bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Open‐label study of oral CEP‐701 (lestaurtinib) in patients with polycythaemia vera or essential thrombocythaemia with JAK2‐V617F mutation
Authors: Hexner Elizabeth , Roboz Gail , Hoffman Ron , Luger Selina , Mascarenhas John , Carroll Martin , Clementi Regina , Bensen‐Kennedy Debra , Moliterno Alison
Published: October 2013

JAK2‐V617F is central to the pathogenesis of myeloproliferative neoplasms. We examined whether lestaurtinib decreased JAK2‐V617F allele burden and evaluated its clinical benefits and tolerability in patients with polycythaemia vera (PV) and essential thrombocythaemia (ET). This phase 2, open‐label, multicentre study was designed to detect ≥15% reduction in JAK2‐V617F allele burden in 15% of patients. Eligible patients received lestaurtinib 80 mg twice daily for 18 weeks and could participate in a 1‐year extension phase of treatment. Of 39 enrolled patients, 27 (69%) had PV; 12 (31%) had ET. While the pre‐specified responder rate of 15% was not met, lestaurtinib modestly reduced JAK2‐V617F allele burden and reduced spleen size in a subset of patients. Of 37 patients in the full efficacy analysis, 5 (14%) responded clinically. Every patient had ≥1 adverse event, most commonly gastrointestinal (95%). Fifteen patients (38%) experienced serious adverse events; 23 (59%) withdrew due to adverse events. This is the first reported study of JAK2‐inhibitor treatment in patients with PV/ET and highlights both the need for further studies to assess the role of JAK2 inhibition in treatment of PV/ET and the use of JAK2‐V617F as a biomarker for response. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00586651.
Hydroxycarbamide reduces eosinophil adhesion and degranulation in sickle cell anaemia patients
Authors: Pallis Flavia Rubia , Conran Nicola , Fertrin Kleber Yotsumoto , Olalla Saad Sara Terezinha , Costa Fernando Ferreira , Franco‐Penteado Carla Fernanda
Published: October 2013

Inflammation, leucocyte and red cell adhesion to the endothelium contribute to the pathogenesis of sickle cell anaemia. Neutrophils appear to be important for vaso‐occlusion, however, eosinophils may also participate in this phenomenon. The role of eosinophils in the pathophysiology of sickle cell anaemia (SCA) and the effect of hydroxycarbamide (HC) therapy on the functional properties of these cells are not understood. Patients with SCA and those on HC therapy (SCAHC) were included in the study. SCAHC individuals presented significantly lower absolute numbers of eosinophils than SCA. Furthermore, SCAHC eosinophils demonstrated significantly lower adhesive properties, compared to SCA eosinophils. SCA and SCAHC eosinophils presented greater spontaneous migration when compared with control eosinophils. Baseline eosinophil peroxidase and reactive oxygen species release was higher for SCA individuals than for control individuals, as were plasma levels of eosinophil derived neurotoxin. SCAHC eosinophil degranulation was lower than that of SCA eosinophil degranulation. Eotaxin‐1 and RANTES levels were higher in the plasma of SCA and SCAHC individuals, when compared with controls. These data suggest that eosinophils exist in an activated state in SCA and indicate that these cells play a role in the vaso‐occlusive process. The exact mechanism by which HC may alter SCA eosinophil properties is not clear.
No impact of high‐dose cytarabine and asparaginase as early intensification with intermediate‐risk paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: results of randomized trial TCCSG study L99‐15
Authors: Kato Motohiro , Koh Katsuyoshi , Manabe Atsushi , Saito Tomohiro , Hasegawa Daisuke , Isoyama Keiichi , Kinoshita Akitoshi , Maeda Miho , Okimoto Yuri , Kajiwara Michiko , Kaneko Takashi , Sugita Kanji , Kikuchi Akira , Tsuchida Masahiro , Ohara Akira
Published: October 2013

