bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Iodine-131 Therapy and Lacrimal Drainage System Toxicity: Nasal Localization Studies Using Whole Body Nuclear Scintigraphy and SPECT-CT
Authors: Ali Mohammad Javed , Vyakaranam Achyut Ram , Rao Jyotsna Eleshwarapu , Prasad Giri , Reddy Palkonda Vijay Anand
Published: December 2015

Purpose:

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of dose on nasal localization of radioactive iodine-131 (I-131) following therapy for differentiated thyroid carcinomas.

Methods:

Retrospective evaluation of all patients who underwent post-therapy I-131 whole body scintigraphy and single photon emission computed tomography was performed. Patients were divided into 2 groups; group A were treated with 100 millicurie (mCi) and group B with ≥150 mCi. Databases were reviewed for demographics, diagnosis, and administered dosage of I-131. Whole body scintigraphy images were retrieved and nasal uptake was analyzed and classified as nil to trace, low, moderate, and high uptake and corresponding single photon emission CTs were analyzed for radioactive nasal activity.

Results:

A total of 100 patients were studied, 50 in each of the groups. The M:F ratio was 1.1:1 (27:23) in group A and 1.5:1 (30:20) in group B. The mean age was 43.12 years and 54.6 years in groups A and B, respectively. Papillary carcinoma of the thyroid was the most common type accounting for 82% (41/50) of patients in group A and 62% (31/50) in group B. Imaging studies revealed nil to trace nasal activity in 80% (40/50) in group A as compared with 56% (28/50) in group B. None of the patients in group A showed high nasal uptake, whereas 4% (2/50) in group B demonstrated such high activity.

Conclusion:

Intranasal localization of radioactive I-131 was significant in patients receiving a dose of ≥150 mCi. Intranasal localization may partly explain toxicity to nasolacrimal duct and may be a risk factor for subsequent development of nasolacrimal duct obstructions.
Gallbladder Ejection Fraction Is Unrelated to Gallbladder Pathology in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Jones Patrick M. , Rosenman Marc B. , Pfefferkorn Marian D. , Rescorla Frederick J. , Bennett William E.
Published: December 2015

Objectives:

Biliary dyskinesia is a common diagnosis that frequently results in cholecystectomy. In adults, most clinicians use a cut off value for the gallbladder ejection fraction (GBEF) of <35% to define the disease. This disorder is not well characterized in children. Our aim was to determine the relation between GBEF and gallbladder pathology using a large statewide medical record repository.

Methods:

We obtained records from all patients of 21 years and younger who underwent hepatic iminodiacetic acid (HIDA) testing within the Indiana Network for Patient Care from 2004 to 2013. GBEF results were obtained from radiology reports using data mining techniques. Age, sex, race, and insurance status were obtained for each patient. Any gallbladder pathology obtained subsequent to an HIDA scan was also obtained and parsed for mention of cholecystitis, cholelithiasis, or cholesterolosis. We performed mixed effects logistic regression analysis to determine the influence of age, sex, race, insurance status, pathologist, and GBEF on the presence of these histologic findings.

Results:

Two thousand eight hundred forty‐one HIDA scans on 2558 patients were found. Of these, 310 patients had a full‐text gallbladder pathology report paired with the HIDA scan. GBEF did not correlate with the presence of gallbladder pathology (cholecystitis, cholelithiasis, or cholesterolosis) when controlling for age, sex, race, insurance status, and pathologist using a mixed effects model.

Conclusions:

Hypokinetic gallbladders are no more likely to have gallbladder pathology than normal or hyperkinetic gallbladders in the setting of a patient with both a HIDA scan and a cholecystectomy. Care should be used when interpreting the results of HIDA scans in children and adolescents.
The mediating role of job satisfaction in the relationship between job training satisfaction and turnover intentions
Authors: Huang Wen-Rou , Su Chih-Hao
Published: December 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship among job training satisfaction (JTS), job satisfaction (JS) and turnover intention (TI) and moreover, the role of JS in the relationship between the JTS and TI.

Design/methodology/approach

– A survey was used in this study for a sample size of 115. The principal component analysis was carried out to examine the factors in JTS and JS. The regression and mediation analyses were applied to assess the relationship among the JTS, JS and TI.

Findings

– A significantly negative relationship between JTS and TI was found and mediated by JS. The paper also suggests that JS is positively related to JTS but is negatively related to TI, which is in accordance with what have been reported in the earlier studies.

Practical implications

– This study reinforced the significance of job training in human resource management practices. The employees’ satisfaction with job training that would lead to higher JS and lower TIs was emphasized. Therefore, it becomes important for HRD professionals to consider both the delivery of the training to the employees and the employees’ satisfaction with the training approach when designing the training program.

