bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oviposition and development potential of the spotted‐wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii (Diptera: Drosophilidae), on uninjured Campbell Early grape
Authors: Kim Min Jee , Kim Jong Seok , Park Jeong Sun , Choi Deuk‐Soo , Park Jinyoung , Kim Iksoo
Published: November 2015

The spotted‐wing drosophila (SWD), Drosophila suzukii (Diptera: Drosophilidae), originally distributed across a few Asian countries including South Korea, has invaded North America and Europe but is absent from Australia. In order to export the South Korean grape cultivar Campbell Early to Australia, its potential to serve as an oviposition and development medium for SWD must first be determined. In this study, we determined the oviposition and development potential of SWD on Campbell Early, after elucidating the SWD life cycle and establishing an artificial diet‐based mass‐culturing system. An investigation of the life cycle under five temperature regimes (16, 19, 22, 25 and 28°C) showed that the durations of the egg, larval and adult stages were shortened when temperature was increased from 16, 19, 22, 25 and 28°C, but pupal duration was shortest at 25°C and extended again at 28°C. A test of oviposition and development potential of SWD on Campbell Early grape clusters showed oviposition of 30.8 ± 6.8 eggs per cluster of injured grapes and 157.7 ± 16.2 eggs on a culture dish of artificial diet. However, in a similar experiment using uninjured grape clusters, only a single egg was deposited on the grape skin, which soon dried. In light of these results, newly harvested grapes left at vineyards during daily harvests are unlikely to serve as an oviposition and development medium for SWD, as long as the grapes remain uninjured.
Evaluating modularity in morphometric data: challenges with the RV coefficient and a new test measure
Authors: Adams Dean C.
Published: November 2015

Modularity describes the case where patterns of trait covariation are unevenly dispersed across traits. Specifically, trait correlations are high and concentrated within subsets of variables (modules), but the correlations between traits across modules are relatively weaker. For morphometric data sets, hypotheses of modularity are commonly evaluated using the RV coefficient, an association statistic used in a wide variety of fields.

In this article, I explore the properties of the RV coefficient using simulated data sets. Using data drawn from a normal distribution where the data were neither modular nor integrated in structure, I show that the RV coefficient is adversely affected by attributes of the data (sample size and the number of variables) that do not characterize the covariance structure between sets of variables. Thus, with the RV coefficient, patterns of modularity or integration in data are confounded with trends generated by sample size and the number of variables, which limits biological interpretations and renders comparisons of RV coefficients across data sets uninformative.

As an alternative, I propose the covariance ratio (CR) for quantifying modular structure and show that it is unaffected by sample size or the number of variables. Further, statistical tests based on the CR exhibit appropriate type I error rates and display higher statistical power relative to the RV coefficient when evaluating modular data.

Overall, these findings demonstrate that the RV coefficient does not display statistical characteristics suitable for reliable assessment of hypotheses of modular or integrated structure and therefore should not be used to evaluate these patterns in morphological data sets. By contrast, the covariance ratio meets these criteria and provides a useful alternative method for assessing the degree of modular structure in morphological data.
Meta‐analysis of genome‐wide association from genomic prediction models
Authors: Bernal Rubio Y. L. , Gualdrón Duarte J. L. , Bates R. O. , Ernst C. W. , Nonneman D. , Rohrer G. A. , King A. , Shackelford S. D. , Wheeler T. L. , Cantet R. J. C. , Steibel J. P.
Published: November 2015

Genome‐wide association (GWA) studies based on GBLUP models are a common practice in animal breeding. However, effect sizes of GWA tests are small, requiring larger sample sizes to enhance power of detection of rare variants. Because of difficulties in increasing sample size in animal populations, one alternative is to implement a meta‐analysis (MA), combining information and results from independent GWA studies. Although this methodology has been used widely in human genetics, implementation in animal breeding has been limited. Thus, we present methods to implement a MA of GWA, describing the proper approach to compute weights derived from multiple genomic evaluations based on animal‐centric GBLUP models. Application to real datasets shows that MA increases power of detection of associations in comparison with population‐level GWA, allowing for population structure and heterogeneity of variance components across populations to be accounted for. Another advantage of MA is that it does not require access to genotype data that is required for a joint analysis. Scripts related to the implementation of this approach, which consider the strength of association as well as the sign, are distributed and thus account for heterogeneity in association phase between QTL and SNPs. Thus, MA of GWA is an attractive alternative to summarizing results from multiple genomic studies, avoiding restrictions with genotype data sharing, definition of fixed effects and different scales of measurement of evaluated traits.
ST waveform analysis versus cardiotocography alone for intrapartum fetal monitoring: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized trials
Authors: Blix Ellen , Brurberg Kjetil G. , Reierth Eirik , Reinar Liv M. , Øian Pål
Published: November 2015

Introduction

ST waveform analysis was introduced to reduce metabolic acidosis at birth and avoid unnecessary operative deliveries relative to conventional cardiotocography. Our objective was to quantify the efficacy of ST waveform analysis vs. cardiotocography and assess the quality of the evidence using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation tool.

Material and methods

We identified randomized controlled trials through systematic literature searches and assessed included studies for risk of bias. Meta‐analyses were performed, calculating pooled risk ratio or peto odds ratio. We performed post hoc trial sequential analyses for selected outcomes to assess the risk of false‐positive results and the need for additional studies.

