bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic review: the management of hepatic cyst infection
Authors: Lantinga M. A. , Geudens A. , Gevers T. J. G. , Drenth J. P. H.
Published: December 2014

Background

Cyst infection is a severe complication of hepatic cystic disease. However, an evidence‐based treatment strategy is not available.

Aim

To assess the available treatment strategies and provide a treatment advice for de novo hepatic cyst infection.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed (1948–2014), EMBASE (1974–2014), and the Cochrane Library (until 2014) for studies involving humans (≥18 years) treated for a hepatic cyst infection. We extracted data on patient characteristics, treatment and follow‐up.

Results

We identified 41 articles; all were case series or case reports, implicating a high risk of bias. We included 54 hepatic cyst infection cases (male 39%; mean age 63 ± 12 years; diabetes 6%; dialysis 19%; transplant recipients 30%). Initial therapy consisted of antimicrobial (56%), percutaneous (31%) or surgical treatment (13%). We identified 42 antimicrobial regimens consisting of 23 different combinations. Most used antibiotic classes were quinolones (34%) and cephalosporins (34%). Antimicrobials failed in 70% of cases, eventually requiring percutaneous or surgical treatment in, respectively, 37% and 27%. Recurrent hepatic cyst infection was frequent (20%). Median time to recurrence was 8 weeks (IQR 3–24 weeks). In 46%, recurrence occurred in renal transplant recipients. Cyst infection related deaths occurred in 9%, of whom 40% were on dialysis.

Conclusions

The literature shows that treatment of hepatic cyst infection is highly heterogeneous. We recommend first line treatment with oral ciprofloxacin. In case of failure, percutaneous cyst drainage needs to be considered.
An Integrated Risk Reduction Intervention can reduce body mass index in individuals being treated for bipolar I disorder: results from a randomized trial
Authors: Frank Ellen , Wallace Meredith L , Hall Martica , Hasler Brant , Levenson Jessica C , Janney Carol A , Soreca Isabella , Fleming Matthew C , Buttenfield Joan , Ritchey Fiona C , Kupfer David J
Published: December 2014

Objectives

We conducted a randomized, controlled trial comparing the efficacy of an Integrated Risk Reduction Intervention (IRRI) to a control condition with the objective of improving mood stability and psychosocial functioning by reducing cardiometabolic risk factors in overweight/obese patients with bipolar I disorder.

Methods

A total of 122 patients were recruited from our outpatient services and randomly allocated to IRRI (n = 61) or psychiatric care with medical monitoring (n = 61). Individuals allocated to IRRI received psychiatric treatment and assessment, medical monitoring by a nurse, and a healthy lifestyle program from a lifestyle coach. Those allocated to the control condition received psychiatric treatment and assessment and referral, if indicated, for medical problems. A mixed‐effects model was used to examine the impact of the interventions on body mass index (BMI). Exploratory moderator analyses were used to characterize those individuals likely to benefit from each treatment approach.

Results

Analyses were conducted on data for the IRRI (n = 58) and control (n = 56) participants with ≥1 study visit. IRRI was associated with a significantly greater rate of decrease in BMI (d = −0.51, 95% confidence interval: −0.91 to −0.14). Three variables (C‐reactive protein, total cholesterol, and instability of total sleep time) contributed to a combined moderator of faster decrease in BMI with IRRI treatment.

Conclusions

Overweight/obese patients with bipolar disorder can make modest improvements in BMI, even when taking medications with known potential for weight gain. Our finding that a combination of three baseline variables provides a profile of patients likely to benefit from IRRI will need to be tested further to evaluate its utility in clinical practice.
Conforming to coordinate: Children use majority information for peer coordination
Authors: Grueneisen Sebastian , Wyman Emily , Tomasello Michael
Published: December 2014

Humans are constantly required to coordinate their behaviour with others. As this often relies on everyone's convergence on the same strategy (e.g., driving on the left side of the road), a common solution is to conform to majority behaviour. In this study, we presented 5‐year‐old children with a coordination problem: To retrieve some rewards, they had to choose the same of four options as a peer partner – in reality a stooge – whose decision they were unable to see. Before making a choice, they watched a video showing how other children from their partner's peer group had behaved; a majority chose the same option and a minority chose a different one. In a control condition, children watched the same video but could then retrieve the reward irrespective of their partner's choice (i.e., no coordination was necessary). Children followed the majority more often when coordination was required. Moreover, conformers mostly justified their choices by referring to the majority from the video demonstration. This study is the first to show that young children are able to strategically coordinate decisions with peers by conforming to the majority.
Dynamic Changes of Microglia/Macrophage M1 and M2 Polarization in Theiler's Murine Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Herder Vanessa , Iskandar Cut Dahlia , Kegler Kristel , Hansmann Florian , Elmarabet Suliman Ahmed , Khan Muhammad Akram , Kalkuhl Arno , Deschl Ulrich , Baumgärtner Wolfgang , Ulrich Reiner , Beineke Andreas
Published: December 2014