Originality/value

– While many different variables have been studied in the relationship with TI, the JTS is rarely discussed. This paper attempts to examine the relationship among JTS, JS and TI with addition of new insights.
Analysis of a trial assessing the long‐term effectiveness of salicylic acid plasters compared with scalpel debridement in facilitating corn resolution in patients with multiple corns
Authors: Stephenson John , Farndon Lisa , Concannon Michael
Published: December 2015

This study assesses the effect of salicylic acid plasters on the time to resolution of 324 corns experienced by 201 participants taking part in a randomized controlled trial. While the rate of corn resolution was substantively higher in the treatment group than in the control group, treatment was found to be not significantly related to time to corn recurrence when analyzed over the full 12‐month follow‐up period. Parametric survival analysis modeling of interval‐censored data and incorporating patient‐specific frailty terms was utilized, to model correlation of corns within patients (hazard ratio [HR], 1.189; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.780–1.813; P = 0.422). Median resolution times were 10.0 months for corns in the treatment group and 13.4 months for corns in the control group. Controlling for treatment, corn type was found to be related to resolution time, with dorsal/interdigital (ID) corns showing better resolution than plantar corns (HR, 1.670; 95% CI, 1.061–2.630; P = 0.027). Median resolution times were 5.9 months for dorsal/ID corns and 14.9 months for plantar corns. Secondary measures relating to quality of life (QoL) and foot‐related disability, using the EQ‐5D questionnaire and the Manchester Foot Pain and Disability Index (MFPDI), were also assessed at the patient level in multivariate models. Treatment was not significantly related to any of these measures over the whole period of analysis. However, a trend analysis revealed a quadratic trend in QoL and MFPDI scores, arising from a substantive initial improvement between baseline and 3 months, followed by a gradual decrease between 3 and 12 months.
Using in situ management to conserve biodiversity under climate change
Authors: Greenwood Owen , Mossman Hannah L. , Suggitt Andrew J. , Curtis Robin J. , Maclean Ilya M. D.
Published: December 2015

Successful conservation will increasingly depend on our ability to help species cope with climate change. While there has been much attention on accommodating or assisting range shifts, less has been given to the alternative strategy of helping species survive climate change through in situ management.

Here we provide a synthesis of published evidence examining whether habitat management can be used to offset the adverse impacts on biodiversity of changes in temperature, water availability and sea‐level rise. Our focus is on practical methods whereby the local environmental conditions experienced by organisms can be made more suitable.

Many studies suggest that manipulating vegetation structure can alter the temperature and moisture conditions experienced by organisms, and several demonstrate that these altered conditions benefit species as regional climatic conditions become unsuitable. The effects of topography on local climatic conditions are even better understood, but the alteration of topography as a climate adaptation tool is not ingrained in conservation practice. Trials of topographic alteration in the field should therefore be a priority for future research.

Coastal systems have the natural capacity to keep pace with climate change, but require sufficient sediment supplies and space for landward migration to do so. There is an extensive literature on managed realignment. While the underlying rationale is simple, successful implementation requires careful consideration of elevation and past land use. Even with careful management, restored habitats may not attain the physical and biological attributes of natural habitats.

Synthesis and applications. The recent literature provides a compelling case that some of the adverse effects of climate change can be offset by appropriate management. However, much of the evidence for this is indirect and too few studies provide empirical tests of the long‐term effectiveness of these management interventions. It is clear from the existing evidence that some techniques have a higher risk of failure or unexpected outcomes than others and managers will need to make careful choices about which to implement. We have assessed the strength of evidence of these approaches in order to demonstrate to conservation professionals the risks involved.
Linking functional diversity to resource availability and disturbance: a mechanistic approach for water‐limited plant communities
Authors: Nathan Jonathan , Osem Yagil , Shachak Moshe , Meron Ehud
Published: December 2015

Functional diversity (FD) has become a principal concept for revealing mechanisms driving community assembly and ecosystem function. Multiple assembly processes, including abiotic filtering, competition and multi‐trophic relationships, operate simultaneously to structure FD. In water‐limited plant communities, FD is likely to reflect trade‐offs between drought resistance vs. disturbance resistance and competitive ability.

We propose a mathematical mechanistic model for understanding the organization and function of water‐limited plant communities. The approach captures the interplay between abiotic filtering, below‐ and above‐ground competition and disturbance. We exploit this powerful model to uncover mechanisms underlying changes in functional diversity along stress gradients.

Our approach links biomass production and FD to environmental conditions through plant resource capture ability. Functional groups are defined along a single trade‐off axis according to investment in capturing light (shoot) vs. water (root). Species growth rate is determined dynamically by the species traits, water availability and grazing stress. We derive biomass production, functional diversity and composition along precipitation and grazing gradients.

Model's results revealed several regimes structuring FD along the precipitation gradient: ‘Struggle for water’ at low precipitation, ‘competition for water’ at intermediate precipitation and ‘competition for light’ at high precipitation.

We observed a shift in grazing effect on FD from negative at very low precipitation, to positive at higher precipitation. Unimodal FD–grazing intensity relationship was observed under high precipitation, while under low precipitation, FD decreased moderately with increasing grazing intensity.

Synthesis. Our model showcases how fundamental tradeoffs in plant traits may drive functional diversity and ecosystem function along environmental gradients. It offers a mechanism through which novel understandings can be obtained regarding the interplay between water stress, below‐ and above‐ground competition and disturbance intensity and history. We discuss further model testing possibilities as well as required empirical work.
Consistent, small effects of treefall disturbances on the composition and diversity of four Amazonian forests
Authors: Baker Timothy R. , Vela Díaz Dilys M. , Chama Moscoso Victor , Navarro Gilberto , Monteagudo Abel , Pinto Ruy , Cangani Katia , Fyllas Nikolaos M. , Lopez Gonzalez Gabriela , Laurance William F. , Lewis Simon L. , Lloyd Jonathan , ter Steege Hans , Terborgh John W. , Phillips Oliver L.
Published: December 2015

Understanding the resilience of moist tropical forests to treefall disturbance events is important for understanding the mechanisms that underlie species coexistence and for predicting the future composition of these ecosystems. Here, we test whether variation in the functional composition of Amazonian forests determines their resilience to disturbance.