Results

Six randomized controlled trials were included in the meta‐analysis. ST waveform analysis was not associated with a reduction in operative deliveries due to fetal distress, but we observed a significantly lower rate of metabolic acidosis (peto odds ratio 0.64; 95% confidence interval 0.46–0.88). Accordingly, 401 women need to be monitored with ST waveform analysis to prevent one case of metabolic acidosis. No statistically significant effects were observed in other fetal or neonatal outcomes, except from fetal blood sampling (risk ratio 0.59; 95% confidence interval 0.45–0.79) and a minor reduction in the number of operative vaginal deliveries for all indications (risk ratio 0.92; 95% confidence interval 0.86–0.99). The quality of the evidence was high to moderate.

Conclusions

Absolute effects of ST waveform analysis were minor, and the clinical significance of the observed reduction in metabolic acidosis is questioned. There is not enough evidence to justify the use of ST waveform analysis in contemporary obstetrics.
Improved Outcome of Cardiac Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Infants and Children Using Magnetic Levitation Centrifugal Pumps
Authors: Luciani Giovanni Battista , Hoxha Stiljan , Torre Salvatore , Rungatscher Alessio , Menon Tiziano , Barozzi Luca , Faggian Giuseppe
Published: November 2015

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has traditionally been and, for the most part, still is being performed using roller pumps. Use of first‐generation centrifugal pumps has yielded controversial outcomes, perhaps due to mechanical properties of the same and the ensuing risk of hemolysis and renal morbidity. Latest‐generation centrifugal pumps, using magnetic levitation (ML), exhibit mechanical properties which may have overcome limitations of first‐generation devices. This retrospective study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of veno‐arterial (V‐A) ECMO for cardiac indications in neonates, infants, and children, using standard (SP) and latest‐generation ML centrifugal pumps. Between 2002 and 2014, 33 consecutive neonates, infants, and young children were supported using V‐A ECMO for cardiac indications. There were 21 males and 12 females, with median age of 29 days (4 days–5 years) and a median body weight of 3.2 kg (1.9–18 kg). Indication for V‐A ECMO were acute circulatory collapse in ICU or ward after cardiac repair in 16 (49%) patients, failure to wean after repair of complex congenital heart disease in 9 (27%), fulminant myocarditis in 4 (12%), preoperative sepsis in 2 (6%), and refractory tachy‐arrhythmias in 2 (6%). Central cannulation was used in 27 (81%) patients and peripheral in 6. Seven (21%) patients were supported with SP and 26 (79%) with ML centrifugal pumps. Median duration of support was 82 h (range 24–672 h), with 26 (79%) patients weaned from support. Three patients required a second ECMO run but died on support. Seventeen (51%) patients required peritoneal dialysis for acute renal failure. Overall survival to discharge was 39% (13/33 patients). All patients with fulminant myocarditis and with refractory arrhythmias were weaned, and five (83%) survived, whereas no patient supported for sepsis survived. Risk factors for hospital mortality included lower (<2.5 kg) body weight (P = 0.02) and rescue ECMO after cardiac repair (P = 0.03). During a median follow‐up of 34 months (range 4–62 months), there were three (23%) late deaths and two late survivors with neurological sequelae. Weaning rate (5/7 vs. 21/26, P = NS) and prevalence of renal failure requiring dialysis (4/7 vs. 13/26, P = NS) were comparable between SP and ML ECMO groups. Patients supported with ML had a trend toward higher hospital survival (1/7 vs. 12/26, P = 0.07) and significantly higher late survival (0/7 vs. 10/26, P = 0.05). The present experience shows that V‐A ECMO for cardiac indications using centrifugal pumps in infants and children yields outcomes absolutely comparable to international registry (ELSO) data using mostly roller pumps. Although changes in practice may have contributed to these results, use of ML centrifugal pumps appears to further improve end‐organ recovery and hospital and late survival.
Nasal irrigation with saline solution significantly improves oxygen saturation in infants with bronchiolitis
Authors: Schreiber Silvana , Ronfani Luca , Ghirardo Sergio , Minen Federico , Taddio Andrea , Jaber Mohamad , Rizzello Elisa , Barbi Egidio
Published: November 2015

Aim

Published guidelines do not recommend nasal irrigation in bronchiolitis, but it is common practice in Italy, despite a lack of data on its benefits or adverse effects. This single‐blind, multicentre, randomised controlled trial compared nasal irrigation using either isotonic 0.9% sodium chloride or hypertonic 3% sodium chloride with simple supportive care in infants with bronchiolitis.

Methods

We randomly assigned 133 infants up one year of age, who were admitted to the emergency department with bronchiolitis and an oxygen saturation (SpO2) of between 88 and 94%, to the isotonic (n = 47), hypertonic (n = 44) or standard care (n = 42) groups. Variations in SpO2 and the wheeze, air exchange, respiratory rate, muscle use (WARM) respiratory distress score were recorded at zero, five, 15, 20 and 50 minutes.

Results

Five minutes after the intervention, the median SpO2 value (95%) in the isotonic group was higher than both the hypertonic (94%) and the standard care (93%) groups. The differences between the isotonic and standard treatment groups were statistically significant at each time point, while the hypertonic group only reached significantly higher values after 50 minutes. However, the WARM score did not improve.

