bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
No correlation between statin exposure and incident diabetes mellitus in HIV‐1‐infected patients receiving combination antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Calza L , Colangeli V , Magistrelli E , Manfredi R , Bon I , Re MC , Viale P
Published: March 2016

Objectives

Recent clinical studies and one meta‐analysis have shown a modest but significant increase in the incidence of diabetes mellitus associated with statin exposure, so this correlation was investigated in a cohort of HIV‐positive subjects.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study including adult HIV‐1‐infected patients followed at our Clinic of Infectious Diseases between 2007 and 2014 was performed.

Results

We assessed 3170 HIV‐positive patients with a median follow‐up of 5.2 years. The incidence of diabetes mellitus was 1.2 per 100 person‐years and it was not significantly associated with the prescription of statins [hazard ratio (HR) 1.09 per year of statin exposure; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.7–1.49; P = 0.067], while it was associated with older age, chronic hepatitis C, antiretroviral‐naïve vs. antiretroviral experienced condition, high body mass index, and high serum concentration of triglycerides.

Conclusions

In our study, a higher risk of diabetes mellitus was not associated with statin treatment, but with some traditional risk factors.
Understanding effects of topical ingredients on electrical measurement of skin hydration
Authors: Crowther J.M.
Published: March 2016

Objective

Methods that assess skin hydration based on changes in its electrical properties are widely used in both cosmetic and medical research. However, the devices themselves often give results which are significantly different to each other. Although some work has previously been carried out to try and understand what these devices are actually reading, it was based on a technique for measuring the devices' responses to filter discs impregnated with different liquids, which could in itself be influencing the measurements. Presented here is a new method for measuring the devices' direct responses to different materials and solutions which removes any other confounding effects, thereby providing a clearer insight into their operation.

Methods

The responses of a variety of different liquids and solutions were measured using the Corneometer® and Skicon®. A new method is presented, based on the use of a custom‐designed PTFE block to hold the liquids, allowing their measurement without using a filter paper. This method was developed and tested against the existing filter paper‐based approach.

Results

Differences were observed in results between filter paper‐ and PTFE block‐based approach, indicating that the filter paper itself is capable of influencing the measurements and as such is not to be recommended for assessing how different liquids impact on results from the devices. A positive correlation was observed between Corneometer® and Skicon® readings for certain solutions and under certain conditions. A large influence of salt concentration was noted for the Skicon® device with no or minimal impact from the actual water itself, humectants and emollients. Salts, emollients, water and humectants were observed to have an effect on Corneometer® readings.

Conclusions

Both the Corneometer® and Skicon® were influenced to different extents by chemicals other than water and therefore cannot be seen purely as measures of skin ‘hydration’. Although there is strong evidence that the devices do correlate with expert assessment of skin dryness, the level of water in the skin is only part of the story when it comes to understanding the benefits of topical moisturizing products applied to the skin. An alternative approach would be to consider skin ‘moisturization’ as a property which is influenced by water, salts and other materials such as humectants and emollients, which is more consistent with how the stratum corneum itself helps to maintain its plasticity and flexibility. In the work presented here, the Corneometer® was more suited to providing a measurement which reflects the impact of multiple different components.
Urinary straining contributes to inguinal hernia after radical retropubic prostatectomy
Authors: Kaiho Yasuhiro , Mitsuzuka Koji , Yamada Shigeyuki , Saito Hideo , Adachi Hisanobu , Yamashita Shinichi , Izumi Hideaki , Ito Akihiro , Arai Yoichi
Published: March 2016

Objectives

To verify whether abdominal pressure during urination represents an important factor in the postoperative development of inguinal hernia after radical retropubic prostatectomy.

Methods

Participants comprised 228 patients who underwent radical retropubic prostatectomy without prophylaxis for inguinal herniation between 2002 and 2007. Development of inguinal hernia was assessed from clinical records. Straining was rated on a six‐point scale (straining score) according to frequency of straining using answers to question 6 of the International Prostate Symptom Score questionnaire preoperatively, and at 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, 24 and 36 months after prostatectomy. Straining scores were compared between patients with and without postoperative inguinal hernia. Multivariate analysis was carried out to identify parameters associated with inguinal hernia development after prostatectomy. Associations between inguinal hernia development and frequency of postoperative urinary straining were also estimated.

Results

Straining score in both groups was significantly increased at 1 month after radical retropubic prostatectomy. This increase was significantly greater in the postoperative inguinal hernia group (P < 0.05). Throughout the observation period, postoperative straining scores were higher in the group with postoperative inguinal hernia than in the group without. On multivariate analysis, postoperative urinary straining and previous hernia repair represented significant risk factors for postoperative inguinal hernia. The proportion of patients without inguinal hernia decreased significantly with increasing frequency of postoperative urinary straining.