We studied the legacy of natural treefall disturbance events in four forests across Amazonia that differ substantially in functional composition. We compared the composition and diversity of all free‐standing woody stems 2–10 cm diameter in previously disturbed and undisturbed 20 × 20 m subplots within 55, one‐hectare, long‐term forest inventory plots.

Overall, stem number increased following disturbance, and species and functional composition shifted to favour light‐wooded, small‐seeded taxa. Alpha‐diversity increased, but beta‐diversity was unaffected by disturbance, in all four forests.

Changes in response to disturbance in both functional composition and alpha‐diversity were, however, small (2 – 4% depending on the parameter) and similar among forests.

Synthesis. This study demonstrates that variation in the functional composition of Amazonian forests does not lead to large differences in the response of these forests to treefall disturbances, and overall, these events have a minor role in maintaining the diversity of these ecosystems.
Treatment of chronic kidney disease using a traditional Chinese medicine, Flos Abelmoschus manihot (Linnaeus) Medicus (Malvaceae)
Authors: Chen Yizhi , Cai Guangyan , Sun Xuefeng , Chen Xiangmei
Published: December 2015

The flowers of Abelmoschus manihot (Linnaeus) Medicus (Malvaceae; Flos A. manihot) have been used in China for many centuries as a traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of chronic kidney disease. The Huangkui capsule is a single‐plant drug extracted from the dry corolla of Flos A. manihot that has been approved by China's State Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of chronic glomerulonephritis. The purpose of this paper is to review briefly some of the past experiences in rapid filtration and to present more fully a few facts brought out in recent studies. The primary chemical constituents of Flos A. manihot are flavonoids. In vivo, the flavonoids can be transformed into glucuronide–sulphate conjugates, which are the major metabolites of Flos A. manihot and could contribute to the renoprotective effects in vivo. Flos A. manihot can ameliorate proteinuria, podocyte apoptosis, glomerulosclerosis and mesangial proliferation. The renoprotective effects of Flos A. manihot are related to inhibition of caspase‐3 and caspase‐8 overexpression, reduction of the infiltration of ED1+ and ED3+ macrophages, downregulation of oxidative stress, inhibition of the p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase and serine/threonine kinase pathways and suppression of transforming growth factor‐β1 and tumour necrosis factor‐α expression. Recently, a multicentre randomized controlled trial demonstrated that Flos A. manihot was more effective than the angiotensin‐receptor blocker losartan in reducing proteinuria in patients with primary glomerular disease. Because Flos A. manihot is generally preferred by Chinese patients and clinicians, high‐quality trials to test the efficacy and safety of Flos A. manihot are urgently needed.
Elicitation of irrigators' risk preferences from observed behaviour
Authors: Nauges Céline , Wheeler Sarah Ann , Zuo Alec
Published: December 2015

Water trading in the Murray–Darling Basin of Australia has developed to the point where it is a common adaptation tool used by irrigators, making it an apt case study to elicit the marginal value of irrigation water and irrigators' risk preferences in two key industries with differing levels of water dependence. Our data come from large‐scale and representative surveys of irrigated broadacre and horticultural farms in the Murray–Darling Basin over a 6‐year period. The marginal contribution of irrigation water to profit is estimated at $547 and $61/ML on average in horticulture and broadacre, respectively. Horticultural irrigators are found to be averse to the risk of large losses (downside risk) while broadacre irrigators are averse to the variability (variance) of profit.
Translational Global Praxis: Rethinking Methods and Modes of African Urban Research
Authors: Parnell Susan , Pieterse Edgar
Published: December 2015

Advancing global urbanism depends upon making Africa's cities a more dominant part of the global urban narrative. Constructing a more legitimate research agenda for African cities, however, necessitates a repositioning of conventional modes of research. To achieve intellectual and political traction in what are typical African research conditions—where human needs are great, information is poor, conditions of governance are complex and the reality is changeable—we reflect on the experiences of the African Centre for Cities where (alongside conventional use of theory, methods and data) a translational mode of working has been adopted. The notion of translational urban research praxis captures more than the idea of applied research or even co‐production, and encompasses integrating the research conception, design, execution, application and reflection—and conceiving of this set of activities as a singular research/practice process that is by its nature deeply political and locationally embedded. In this way we suggest that African urbanism can be both usefully illuminated by global theories and methods, and can simultaneously be constitutive of the reform of the ideas through which cities generally are understood.
Relative Risk Regression for Binary Outcomes: Methods and Recommendations
Authors: Marschner Ian C.
Published: December 2015

