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Objective: To examine the value of the crossover sign (COS) in predicting treatment outcome in women with a Cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) who were treated with ultrasound‐guided vacuum aspiration. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of women with CSP who underwent ultrasound‐guided vacuum aspiration. Based on the relationship between the gestational sac, Cesarean scar and anterior wall of the uterus, CSPs were classified by COS type. Analysis was conducted to investigate the association between COS type (COS‐1, COS‐2) and treatment outcome. The incidence of treatment failure, retained pregnancy tissue, secondary therapy and bleeding ≥ 200 mL were analyzed. Results: In total, 181 eligible patients with CSP, including 90 (49.7%) women with COS‐1 and 91 (50.3%) women with COS‐2, were analyzed. COS‐1 patients had a higher incidence of treatment failure compared with COS‐2 patients (25.6% vs 8.8%; P = 0.003), as well as higher rates of retained pregnancy tissue (18.9% vs 6.6%; P = 0.013), secondary therapy (20.0% vs 6.6%; P = 0.002) and bleeding of ≥ 200 mL (13.3% vs 4.4%; P = 0.034). COS‐1 and a large gestational sac (30.1–50.0 mm or >50.0 mm in diameter) were associated independently with increased risk of treatment failure (odds ratio, 4.57 (95% CI, 1.66–12.56); P = 0.003, 4.34 (95% CI, 1.35–13.94); P = 0.014 and 10.50 (95% CI, 2.54–43.46); P = 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: Ultrasound evaluation of the relationship between the gestational sac and the endometrial line (COS classification) in women with CSP may help to predict treatment outcome among those undergoing vacuum aspiration. Among COS‐1 patients, especially those with a gestational sac diameter of >30.0 mm, vacuum aspiration may be discouraged. © 2023 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The two most commonly used airway management techniques during general anaesthesia are supraglottic airway devices and tracheal tubes. In older patients undergoing elective non‐cardiothoracic surgery under general anaesthesia with positive pressure ventilation, we hypothesised that a composite measure of in‐hospital postoperative pulmonary complications would be less frequent when a supraglottic airway device was used compared with a tracheal tube. We studied patients aged ≥ 70 years in 17 clinical centres. Patients were allocated randomly to airway management with a supraglottic airway device or a tracheal tube. Between August 2016 and April 2020, 2900 patients were studied, of whom 2751 were included in the primary analysis (1387 with supraglottic airway device and 1364 with a tracheal tube). Pre‐operatively, 2431 (88.4%) patients were estimated to have a postoperative pulmonary complication risk index of 1–2. Postoperative pulmonary complications, mostly coughing, occurred in 270 of 1387 patients (19.5%) allocated to a supraglottic airway device and 342 of 1364 patients (25.1%) assigned to a tracheal tube (absolute difference −5.6% (95%CI −8.7 to −2.5), risk ratio 0.78 (95%CI 0.67–0.89); p < 0.001). Among otherwise healthy older patients undergoing elective surgery under general anaesthesia with intra‐operative positive pressure ventilation of their lungs, there were fewer postoperative pulmonary complications when the airway was managed with a supraglottic airway device compared with a tracheal tube. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Members of the GAPDH family play important roles in plant growth and development, as well as in stress responses. Our aim was to identify stress resistance genes through systematic analysis of the GAPDH family in watermelon. This could not only provide genetic resources for stress resistance breeding, but also form a basis for the study of plant stress resistance mechanisms.Eight GAPDHs representing four types of plant GAPDH in watermelon were identified (ClGAPA/B, ClGAPC1‐3, ClGAPCp1‐2 and ClGAPN). A comprehensive analysis of physicochemical properties, chromosome distribution, evolutionary relationships, exon‐intron structure and conserved motifs of watermelon GAPDHs was performed using bioinformatics. Expression characteristics were assessed by RT‐qPCR. Based on RT‐qPCR results, ClGAPC2 was screened as a candidate for subcellular localization analysis and functional verification in Arabidopsis thaliana.Eight GAPDHs were classified into four subfamilies. GAPDHs in each subgroup were generally conserved and shared similarities in structure and conserved motifs. ClGAPDHs had notable tissue specificity and different expression patterns in response to H2O2, chilling, salt, osmotic stress, heat, salicylic acid, gibberellin, brassinosterol, ethylene and abscisic acid treatments. Three ClGAPC genes, especially ClGAPC2, were markedly induced by several treatments. ClGAPC2 was located in the nucleus and cytoplasm of tabacum epidermal cells. The ClGAPC2 transgenic Arabidopsis showed enhanced tolerance to salinity at the germination stage.We suggest that ClGAPC2 plays important roles in the adaptation of watermelon to salinity. Our findings provided candidate genes for further improving the salt tolerance of watermelon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article proposes a change in the type species for the genus Clitocybe, a group of fungi. The current type species, Agaricus infundibuliformis, is unrelated to Clitocybe and belongs to a different genus. The authors suggest selecting Clitocybe phyllophila as the new type species because it aligns with the characteristics of Clitocybe and is widely accessible for scientific examination. This change would result in the majority of species remaining classified under Clitocybe and would avoid numerous taxonomic combinations. The proposal also addresses the distinction between Clitocybe and Lepista, another related genus. [Extracted from the article]

Objective: To estimate the incidence of urinary incontinence (UI), including its subtypes stress UI (SUI), urgency UI (UUI) and mixed UI (MUI), and to examine risk factors for de novo SUI and UUI in Chinese women. Design: Nationwide longitudinal study. Setting: Six geographic regions of China. Participants: Women aged ≥20 years old were included using a multistage, stratified, cluster sampling method. Methods: This study was conducted between May 2014 and March 2016, with follow up in 2018. Data on demographics, medical history, lifestyle and physiological and anthropometric information were collected. Main outcome measurements: Incidence, rate ratio (RR). Results: Analyses included 24 985 women (mean age 41.9 years).The follow‐up response rate was 55.5%, median follow‐up time was 3.7 years. The standardised incidences of UI, SUI, UUI and MUI were 21.2, 13.1, 3.0 and 5.1 per 1000 person‐years, respectively. Risk factors for de novo SUI included delivery pattern (vaginal spontaneous delivery RR 2.12, 95% CI 1.62–2.78 and instrumental delivery RR 3.30, 95% CI 1.99–5.45), high body mass index (BMI) (overweight RR 1.52, 95% CI 1.33–1.74 and obesity RR 1.67, 95% CI 1.32–2.11), cigarette smoking (RR 1.54, 95% CI 1.12–2.12), chronic cough (RR 1.44, 95% CI 1.17–1.76), diabetes (RR 1.33, 95% CI 1.10–1.60) and older age (50–59 years RR 1.49, 95% CI 1.16–1.90 and 60–69 years RR 1.61, 95% CI 1.22–2.13).The risk factors significantly associated with de novo UUI were age (RR increased from 1.21, 95% CI 0.74–1.99, at 30–39 years to 6.3, 95% CI 3.85–10.30, at >70 years) and diabetes (RR 1.48, 95% CI 1.05–2.09). Conclusions: The incidence of female UI is 21.2 per 1000 person‐years in China. Delivery (vaginal spontaneous delivery, instrumental delivery), high BMI, cigarette smoking, chronic cough, diabetes and older age were risk factors. The incidence of female urinary incontinence was 21.2 per 1000 person‐years in China. Delivery, BMI, diabetes and old age are risk factors. The incidence of female urinary incontinence was 21.2 per 1000 person‐years in China. Delivery, BMI, diabetes and old age are risk factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the prevalence, risk factors and burden of symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse (POP) in adult Chinese women.Design: A nationwide cross-sectional study.Setting: Six geographic regions of mainland China.Participants: Women aged ≥20 years old were included using a multistage, stratified, cluster sampling method from February 2014 through March 2016.Methods: We conducted a nationwide epidemiological survey. 