Microglia and macrophages play a central role for demyelination in Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis (TME) virus infection, a commonly used infectious model for chronic‐progressive multiple sclerosis. In order to determine the dynamic changes of microglia/macrophage polarization in TME, the spinal cord of Swiss Jim Lambert (SJL) mice was investigated by gene expression profiling and immunofluorescence. Virus persistence and demyelinating leukomyelitis were confirmed by immunohistochemistry and histology. Electron microscopy revealed continuous myelin loss together with abortive myelin repair during the late chronic infection phase indicative of incomplete remyelination. A total of 59 genes out of 151 M1‐ and M2‐related genes were differentially expressed in TME virus‐infected mice over the study period. The onset of virus‐induced demyelination was associated with a dominating M1 polarization, while mounting M2 polarization of macrophages/microglia together with sustained prominent M1‐related gene expression was present during the chronic‐progressive phase. Molecular results were confirmed by immunofluorescence, showing an increased spinal cord accumulation of CD16/32+ M1‐, arginase‐1+ M2‐ and Ym1+ M2‐type cells associated with progressive demyelination. The present study provides a comprehensive database of M1‐/M2‐related gene expression involved in the initiation and progression of demyelination supporting the hypothesis that perpetuating interaction between virus and macrophages/microglia induces a vicious circle with persistent inflammation and impaired myelin repair in TME.
Modeling the Ecological and Phenological Predictors of Fruit Consumption by Gibbons (Hylobates albibarbis)
Authors: Dillis Christopher , Beaudrot Lydia , Feilen Katie L. , Clink Dena J. , Wittmer Heiko U. , Marshall Andrew J.
Published: December 2014

Understanding the ecological interactions between plant reproductive strategies and frugivore feeding behavior can offer insight into the maintenance of tropical forest biodiversity. We examined the role of plant ecological and phenological characteristics in influencing fruit consumption by the White‐bearded gibbon (Hylobates albibarbis) in Gunung Palung National Park, Indonesian Borneo. Gibbons are widespread across Borneo, highly frugivorous and perform important seed dispersal services. We compare multiple models using information criteria to identify the ecological and phenological predictors that most strongly influence gibbon fruit use of 154 plant genera. The most important predictors of resource use were the overall abundance of a genus and the consistency of fruit availability. Plant genera can maintain constant fruit availability as a result of (1) individual stems fruiting often or (2) stems fruiting out of synchrony with each other (asynchrony). Our results demonstrate that gibbons prefer to feed on plant genera that provide consistent fruit availability due to fruiting asynchrony. Because gibbons feed more often on genera that fruit asynchronously, gibbons are more likely to disperse seeds of plant genera with this reproductive strategy. Research on other frugivorous species is needed to determine whether the results for gibbons are generalizable more broadly. Finally, these results suggest that asynchronously fruiting plant genera may be particularly important for habitat restoration in tropical forests designed for frugivore conservation.
Differential Responses of Dipterocarp Seedlings to Soil Moisture and Microtopography
Authors: Born Julia , Bagchi Robert , Burslem David , Nilus Reuben , Tellenbach Christoph , Pluess Andrea R. , Ghazoul Jaboury
Published: December 2014

Niche diversification is prominent among the mechanisms proposed to explain tropical rain forest tree diversity, with many studies focusing on trade‐offs among shade tolerance and growth. Less obvious is the impact of occasional, ephemeral and often minor disturbances on tree seedling survival. We propose that differential tolerances to soil waterlogging can contribute to the distribution of tree seedling communities along microtopographical gradients. We test this hypothesis experimentally by evaluating survival and performance of planted seedlings across microtopographical gradients in a periodically inundated tropical rain forest environment. Survival and relative growth rates were assessed for six Shorea (Dipterocarpaceae) species in Sepilok Forest Reserve (Sabah, Malaysia) over a 2‐yr period, during which seedlings were subjected to two brief flooding events. The species were selected on the basis of soil habitat affinities, with two species being primarily associated with low‐lying alluvial flats subject to inundation, two being associated with non‐flooded mudstone hills, and two species occurring in both habitats. Seedling performance was related to microtopographic elevation within and among plots and to soil moisture among plots. The faster growing species, Shorea argentifolia, Shorea leprosula and Shorea parvifolia, tended to be more vulnerable to high soil moisture in terms of mortality than the three species with lower growth rates. Within plots, soil moisture was inversely correlated with microelevation, and seedlings located at higher microelevations had an increased probability of survival. Microtopographical differences in seedling position could therefore contribute to species assembly processes through differential mortality, particularly in areas subject to minor and ephemeral flooding events.
Evolution and Conservation of Central African Biodiversity: Priorities for Future Research and Education in the Congo Basin and Gulf of Guinea
Authors: Anthony Nicola M. , Atteke Christiane , Bruford Michael W. , Dallmeier Francisco , Freedman Adam , Hardy Olivier , Ibrahim Brama , Jeffery Kathryn J. , Johnson Mireille , Lahm Sally A. , Lepengue Nicaise , Lowenstein Jacob H. , Maisels Fiona , Mboumba Jean‐François , Mickala Patrick , Morgan Katy , Ntie Stephan , Smith Thomas B. , Sullivan John P. , Verheyen Erik , Gonder Mary K.
Published: December 2014