Conclusion

Urinary straining is associated with inguinal hernia development after radical retropubic prostatectomy.
Pressure ulcers in four Indonesian hospitals: prevalence, patient characteristics, ulcer characteristics, prevention and treatment
Authors: Amir Yufitriana , Lohrmann Christa , Halfens Ruud JG , Schols Jos MGA
Published: March 2016

The objective of this article was to study characteristics of pressure ulcer patients and their ulcers, pressure ulcer preventive and treatment measures in four Indonesian general hospitals. A multicentre cross‐sectional design was applied to assess pressure ulcers and pressure ulcer care in adult patients in medical, surgical, specialised and intensive care units. Ninety‐one of the 1132 patients had a total of 142 ulcers. Half (44·0%) already had pressure ulcers before admission. The overall prevalence of category I–IV pressure ulcers was 8·0% (95% CI 6·4–9·6), and the overall nosocomial pressure ulcer prevalence was 4·5% (95% CI 3·3–5·7). Most pressure ulcer patients had friction and shear problems, were bedfast, had diabetes and had more bedridden days. Most ulcers (42·3%) were category III and IV. One third of the patients had both pressure ulcers and moisture lesions (36·3%) and suffered from pain (45·1%). The most frequently used prevention measures were repositioning (61·5%), skin moisturising (47·3%), patient education (36·3%) and massage (35·2%). Most pressure ulcer dressings involved saline‐impregnated or antimicrobial gauzes. This study shows the complexities of pressure ulcers in Indonesian general hospitals and reveals that the quality of pressure ulcer care (prevention and treatment) could be improved by implementing the recent evidence‐based international guideline.
Do zip‐type skin‐closing devices show better wound status compared to conventional staple devices in total knee arthroplasty?
Authors: Ko Jae Han , Yang Ick Hwan , Ko Min Seok , Kamolhuja Eshnazarov , Park Kwan Kyu
Published: March 2016

This study compared the pain score, cosmetic outcome and wound complication rate between zip‐type skin‐closing device and conventional staple device. Forty‐five subjects with zip‐type skin‐closing device (the zip group) and 45 subjects with the conventional staple device (the staple group) after total knee arthroplasty were compared. Visual analogue scale score was significantly higher on postoperative (PO) 1, 3, 14 day (D) in the staple group compared to the zip group (P < 0·05). The Vancouver scar score was significantly better in the zip group compared to that of the staple group (4·6 ± 0·7 versus 6·9 ± 1·3, P = 0·043) on PO 90D. There was no significant wound complication rate between the two groups. The zip‐type skin‐closing device showed less pain PO 14D, especially during dressing and removal of the device, and better cosmetic outcome 3 months after surgeries. Surgeons may consider using the zip‐type skin‐closing device for patients who want less pain and better cosmetic outcome.
Expert Testimony, Law and Epistemic Authority
Authors: Ward Tony
Published: March 2016

This article discusses the concept of epistemic authority in the context of English law relating to expert testimony. It distinguishes between two conceptions of epistemic authority (and epistemic deference), one strong and one weak, and argues that only the weak conception is appropriate in a legal context, or in any other setting where reliance on experts can be publicly justified. It critically examines Linda Zagzebski's defence of a stronger conception of epistemic authority and questions whether epistemic authority is as closely analogous to practical authority as she maintains. Zagzebski elucidates a kind of deference that courts generally, and rightly, try to avoid. Her concept of ‘first person reasons’, however, does capture an important aspect of the deliberations of conscientious legal actors.
Impact of dentine hypersensitivity on oral health‐related quality of life in individuals receiving supportive periodontal care
Authors: Goh Victor , Corbet Esmonde F. , Leung Wai Keung
Published: March 2016

Aim

To determine the prevalence and impact of dentine hypersensitivity (DH) on oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) in individuals receiving supportive periodontal care (SPC).

Materials and Methods

One hundred and two adults receiving SPC were recruited for a cross‐sectional study. Subjects were categorized into those who self‐reported DH (DH1) or did not (DH0). Impact of DH on OHRQoL was assessed using the Chinese Condition‐Specific Oral Impact on Daily Performance questionnaire (CS‐OIDP). Evaluation of DH included tactile‐stimulation followed by air‐blast, and recorded using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS).

Results

Sixty‐one (59.8%) subjects self‐reported DH with mean air‐blast VAS score of 29.4 ± 21.3 mm and mean tactile‐stimulation VAS score of 10.9 ± 14.7 mm. Fifty (49%) subjects reported impact on OHRQoL (mean CS‐OIDP score = 4.7 ± 6.3). The most affected performance was cleaning the mouth (35.3%). Positive expression of DH and worse OHRQoL were associated with higher air‐blast and tactile‐stimulation VAS scores, and use of desensitizing agents. The minimally important difference (MID) in CS‐OIDP scores was 2.0 points. Approximately 30% of the subjects reported CS‐OIDP scores above the MID.

Conclusions

Dentine hypersensitivity affects OHRQoL in patients undergoing SPC. The extent of impact was associated with severity of DH.
Multi‐locus sequence data reveal a new species of coral reef goby (Teleostei: Gobiidae: Eviota), and evidence of Pliocene vicariance across the Coral Triangle
Authors: Tornabene L. , Valdez S. , Erdmann M. V. , Pezold F. L.
Published: March 2016