'Symptomatic POP' was determined by a screening questionnaire and physical examination.Main Outcome Measurements: Prevalence, odds ratio (OR).Results: A total of 55 477 women (response rate, 92.5%; mean age, 45.1 years old) were included. The prevalence of symptomatic POP was 9.6% (95% CI 9.3-9.8%) and it increased with age in each stage (P < 0.05). Symptomatic POP-Q stage II, which mainly involved anterior compartment prolapse, was the most common (7.52%). Minor/moderate burden of symptomatic POP was the most common, with a prevalence of 9.7% (95% CI 9.5-10.0%). The odds for each type of symptomatic POP increased with age (>50 vs 20-29 years old in symptomatic POP-Q stage II or higher, OR increased from 1.34 [95% CI 1.32-1.45] to 7.34 [95% CI 4.34-12.41]) and multiple vaginal deliveries (multiparous [≥3] vs nulliparous in symptomatic POP-Q stage II or higher, OR increased from 1.91 [1.71-2.13] to 2.78 [2.13-3.64]).Conclusions: We found a lower prevalence of symptomatic POP than that found in other surveys. The main type of symptomatic POP was anterior compartment prolapse, indicating that it should be considered first. Older age and multiple vaginal deliveries increased the odds of each type of symptomatic POP.Tweetable Abstract: The prevalence of female symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse (POP) was 9.6% in China. It is related to old age and multiple vaginal deliveries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physics-based Data Assimilation (DA) has been shown to be a powerful technique for specifying and predicting space weather. However, it is also known that different data assimilation models simulating the same geophysical event can display different space weather features even if the same data are assimilated. In this study, we used our Multimodel Ensemble Prediction System (MEPS) of DA models to elucidate the similarities and differences in the individual DA model reconstructions of the mid-low latitude ionosphere when the same data are assimilated. Ensemble model averages were also obtained. For this ensemble modeling study, we selected the quiet/storm period of 16 and 17 March 2013 (equinox, solar medium). Five data assimilation models and one physics-based model were used to produce an ensemble mean output for Total Electron Content (TEC), ionospheric peak density (NmF2), and ionospheric peak height (hmF2) for latitudes less than 60° and all longitudes. The data assimilated included ground-based Global Positioning Satellite TEC and topside plasma densities near 800 km altitude derived from the COSMIC (Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate) satellites. Both a simple average and a weighted average of the models were used in the ensemble averaging in order to determine if there was an improvement of the ensemble averages over the individual models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cadmium (Cd)‐polluted soils are is an increasing concern worldwide. Phytoextraction of Cd pollutants by high biomass plants, such as sweet sorghum, is considered an environmentally‐friendly, cost‐effective and sustainable strategy for remediating this problem. Nitrogen (N) is a macronutrient essential for plant growth, development and stress resistance. Nevertheless, how nitrate, as an important form of N, affects Cd uptake, translocation and accumulation in sweet sorghum is still unclear.In the present study, a series of nitrate levels (N1, 0.5 mm; N2, 2 mm; N3, 4 mm; N4, 8 mm and N5, 16 mm) with or without added 5 μm CdCl2 treatment in sweet sorghum was investigated hydroponically.The results indicate that Cd accumulation in the aboveground parts of sweet sorghum was enhanced by optimum nitrate supply, resulting from both increased dry weight and Cd concentration. Although root‐to‐shoot Cd translocation was not enhanced by increased nitrate, some Cd was transferred from cell walls to vacuoles in leaves. Intriguingly, expression levels of Cd uptake and transport genes, SbNramp1, SbNramp5 and SbHMA3, were not closely related to increased Cd as affected by nitrate supply. The expression of SbNRT1.1B in relation to nitrate transport showed an inverted 'U' shape with increasing nitrate levels under Cd stress, which was in agreement with trends in Cd concentration changes in aboveground tissues.Based on the aforementioned results, nitrate might regulate Cd uptake and accumulation through expression of SbNRT1.1B rather than SbNramp1, SbNramp5 or SbHMA3, the well‐documented genes related to Cd uptake and transport in sweet sorghum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of mesh is controversial in the treatment of female pelvic organ prolapse.Objectives: To systematically review the outcomes of sacrocolpopexy compared with transvaginal mesh surgery and to provide evidence-based suggestions.Search Strategy: The MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and clinicaltrials.gov databases were searched on 21 November 2018.Selection Criteria: Randomised controlled trials and prospective and retrospective cohort studies were included.Data Collection and Analysis: Data were extracted by one reviewer and examined by a second reviewer for accuracy. Odds ratios and 95% CI were calculated using random-effects models.Main Results: Twenty comparative studies were included. The meta-analysis was performed with subgroups. The summary odds ratios of the randomised controlled group were 1.84 (95% CI 0.79-4.29, I2  = 75%) for anatomical success, 1.41 (95% CI 0.47-4.24, I2  = 38%) for subjective success, 0.42 (95% CI 0.18-0.98, I2  = 0%) for mesh complications, 0.61 (95% CI 0.20-1.91, I2  = 0%) for prolapse reoperation and 0.44 (95% CI 0.23-0.88, I2  = 0%) for de novo dyspareunia. The mean differences were 0.77 (95% CI 0.31-1.23, I2  = 66%) for total vaginal length and -1.28 (95% CI -2.00 to -0.55, I2  = 66%) for point C after surgery.Conclusions: Very-low-quality evidence indicated that the anatomical and subjective success rates of sacrocolpopexy were similar to those of transvaginal mesh surgery; sacrocolpopexy might be more beneficial than transvaginal mesh surgery in terms of mesh-related complication rates, prolapse recurrence and de novo dyspareunia. However, additional high-quality randomised trials with long-term follow-up durations are needed.Tweetable Abstract: Sacrocolpopexy is beneficial after surgical anatomical changes and has decreased rates of mesh-related complications and dyspareunia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The earlywood vessels (EWVs) of ring‐porous species are formed in the outermost tree ring to guarantee efficient water transport before bud break. At present, it is unclear which climatic factors influence the formation of EWV traits of trees in temperate forests, which limits the accuracy of predicting forest response to climate change. We investigated the EWV traits of Manchurian ash (Fraxinus mandshurica Rupr.) in a network of 19 sites in northeast China. Ring width (RW) was significantly negatively correlated with vessel density (VD) and positively correlated with other EWV traits, including mean vessel area (MVA), hydraulic diameter (Dh), vessel number (VN), and total vessel area (TVA). The climate signals recorded by RW and EWV traits were consistent in almost all sites. Temperature was the most important climate factor limiting xylem formation that influences RW and EWV of Manchurian ash. The minimum temperature, especially in the previous growing season, was positively correlated with RW and EWV traits but negatively correlated with VD at almost all sites. In the drier northern sites, temperature and moisture in nongrowing season also had a positive effect on RW and EWV traits. The rapid warming around 1980 significantly promotes hydraulic efficiency (Dh, VN, MVA, and TVA) and carbon assimilation (RW), which provided a potential physiological mechanisms of climate warming leading to growth increase of ring‐porous broadleaf species. It is worth noting that continuous climate warming has brought great benefits to tree growth, but it also increases the risk of hydraulic failure, especially in the south. Key Points: Temperature limits vessel features of earlywood and radial growth of Manchurian ashThe limitation of water (drought) stress in northern dry sites increased significantlyThe climate signals recorded by ring width and vessel features were almost the sameRapid warming increased water conduction and carbon allocation of Manchurian ash [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The flexible sponge/epoxy composite can wrap underwater artefacts in any shape and forms