The tropical forests of the Congo Basin and Gulf of Guinea harbor some of the greatest terrestrial and aquatic biological diversity in the world. However, our knowledge of the rich biological diversity of this region and the evolutionary processes that have shaped it remains limited, as is our understanding of the capacity for species to adapt or otherwise respond to current and projected environmental change. In this regard, research efforts are needed to increase current scientific knowledge of this region's biodiversity, identify the drivers of past diversification, evaluate the potential for species to adapt to environmental change and identify key populations for future conservation. Moreover, when evolutionary research is combined with ongoing environmental monitoring efforts, it can also provide an important set of tools for assessing and mitigating the impacts of development activities. Building on a set of recommendations developed at an international workshop held in Gabon in 2011, we highlight major areas for future evolutionary research that could be directly tied to conservation priorities for the region. These research priorities are centered around five disciplinary themes: (1) documenting and discovering biodiversity; (2) identifying drivers of evolutionary diversification; (3) monitoring environmental change; (4) understanding community and ecosystem level processes; (5) investigating the ecology and epidemiology of disease from an evolutionary perspective (evolutionary epidemiology). Furthermore, we also provide an overview of the needs and priorities for biodiversity education and training in Central Africa.
Father's involvement in the lives of children in foster care
Authors: Icard Larry D. , Fagan Jay , Lee Yookyong , Rutledge Scott E.
Published: December 2014

Limited understandings exist about non‐resident fathers' views of their involvement with their children in foster care placements. Guided by the ecological systems framework, the purpose of this exploratory study was to gain insights into fathers' perceptions of their involvement with a child in foster care. Data were collected from demographic questionnaires and two focus groups with 17 men. Fathers expressed how kinship compared with non‐kinship placements affected their involvement. Fathers were also in agreement that their financial hardships were a significant factor affecting their involvement. Several fathers also reported how they experienced discrimination in the child welfare system as men. Surprisingly, uncommon to findings from other studies, few men viewed the child's mother as being a barrier to their involvement. The findings provide insights into factors requiring attention to help non‐residential fathers become involved with their children.
Mechanisms of Intrinsic Epileptogenesis in Human Gelastic Seizures with Hypothalamic Hamartoma
Authors: Wu Jie , Gao Ming , Shen Jian‐Xin , Qiu Shen‐Feng , Kerrigan John F.
Published: December 2014

Human hypothalamic hamartoma (HH) is a rare developmental malformation often characterized by gelastic seizures, which are refractory to medical therapy. IctalEEGrecordings from theHHhave demonstrated that the epileptic source of gelastic seizures lies within theHHlesion itself. Recent advances in surgical techniques targetingHHhave led to dramatic improvements in seizure control, which further supports the hypothesis that gelastic seizures originate within theHH. However, the basic cellular and molecular mechanisms of epileptogenesis in this subcortical lesion are poorly understood. Since 2003, Barrow Neurological Institute has maintained a multidisciplinary clinical program to evaluate and treat patients withHH. This program has provided a unique opportunity to investigate the basic mechanisms of epileptogenesis using surgically resectedHHtissue. The first report on the electrophysiological properties ofHHneurons was published in 2005. Since then, ongoing research has provided additional insights into the mechanisms by whichHHgenerate seizure activity. In this review, we summarize this progress and propose a cellular model that suggests thatGABA‐mediated excitation contributes to epileptogenesis inHHlesions.
Acute and Chronic Efficacy of Bumetanide in an in vitro Model of Posttraumatic Epileptogenesis
Authors: Dzhala Volodymyr , Staley Kevin J.
Published: December 2014

Background

Seizures triggered by acute injuries to the developing brain respond poorly to first‐line medications that target the inhibitory chloride‐permeable GABAA receptor. Neuronal injury is associated with profound increases in cytoplasmic chloride ([Cl−]i) resulting in depolarizing GABA signaling, higher seizure propensity and limited efficacy of GABAergic anticonvulsants. The Na+‐K+‐2Cl− (NKCC1) cotransporter blocker bumetanide reduces [Cl−]i and causes more negative GABA equilibrium potential in injured neurons. We therefore tested both the acute and chronic efficacy of bumetanide on early posttraumatic ictal‐like epileptiform discharges and epileptogenesis.

Methods

Acute hippocampal slices were used as a model of severe traumatic brain injury and posttraumatic epileptogenesis. Hippocampal slices were then incubated for 3 weeks. After a 1‐week latent period, slice cultures developed chronic spontaneous ictal‐like discharges. The anticonvulsant and anti‐epileptogenic efficacy of bumetanide, phenobarbital, and the combination of these drugs was studied.