Conclusion

A single nasal irrigation with saline solution significantly improved oxygen saturation in infants with bronchiolitis.
Determining peripheral skin temperature: subjective versus objective measurements
Authors: Tse Jennifer , Rand Casey , Carroll Michael , Charnay Aaron , Gordon Samantha , Morales Briseyda , Vitez Sally , Le Michele , Weese‐Mayer Debra
Published: November 2015

Aim

Diseases that affect peripheral vasculature or neurological function can manifest with peripheral skin temperature abnormalities. This pilot study investigates the accuracy of current physical examination techniques and determines whether a hand‐held infrared device can be used to estimate peripheral skin temperature and detect temperature disparities.

Methods

Comparison between traditional physical examination of hands/feet by 30 healthcare professionals and a hand‐held infrared device was made in 12 individuals (ages 4–25 years; 5 with disorders affecting peripheral skin temperature). Thermal camera measurements served as the reference temperature for comparison.

Results

A total of 231 extremity examinations by healthcare professionals were analysed. Healthcare professionals correctly identified subjects with colder or warmer than normal peripheral temperature. Hand‐held device measurements were significantly different than reference measurements, with the size of the temperature difference diverging significantly between hands (1.20°C) and feet (0.78°C). When analysing temperature disparities, healthcare professionals identified fewer clinically significant disparities (≥3.0°C) than the hand‐held device (76% vs. 99%).

Conclusion

Although different from reference temperatures, the hand‐held infrared device provided a more accurate and objective method than traditional physical exam in identifying peripheral skin temperature asymmetries that may be related to chronic paediatric illness.
Protein tyrosine phosphatases receptor type D is a potential tumour suppressor gene inactivated by deoxyribonucleic acid methylation in paediatric acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Song Lei , Jiang Wen , Liu Wei , Ji Ju‐Hua , Shi Tai‐Feng , Zhang Jie , Xia Chun‐Qiu
Published: November 2015

Aim

Protein tyrosine phosphatases receptor type D (PTPRD) is a tumour suppressor gene, and its epigenetic silencing is frequently found in glioblastoma. As aberrant deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) methylation patterning has been shown to play a role in leukaemogenesis, we studied the promoter methylation, expression profiles and molecular functions of PTPRD in paediatric patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML).

Methods

Bone marrow specimens were obtained from 32 Chinese patients with a mean age of 7.2 years (range 1.1–16.5). PTPRD and methylation status were evaluated by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and methylation‐specific PCR. Western blot and flow cytometry techniques were also used.

Results

PTPRD expression was decreased by promoter region methylation in six AML cells and methylated in 21 (65.6%) of the 32 samples. In addition, PTPRD expression could be induced by the DNA demethylating agent 5‐aza‐2′‐deoxycytidine. Furthermore, functional studies showed that overexpression of PTPRD in AML cells inhibited cell proliferation and clonogenicity as well as inducing apoptosis. However, PTPRD knockdown increased cell proliferation. These effects were associated with downregulation of cyclin D1, c‐myc and upregulation of Bax.

Conclusion

The results of this study demonstrated that PTPRD was a potential tumour suppressor gene inactivated by DNA methylation in paediatric AML.
Effects of different forages on the chemical compositions and antiosteoporotic activities of velvet antlers
Authors: Tseng Sung‐Hui , Chen Lih‐Geeng , Lai Ying‐Jang , Wang Kun‐Teng , Wang Ching‐Chiung
Published: November 2015

For this study, we aimed to assess the dose–response antiosteoporotic effects of the middle section of velvet antlers (VAs) from sika deers (Cervus nippon) fed with different types of fodders. VAs prepared from farmed sika deers fed with feed mixtures containing sorghum distillery residue (VA‐SDR) or without SDR (SDR replaced with hay, VA‐Hay) were divided into upper (VAU), middle (VAM) and basal (VAB) sections. The chemical constituents of the middle sections obtained from each VA type were compared, and their antiosteoporotic activities were evaluated using rats with ovaries removed surgically (ovariectomy, OVX). The VA‐Hay exhibited markedly increased iron and cysteine levels, whereas the VA‐SDR exhibited markedly increased level of alcoholic extract and testosterone. Both VA‐Hay‐ and VA‐SDR‐treated rats exhibited increased femur strength compared with the control group. However, VA‐SDR exhibited greater bone‐strengthening effects than did VA‐Hay. The serum osteocalcin and estradiol levels were significantly moderated in the VA‐Hay group alone. These results suggest that VA‐SDR and VA‐Hay prevent the loss of bone strength, and preserve trabecular architecture connectivity in an estrogen‐deficient state. However, differences in the chemical compositions of different forages may be responsible for the varying antiosteoporotic mechanisms observed. Thus, the addition of SDR in deer forage may enhance antiosteoporosis activity in VAs, and confer considerable economic and ecological benefits.
Correlated responses of respiratory disease and immune capacity traits of Landrace pigs selected for Mycoplasmal pneumonia of swine (MPS) lesion
Authors: Okamura Toshihiro , Maeda Kouki , Onodera Wataru , Kadowaki Hiroshi , Kojima‐Shibata Chihiro , Suzuki Eisaku , Uenishi Hirohide , Satoh Masahiro , Suzuki Keiichi
Published: November 2015

