bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety and efficacy of ledipasvir/sofosbuvir with or without ribavirin in hepatitis C genotype 1 patients including those with decompensated cirrhosis who failed prior treatment with simeprevir/sofosbuvir
Authors: Modi A. A. , Nazario H. E. , Gonzales G. R. , Gonzalez S. A.
Published: March 2018

Background

Combination therapy of simeprevir (SIM)/sofosbuvir (SOF) is an approved treatment for hepatitis C genotype (gen) 1 with overall SVR12 rate of 85%‐95%. The single tablet fixed‐dose combination of ledipasvir (LDV)/SOF is also approved for gen 1 with sustained virologic response at 12 weeks (SVR12) rates ≥95%. No data are available on the efficacy of retreatment with LDV/SOF in patients who failed initial treatment with SIM/SOF.

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy of retreatment with LDV/SOF ± ribavirin (RBV) in gen 1 patients who had previously failed treatment with SIM/SOF.

Methods

Data from a combined treatment cohort of 2 hepatology centres, which included patients previously treated with SIM/SOF ± RBV for 12 weeks but failed to achieve SVR and then underwent retreatment with LDV/SOF ± RBV, were analysed (n = 30). LDV/SOF ± RBV was administered for 12‐24 weeks based on the discretion of the treating hepatologist.

Results

Of the 30 patients, 23 (77%) were male, 77% were Caucasian and 26 (87%) were gen 1a. 26 (86%) had cirrhosis, of which 16 (62%) had decompensated, Child's class B or C cirrhosis. Three patients were liver transplant recipients with recurrent hepatitis C. Overall, 27/30 (90%) achieved SVR. Treatment was well tolerated with 37% reporting no adverse events. The most common adverse events were fatigue, headache, insomnia and nausea. Two patients with Child's B cirrhosis required hospitalization during treatment for variceal haemorrhage and abdominal pain respectively. However, no treatment discontinuations or deaths occurred.

Conclusion

Single tablet fixed‐dose combination LDV/SOF ± RBV is efficacious and well tolerated in patients who previously failed treatment with SIM/SOF, including those with decompensated cirrhosis and recurrent hepatitis C following liver transplantation.
Health problems associated with irritable bowel syndrome: analysis of a primary care registry
Authors: Clevers E. , Vaes B. , Henrard S. , Goderis G. , Tack J. , Törnblom H. , Simrén M. , Van Oudenhove L.
Published: March 2018

Background

Associations between irritable bowel syndrome and other health problems have been described, but comprehensive reports are missing, especially in primary care.

Aims

To investigate which health problems are associated with irritable bowel syndrome, how they cluster together and when they are typically diagnosed relative to irritable bowel syndrome.

Methods

We used Intego, a general practice registry in Flanders, Belgium. Patients with an irritable bowel syndrome diagnosis (n = 13 701) were matched with controls without gastrointestinal diagnosis and controls with organic gastrointestinal disease. Long‐term prevalences of 680 symptoms and diagnoses were compared between patients and controls. Results were summarised using functional enrichment analysis and visualised in a network and we calculated incidence rate ratios in the 10 years before and after the irritable bowel syndrome diagnosis for the network's key components.

Results

Various symptoms and infections, but not neoplasms, were enriched in irritable bowel syndrome patients compared to both control groups. We characterised the comorbidities of irritable bowel syndrome as psychosocial health problems, urogenital symptoms and infections, musculoskeletal symptoms and other somatic symptoms. These had a uniform incidence in the years around the irritable bowel syndrome diagnosis, and did not structurally precede or follow irritable bowel syndrome.

Conclusions

Irritable bowel syndrome shares long‐term associations with psychosocial health problems, urogenital symptoms and infections, musculoskeletal symptoms and other somatic symptoms in primary care. Clinicians are encouraged to take comorbidities into account when diagnosing and managing irritable bowel syndrome, as this may have important treatment implications.
Risk factors for diagnostic delay in Crohn's disease and their impact on long‐term complications: how do they differ in a tuberculosis endemic region?
Authors: Banerjee R. , Pal P. , Girish B. G. , Reddy D. N.
Published: March 2018

Background

The diagnosis of Crohn's disease (CD) can be delayed in clinical practice. In tuberculosis endemic areas, empirical anti‐tubercular therapy further delays treatment.

Aim(s)

To assess risk factors for diagnostic delay and its impact on the long‐term complications of Crohn's disease in India where tuberculosis is endemic.

Methods

Data from a large prospectively established inflammatory bowel disease registry were analysed retrospectively. The time from onset of symptoms to diagnosis (diagnostic delay) was calculated and categorised into two groups based on median diagnostic delay. The risk factors for delay including anti‐tubercular therapy were analysed. Logistic regression analysis was done to assess impact of diagnostic delay on development of stenotic and fistular complications including need for surgery.

Results

Seven hundred and twenty Crohn's disease patients (60.3% male, median: 28 years) were included. Main outcome measures were stenosis, fistula and need for surgery. Subjects with diagnostic delay >18 months (median) developed significantly higher stenotic complications and surgery (OR 4.12; 95% CI: 2.74‐6.33, P < 0.001 and OR 2.41, 95% CI: 1.68‐3.42, P < 0.001), respectively, compared to those ≤18 months. There was no difference in the development of fistulous complications. 193/720 (27%) received anti‐tubercular therapy which significantly contributed to diagnostic delay (OR: 2.47; 95% CI: 1.76‐3.47, P < 0.001) with 47% showing initial clinical response (Crohn's disease activity index‐ CDAI decrease >100). Moreover, the incidence of stenotic complications was significantly higher in patients who had received prior anti‐tubercular therapy (55/193 (28.49%) vs 78/527 (14.8%), P < 0.001, OR: 2.60, 95% CI: 1.64‐4.12).