Results

Bumetanide reduced the frequency and power of early posttraumatic ictal‐like discharges in vitro and enhanced the anticonvulsant efficacy of phenobarbital. Continuous 2–3 weeks administration of bumetanide as well as phenobarbital in combination with bumetanide failed to prevent posttraumatic ictal‐like discharges and epileptogenesis.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate a persistent contribution of NKCC1 cotransport in posttraumatic ictal‐like activity, presumably as a consequence of chronic alterations in neuronal chloride homeostasis and GABA‐mediated inhibition. New strategies for more effective reduction in posttraumatic and seizure‐induced [Cl−]i accumulation could provide the basis for effective treatments for posttraumatic epileptogenesis and the resultant seizures.
ECONOMIC FREEDOM AND STATE BOND RATINGS
Authors: Belasen Ariel R. , Hafer Rik W. , Jategaonkar Shrikant P.
Published: December 2014

Are state bond ratings, ceteris paribus, related to economic freedom? We test for the relationship between economic freedom and an aggregate index comprised of ratings by Standard & Poor, Moody's, and Fitch. We also test for a relationship between economic freedom and the ratings by these three agencies individually. With a sample covering all 50 states for the period 1995–2008, the evidence strongly indicates that state bond ratings are positively and significantly related to overall economic freedom as well as three sub‐categories of economic freedom. Our results show that the quantitative impact of economic freedom on bond ratings is comparable to the effect of state real income and the unemployment rate. (JEL E43, H71)
Psychometric properties of functional balance tests in children: a literature review
Authors: Verbecque Evi , Lobo Da Costa Paula Hentschel , Vereeck Luc , Hallemans Ann
Published: December 2014

Aim

Identifying balance problems are the first step towards monitoring and rehabilitation. Therefore, this paper aims to make an overview of the psychometric properties of the functional balance tests available for children.

Method

A literature search was performed in PubMED and Web of Science on 8 February 2014 and updated on 6 July 2014. A conceptual framework for functional balance tests was defined, taking balance control components and task constraints into account. The tests were selected for inclusion by consensus of 2‐3 reviewers using the conceptual framework.

Results

Fourteen tests were investigated in 25 articles and analysed within the conceptual framework. The Timed Up and Go test, Pediatric Balance Scale, and Pediatric Reach Test are well investigated and all show good reliability. Validity remains unclear because of lack of a criterion standard to measure balance control.

Interpretation

Because of the lack of good methodological studies, strong evidence for the use of one or more functional balance tests in children cannot be provided. Moreover, it is necessary that a criterion standard to measure balance is established.
Spatial Competition and Interdependence in Strategic Decisions: Empirical Evidence from Franchising
Authors: Chen Shaoling , Wang Susheng , Yang Haisheng
Published: December 2014

This article investigates spatial competition and spatial interdependence in two key strategic variables in franchising: the proportion of franchised outlets (PFO; i.e.,franchise proportion) and the royalty rate. Employing a simultaneous equations model and data from 353U.S. franchise chains in 43 sectors in 2005, we find robust evidence for significant spatial competition and stable interdependence in these two strategic variables. Specifically, we find spatial competition in each strategic variable, and spatial interdependence between the two strategic variables. Each strategic variable and its spatial lag are strategic complements in spatial competition due to the market share effect, while the two strategic variables are strategic substitutes in spatial interdependence due to the market power effect, and the former effect is stronger than the latter effect. Besides, we also find that franchisors are strongly inclined to a combination of a low royalty rate and a high franchise proportion, which evolves and stabilizes in the long‐run equilibrium. These findings provide a consistent framework with which to explain many stylized facts in franchising, such as the time‐invariance of a uniform royalty rate, the stability of a mixed organizational structure, and the coexistence of head‐on competition and diversification of chains of different sizes.
Multiple paternity and mating group size in the European earwig, Forficula auricularia
Authors: SANDRIN LINA , MEUNIER JOËL , RAVEH SHIRLEY , WALSER JEAN‐CLAUDE , KÖLLIKER MATHIAS
Published: December 2014

1. The patterns of multiple paternity among the progeny of females are key properties of genetic mating systems. Female multiple mating should evolve due to direct or indirect benefits, but it may also partly be driven by the encounter rate with different potential mates.

2. In this study this hypothesis was experimentally tested in the European earwig (Forficula auricularia L.) by establishing experimental mating groups that differed in the number of males and females (i.e. density). The number of sires and mean sibling relatedness in each clutch were estimated using microsatellite‐based paternity analysis.

3. As predicted, the mean number of sires per clutch was significantly increased, and sibling relatedness decreased, in the higher density treatment where more potential male mates were available. This change was less than proportional to the number of males in the mating groups, indicating that mechanisms limiting multiple paternity in large mating groups were involved. There were no significant relationships between female reproductive success or male siring success with morphology (body size, weight, and forceps size).

4. The present results show that multiple paternity in F. auricularia clutches is partly determined by the availability of male mates and suggest that this effect is modulated by mechanisms in males and/or females that limit multiple paternity.
Dimensions of Precariousness in an Emerging Sector of Self‐Employment: A Study of Self‐Employed Nurses
Authors: Wall Sarah
Published: December 2014

Changing economic ideologies and a new emphasis on entrepreneurial opportunities have led to a rise in self‐employment in Canada, especially among women. Although some people benefit from self‐employment, it is considered to be a precarious form of employment. Despite a growing body of literature on gender and self‐employment, there is more to learn about its precarious nature across industries and types of entrepreneurs. This ethnographic study examines the experiences of self‐employed nurses in order to better understand self‐employment in professional caring work. In some ways, these nurses' experiences fit with what is known about female self‐employment but this specific sector highlights how precariousness can take different forms across different areas of work. In particular, this study reveals new insights about the complexity and ambiguity of precariousness.
Alteration of N‐glycan profiles in patients with chronic hepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Miyahara Koji , Nouso Kazuhiro , Dohi Chihiro , Morimoto Yuki , Kinugasa Hideaki , Wada Nozomu , Takeuchi Yasuto , Kuwaki Kenji , Onishi Hideki , Ikeda Fusao , Miyake Yasuhiro , Nakamura Shinichiro , Shiraha Hidenori , Takaki Akinobu , Amano Maho , Nishimura Shin‐Ichiro , Yamamoto Kazuhide
Published: December 2014

Aim

Most of the modification of N‐glycosylation reported in cancers including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) were based on the examinations of a small number of patients or particular proteins. The aim of this study is to reveal changes in whole serum N‐glycan profiles systematically during the process of hepatocarcinogenesis and to elucidate their clinical application.