Here, multi‐locus sequence data are coupled with observations of live colouration to recognize a new species, Eviota punyit from the Coral Triangle, Indian Ocean and Red Sea. Relaxed molecular clock divergence time estimation indicates a Pliocene origin for the new species, and the current distribution of the new species and its sister species Eviota sebreei supports a scenario of vicariance across the Indo‐Pacific Barrier, followed by subsequent range expansion and overlap in the Coral Triangle. These results are consistent with the ‘centre of overlap’ hypothesis, which states that the increased diversity in the Coral Triangle is due in part to the overlapping ranges of Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean faunas. These findings are discussed in the context of other geminate pairs of coral reef fishes separated by the Indo‐Pacific Barrier.
A prospective study comparing prophylactic gastrostomy to nutritional counselling with a therapeutic feeding tube if required in head and neck cancer patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy in Thai real‐world practice
Authors: Pramyothin P. , Manyanont S. , Trakarnsanga A. , Petsuksiri J. , Ithimakin S.
Published: March 2016

Background

Concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CRT) is the standard treatment for head and neck (HN) cancer patients. Most patients experience malnutrition and weight loss during treatment because of mucositis and difficulty in swallowing. Prevention of malnutrition may allow more patients to complete their treatment. The present study aimed to examine whether prophylactic gastrostomy tube (PGT) could reduce treatment interruption, prevent malnutrition and maintain quality of life, especially in Thai patients who generally do not accept feeding tubes.

Methods

A prospective study was performed on HN cancer patients undergoing CRT at a tertiary hospital in Thailand (n = 95). Before starting CRT, all patients received nutritional assessment and were counselled about the risks and benefits of PGT. According to patient discretion, they chose to have a PGT (experimental group) or only nutritional counselling with a therapeutic feeding tube if required (control group). During CRT, weight, degree of mucositis, delayed chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy, and nutritional status were recorded. Quality of life (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy – Head and Neck Scale; FACT‐H&N) was compared between two groups.

Results

There was no significant difference in the rates of delayed treatment. Mean weight loss was 3.1 and 4.8 kg in the experimental and control groups, respectively (P = 0.04). A higher proportion of patients in the control group experienced ≥10% weight loss (24% versus 4%; P = 0.03). In terms of quality of life, no significant difference in FACT‐H&N score was found.

Conclusions

The results of the present study suggest that PGT provided similar quality of life without a reduction in treatment interruption. However, patients with PGT had significantly less weight loss (P = 0.04) during CRT.
Light microscopy of whole plant organs
Authors: TIMMERS ANTONIUS C.J.
Published: March 2016

Plants are ideal organisms for light microscopical studies of cellular mechanisms controlling cell organisation and cell functioning. However, most plant organs are not transparent to light which prevents high resolution imaging deep within plant tissues. Classically, access into plant organs is achieved by sectioning or whole‐mount tissue clearing. Until recently, the protocols for clearing destroyed the signal from fluorescent markers which prevented the imaging of the distribution of fluorescent proteins and the three‐dimensional reconstruction from optical slices of whole plant organs. From 2011, a number of protocols have been developed for whole brain and whole organism imaging for animal studies. Now, these protocols have been adapted for in‐depth imaging of whole plant organs. Here, I present an overview of clearing techniques of plant organs and highlight the latest developments of plant tissue clearing in combination with high resolution fluorescence microscopy.
Flat field correction for high‐throughput imaging of fluorescent samples
Authors: KASK PEET , PALO KAUPO , HINNAH CHRIS , POMMERENCKE THORA
Published: March 2016

Vignetting of microscopic images impacts both the visual impression of the images and any image analysis applied to it. Especially in high‐throughput screening high demands are made on an automated image analysis. In our work we focused on fluorescent samples and found that two profiles (background and foreground) for each imaging channel need to be estimated to achieve a sufficiently flat image after correction. We have developed a method which runs completely unsupervised on a wide range of assays. By adding a reliable internal quality control we mitigate the risk of introducing artefacts into sample images through correction. The method requires hundreds of images for the foreground profile, thus limiting its application to high‐throughput screening where this requirement is fulfilled in routine operation.
Taste detection ability of elderly nursing home residents
Authors: Ogawa T. , Uota M. , Ikebe K. , Notomi Y. , Iwamoto Y. , Shirobayashi I. , Kibi M. , Masayasu S. , Sasaki S. , Maeda Y.
Published: March 2016

Due to the rapid rise of aged populations throughout the world, it is essential to elucidate the cause of taste dysfunction, because it may reduce appetite, leading to inadequate dietary intake. We aimed to compare taste detection ability between dependently and independently living geriatric individuals of nearly the same age with oral status. Forty‐three elderly individuals considered to be cognitively eligible and residing in nursing homes in Japan were enrolled (n= 43, 82·3 ± 8·5 years) and were compared with an independently living elderly group (n= 949, 79·9 ± 0·8 years), aiming to compare taste detection ability between dependently and independently living elders of nearly the same age. Information regarding comorbidity and medication was obtained as general health status, and oral status including number of present teeth, denture usage and maximal occlusal force was also noted. In the dependently living group, 69·4%, 14·3%, 16·3% and 8·2% of participants could detect sweet, sour, salty and bitter tastes, respectively, which was significantly lower than the independently living group for each taste (97·9%, 70·8%, 89·6% and 43·8% for sweet, sour, salty and bitter tastes, respectively). The multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that residing in nursing homes was associated with reduced sensitivity for four different tastes. The diseases and the situation of dependent elders were more likely the cause of the decreased taste sensitivity.
Experiences of Mothers in Romania after Hearing from Medical Professionals That Their Child Has a Disability
Authors: Collins Triona , Coughlan Barry
Published: March 2016

