bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross‐sectional study of the sperm quality in semen samples from spinal cord injured men after long‐term cryopreservation
Authors: Krebs J. , Göcking K. , Kissling‐Niggli M. , Pannek J.
Published: February 2015

The deterioration of semen quality occurs very early after spinal cord injury (SCI). Thus, routine cryopreservation of semen early after injury has been recommended. However, there is currently a lack of data concerning the effects of long‐term cryopreservation on the quality of spermatozoa from SCI men. We have therefore investigated the quality of spermatozoa from SCI men before and after long‐term cryopreservation. The semen cryobank of a SCI rehabilitation center was screened for samples with a storage duration of more than 3 years, to carry out a cross‐sectional study regarding the sperm quality of semen samples from SCI men. Semen quality analysis was carried out according to the WHO‐Guidelines. The quality of 28 semen samples from 16 SCI men was investigated prior to and a median 11 years (95% CI 7–13 years) after cryopreservation. Prior to cryopreservation, ejaculate volume (median = 1.7 mL, 95% CI 1–3 mL) and sperm concentration (median = 106 × 106/mL, 95% CI 82–132 × 106/mL) were within normal limits, but total sperm motility (median = 19%, 95% CI 13–22%) and viability (median = 27%, 95% CI 19–45%) were reduced. Cryopreservation resulted in a significant (p < 0.0001) decrease in total sperm motility (median = 2.5%, 95% CI 0–4%) and viability (median = 7%, 95% CI 6–13%). There were no significant (p = 0.75) differences between the semen parameters of samples collected early (up to 3 weeks) after SCI and those collected later. Complete SCI had a significantly (p < 0.0001) negative effect on the sperm viability of the fresh semen samples, and tetraplegia had a significantly (p < 0.035) negative effect on both pre‐cryopreservation sperm viability and post‐cryopreservation motility. The assisted ejaculation technique had no significant (p > 0.053) effect on semen quality. Long‐term cryopreservation of semen from SCI men results in essentially immotile sperm with minimal viability. Thus, routine long‐term cryobanking of semen harvested early after SCI cannot be recommended.
Systematic review with meta‐analysis: infliximab and immunosuppressant therapy vs. infliximab alone for active ulcerative colitis
Authors: Christophorou D. , Funakoshi N. , Duny Y. , Valats J.‐C. , Bismuth M. , Pineton De Chambrun G. , Daures J.‐P. , Blanc P.
Published: February 2015

Background

The benefit of the combination of infliximab (IFX) and immunosuppressant (IS) therapy is debated in ulcerative colitis (UC).

Aims

To determine whether the combination of IFX and IS therapy is more effective than infliximab alone for active UC regardless of prior IS use.

Methods

We identified all controlled trials including patients with moderate‐to‐severe active UC, treated by either IFX or combined IFX‐IS therapy. The main outcome was clinical remission at 4–6 months. Two statistical methods were used, Mantel‐Haenszel and Der‐Simonian and Laird. Inter‐trial heterogeneity was taken into account and publication bias was assessed.

Results

Four controlled trials were analysed and included in the meta‐analysis. These four trials included 765 patients, 389 treated with IFX alone and 376 treated with IFX and IS. At 4–6 months' therapy, the clinical remission rate was significantly lower for the IFX monotherapy group OR 0.50, 95% CI [0.34–0.73], P < 0.01 (P‐heterogeneity = 0.49). The Harbord test did not show evidence of publication bias (P = 0.29). Calculation of an adjusted OR using the Duval and Tweedie method did not significantly modify results [OR 0.63, 95% CI (0.47–0.85)]. According to Orwin's formula, four additional medium‐sized nonsignificant studies would be necessary to reduce the effect size to a nonsignificant value. At 12 months of therapy, there was no significant difference between the two groups: OR 0.60, 95% CI [0.17–2.06], P = 0.41 (P‐heterogeneity = 0.01).

Conclusion

Combination therapy with IFX‐IS is more effective than IFX alone for achieving and maintaining clinical remission at 4–6 months for patients with moderate‐to‐severe ulcerative colitis, regardless of prior IS use.
Current status of a randomized controlled trial examining laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer in Japan
Authors: Katai Hitoshi
Published: February 2015

More than 20 years after the introduction of laparoscopic gastrectomy, two ongoing, large‐scale randomized controlled trials are currently being conducted in Japan: JCOG0912 for patients with stage I disease and JLSSG0901 for patients with advanced cancer. Both trials are designed to evaluate the non‐inferiority of laparoscopic‐assisted distal gastrectomy to its open counterpart. The primary end‐point of JCOG0912 is overall survival, whereas that of JLSSG0901 is relapse‐free survival. Quality control for the surgeries is being strictly performed in each study; eligibility criteria apply to participating surgeons and a central review of the surgical procedure has been conducted. The accrual of patients for JCOG0912 and for JLSSG0901 (phase II) is complete, and the disclosure of level I evidence is being awaited.
Phenotypic plasticity and karyotype conservation in allopatric populations of Astyanax aff. fasciatus (Teleostei, Characiformes) at the Upper Paraná river basin
Authors: Pazza Rubens , Argento Rayra F. M. , Mariano Igor H. S. , Kavalco Karine F.
Published: February 2015