a protective shell after curing, thus effectively wrapping and reinforcing the artefacts. However, the hydroscopicity of the sponge itself limits the underwater application of the sponge/epoxy composite. In this study, a novel polyurethane sponge was prepared by modified with super‐hydrophobic multi‐wall carbon nanotubes (SH‐MWCNTs@PU sponge). Compared with the pristine PU sponge, the water‐contact angle on the surface of SH‐MWCNTs@PU sponges increased from 103.3 ± 1.82 to 152.6 ± 1.54o, and oily epoxy resin was able to cover the surface completely. The study shows that when SH‐MWCNTs@PU sponges/epoxy resin composite material is used underwater, it prevents both water from entering the sponge and also the inside epoxy resin from overflowing into the water. Moreover, the composite materials have excellent toughness after reinforcement under water (flexural strength = 3.56 MPa) and the soft sponges can be moulded to wrap any type of underwater artefacts. In the laboratory, when taking a broken, three‐dimensional blue‐and‐white porcelain pot as a research subject, the entire retrieval process—temporary stabilization, packaging, extraction and reinforcement material removal—was simulated to evaluate systematically all the technological aspects of safely excavating fragile underwater relics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ocular involvement can occur at any stage of syphilis. Prompt diagnosis and proper treatment of ocular syphilis are vital to avoid long‐term consequences. Objectives: To describe the risk factors for ocular syphilis and clinical features of blindness caused by syphilis. Methods: We report risk factors for ocular syphilis amongst patients seen at the Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital between October 2009 and October 2017. We identify patients with ocular syphilis resulting in blindness and report the clinical characteristics, laboratory findings and treatment outcomes of these patients. Results: A total of 8310 new cases of syphilis were seen, of which 213 patients had ocular disease and 50 patients had blindness due to syphilis. Increasing age and higher RPR titres were associated with ocular involvement but there was no association with HIV status. Blindness in syphilis was restricted predominantly to patients with optic nerve involvement and not patients with isolated uveitis. Fifty patients (and a total of 67 eyes) met the WHO definition of blindness prior to treatment for syphilis. At the end of follow‐up, vision had improved in 24 of 67 eyes (35.8%) after treatment. Successful treatment of uveitis was associated with the best improvement in visual acuity, whilst patient with underlying optic atrophy prior to treatment had the worst visual outcome. Conclusions: Ocular involvement is an important manifestation of syphilis which may result in blindness. Our data demonstrate outcomes for ocular syphilis are poor if detected late; early recognition and diagnosis is therefore vital to avoid permanent visual loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intravenous leiomyomatosis (IVL) is a rare disorder where benign smooth muscle tumours, typically originating from the uterus, spread into great vessels or the heart. Complete surgical excision is the standard therapy but recurrence can occur despite the use of adjuvant anti-estrogen therapy.[1] Currently there is no effective medical therapy that can be used in isolation or in combination with anti-estrogen therapy to prevent relapse or control recurrent disease after surgery. The patient's treatment, and changes in pelvic mass and pulmonary lesions on PET-CT imaging are summarised in Figure. [Extracted from the article]

Aim: To compare the efficacy of ultrasonically activated irrigation (UAI), photon‐induced photoacoustic streaming (PIPS) and shock wave enhanced emission photoacoustic streaming (SWEEPS) activation for the removal of accumulated hard‐tissue debris (AHTD) from the root canal system of mandibular molars when assessed using microcomputed tomography (micro‐CT). Methodology: A total of 30 mandibular first and second molars with joining mesial root canals containing an isthmus and a single distal canal were subjected to three micro‐CT scans (before and after canal instrumentation and after final irrigation) at a resolution of 15 μm. Mesial canals were prepared up to a ProTaper F3 rotary file, and distal canals were prepared up to a ProTaper F4 rotary file. Teeth were randomly assigned to three groups according to the irrigant activation method (n = 10): the UAI group, the PIPS group and the SWEEPS group. The final irrigation procedures were performed using a total of 15.5 mL of 1% NaOCl for each tooth with an activation time of 3 × 30 s. After three‐dimensional model reconstruction and volumetric measurement of root canals, the percentage reduction (%Rd) of AHTD was calculated. The %Rd of AHTD was analysed statistically using one‐way analysis of variance and nonparametric tests at a significance level of 5%. Results: There were no significant differences between the three groups in terms of canal volume before or after instrumentation, or the volume of debris after canal preparation (P > 0.05). In the mesial canals, irrigation with SWEEPS reduced the overall debris by 84.31%, which was significantly more than the reduction associated with PIPS and UAI (58.79% and 50.27%, respectively). In the distal canals, the %Rd of AHTD was significantly different between PIPS and SWEEPS and between UAI and SWEEPS (P < 0.05), but was not significantly different between PIPS and UAI groups (P > 0.05). The SWEEPS was associated with a greater %Rd of AHTD than the PIPS and UAI groups. Conclusions: SWEEPS was associated with significantly less debris compared than PIPS and UAI, especially in isthmus‐containing mesial roots. None of the activation techniques completely removed debris from root canal systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The most common type of male infertility is asthenospermia. We cloned DnaJ heat shock protein family member B13 (Dnajb13/DNAJB13), a type II HSP40 family member that is highly expressed in the testis. DNAJB13 plays a crucial role in sperm flagellar function. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate whether a correlation exists between DNAJB13 and low sperm motility in infertile men. Materials and methods: In the present study, we performed a mutation screening of the DNAJB13 gene in 92 idiopathic asthenozoospermia patients and 200 men with normal fertility. Additionally, we used immunoelectron microscopy, co‐immunoprecipitation, mass spectrometric detection, indirect immunofluorescence assay, transmission electron microscopy studies, isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation, and multiple reaction monitoring studies to analyze changes in DNAJB13 protein. Results: A novel c.106T>C mutation of DNAJB13 was present in nearly 10% (9/92) of idiopathic asthenozoospermia patients and was absent in 200 fertile men. A computer‐assisted sperm analyzer and transmission electron microscopy analysis using samples from 9 patients with DNAJB13 mutations demonstrated that most spermatozoa were immotile due to sperm tail defects. Multiple reaction monitoring results indicated that DNAJB13 protein levels were reduced after gene mutation. We achieved a pregnancy rate of 100% in 8 patients with DNAJB13 mutations using ICSI. Discussion and conclusion: The DNAJB13 heterozygous variant may affect fertility. ICSI can help these patients with low fertility to father children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on broadband seismic data from 102 stations in the eastern Himalayan collision zone, the crustal thickness and Poisson's ratio were determined by using the H‐κ stacking analysis of teleseismic P wave receiver functions. The Moho topography rapidly deepens northward in the northern Lhasa terrane, inferring the northern limit of the Indian plate underthrusting beneath Tibetan Plateau. Our seismic images show that steep subduction of the Indian plate occurs to the west of the Eastern Himalayan Syntaxis while gentle subduction to the east. The variation of subduction geometry of the Indian plate may be one of the causes for the formation of the eastern Himalayan Syntaxis. The 2‐D crustal density modeling of the gravity measurements shows that the average crustal density in the eastern Himalayan collision zone is less dense than the global average continental crust, and our preferred model has 5‐ to 10‐km‐thick, high density layer (2,970–3,000 kg/m3) in