The Tokyo Children's Cancer Study Group conducted a randomized controlled study to evaluate the effect of experimental early intensification using high‐dose cytarabine and L‐asparaginase in paediatric intermediate‐risk (IR) acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). A total of 310 IR ALL patients were randomized to receive either experimental early intensification (n = 156) or standard early intensification including standard‐dose cytarabine arm (n = 154) after induction therapy. The experimental arm consisted of high‐dose cytarabine and L‐asparaginase, while the standard arm consisted of standard‐dose cytarabine, oral 6‐mercaptopurine and cyclophosphamide. The probabilities of event‐free survival at 8 years in the experimental and standard arms were 72·3 ± 3·7% and 77·5 ± 3·5%, respectively (P = 0·32). The 8‐year overall survival rates for these two arms were 85·0 ± 3·0% and 86·9 ± 2·8%, respectively (P = 0·72). The frequency of infectious events was significantly higher in the experimental arm (66·4%) than in the standard arm (24·6%) (P < 0·001). In conclusion, experimental early intensification including high‐dose cytarabine followed by L‐asparaginase had no advantage over standard early intensification in paediatric IR ALL patients.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Chalcone Derivatives as Inhibitors of Neutrophils' Chemotaxis, Phagocytosis and Production of Reactive Oxygen Species
Authors: Bukhari Syed N. A. , Tajuddin Yasmin , Benedict Vannessa J. , Lam Kok W. , Jantan Ibrahim , Jalil Juriyati , Jasamai Malina
Published: October 2013

Inhibitory effects on neutrophils' chemotaxis, phagocytosis and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are among the important targets in developing anti‐inflammatory agents and immunosuppressants. Eight series of chalcone derivatives including five newly synthesized series were assessed for their inhibitory effects on chemotaxis, phagocytosis and ROS production in human polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs). Inhibition of PMNs' chemotaxis and phagocytosis abilities were investigated using the Boyden chamber technique and the Phagotest kit, respectively, while ROS production was evaluated using luminol‐ and lucigenin‐based chemiluminescence assay. The new derivatives (4d and 8d), which contain 4‐methylaminoethanol functional group were active in all the assays performed. It was also observed that some of the compounds were active in inhibiting chemotaxis while others suppressed phagocytosis and ROS production. The information obtained gave new insight into chalcone derivatives with the potential to be developed as immunomodulators.
Beyond Topoisomerase Inhibition: Antitumor 1,4‐Naphthoquinones as Potential Inhibitors of Human Monoamine Oxidase
Authors: Coelho‐Cerqueira Eduardo , Netz Paulo A. , do Canto Vanessa P. , Pinto Angelo C. , Follmer Cristian
Published: October 2013

Monoamine oxidase (MAO) action has been involved in the regulation of neurotransmitters levels, cell signaling, cellular growth, and differentiation as well as in the balance of the intracellular polyamine levels. Although so far obscure,MAOinhibitors are believed to have some effect on tumors progression. 1,4‐naphthoquinone (1,4‐NQ) has been pointed out as a potential pharmacophore for inhibition of bothMAOandDNAtopoisomerase activities, this latter associated with antitumor activity. Herein, we demonstrated that certain antitumor 1,4‐NQs, including spermidine‐1,4‐NQ, lapachol, andnor‐lapachol display inhibitory activity on humanMAO‐A andMAO‐B. Kinetic studies indicated that these compounds are reversible and competitiveMAOinhibitors, being the enzyme selectivity greatly affected by substitutions on 1,4‐NQring. Molecular docking studies suggested that the most potentMAOinhibitors are capable to bind to theMAOactive site in close proximity of flavin moiety. Furthermore, ability to inhibit bothMAO‐A andMAO‐B can be potentialized by the formation of hydrogen bonds between these compounds andFADand/or the residues in the active site. Although spermidine‐1,4‐NQs exhibit antitumor action primarily by inhibiting topoisomerase viaDNAintercalation, our findings suggest that their effect onMAOactivity should be taken into account when their application in cancer therapy is considered.
Dural ectasia in Loeys–Dietz syndrome: comprehensive study of 30 patients with a TGFBR1 or TGFBR2 mutation
Authors: Sheikhzadeh S. , Brockstaedt L. , Habermann C.R. , Sondermann C. , Bannas P. , Mir T.S. , Staebler A. , Seidel H. , Keyser B. , Arslan‐Kirchner M. , Kutsche K. , Berger J. , Blankenberg S. , von Kodolitsch Y.
Published: October 2013