Genus Astyanax is known by its wide genetic and morphological diversity. Among the South America's fish, it is one of the most studied groups and with greatest number of characterized population. At the present work, the combined approach of morphological and genetic data analysis was applied. Cytogenetic and morphometric studies were performed in populations of Astyanax aff. fasciatus originating from Paranaíba river and São João river, both from the hydrographic basin of Paranaíba river. Fish originating from a third place at the Mogi‐Guaçu river (Tietê river's basin) and with 2n = 46 chromosomes also went through morphometric analysis. The morphologic data evidenced the populational structuring, following the geographical distribution of the subjects. Cytogenetic data disclosed the same diploid number and karyotype formula for both populations. The other cytogenetic markers comply with the literature. These data show that the two populations of A. aff. fasciatus do not differ among themselves concerning the chromosomal structure, but they structure themselves regarding morphometry. Aspects of evolution of the group are discussed facing this study.
Efficacy of a non‐drinking mental simulation intervention for reducing student alcohol consumption
Authors: Conroy Dominic , Sparks Paul , de Visser Richard
Published: February 2015

Objectives

To assess the impact of a mental simulation intervention designed to reduce student alcohol consumption by asking participants to imagine potential positive outcomes of and/or strategic processes involved in not drinking during social occasions.

Design

English university students aged 18–25 years (n = 211, Mage  = 20 years) were randomly allocated to one of four intervention conditions. The dependent variables were weekly alcohol consumption, heavy episodic drinking (HED) frequency and frequency of social occasions at which participants did not drink alcohol when others were drinking alcohol (‘episodic non‐drinking’). Measures of alcohol‐related prototypes (i.e., prototypical non‐drinker, prototypical regular drinker) were used to compute sociability prototype difference scores as a potential mediator of any intervention effects. All measures were taken at baseline and at 2‐ and 4‐week follow‐up.

Methods

Participants completed one of four exercises involving either imagining positive outcomes of non‐drinking during a social occasion (outcome condition); imagining strategies required for non‐drinking during a social occasion (process condition); imagining both positive outcomes and required strategies (combined condition); or completing a drinks diary task (control condition).

Results

Latent growth curve analyses revealed a more substantial rate of decrease in weekly unit consumption and HED frequency among outcome condition and process condition participants, relative to control condition participants. Non‐significant differences were found between the combined condition and the control condition. Across the whole sample, an inverted U‐shape trend indicated an initial increase in episodic non‐drinking before it returned to baseline levels.

Conclusion

This study provides preliminary evidence that mental simulation interventions focused on non‐drinking can successfully promote behaviour change.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

UK drinking recommendations advise two ‘dry days’ per week (NHS, 2014).

Benefits of, and strategies involved in, social non‐drinking exist (Conroy & de Visser, 2014).

Mental simulation interventions may help reduce student drinking (Hagger, Lonsdale, & Chatzisarantis, 2012; Hagger, Lonsdale, Koka et al., 2012).

What does this study add?

Demonstrates efficacy of a novel ‘non‐drinking’ mental simulation exercise.

Suggests that healthier alcohol prototypes can be encouraged via a health promotion intervention.

Shows potential utility of ‘episodic non‐drinking’ as an indicator of health‐adherent drinking.
Progression of Seed‐Induced Aβ Deposition within the Limbic Connectome
Authors: Ye Lan , Hamaguchi Tsuyoshi , Fritschi Sarah K. , Eisele Yvonne S. , Obermüller Ulrike , Jucker Mathias , Walker Lary C.
Published: February 2015

An important early event in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the aberrant polymerization and extracellular accumulation of amyloid‐β peptide (Aβ). In young transgenic mice expressing the human Aβ‐precursor protein (APP), deposits of Aβ can be induced by the inoculation of minute amounts of brain extract containing Aβ aggregates (“Aβ seeds”), indicative of a prion‐like seeding phenomenon. Moreover, focal intracerebral injection of Aβ seeds can induce deposits not only in the immediate vicinity of the injection site, but, with time, also in distal regions of the brain. However, it remains uncertain whether the spatial progression of Aβ deposits occurs via nonsystematic diffusion from the injection site to proximal regions or via directed transit along neuroanatomical pathways. To address this question, we analyzed the spatiotemporal emergence of Aβ deposits in two different APP‐transgenic mouse models that had been previously inoculated with Aβ seeds into the hippocampal formation. The results revealed a specific, neuroanatomically constrained pattern of induced Aβ deposits in structures corresponding to the limbic connectome, supporting the hypothesis that neuronal pathways act as conduits for the movement of proteopathic agents among brain regions, thereby facilitating the progression of disease.
Where to Live? How Morphology and Evolutionary History Predict Microhabitat Choice by Tropical Tadpoles
Authors: Marques Nubia S. , Nomura Fausto
Published: February 2015