the lower crust beneath the eastern Lhasa terrane, consistent with mafic underplating. The attributes of a thickened crust with northward deepening Moho and low‐to‐normal Poisson's ratio might be the geophysical signature of delamination beneath the Lhasa terrane and underthrusting of Indian plate. We hypothesize that the orogenic root of the Lhasa terrane was removed by convective‐driven delamination, followed by northward subduction of the Indian plate. Thus, delamination and continental subduction are the dominant deep processes in the postcollisional stage in the eastern Himalayan collision zone. Key Points: Seismic images show steep subduction of the Indian plate to the west of the Eastern Himalayan Syntaxis and gentle subduction to the eastLow‐to‐normal crustal Poisson's ratio values in the Lhasa terrane are interpreted as the geophysical signature of delaminationDelamination and continental subduction are the dominant deep processes in the postcollisional stage of the evolution of the Eastern Himalayan collision zone [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The prevalence of Candida infections in paediatric intensive care units (PICUs) has dramatically increased as a result of resistance to conventional anti‐fungal treatments. Because vitamin D has been shown to exhibit fungicidal activity against Candida infection in an in vitro antimicrobial screening, we aimed to investigate the effect of vitamin D on Candida infections in the PICU. Methods: Four hundred sixteen eligible children aged between 12 months to 5 years old admitted to the PICU, who were on broad‐spectrum antibiotic therapy, participated in the study. Patients were randomly assigned to two study groups, receiving a plain yogurt drink (placebo group) or supplemented with 300 IU day−1 vitamin D (VD group). Primary outcome was defined as the incidences of Candida colonisation (Candida isolated from rectal swab) 14 days after enrollment. Secondary outcome measures were Candida growth in blood (candidaemia) and urine (candiduria). Results: The prevalence of candiduria as well as candidaemia was significantly lower in the VD‐treated group (26 cases) than in the placebo group (62 cases). The mean (SD) length of PICU stay was obviously lowered in the VD group [11.8 (1.2) days] compared to the placebo group [15.2 (2.3 days)], whereas cases of patient death were similar between the two groups. Conclusions: Supplementation of vitamin D effectively reduces infections of Candida in children who were critically ill and on broad‐spectrum antibiotic treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beneath southwestern Colombia, intermediate‐depth earthquakes in the Cauca cluster locate in the subducting Nazca plate and in two columns extending ~40‐km into the mantle wedge above the slab. To investigate the cluster, we determine focal mechanisms for 69 small‐to‐moderate‐sized (2.3 ≤ Ml ≤ 4.7) earthquakes in the cluster by fitting short‐period body wave waveforms using the cut‐and‐paste method. The focal mechanisms have various faulting types and variably oriented nodal planes. We invert the focal mechanisms of the intraslab earthquakes for the intraslab stress field but cannot fit the region with a homogeneous stress tensor. We find that the principal stress axes rotate with the slab geometry, which has a concave shape and increases in dip angle from north to south. The northern region has slab normal compression and similar‐magnitude maximum and intermediate principal stresses. The minimum stress axis is oriented ~41° counterclockwise from the downdip direction. In the steeper southern region, the intermediate stress axis orients in the downdip direction. Deviation from a typical downdip extensional stress field may result from a buoyant young slab, an eastward mantle flow push, and/or along‐strike compression from the concave shape of the slab. This stress field would allow slip along preexisting faults of various orientations, such as the trench‐perpendicular seafloor features presently observed offshore, and contribute to the apparent heterogeneity of the intraslab stress field. The mantle wedge earthquakes also have various focal mechanisms but tend to have a subvertical nodal plane that aligns with the earthquake locations. Key Points: Cauca cluster earthquakes have various focal mechanisms with variably oriented nodal planes inconsistent with a homogeneous stress tensorThe average intraslab stress field has slab normal compression with in‐slab extension oriented ~45° from the downdip directionDeviation from a typical downdip extensional stress field may result from a young slab, mantle flow push, or a concave shape of the slab [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) reduction is well observed in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients treated with pegylated interferon alpha‐2a (PegIFNα). However, the mechanism of HBsAg suppression has not been fully elucidated. Twenty‐seven of 55 entecavir‐treated CHB e antigen positive patients were switched to PegIFNα treatment (Group A) whereas 28 patients continued entecavir treatment (Group B). The percentage or absolute number of CD56bright/CD56dimNK cells, expression of receptors and cytokines were evaluated by flow cytometry for 48 weeks and correlated with treatment efficacy. In vitro, purified NK cells were co‐cultured with HepAD38 cells for measurement of HBsAg, apoptosis and covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA). In association with a reduction of HBsAg, the percentage and absolute number of CD56brightNK cells was significantly elevated in patients in group A, especially in Virologic Responders (VRs, HBsAg decreased). Furthermore, the percentage of NKp30+, NKp46+, TRAIL+, TNF‐α+ and IFNγ+CD56brightNK cells were significantly expanded in Group A, which were positively correlated with the decline of HBsAg at week 48. In vitro, peripheral NK cells from Group A induced a decline of HBsAg in comparison with NK cells from Group B which was significantly inhibited by anti‐TRAIL, anti‐TNF‐α and anti‐IFNγ antibodies. Furthermore, apoptosis of HepAD38 cells and levels of cccDNA, were significantly reduced by TRAIL+ and TNF‐α+/IFNγ+NK cells from Group A, respectively. A functional restoration of CD56brightNK cells in entecavir‐treated patients who were switched to PegIFNα contributes to HBsAg and cccDNA clearance through TRAIL‐induced cytolysis and TNF‐α/IFNγ‐mediated noncytolytic pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has been reported in colorectal cancer in many studies. We conducted a meta‐analysis to assess the association between HPV infection and colorectal cancer/adenomas in the Chinese population. Method: Relevant studies up to January 2018 were searched in PubMed, EMBASE, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and the Wanfang database. We used a random effects model to determine the prevalence of HPV and odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The I2 statistic and P‐value from the Cochrane Q‐test were used to describe the heterogeneity. Results: Ten case–control studies involving 766 colorectal cancer patients and 470 controls were included in the meta‐analysis. Among the colorectal cancer patients, the pooled prevalence was 0.45 (95% CI 0.36–0.53). The pooled estimate for OR was 10.78 (95% CI 4.22, 27.53). Among the 193 patients with colorectal adenoma, the pooled prevalence and OR were 0.31 (95% CI 0.24–0.37) and 2.03 (95% CI 0.79, 5.26), respectively. The prevalence of HPV 16 and HPV 18 among HPV‐positive cancers ranged from 57.9% to 100% and 0% to 39.7%, respectively. Conclusion: The results indicated that HPV infection, especially HPV 16 and HPV 18, is associated with colorectal cancer in the Chinese population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the success rate of vaginal pessary fitting and identify the risk factors associated with unsuccessful pessary fitting in a large cohort of patients with symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse (POP).Design: Prospective observational study.Setting: The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China.Population: Women with symptomatic POP between May 2015 and December 2016 (n = 343).Methods: A successful pessary fitting was defined as a patient fitted with a pessary at the initial fitting and continued use 2 weeks later. The independent samples t-test, non-parametric test, Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic curves were used for the data analysis.Main Outcome Measures: The success rate of vaginal pessary