Conclusions

Diagnostic delay in Crohn's disease is associated with significantly higher stenotic complications and need for surgery. Empirical anti‐tubercular therapy is the single largest contributor to diagnostic delay in tuberculosis endemic areas. Despite initial clinical response to anti‐tubercular therapy, long‐term stenotic complications are higher.
Patients’ preoperative background causes gastric stasis after laparoscopy‐assisted pylorus‐preserving gastrectomy
Authors: Nishizawa Nobuyuki , Hosoda Kei , Moriya Hiromitsu , Mieno Hiroaki , Ema Akira , Ushiku Hideki , Ishii Satoru , Tanaka Toshimichi , Washio Marie , Yokoi Keigo , Harada Hiroki , Watanabe Masahiko , Yamashita Keishi
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Despite technical improvements in laparoscopic gastrectomy, gastric stasis is still a serious problem in laparoscopy‐assisted pylorus‐preserving gastrectomy (LAPPG). The aim of this study was to investigate the factors that might cause gastric stasis in LAPPG.

Methods

From April 2004 through November 2012, 85 patients with cT1N0 middle‐third gastric cancer who underwent LAPPG at Kitasato University Hospital; these patients were included in the present study. Infra‐pyloric vein (IPV)‐preserving LAPPG was performed in 41 patients. We compared the rate of gastric stasis in the IPV‐preserving and the IPV–non‐preserving groups, and analyzed the clinicopathological factors that might have caused gastric stasis.

Results

We did not demonstrate that preservation of the IPV could prevent gastric stasis in the early and late postoperative periods. Symptoms of gastric stasis were most frequently recognized 1 year after surgery. A significantly higher proportion of preoperative ASA class 2 patients had gastric stasis than did not (80.0% [12/15] vs 48.6% [34/70], P=0.02). Among the ASA class 2 patients, a significantly greater proportion of those with depressed activities of daily living than those with normal activities of daily living had gastric stasis (66.7% [4/6] vs 20.0% [8/40], P = 0.015).

Conclusions

The clinical significance of the IPV preservation in LAPPG could not be demonstrated. LAPPG should be performed for ASA class 1 patients or those with maintained preoperative activities of daily living.
A Snapshot of the Australian Taxpayer
Authors: Bond David , Wright Anna
Published: March 2018

Using the most recent Australian Taxation Office published data, along with other sources of data, we provide detailed descriptive evidence on the income, deductions and other items (including superannuation) of the individual taxpayer in Australia. We provide these details across tax bracket, occupation, gender and location. In addition, we explore who is accessing negative gearing and by how much, thus contributing to the ongoing debate that surrounds this area of tax law. We show that individuals with a higher taxable income are more likely to access negative gearing, and we provide estimates of how the removal of this deduction would affect federal tax revenue. We discuss other reported areas such as deductions for gifts and donations, as well as providing a discussion on the use and potential use of the government‐provided pre‐filled tax information for individuals. Overall, this study is of interest to academics, government and tax practitioners alike.
Multi‐user quality of floral services along a gradient of margin habitats between semi‐natural grasslands and forests
Authors: Kütt Laura , Paal Taavi , Lõhmus Kertu , Rammi Ilmar‐Jürgen , Zobel Kristjan , Liira Jaan
Published: March 2018

Question

Do mid‐field forest fragments and margins around them compensate for the loss of floral ecosystem services provided by semi‐natural grasslands?

Location

Seven habitat types in central and southeast Estonia.

Methods

Using three properties of service quality – functional Diversity, functional Intensity, and functional Stability (DIS‐system)– we addressed flower colour richness, flower size, and species richness within colour group, respectively. We also considered the human and pollinator perspective, and the seasonal dynamics of flowering.

Results

Closed‐canopy edges of forests and forest core areas contrasted to semi‐natural grasslands and grassland surrogates in some indicators of species composition, such as proportion of forbs, but less unequivocally in more specific indicators of service quality. Habitats ranked quite similarly from both a human and pollinator perspective, except the human perspective overstated the compositional and service quality of all open habitats. From a human perspective, forest service quality was downgraded in all three service provision properties in comparison to other habitats, while pollinators would see the strong contrast of forests only in flower size (functional intensity). Only south‐exposed close‐canopy edges and particularly outer grassy edges of forests somewhat resembled the quality of grassland surrogates for both user groups.