Five generations of Landrace pigs selected for average daily gain, backfat thickness, Mycoplasmal pneumonia of swine (MPS) lesion score, and plasma cortisol levels, was executed to decrease the MPS lesion score. Genetic parameters and correlated genetic responses for respiratory disease and peripheral blood immune traits were estimated in 1395 Landrace pigs. We estimated the negative genetic correlation of MPS lesion score with phagocytic activity (PA) at 7 weeks of age (‐0.67). The breeding values of PA at 7 weeks of age and 105 kg body weight and the correlated selection response of the ratio of granular leukocytes to lymphocytes at 105 kg body weight were significantly increased, and sheep red blood cell‐specific antibody production (AP) was significantly decreased in a selection‐dependent manner. Increasing of natural immunological indicators (e.g. PA) and decreasing of humoral immunological indicator (e.g. AP) were observed due to genetically decreasing MPS lesion score.
Classic articles in Psychology in the Science Citation Index Expanded: A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Ho Yuh‐Shan , Hartley James
Published: November 2015

Who today are the most highly cited psychologists listed in the Web of Science? This paper reports answers to this question by using the Science Citation Index Expanded to find out. This index covers over 280,350 documents in the Psychology category of the Web of Science from 1900 to 2013 and lists the most highly cited papers published between 1927 and 2012. For example, in 2013, an article published by Jacob Cohen in 1992 obtained (1) the highest ranking with 1,068 citations, (2) the highest for total citations per year, and (3) was ranked 3rd for the total number of citations since publication by 2013. New technology thus provides a seismic shift in the ways that we can obtain and analyse data like these. Indeed, the results for the top 10 articles indicate that practical and methodological papers now receive more citations than the more theoretical papers usually found in earlier surveys.
Factors controlling stratal pattern and facies distribution of fluvio‐lacustrine sedimentation in the Sivas mini‐basins, Oligocene (Turkey)
Authors: Ribes Charlotte , Kergaravat Charlie , Crumeyrolle Philippe , Lopez Michel , Bonnel Cédric , Poisson André , Kavak Kaan S. , Callot Jean‐Paul , Ringenbach Jean‐Claude
Published: November 2015

The Sivas Basin, located in the Central Anatolian Plateau of Turkey, is a foreland basin that records a complex interaction between sedimentation, salt tectonics and regional shortening during the Oligo‐Miocene leading to the formation of numerous mini‐basins. The Oligocene sedimentary infill of the mini‐basins consists of a thick continental succession, the Karayün Formation, comprising a vertical succession of three main sub‐environments: (i) playa‐lake, (ii) fluvial braided, and (iii) saline lacustrine. These sub‐environments are seen as forming a large Distributive Fluvial System (DFS) modified through time as a function of sediment supply and accommodation related to regional changes in climate and tectonic regime. Within neighbouring mini‐basins and despite a similar vertical stratigraphic succession, subtle variations in facies assemblages and thickness are observed in stratigraphic units of equivalent age, thus demonstrating the local control exerted by halokinesis. Stratigraphic and stratal patterns reveal in great detail the complex interaction between salt tectonics and sedimentation including different types of halokinetic structures such as hooks, wedges and halokinetic folds. The regional variations of accommodation/sediment supply led to coeval changes in the architectural patterns recorded in the mini‐basins. The type of accommodation regime produces several changes in the sedimentary record: (i) a regime dominated by regional accommodation limits the impact of halokinesis, which is recorded as very small variations in stratigraphic thickness and facies distribution within and between mini‐basins; (ii) a regime dominated by localized salt‐induced accommodation linked to the subsidence of each individual mini‐basin enhances the facies heterogeneity within the DFS, causing sharp changes in stratigraphic thickness and facies assemblages within and between mini‐basins.
The interleukin‐33 receptor ST2 is important for the development of peripheral airway hyperresponsiveness and inflammation in a house dust mite mouse model of asthma
Authors: Zoltowska A. M. , Lei Y. , Fuchs B. , Rask C. , Adner M. , Nilsson G. P.
Published: November 2015

Background

Several clinical and experimental studies have implicated IL‐33 and its receptor ST2 in the development of asthma. However, the effect of IL‐33/ST2 signalling on airway responses and inflammation in allergic asthma is not well established.

Objective

To investigate the role of IL‐33/ST2 signalling in promoting allergen‐induced airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), airway inflammation, antigen‐specific IgE production and mast cell activity in a mouse model of asthma.

Methods

ST2‐deficient (ST2−/−) mice and control BALB/c mice were given house dust mite (HDM) extract over a 6‐week period. Forty‐eight hours after the final HDM administration, lung function and airway inflammation were evaluated. Airway responsiveness was determined in the central airways and peripheral lung. Cellular infiltration and mast cell protease mMCP‐1 levels were quantified in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Recruitment of inflammatory cells and inflammatory cytokine profiles were assessed in pulmonary tissue, and HDM‐specific IgE was measured in serum.

Results

ST2 deficiency diminished HDM‐induced AHR in the peripheral lung, while AHR in the central airways was unaffected. Inflammatory responses to HDM were also reduced in ST2−/− mice as reflected by the lower induction of HDM‐specific serum IgE, inhibition of HDM‐induced eosinophilia and reduced macrophage count in BALF, and a diminished influx of inflammatory cells and reduced goblet cell hyperplasia around the peripheral airways. Furthermore, the levels of the inflammatory cytokines IL‐1β, IL‐5, IL‐13, IL‐33, GM‐CSF, thymic stromal lymphopoietin and mast cell protease mMCP‐1 were reduced in HDM‐treated ST2−/− mice compared with wild‐type controls.