Methods

We analyzed sera from 105 patients with chronic hepatitis/liver cirrhosis (CH/LC) and age‐/sex‐matched healthy volunteers (HLT), as well as from 114 patients with HCC. Serum N‐glycan profiles were measured comprehensively by a new, quantitative, high‐throughput method and compared with clinical parameters.

Results

The total amount of N‐glycan expression was significantly higher in patients with CH/LC than in HLT; however, no differences were observed between CH/LC and HCC patients. In HCC patients, multi‐antennary glycans with fucose residues, particularly m/z 3195, were increased compared with CH/LC patients. The expression of m/z 3195 was high, especially in patients with a high number of intrahepatic lesions (>3), large tumor size (>3 cm), macroscopic vascular invasion or metastasis. The ratio of pairs of glycans on the same path of the biosynthesis pathway (m/z 3195/1914) showed a higher area under the receiver–operator curve of 0.810 than any other single glycan to distinguish HCC from CH/LC.

Conclusion

We demonstrate the full spectrum of the alterations of serum N‐glycans comprehensively in patients with liver disease, and elucidate the possible use of glycans as novel biomarkers of liver disease progression.
Barriers to shared decisions in the most serious of cancers: a qualitative study of patients with pancreatic cancer treated in the UK
Authors: Ziebland Sue , Chapple Alison , Evans Julie
Published: December 2014

Background

Less than 20% of patients with pancreatic cancer present with localized, potentially curable tumours. Even when potentially curative surgery is possible, mortality is high. Only 20–25% of patients who have had resected ductal adenocarcinoma of the pancreatic head survive 5 years. Other treatments include chemotherapy, radiotherapy and palliative care.

Aim

To explore patients' perceptions of barriers to shared decision making in a condition in which shared decision making might be difficult.

Method

Thematic analysis of narrative interviews with 32 people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the UK; interviews with a social scientist, usually in people's homes.

Results

We found that barriers to shared decisions include the idea that investigations are conducted to determine whether the patient qualifies for surgery, rather than to establish whether surgery is an option to consider; a sense of being pressured to accept treatment, a sense that in a life‐threatening situation, there are no ‘real options’; and the confusion that can be caused when clinical opinions differ.

Conclusion

We need to ask how patients can be expected to engage in an informed, shared decision if they are made to feel that they are one of the ‘winners’ if they qualify for surgery. When each treatment decision might have serious consequences for a patient's remaining months, we suggest that there is a particularly strong imperative to make sure that the patient is not subject to other people's assumptions about what is best for them and that patients are offered the opportunity to share in decisions.
Knockdown of T‐bet expression in Mart‐127–35‐specific T‐cell‐receptor‐engineered human CD4+ CD25− and CD8+ T cells attenuates effector function
Authors: Jha Sidharth S. , Chakraborty Nitya G. , Singh Prashant , Mukherji Bijay , Dorsky David I.
Published: December 2014

Gene transfer to create tumour epitope‐specific cytolytic T cells for adoptive immunotherapy of cancer remains an area of active inquiry. When the Mart‐127–35‐specific DMF5 T‐cell receptor (TCR) is transferred into peripheral human CD4+ T cells, the reprogrammed cells exhibit a T helper type 1 (Th1) phenotype with significant multifactorial effector capabilities. The T‐bet transcription factor plays an important role in determination of the Th1 differentiation pathway. To gain a deeper understanding of how T‐bet controls the outcome of human T‐cell reprogramming by gene transfer, we developed a system for examining the effects of short hairpin RNA‐mediated T‐bet gene knockdown in sorted cell populations uniformly expressing the knockdown construct. In this system, using activated peripheral human CD4+ CD25− and CD8+ T cells, T‐bet knockdown led to attenuation of the interferon‐γ response to both antigen‐specific and non‐specific TCR stimulation. The interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) antigen‐specific response was not attenuated by T‐bet knockdown. Also, in TCR‐reprogrammed CD8+ cells, the cytolytic effector response was attenuated by T‐bet knockdown. T‐bet knockdown did not cause redirection into a Th2 differentiation pathway, and no increased IL‐4, IL‐10, or IL‐17 response was detected in this system. These results indicate that T‐bet expression is required for maintenance of the CD4+ CD25− and CD8+ effector phenotypes in TCR‐reprogrammed human T cells. They also suggest that the activation protocol necessary for transduction with retrovectors and lentivectors may commit the reprogrammed cells to the Th1 phenotype, which cannot be altered by T‐bet knockdown but that there is, nevertheless, a continuous requirement of T‐bet expression for interferon‐γ gene activation.
Changing Patterns of the Floating Population in China, 2000–2010
Authors: Liang Zai , Li Zhen , Ma Zhongdong
Published: December 2014