Tadpoles have diverse morphologies and occupy diverse habitats. The morphological differences between tadpoles can be represented by linear and geometric measurements and used to explain the organization of tadpole assemblages. However, the effects of evolutionary history must be isolated from the morphological differences before we can determine which patterns result from the use and sharing of common ecological resources. Here, we aimed to determine how morphological similarities and phylogenetic distances affect microhabitat choice by tadpoles. We analyzed the tadpoles of 101 anuran species and classified them according to ecomorphological guild, habitat use, position in the water column, and floor substrate. We used geometric and traditional morphometric approaches to describe the morphological variation among tadpoles and calculated the patristic distance for each species. Afterwards, we used morphometric and phylogenetic matrices as predictors of the variance in the ecological matrix, using a partial redundancy analysis. When we used traditional morphometric data, phylogeny explained a large amount of the ecological variation. By contrast, when we used geometric morphometric data, morphology and phylogeny explained similar amounts of the ecological variation, showing that the technique used to extract morphological variation affects the results. We provide evidence that both morphology, as a surrogate for contemporary factors, and evolutionary inertia are important in determining the behavior of tadpoles. Thus, niche conservatism can be important in modeling the behavior of tadpoles, but does not explain all the preferences of tadpoles.
Downregulation of TPTE2P1 Inhibits Migration and Invasion of Gallbladder Cancer Cells
Authors: Lv Wenjie , Wang Lei , Lu Jianhua , Mu Jiasheng , Liu Yingbin , Dong Ping
Published: February 2015

Human gallbladder cancer is a rare malignancy disease but having poor prognosis over the world. Previous studies have put forward that PTEN is a tumour suppressor in regulating many cellular processes, similar activities have been observed for its mammal homologue TPTE2. In this study, we attempted to unravel the underlying mechanistic basis of the role of TPTE2 and its pseudogene TPTE2P1 in gallbladder cancer. We employed lentivirus‐mediated RNA interference as an efficient tool to silence endogenous TPTE2P1 transcription in the gallbladder cancer cell line GBC‐SD/M. The effects of TPTE2P1 on cell migration and invasion were determined by transwell assays. We figured that depletion of TPTE2P1 remarkably inhibited gallbladder cancer cell migration and invasion capacity in vitro and elevated the expression of β‐catenin via epithelial–mesenchymal transition signalling. Our findings revealed the functional role of TPTE2P1 in human gallbladder cancer and suggested that TPTE2P1 could serve as a promising therapeutic target and a palliation option in human gallbladder cancer.
Probing the Conformational Dynamics of the Bioactive Peptide TLQP‐21 in Solution: A Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: Chakraborty Sandipan , Akhter Shamim , Requena Jesús R. , Basu Soumalee
Published: February 2015

VGF‐derived peptide, TLQP‐21, is a physiologically active neuropeptide exhibiting important roles in energy expenditure and balance, gastric contractility, reproduction, pain modulation, and stress. Although the physiological functions of the peptide constitute a research area of considerable interest, structural information is clearly lacking. Here, using extensive 550 nanoseconds molecular dynamics simulation in explicit water model, we have explored the folding energy landscape of the peptide. Principal component analysis and cluster analysis have been used to identify highly populated conformational states of the peptide in solution. The most populated structure of the peptide adopts a highly compact globular form stabilized by several hydrogen‐bonding interactions and π‐cationic interactions. Strong surface complementarity of hydrophobic residues allows tighter spatial fit of the residues within the core region of the peptide. Our simulation also predicts that the peptide is highly flexible in solution and that the region A7‐R9 and three C‐terminal residues, P19‐R21, possess strong helical propensity.
Nonpharmacological interventions aimed at modifying health and behavioural outcomes for adults with asthma: a critical review
Authors: Yorke J. , Fleming S. , Shuldham C. , Rao H. , Smith H.E.
Published: February 2015

Evidence suggests that living with asthma is linked with psychological and behavioural factors including self‐management and treatment adherence, and therefore, there is a reasonable hypothesis that nonpharmacological treatments may improve health outcomes in people living with this condition. A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of nonpharmacological interventions for adults with asthma was designed. Databases searched included The Cochrane Airways Group Register of trials, CENTRAL and Psychinfo. The literature search was conducted until May 2014. Twenty‐three studies met the inclusion criteria and were organized into four groups: relaxation‐based therapies (n = 9); mindfulness (n = 1), biofeedback techniques (n = 3); cognitive behavioural therapies (CBT) (n = 5); and multicomponent interventions (n = 5). A variety of outcome measures were used, even when trials belonged to the same grouping, which limited the ability to conduct meaningful meta‐analyses. Deficiencies in the current evidence base, notably trial heterogeneity, means that application to clinical practice is limited and clear guidelines regarding the use of nonpharmacological therapies in asthma is limited. Relaxation and CBT, however, appear to have a consistent positive effect on asthma‐related quality of life and some psychological outcomes, and lung function (relaxation only). Future trials should be informed by previous work to harmonize the interventions under study and outcome measures used to determine their effectiveness; only then will meaningful meta‐analyses inform clinical practice.
Immune deficiency: changing spectrum of pathogens
Authors: Duraisingham S S , Manson A , Grigoriadou S , Buckland M , Tong C Y W , Longhurst H J
Published: February 2015