Conclusions

The ecosystem service provision quality of a habitat should be evaluated using a set of functional indicators, considering user group specific perception and phenology. Small mid‐field forests only partly substitute for the floral‐based services provided by grasslands, but their role can be improved by selectively opening up the overstorey at forest margins and expanding outer forest margin grasslands.
Listen to the public and fulfil their information interests – translating vaccine communication research findings into guidance for regulators
Authors: Bahri Priya , Castillon Melero Mireia
Published: March 2018

Regulatory authorities have a crucial role in communicating about the vaccines they license. In terms of content and timing, their communication to the public is usually driven by data on quality, safety and efficacy. However, concerns over safety and vaccine hesitancy have emerged in some communities in various countries, and this demands a new approach to communication, starting with listening to the public debate. Reviewing communication research findings, coming in particular from the cognitive, decision‐making and media sciences, constitutes one mechanism of listening and has led the European Union (EU) regulatory network to developing guidance about which common concerns and information needs of the public to address through proactive and prepared communication. The guidance has been welcomed by EU and international fora. The current article summarizes the recommendations and shares the underlying research findings, as well as a proof of concept that communication research can be valuable for regulators. It is critical that regulators integrate the communication process with product risk assessment in the framework of pharmacovigilance, to ensure that public concerns are addressed in the assessments and that information about evidence and uncertainty relating to safety is provided to the public and vaccination policy makers in a specific, clear and accurate manner. Additionally, information from regulatory authorities should support healthcare professionals in their communication with patients. Meeting the information interests of the public is the principal prerequisite for informed decisions as well as safe and effective use of vaccines and medicines overall. This is also fundamental for trust in the authorities' commitment to patient and population health.
Altered attentional control linked to catastrophizing in patients with irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Henrich Julia F. , Martin Maryanne
Published: March 2018

Objectives

Our study aimed to investigate differences in attentional control between patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and healthy participants and to examine the link between attentional control and IBS catastrophizing. Previous research has shown that patients with chronic functional illnesses have lower levels of attentional control. However, no previous study has found altered attentional control in patients with IBS or directly investigated the link between attentional control and catastrophizing. We also aimed to establish whether anxiety is associated with attentional functions in patients with IBS.

Design and Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, we compared 41 IBS patients with 39 healthy‐matched control participants on attentional functions using an attention network task. IBS catastrophizing (Gastrointestinal Cognitions), IBS symptom severity (GSRS‐IBS), Depression, Anxiety, and Stress (DASS‐21), and Visceral Anxiety Sensitivity were assessed using self‐report measures.

Results

Patients with IBS had lower attentional control compared to healthy participants, t (78) = −2.75, p = .007, d = .62. Groups did not differ in alerting or orienting attention. IBS patients with lower attentional control scored higher on IBS catastrophizing than those with higher attention control, t (38.59) = 2.19, p = .032, d = .66. Anxiety was related to orienting attention in the IBS group (ρ = .38, p = .015).

Conclusions

Patients with IBS displayed reduced attentional control. Crucially, those patients with lower attentional control also had more catastrophizing thoughts than patients with better attentional control. These findings suggest that improving attentional control could be a valid target for psychological interventions for IBS.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

It has been hypothesised that psychological processes play a role in the maintenance of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and altered levels of attentional control have been found in patients with other functional illnesses but not yet in patients with IBS. Pain catastrophizing, a maladaptive thinking pattern, has been linked with IBS symptom severity, and previous research has shown an association between attentional control and intrusive thoughts. Whether there is an association between catastrophizing thoughts and attentional control in patients with IBS is unknown.

What does this study add?

Patients with irritable bowel syndrome show reduced levels of attentional control.

IBS patients with lower levels of attentional control have more catastrophizing thoughts.

Therapies emphasizing attentional control training may help reduce catastrophizing.
Age‐related differences in sequence learning: Findings from two visuo‐motor sequence learning tasks
Authors: Urry Kristi , Burns Nicholas R. , Baetu Irina
Published: March 2018

The Serial Reaction Time Task (SRTT) is thought to assess implicit learning, which seems to be preserved with age. However, the reaction time (RT) measures employed on implicit‐like tasks might be too unreliable to detect individual differences. We investigated whether RT‐based measures mask age effects by comparing the performance of 43 younger and 35 older adults on SRTT and an explicit‐like Predictive Sequence Learning Task (PSLT). RT‐based measures (difference scores and a ratio) were collected for both tasks, and accuracy was additionally measured for PSLT. We also measured fluid abilities. The RT‐difference scores indicated preserved SRTT and PSLT performance with age and did not correlate with fluid abilities, while ratio RT and the accuracy‐based measures indicated age‐related decline and correlated with fluid abilities. Therefore, RT‐difference scores might mask individual differences, which compromises the interpretation of previous studies using SRTT.
Molecular model for neuroendocrine prostate cancer progression
Authors: Chen Ruiqi , Dong Xuesen , Gleave Martin
Published: March 2018

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most common form of cancer in men in the developed world and the second leading cause of cancer‐related deaths. While advanced PCa is initially controlled with hormonal therapies targeting the androgen receptor (AR) pathway, recurrence occurs because of the emergence of lethal castration‐resistant PCa (CRPC). Despite newer AR pathway inhibitors that prolong survival, resistance still emerges, most often with rising PSA levels indicative of AR‐driven activity, but increasingly as non‐AR‐driven cancer. Treatment resistance mechanisms include AR‐signalling pathway alterations, AR‐signalling bypass mechanisms, and AR‐independent clonal evolution. The latter mechanism can lead to the emergence of neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC), an aggressive lethal subtype of PCa. The incidence of treatment‐induced NEPC is rising because of the widespread use of more potent AR pathway inhibitors. This comprehensive review of major NEPC drivers and facilitators defines three coordinated processes contributing to NEPC progression. Specifically, castration‐resistant adenocarcinoma cells gain lineage plasticity under selective pressures of potent AR suppression to transform into AR‐independent tumour cells. In concert, neuroendocrine (NE)‐specific transdifferentiation factors induce NE lineage of these PCa cells, which, with support of increased proliferation factors, contributes to clonal expansion and tumour repopulation into NEPC. We examine the roles of each of the major NEPC contributors during the disease progression and identify potential therapeutic opportunities for targeted therapies.
Resolvin D1 attenuates liver ischaemia/reperfusion injury through modulating thioredoxin 2‐mediated mitochondrial quality control
Authors: Kang Jung‐Woo , Choi Hyo‐Sun , Lee Sun‐Mee
Published: March 2018