Using data from the 2000 and 2010 Chinese population censuses and applying a consistent definition of migration, we examine changing patterns of China's floating population during 2000–2010. During the first decade of the twenty‐first century, there have been significant changes in China's floating population, as reflected in a continuing growth of interprovincial floating population and the growth of the floating population in China's western and interior regions, geographic diversification of destinations for the floating population, a major increase in interprovincial return migration, and significant improvement in education and occupational profiles among the floating population. We argue that these patterns are driven by domestic and international factors, including the newly released Labor Law, removal of agricultural tax, the western China development program, increased investment in education by the Chinese government, and the global financial crisis. We also discuss several challenges facing the floating population, which include limited educational opportunity for migrant children and inadequate housing and social welfare protection for the floating population.
Effect of professional mechanical plaque removal performed on a long‐term, routine basis in the secondary prevention of periodontitis: a systematic review
Authors: Trombelli Leonardo , Franceschetti Giovanni , Farina Roberto
Published: December 2014

Aims

To systematically review the evidence evaluating the efficacy of long‐term, routine, professional mechanical plaque removal (PMPR) in the prevention of periodontitis progression.

Methods

A literature search was conducted to identify prospective studies evaluating the effect of PMPR in periodontitis patients undergoing active periodontal therapy and enrolled in a maintenance programme including PMPR for at least 3 years.

Results

No RCTs evaluating the efficacy of the intervention when compared with no treatment during maintenance were found. Nineteen prospective studies assessing the effect of PMPR as part of the supportive therapy were included. In general, studies reported no to low incidence of tooth loss during follow‐up. The weighted mean yearly rate of tooth loss was 0.15 ± 0.14 and 0.09 ± 0.08 for follow‐up of 5 years or 12–14 years, respectively, with no significant differences between groups. Mean clinical attachment loss was <1 mm at follow‐up ranging from 5 to 12 years.

Conclusions

Supportive therapy, which encompasses PMPR, may limit the incidence and yearly rate of tooth loss as well as the loss in clinical attachment in patients treated for periodontitis. However, whether and to what extent the intervention may impact on long‐term periodontal parameters still needs to be assessed.
Risk indicators for peri‐implant mucositis: a systematic literature review
Authors: Renvert Stefan , Polyzois Ioannis
Published: December 2014

Objectives

To examine the existing evidence in identifying risk indicators in the aetiology of peri‐implant mucositis.

Material and Methods

A search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science (WOS) and The Cochrane Library databases for articles published until June 2014.

Results

This search gave 3135 results of which 15 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The current review revealed that only a few studies provided data on risk indicators for the development of peri‐implant mucositis. Based on the data available, there is evidence that plaque is a risk indicator for peri‐implant mucositis. Smoking has also been identified as an independent risk indicator whereas the overall evidence for surface roughness, residual cement, the dimension of the keratinized tissue and time of implant in function is weak. There are limited data available to support systemic conditions as risk indicators for peri‐implant mucositis.

Conclusions

Plaque accumulation at implants will result in development of peri‐implant mucositis. Smoking should also be considered as a risk indicator for the development of peri‐implant mucositis.
Efficacy of professionally administered plaque removal with or without adjunctive measures for the treatment of peri‐implant mucositis. A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Schwarz Frank , Becker Kathrin , Sager Martin
Published: December 2014

Focused Question

In patients with peri‐implant mucositis, what is the efficacy of professionally administered plaque removal (PAPR) with adjunctive measures on changing signs of inflammation compared with PARP alone?

Materials and Methods

After electronic database and hand search, 19 full‐text articles were independently screened by two reviewers. Finally, a total of seven studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The weighted mean difference (WMD) in bleeding on probing‐ (BOP) (primary outcome), gingival index‐ (GI) and probing pocket depth‐ (PD) reductions was estimated (random effect model).

Results

WMD in BOP reduction between test and control groups amounted to −8.16% [SD = 4.61; p = 0.07; 95% CI (−17.20, 0.88)] not favouring adjunctive antiseptic or antibiotic (local, systemic) therapy over PAPR alone. WMD in GI and PD reductions amounted to −0.12 [SD = 0.13; p = 0.34; 95% CI (−0.38, 0.13)] and −0.056 mm [SD = 0.10; p = 0.60; 95% CI (−0.27, 0.16)] not favouring adjunctive (antiseptics, systemic antibiotics, air abrasive device) over control measures respectively. Most studies evaluated reported on residual BOP and GI scores after therapy.

Conclusions

Adjunctive therapy may not improve the efficacy of PAPR in reducing BOP, GI and PD scores at mucositis sites. Despite clinically important improvements, a complete disease resolution may not be expected by any of the treatment protocols investigated.
Behaviour change counselling for tobacco use cessation and promotion of healthy lifestyles: a systematic review
Authors: Ramseier Christoph A. , Suvan Jean E.
Published: December 2014

Aim

To systematically assess the efficacy of oral health behaviour change counselling for tobacco use cessation (TUC) and the promotion of healthy lifestyles.