Current UK national standards recommend routine bacteriology surveillance in severe antibody-deficient patients, but less guidance exists on virology screening and viral infections in these patients. In this retrospective audit, we assessed the proportion of positive virology or bacteriology respiratory and stool samples from patients with severe, partial or no immune deficiency during a 2-year period. Medical notes were reviewed to identify symptomatic viral infections and to describe the course of persistent viral infections. During the 2-year period, 31 of 78 (39·7%) severe immune-deficient patients tested had a positive virology result and 89 of 160 (55.6%) had a positive bacteriology result. The most commonly detected pathogens were rhinovirus (12 patients), norovirus (6), Haemophilus influenzae (24), Pseudomonas spp. (22) and Staphylococcus aureus (21). Ninety-seven per cent of positive viral detection samples were from patients who were symptomatic. Low serum immunoglobulin IgA levels were more prevalent in patients with a positive virology sample compared to the total cohort (P = 0·0078). Three patients had persistent norovirus infection with sequential positive isolates for 9, 30 and 16 months. Virology screening of symptomatic antibody-deficient patients may be useful as a guide to anti-microbial treatment. A proportion of these patients may experience persistent viral infections with significant morbidity.
Activation of the alternative pathway of complement during the acute phase of typical haemolytic uraemic syndrome
Authors: Ferraris J R , Ferraris V , Acquier A B , Sorroche P B , Saez M S , Ginaca A , Mendez C F
Published: February 2015

Haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS) is characterized by haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia and acute renal failure. We studied the activation state of classical and alternative pathways of complement during the acute phase of Shiga toxin-associated HUS by performing a prospective study of 18 patients and 17 age-matched healthy controls to evaluate C3, C3c, C4, C4d, Bb and SC5b-9 levels. SC5b-9 levels were increased significantly in all patients at admission compared to healthy and end-stage renal disease controls, but were significantly higher in patients presenting with oliguria compared to those with preserved diuresis. C3 and C4 levels were elevated significantly at admission in the non-oliguric group when compared to controls. No significant differences were found for C4d values, whereas factor Bb was elevated in all patients and significantly higher in oliguric patients when compared to both controls and non-oliguric individuals. A positive and significant association was detected when Bb formation was plotted as a function of plasma SC5b-9 at admission. Bb levels declined rapidly during the first week, with values not significantly different from controls by days 3 and 5 for non-oligurics and oligurics, respectively. Our data demonstrate the activation of the alternative pathway of complement during the acute phase of Stx-associated HUS. This finding suggests that complement activation may represent an important trigger for the cell damage that occurs during the syndrome.
Ethical considerations of population screening for late‐onset genetic disease
Authors: Golden‐Grant K. , Merritt J.L. , Scott C.R.
Published: February 2015

Population‐based genetic screening has been a mainstay of public health in the United States for many years. The goal of genetic screening is to identify individuals at increased risk for treatable diseases. The evolution of genetic testing to include multi‐disease panels allows for new screening applications which challenge the traditional model of clinical genetics care by the identification of late‐onset disorders in an asymptomatic fetus, child, or adult. We present two unique examples of individuals referred to a biochemical genetics clinic due to the detection of late‐onset Pompe disease by population‐based screening modalities. We review early experiences in counseling and management of pre‐symptomatic individuals and highlight some of the primary ethical factors warranting consideration as we enter the era of genomic medicine.
Agricultural Policy in the 21st Century: Economics and Politics
Authors: Fulton Murray
Published: February 2015

This paper provides a framework for thinking about agricultural policy, why and how it is introduced, and how it changes over time. This framework suggests that agricultural policy will be influenced by both concerns for efficiency and lobbying. While agricultural policy will not always be effective, it will be relatively stable, at least in terms of its broad outlines. Underlying this broad stability, however, will be considerable small‐scale change as program and policy details shift in response to a changing environment. When policy changes in a major way, which it almost always will, the shift will be abrupt—a punctuation. These abrupt changes come as attention is eventually paid to areas and/or issues that are increasingly understood to be not working. While there is considerable room for economic analysis in the policy process, it will not be the main driver; this role belongs to politics—the ability to change the discourse around a policy issue in such a way that different evaluations and interpretations of the policy and its impact are created. Based on the analysis in this paper, it is argued that supply management is more likely to see significant change than business risk management programs, since more attention seems to be currently directed at the former issue. It is also argued that although proponents of local food, organic production, and urban agriculture have had some success at getting attention focused on these issues, this success will not translate into any major policy changes, in part because markets for these products are developing and appear to be working reasonably well.
Characterization of a Synthetic Steroid 24‐keto‐cholest‐5‐en‐3β, 19‐diol as a Neuroprotectant
Authors: Yan Min , Liu Ai‐Ling , Zhou Shu‐Jia , Tang Li‐Peng , Ou Yan‐Qiu , Yin Wei , Chen Xin‐Ying , Su Xing‐Wen , Qiu Peng‐Xin , Huang Yi‐Jun , Zhang Jing‐Xia , Yan Guang‐Mei , Leng Tian‐Dong
Published: February 2015

Background

Neuroactive steroids represent promising candidates for the treatment of neurological disorders. Our previous studies identified an endogenous steroid cholestane‐3β, 5α, 6β‐triol (Triol) as a novel neuroprotectant.

Aim

We aimed to identify a potent candidate for stroke treatment through a screening of Triol analogs.