The purpose of this study was to assess the frequency, severity, and clinical associations of dural ectasia (DE) in Loeys–Dietz syndrome (LDS). Database analysis of three German metropolitan regions identified 30 patients with LDS and TGFBR1 mutation in 6 and a TGFBR2 mutation in 24 individuals (17 men; mean age: 31 ± 19 years), as well as 60 age and sex‐matched control patients with Marfan syndrome carrying a FBN1 mutation. DE was present in 22 patients with LDS (73%), and it related to skeletal score points (p = 0.008), non‐skeletal score points (p < 0.001), and to the presence of ≥7 systemic score points (p = 0.010). Similarly, the severity of DE was related to body height (p = 0.010) and non‐skeletal score points (p = 0.004). Frequency (p = 0.131) and severity of DE (p = 0.567) was similar in LDS and Marfan syndrome. DE is a manifestation of LDS that occurs with similar frequency and severity as in Marfan syndrome. Severity of DE may serve as a marker of the overall connective tissue disease severity. LDS may be considered in patients with DE.
Overexpression of Adiponectin Improves Neurobehavioral Outcomes After Focal Cerebral Ischemia in Aged Mice
Authors: Miao Jie , Shen Lin‐Hui , Tang Yao‐Hui , Wang Yong‐Ting , Tao Mei‐Xin , Jin Kun‐Lin , Zhao Yong‐Ju , Yang Guo‐Yuan
Published: October 2013

Aims

To study whether adiponectin (APN) could improve neurological outcomes in aged mice after ischemic stroke.

Methods

Adeno‐associated virus carrying APN gene was injected into aged and young adult mice 7 days before transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO). Atrophic volumes and neurobehavioral deficiencies were determined up to 28 days after tMCAO. Focal angiogenesis was determined based on blood vessel number in the ischemic regions.

Results

Increased atrophic volume and more sever neurobehavioral deficits were found in the aged mice compared with young adult mice (P < 0.05). AAV‐APN gene transfer attenuated atrophic volume and improved neurobehavioral outcomes, along with increased focal angiogenesis in both aged and young adult mice, compared with control animals (P < 0.05). In addition, the attenuation of atrophic volume and the improvement in neurobehavioral outcomes were much more significant in aged mice than in young adult mice after AAV‐APN administration (P < 0.05). The number of microvessels in aged AAV‐APN mouse ischemic brain was higher than in young adult AAV‐APN treated mouse brain (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that APN overexpression reduces ischemic brain injury and improves neurobehavioral function recovery in aged mice than in young mice, suggesting APN is more beneficial in aged animals after ischemic stroke.
Mining and the African Environment
Authors: Edwards David P. , Sloan Sean , Weng Lingfei , Dirks Paul , Sayer Jeffrey , Laurance William F.
Published: October 2013

Africa is on the verge of a mining boom. We review the environmental threats from African mining development, including habitat alteration, infrastructure expansion, human migration, bushmeat hunting, corruption, and weak governance. We illustrate these threats in Central Africa, which contains the vast Congo rainforest, and show that more than a quarter of 4,151 recorded mineral occurrences are concentrated in three regions of biological endemism—the Cameroon‐Gabon Lowlands, Eastern DRC Lowlands, and Albertine Rift Mountains—and that most of these sites are currently unprotected. Threats are not uniform spatially, and much of the Congo Basin is devoid of mineral occurrences and may be spared from direct mining impacts. Some of the environmental impacts of African mining development could potentially be offset: mining set‐asides could protect some wildlife habitats, whereas improving transportation networks could increase crop yields and spare land for conservation. Research and policy measures are needed to (1) understand the synergies between mining and other development activities, (2) improve environmental impact assessments, (3) devise mitigation and offsetting mechanisms, and (4) identify market choke points where lobbying can improve environmental practice. Without careful management, rapid mining expansion and its associated secondary effects will have severe impacts on African environments and biodiversity.
Methamphetamine use in a nationwide online sample of older Australian HIV‐positive and HIV‐negative gay men
Authors: Lyons Anthony , Pitts Marian , Grierson Jeffrey
Published: October 2013

Introduction and Aims.

Use of methamphetamine appears to be greater among gay men than in the general population, yet little data are available on factors associated with use, especially among older men. This study identifies factors associated with reported methamphetamine use among older Australian gay men.