To help maintain the right of children with an intellectual disability to grow up in their family home, this study explored Romanian mothers’ experiences of overcoming the many challenges to the provision of care to assure a high quality of life for their child. Studied were mothers’ experiences upon being told by a professional that their child had a disability and of their experiences of caring for their children at home in the context of Romanian disability legislation and contact with local Disability Commissions. The data, obtained via an exploratory qualitative study, were based upon eight interviews with mothers of children with disabilities carried out with the assistance of a bilingual interpreter. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Two themes of “uncertainty” and “disempowering bureaucracy” were parsed from mothers’ various experiences. Due to various sociocultural barriers and unclear communication, mothers experienced uncertainty surrounding the diagnosis of their child's condition. In light of this uncertainty and the ambivalent attitudes of professionals, mothers experienced disempowering bureaucracy while striving to meet the annual requirements of their local Disability Commission. The study revealed gaps in the disclosure process of an intellectual disability that lead to uncertainty among the mothers toward professionals. The disempowering bureaucracy connected to the local Disability Commission impeded mothers access to community support and contributed toward a lack of understanding of the needs of their child.
Utility of a Modified Online Delphi Method to Define Workforce Competencies: Lessons from the Intellectual Disability Mental Health Core Competencies Project
Authors: Weise Janelle , Fisher Karen R. , Trollor Julian
Published: March 2016

The Delphi method has been previously used to define and reach consensus on core workforce attributes. However, limitations of the traditional Delphi method have been identified. A modified online Delphi method, which aims to address these limitations, was used as one part of the intellectual disability mental health core competencies project. The authors assess the utility of a modified online Delphi method to define and reach consensus on the core intellectual disability mental health workforce attributes and the lessons learned from using this approach. Thirty‐six intellectual disability mental health experts from across Australia participated in a modified online Delphi. At the end of each Delphi round the research team completed descriptive analyses for the quantitative data, and content and thematic analyses for the qualitative data. The research team subsequently critiqued the method in terms of its utility in defining workforce attributes. Authors identified several lessons from using this method to define core workforce attributes. In particular, it has highlighted the potential benefit of initiating the Delphi process with a developed framework that is familiar to the workforce; the benefit of using quantitative and qualitative methods; and the need to reconsider how to define participant consensus. This study confirmed the utility of a modified online Delphi method to identify and describe core workforce attributes, provided insights into the benefits and challenges of this method, and identified strategies for overcoming some of the commonly documented limitations of the Delphi method. However, it has also highlighted some additional challenges of the Delphi method that researchers have not commonly described within the published literature. The lessons provide useful insights for others planning to use the Delphi method.
Family Support inKinshasa, Democratic Republic of theCongo
Authors: Aldersey Heather M. , Turnbull Ann P. , Turnbull H. R.
Published: March 2016

Family support consists of formal (i.e., provided by professionals) and informal (i.e., provided by family and friends) assistance that responds to families’ emotional, physical, material/instrumental, and informational needs and is intended to enhance the quality of life of the family member with a disability and the family unit. The authors used a case study approach to examine a voluntary self‐help association to answer the questions: (1) what aspects of local self‐help entity provide effective and meaningful support to families who have a member with intellectual and developmental disability? and (2) what makes this support effective and meaningful? This study entailed a secondary analysis of data (interviews, observations, documents) collected over a 7‐month period in Kinshasa, DRC, to describe and examine a DRC‐based local voluntary self‐help association for family members of people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. The self‐help association examined provides emotional, physical, material/instrumental, and informational support to local families. Key reasons for the association's success include that it is grounded in local realities and led by charismatic, multidisciplinary, committed leaders. Key challenges of the association relate to a lack of sustainable funding and limited scope of impact outside of Kinshasa. The authors conclude that families themselves are often the first creators and providers of family support in conflict and postconflict contexts, where state priorities for family support of carers of persons with disabilities are often low or nonexistent. This case provides empirical evidence that families are currently self‐organizing to meet disability support needs in Kinshasa. As developing nations such as the DRC begin to structure more formal state programs for family support, they would be wise to partner with or formally engage existing experienced family associations to provide meaningful and effective disability‐related support.
Human periodontal ligament stem cells suppress T‐cell proliferation via down‐regulation of non‐classical major histocompatibility complex‐like glycoprotein CD1b on dendritic cells
Authors: Shin C. , Kim M. , Han J.‐A. , Choi B. , Hwang D. , Do Y. , Yun J.‐H.
Published: March 2016

Background and Objective

Periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) from the periodontal ligament tissue were recently identified as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). The capabilities of PDLSCs in periodontal tissue or bone regeneration have been reported, but their immunomodulatory role in T‐cell immune responses via dendritic cells (DCs), known as the most potent antigen‐presenting cell, has not been studied. The aim of this study is to understand the immunological function of homogeneous human STRO‐1+CD146+ PDLSCs in DC‐mediated T‐cell immune responses to modulate the periodontal disease process.