Methods

Hypoxia‐ and glutamate‐induced neuronal injury models in vitro, middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO)‐induced cerebral ischemia model in vivo, fluorescein diacetate (FDA) for alive and propidium iodide (PI) for dead staining, LDH assay, and calcium imaging techniques were used.

Results

24‐keto‐cholest‐5‐en‐3β, 19‐diol (Diol) showed the most potent neuroprotective effect among the screened structurally related compounds. FDA and PI staining showed that Diol concentration dependently increased the survival rate of cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs) challenged with glutamate or hypoxia, with an effective threshold concentration of 2.5 μM. Consistently, the quantitative LDH release assay showed the same concentration‐dependent protection in both models. Diol, at 10 μM, potently decreased glutamate‐ and hypoxia‐induced LDH release from 51.6 to 18.2% and 62.1 to 21.7%, respectively, which values are close to the normal LDH release (~16–18%). Moreover, we found Diol effectively decreased MCAO‐induced infarction volume in mice from ~23% to 7%, at a dose of 6 mg/kg. We further explored the underlying mechanism and found that Diol attenuated NMDA‐induced intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) increase in cortical neurons, suggesting a negative modulatory effect on NMDA receptor.

Conclusion

Taken together, we identified Diol as a potent neuroprotectant. It may represent a novel and promising neuroprotectant for stroke intervention.
MicroRNA‐29c Correlates with Neuroprotection Induced by FNS by Targeting Both Birc2 and Bak1 in Rat Brain after Stroke
Authors: Huang Li‐Gang , Li Jin‐Pin , Pang Xiao‐Min , Chen Chun‐Yong , Xiang Hui‐Yao , Feng Ling‐Bo , Su Sheng‐You , Li Sheng‐Hua , Zhang Lei , Liu Jing‐Li
Published: February 2015

Aims

Studies showed fastigial nucleus stimulation (FNS) reduced brain damage, but the mechanisms of neuroprotection induced by FNS were not entirely understood; MicroRNAs are noncoding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression in a posttranscriptional manner, but their functional consequence in response to ischemia–reperfusion (IR) remains unknown. We investigated the role of microRNA‐29c in the neuroprotection induced by FNS in rat.

Methods

The IR rat models were conducted 1 day after FNS. Besides, miR‐29c antagomir (or agomir or control) was infused to the left intracerebroventricular 1 day before IR models were conducted. We detected differential expression of Birc2 mRNA (also Bak1mRNA and miR‐29c) level among different groups by RT‐qPCR. The differential expression of Birc2 protein (also Bak1 protein) level among different groups was surveyed via Western blot. The neuroprotective effects were assessed by infarct volume, neurological deficit, and apoptosis.

Results

MiR‐29c was decreased after FNS. Moreover, miR‐29c directly bound to the predicted 3′‐UTR target sites of Birc2 and Bak1 genes. Furthermore, over‐expression of miR‐29c effectively reduced Birc2 (also Bak1) mRNA and protein levels, increased infarct volume and apoptosis, and deteriorated neurological outcomes, whereas down‐regulation played a neuroprotective role.

Conclusions

MiR‐29c correlates with the neuroprotection induced by FNS by negatively regulating Birc2 and Bak1.
A Proposal for the Feasible Exploitation of the Red Swamp Crayfish Procambarus Clarkii in Introduced Regions
Authors: Conde Anxo , Domínguez Jorge
Published: February 2015

The invasive red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii is a human‐mediated introduced species in the Iberian Peninsula. The species was introduced for economic reasons in the south of the Peninsula, but it is currently abundant and widespread in Portugal and Spain. As an invasive species, it is regulated by different laws in the Iberian Peninsula. Thus, although exploitation of this crayfish is permitted by the central government in Spain, the species is subjected to severe restrictions in Portugal. Moreover, regional governments in Spain only allow recreational fishing of P. clarki, except in southern Spain where there is an industrial activity based on the red swamp crayfish. We propose compromise measures in order to reconcile the economic exploitation of this aquatic resource and environmental concerns. The proposal mainly consists of the sale of live male specimens of P. clarkii and of dead (processed) female specimens. Biological invasion resulting in new established populations of P. clarkii in the wild would therefore be impossible. Transformation of P. clarkii into an economic resource with minimum environmental hazard seems feasible.
Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharides regulate functions of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Tang J. , Wu T. , Xiong J. , Su Y. , Zhang C. , Wang S. , Tang Z. , Liu Y.
Published: February 2015

Objectives

Periodontitis is one of the most widespread inflammatory diseases; it causes tooth loss and is also associated with a variety of systemic diseases. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been used to treat periodontitis. However, it is unknown whether bacterial toxins in the periodontal environment affect MSC‐mediated periodontal regeneration. Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharides (Pg‐LPS) are key toxins for development of periodontitis. The purpose of the present study was to investigate effects of P. gingivalis LPS on biological properties of MSCs.

Materials and methods

Mesenchymal stem cells from bone marrow (BMMSCs) were treated with different concentrations of P. gingivalis LPS (0.1–10 μg/ml), then its effects were evaluated on biological properties of BMMSCs including proliferation, apoptosis, osteogenic differentiation and capacities to inhibit activated T cells.