Background and Purpose

Liver ischaemia and reperfusion (IR) injury is a sterile inflammatory response involving production of ROS. Mitochondrial homeostasis is maintained by mitochondrial quality control (QC). Thioredoxin (TRX) 2 is a key mitochondrial redox‐sensitive protein. Resolvin D1 (RvD1), a specialized pro‐resolving lipid mediator, exerts anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant activities. We investigated mechanisms of RvD1 protection against IR‐induced oxidative damage to the liver, focusing on TRX2‐mediated mitochondrial QC.

Experimental Approach

Mice underwent partial warm IR. RvD1 was administered 1 h before ischaemia and immediately prior to reperfusion. Human liver carcinoma HepG2 cells were exposed to hypoxia/reoxygenation and transfected with TRX2 siRNA. Immunohistochemistry, Western blotting and enzyme assays were used to follow changes in mitochondrial structure and function.

Key Results

RvD1 attenuated hepatocellular damage following IR, assessed by serum aminotransferase activities and histology. RvD1 reduced mitochondrial swelling, lipid peroxidation and glutamate dehydrogenase release. Impaired activities of mitochondrial complexes I and III were restored by RvD1. RvD1 enhanced expression of the mitophagy‐related protein, Parkin and inhibited accumulation of PTEN‐induced putative kinase 1. RvD1 restored levels of mitochondrial biogenesis proteins including PPARγ coactivator 1α, nuclear respiratory factor 1 and mitochondrial transcription factor A and mtDNA level. RvD1 attenuated the increase in levels of the mitochondrial fission‐related protein, dynamin‐related protein 1. IR reduced TRX2 levels while increasing TRX2 association with TRX‐interacting protein. RvD1 attenuated these changes. The regulatory effects of RvD1 on mitochondrial QC were abolished by TRX2 knockdown.

Conclusions and Implications

We suggest that RvD1 ameliorated IR‐induced hepatocellular damage by regulating TRX2‐mediated mitochondrial QC.
Chicken or egg? Outcomes of experimental manipulations of maternally transmitted hormones depend on administration method – a meta‐analysis
Authors: Podmokła Edyta , Drobniak Szymon M. , Rutkowska Joanna
Published: March 2018

Steroid hormones are important mediators of prenatal maternal effects in animals. Despite a growing number of studies involving experimental manipulation of these hormones, little is known about the impact of methodological differences among experiments on the final results expressed as offspring traits. Using a meta‐analytical approach and a representative sample of experimental studies performed on birds, we tested the effect of two types of direct hormonal manipulations: manipulation of females (either by implantation of hormone pellets or injection of hormonal solutions) and manipulation of eggs by injection. In both types of manipulation we looked at the effects of two groups of hormones: corticosterone and androgens in the form of testosterone and androstenedione. We found that the average effect on offspring traits differed between the manipulation types, with a well‐supported positive effect of egg manipulation and lack of a significant effect of maternal manipulation. The observed average positive effect for egg manipulation was driven mainly by androgen manipulations, while corticosterone manipulations exerted no overall effect, regardless of manipulation type. Detailed analyses revealed effects of varying size and direction depending on the specific offspring traits; e.g., egg manipulation positively affected physiology and behaviour (androgens), and negatively affected future reproduction (corticosterone). Effect size was negatively related to the dose of androgen injected into the eggs, but unrelated to timing of manipulation, offspring developmental stage at the time of measuring their traits, solvent type, the site of egg injection and maternal hormone delivery method. Despite the generally acknowledged importance of maternal hormones for offspring development in birds, the overall effect of their experimental elevation is rather weak, significantly heterogeneous and dependent on the hormone and type of manipulation. We conclude by providing general recommendations as to how hormonal manipulations should be performed in order to standardize their impact and the results achieved. We also emphasize the need for research on free‐living birds with a focus on fitness‐related and other long‐term effects of maternal hormones.
The direct and indirect effect of attachment insecurity and negative parental behavior on anxiety in clinically anxious children: it's down to dad
Authors: Breinholst Sonja , Tolstrup Marie , Esbjørn Barbara Hoff
Published: March 2018

Background

Theoretically, insecure attachment and negative parental behaviors are risk factors for childhood anxiety. However, few empirical studies have examined their relative contribution including differences between mothers and fathers. To date, only one study has examined a mediational model including these factors, albeit in a nonclinical sample.

Method

This study ameliorates this limitation by investigating direct and indirect relations between maternal and paternal attachment and behaviors, and clinical anxiety in children (mean age 9.6 years). The study recruited 54 families. Anxiety symptoms were measured by the Spielberger State‐trait Inventory for Children, attachment relationships by the Security Scale, and parental behaviors using the Rearing Behavior Questionnaire.