Material and Methods

We utilized highly purified (> 95%) human STRO‐1+CD146+ PDLSCs and human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). Each stem cell was co‐cultured with human monocyte‐derived DCs in the presence of lipopolysaccharide isolated from Porphyromonas gingivalis, a major pathogenic bacterium responsible for periodontal disease, in vitro to examine the immunological effect of each stem cell on DCs and DC‐mediated T‐cell proliferation.

Results

We discovered that STRO‐1+CD146+ PDLSCs, as well as BMSCs, significantly decreased the level of non‐classical major histocompatibility complex glycoprotein CD1b on DCs, resulting in defective T‐cell proliferation, whereas most human leukocyte antigens and the co‐stimulatory molecules CD80 and CD86 in/on DCs were not significantly affected by the presence of BMSCs or STRO‐1+CD146+ PDLSCs.

Conclusions

This study unveiled an immunomodulatory role of STRO‐1+CD146+ PDLSCs in negatively regulating DC‐mediated T‐cell immune responses, demonstrating their potential to be utilized in promising new stem cell therapies.
Initial Use of High‐Dose Anticholinergics Combined with Alpha‐Blockers for Male Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms with Overactive Bladder: A Prospective, Randomized Preliminary Study
Authors: LEE Kyu Won , HUR Kyung Jae , KIM Sang Hoon , CHO Su Yeon , BAE Sang Rak , PARK Bong Hee , LEE Yong Seok , HAN Chang Hee , KIM Hyun Woo
Published: March 2016

Objectives

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of initial combined treatment of alpha‐blocker plus dose‐dependent anticholinergic agent compared to the alpha‐blocker monotherapy in benign prostatic hyperplasia patients with overactive bladder.

Methods

Male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) patients with International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) of 8 or higher, total overactive bladder Symptom Score (OABSS) of 3 or higher, and 2 points or higher in the OABSS questionnaire number 2 were enrolled. Eligible subjects (total n = 146) were randomly assigned to receive tamsulosin 0.2 mg (Group I, n = 44), tamsulosin 0.2 mg plus solifenacin 5 mg (Group II, n = 55), or tamsulosin 0.2 mg plus solifenacin 10 mg (Group III, n = 47) for 12 weeks. Efficacy and safety assessments for each group were done using detailed questionnaires, and evaluating urinary parameters such as maximal urinary flow rate (Qmax) and postvoid residual volume (PVR) at 4 and 12 weeks.

Results

Groups II and III (combined use of tamsulosin and solifenacin) showed significant improvement in storage symptoms compared to group I (tamsulosin monotherapy), as reflected by IPSS storage subscore and OABSS (P < 0.05). Dry mouth developed in four (7%) and eight (17%) cases in group II and III, respectively, so that one (2%) and three (6%) cases dropped out in group II and III, respectively. Two cases (4%) of AUR developed in group III, and one of them was withdrawn (2%) from the study.

Conclusions

Initial combined treatment of tamsulosin plus solifenacin for men with LUTS improves storage symptoms significantly, but dose modification is necessary to prevent adverse events.
Brachystelma annamacharyae sp. nov. (Apocynaceae) from the Seshachalam hills of Andhra Pradesh (India)
Authors: Prasad K. , Prasanna P. V. , Meve Ulrich , Rao M. Sankara , Thulasaiah T.
Published: March 2016

Brachystelma annamacharyae K. Prasad, Prasanna, Meve, Sankara Rao & T. Thulasaiah, a new species from the Sanipaya beat in the Seshachalam hills in Andhra Pradesh (India) is described and illustrated. The new species shares the long filiform pedicels, reflexed corolla lobes and an exposed corona with its most closely allied species, B. swarupa from Kerala and B. ciliatum from Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, but differs from these by generally dwarfed and completely glabrous vegetative parts and uniflowered inflorescences, therby resembling certain South African species of the genus.
Seven new species of Hieracium sect. Tridentata (Asteraceae) from Götaland, southern Sweden
Authors: Nilsson Tommy , Tyler Torbjörn
Published: March 2016

Six new species of Hieracium sect. Tridentata, viz. H. piranhae, H. xanthochlorum, H. bertilssonii, H. erectiramum, H. rigescoides and H. subpardalinum are described from the Götaland region, southern Sweden and H. gothicum var. blekingense is raised to specific rank as H. blekingense.
Kuepferia kanchii sp. nov. (Gentianaceae) from Sikkim Himalaya
Authors: Maity D. , Dey S. K. , Favre A.
Published: March 2016

Kuepferia kanchii D. Maity, Sentu K. Dey & Adr. Favre, a new species from Sikkim Himalaya, is described and illustrated. It differs from its close relative K. infelix (C. B. Clarke) Adr. Favre ( = Gentiana infelix C. B. Clarke) by having sessile and smaller flowers, and smaller floral parts. Kuepferia kanchii is further characterized by a white corolla with bluish green patches on the outside at the base of each corolla lobe, and a corolla tube flushed with light green inside towards the base, blue filaments, sessile stigma, smaller capsule, and trigonous–elongated, ca 0.8 mm long and curved seeds.
Obesity is an independent risk factor for non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease: evidence from a meta‐analysis of 21 cohort studies
Authors: Li L. , Liu D. ‐W. , Yan H. ‐Y. , Wang Z. ‐Y. , Zhao S. ‐H. , Wang B.
Published: March 2016

Background

The association between obesity and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has not been fully quantified, and the magnitude of NAFLD risk associated with obesity is still unclear. A meta‐analysis of cohort studies was performed to elucidate the NAFLD risk associated with obesity.