Results

Low concentration of P. gingivalis LPS (0.1 μg/ml) accelerated MSC proliferation, osteogenic differentiation and capacities to inhibit activated T cells via up‐regulation of nitric oxide. However, high concentration of P. gingivalis LPS (10 μg/ml) reduced MSC proliferation, osteogenic differentiation and capacities to inhibit activated T cells.

Conclusions

Mesenchymal stem cells were functionally different following exposure to P. gingivalis LPS at the investigated concentrations. These findings suggest that MSC‐mediated periodontal regeneration may be regulated by P. gingivalis LPS.
Guidelines for sedation in gastroenterological endoscopy
Authors: Obara Katsutoshi , Haruma Ken , Irisawa Atsushi , Kaise Mitsuru , Gotoda Takuji , Sugiyama Masanori , Tanabe Satoshi , Horiuchi Akira , Fujita Naotaka , Ozaki Makoto , Yoshida Masahiro , Matsui Toshiyuki , Ichinose Masao , Kaminishi Michio
Published: February 2015

Recently, the need for sedation in gastrointestinal endoscopy has been increasing. However, the National Health Insurance Drug Price list in Japan does not include any drug specifically used for the sedation. Although benzodiazepines are the main medication, their use in cases of gastrointestinal endoscopy has not been approved. This has led the Japan Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Society to develop the first set of guidelines for sedation in gastrointestinal endoscopy on the basis of evidence‐based medicine in collaboration with the Japanese Society for Anesthesiologists. The present guidelines comprise 14 statements, five of which were judged to be valid on the highest evidence level and three on the second highest level. The guidelines are not intended to strongly recommend the use of sedation for gastrointestinal endoscopy, but rather to indicate the policy as to the choice of appropriate procedures when such sedation is deemed necessary. In clinical practice, the final decision as to the use of sedation should be made by physicians considering patient willingness and physical condition.
Weight‐based hypoglycaemia treatment protocol for adults with Type 1 diabetes: a randomized crossover clinical trial
Authors: McTavish L. , Krebs J. D. , Weatherall M. , Wiltshire E.
Published: February 2015

Aim

To determine whether a weight‐based hypoglycaemia treatment using 0.3 g/kg (or 0.2 g/kg) glucose effectively treats adults with Type 1 diabetes mellitus compared with an internationally recommended 15‐g treatment.

Methods

Patients with frequent hypoglycaemia were recruited from hospital‐based diabetes clinics. The treatment for each hypoglycaemic episode, defined as capillary glucose <4.0 mmol/l, was randomly assigned to one of three protocols: 0.2 g/kg, 0.3 g/kg, or 15 g, using DextroTM glucose tablets (Dextro Energy, Krefeld, Germany). Each participant received each treatment in random order for up to 15 hypoglycaemic episodes. Capillary glucose was re‐tested 10 min after treatment, with a repeat dose if still < 4 mmol/l.

Results

The study recruited 34 participants aged 22–71 years, whose mean (sd) BMI was 25.2 (3.1) kg/m2 and HbA1c 63 (10.4) mmol/mol [7.9 (0.9)%]. Two people withdrew because they did not like the taste of the Dextro tablets and one was excluded because they used their own glucose preparation. Unadjusted for clustering within participants, the mean (sd) capillary glucose after 10 min was 4.67 (1.25) mmol/l for 0.3 g/kg (141 episodes), 4.29 (0.94) mmol/l for 0.2 g/kg (132 episodes), and 4.37(0.99) mmol/l for 15 g (136 episodes). Capillary glucose, adjusted for clusters and baseline, was higher after 10 min for 0.3 g/kg glucose compared with 15 g glucose; a difference of 0.26 (95% CI 0.04–0.48) mmol/l (P = 0.02), but not for 0.2 g/kg; ‐0.07 (95% CI ‐0.29–0.16) mmol/l (P = 0.56). Capillary glucose for only three hypoglycaemic episodes rose above 8 mmol/l.

Conclusions

A weight‐based protocol of 0.3 g/kg glucose appears more effective for treating symptomatic hypoglycaemia in adults with Type 1 diabetes than either the most common current recommendation of 15 g glucose or a 0.2 g/kg glucose dose.
When is rational to order a diagnostic test, or prescribe treatment: the threshold model as an explanation of practice variation
Authors: Djulbegovic Benjamin , van den Ende Jef , Hamm Robert M. , Mayrhofer Thomas , Hozo Iztok , Pauker Stephen G. ,   the International Threshold Working Group (ITWG)
Published: February 2015

Background

The threshold model represents an important advance in the field of medical decision‐making. It is a linchpin between evidence (which exists on the continuum of credibility) and decision‐making (which is a categorical exercise – we decide to act or not act). The threshold concept is closely related to the question of rational decision‐making. When should the physician act, that is order a diagnostic test, or prescribe treatment? The threshold model embodies the decision theoretic rationality that says the most rational decision is to prescribe treatment when the expected treatment benefit outweighs its expected harms. However, the well‐documented large variation in the way physicians order diagnostic tests or decide to administer treatments is consistent with a notion that physicians' individual action thresholds vary.

Methods

We present a narrative review summarizing the existing literature on physicians' use of a threshold strategy for decision‐making.