Results

Neither insecure attachment relationship with mother nor maternal negative behavior was a significant predictor of anxiety in children. However, insecure attachment to father accounted for a significant proportion of variance in anxiety, and also fully mediated the relationship between paternal rejection and anxiety.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the importance of assessing the relative contribution of risk factors and the importance of including fathers when investigating the development and maintenance of childhood anxiety.
The development and testing of PSYCHLOPS Kids: a new child‐centred outcome measure
Authors: Godfrey Emma , Aubrey Molly , Crockford Susan , Haythorne Deborah , Kordowicz Maria , Ashworth Mark
Published: March 2018

Background

There are currently no client generated measures able to capture a child's perspective of the value of generic therapeutic mental health interventions. We have developed a new measure called ‘PSYCHLOPS Kids’. It measures areas of individual importance to the respondent and contains both quantitative and qualitative elements. We aimed to pilot this new outcome measure and determine its psychometric properties.

Methods

PSYCHLOPS Kids was adapted from the adult PSYCHLOPS questionnaire, a validated and reliable client‐generated measure used in primary care mental health. Development of PSYCHLOPS Kids involved an expert group, pilot testing with dramatherapists followed by psychometric testing with children receiving dramatherapy aged 7–13 years.

Results

One hundred and thirty‐two children completed pre‐ and postintervention questionnaires. Mean initial PSYCHLOPS Kids scores (scale of 0–12) were 4.98 (SD: 3.42); mean post‐therapy, 3.24 (SD: 3.03); mean effect size of change, 0.51. The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) was used as a comparator instrument completed by parent/carers of 32 children; mean effect size, 0.39. The effect size difference between both instruments was not significant (t = 1.05; p = .30); the PSYCHLOPS Kids Problem domain effect size (mean, 0.68) was significantly greater than for the SDQ (t = 2.06; p = .04). Concurrent validity was demonstrated by strong predictive power of change scores for the self‐assessment of change item in PSYCHLOPS Kids; therapist‐assessment of change was not a significant predictor of change scores. PSYCHLOPS Kids and SDQ change scores were not significantly correlated.

Conclusions

PSYCHLOPS Kids is the first client generated mental health outcome measure focussing on problems for generic use in children. It has demonstrated moderate responsiveness to change and satisfactory testing for measured aspects of validity and reliability. PSYCHLOPS Kids now requires further validity, reliability and qualitative testing.
Circulating exosomes contain protein biomarkers of metastatic non‐small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Wang Ning , Song Xingguo , Liu Lisheng , Niu Limin , Wang Xingwu , Song Xianrang , Xie Li
Published: March 2018

The present study aimed to investigate the overall changes in exosomal proteomes in metastatic and non‐metastatic non‐small‐cell lung cancers (NSCLC) and healthy human serum samples, and evaluate the potential of serum exosomal biomarkers to predict NSCLC metastasis. Tandem mass tags combined with multidimensional liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry analysis were used for screening the proteomic profiles of serum samples. Quantitative proteome, significant pathway, and functional categories of patients with metastatic and non‐metastatic NSCLC and healthy donors were investigated. In total, 552 proteins of the 628 protein groups identified were quantified. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that quantifiable proteins were mainly involved in multiple biological functions, metastasis‐related pathways. Moreover, lipopolysaccharide‐binding proteins (LBP) in the exosomes were found to be well distinguished between patients with metastatic and patients with non‐metastatic NSCLC. Area under the curve (AUC) was 0.803 with a sensitivity of 83.1% and a specificity of 67% (P < .0001). Circulating LBP were also well distinguishable between metastatic and non‐metastatic NSCLC, the AUC was 0.683 with a sensitivity of 79.5% and a specificity of 47.2% (P = .005). This novel study provided a reference proteome map for metastatic NSCLC. Patients with metastatic and non‐metastatic NSCLC differed in exosome‐related proteins in the serum. LBP might be promising and effective candidates of metastatic NSCLC.
New bone formation after transcrestal sinus floor elevation was influenced by sinus cavity dimensions: A prospective histologic and histomorphometric study
Authors: Stacchi Claudio , Lombardi Teresa , Ottonelli Roberto , Berton Federico , Perinetti Giuseppe , Traini Tonino
Published: March 2018

Objective

The aim of this multicenter prospective study was to analyze clinically and histologically the influence of sinus cavity dimensions on new bone formation after transcrestal sinus floor elevation (tSFE).

Material and Methods

Patients needing maxillary sinus augmentation (residual crest height <5 mm) were treated with tSFE using xenogeneic granules. Six months later, bone‐core biopsies were retrieved for histological analysis in implant insertion sites. Bucco‐palatal sinus width (SW) and contact between graft and bone walls (WGC) were evaluated on cone beam computed tomography, and correlations between histomorphometric and anatomical parameters were quantified by means of forward multiple linear regression analysis.

Results

Fifty consecutive patients were enrolled and underwent tSFE procedures, and forty‐four were included in the final analysis. Mean percentage of newly formed bone (NFB) at 6 months was 21.2 ± 16.9%. Multivariate analysis showed a strong negative correlation between SW and NFB (R2 = .793) and a strong positive correlation between WGC and NFB (R2 = .781). Furthermore, when SW was stratified into three groups (<12 mm, 12 to 15 mm, and >15 mm), NFB percentages (36%, 13% and 3%, respectively) resulted significantly different.