Materials and Methods

Systematic Reviews, Randomized (RCTs), and Controlled Clinical Trials (CCTs) were identified through an electronic search of four databases complemented by manual search. Identification, screening, eligibility and inclusion of studies were performed independently by two reviewers. Quality assessment of the included publications was performed according to the AMSTAR tool for the assessment of the methodological quality of systematic reviews.

Results

A total of seven systematic reviews were included. With the exception of inadequate oral hygiene, the following unhealthy lifestyles related with periodontal diseases were investigated: tobacco use, unhealthy diets, harmful use of alcohol, physical inactivity, and stress. Brief interventions for TUC were shown to be effective when applied in the dental practice setting while evidence for dietary counselling and the promotion of other healthy lifestyles was limited or non‐existent.

Conclusions

While aiming to improve periodontal treatment outcomes and the maintenance of periodontal health current evidence suggests that tobacco use brief interventions conducted in the dental practice setting were effective thus underlining the rational for behavioural support.
Annual Research Review: Rare genotypes and childhood psychopathology – uncovering diverse developmental mechanisms of ADHD risk
Authors: Scerif Gaia , Baker Kate
Published: December 2014

Background

Through the increased availability and sophistication of genetic testing, it is now possible to identify causal diagnoses in a growing proportion of children with neurodevelopmental disorders. In addition to developmental delay and intellectual disability, many genetic disorders are associated with high risks of psychopathology, which curtail the wellbeing of affected individuals and their families. Beyond the identification of significant clinical needs, understanding the diverse pathways from rare genetic mutations to cognitive dysfunction and emotional–behavioural disturbance has theoretical and practical utility.

Methods

We overview (based on a strategic search of the literature) the state‐of‐the‐art on causal mechanisms leading to one of the most common childhood behavioural diagnoses – attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) – in the context of specific genetic disorders. We focus on new insights emerging from the mapping of causal pathways from identified genetic differences to neuronal biology, brain abnormalities, cognitive processing differences and ultimately behavioural symptoms of ADHD.

Findings

First, ADHD research in the context of rare genotypes highlights the complexity of multilevel mechanisms contributing to psychopathology risk. Second, comparisons between genetic disorders associated with similar psychopathology risks can elucidate convergent or distinct mechanisms at each level of analysis, which may inform therapeutic interventions and prognosis. Third, genetic disorders provide an unparalleled opportunity to observe dynamic developmental interactions between neurocognitive risk and behavioural symptoms. Fourth, variation in expression of psychopathology risk within each genetic disorder points to putative moderating and protective factors within the genome and the environment.

Conclusion

A common imperative emerging within psychopathology research is the need to investigate mechanistically how developmental trajectories converge or diverge between and within genotype‐defined groups. Crucially, as genetic predispositions modify interaction dynamics from the outset, longitudinal research is required to understand the multi‐level developmental processes that mediate symptom evolution.
Diversity and disparity through time in the adaptive radiation of Antarctic notothenioid fishes
Authors: Colombo M. , Damerau M. , Hanel R. , Salzburger W. , Matschiner M.
Published: December 2014

According to theory, adaptive radiation is triggered by ecological opportunity that can arise through the colonization of new habitats, the extinction of antagonists or the origin of key innovations. In the course of an adaptive radiation, diversification and morphological evolution are expected to slow down after an initial phase of rapid adaptation to vacant ecological niches, followed by speciation. Such ‘early bursts’ of diversification are thought to occur because niche space becomes increasingly filled over time. The diversification of Antarctic notothenioid fishes into over 120 species has become one of the prime examples of adaptive radiation in the marine realm and has likely been triggered by an evolutionary key innovation in the form of the emergence of antifreeze glycoproteins. Here, we test, using a novel time‐calibrated phylogeny of 49 species and five traits that characterize notothenioid body size and shape as well as buoyancy adaptations and habitat preferences, whether the notothenioid adaptive radiation is compatible with an early burst scenario. Extensive Bayesian model comparison shows that phylogenetic age estimates are highly dependent on model choice and that models with unlinked gene trees are generally better supported and result in younger age estimates. We find strong evidence for elevated diversification rates in Antarctic notothenioids compared to outgroups, yet no sign of rate heterogeneity in the course of the radiation, except that the notothenioid family Artedidraconidae appears to show secondarily elevated diversification rates. We further observe an early burst in trophic morphology, suggesting that the notothenioid radiation proceeds in stages similar to other prominent examples of adaptive radiation.
Efficacy, effectiveness and side effects of medications used to prevent fractures
Authors: Reid I. R.
Published: December 2014