Results

We found that the observed variation in decision action thresholds is partially due to the way people integrate benefits and harms. That is, explanation of variation in clinical practice can be reduced to a consideration of thresholds. Limited evidence suggests that non‐expected utility threshold (non‐EUT) models, such as regret‐based and dual‐processing models, may explain current medical practice better. However, inclusion of costs and recognition of risk attitudes towards uncertain treatment effects and comorbidities may improve the explanatory and predictive value of theEUT‐based threshold models.

Conclusions

The decision when to act is closely related to the question of rational choice. We conclude that the medical community has not yet fully defined criteria for rational clinical decision‐making. The traditional notion of rationality rooted inEUTmay need to be supplemented by reflective rationality, which strives to integrate all aspects of medical practice – medical, humanistic and socio‐economic – within a coherent reasoning system.
The slow‐growth high‐mortality hypothesis: direct experimental support in a leafmining fly
Authors: UESUGI AKANE
Published: February 2015

1. Based on the slow‐growth high‐mortality (SGHM) hypothesis, which predicts that prolonged larval development increases mortality from their natural enemies, studies have often assumed that low quality of plants that slows larval development would function as a defence against insect herbivores. However, empirical support for the SGHM hypothesis has been limited, especially in natural and ecologically relevant contexts.

2. In a leafminer Amauromyza flavifrons Meigen (Agromyzidae, Diptera), the SGHM hypothesis was tested along with four other hypotheses (e.g. prey size, mine appearance, density‐dependent parasitism, and plant quality hypotheses) to control for spurious associations between development time and parasitism that are primarily driven by other larval traits. Two host plant species, Saponaria officinalis and Silene latifolia, were grown under varying nitrogen levels, and leafminers developing on these plants were exposed to, or protected from, a natural assembly of parasitoids across the entire course of larval development.

3. On both host plant species, leafminers that survived to an adult stage in the presence of parasitoids had a shorter development time than those in the absence of parasitoids, indicating that parasitoids disproportionately kill leafminers with longer larval development. The results provided concrete evidence for the SGHM hypothesis within the natural ecological context for these interacting species. Moreover, reduced plant quality was associated with higher larval mortality on Sa. officinalis only in the presence of parasitoids, suggesting that low quality could function as indirect plant resistance via SGHM under some tri‐trophic interactions.
Examination of lifestyle factors and diseases in teaching periodontology in dental education in the Nordic countries
Authors: Fiehn N.‐E. , Christensen L. B.
Published: February 2015

Introduction

Lifestyle and general diseases are important for the development of periodontitis and other diseases in the oral cavity. Therefore, knowledge on lifestyle factors must be part of the dental curriculum. However, a search for information in the literature databases gave meagre results. The aim of this study was to describe education of lifestyle in relation to diseases in the oral cavity with focus on periodontitis and to elucidate how education is practiced and reflected in dental education in the Nordic countries.

Materials and Methods

A questionnaire, which consisted of 18 questions, was sent to the chairs of the departments of periodontology in the Nordic countries. The questions concerned extent, curriculum structure, educational method, content, assessment and evaluation of the education.

Results

Education on lifestyle factors took place at all dental schools, but the extent, content and placement in the curriculum varied. In some schools, more than 10 lessons were scheduled; two schools had only 3–5 lessons. The education of lifestyle factors was prioritised highest in the departments of periodontology followed by cariology and general health. Despite differences in the content across the dental schools, there were also similarities. So, at all schools smoking, medication, cardiovascular diseases and diabetes type 2 had a high priority. Education of other factors such as alcohol, psychological stress, oral hygiene habits, hypotension and obesity varied.

Conclusion

Despite the general view that understanding of odontology is considered to be rather homogenous in the Nordic countries, the education varies across the dental schools. This variation may inspire dental educators in the future planning dental curricula.
Low‐molecular‐weight organic acids enhance desorption of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from soil
Authors: Ling W. , Sun R. , Gao X. , Xu R. , Li H.
Published: February 2015

The impact of low‐molecular‐weight organic acids (LMWOAs) on desorption of phenanthrene and pyrene as representative polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from a contaminated soil was investigated by using a laboratory batch experiment. Three LMWOAs were used in this study and were citric, oxalic and malic acids. The LMWOAs in aqueous solution promoted desorption of PAHs from soil significantly and demonstrated an increasing trend as the concentration of LMWOAs increased. When compared with desorption of phenanthrene and pyrene from soil to water, the addition of LMWOAs enhanced desorption of test PAHs by up to 285 and 299%, respectively. Among the three LMWOAs studied, citric acid demonstrated the greatest efficiency in promoting PAH desorption from soil. Solutions of LMWOA continuously promoted PAH removal from soil during the multiple cycles of desorption. Overall, the experimental results suggest that LMWOAs in aqueous solution could disrupt soil organic matter (SOM)–metal cation–mineral linkages in soils, resulting in the release of SOM from soil and simultaneous increase of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in solution. The loss of SOM from soil and increase of DOC in solution are responsible for the enhanced PAH desorption from soil. The positive correlation between DOC in solution and desorbed PAHs from soil suggests that the loss of SOM from soil plays an important role in LMWOA‐enhanced desorption of PAHs from soil.
Deep brain stimulation in dystonic cerebral palsy: for whom and for what?
Authors: Cif L.
Published: February 2015

Click here to view the accompanying paper in this issue.
Validation ofIgGcut‐off values and their association with survival in neonatal foals
Authors: Liepman R. S. , Dembek K. A. , Slovis N. M. , Reed S. M. , Toribio R. E.
Published: February 2015

Reasons for performing study

Serum immunoglobulin (IgG) assessment in neonatal foals is considered standard care in equine hospitals to determine immunity and overall health. However, cut‐off values ofIgGto predict complete or partial failure of transfer of passive immunity (FTPI) were developed 30 years ago and are largely empirical with little prospective or statistical data to support their use or association with outcome.