Methods

Pubmed, Web of Science and Embase were searched for cohort studies assessing NAFLD risk associated with obesity or increased body mass index (BMI). Relative risks (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs) were pooled using random‐effects model of meta‐analysis.

Results

Twenty‐one cohort studies including 13 prospective studies and 8 retrospective studies were finally included. There were a total of 381,655 participants in the meta‐analysis. Compared with normal weight, obesity independently led to a 3.5‐fold increased risk of developing NAFLD (RR = 3.53, 95%CI 2.48 to 5.03, P < 0.001). Meta‐analysis also suggested an obvious dose‐dependent relationship between BMI and NAFLD risk (per 1‐unit increment in BMI: RR = 1.20, 95%CI 1.14 to 1.26, P < 0.001). Subgroup analyses further identified the robustness of the association above. No obvious risk of publication bias was observed.

Conclusion

Obese individuals have a 3.5‐fold increased risk of developing NAFLD, and there is an obvious dose‐dependent relationship between BMI and NAFLD risk. © 2016 World Obesity
Efficient removal of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers in barley: differential contribution of light‐dependent and dark DNA repair pathways
Authors: Manova Vasilissa , Georgieva Ralitsa , Borisov Borislav , Stoilov Lubomir
Published: March 2016

Barley stress response to ultraviolet radiation (UV) has been intensively studied at both the physiological and morphological level. However, the ability of barley genome to repair UV‐induced lesions at the DNA level is far less characterized. In this study, we have investigated the relative contribution of light‐dependent and dark DNA repair pathways for the efficient elimination of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) from the genomic DNA of barley leaf seedlings. The transcriptional activity of barley CPD photolyase gene in respect to the light‐growth conditions and UV‐C irradiation of the plants has also been analyzed. Our results show that CPDs induced in the primary barley leaf at frequencies potentially damaging DNA at the single‐gene level are removed efficiently and exclusively by photorepair pathway, whereas dark repair is hardly detectable, even at higher CPD frequency. A decrease of initially induced CPDs under dark is observed but only after prolonged incubation, suggesting the activation of light‐independent DNA damage repair and/or tolerance mechanisms. The green barley seedlings possess greater capacity for CPD photorepair than the etiolated ones, with efficiency of CPD removal dependent on the intensity and quality of recovering light. The higher repair rate of CPDs measured in the green leaves correlates with the higher transcriptional activity of barley CPD photolyase gene. Visible light and UV‐C radiation affect differentially the expression of CPD photolyase gene particularly in the etiolated leaves. We propose that the CPD repair potential of barley young seedlings may influence their response to UV‐stress.
Morphology and Aquaporin Immunohistochemistry of the Uterine Tube of Saanen Goats (Capra hircus): Comparison Throughout the Reproductive Cycle
Authors: Arrighi S , Bosi G , Frattini S , Coizet B , Groppetti D , Pecile A
Published: March 2016

Contents

The expression of six different aquaporins (AQP1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 9), integral membrane water channels that facilitate bi‐directional passive movement of water, was investigated by immunohistochemistry in the uterine tube of pre‐pubertal and adult Saanen goats (Capra hircus), comparing the different phases of the oestrous cycle. Regional morphology and secretory processes were markedly different during the goat oestrous cycle. The tested AQP molecules showed different expression patterns in comparison with already studied species. AQP1‐immunoreactivity was evidenced at the endothelium of blood vessels and in nerve fibres, regardless of the tubal tract and cycle period. AQP4‐immunoreactivity was shown on the lateral plasmalemma in the basal third of the epithelial cells at infundibulum and ampulla level in the cycling goats, more evidently during follicular than during luteal phase. No AQP4‐immunoreactivity was noticed at the level of the isthmus region, regardless of the cycle phase. AQP5‐immunoreactivity, localized at the apical surface of epithelial cells, increased from pre‐puberty to adulthood. Thereafter, AQP5‐immunoreactivity was prominent during the follicular phase, when it strongly decorated the apical plasmalemma of all epithelial cells at ampullary level. During luteal phase, immunoreactivity was discontinuous, being weak to strong at the apex of the secretory cells protruding into the lumen. In the isthmus region, the strongest AQP5‐immunoreactivity was seen during follicular phase, with a clear localization in the apical plasmalemma of all the epithelial cells and also on the lateral plasmalemma. AQP2, 3 and 9 were undetectable all along the goat uterine tube. Likely, a collaboration of different AQP molecules sustains the fluid production in the goat uterine tube. AQP1‐mediated transudation from the blood capillaries, together with permeation of the epithelium by AQP4 in the basal rim of the epithelial cells and final intervening of apical AQP5, could be involved in fluid production as well as in secretory processes.
A spatial multicriteria decision analysis for selecting priority sites for plant species restoration: a case study from the Chilean biodiversity hotspot
Authors: Fernández Ignacio C. , Morales Narkis S.
Published: March 2016