Conclusions

This study represented the first confirmation based on histomorphometric data that NFB after tSFE was strongly influenced by sinus width and occurred consistently only in narrow sinus cavities (SW <12 mm, measured between buccal and palatal walls at 10‐mm level, comprising the residual alveolar crest).
One anastomosis gastric bypass versus Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass for morbid obesity: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Magouliotis D. E. , Tasiopoulou V. S. , Tzovaras G.
Published: March 2018

We aim to review the available literature on morbidly obese patients treated with one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) or Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB) in order to compare the clinical outcomes of the two methods. A literature search was performed in PubMed, Cochrane library and Scopus, in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria (7452 patients). OAGB was associated with shorter mean operative time. The length of hospital stay was comparable between the two procedures. The incidence of leaks, marginal ulcer, dumping, bowel obstruction, revisions and mortality was similar between the two approaches. The incidence of malnutrition was increased in patients treated with OAGB, while the incidence of internal hernia and bowel obstruction was greater in the RYGB group. In addition, the percentage excess weight loss at 1, 2 and 5 years post‐operatively was greater for the OAGB group. The rate of type 2 diabetes remission was greater in the OAGB group. The rate of hypertension and dyslipidemia remission was also similar between OAGB and RYGB. Randomized controlled trials, comparing RYGB to OAGB, are necessary to further assess their clinical outcomes.
Comparison of reactivity to a metallic disc and 2% aluminium salt in 366 children, and reproducibility over time for 241 young adults with childhood vaccine‐related aluminium contact allergy
Authors: Gente Lidholm Anette , Inerot Annica , Gillstedt Martin , Bergfors Elisabet , Trollfors Birger
Published: March 2018

Background

An aluminium hydroxide‐adsorbed pertussis toxoid vaccine was studied in 76 000 children in the 1990s in Gothenburg, Sweden. Long‐lasting itchy subcutaneous nodules at the vaccination site were seen in 745 participants. Of 495 children with itchy nodules who were patch tested for aluminium allergy, 377 were positive. In 2007‐2008, 241 of the positive children were retested. Only in one third were earlier positive results reproduced.

Objectives

To further describe patch test reactions to different aluminium compounds in children with vaccine‐induced aluminium allergy.

Patients/Methods

Positive patch test results for metallic aluminium (empty Finn Chamber) and aluminium chloride hexahydrate 2% petrolatum (pet.) were analysed in 366 children with vaccine‐induced persistent itching nodules tested in 1998‐2002. Of those, 241 were tested a second time (2007‐2008), and the patch test results of the two aluminium preparations were analysed.

Results

Patch testing with aluminium chloride hexahydrate 2% pet. is a more sensitive way to diagnose aluminium contact allergy than patch testing with metallic aluminium. A general decrease in the strength of reactions to both aluminium preparations in 241 children tested twice was observed.

Conclusions

Aluminium contact allergy can be diagnosed by patch testing without using metallic aluminium.
Outcome of surgery for recurrent anal cancer: results from a tertiary referral centre
Authors: Bignell M. , Chave H. , Branagan G.
Published: March 2018

Aim

Chemoradiotherapy remains the first line of treatment for anal cancer with surgery reserved for cancer recurrence or persistence. The low incidence of anal cancer means that the numbers undergoing surgery is small with centralization for excision to regional cancer centres. We present our experience of abdominal perineal excision, with reconstruction of the perineal defect (APERR), within a tertiary centre.

Method

Over a 15‐year period, data were collected retrospectively from notes of patients who underwent an APERR. The aim was to look at disease‐free and overall survival and complications associated with flap reconstruction.

Results

In the study period, 29 patients [median age = 62 (range: 42–81; interquartile range: 54–68) years] underwent APERR. Median follow‐up was 77 (4–200) months. Thirteen patients died during follow‐up; eight from their disease, with a median survival time of 16 (4–63) months. Five‐year survival was 67%. Nine (31%) patients had recurrence during the follow up period; this was local (n = 2), regional (n = 4), distant (n = 2) or a combination (n = 1). Sixteen (55%) patients developed 24 complications, including nine (31%) flap complications and 10 (34%) parastomal hernias. Flap complications were flap failure (n = 1) requiring direct closure, flap dehiscence (n = 2), necrosis of flap tip (n = 1), wound infection (n = 4) and a bulky flap (n = 1) requiring liposuction.

Conclusion

APERR of anal cancer is a feasible technique with excellent oncological treatment and acceptable long‐term complications, although a higher than expected rate of parastomal hernia was noted.
What to do with the rectal stump during sphincter preserving rectal cancer resection with end colostomy: a collaborative snapshot study
Authors: Westerduin E. , Aukema T. S. , van Geloven A. A. W. , Bemelman W. A. , Tanis P. J. ,   the Dutch Snapshot Research Group
Published: March 2018

Aim

Low Hartmann's resection (LHR) and intersphincteric abdominoperineal excision (iAPR) are both feasible options in the treatment of rectal cancer when restoration of bowel continuity is not desired. The aim of this study was to compare the incidence of pelvic abscess and associated need for re‐intervention and readmission after LHR and iAPR.

