applying a novel biochemical labeling method against detergent‐resistant membrane fractions from mouse neuroblastoma cells, the neuron‐specific microtubule‐destabilization protein, SCG10 was identified as a novel candidate that is proximate to normal prion protein (PrP) in membrane rafts. SCG10 seemed unrelated to disease‐related PrP formation under certain conditions, while there is a possible association between SCG10 levels and prion neuropathogenesis.

Cover Image for this issue: doi: 10.1111/jnc.13310.
The better to eat you with: the comparative feeding morphology of phocid seals (Pinnipedia, Phocidae)
Authors: Kienle Sarah S. , Berta Annalisa
Published: December 2015

One adaptation crucial to the survival of mammalian lineages that secondarily transitioned from land to water environments was the ability to capture and consume prey underwater. Phocid seals have evolved diverse feeding strategies to feed in the marine environment, and the objectives of this study were to document the specialized feeding morphologies and identify feeding strategies used by extant phocids. This study used principal component analysis (PCA) to determine the major axes of diversification in the skull for all extant phocid taxa and the recently extinct Caribbean monk seal (n = 19). Prey data gathered from the literature and musculoskeletal data from dissections were included to provide a comprehensive description of each feeding strategy. Random Forest analysis was used to determine the morphological, ecological and phylogenetic variables that best described each feeding strategy. There is morphological evidence for four feeding strategies in phocids: filter; grip and tear; suction; and pierce feeding. These feeding strategies are supported by quantitative cranial and mandibular characters, dietary information, musculoskeletal data and, for some species, behavioral observations. Most phocid species are pierce feeders, using a combination of biting and suction to opportunistically catch prey. Grip and tear and filter feeding are specialized strategies with specific morphological adaptations. These unique adaptations have allowed leopard seals (Hydrurga leptonyx) and crabeater seals (Lobodon carcinophaga) to exploit novel ecological niches and prey types. This study provides the first cranial and mandibular morphological evidence for the use of specialized suction feeding in hooded seals (Cystophora cristata), northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris) and southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina). The most important variables in determining the feeding strategy of a given phocid species were cranial and mandibular shape, diet, and phylogeny. These results provide a framework for understanding the evolution and adaptability of feeding strategies employed by extant phocid species, and these findings can be applied to other pinniped lineages and extinct taxa.
Carcinosarcoma arising from uterine adenomyosis: A case report
Authors: Kiuchi Kaori , Hasegawa Kiyoshi , Kanamori Anriko , Machida Hiromi , Kojima Masaru , Fukasawa Ichio
Published: December 2015

Carcinosarcoma arising from uterine adenomyosis is extremely rare. We encountered such a patient and herein provide a review of the literature. A 56‐year‐old woman was referred for a huge pelvic tumor, suspected to be an advanced uterine leiomyosarcoma. Intraoperative inspection revealed a mass, mainly located in the uterine myometrium, invading the uterine serosa. The tumor had previously spontaneously ruptured and disseminated to the pelvic cavity. Pathological and immunohistochemical examination revealed an infiltrative pattern of biphasic tumor cells composed of endometrioid adenocarcinoma and a nonepithelial component with rhabdomyosarcomatous differentiation. Benign endometrial glands with stromal cells were found adjacent to the area of the carcinosarcoma. The endometrium and both ovaries and fallopian tubes were microscopically free of tumor cells. The final diagnosis was heterologous type carcinosarcoma with rhabdomyosarcomatous differentiation, originating from uterine adenomyosis.
Gestational age of pregnancy loss in women with unexplained recurrent miscarriage
Authors: Ticconi Carlo , Giuliani Emma , Sorge Roberto , Patrizi Lodovico , Piccione Emilio , Pietropolli Adalgisa
Published: December 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the gestational age (GA) of pregnancy loss in women with unexplained recurrent miscarriage (RM) and to determine whether the miscarriages occur at similar GA in RM women.

Material and Methods

This retrospective study was carried out in a university hospital and included 288 women with unexplained RM. The GA at which each miscarriage occurred was carefully determined. Overall, 739 miscarriages were analyzed.