Conclusions

In addition to promoting Th2 inflammation, we now suggest a role for the IL‐33/ST2 pathway for the induction of peripheral inflammation and mucus production that causes AHR in the peripheral lung. This mechanism for inducing AHR at distal parts of the lung may be of specific importance as asthma is considered as a small airway disease.
T cell epitope immunotherapy ameliorates allergic responses in a murine model of shrimp allergy
Authors: Wai C. Y. Y. , Leung N. Y. H. , Leung P. S. C. , Chu K. H.
Published: November 2015

Background

Shellfish allergy is one of the most common food hypersensitivities worldwide but allergen‐specific immunotherapy for shellfish allergy is not yet available. We believe that T cell peptide‐based immunotherapy holds the potential for modulating allergic responses without IgE cross‐linking.

Objective

We sought to identify the immunodominant T cell epitopes of tropomyosin, the major shrimp allergen of Metapenaeus ensis (Met e 1), and to evaluate their therapeutic effects in a Balb/c mouse model of Met e 1 hypersensitivity.

Methods

T cell epitopes of Met e 1 were first identified based on the proliferation and cytokine responses of splenocytes isolated from Met e 1‐sensitized Balb/c mice upon stimulation by 18 synthetic peptides that span the full‐length Met e 1. The immunodominant T cell peptides identified were then fed orally to Met e 1‐sensitized Balb/c mice twice a week for four weeks. Allergic responses, serological antibody levels, intestinal histology and systemic and local cytokine profiles were compared between the treated and the untreated groups.

Results

Six major Met e 1 T cell epitopes were identified. Mice treated with the T cell epitope peptide mixture demonstrated an amelioration of systemic allergic symptoms and a significant reduction in Th2‐associated antibody and cytokine responses. These benefits were accompanied by a shift to a balanced Th1/Th2 response, induction of IgG2a antibodies possessing in vitro and in vivo blocking activities and the induction of regulatory T cell responses.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

T cell epitope‐based oral immunotherapy is effective in reducing allergic responses towards shrimp tropomyosin. This is a novel strategy for clinical management of shellfish allergy and is a model for mechanistic studies of oral immunotherapy.
Is Passive Syntax Semantically Constrained? Evidence From Adult Grammaticality Judgment and Comprehension Studies
Authors: Ambridge Ben , Bidgood Amy , Pine Julian M. , Rowland Caroline F. , Freudenthal Daniel
Published: November 2015

To explain the phenomenon that certain English verbs resist passivization (e.g., *£5 was cost by the book), Pinker (1989) proposed a semantic constraint on the passive in the adult grammar: The greater the extent to which a verb denotes an action where a patient is affected or acted upon, the greater the extent to which it is compatible with the passive. However, a number of comprehension and production priming studies have cast doubt upon this claim, finding no difference between highly affecting agent‐patient/theme‐experiencer passives (e.g., Wendy was kicked/frightened by Bob) and non‐actional experiencer theme passives (e.g., Wendy was heard by Bob). The present study provides evidence that a semantic constraint is psychologically real, and is readily observed when more fine‐grained independent and dependent measures are used (i.e., participant ratings of verb semantics, graded grammaticality judgments, and reaction time in a forced‐choice picture‐matching comprehension task). We conclude that a semantic constraint on the passive must be incorporated into accounts of the adult grammar.
Ventricular Twisting and Dyssynchrony in Children with Single Left Ventricle Using Three‐Dimensional Speckle Tracking Imaging after the Fontan Operation
Authors: Zhong Shu‐Wen , Zhang Yu‐Qi , Chen Li‐Jun , Wang Shan‐Shan , Li Wei‐Hua , Sun Yan‐Jun
Published: November 2015

Background

The importance of left ventricular (LV) twisting has been recognized in various types of heart disease, but no studies have investigated twisting of functional single ventricle using echocardiography. This study aimed to evaluate LV twisting and dyssynchrony of children with single left ventricle (SLV) after the Fontan operation and explore the relationship between twisting motion and ventricular contractility using three‐dimensional speckle tracking imaging (3DSTI).

Methods

Thirty‐five children with SLV and 35 healthy children (controls) were enrolled. The patients were divided into wide and narrow QRS groups according to the QRS interval. Atrioventricular valve inflow velocity and tissue Doppler imaging velocity were obtained, and the Tei index was calculated. Apical rotation, basal rotation, twist, torsion, time to peak apical rotation, time to peak basal rotation, time to peak twist, apical–basal rotation delay, and the systolic dyssynchrony index (SDI) were measured by 3DSTI.

Results

Patients with SLV had significantly lower apical rotation (2.50 ± 2.25° vs. 4.85 ± 2.68°, P < 0.001), basal rotation (−3.46 ± 3.11° vs. −7.76 ± 2.11°, P < 0.001), twist (5.15 ± 4.75° vs. 12.19 ± 3.65°, P < 0.001), and torsion (1.04 ± 0.99°/cm vs. 2.37 ± 0.77°/cm, P < 0.001) compared to controls. Time to peak basal rotation, apical–basal rotation delay, and time to peak twist were significantly longer in patients. Apical rotation was significantly lower in the wide QRS group but similar in the narrow QRS group as compared to controls. Time to peak twist and apical–basal delay were significantly longer in the wide QRS group in contrast to the similar time in the narrow QRS group compared with controls. Among these twisting parameters, twist and torsion were most significantly correlated with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), the Tei index, and SDI. Twist and age were significantly correlated.