Design and Methods.

Data were collected from an online survey involving 1135 HIV‐positive and HIV‐negative gay‐identified men aged 40 years and older.

Results.

One in eight men in the sample, or 13%, reported using methamphetamine in the past 12 months. Patterns of reported use were similar across the country, with no significant differences between major states and territories. Reported methamphetamine use was considerably more prevalent among HIV‐positive (24%) than HIV‐negative men (11%). In a multivariable logistic regression, reported use was significantly greater among men in their 40s compared with those in their 50s and older (P = 0.002), who were single as opposed to being in an ongoing relationship (P = 0.03), who were HIV‐positive (P = 0.003), and who reported using other drugs for non‐medical purposes in the past 12 months (P < 0.001). Socioeconomic status and psychosocial variables, such as experiences of discrimination and psychological distress, were not significant factors for reported methamphetamine use.

Discussion and Conclusions.

Relatively high rates of reported use of methamphetamine were found across the country in this online sample of older Australian gay men. National approaches to health education strategies may be needed, with a focus on high prevalence populations, such as those infected with HIV. [Lyons A, Pitts M, Grierson J. Methamphetamine use in a nationwide online sample of older Australian HIV‐positive and HIV‐negative gay men. Drug Alcohol Rev 2013;32:603–610]
Women, Muslim Immigrants, and Economic Integration in France
Authors: Adida Claire L. , Laitin David D. , Valfort Marie‐Anne
Published: October 2013

Muslim immigrants to Europe display distinctive attitudes toward women in a wide range of survey data. This study investigates whether this translates into distinctive behavior. Relying on a dictator game in France and an identification strategy that isolates the effect of religion from typical confounds such as race, we compare the donations of matched Christian and Muslim immigrants and rooted French to in‐group and out‐group men vs. women. Our results indicate that Muslim immigrant participants deviate from Christian immigrant and rooted French participants in their behavior toward women: while the latter favor women over men, Muslim immigrants favor men over women.
Use of stable isotopes to assess the intraspecific foraging niche of males and female colour morphs of the damselfly Enallagma hageni
Authors: GRANT MICHAEL , ROBISON ANDREW , FINCKE OLA M.
Published: October 2013

For the first time, diet and isotopic niche overlap among males and two female‐specific colour morphs of a damselfly were quantified to test whether sexual conflict could cause intra‐sexual diet variation.

Relative to the green female morph, blue females, similar in coloration to the blue males, may be more likely overlooked by mate‐searching males. If so, blue females should be more likely to forage unmolested at lake shores, where the density of males and prey is high. The blue morph's isotopic niche space should therefore differ from that of green females and be more similar to that of males.

Stable isotope analyses of two Michigan populations failed to support these predictions. Despite population differences in δ13C and diet, within sites isotopic niches overlapped among males and females, with little difference between the two female colour morphs.

Males exhibited the broadest isotopic niche area, which increased across years, whereas that of blue females became more restricted, possibly due to greater sexual harassment in forest feeding sites.

There was an unexpectedly high shift in δ13C from prey to predator. Future work is merited to determine whether such trophic shifts are characteristic of Odonata, a group of important aquatic and terrestrial predators.
Transient biochar effects on decomposer microbial growth rates: evidence from two agricultural case‐studies
Authors: Rousk J. , Dempster D. N. , Jones D. L.
Published: October 2013