Relative risks are often considered preferable to odds ratios for quantifying the association between a predictor and a binary outcome. Relative risk regression is an alternative to logistic regression where the parameters are relative risks rather than odds ratios. It uses a log link binomial generalised linear model, or log‐binomial model, which requires parameter constraints to prevent probabilities from exceeding 1. This leads to numerical problems with standard approaches for finding the maximum likelihood estimate (MLE), such as Fisher scoring, and has motivated various non‐MLE approaches. In this paper we discuss the roles of the MLE and its main competitors for relative risk regression. It is argued that reliable alternatives to Fisher scoring mean that numerical issues are no longer a motivation for non‐MLE methods. Nonetheless, non‐MLE methods may be worthwhile for other reasons and we evaluate this possibility for alternatives within a class of quasi‐likelihood methods. The MLE obtained using a reliable computational method is recommended, but this approach requires bootstrapping when estimates are on the parameter space boundary. If convenience is paramount, then quasi‐likelihood estimation can be a good alternative, although parameter constraints may be violated. Sensitivity to model misspecification and outliers is also discussed along with recommendations and priorities for future research.
Half‐dose photodynamic therapy followed by diode micropulse laser therapy as treatment for chronic central serous chorioretinopathy: evaluation of a prospective treatment protocol
Authors: Breukink Myrte B. , Mohr Jacqueline K. , Ossewaarde‐van Norel Annette , den Hollander Anneke I. , Keunen Jan E.E. , Hoyng Carel B. , Boon Camiel J.F.
Published: December 2015

Purpose

To evaluate the outcome of a prospective protocol for the treatment of chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).

Methods

Interventional prospective case series in 59 eyes (59 patients) with active chronic CSC. All patients were first treated with indocyanine green angiography (ICGA)‐guided half‐dose photodynamic therapy (PDT). In case of persistent serous subretinal fluid (SRF) after a follow‐up period of at least 6 weeks, ICGA‐guided PDT was repeated. If the SRF persisted after two PDT treatments, additional ICGA‐guided high‐density subthreshold diode micropulse laser (HSML) therapy was performed. Clinical evaluation included best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA), fundoscopy, OCT, fundus autofluorescence, fluorescein angiography and ICGA.

Results

After a single PDT treatment, complete resolution of SRF was seen in 37 of 59 eyes. Of the 22 eyes with no complete resolution of SRF, 19 eyes received a second PDT treatment, after which seven eyes of the 19 eyes showed a complete resolution of SRF. Ten eyes underwent HSML, of which one eye had complete resolution of SRF within 7 weeks. At final follow‐up a complete resolution of SRF was present in 80% of all eyes. The mean BCVA improved from 0.28 logMAR at baseline to 0.16 logMAR at final follow‐up. Improvement of BCVA was highest after the first treatment (−0.12 logMAR, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The proposed treatment strategy using half‐dose PDT and HSML in active chronic CSC resulted in an anatomical success rate of 80%. The first half‐dose PDT treatment has the highest likelihood of a favourable treatment response on OCT and BCVA increase.
Albumin and pre‐albumin levels do not reflect the nutritional status of female adolescents with restrictive eating disorders
Authors: Huysentruyt Koen , De Schepper Jean , Vanbesien Jesse , Vandenplas Yvan
Published: December 2015

Aim

Albumin and pre‐albumin are frequently used as nutritional markers in clinical practice. We examined whether serum albumin and pre‐albumin were predicted by body mass index (BMI), hydration and/or inflammation in female adolescents with a recently diagnosed restrictive eating disorder (RED).

Methods

This was a retrospective study of female adolescents with RED from 2002 to 2011. Low albumin and pre‐albumin levels were defined as <3.5 g/dL and <20 mg/dL, respectively. We assessed inflammation using the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and dehydration using the haematocrit levels.

Results

We included 75 females with a mean age of 15.2 years and 64% had a BMI Z score of <−2. The mean albumin and pre‐albumin levels were 4.8 g/dL and 22.2 mg/dL, respectively, with 24% of the children having low pre‐albumin and none having low albumin levels. The stepwise multiple regression for albumin identified ESR and haematocrit as significant predictors, which explained 14.8% of the variance. Age was the only significant predictor for pre‐albumin, which explained 15.3% of the variance.

Conclusion

Albumin, but not pre‐albumin, levels were primarily predicted by low‐grade inflammation and hydration, but not by BMI. These markers should not be used to assess nutritional status in adolescents with RED.
Transcranial direct current stimulation to enhance cognition in euthymic bipolar disorder
Authors: Martin Donel M , Chan Herng‐Nieng , Alonzo Angelo , Green Melissa J , Mitchell Philip B , Loo Colleen K
Published: December 2015

Objectives

To investigate the use of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) for enhancing working memory and sustained attention in euthymic patients with bipolar disorder.

Methods

Fifteen patients with bipolar disorder received anodal left prefrontal tDCS with an extracephalic cathode (prefrontal condition), anodal left prefrontal and cathodal cerebellar tDCS (fronto‐cerebellar condition), and sham tDCS given ‘online’ during performance on a working memory and sustained attention task in an intra‐individual, cross‐over, sham‐controlled experimental design. Exploratory cluster analyses examined responders and non‐responders for the different active tDCS conditions on both tasks.

Results

For working memory, approximately one‐third of patients in both active tDCS conditions showed performance improvement. For sustained attention, three of 15 patients showed performance improvement with prefrontal tDCS. Responders to active tDCS for working memory performed more poorly on the task during sham tDCS compared to non‐responders.