Developing conservation strategies to restore populations of threatened species has been signaled as an important task by the Convention on Biological Diversity 2011–2020 targets. Species are being threatened not only by habitat loss and fragmentation but increasingly by climate change. As resources for conservation are often limited, and restoration is among the most expensive conservation strategies, developing approaches that help in the prioritization of areas for restoration efforts is a critical task. In this study, we propose a spatial multicriteria decision analysis (SMCDA) framework for identifying potential areas for plant species restoration initiatives that can explicitly take into account future climatic change. As a way to show how the framework can be applied, we took advantage of freely available niche modeling software and geospatial information to identify regional‐scale priority areas for restoration of two threatened endemic tree species (i.e. Bielschmiedia miersii and Pouteria splendens) of the “Chilean Winter Rainfall‐Valdivian Forest” Hotspot. The SMCDA framework allowed us not only to identify priority areas for species restoration but also to analyze how different environmental conditions and land‐use types may affect the selection of areas for species restoration. Our analysis suggests that the inclusion of climate change is a key factor to assess the potential areas for species restoration because species may respond differentially to future climatic conditions. This framework is conceived to be used as a complementary approach to available landscape‐scale spatial conservation planning tools.
DOES REGIONAL INTEGRATION AFFECT EFFICIENCY AND PRODUCTIVITY GROWTH? EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE FROM SOUTH ASIA
Authors: Islam Amirul , Salim Ruhul , Bloch Harry
Published: March 2016

This article examines the impact of intra‐regional trade creation initiatives through the South Asian free trade agreement on various aspects of efficiency and productivity growth in South Asia. Applying both stochastic frontier and data envelopment analyses on panel data, this study finds that most countries in South Asia have suffered from a total factor productivity decline, even after the 2006 implementation of the regional free trade agreement. There are, however, substantial variations in technical inefficiencies and total factor productivity growth among the South Asian countries, suggesting possibilities of productivity improvement for lagging countries through cross‐border resource flows.
MICA,MICB Polymorphisms and Linkage Disequilibrium with HLA‐B in a Chinese Mongolian Population
Authors: Wang W. Y. , Tian W. , Zhu F.M. , Liu X. X. , Li L. X. , Wang F.
Published: March 2016

In this study, polymorphisms of major histocompatibility complex class I chain‐related genes A and B (MICA and MICB) and human leucocyte antigen (HLA)‐B gene were investigated for 158 unrelated Chinese Mongolian subjects recruited from central Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, northern China, by polymerase chain reaction–sequence‐based typing (PCR‐SBT) and cloning. Collectively, 79 alleles, including 20 MICA, 12 MICB and 47 HLA‐B alleles, were identified. MICA*008:01 (21.2%), MICB*005:02 (48.1%) and HLA‐B*51:01 (7.91%) were the most common alleles. Significant global linkage disequilibrium (LD) was detected between HLA‐B and MICA, HLA‐B and MICB, and MICA and MICB loci (all P < 0.000001). The most frequent haplotypes were HLA‐B*51:01‐MICA*009:01 (7.28%), HLA‐B*58:01‐MICB*008 (6.96%), MICA*010‐MICB*005:02 (13.92%) and HLA‐B*58:01‐MICA*002:01‐MICB*008 (6.96%). HLA‐B‐MICA haplotypes such as HLA‐B*50:01‐MICA*009:02 were associated with single MICB allele. Some HLA‐B‐MICA haplotypes were associated with multiple MICB alleles, including HLA‐B*51:01‐MICA*009:01. One novel MICB allele, MICB*031, was identified, which has possibly arisen from MICB*002:01 through single mutation event. We also confirmed the existence of a recently recognized MICA allele, MICA*073, whose ethnic origin has not been previously described. Genotype distributions at MICA, MICB and HLA‐B were consistent with a neutrality model. Our results provide new insight into MIC genetic polymorphisms in Chinese ethnic groups. Findings shown here are important from an anthropologic perspective and will inform future studies of the potential role of MIC genes in allogeneic organ transplantation and HLA‐linked disease association in populations of related ancestry.
The Effect of Having Aggressive Friends on Aggressive Behavior in Childhood: Using Propensity Scores to Strengthen Causal Inference
Authors: Henneberger Angela K. , Coffman Donna L. , Gest Scott D.
Published: March 2016

This study used propensity scores to statistically approximate the causal effect of having aggressive friends on aggressive behavior in childhood. Participants were 1355 children (53 percent girls; 31 percent minority) in 97 third and fifth grade classrooms enrolled in the Classroom Peer Ecologies Project. Propensity scores were calculated to control for the impact of 21 relevant confounder variables related to having aggressive friendships and aggressive behavior. The 21 variables included demographic, social, and behavioral characteristics measured at the beginning of the school year. Presence/absence of aggressive friends was measured in the middle of the school year, and aggressive behavior was measured at the end of the school year. Results indicated a significant effect of having one or more aggressive friends on children's aggressive behavior above and beyond the effects of the 21 demographic, social, and behavioral variables. The propensity score model was compared with two other models of peer influence. The strengths and practical challenges of using propensity score analysis to study peer influence were discussed.
The Buffering Role of Social Support on the Psychosocial Wellbeing of Orphans in Rwanda
Authors: Caserta Tehetna Alemu , Punamäki Raija‐Leena , Pirttilä‐Backman Anna‐Maija
Published: March 2016