Results

RM women had miscarriages at a median GA of 7 weeks (range: 3–20). In RM women, 47.2% (n = 136) experienced miscarriages within a 1‐week range of GA and 53.4% (n = 154) had miscarriages in the same period of fetal development (pre‐embryonic, embryonic or fetal).

Conclusion

Women with unexplained RM tend to have miscarriages at the same GA, which is characteristic for each patient.
Vaginal misoprostol versus intravenous oxytocin for the management of second‐trimester pregnancies with intrauterine fetal death: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Abediasl Zhila , Sheikh Mahdi , Pooransari Parichehr , Farahani Zahra , Kalani Farah
Published: December 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to compare vaginal misoprostol versus intravenous (i.v.) oxytocin in the management of pregnancies with second‐trimester intrauterine fetal death (IUFD).

Methods

This randomized clinical trial was conducted on 85 pregnant women with IUFD and unripe cervix who were admitted for labor induction. Forty were randomly allocated to receive 200 mcg vaginal misoprostol every 12 h, and 45 were randomly assigned to receive high‐dose i.v. oxytocin (starting from 6 mU/min to reach the maximum dose of 40 mU/min). This study is registered at www.irct.ir (IRCT201307159568N5).

Results

The induction‐to‐delivery interval in the misoprostol group (10.5 ± 5.3 [range 4–27] h) was significantly lower than that in the oxytocin group (14 ± 6.8 [range 4–30] h) (P = 0.009). The total hospital stay in the misoprostol group (22.6 ± 9.5 [range 12–48] h) was significantly lower than that in the oxytocin group (35.3 ± 16.4 [range 12–72] h) (P = 0.000). Although the successful induction rate was higher in the misoprostol group, this was not significant (95% vs 86.7%, P = 0.1). Placenta retention occurred more in the oxytocin group (20% vs 5%, P = 0.03).

Conclusion

Both vaginal misoprostol and high‐dose i.v. oxytocin are highly effective in labor induction in second‐trimester pregnancies with IUFD and an unripe cervix. However, vaginal misoprostol seems to be superior to i.v. oxytocin.
Place Attachment and the Historic Brewpub: A Case Study in Greensboro, North Carolina
Authors: Rojak Dana , Cole Laura B.
Published: December 2015

Over the last few decades, brewpubs have emerged as a cultural phenomenon uniquely positioned to tie together downtown revitalization, historic preservation, and community connections to local place. This study seeks to understand how the benefits of historic preservation in a brewpub can extend beyond tax incentives to include positive social outcomes. In particular, the study here explores the types of attachments patrons may form to historic brewpub environments with an emphasis on the role of the physical built environment. This exploratory study used a mixed methods research design for a single case study brewpub site in Greensboro, North Carolina and in an establishment located along the main thoroughfare of the historic downtown. Data were collected through a structured online survey ( n = 78) followed by the piloting of a photography activity ( n = 7). Survey results revealed that attachment to the physical environment along with customer satisfaction were among the strongest predictors of overall place attachment. In addition, some meaningful differences in place attachment were identified based on sociodemographic factors such as frequency of visits and age. The photography project offered a more in–depth view of patron reactions to the brewpub's built environment. Taken together, the mixture of the methodologies employed in this study indicate that designing a historic physical environment in brewpubs is a promising strategy for engendering attachment to place for visitors.
Demographic Characteristics, Survival and Prognostic Factors for Mortality in Cats with Primary Immune‐Mediated Hemolytic Anemia
Authors: Swann J.W. , Szladovits B. , Glanemann B.
Published: December 2015

Background

Immune‐mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) is uncommon in cats, but may result in severe disease. Demographic predispositions for development of the disease and prognostic factors for mortality have not been investigated previously.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To explore possible demographic predispositions for development of primary IMHA in cats and to investigate possible prognostic factors for mortality.

Animals

107 client‐owned cats with IMHA, of which 72 had primary IMHA and 35 had secondary IMHA, and 9,194 control cats.