Conclusions

A single session of active prefrontal or fronto‐cerebellar tDCS failed to improve working memory or sustained attention performance in euthymic patients with bipolar disorder. Several important considerations are discussed in relation to future studies investigating tDCS for enhancing cognition in patients with bipolar disorder.
Knockdown of GPR137,G Protein‐coupled receptor 137, Inhibits the Proliferation and Migration of Human Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Ren Jizhong , Pan Xiuwu , Li Lin , Huang Yi , Huang Hai , Gao Yi , Xu Hong , Qu Fajun , Chen Lu , Wang Linhui , Hong Yi , Cui Xingang , Xu Danfeng
Published: December 2015

GPR137 belongs to the G protein‐coupled receptor family involving the regulation of transmembrane signal transduction that launches pivotal cellular functions. However, its function in prostate cancer (PCa) has been rarely reported. It was found in this study that GPR137 was upregulated in PCa tissues as compared with that in paracancerous tissues. To see whether GPR137 could serve as a potential therapeutic target for PCa, GPR137 was knocked down to verify its biological function in PCa cells. Lentivirus‐introduced short hairpin RNA (shRNA) was designed to silence GPR137 gene. It was found that silencing of GPR137 gene suppressed the proliferation and colony formation of PCa cell lines PC‐3 and DU145. Further study indicated that growth inhibition by GPR137 knockdown was associated with cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase. Furthermore, silencing of GPR137 repressed the invasion and migration abilities of PC‐3 cells via downregulating slug and snail and upregulating E‐cadherin. Collectively, these findings imply that GPR137 plays an important role in the occurrence and progression of PCa and may prove to be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of advanced PCa.
Thyroid function testing in women who had a stillbirth
Authors: Nijkamp Janna W. , Korteweg Fleurisca J. , Groen Henk , Timmer Albertus , Van Den Berg Gerrit , Bossuyt Patrick M. , Mol Ben Willem J. , Erwich Jan Jaap H.M.
Published: December 2015

Context

Thyroid dysfunction is thought to be associated with stillbirth. Therefore, thyroid function is often recommended in the diagnostic investigations for stillbirth.

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the added value of thyroid function testing in the diagnostic investigations for stillbirth.

Design and patients

A nationwide multicentre prospective cohort study in 1025 women who suffered stillbirth >20 weeks of gestation performed between 2002 and 2008. In each woman, an extensive diagnostic work‐up was performed, including placental examination and autopsy. TSH and FT4 values below the 2·5th percentile or above the 97·5th percentile according local laboratory reference values were regarded as abnormal. Women with a history of thyroid disease were evaluated separately.

Main outcome measures

Thyroid function abnormalities in women with stillbirth.

Results

Of 1025 included women, 21 had a history of thyroid disease (2%). In the 875 with TSH and FT4 results and no history of thyroid disease, 10% had hypothyroxinemia, 4·6% subclinical hypothyroidism, 1·6% overt hypothyroidism and 1·5% subclinical hyperthyroidism. Women with a subclinical hyperthyroidism more often had a foetal death caused by foetal hydrops: 23% vs 2·9% (adjusted OR 10·3, 95% CI 2·5–42).

Conclusions

Women with a stillbirth had a slightly higher prevalence of overt hypothyroidism, subclinical hypothyroidism and hypothyroxinaemia compared to previous studies on thyroid dysfunction in pregnant women. Given the absence of a strong associations with the cause of stillbirth, and no demonstrated beneficial effects of treating thyroid dysfunction in these women, routine screening after stillbirth is not justified.
Influence of hydroxyapatite granule size, porosity, and crystallinity on tissue reactionin vivo. Part A: synthesis, characterization of the materials, andSEManalysis
Authors: Maté Sánchez de Val José E. , Calvo‐Guirado José L. , Gómez‐Moreno Gerardo , Pérez‐Albacete Martínez Carlos , Mazón Patricia , De Aza Piedad N.
Published: December 2015

Objective

The aim of this study was the synthesis and analysis of the tissue reaction to three different Hydroxyapatite (HA)‐based bone substitute materials differing only in granule size, porosity, and crystallinity through an animal experimental model at 60 days.

Materials and methods

Three differentHA‐based biomaterials were synthesized and characterized by X‐ray diffraction,SEM, andEDSanalysis, the resultant product was ground in three particle sizes: Group I (2000–4000 μm), GroupII(1000–2000 μm), and GroupIII(600–1000 μm). Critical size defects were created in both tibias of 15 rabbits. Four defects per rabbit for a total of 60 defects were grafted with the synthesized materials as follows: Group I (15 defects), GroupII(15 defects), GroupIII(15 defects), and empty (15 defects control). After animals sacrifice at 60 days samples were obtained and processed forSEMandEDSevaluation of Ca/P ratios, elemental mapping was performed to determine the chemical degradation process and changes to medullary composition in all the four study groups.

Results

The tendency for the density was to increase with the increasing annealing temperature; in this way it was possible to observe that the sample that shows highest crystallinity and crystal size corresponding to that of group I. TheSEMmorphological examination showed that groupIIIimplant showed numerous resorption regions, groupIIimplant presented an average resorption rate of all the implants. The group I displayed smoother surface features, in comparison with the other two implants.