We investigated the impact of biochar application on fungal (acetate incorporation into ergosterol) and bacterial (leucine incorporation) growth rates in two case studies: a temperate UK pasture soil and a Mediterranean Australian agricultural soil. We added biochar at similar rates per unit of soil organic carbon (SOC) and monitored both the immediate (after 1 week equilibration) and longer‐term (1–3 years) effects. The immediate effect of the biochar applied to the UK soil was a decreased fungal‐to‐bacterial growth ratio, driven by greater bacterial growth. The immediate effect of biochar application to the Australian soils was subtle, only slightly increasing the fungal‐to‐bacterial growth ratio. In both case studies, the biochar effects were transient, and no long‐term effects (1–3 years) on microbial growth rates could be detected in either soil. The bacterial growth increase in the UK soil was probably related to a release of large amounts of labile C from the biochar, or as C released from the resident SOM caused by the biochar‐induced pH increase. The increase in fungal‐to‐bacterial growth ratio could be related to a release of poor quality C in the Australian soils. There were immediate effects of biochar application on microbial growth in agricultural soils, but they were disparate between cases, making any generalization of mechanisms difficult. However, the microbial responses were consistently transient. Taken together, biochar application to agricultural soil appears to have an impact upon the decomposer community, suggesting limited resistance. However, the microbial functioning appeared resilient to these effects, stabilizing microbial communities to their initial state within 1–3 years of application.
The role of non‐crystalline Fe in the increase of SOC after long‐term organic manure application to the red soil of southern China
Authors: Zhang J. C. , Zhang L. , Wang P. , Huang Q. W. , Yu G. H. , Li D. C. , Shen Q. R. , Ran W.
Published: October 2013

Because of the important role of soil organic carbon (SOC) in nutrient cycling and global climate changes, there has been an interest in understanding how different fertilizer practices affect the SOC preservation and promotion. The results from this study showed that long‐term application of manure (21 years) could increase significantly the content of SOC, total nitrogen (N) and soil pH in the red soil of southern China. The chemical structure of SOC was characterized by using solid‐state cross‐polarization magic angle spinning (CPMAS) 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and the aromatic C, ratio of alkyl C : O‐alkyl C, aromaticity and hydrophobicity of mineral fertilizers N, P and K plus organic manure (NPKM) and organic manure (M) treatments were less than those of mineral fertilizer nitrogen (N) and mineral fertilizers N, P and K (NPK) treatments. Both poorly crystalline (Feo) and organically complexed (Fep) iron contents were influenced significantly (P < 0.05) by different fertilizers, and it was observed that NPKM and M treatments increased the non‐crystalline Fe (Feo‐Fep) content. There was a significant (P < 0.01) positive correlation between soil organic C and non‐crystalline Fe in both the surface (0–20 cm) and subsurface (20–40 cm) soils. The results suggested that non‐crystalline Fe played an important role in the increase of SOC by long‐term application of organic manure (NPKM and M) in the red soil of southern China.
Early transformation and transfer processes in a Technosol developing on iron industry deposits
Authors: Huot H. , Simonnot M. O. , Watteau F. , Marion P. , Yvon J. , De Donato P. , Morel J. L.
Published: October 2013

Large surface areas covered with man‐made materials are subject to pedogenetic evolution. However, pedogenetic processes in the resulting Technosols are seldom fully assessed. This work was conducted to identify and characterize the processes occurring on deposits of industrial technogenic materials. A former settling pond of the iron and steel industry where a forest has established since termination of the industrial activity approximately 50 years ago was chosen. A 2‐m deep pit was opened, and a series of layers of the soil profile were sampled. The macro‐ and micro‐structure were studied, and soil samples were analysed for structural, chemical and mineralogical assessment (chemical analyses, X‐ray diffraction, infrared and Mössbauer spectroscopies, scanning and transmission electron microscopies coupled with energy dispersion spectrometry). Results showed that the profile was composed of a succession of sub‐horizontal layers arranged in two groups according to their structure and composition, linked to the composition of the industrial effluent. Group 1 was composed of iron‐, carbonate‐ and aluminosilicate‐rich layers exhibiting a compact structure. Group 2 contained manganese‐rich layers with a friable structure. Pedogenetic processes of various intensities were detected at different depths. Besides an accumulation of organic matter at the surface, transformations of minerals were recorded all along the soil profile, with weathering, leaching and precipitation of new phases. Phenomena occurred primarily in specific zones, such as cracks and interfaces between two layers. In conclusion, the soil maintained characteristics of the original industrial material and displayed several stages of pedogenesis, which were controlled chronologically by climatic and biological factors.
Understanding patterns and processes in models of trophic cascades
Authors: Heath Michael R. , Speirs Douglas C. , Steele John H.
Published: October 2013