Methods

Data were collected retrospectively from records of cats with IMHA, defined by the presence of anemia and concurrent autoagglutination, ghost cells without oxidative damage on fresh blood smear, positive titer in a direct antiglobulin test, or evidence of phagocytosis of erythroid precursors in bone marrow. Odds ratios were calculated to assess the risk of development of primary IMHA in different demographic groups and Cox proportional hazards analysis was conducted to evaluate prognostic factors.

Results

No sex or breed predisposition was identified for the development of primary IMHA in comparison to the control cats, but cats in the age range 2.1–5.9 years were predisposed. Higher total bilirubin concentration and age were significant negative prognostic factors and higher lymphocyte numbers and serum globulin concentration were positive prognostic factors in a multivariable model.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Young adult cats were more likely to develop primary IMHA than other groups, but no apparent male predisposition was identified in this study, contrary to previous reports. Several prognostic factors were identified, which may be helpful in guiding clinical practice in the future.
Characterization of the Sclerotinia sclerotiorum cell wall proteome
Authors: Liu Longzhou , Free Stephen J.
Published: December 2015

We used a proteomic analysis to identify cell wall proteins released from Sclerotinia sclerotiorum hyphal and sclerotial cell walls via a trifluoromethanesulfonic acid (TFMS) digestion. Cell walls from hyphae grown in Vogel's glucose medium (a synthetic medium lacking plant materials), from hyphae grown in potato dextrose broth and from sclerotia produced on potato dextrose agar were used in the analysis. Under the conditions used, TFMS digests the glycosidic linkages in the cell walls to release intact cell wall proteins. The analysis identified 24 glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)‐anchored cell wall proteins and 30 non‐GPI‐anchored cell wall proteins. We found that the cell walls contained an array of cell wall biosynthetic enzymes similar to those found in the cell walls of other fungi. When comparing the proteins in hyphal cell walls grown in potato dextrose broth with those in hyphal cell walls grown in the absence of plant material, it was found that a core group of cell wall biosynthetic proteins and some proteins associated with pathogenicity (secreted cellulases, pectin lyases, glucosidases and proteases) were expressed in both types of hyphae. The hyphae grown in potato dextrose broth contained a number of additional proteins (laccases, oxalate decarboxylase, peroxidase, polysaccharide deacetylase and several proteins unique to Sclerotinia and Botrytis) that might facilitate growth on a plant host. A comparison of the proteins in the sclerotial cell wall with the proteins in the hyphal cell wall demonstrated that sclerotia formation is not marked by a major shift in the composition of cell wall protein. We found that the S. sclerotiorum cell walls contained 11 cell wall proteins that were encoded only in Sclerotinia and Botrytis genomes.
Loss of CMD2‐mediated resistance to cassava mosaic disease in plants regenerated through somatic embryogenesis
Authors: Beyene Getu , Chauhan Raj Deepika , Wagaba Henry , Moll Theodore , Alicai Titus , Miano Douglas , Carrington James C. , Taylor Nigel J.
Published: December 2015

Cassava mosaic disease (CMD) and cassava brown streak disease (CBSD) are the two most important viral diseases affecting cassava production in Africa. Three sources of resistance are employed to combat CMD: polygenic recessive resistance, termed CMD1, the dominant monogenic type, named CMD2, and the recently characterized CMD3. The farmer‐preferred cultivar TME 204 carries inherent resistance to CMD mediated by CMD2, but is highly susceptible to CBSD. Selected plants of TME 204 produced for RNA interference (RNAi)‐mediated resistance to CBSD were regenerated via somatic embryogenesis and tested in confined field trials in East Africa. Although micropropagated, wild‐type TME 204 plants exhibited the expected levels of resistance, all plants regenerated via somatic embryogenesis were found to be highly susceptible to CMD. Glasshouse studies using infectious clones of East African cassava mosaic virus conclusively demonstrated that the process of somatic embryogenesis used to regenerate cassava caused the resulting plants to become susceptible to CMD. This phenomenon could be replicated in the two additional CMD2‐type varieties TME 3 and TME 7, but the CMD1‐type cultivar TMS 30572 and the CMD3‐type cultivar TMS 98/0505 maintained resistance to CMD after passage through somatic embryogenesis. Data are presented to define the specific tissue culture step at which the loss of CMD resistance occurs and to show that the loss of CMD2‐mediated resistance is maintained across vegetative generations. These findings reveal new aspects of the widely used technique of somatic embryogenesis, and the stability of field‐level resistance in CMD2‐type cultivars presently grown by farmers in East Africa, where CMD pressure is high.
Molecular mechanisms associated with Fluconazole resistance in clinical Candida albicans isolates from India
Authors: Mane Arati , Vidhate Pallavi , Kusro Chanchal , Waman Vaishali , Saxena Vandana , Kulkarni‐Kale Urmila , Risbud Arun
Published: December 2015