There is an increasing number of effective therapies for fracture prevention in adults at risk of osteoporosis. However, shortcomings in the evidence underpinning our management of osteoporosis still exist. Evidence of antifracture efficacy in the groups of patients who most commonly use calcium and vitamin D supplements is lacking, the safety of calcium supplements is in doubt, and the safety and efficacy of high doses of vitamin D give cause for concern. Alendronate, risedronate, zoledronate and denosumab have been shown to prevent spine, nonspine and hip fractures; in addition, teriparatide and strontium ranelate prevent both spine and nonspine fractures, and raloxifene and ibandronate prevent spine fractures. However, most trials provide little information regarding long‐term efficacy or safety. A particular concern at present is the possibility that oral bisphosphonates might cause atypical femoral fractures. Observational data suggest that the incidence of this type of fracture increases steeply with duration of bisphosphonate use, resulting in concern that the benefit–risk balance may become negative in the long term, particularly in patients in whom the osteoporotic fracture risk is not high. Therefore, reappraisal of ongoing use of bisphosphonates after about 5 years is endorsed by expert consensus, and ‘drug holidays’ should be considered at this time. Further studies are needed to guide clinical practice in this area.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Men with Prostate Cancer: A Time-Varying Analysis
Authors: Kaplan Alan L. , Lenis Andrew T. , Shah Adit , Rajfer Jacob , Hu Jim C.
Published: December 2014

Introduction

The use of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in men with prostate cancer is controversial given concerns of androgen-related cancer progression. Although emerging evidence suggests that TRT may be safe in this setting, no study has investigated dose-related effects.

Aim

We used time-varying analysis to determine whether increasing TRT exposure is associated with worse outcomes.

Methods

Using linked Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results-Medicare data, we identified 149,354 men diagnosed with prostate cancer from 1991 to 2007. Subjects treated with TRT were stratified by duration of treatment. Weighted propensity score methods were used to adjust for differences between groups. A Cox proportional hazards model was constructed to assess the effect of injectable TRT exposure on outcomes.

Main Outcome Measure

Overall mortality (OM), prostate cancer–specific mortality (PCSM), and use of salvage androgen deprivation therapy (ADT).

Results

Men treated with TRT, regardless of duration, did not experience higher OM or PCSM (all hazard ratio [HR] < 1.0, all P ≤ 0.002). We found no difference in use of salvage ADT in the ≤30-day and 31–60 day groups compared with no-TRT (HR 1.23 and 1.05, P = 0.06 and 0.81, respectively), whereas it was lower for men on long-term TRT (HR 0.70, P = 0.04).

Conclusions

TRT following prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment does not increase mortality or the use of salvage ADT. Using time-varying analysis, we demonstrate that longer duration of TRT is not associated with adverse mortality or greater need for ADT.
Hepatic involvement in congenital cytomegalovirus infection – infrequent yet significant
Authors: Bilavsky E. , Schwarz M. , Bar‐Sever Z. , Pardo J. , Amir J.
Published: December 2014

Congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) infection can reside in many organ systems; however, the virus has a particular predilection towards inhabiting the reticuloendothelial system, especially the liver. Specific studies focusing only on hepatic involvement in infants with cCMV are lacking. We report our experience with a large cohort of infants treated in our hospital clinic due to cCMV and hepatic involvement. Hepatic involvement was defined either as hepatitis (elevated alanine transaminases (ALT) >80 units/L without cholestatic disease) or cholestatic disease (elevated ALT >80 units/L combined with direct bilirubin >2 mg/dL). During the study period, 198 infants were diagnosed with symptomatic cCMV in our clinic. Hepatic involvement was observed in 13 infants (6.6%); 7 (3.5%) with hepatitis and 6 (3%) with cholestatic disease. Maternal primary infection with cytomegalovirus during pregnancy was diagnosed in 7 (53.8%) of the 13 infants, nonprimary in 3 (23.1%) and unknown in 3 (23.1%). Among these 13 infants, central nervous system (CNS) involvement was observed in 11 (84.6%) and hearing impairment in 7 (53.8%). Treatment with an antiviral agent was initiated in all cases. Gradual improvement of hepatic enzymes and cholestasis was observed over a prolonged period. We found that the incidence of hepatic involvement in infants with cCMV is much less frequent than previously reported. The hepatic involvement in these infants may manifest in two different ways, and thus, a high index of suspicion and a stepwise approach will help in correctly diagnosing these infants. Antiviral treatment due to CNS involvement is warranted and prognosis is excellent.
A role for the FtsQLB complex in cytokinetic ring activation revealed by an ftsL allele that accelerates division
Authors: Tsang Mary‐Jane , Bernhardt Thomas G.
Published: December 2014

The cytokinetic apparatus of bacteria is initially formed by the polymerization of the tubulin‐like FtsZ protein into a ring structure at midcell. This so‐called Z‐ring facilitates the recruitment of many additional proteins to the division site to form the mature divisome machine. Although the assembly pathway leading to divisome formation has been well characterized, the mechanisms that trigger cell constriction remain unclear. In this report, we study a ‘forgotten’ allele of ftsL from Escherichia coli, which encodes a conserved division gene of unknown function. We discovered that this allele promotes the premature initiation of cell division. Further analysis also revealed that the mutant bypasses the requirement for the essential division proteins ZipA, FtsK and FtsN, and partially bypasses the need for FtsA. These findings suggest that rather than serving simply as a protein scaffold within the divisome, FtsL may play a more active role in the activation of the machine. Our results support a model in which FtsL, along with its partners FtsB and FtsQ, function as part of a sensing mechanism that promotes the onset of cell wall remodeling processes needed for the initiation of cell constriction once assembly of the divisome complex is deemed complete.