Method

From a snapshot research project in which all rectal cancer resections from 71 Dutch hospitals in 2011 were evaluated, patients who underwent LHR or iAPR were selected.

Results

A total of 185 patients were included: 139 LHR and 46 iAPR. No differences in baseline characteristics were found except for more multivisceral resections in the iAPR group (22% vs 10%; P = 0.041). Pelvic abscesses were diagnosed in 17% of the LHR group after a median of 21 days (interquartile range 10–151 days), compared to 11% in the iAPR group (P = 0.352) after a median of 90 days (interquartile range 44–269 days; P = 0.102). All 28 patients with a pelvic abscess underwent at least one re‐intervention. Four patients (9%) in the iAPR group and nine (7%) after LHR were readmitted because of a pelvic abscess over a median 39 months of follow‐up.

Conclusion

This cross‐sectional multicentre study suggests that cross‐stapling and intersphincteric resection of the rectal stump, during non‐restorative rectal cancer resection, are associated with an equal risk of pelvic abscess formation and have a similar need for re‐intervention and readmission.
A values‐driven self‐organization mechanism for automating multiagent coordination
Authors: Jiao Wenpin , Sun Yanchun
Published: March 2018

In distributed and open environments, MASs (multiagent systems) generally have no mechanisms for prior coordination and self‐organization has been believed to be the necessary selection to achieve the coordination of agents. This paper first presents a values‐driven model for self‐organization in which the expected emergent properties of a system are specified as the social values while the social values are realized via implicitly inducing members to regulate their individual values and adjust their behaviors to fit the expectations of the system. Based on the values‐driven self‐organization, this paper proposes an automated coordination mechanism for decentralized MASs. In this mechanism, by indirectly changing the difficulties in acquiring resources (which may be delegated to some special agents since MASs generally do not have substantial bodies), MASs can lead agents to regulate their values to be consistent with the social values of MASs so that the coordination of MASs can spontaneously emerge from the local behaviors of agents. Finally, this paper implements a simulation traffic system using the coordination mechanism based on values‐driven self‐organization to validate the emergence of coordination among multiple agents.
Dry transfer printing of silk and cotton with reactive dyes and mixed polysaccharide thickeners
Authors: Li Qing , Chen Guoqiang , Xing Tieling , Miao Sainan
Published: March 2018

Dry transfer technology involving adhesion and steaming was designed for the printing of untreated silk and cotton with reactive dyes. The transfer paper was prepared by coating mixed polysaccharide thickeners composed of adhesive high‐substituted hydroxypropyl cellulose (H‐HPC) and another thickener, either sodium alginate (SA), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), guar gum (SG‐9) or carboxymethyl starch (SG‐24). Patterns on the transfer paper were obtained by means of ink‐jet. The thermal plasticity of H‐HPC was observed and 120 °C was determined as the adhesion temperature. Rheological testing of all the thickeners verified that their shear‐thinning behaviour favoured successful coating. By comparing the effects of different mixed thickeners on the prints’ quality with regard to colour depth, sharpness, colour fastness and handle, it was concluded that the colour depth depended on the adhesion extent and reactivity between the thickener and reactive dye. Using H‐HPC/SA and H‐HPC/HEC produced the highest and lowest colour depths, respectively. The sharpness was visibly influenced by the different mixed thickeners. A clear pattern was achieved when the other thickener was CMC, SG‐9 or SG‐24. Both the colour fastness and handle were desirable, irrespective of the mixed thickeners used.
Serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D levels in hospitalized adults with community‐acquired pneumonia
Authors: Brance María L. , Miljevic Julio N. , Tizziani Raquel , Taberna María E. , Grossi Georgina P. , Toni Pablo , Valentini Elina , Trepat Andrea , Zaccardi Julia , Moro Juan , Finuci Curi Baltasar , Tamagnone Norberto , Ramirez Mariano , Severini Javier , Chiarotti Pablo , Consiglio Francisco , Piñeski Raúl , Ghelfi Albertina , Kilstein Jorge , Street Eduardo , Moretti Dino , Oliveto Viviana , Mariño Marcelo , Manera Jorge , Brun Lucas R.
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) is the infectious disease with the highest number of deaths worldwide. Several studies have shown an association between vitamin D deficiency and increases susceptibility to respiratory tract infections.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) levels in hospitalized adults in general room with CAP.

Materials and methods

An observational study was carried out in 207 hospitalized adults of both sex with CAP (>18 years) from Rosario city, Argentina (32° 52′ 18″S) between July 2015 and June 2016.

Results

In total, 167 patients were included in the data analysis [59% women (57.4 ± 19.6 years), body mass index 27.2 ± 7.8 kg/m2]. In brief, 63% showed unilobar infiltrate and 37% were multilobar. The CURB‐65 index was 66.5% low risk, 16.0% intermediate risk and 17.5% high risk. According to Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) 53.5% had not comorbidity (CCI = 0) and 46.5% showed CCI ≥ 1. The 25OHD level was: 11.92 ± 7.6 ng/mL (51.5%: <10 ng/mL, 33.5%: 10–20 ng/mL, 13.2%: 20–30 ng/mL and 1.8%: >30 ng/mL). Higher 25OHD were found in male (female: 10.8 ± 6.7 ng/mL, male: 13.5 ± 8.5 ng/mL, P = .02) and 25OHD correlated with age (r = –.17; P = .02). 25‐Hydroxyvitamin D was also correlated with CURB65 index (r = –.13; P = .049), CCI (r = –.20, P = .007) and with the 10 years of life expectative (%) (r = .19; P = .008). In addition, higher 25OHD were found with lower CCI (CCI 0 = 13.0 ± 8.2 ng/mL, CCI ≥ 1= 10.5 ± 6.7 ng/mL; P = .0093).