fitting and the risk factors associated with unsuccessful pessary fitting.Results: 302 patients had successful pessary fitting (88.0% success rate). A higher body mass index [BMI; 24.7 ± 3.1 kg/m2 in the successful group versus 25.7 ± 3.8 kg/m2 in the unsuccessful group, odds ratio (OR) 1.174, 95% CI 1.055-1.307, P = 0.003] and a shorter TVL [8.0 (8-9) cm in the successful group versus 7.0 (6.8-8) cm in the unsuccessful group, OR 0.338, 95% CI 0.223-0.513, P < 0.001) were independent predictors of an unsuccessful pessary fitting. The receiver operating characteristic curve showed that patients with a total vaginal length (TVL) less than 7.3 cm had a higher unsuccessful pessary fitting rate (sensitivity = 0.82, specificity = 0.64).Conclusions: A higher BMI and shorter TVL were independent predictors of an unsuccessful pessary fitting. Patients with a TVL <7.3 cm are not appropriate candidates for a vaginal pessary.Tweetable Abstract: A higher BMI and shorter TVL (<7.3 cm) were independent predictors of an unsuccessful pessary fitting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been considered as an attractive tool for the therapy of diseases. Accumulating evidence indicates that the healing effects of MSCs are mainly related to paracrine action rather than transdifferentiation. Exosomes excreted from MSCs have emerged as physiologically relevant and powerful components of the MSC secretome. However, whether MSC‐derived exosomes can improve erectile function of streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats and its mechanism remains unknown. Our previous work showed that adipose tissue‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) transplantation could increase endothelial and smooth muscle contents and improve erectile function of diabetic rats. In this study, ADSC‐derived exosomes (ADSC‐Exo) exhibited in vitro proangiogenic properties, induced the proliferation of endothelial cells and restored erectile function in vivo, as well as decreased fibrosis of corpus cavernosum. In further experiments, we found that ADSC‐Exo contained some proangiogenic (miR‐126, miR‐130a and miR‐132) microRNAs and an antifibrotic microRNA family (miR‐let7b and miR‐let7c). Thus, it is reasonable to postulate that ADSC‐Exo transports key functional miRNAs to target cells in a specific manner to improve functional recovery or to activate endogenous repair mechanisms. This proof‐of‐concept study provides a novel approach for the treatment of diabetic erectile dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Varicocele (VC) is a common cause of male infertility, but the molecular mechanisms involved in its pathogenesis are unknown. We investigated the impact of varicocelectomy (VCT) on proteome profiles in testicular tissues of rats with VC, and analysed associated target genes and signalling pathways. Sixty male rats with VC were divided into two groups: control (n = 30), and VCT (n = 30). Tissues were collected 4 weeks after sham or VCT surgery. Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionisation time‐of‐flight/time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF/TOF MS) was used to analyse the comparative proteome profiles. Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) Orthology‐Based Annotation System was used for bioinformatic analysis. Fifteen proteins were differentially expressed between control and VCT groups. These differentially expressed proteins are associated with several specific cellular processes associated with the pathogenesis of testicular growth arrest associated with VC. Furthermore, the evaluation by transmission electron micrograph showed that VCT could decrease apoptosis of spermatogenic cells in rats. Understanding such molecular pathways might provide physicians with a better insight into VC and with potential targets for treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in patients undergoing haemodialysis is prevalent and aggressive. The treatment of chronic hepatitis C has been revolutionised by the advent of direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs). However, the safety, efficacy, and tolerance of DAAs in the treatment of acute HCV infection in patients with end‐stage renal disease who are on haemodialysis are unknown. Aim: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of sofosbuvir plus daclatasvir in this specific, difficult‐to‐treat population. Methods: We conducted a prospective and observational study of end‐stage renal disease patients who were undergoing haemodialysis and were acutely infected with HCV. Patients received a half dose of sofosbuvir (200 mg) and a full dose of daclatasvir (60 mg) daily. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients with sustained virological responses (SVRs); the other primary outcomes were safety and tolerability. Results: Thirty‐three patients were enrolled in the study. The median HCV RNA viral load at baseline was 6.8 log10IU/mL. Twenty‐four patients were infected with HCV genotype 2a, seven patients with 1b, and two patients with 2a+1b. All patients achieved a SVR at 12 weeks after the end of treatment. The treatment was well tolerated, and there were no drug‐related serious adverse events. Conclusion: A half dose of sofosbuvir (200 mg once daily) plus a full dose of daclatasvir (60 mg once daily) were suitable for the treatment of acute HCV‐infected patients who were undergoing end‐stage renal disease and were on haemodialysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: National Flood Interoperability Experiment (NFIE) derived technologies and workflows will offer the ability to rapidly forecast flood damages. Address Points used by emergency management personnel approximate the locations of buildings, and they are a common operating picture for emergency responders. Most United States (U.S.) county tax assessment offices throughout the contiguous U.S. (CONUS) produce georeferenced cadastral data. To varying degrees, these parcel data describe building characteristics of structures within the parcel. Address Point data with cadastral data offers the ability to rapidly develop building inventories for flood damage estimation. Flood damage forecasts can expedite recovery and improve short‐term flood resilience. In this work the authors evaluate Flood Damage Wizard, a proposed open source platform independent methodology. Flood Damage Wizard uses point shapefile building information to estimate flood damage to buildings by finding the appropriate depth‐damage function using fuzzy‐text matching. The authors apply Flood Damage Wizard using Address Point and parcel datasets to demonstrate a method of estimating flood damage to buildings nearly anywhere within the CONUS. Results indicate using Address Point and cadastral datasets can generate total flood damage estimates approximate to those estimated using existing software solutions Hazus‐MH and HEC‐FIA with minimal manual processing of input data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The ectomycorrhizal genus Strobilomyces is widely distributed throughout many parts of the world, but its origin, divergence and distribution patterns remain largely unresolved. In this study, we aim to explore the species diversity, distribution and evolutionary patterns of Strobilomyces on a global scale by establishing a general phylogenetic framework with extensive sampling. Location Africa, Australasia, East Asia, Europe, North America, Central America and Southeast Asia. Methods The genealogical concordance phylogenetic species recognition method was used to delimit phylogenetic species. Divergence times were estimated using a Bayesian uncorrelated lognormal relaxed molecular clock. The ancestral area and host of Strobilomyces were inferred via the programs rasp and mesquite. The change of diversification rate over time was estimated using Ape, Laser and Bammtools software packages. Results We recognize a novel African clade and 49 phylogenetic species with morphological evidence, including 18 new phylogenetic species and 23 previously described ones. Strobilomyces probably originated in Africa, in association with Detarioideae/Phyllanthaceae/Monotoideae during the early Eocene. The dispersal to Southeast Asia can be explained by Wolfe's 'Boreotropical migration' hypothesis. East Asia, Australasia, Europe and North/Central America are primarily the recipients of immigrant taxa during the Oligocene or later. A rapid radiation implied by one diversification shift was inferred within Strobilomyces during the Miocene. Main conclusions An unexpected phylogenetic species diversity within Strobilomyces was uncovered. The highest diversity, resulting probably from a rapid radiation, was found in East Asia. Dispersal played an important role in the current distribution pattern of Strobilomyces. The Palaeotropical disjunction is explained by species dispersal from Africa to Southeast Asia through boreotropical forests during the early Eocene. Species from the Northern Hemisphere and Australasia are largely derived from immigrant ancestors from Southeast Asia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The equilibrium solidified phase diagrams of high boron high speed steel have been calculated and the vertical section of iron‐carbon pseudo‐binary phase diagrams has been drawn with different aluminum concentration. The effect of aluminum on phase diagrams and solidification microstructure has been investigated by using optical microscope, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and differential scanning calorimetry. The results show that the austenite region shrinks to a small area and the δ‐iron changes into α‐iron directly during cooling process when the aluminum content reaches 1.5 wt.