Conclusion

Twisting is reduced in children with SLV after the Fontan operation. Torsion is a good indicator of LV global function because of good reproducibility and its lack of association with age.
Early Detection of Subclinical Uremic Cardiomyopathy Using Two‐Dimensional Speckle Tracking Echocardiography
Authors: Hassanin Noha , Alkemary Alkhateeb
Published: November 2015

Background

Overhydration has a deleterious effect on cardio myocytes. This study was designated to evaluate left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic dysfunction in patients with various stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD) using conventional, tissue Doppler and two‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2DSTE).

Methods

Forty controls and 90CKDpatients, aged 49.3 ± 14 years old, were enrolled in the study. Patients were divided into 3 groups depending on their glomerular filtration rate. Group 1 (≥60 mL/min per 1.73 m2), group 2 (≤60 mL/min per 1.73 m2), and group 3 (≤60 mL/min per 1.73 m2and on regular dialysis for at least 12 months). Pulsed‐Doppler and tissue Doppler studies were used to estimateLVfilling pressure E/E′. Using 2DSTE, circumferential, radial, and longitudinal functions of theLVhave been measured.

Results

LV longitudinal systolic strain, early, and late diastolic strain rates were significantly reduced inCKDpatients (−16.9 ± 3.8%, 1.6 ± 0.5%, and 1.3 ± 0.4% inCKDvs. −22.5 ± 0.6%, 2.3 ± 0.2%, and 1.9 ± 0.1% in controls, P < 0.001 for all), and no difference was observed in terms of the circumferentialLVfunctions (−22.4 ± 1.7 vs. −22.5 ± 1.4, P = 0.567). Severity of the kidney dysfunction appears to parallel with the rise of E/E′ significantly (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

InCKD, although the longitudinal and radial systolic functions were reduced, LV ejection fraction may remain within normal limits due to the preservation of the circumferential functions. Early detection of uremic cardiomyopathy might provide useful information for the risk stratification and decide the proper dialysis therapy in these patients.
Quantifying non‐breeding season occupancy patterns and the timing and drivers of autumn migration for a migratory songbird using Doppler radar
Authors: Laughlin Andrew J. , Sheldon Daniel R. , Winkler David W. , Taylor Caz M.
Published: November 2015

For seasonal migrants, non‐breeding regions can play different roles in the ecology of their annual cycles: as stopover habitat, overwintering habitat, or as a combination in which some individuals stop‐over and others over‐winter. Such functional variations can lead to variation in occupancy dynamics and migration phenology to these different regions. In this study, we used data from archived Doppler weather surveillance radar to compare site‐occupancy and movement dynamics of a migratory songbird (tree swallowTachycineta bicolor) between two non‐breeding areas: southeastern Louisiana and central peninsular Florida, USA. Specifically, in each area, we 1) quantified long‐term (1996–2012) non‐breeding season occupancy dynamics, 2) quantified variation in timing of autumn migration, and 3) tested which climate variables along their respective flyways were best correlated with variation in dates of arrival. Additionally, we cross‐validated the dynamics from archived radar with data from eBird, a large‐scale citizen science database that provides an independent measure of avian occupancy. We found strong and significant correlations between radar‐estimated and eBird‐estimated occupancy dynamics in both Louisiana and Florida. Long‐term Louisiana occupancy dynamics conformed to our hypothesis that this region acts as a combined stopover and overwintering region whereas Florida occupancy dynamics were akin to a traditional winter region. Arrival to Louisiana during the study period was much earlier and took place over a much shorter arrival window than did arrival to Florida, which showed much more gradual arrival over the course of several months. At both sites, annual variation in mean arrival date was best explained by the amount of precipitation along the lower portions of their respective migration flyways.
Twice‐daily therapeutical plasma exchange‐based salvage therapy in severe autoimmune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: the French TMA Reference Center experience
Authors: Soucemarianadin Myriam , Benhamou Ygal , Delmas Yahsou , Pichereau Claire , Maury Eric , Pène Frédéric , Halimi Jean‐Michel , Presne Claire , Thouret Jean‐Marc , Veyradier Agnès , Coppo Paul
Published: November 2015

Background

Daily therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) and rituximab improved thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) prognosis. In the more severe cases, salvage therapies including twice‐daily TPE and/or cyclophosphamide may be proposed and require evaluation.

Methods

TTP was defined as a thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) with severe (<10%) acquired ADAMTS13 deficiency. Among patients included in the French Reference Center for TMA registry, we considered those with a severe disease (i.e., unresponsive to daily TPE and rituximab) who received twice‐daily TPE.

Results

Nineteen of 289 (6.6%) patients with TTP were treated by twice‐daily TPE between 2008 and 2014. Twice‐daily TPE was associated with rituximab in 16 cases. The median duration of twice‐daily TPE treatment was 3 d (2–22 d). In 6 patients (31.6%), additional treatments (mainly pulses of cyclophosphamide) were performed because of a persistently refractory disease (4 cases) or an exacerbation (2 cases), despite twice‐daily TPE. Only one patient (5.3%) died. The other 18 achieved a durable complete remission 25.5 d (13–68 d) after the first TPE. The median follow‐up was 14.4 months (7 d–45 months).