Climate fluctuations and human exploitation are causing global changes in nutrient enrichment of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems and declining abundances of apex predators. The resulting trophic cascades have had profound effects on food webs, leading to significant economic and societal consequences. However, the strength of cascades–that is the extent to which a disturbance is diminished as it propagates through a food web–varies widely between ecosystems, and there is no formal theory as to why this should be so. Some food chain models reproduce cascade effects seen in nature, but to what extent is this dependent on their formulation? We show that inclusion of processes represented mathematically as density‐dependent regulation of either consumer uptake or mortality rates is necessary for the generation of realistic ‘top‐down’ cascades in simple food chain models. Realistically modelled ‘bottom‐up’ cascades, caused by changing nutrient input, are also dependent on the inclusion of density dependence, but especially on mortality regulation as a caricature of, e.g. disease and parasite dynamics or intraguild predation. We show that our conclusions, based on simple food chains, transfer to a more complex marine food web model in which cascades are induced by varying river nutrient inputs or fish harvesting rates.
Unimodal response of fish yield to dissolved organic carbon
Authors: Finstad Anders G. , Helland Ingeborg P. , Ugedal Ola , Hesthagen Trygve , Hessen Dag O.
Published: October 2013

Here, we demonstrate a contrasting effect of terrestrial coloured dissolved organic material on the secondary production of boreal nutrient poor lakes. Using fish yield from standardised brown trout gill‐net catches as a proxy, we show a unimodal response of lake secondary productivity to dissolved organic carbon (DOC). This suggests a trade‐off between positive and negative effects, where the initial increase may hinge upon several factors such as energy subsidising, screening of UV‐radiation or P and N load being associated with organic carbon. The subsequent decline in production with further increase in DOC is likely associated with light limitations of primary production. We also show that shallow lakes switch from positive to negative effects at higher carbon loads than deeper lakes. These results underpin the major role of organic carbon for structuring productivity of boreal lake ecosystems.
Hippocampal volume loss following childhood convulsive status epilepticus is not limited to prolonged febrile seizures
Authors: Yoong Michael , Martinos Marina M. , Chin Richard F. , Clark Christopher A. , Scott Rodney C.
Published: October 2013

Purpose

Childhood convulsive status epilepticus (CSE), in particular prolonged febrile seizures (PFS), has been linked with mesial temporal sclerosis (MTS). Previous studies have shown that hippocampal injury occurs in the acute phase immediately following CSE, but little is known about the longer term evolution of such injury. This study aimed to investigate the longer term outcome of childhood CSE with sequential magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) looking for progressive hippocampal injury during the first year post‐CSE.

Methods

Eighty children (0.18–15.5 years) underwent brain MRI 1 month post‐CSE, 50 with a repeat MRI at 6 months and 46 with repeat MRI at 12 months post‐CSE. Thirty‐one control subjects without neurologic problems had a single brain MRI for comparison. Hippocampal volumes were measured from each MRI scan by two independent observers, and hippocampal growth rates were estimated in each patient with suitable imaging.

Key Findings

Hippocampal volume loss was found in 20–30% of patients and was not associated with the etiology or clinical features of CSE, including seizure duration or focality. A borderline association was found between a history of previous seizures (p = 0.063) and the number of previous febrile seizures (p = 0.051), suggesting that multiple insults may be important in the pathogenesis of progressive hippocampal injury.

Significance

It is apparent that progressive hippocampal damage can occur after CSE of any etiology and is not limited to PFS. Repeated seizures may play an important role, but further follow‐up is needed to determine any other risk factors and proportion of children showing initial volume loss progress to clinical MTS and temporal lobe epilepsy.
Radiolucent periapical lesions and bone mineral density in post‐menopausal women
Authors: López‐López José , Castellanos‐Cosano Lizett , Estrugo‐Devesa Albert , Gómez‐Vaquero Carmen , Velasco‐Ortega Eugenio , Segura‐Egea Juan José
Published: October 2013

Purpose

To investigate the relationship between radiolucent periapical lesions and bone mineral density in post‐menopausal women.

Material and methods

Seventy‐five post‐menopausal women were recruited for the study. Bone mineral density was measured using dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry. Three groups were established: healthy bone group, osteopenic group and osteoporotic group. Periapical radiolucencies were diagnosed on the basis of examination of digital panoramic radiographs. Statistical analysis was carried out using anova and chi‐squared tests, and logistic regression analysis.