Conclusion

The data from this study show that changing the size, porosity, and crystallinity of oneHA‐based bone substitute material can influence the integration of the biomaterials within the implantation site and the new bone formation.
An epidemiological study to investigate the relationship between Meniere's disease and migraine
Authors: Ray J. , Carr S.D. , Popli G. , Gibson W.P.
Published: December 2015

Objectives

A relationship between Meniere's disease and migraine has been postulated previously. This study investigates this relationship further and determines the most influential factors for developing Meniere's disease.

Design

Epidemiological study.

Setting

Two tertiary referral Neuro‐Otological centres in Sheffield and Sydney.

Participants

Adult patients referred to the Neuro‐Otology clinic between 2003 and 2010.

Main outcome measures

Past history and family history of Meniere's disease and migraine. Logistic regression analysis to determine the most influential factors for Meniere's disease.

Results

One hundred and eighty‐one patients were included in the study, 102 with Meniere's disease and 79 with other balance disorders. Three significant findings were demonstrated. Firstly, a family history of Meniere's disease (33.3% versus 6.3%) or migraine (21.6% versus 9%) is more common in the Meniere's disease group than in the other balance disorders group. Secondly, a history of migrainous headaches is more common in the Meniere's disease group than in the other balance disorders group (45.1% versus 9%). Thirdly, patients with a past history or a family history of Meniere's disease or migraine have a higher likelihood of suffering from Meniere's disease.

Conclusions

There is an overall relationship between Meniere's disease and migraine. A family history of Meniere's disease or migraine is more common in Meniere's disease. A history of migrainous headache is more common in Meniere's disease. Patients with a past history or family history of Meniere's disease or migraine have a higher likelihood of suffering from Meniere's disease.
Upper arm venous compliance and fitness in stable coronary artery disease patients and healthy controls
Authors: Leinan Ingeborg Megård , Aamot Inger‐Lise , Støylen Asbjørn , Karlsen Trine , Wisløff Ulrik
Published: December 2015

Objectives

Arteries have been examined extensively in coronary artery disease (CAD), while less attention has been paid to veins. Aims: (1) To determine whether venous compliance or venous outflow in the upper arm is reduced in CAD patients compared to healthy age‐ and fitness‐matched controls; and (2) to examine the association between upper arm venous compliance and total blood volume.

Design

Fifteen patients with stable CAD (age 62·1 ± 5·7 years, body mass index 26·5 ± 3·2 kg·m2, fat‐free mass 59·3 ± 7·6 kg, mean arterial pressure 98·9 ± 8·0 mmHg, VO2peak: 2·92 ± 0·53 l min−1) were compared to twelve healthy age‐ and fitness‐matched controls (age 62·2 ± 3·7 years, body mass index 26·2 ± 2·3 kg m2, fat‐free mass 61·0 ± 9·2 kg, mean arterial pressure 96·5 ± 9·1 mmHg, VO2peak: 3·24 ± 0·48 l min−1). Venous compliance was examined using high‐resolution ultrasound and Doppler in the basilic vein. Blood volumes were measured by the optimized CO rebreathing method.

Results

Equal upper arm venous compliance normalized to blood volume (patients: 0·28 ± 0·26 mm3 mmHg−1 l−1, healthy controls: 0·16 ± 0·11 mm3 mmHg−1 l−1) and peak venous outflow normalized to blood volume (patients: 10·4 ± 3·9 cm s−1 l−1, healthy controls: 8·3 ± 0·8 cm s−1 l−1) were found in patients with CAD and healthy age‐ and fitness‐matched controls. Additionally, no difference was found in blood volume (patients: 6·06 ± 0·79 l, healthy controls: 6·68 ± 1·27 l) or VO2peak.

Conclusion

Comparable upper arm venous compliance and venous outflow in CAD patients and healthy age‐ and fitness‐matched controls might indicate that high VO2peak and blood volume could prevent possible disease‐induced reductions in venous compliance in CAD.
Heart rate variability in elite sprinters: effects of gender and body position
Authors: Abad Cesar , Kobal Ronaldo , Kitamura Katia , Gil Saulo , Pereira Lucas , Loturco Irineu , Nakamura Fábio
Published: December 2015

To describe the heart rate variability (HRV) of high‐level sprinters in both the supine and standing positions, the HRV of 7 male (24 ± 6 years; 80 ± 8 kg and 182 ± 7 cm) and 11 female (27 ± 5 years; 61 ± 4 kg; 167 ± 5 cm) high‐level Brazilian sprinters was measured in the standing and supine body positions in both the time and frequency domains. The heart rate (HR) and the time (SDNN, RMSSD) and frequency (LF; HF and LF:HF) domains of the HRV were assessed. Natural log‐transformations (ln) of all HRV indices were log‐transformed prior to analysis to reduce bias arising from non‐uniformity of error. The Cohen's effect size and magnitude‐based inference (MBI) were obtained for comparisons. The results suggest higher cardiac autonomic stress in the standing position than in the supine for both genders. With the exception of the lnSDNN that showed possibly MBI in female athletes, all other HRV indices presented a likely or almost certainly MBI. Male athletes demonstrated a higher lnSDNN in the supine body position (very likely MBI) and a higher HR in the standing position (very likely MBI) than females. In conclusion, elite sprinters (independent of the gender) present lower HRV in the standing position than in the supine position, but males present a more notable change in cardiac autonomic stress than female athletes.
Transcriptional regulation of insect steroid hormone biosynthesis and its role in controlling timing of molting and metamorphosis
Authors: Niwa Yuko S. , Niwa Ryusuke
Published: December 2015