%. The addition of excessive amount of aluminum favors the formation of ferrite, which leads to the hardness decreasing. Moreover, excessive amount of aluminum (Al≥1.5 wt.%) will make network M2B borocarbides tend to break. Alloying with aluminum raises the solubility of carbon in the matrix and reduces the quenched hardness. The calculation results are agreed with the ones from experimental. The calculation of phase diagrams method has been successfully used for the computation of phase equilibrium in the multi‐component high boron high‐speed steel system. The work provides a practical method for engineers and researchers in related areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is now rare to find a semi-aquatic organism group with which to vigorously test whether their diversification model and distribution pattern are closely related to the Cenozoic temperature variation. This hypothesis is explored for water striders of the genera Aquarius Schellenberg, Gerris Fabricius and Limnoporus Stål, which comprise a monophyletic clade with primarily Holarctic distribution. We sample almost 90% of the currently recognized Aquarius, Gerris and Limnoporus species. Five DNA fragments from 62 species are used to reconstruct a phylogram. Divergence time is estimated using Bayesian relaxed-clock method and three fossil calibrations. We investigate diversification dynamics, biogeography and ancestral state reconstruction by using maximum-likelihood, Bayesian and parsimony approaches. Our results showed that the crown of the three genera originated and underwent an initial diversification in Asia at 72 Ma (HPD: 59-86 Ma) in the Late Cretaceous, subsequently expanding into other regions via dispersal. The Bering Land Bridge was the major migration route between Eurasia and North America but was interrupted before the early Oligocene (34 Ma). Ancestors most likely used lentic habitats, and a minimum of two independent shifts to lotic habitats occurred in the initial diversification. Cenozoic temperature variation regulated the evolutionary history of Holarctic water striders of the genera Aquarius, Gerris and Limnoporus. Temperature warming during Stage I (52-66 Ma) was associated with the disappearance of shallow lentic habitats; this phenomenon forced certain lentic lineages to colonize new lotic habitats and promoted the diversification of lineages. Temperature cooling during Stage II (after 34 Ma) was associated with the fragmentation of water habitats of the 'mixed-mesophytic' belt, resulting in the extinction of historical taxa and influencing close lineages that shaped the present disjunct Eurasian-North American distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim For early-stage breast cancer, four cycles of docetaxel and cyclophosphamide (TC) was proven superior to doxorubicin plus cyclophosphamide in the US Oncology 9375 trial. Given primary prophylactic antibiotics, 5% febrile neutropenia was recorded in a population comprising 75.5% Caucasians. Smaller trials and retrospective studies reviewing TC use in Asian patients did not produce similar incidence rates. This study aims to discover the variable hematological toxicities with TC use in Caucasian and Asian patients. Methods Breast cancer data was retrospectively reviewed for patients receiving adjuvant docetaxel 60-75 mg/m2 plus cyclophosphamide 600 mg/m2 from six countries (China, Hong Kong, Japan, Taiwan, Italy, and United States). Similar number of patients with relatively balanced baseline characteristics were chosen for analysis of hematological and nonhematological toxicities and survival data. Results From March 2004 to July 2013, data of 227 patients (127 Asians and 100 Caucasian) patients were analyzed for treatment-related toxicities. During the four cycles of TC, Asians had a significantly higher rate of grade ≥2 neutropenia than Caucasians (45.7% vs 6.0%; P <0.001) and significantly more grade ≥3 neutropenia events were documented (respectively 30.7% vs 4.0%, P <0.001). The prophylactic use of G-CSF was similar; 26.0% in Asians and 28.0% in Caucasian ( P = 0.764). There were no differences in nonhematological toxicities. No significant difference in disease-free survival was observed between Asians and Caucasians (log-rank P = 0.910). Conclusions Ethnic differences in toxicity profile exist between Asian and Caucasian patients given adjuvant TC. Over 30% Asians but less than 5% Caucasians experienced grade ≥3 neutropenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of this study were to assess sensory recovery and impact on life quality after tongue reconstruction of oncological defects using different flap types. Thirty-two patients who underwent tongue reconstruction for oncological defects 9·3 months after surgery with non-innervated radial forearm free flaps ( RFFFs) ( N = 16), non-innervated anterolateral thigh free flaps ( ALTFFs) ( N = 8) and nasolabial island flaps ( NLIFs) ( N = 8), and 20 age- and gender-matched healthy controls participated in the study. The modalities assessed were cold detection threshold, warm detection threshold ( WDT), cold pain threshold, heat pain threshold ( HPT), mechanical detection threshold ( MDT), mechanical pain threshold ( MPT) and the Chinese version of Oral Health Impact Profile-49. ALTFFs was significantly more sensitive than RFFFs ( P = 0·005) and NLIFs ( P = 0·014) for WDT, and showed a better sensory recovery than RFFFs for HPT ( P = 0·011). ALTFFs and NLIFs showed significantly better sensory recovery than RFFFs for MDT ( P < 0·005). NLIFs showed the best sensory recovery for MPT, followed by ALTFFs and lastly RFFFs ( P = 0·004). NLIFs also showed the least impact on quality of life measures related to psychological discomfort compared to RFFFs and ALTFFs ( P < 0·019). All modalities of sensory recovery in RFFFs did not depend on gender and post-operative radiotherapy ( P > 0·05). Different flaps for tongue reconstruction of oncological defects appear to have different patterns of sensory recovery and impact on quality of life measures. A longer follow-up period and larger number of participants will be needed in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temperate insects have evolved diapause, a period of programmed developmental arrest during specific life stages, to survive unfavourable conditions. During the diapause preparation phase (DPP), diapause-destined individuals generally store large amounts of fat by regulating nutrition distribution for the energy requirement during diapause maintenance and postdiapause development. Although nutritional patterns during the DPP have been investigated at physiological and biochemical levels in many insects, it remains largely unknown how nutritional metabolism is regulated during the DPP at molecular levels. We used RNA sequencing to compare gene expression profiles of adult female cabbage beetles Colaphellus bowringi during the preoviposition phase (POP) and the DPP. Most differentially expressed genes were involved in specific metabolic pathways during the DPP. Genes related to lipid and carbohydrate metabolic pathways were clearly highly expressed during the DPP, whereas genes related to protein metabolic pathways were highly expressed during the POP. Hormone challenge and RNA interference experiments revealed that juvenile hormone via its nuclear receptor methoprene-tolerant mediated the