Results

In both the osteopenic and osteoporotic groups, 25% of women showed at least one periapical radiolucency, whereas this was only 7.4% in the healthy bone group (odds ratio = 4.2; p = 0.061). After multivariate logistic regression analysis adjusting for covariates (age, number of teeth, number of root‐filled teeth and number of teeth with coronal restorations), a marginally significant association was evident between bone mineral density and the presence of periapical radiolucencies (odds ratio = 1.9; CI 95% = 1.0–3.8; p = 0.050).

Conclusions

After adjusting for covariates, low bone mineral density is marginally associated with a higher frequency of radiolucent periapical lesions.
Aberrant DNA methylation status of DNA repair genes in breast cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Watanabe Yoshiyuki , Maeda Ichiro , Oikawa Ritsuko , Wu Wenwen , Tsuchiya Kyoko , Miyoshi Yasuo , Itoh Fumio , Tsugawa Ko‐ichiro , Ohta Tomohiko
Published: October 2013

Dysregulation of homologous recombination (HR) DNA repair has been implicated in breast carcinogenesis and chemosensitivity. Here, we investigated the methylation status of sixteen HR genes and analyzed their association with tumor subtypes and responses to neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Core specimens were obtained before neoadjuvant chemotherapy from sixty cases of primary breast cancer of the following four subgroups: luminal breast cancer (LBC) with pathological complete response (pCR), LBC with stable disease, triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) with pCR and TNBC with poor response. The aberrant DNA methylation status of the following HR related‐genes was analyzed using bisulfite‐pyrosequencing: BRCA1, BRCA2, BARD1, MDC1, RNF8, RNF168, UBC13, ABRA1, PALB2, RAD50, RAD51, RAD51C, MRE11, NBS1, CtIP and ATM. Among the genes analyzed, only the incidence of BRCA1 and RNF8 methylation was significantly higher in TNBC than that in LBC. Whereas the incidence of BRCA1 methylation was tended to be higher in pCR cases than in poor‐response cases in TNBC, that of RNF8 was significantly lower in pCR cases than in poor‐response cases. Our results indicate that the methylation status of HR genes was not generally associated with TNBC subtype or chemosensitivity although hypermethylation of BRCA1 is associated with TNBC subtype and may impact chemosensitivity.
Long‐term outcome of multiple joint procedures in haemophilia
Authors: de Kleijn P. , Sluiter D. , Vogely H. Ch. , Lindeman E. , Fischer K.
Published: October 2013

In elderly people with haemophilia (PWH), surgery of more than one joint of the lower extremities might be needed. Multiple joint procedures (MJP) were introduced in 1995, defined as any combination of Total Knee or Total Hip Arthroplasty or Ankle Arthrodesis during one in‐hospital stay. The expectation is that by means of such procedures this specific population is able to physically function better for an extended period of time. Thus, they will participate in their society in an optimal way. In this study, we tried to describe an outcome after MJP, including pre‐ and post‐operative pain and range of motion (ROM), and recommend measurement tools. 22 of 37 PWH who underwent MJP between 1995 and 2012 were available for assessment. Pain (WFH score) and range of motion were compared pre and postoperatively. Current outcome was described by VAS per joint, nocturnal and overall pain, MACTAR, Hemophilia Activity List, SF36, and EQ‐5D. Mean age at surgery was 50, 3 years (SD 8, 3); mean follow‐up 12 years (1–18 years). Pain (VAS) decreased post‐surgery (Median 1 – 1, 5), but moderate pain remained. Extension of knees slightly increased, but both knee flexion and ankle plantar and dorsal flexion decreased. PWH reported the ability to stand longer but also pointed at specific problems, e.g. riding a bike (MACTAR). The HAL showed limited activities (functional domains), especially in the ‘complex lower extremity’ (22, 8/100). The SF36 and EQ‐5D showed a mix of physical problems of our population, while experiencing moderate pain and reasonable physical functioning. This led us to the conclusion that adequate follow‐up is needed: ROM of all joints, VAS of all joints as well as nocturnal and overall pain, HAL, SF36 and EQ5D. Performance based activities and participation need further attention.
Comparative study of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation and hepatic resection for small, poorly differentiated hepatocellular carcinomas
Authors: Iida Hiroya , Aihara Tsukasa , Ikuta Shinichi , Yamanaka Naoki
Published: October 2013

Aim

Histologically, poorly differentiated hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) are considered highly malignant. Here, we aimed to evaluate the relative efficacy and safety of hepatic resection or radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for treating this malignancy.