The developmental transition from juvenile to adult is often accompanied by many systemic changes in morphology, metabolism, and reproduction. Curiously, both mammalian puberty and insect metamorphosis are triggered by a pulse of steroid hormones, which can harmonize gene expression profiles in the body and thus orchestrate drastic biological changes. However, understanding of how the timing of steroid hormone biosynthesis is regulated at the molecular level is poor. The principal insect steroid hormone, ecdysteroid, is biosynthesized from dietary cholesterol in the specialized endocrine organ called the prothoracic gland. The periodic pulses of ecdysteroid titers determine the timing of molting and metamorphosis. To date, at least nine families of ecdysteroidogenic enzyme genes have been identified. Expression levels of these genes correlate well with ecdysteroid titers, indicating that the transcriptional regulatory network plays a critical role in regulating the ecdysteroid biosynthesis pathway. In this article, we summarize the transcriptional regulation of ecdysteroid biosynthesis. We first describe the development of prothoracic gland cells during Drosophila embryogenesis, and then provide an overview of the transcription factors that act in ecdysteroid biosynthesis and signaling. We also discuss the external signaling pathways that target these transcriptional regulators. Furthermore, we describe conserved and/or diverse aspects of steroid hormone biosynthesis in insect species as well as vertebrates.
Importance of Relationship between Ductus and Isthmus in Fetal Diagnosis of Coarctation of Aorta
Authors: Toole Benjamin J. , Schlosser Brian , McCracken Courtney E. , Stauffer Nanci , Border William L. , Sachdeva Ritu
Published: December 2015

Background

The prenatal diagnosis of coarctation of aorta (CoA) can prove problematic, with relatively high false‐positive and false‐negative rates. This significantly impacts both prenatal counseling and postnatal management. We sought to evaluate a variety of prenatal echo indices to determine which would best predict neonatal CoA.

Methods

Fetal echocardiograms of those with prenatal diagnosis of COA were analyzed for the following: diameter of cardiac valves, ascending aorta, distal transverse arch, aortic isthmus, and ductus; right (RV) and left ventricular (LV) length and end‐diastolic area and isthmus–ductal angle (IDA). Ratios of RV: LV area, aortic: pulmonary valve diameter, mitral: tricuspid valve ratio (MV:TV ratio), and isthmus: ductal diameter (IDD) were calculated. These measures were compared between those with CoA after birth (CoA group) and those without (no CoA group).

Results

Of the 62 subjects, 27 were in CoA and 35 in no CoA group. CoA group had a significantly smaller mitral valve, MV:TV ratio, IDD, and IDA compared to no CoA group. The ROC curves for each of these significant measures showed that mitral valve, IDD, and IDA had an AUC of 0.72, 0.80, and 0.83, respectively. Multiple variable model using at least two of these measures had 85% sensitivity and 60% specificity.

Conclusions

A smaller mitral valve, MV:TV ratio, IDD, and IDA are associated with development of neonatal coarctation. In cases with suspected prenatal diagnosis of CoA, careful evaluation of the relation between the isthmus and the ductus arteriosus using IDD and IDA may enhance the diagnostic accuracy of fetal echocardiograms.
Serum inflammatory mediators correlate with disease activity in electrical status epilepticus in sleep (ESES) syndrome
Authors: van den Munckhof Bart , de Vries Evelien E. , Braun Kees P. J. , Boss H. Myrthe , Willemsen Michèl A. , van Royen‐Kerkhof Annet , de Jager Wilco , Jansen Floor E.
Published: December 2015

We aimed to study serum cytokine levels in 11 electrical status epilepticus in sleep (ESES) patients and 20 healthy control children. Patients showed significantly higher levels of interleukin (IL)‐1α, IL‐6, IL‐10, chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand (CCL)2 and chemokine (C‐X‐C motif) ligand (CXCL)8/IL‐8 than controls, while macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) and CCL3 were significantly lower. Follow‐up analyses in five patients revealed a significant decrease of IL‐6 levels after immunomodulating treatment. IL‐6 changes were accompanied by clear improvement of electroencephalography (EEG) patterns and neuropsychological evaluation. We hypothesize that IL‐6 correlates with disease activity and immunomodulating treatment efficacy.
Brivaracetam in Unverricht‐Lundborg disease (EPM1): Results from two randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled studies
Authors: Kälviäinen Reetta , Genton Pierre , Andermann Eva , Andermann Frederick , Magaudda Adriana , Frucht Steven J. , Schlit Anne‐Françoise , Gerard Danielle , de la Loge Christine , von Rosenstiel Philipp
Published: December 2015

Objective

To evaluate efficacy, tolerability, and safety of adjunctive brivaracetam (BRV) in patients with Unverricht‐Lundborg disease (EPM1).