expression of genes associated with nutritional metabolism during the DPP. This work not only sheds light on the mechanisms of diapause preparation, but also provides new insights into the molecular basis of environmental plasticity in insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenolic compounds are essential components of the defensive chemical arsenal of conifer trees. This chemically diverse group encompasses stilbenoids, flavonoids, isoflavonoids, proanthocyanidins and lignans. All of them are produced from the common precursors, CoA esters of the phenylpropanoids: p-coumaroyl-CoA, cinnamoyl-CoA, caffeoyl-CoA and feruloyl-CoA. Two classes of enzymes, stilbene synthases and chalcone synthases, play important roles in the biosynthesis of plant phenolics, such as the conversion of the phenylpropanoid-CoA esters into stilbenoids and flavonoids, respectively. In this study, we investigated the transcriptional responses of the Scots pine ( Pinus sylvestris) genes encoding stilbene and chalcone synthases to the infection by the fungal pathogen Heterobasidion annosum. The experiments were performed on pine seedlings and mature trees. Our results show that the stilbene synthase gene is strongly induced in both age groups, but the level of induction in adult trees varied considerably among individual trees. Systemic induction in needles and hypocotyl regions was documented in young seedlings following fungal inoculation in root region. Concurrent changes in the expression of the chalcone synthase gene in response to fungal infection were much less pronounced. Our data confirm previous observations on the differential regulation of these enzymes in Scots pine and emphasize the role of stilbene synthase in the induced response to fungal infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To evaluate the in vitro biocompatibility of iRoot FS (Innovative BioCeramix Inc., Vancouver, BC, Canada) and to compare its performance with those of iRoot BP Plus (Innovative BioCeramix Inc.) and ProRoot mineral trioxide aggregate ( MTA; Dentsply Tulsa Dental, Tulsa, OK, USA). Methodology MC3T3-E1 cells were cultured for 1, 2 and 3 days in various dilutions of iRoot FS, iRoot BP Plus and MTA extracts after 7 days of setting to assess cell viability using a cell counting kit-8 (Dojindo, Kumamoto, Japan). The cell apoptosis induced by the set material extracts was evaluated through annexin V-propidium iodide flow cytometry. Changes in the cytoskeletal organization and stress fibres were observed through immunofluorescence by labelling the fibrous actin and nuclei of the cells. Cell attachment was observed under a scanning electron microscope after the MC3T3-E1 cells were cultured on the surface of a material disc set for 1 day. The data were analysed using one-way anova. Results iRoot FS extracts induced higher cell viability than the control extracts ( P < 0.05) at levels comparable to those of iRoot BP Plus and MTA. Compared with the control group, iRoot FS did not promote cell apoptosis. Stretched stress fibres and cytoskeletons were detected in the cells treated with iRoot FS extracts. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the MC3T3-E1 cells attached to iRoot FS appeared flatter and exhibited better stretch than those attached to the other extracts. Conclusions iRoot FS displayed in vitro biocompatibility with MC3T3-E1 cells by promoting cellular proliferation and attachment without causing cell apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Induction of labour has become an increasingly common procedure. Ripening methods, including mechanical devices and pharmacological agents, improve the success rate of labour induction.Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of the double-balloon catheter with prostaglandin E2 agents used for labour induction.Search Strategy: We searched electronic sources from MEDLINE, Embase and Web of Science, the Cochrane Library Database of Systematic Reviews, and ClinicalTrials.gov website.Selection Criteria: Only randomised controlled trials comparing the PGE2 agents with the double-balloon catheter for cervical ripening and labour induction in women with unfavourable cervices were included in the analysis.Data Collection and Analysis: The main outcomes included the vaginal delivery rate within 24 hours and risk of caesarean section. We calculated relative risks and mean differences using fixed- and random-effects models.Main Results: Nine studies (1866 patients) were included in this systematic review. Both the double-balloon catheter and PGE2 agents were comparable with regard to rate of caesarean section (RR 0.92; 95% CI 0.79, 1.07), vaginal delivery within 24 hours (RR 0.95; 95% CI 0.78, 1.16) and maternal adverse events, but the risk of excessive uterine activity (RR 10.02; 95% CI 3.99, 25.17) and need for neonatal intensive care unit admissions (RR 1.31; 95% CI 1.01, 1.69) were significantly increased in women who received PGE2 agents.Conclusions: The double-balloon catheter demonstrated greater safety and cost-effectiveness than PGE2 agents for cervical ripening and labour induction. The efficacy profiles of both methods were similar.Tweetable Abstract: Double-balloon catheter versus prostaglandin E2 for cervical ripening and labour induction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One hundred and fifty 7-day-old Arbor Acres broilers were randomly assigned into five groups: group 1 served as a control that was fed a basal diet without selenium (Se) supplementation; groups 2, 3 and 4 were fed the basal diet supplemented with 0.15, 0.5 and 1.5 mg Se as Se-enriched Saccharomyces cerevisiae ( SSC) per kg of diet; and group 5 was fed the basal diet supplemented with 0.15 mg per kg of Se as sodium selenite ( SS). Growth performance, glutathione peroxidase ( GPX) and superoxide dismutase ( SOD) activities, total antioxidant capacity (T- AOC), and malondialdehyde ( MDA) content in plasma and liver, and cellular glutathione peroxidase ( GPX-1) and phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidase ( GPX-4) mRNA levels in liver were determined. Compared with group 1, groups 2-4 exhibited higher body weights (p < 0.05), lower feed/gain ratios, and higher GPX activities in plasma (p < 0.05) and GPX and SOD activities and GPX-1 and GPX-4 mRNA levels in liver (p < 0.05). Compared with group 5, group 2 exhibited higher GPX activity in plasma on day 21 (p < 0.05). Compared with group 2 and 5, group 3 exhibited lower MDA content in plasma on day 7 (p < 0.05), higher GPX activity in plasma, SOD activity and GPX-1 mRNA levels in liver on day 14 and 21 (p < 0.05), and higher GPX-4 mRNA levels on day 14 (p < 0.05). Compared with group 4, group 3 exhibited lower MDA contents in plasma on day 14 (p < 0.05) and in liver on day 21 (p < 0.05), higher T- AOC in plasma and higher GPX-1 mRNA levels on day 14 and 21 (p < 0.05), and higher SOD activity in plasma and higher SOD and GPX activities in liver on day 21 (p < 0.05). Thus, SSC improves growth and antioxidant status of broilers; the short-term bioavailability of SS was faster than that of SSC, but the long-term bioavailability of SSC was greater than SS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Amelogenin proteins are the major constituent of developing extracellular enamel matrix and are believed to have an exclusively epithelial origin. Recent studies have suggested that amelogenins might induce the differentiation and maturation of various cells, including cementoblast lineage cells. However, the residues comprising the active site of amelogenin remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to identify the active site region of amelogenin by studying the effects of amelogenin fragments on the osteogenic differentiation of cementoblasts. Material and Methods Amelogenin fragments lacking the C-terminus (rh163) and N-terminus (rh128) and a fragment consisting of the C-terminal region of rh174 (C11 peptide) were synthesized and purified. Human cementoblast lineage cells were cultured in osteogenic differentiation medium and treated with 0, 10, 100 or 1000 ng/mL of rh163, rh128 or C11 peptide. The mRNA levels of bone markers were examined by real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. Alkaline phosphatase activity and calcium deposition were also determined. Mineralization was evaluated by alizarin red staining. Results The osteogenic differentiation of human cementoblast lineage cells was significantly enhanced by treatment with rh128 or C11 peptide, whereas rh163 had no significant effect