Little is known about the buffering role of social support among orphans living in Africa. This study examined (1) how perceived social support (PSS) varied across orphan‐related characteristics (e.g., orphan status, such as single, maternal or paternal, and their living environments, such as in child‐headed households, on the street, in an orphanage or in a foster home) and (2) the relative importance of sources of PSS (relatives/community/adults and peers) and functional social support (emotional/informational/instrumental and social) and its association with emotional well‐being and mental distress. The participants included 430 orphaned Rwandan children and youth aged between 10 and 25 years (Mean age = 17.74), of whom (n = 179, 41.6%) were females and (n = 251, 58.4%) were males. Result showed that children living in an orphanage exhibited a higher level of PSS from all sources of social support than did children in other living environments. A higher level of PSS from relatives, communities and adults was associated with high level of emotional well‐being, and only adult support was associated with low level of mental distress. Furthermore, the functional PSS indicated that emotional support and companionship support were equally important in their association with higher levels of emotional well‐being and lower levels of mental distress. The findings highlight the importance of having different sources of social support and their functions in relation to psychosocial well‐being.
The ‘Good Farmer’: Farmer Identities and the Control of Exotic Livestock Disease in England
Authors: Naylor Rhiannon , Hamilton‐Webb Alice , Little Ruth , Maye Damian
Published: March 2016

Exotic livestock disease outbreaks have the capacity to significantly impact individual livestock keepers, as well as devastate an entire industry sector. However, there has been limited research undertaken to understand how farmers think about and carry out exotic livestock disease control practices within the social sciences. Drawing on aspects of Social Identity Theory and Self‐Categorisation Theory, this article explores how the ‘good farmer’ identity concept influences farmers’ exotic livestock disease control practices. Using findings from an in‐depth, large‐scale qualitative study with animal keepers and veterinarians, the article identifies three context specific and at times conflicting ‘good farmer’ identities. Additionally, a defensive component is noted whereby farmers suggest an inability to carry out their role as a ‘good farmer’ due to government failings, poor practice undertaken by ‘bad farmers’, as well as the uncontrollable nature of exotic disease.
HLA‐B*40:327, a novel HLA‐B*40 variant, discovered in a Taiwanese blood donor
Authors: Yang K. L. , Hung J. H. , Lin P. Y.
Published: March 2016

One nucleotide substitution at residue 220 of HLA‐B*40:01:01 results in a new allele, HLA‐B*40:327
Ligation of FcγR Alters Phagosomal Processing of Protein via Augmentation of NADPH Oxidase Activity
Authors: Balce Dale R. , Rybicka Joanna M. , Greene Catherine J. , Ewanchuk Benjamin W. , Yates Robin M.
Published: March 2016

Proteolysis and the reduction of disulfides, both major components of protein degradation, are profoundly influenced by phagosomal redox conditions in macrophages. We evaluated the activation of phagocytic receptors that are known to influence activation of the phagocyte NADPH oxidase (NOX2), and its effect on phagosomal protein degradation. Population‐based and single phagosome analyses of phagosomal chemistries in murine macrophages revealed that activation of NOX2 via the Fcγ receptor (FcγR) during phagocytosis decreased rates of proteolysis and disulfide reduction. Immunoglobulin G (IgG)‐stimulated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and the inhibition of phagosomal proteolysis and disulfide reduction were dependent on NOX2, FcγR and protein kinase C (PKC)/spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) signaling. In contrast, low levels of ROS production were observed following the phagocytosis of unopsonized beads, which resulted in higher rates of phagosomal proteolysis and disulfide reduction. Phagosomes displayed autonomy with respect to FcγR‐mediated differences in NOX2 activation and proteolysis, as phagosomes containing unopsonized cargo retained low NOX2 activation and high proteolysis even in the presence of phagosomes containing IgG‐opsonized cargo in the same macrophage. These results show that opsonization of phagocytic cargo results in vastly different phagosomal processing of proteins through the FcγR‐triggered, PKC/Syk‐dependent local assembly and activation of NOX2.
Desensitization with plasma exchange in a patient with human leukocyte antigen donor‐specific antibodies before T‐cell–replete haploidentical transplantation
Authors: Bramanti Stefania , Nocco Angela , Mauro Elisa , Milone Giuseppe , Morabito Lucio , Sarina Barbara , Crocchiolo Roberto , Timofeeva Inna , Capizzuto Rossana , Carlo‐Stella Carmelo , Santoro Armando , Castagna Luca
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND

The presence of human leukocyte antigen donor‐specific antibodies (DSAs) increases the risk of graft failure in T‐cell–replete haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (haplo‐HSCT)

CASE REPORT

A 49‐year‐old female with high‐risk acute myeloid leukemia in first complete remission received a haplo‐HSCT from her daughter. Pretransplant recipient screening examination showed high DSAs levels against unshared class I leukocyte antigens.

RESULTS

The patient underwent a desensitization program consisting of plasma exchange (PEX), polyvalent intravenous (IV) immunoglobulins, and IV tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF). This protocol resulted in the disappearance of the DSA anti HLA B41. Engraftment was prompt with stable full donor chimerism.

CONCLUSIONS

This case report suggests that the adopted scheme is safe for reducing DSA levels and facilitating donor engraftment in patients scheduled for haplo‐HSCT.