Methods

Two prospective, multicenter, double‐blind, phase III trials (N01187/NCT00357669; N01236/NCT00368251) in patients (≥16 years) with genetically ascertained EPM1, showing moderate–severe myoclonus (action myoclonus score ≥30/160), randomized (1:1:1) to twice‐daily BRV (N01187: 50 or 150 mg/day; N01236: 5 or 150 mg/day), or placebo. Both studies comprised a baseline period (2 weeks), 2‐week up‐titration period, 12‐week stable‐dose maintenance period, and down‐titration or entry into long‐term follow‐up study. Symptoms of myoclonus were assessed by Unified Myoclonus Rating Scale (UMRS). Primary efficacy end point was percent reduction from baseline in action myoclonus score (UMRS section 4) at last treatment visit. Safety assessments included treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs).

Results

N01187: 50 patients randomized, 47 completed; N01236: 56 patients randomized, 54 completed. Median (min–max) percent reduction from baseline in action myoclonus score is the following—N01187: placebo 5.6 (−81.3 to 53.8), pooled BRV group (primary efficacy analysis) 21.4 (−50.0 to 73.6), BRV 50 mg/day 26.3 (−35.8 to 69.2), BRV 150 mg/day 16.9 (−50.0 to 73.6); N01236: placebo 17.5 (−170 to 61.5), BRV 5 mg/day −4.6 (−430 to 81.8), BRV 150 mg/day (primary efficacy analysis) 12.3 (−58.3 to 96.9). Estimated differences versus placebo were not statistically significant. TEAEs were reported by 72–75% placebo‐treated and 56–83% BRV‐treated patients.

Significance

Effect of BRV on action myoclonus was not statistically significant. However, action myoclonus score showed wide intrapatient variability and may not have been the optimal tool to measure severity of myoclonus in EPM1. Both studies had very high completion rates (95.3% overall), and a high percentage of patients (88.7% overall) entered long‐term follow‐up; both likely to be influenced by good tolerability. These studies demonstrate the feasibility of rigorous trials in progressive myoclonic epilepsy.
Global spread of hypoxia in freshwater ecosystems during the last three centuries is caused by rising local human pressure
Authors: Jenny Jean‐Philippe , Francus Pierre , Normandeau Alexandre , Lapointe François , Perga Marie‐Elodie , Ojala Antti , Schimmelmann Arndt , Zolitschka Bernd
Published: December 2015

The spread of hypoxia is a threat to aquatic ecosystem functions and services as well as to biodiversity. However, sparse long‐term monitoring of lake ecosystems has prevented reconstruction of global hypoxia dynamics while inhibiting investigations into its causes and assessing the resilience capacity of these systems. This study compiles the onset and duration of hypoxia recorded in sediments of 365 lakes worldwide since AD 1700, showing that lacustrine hypoxia started spreading before AD 1900, 70 years prior to hypoxia in coastal zones. This study also shows that the increase of human activities and nutrient release is leading to hypoxia onset. No correlations were found with changes in precipitation or temperature. There is no evidence for a post‐1980s return to well‐oxygenated lacustrine conditions in industrialized countries despite the implementation of restoration programs. The apparent establishment of stable hypoxic conditions prior to AD 1900 highlights the challenges of a growing nutrient demand, accompanied by increasing global nutrient emissions of our industrialized societies, and climate change.
Helicobacter pylori Infection in Children: Nutritional Status and Associations with Serum Leptin, Ghrelin, and IGF‐1 Levels
Authors: Erdemir Gulin , Ozkan Tanju Basarir , Ozgur Taner , Altay Derya , Cavun Sinan , Goral Guher
Published: December 2015

Background

Helicobacter pylori is associated with gastrointestinal diseases such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, malignancy and lymphoma, and extra‐gastrointestinal conditions. H. pylori infection is negatively associated with children's growth. Chronic inflammation of the stomach that results in the loss of appetite and, dysregulation of neuroendocrine hormones such as leptin, and ghrelin are the probable reasons of this negative association. The objective of this study is to determine the serum levels of leptin, ghrelin, and IGF‐1 in H. pylori‐infected children and their relations with growth.

Materials and methods

A hundred and sixty‐one school children aged between 6 and 14 years were selected randomly from five primary schools representing a cross section of population. Demographic and sociocultural characteristics, and anthropometric measurements were recorded. Serum H. pylori IgG, insulin‐like growth factor‐1, leptin, and ghrelin levels were measured in all children. The children were grouped according to the nutritional status and Helicobacter pylori seropositivity. Nutritional indices were compared among groups in association with serum leptin, ghrelin, and insulin‐like growth factor‐1 levels.

Results

H. pylori IgG positivity was found in 34.2%, and 14.9% of children were malnourished. H. pylori seropositivity was significantly higher in older ages (10.32 ± 2.26 vs 9.53 ± 2.36 years, p = .036), and body weight and height Z scores were significantly lower in H. pylori‐seropositive children (−0.33 ± 1.08 vs 0.04 ± 1.26, p = .044 and 0.13 ± 0.92 vs 0.23 ± 0.91, p = .018 respectively). H. pylori seropositivity was found to be an independent risk factor for shorter body height (p = .01). Serum leptin, ghrelin, and IGF‐1 levels were not associated with H. pylori IgG seropositivity (0.35 vs 0.55 ng/mL, p = .3; 3267.4 ± 753.0 vs 2808.3 ± 911.4 pg/mL, p = .06; 470 ± 176 vs 521 ± 179 ng/mL, p = .32, respectively).

Conclusions

Children infected with H. pylori are prone to short stature. This effect seems to be independent of neuroendocrine hormones.