as compared with untreated controls. Conclusions The C-terminus of amelogenin promotes the osteogenic differentiation of human cementoblast lineage cells, indicating the possible utility of C11 peptide in periodontal tissue regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the influence of maxillary impacted canines on the root morphology of adjacent premolars in a Chinese population. Subjects and Methods A sample of 370 Chinese subjects with maxillary canine impaction and 370 control subjects were collected in this study. CBCT data of all subjects were collected and analyzed. The prevalence of separate-rooted maxillary premolars was compared between subjects with and without impacted canines. Then, the prevalence of separate-rooted maxillary premolars was compared between subjects with buccal canine impaction ( BIC) and those with palatal impaction ( PIC). Results The prevalence of separate-rooted first premolars was significantly higher in the canine impaction group ( P = 0.046), but the prevalence of separate-rooted second premolars was not different ( P = 0.780). Furthermore, a significant higher prevalence of first premolar root separation was found on the impacted site in the BIC subgroup ( P < 0.001), but not in the PIC subgroup ( P = 0.508). Also, the prevalence of separate-rooted first premolars in the BIC subgroup was significantly higher than that of the control group ( P = 0.008), but not so for the PIC subgroup ( P = 0.097). Conclusions Buccally impacted maxillary canines are associated with an increased prevalence of root separation in the adjacent maxillary first premolars. This is likely because that buccally impacted canines encroach on the space needed for root development of the first premolars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To examine the effects of plastic film removal on grain yield and soil organic matter ( SOM), a spring maize ( Zea may L.) field experiment was conducted for 5 yr at Changwu Agricultural and Ecological Experimental Station of Northwest China. Compared with traditional plastic film mulching during entire growing stages ( FM), plastic film removal at the silking stage ( RM) resulted in a 6.3% higher average maize yield. Under the RM treatment, soil organic carbon and total nitrogen significantly increased after the 5-yr cultivation in the 0- to 20-cm layer. Significant increases in extractable organic C ( EOC), KMnO4-oxidizable C ( KMnO4-C) and C management index ( CMI) in the 0- to 20-cm layer, and light fraction organic C and EOC in the 20- to 40-cm layer were observed in response to plastic film removal after the 1-yr treatment; the responses were more significant after 5 yr. Under the RM treatment, significant increases in microbial biomass C, light fraction organic N, extractable organic N, KMnO4-C and CMI were also observed after five years in the 20- to 40-cm layer. Moreover, KMnO4-C and EOC were much more sensitive than other labile SOM fractions to the application of RM, even after only 1 yr of cultivation. Therefore, compared with mulching for the whole growing season, plastic film removal at the maize silking stage is an effective option for increasing yields and enhancing SOM concentration and soil sustainability in the regions with semiarid monsoon climates that have sufficient rainfall during maize reproductive stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the predictors of pregnancy outcome for infertile couples attending in vitro fertilisation ( IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection ( ICSI) programmes. Infertile couples attending IVF or ICSI procedures were included in this study. Related data including semen parameters and male and female age and body mass index were collected and analysed. The main outcome was clinical pregnancy, defined as an ultrasound detection of foetal heartbeat 6 weeks after embryo transfer. A total of 1316 couples who underwent IVF and 266 who underwent ICSI were recruited for this study. A multivariate logistic regression with likelihood ratio test revealed the following predictors of pregnancy outcome: female age and sperm DNA fragmentation index ( DFI) and acrosomal activity in IVF procedures (chi-square of likelihood ratio = 26.42, d.f. = 3, P < 0.005) and female age and DFI in ICSI procedures (chi-square of likelihood ratio = 18.88, d.f. = 2, P < 0.005). In conclusion, our study indicated that sperm DFI, female age and acrosomal levels have a significant effect on ART pregnancy outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contents The consistent failure to isolate bona fide pluripotent cell lines from livestock indicates that the underlying mechanisms of early lineage specification are poorly defined. Unlike other species, the contrivances of segregation have been comprehensively studied in the mouse. In mouse, FGF/ MAPK signalling pathway dictates the segregation of hypoblast (primitive endoderm). However, it is not evident whether this mechanism is also conserved in livestock. Here, in this study, we examined the roles of FGF/ MAP kinase signalling pathways in porcine parthenogenetic embryos during the early development. Porcine parthenogenetic embryos were cultured in the medium addition with FGFR inhibitor BGJ398 (10 μ m) or DEMOS. Pluripotency- and lineage-related gene expressions in the early porcine embryos were determined. Compared to control, total cell numbers on day 7 were significantly higher (55 ± 5.96 vs 47 ± 1.97, p < 0.05) in embryos cultured in the presence of BGJ398, but had no significant effect on the rate of blastocyst development (47% vs 44%, p > 0.05). Nonetheless, BGJ398 treatment significantly augmented the expression of pluripotency and trophoblast marker genes ( SOX2, OCT4, KLF4 and CDX2), but did not significantly change the expression of NANOG and hypoblast marker gene ( GATA4). Furthermore, the addition of FGF signalling agonist ( FGF2) during the embryo development significantly decreased the expression of pluripotency and trophoblast marker genes ( SOX2, NANOG, KLF4 and CDX2), but no significant effect on the expression of OCT4 and GATA4 was observed. Here, we exhibit that inhibition of FGF signalling could improve the quality of the porcine embryo and escalate the chance to capture pluripotency. Besides, it also promotes the trophoblast development of porcine parthenogenetic embryo. In addition, the data suggested that FGF signalling pathway is dispensable for the segregation of hypoblast and epiblast lineages in porcine embryo during the early development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a consensus problem is studied for a group of second-order nonlinear heterogeneous agents with non-uniform time delay in communication links and uncertainty in agent dynamics. We design a class of novel decentralized control protocols for the consensus problem whose solvability is converted into stability analysis of an associated closed-loop system with uncertainty and time delay. Using an explicitly constructed Lyapunov functional, the stability conditions or the solvability conditions of the consensus problem are given in terms of a set of linear matrix inequalities apart from a small number of scalar parameters that appear nonlinearly. Furthermore, the linear matrix inequalities are theoretically verified to be solvable when the communication delay is sufficiently small. The effectiveness of the proposed control protocol is illustrated by numerical examples. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface replication method was utilized to monitor the small fatigue crack initiation and growth process of single-edge-notch tension specimens fabricated by nickel base superalloy GH4169. Three different stress levels were selected. Results showed that small fatigue cracks of nickel base superalloy GH4169 initiated from grain boundaries or surface inclusions. The small fatigue crack initiation and growth stages took up about 80-90% of the total fatigue life. Multiple major cracks were observed in the notch root, and specimen with more major cracks seemed to have smaller fatigue life under the same test conditions. At the early growth stage, small crack behaviour might be strongly influenced by microstructures; thus, the crack growth rates had high fluctuations. However, the stress level effect on the small fatigue crack growth rates was not distinguishable for the three different stress levels. And no clear differences were found among the crack initiation lives by using replication technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]