Conclusions

Twice‐daily TPE may be an efficient strategy in the more severe TTP patients with a short‐term life‐threatening disease that could overcome their poor prognosis.
Stochastic density effects on adult fish survival and implications for population fluctuations
Authors: Okamoto Daniel K. , Schmitt Russell J. , Holbrook Sally J.
Published: November 2015

The degree to which population fluctuations arise from variable adult survival relative to variable recruitment has been debated widely for marine organisms. Disentangling these effects remains challenging because data generally are not sufficient to evaluate if and how adult survival rates are regulated by stochasticity and/or population density. Using unique time series for a largely unexploited reef fish, we found both population density and stochastic food supply impacted adult survival. The estimated effect of variable survival on adult abundance (both mean and variability) rivalled that of variable recruitment. Moreover, we show density‐dependent adult survival can dampen impacts of stochastic recruitment. Thus, food variability may alter population fluctuations by simultaneously regulating recruitment and compensatory adult survival. These results provide an additional mechanism for why intensified density‐independent mortality (via harvest or other means) amplifies population fluctuations and emphasises need for research evaluating the causes and consequences of variability in adult survival.
Biomechanics of fractures in endodontically treated teeth
Authors: Kishen Anil
Published: November 2015

A tooth serves as a mechanical device for masticating food. An intact natural tooth experiences flexing or bending during the chewing process. Dentin is the major mineralized tissue in a tooth and offers an optimized mechanical integrity for the tooth. The dentin structure and composition is the key to distributing functional stresses/strains from the tooth to the surrounding bone. Fractures of endodontically treated teeth are not an uncommon occurrence in clinical practice. Many iatrogenic and non‐iatrogenic factors have been cited to be responsible for the compromised resistance to fracture in restored endodontically treated teeth. This article reviews the biomechanical considerations in intact and endodontically treated teeth. The biomechanical principles underlying the occurrence of cracked tooth and vertical root fracture are also reviewed.
Hippo pathway and protection of genome stability in response to DNA damage
Authors: Pefani Dafni E. , O'Neill Eric
Published: November 2015

The integrity of DNA is constantly challenged by exposure to the damaging effects of chemical and physical agents. Elucidating the cellular mechanisms that maintain genomic integrity via DNA repair and cell growth control is vital because errors in these processes lead to genomic damage and the development of cancer. By gaining a deep molecular understanding of the signaling pathways regulating genome integrity it is hoped to uncover new therapeutics and treatment designs to combat cancer. Components of the Hippo pathway, a tumor‐suppressor cascade, have recently been defined to limit cancer transformation in response to DNA damage. In this review, we briefly introduce the Hippo signaling cascade in mammals and discuss in detail how the Hippo pathway has been established as part of the DNA damage response, activated by apical signaling kinases that recognize breaks in DNA. We also highlight the significance of the Hippo pathway activator RASSF1A tumor suppressor, a direct target of ataxia telangiectasia mutated and ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3 related ATR. Furthermore we discuss how Hippo pathway in response DNA lesions can induce cell death via Yes‐associated protein (YAP) (the canonical Hippo pathway effector) or promote maintenance of genome integrity in a YAP‐independent manner.
Analysis of urinary cathepsin C for diagnosing Papillon–Lefèvre syndrome
Authors: Hamon Yveline , Legowska Monika , Fergelot Patricia , Dallet‐Choisy Sandrine , Newell Louise , Vanderlynden Lise , Kord Valeshabad Ali , Acrich Karina , Kord Hadi , Tsamakis Charalampos , Morice‐Picard Fanny , Surplice Ian , Zoidakis Jerome , David Karen , Vlahou Antonia , Ragunatha Shivanna , Nagy Nikoletta , Farkas Katalin , Széll Márta , Goizet Cyril , Schacher Beate , Battino Maurizio , Al Farraj Aldosari Abdullah , Wang Xinwen , Liu Yang , Marchand‐Adam Sylvain , Lesner Adam , Kara Elodie , Korkmaz‐Icöz Sevil , Moss Celia , Eickholz Peter , Taieb Alain , Kavukcu Salih , Jenne Dieter E. , Gauthier Francis , Korkmaz Brice
Published: November 2015

Papillon–Lefèvre syndrome (PLS) (OMIM: 245000) is a rare disease characterized by severe periodontitis and palmoplantar keratoderma. It is caused by mutations in both alleles of the cathepsin C (CatC) gene CTSC that completely abrogate the proteolytic activity of this cysteine proteinase. Most often, a genetic analysis to enable early and rapid diagnosis of PLS is unaffordable or unavailable. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that active CatC is constitutively excreted and can be easily traced in the urine of normal subjects. If this is true, determining its absence in the urine of patients would be an early, simple, reliable, low‐cost and easy diagnostic technique. All 75 urine samples from healthy control subjects (aged 3 months to 80 years) contained proteolytically active CatC and its proform, as revealed by kinetic analysis and immunochemical detection. Of the urine samples of 31 patients with a PLS phenotype, 29 contained neither proteolytically active CatC nor the CatC antigen, so that the PLS diagnosis was confirmed. CatC was detected in the urine of the other two patients, and genetic analysis revealed no loss‐of‐function mutation in CTSC, indicating that they suffer from a PLS‐like condition but not from PLS. Screening for the absence of urinary CatC activity soon after birth and early treatment before the onset of PLS manifestations will help to prevent aggressive periodontitis and loss of many teeth, and should considerably improve the quality of life of PLS patients.
Fructan, sucrose and related enzyme activities are preserved in timothy (Phleum pratenseL.) during wilting
Authors: Ould‐Ahmed M. , Decau M.‐L. , Morvan‐Bertrand A. , Prud'homme M. ‐P. , Lafrenière C. , Drouin P.
Published: November 2015