Objectives

To critically evaluate the traditional cut‐off values ofIgGin the assessment ofFTPI(IgG<8 g/l), determine the association between various degrees ofFTPIand likelihood of nonsurvival and examine whetherFTPIcan be predicted by serum total protein (TP), albumin and globulin in hospitalised foals.

Study design

Multicentre, cross‐sectional study.

Methods

We evaluated clinicopathological variables in 597 foals ≤7 days old from 3 equine hospitals including serumIgG, fibrinogen,TPand albumin concentrations. Foals were divided into 3 groups by diagnosis: healthy, sick nonseptic and septic. The aforementioned variables in addition to globulin concentrations were evaluated in a subset of 118 foals. Univariate, multivariate and multinomial logistic regression were used to compute odds ratios for nonsurvival in these foals.

Results

Our findings support use of the traditional cut‐off value of >8 g/l as adequate transfer of passive immunity (ATPI). Odds of nonsurvival increased in proportion to lowerIgGconcentrations. HigherTPconcentrations were associated with lower likelihood ofFTPI; however, higher albumin concentrations were associated with a greater likelihood ofFTPI. A regression equation was created to predictIgGin foals using serum proteins.

Conclusions

SerumIgGvalues of <8 g/l in hospitalised foals were proportionally associated with mortality. We recommend immediate assessment ofIgGconcentrations in hospitalised foals and those withFTPIshould receive prompt immunotherapy.

The summary is available in Chinese – seeSupporting information

See also correspondences by Corley et al.andLiepman et al.
Synaptotagmin I, a molecular target for steroid hormone signaling controlling the maturation of sexual behavior in an insect
Authors: Bozzolan Françoise , Duportets Line , Limousin Denis , Wycke Marie‐Anne , Demondion Elodie , François Adrien , Abrieux Antoine , Debernard Stéphane
Published: February 2015

As in vertebrates, the insect steroid hormones, especially 20‐hydroxyecdysone (20E), initiate and regulate sexual behavior by acting on the central nervous system. This 20E action is, in part, triggered by transcriptional events mediated through the binding of 20E to a heterodimer comprising the ecdysone receptor (EcR) and ultraspiracle (USP). However, to date, our knowledge about this genomic steroid pathway remains incomplete. In moths, males detect female sex pheromones, eliciting stereotyped sexual behavior. In Agrotis ipsilon males, the behavioral response and the neuronal sensitivity to sex pheromone in the olfactory center, the antennal lobe (AL), increase with age. We recently showed that 20E controlled this age‐dependent olfactory plasticity via the activation of an EcR/USP‐dependent pathway in the AL. Here, we cloned the gene encoding A. ipsilon synaptotagmin I (AisytI), a presynaptic vesicle protein known to act as a calcium sensor in neurotransmitter release. AisytI was expressed in the AL, where its amount increased with age, whereas its knockdown inhibited the sex pheromone‐oriented flight of males. 20E administration to males induced AL AisytI expression in a dose‐dependent and time‐dependent manner. Moreover, A. ipsilon EcR silencing caused decreases in AL AisytI expression and the behavioral response to sex pheromone. Our results show that the synaptotagmin I gene is a target gene for the genomic steroid signaling that controls the expression of insect sexual behavior by acting on central sex pheromone processing. This study thus represents a significant advance in our understanding of the steroid actions that influence neural functions, and thereby behavioral plasticity, in various organisms.

Database

The nucleotide sequence of Agrotis ipsilon synaptotagmin I is available in the DDBJ/EMBL/GenBank databases under the accession number KJ863735.
Extreme events in streams and rivers in arctic and subarctic regions in an uncertain future
Authors: Nilsson Christer , Polvi Lina E. , Lind Lovisa
Published: February 2015

We review the predicted changes in extreme events following climate change in flowing waters in arctic and subarctic regions. These regions are characterised by tundra or taiga ecosystems in either erosional or depositional glacial landforms or presently glacierised areas of the Northern Hemisphere.

The ecological and geomorphic effects of extreme meteorological and hydrological events, such as episodes of strongly increased precipitation, temperatures and flows, can be exacerbated by altered base conditions. For example, winter temperature variations between frost and thaw will become more frequent at many places because mean temperature during the winter is closer to 0 °C, potentially leading to changes in the production of ice and intensified disturbance of riparian and aquatic habitats during extreme floods. Additionally, thawing of permafrost and glaciers can lead to increased bank erosion because of thaw slump and glacial outburst floods.

We discuss the abiotic and biotic effects of these and other extreme events, including heavy precipitation, floods, drought and extreme air or water temperatures, and summarise our findings in a model that aims to stimulate further research in this field.