Conclusions

Hospitalized adults with CAP have lower 25OHD levels and would be associated with the severity of CAP.
Do public expenditures on health and families relate to alcohol abstaining in adolescents? Multilevel study of adolescents in 24 countries
Authors: Vieno Alessio , Altoè Gianmarco , Kuntsche Emmanuel , Elgar Frank J
Published: March 2018

Introduction and Aims

Several European countries have observed an increase in the proportion of adolescents that abstain from drinking alcohol in the last decade. The reasons for this trend remain underexplored. We hypothesised that more generous government expenditures on health services and benefits to families with children relate to a positive trend in abstainers.

Design and Methods

We used data on 15‐year‐olds in four successive cycles of the World Health Organization Health Behaviour in School‐aged Children study (2002 to 2014) in 24 North American and European countries (pooled n = 175 331). Generalised linear mixed‐effects models were tested to analyse trends in alcohol abstinence and to investigate whether cross‐country differences in these trends relate to public expenditures on health and families with children (in proportion to gross domestic product).

Results

Overall, we observed an increase in the proportion of abstainers from 21% in 2002 to 35% in 2014. An exception was Greece where abstaining had decreased from 20% to 15%. Similar results were found in boys and girls. The upward trend in abstinence related to larger government expenditures on health and families.

Discussions and Conclusions

More generous expenditures on health services and family benefits relate to more adolescents abstaining from alcohol.
What is going on in underage drinking? Reflections on Finnish European school survey project on alcohol and other drugs data 1999–2015
Authors: Raitasalo Kirsimarja , Simonen Jenni , Tigerstedt Christoffer , Mäkelä Pia , Tapanainen Heli
Published: March 2018

Introduction and Aims

As alcohol use has decreased among Finnish adolescents, we aim to assess: (i) time trends in alcohol use, heavy episodic drinking (HED) and potential explanatory variables among adolescents; (ii) the relationship between trends of explanatory variables and trends in alcohol use and HED; and (iii) which of the explanatory variables can account for the temporal change in alcohol use and HED.

Design and Methods

The analyses are based on European School Survey Project on Alcohol and Other Drugs data collected from 15‐ to 16‐year‐old Finnish adolescents in 1999, 2003, 2007, 2011 and 2015.

Results

The decline in alcohol use and HED among underage youth in Finland is associated with at least three factors: (i) obtaining alcohol has become more difficult; (ii) parents know better than before where their children spend their Friday nights; and (iii) the risk attached to going out with friends on drinking has decreased.

Discussion and Conclusions

Formal policy measures and adults’ attitudes have probably affected the availability of alcohol for adolescents, and thus they partly explain the decline in youth drinking. This decline coincides with the introduction of new digital technologies, new forms of interaction within families and peer groups, and more conscientious teenagers. All these changes are not necessarily causes of the decline but are part of a similar broader change in adolescents’ lives.
Integrating multiple data sources for assessing blue whale abundance and distribution in Chilean Northern Patagonia
Authors: Bedriñana‐Romano Luis , Hucke‐Gaete Rodrigo , Viddi Francisco Alejandro , Morales Juan , Williams Rob , Ashe Erin , Garcés‐Vargas José , Torres‐Florez Juan Pablo , Ruiz Jorge
Published: March 2018

Aim

Species distribution models are useful tools for depicting important habitat, assessing abundance and orienting conservation efforts. For small populations in poorly studied ecosystems, available data are often scarce and patchy. To overcome this limitation, we aim to evaluate the use of different data types within a hierarchical Bayesian framework with the goal of modelling the abundance and distribution of a small and highly migratory population of blue whale (BW,Balaenoptera musculus) summering in Chilean Northern Patagonian (CNP).

Location

CNP, Eastern South Pacific (ESP).

Methods

We constructed a Bayesian hierarchical species distribution Model (HSDM), combining a binomial N‐mixture model used to modelBWgroups counts in line‐transect data (2009, 2012 and 2014) with a logistic regression for modelling presence‐availability data (2009–2016), allowing both models to share covariate parameters for borrowing strength in estimations.

Results

Distance to areas of high chlorophyll‐aconcentration during spring before summering season (AHCC‐s) was the most important and consistent explanatory variable for assessingBWabundance and distribution inCNP. Incorporating accessorial presence‐only data reduced uncertainty in parameters estimation when comparing with a model using only line‐transect data, although other covariates of secondary importance failed to be retained in this model.

Main conclusions

Our results remark the capability ofHSDMfor integrating different data types providing a potential powerful tool when data are limited and heterogeneous. Results indicate thatAHCC‐s, and possibly thermal fronts, could modulateBWabundance and distribution patterns inCNP. Preliminary model‐based delimitations of possible priority conservation areas forBWinCNPoverlap with highly used vessel navigation routes and areas destined to aquaculture.