Timothy (Phleum pratenseL.) is an important forage grass used for pasture, hay and silage in regions with cool and humid growth seasons. Harvesting conditions could reduce its nutritive value, particularly with extended wilting periods. To understand how daytime or night‐time wilting influences the nutritive value of timothy, this study investigated the metabolism of non‐structural carbohydrates, including fructan and starch, together with total soluble protein and amino acid patterns in timothy plants harvested at two maturity stages (heading and anthesis) and wilted under controlled conditions for 24 h at two temperatures (15°C, 20°C) and two light regimes (darkness, light) by simulating different wilting management practices. Correlation analysis with the whole dataset showed that soluble protein, glucose and starch contents declined in plant tissues concomitantly with water loss, while amino acid, sucrose and fructose contents increased. Transient increase in amino acid content suggests that the decrease in protein content was due to proteolysis during wilting. Sucrose and fructose contents generally increased in plant tissues harvested at anthesis and wilted in light whereas they were unaffected in plants wilted in darkness. Fructan content remained stable. Fructan exohydrolase (FEH) and soluble acid invertase (INV) activities were well preserved during the first 12 h of wilting and might facilitate the fermentation process at the beginning of ensiling by supplying fructose from fructans and hexoses from sucrose to the fermentive bacteria.
Antimicrobial peptide LL‐37 attenuates infection of hepatitis C virus
Authors: Matsumura Takuya , Sugiyama Nao , Murayama Asako , Yamada Norie , Shiina Masaaki , Asabe Shinichi , Wakita Takaji , Imawari Michio , Kato Takanobu
Published: November 2015

Aim

Although recent studies indicate that supplementation with vitamin D (VD) potentiates a sustained viral response by interferon‐based therapy to chronic hepatitis C, detailed mechanisms are not fully defined. The production of cathelicidin, an antimicrobial peptide, has been demonstrated to be part of the VD‐dependent antimicrobial pathway in innate immunity. Cathelicidin is known to directly kill or inhibit the growth of microbial pathogens including mycobacteria and viruses.

Methods

We used a hepatitis C virus (HCV) cell culture system to clarify the anti‐HCV effects of the human cathelicidin, LL‐37. HuH‐7 cells were administrated with LL‐37 and infected with cell culture‐generated HCV (HCVcc). HCV propagation was estimated by measuring the level of HCV core antigen (Ag).

Results

Treatment with LL‐37 resulted in decreased intra‐ and extracellular levels of HCV core Ag, suggesting inhibition of HCV propagation. To assess the effects of LL‐37 on HCV replication, JFH‐1 subgenomic replicon RNA‐transfected cells were treated with LL‐37. However, inhibition of HCV replication was not detected by this assay. To clarify the effects on HCV infection, we treated HCVcc with LL‐37 and removed the antimicrobial peptide prior to use of the virus in infection. This exposure of HCVcc to LL‐37 diminished the infectivity titers in a dose‐dependent fashion. Iodixanol density gradient analysis revealed that the peak fraction of infectivity titer was eliminated by LL‐37 treatment.

Conclusion

The VD‐associated antimicrobial peptide LL‐37 attenuated the infectivity of HCV. This anti‐HCV effect of LL‐37 may explain the contribution of VD to the improved efficacy of interferon‐based therapy.
Diagnostic value of miRNA‐96‐5p/3p in dysplastic nodules and well‐differentiated small hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Hui , Xing Ai‐Yan , Ma Ran‐Ran , Wang Ya‐Wen , Liu Yu‐Hui , Gao Peng
Published: November 2015

Aim

Hepatocarcinogenesis is a multistep process from cirrhosis through low‐grade dysplastic nodule, high‐grade dysplastic nodule to hepatocellular carcinoma. Differential diagnosis between high‐grade dysplastic nodules and early hepatocellular carcinomas is particularly difficult. The present study aims to identify a novel biological marker for differential diagnosis of the two lesions.

Methods

The expression level of an miRNA pair, miRNA‐96‐5p and 3p, was assessed by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction in hepatic tissues.

Results

We showed that mature miRNA‐96‐5p and passenger strand miRNA‐96‐3p were differentially expressed in multistep hepatocarcinogenesis. miRNA‐96‐5p was significantly upregulated from cirrhosis, dysplastic nodules to hepatocellular carcinoma. However, significance of determination of miRNA‐96‐5p expression level for differential diagnosis between high‐grade dysplastic nodule and hepatocellular carcinoma is limited. In contrast, the expression of miRNA‐96‐3p was detectable in cirrhosis and dysplastic nodules. Also, it was completely undetectable in the majority of hepatocellular carcinomas (30/34, 88.2%). The sensitivity and specificity of miRNA‐96‐3p negative expression for differential diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinomas from high‐grade dysplastic nodules were 88.2% and 84.2%, respectively. In addition, a more specific diagnosis could be carried out by combining miRNA‐96‐3p with glypican 3, with the specificity of 100%.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrated that miRNA‐96‐3p is a helpful diagnostic biomarker in differential diagnosis between high‐grade dysplastic nodules and well‐differentiated small hepatocellular carcinomas, especially in combination with glypican 3.