Resistance to azole antifungals is a significant problem in Candida albicans. An understanding of resistance at molecular level is essential for the development of strategies to tackle resistance and rationale design of newer antifungals and target‐based molecular approaches. This study presents the first evaluation of molecular mechanisms associated with fluconazole resistance in clinical C.albicans isolates from India. Target site (ERG11) alterations were determined by DNA sequencing, whereas real‐time PCRs were performed to quantify target and efflux pump genes (CDR1, CDR2, MDR1) in 87 [Fluconazole susceptible (n = 30), susceptible‐dose dependent (n = 30) and resistant (n = 27)] C.albicans isolates. Cross‐resistance to fluconazole, ketoconazole and itraconazole was observed in 74.1% isolates. Six amino acid substitutions were identified, including 4 (E116D, F145L, E226D, I437V) previously reported ones and 2 (P406L, Q474H) new ones. CDR1 over‐expression was seen in 77.7% resistant isolates. CDR2 was exclusively expressed with CDR1 and their concomitant over‐expression was associated with azole cross‐resistance. MDR1 and ERG11 over‐expression did not seem to be associated with resistance. Our results show that drug efflux mediated by Adenosine‐5′‐triphosphate (ATP)‐binding cassette transporters, especially CDR1 is the predominant mechanism of fluconazole resistance and azole cross‐resistance in C. albicans and indicate the need for research directed towards developing strategies to tackle efflux mediated resistance to salvage azoles.
Improved long‐term survival and renal recovery after acute kidney injury in hospitalized patients: A 20 year experience
Authors: Long Thorir E. , Sigurdsson Martin I. , Sigurdsson Gisli H. , Indridason Olafur S.
Published: December 2015

Aim

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication of medical and surgical interventions in hospitalized patients and associates with high mortality. Our aim was to examine renal recovery and long‐term survival and time trends in AKI survival.

Methods

Changes in serum creatinine (SCr) were used to define AKI in patients at Landspitali University Hospital in Iceland from 1993 to 2013. Renal recovery was defined as SCr < 1.5× baseline.

Results

Out of 25 274 individuals who had their highest measured SCr during hospitalization and an available baseline SCr, 10,419 (41%) had AKI during hospitalization (H‐AKI), 19%, 11% and 12% with Stage 1, 2 and 3, respectively. The incidence of H‐AKI increased from 18.6 (95% CI, 14.7–22.5) to 29.9 (95% CI, 26.7–33.1) per 1000 admissions/year over the study period. Survival after H‐AKI was 61% at 90‐days and 51% at one year. Comparing H‐AKI patients to propensity score matched individuals the hazard ratio for death was 1.49 (1.36–1.62), 2.17 (1.95–2.41) and 2.95 (2.65–3.29) for Stage 1, 2 and 3, respectively. One‐year survival of H‐AKI patients improved from 47% in 1993–1997 to 57% in 2008–2013 and the adjusted hazard ratio for mortality improved, compared to the first 5‐year period, 0.85 (0.81–0.89), 0.67 (0.64–0.71), and 0.57 (0.53–0.60) for each subsequent 5‐year interval. Recovery of renal function was achieved in 88%, 58% and 44% of patients in Stages 1, 2 and 3, respectively, improving with time.

Conclusions

Acute kidney injury is an independent predictor of long‐term mortality in hospitalized patients but there has been a marked improvement in survival and renal recovery over the past two decades.