Methods

Between April 2004 and May 2011, we enrolled 48 patients who had poorly differentiated HCC that had been diagnosed postoperatively by pathological assessment. All the tumors had a maximum diameter of 3 cm and all patients had three or less tumors. Fifteen of these patients underwent hepatic resection (HR group) and 33 patients underwent RFA (RF group). The patient background, tumor characteristics, overall survival rate and recurrence‐free survival rate were assessed in both groups.

Results

The mean maximum tumor diameter was 2.5 and 2.0 cm in the HR and RF groups, respectively. The prothrombin activity level was 94% and 86% in the HR and RF groups, respectively. The 1‐, 3‐ and 5‐year cumulative survival rates were 89.1%, 68.7% and 68.7%, respectively, in the HR group, and 59.2%, 40.9% and 32.7%, respectively, in the RF group. The 1‐, 3‐ and 5‐year recurrence‐free survival rates were 85.1%, 64.8% and 48.6%, respectively, in the HR group, and 29.0%, 7.2% and 7.2%, respectively, in the RF group. There was a significant difference between these groups (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

As hepatic resection has greater efficacy than RFA in the treatment of poorly differentiated HCC, even in cases with a small tumor size, we recommend its use for this malignancy.
Material Characterization and Microwave Substrate Applications of Alumina‐Filled Butyl Rubber Composites
Authors: Chameswary Janardhanan , Namitha Lathikumari Krishnankutty , Brahmakumar Methalayil , Sebastian Mailadil Thomas
Published: October 2013

Composites of butyl rubber with micron alumina (BRAL) and nanoalumina (BRnAL) have been prepared by sigma mixing. The stress‐strain curves of both BRAL and BRnAL composites show the mechanical flexibility of the composites. The dielectric and thermal properties of both composites were studied as a function of ceramic loading. For 0.1 volume fraction of micron alumina loading, the composites have attained a relative permittivity (εr) of 2.82 and loss tangent (tanδ) of 0.0023 at 5 GHz, and for the same volume fraction of nanoalumina content, the composite showed εr of 3.15 and tanδ of 0.014 at 5 GHz.
Influence of chitosan/clay functional bionanocomposite activated with rosemary essential oil on the shelf life of fresh silver carp
Authors: Abdollahi Mehdi , Rezaei Masoud , Farzi Gholamali
Published: October 2013

A combination of chitosan biopolymer, nanoclay and rosemary essential oil was prepared as a functional bionanocomposite (FBN). Its ability to improve the shelf life of refrigerated (4 ± 1 °C) silver carp fillets was studied. The fresh fillets were left untreated as a control or coated with chitosan, chitosan/clay bionanocomposite and chitosan/clay/rosemary essential oil (Ch/clay/REO) FBN. Then, they were evaluated for chemical, microbial and sensory properties over 16‐day storage. The samples coated with the FBN had the lowest pH and total volatile basic nitrogen. Ch/clay/REO coating efficiently retarded lipid oxidation by decreasing peroxide, free fatty acid and thiobarbituric acid production in the samples. The coating also reduced total viable and psychrotrophic count of the fillets more than 1.5 log by the end of storage.
Depression: Cognition Relations after Stroke
Authors: Hommel Marc , Carey Leeanne , Jaillard Assia
Published: October 2013

Background

Poststroke depression and cognitive dysfunction are common and are independent predictors of poor recovery.

Aims

We assessed whether and how depression and cognition were correlated in the subacute period after stroke.

Method

We prospectively recruited 207 nondemented patients (Mini Mental State Examination ≥ 23) presenting with a first-ever ischemic stroke (127 males), mean age of 48·5 years (16·4 standard deviation), median 12 days after infarction, as assessed on magnetic resonance imaging. We administered a comprehensive neuropsychological battery involving cognitive domains including instrumental functions, memory, executive functions, and working memory. Depression was quantified with the Beck Depression Inventory.

Results

Depression (Beck Depression Inventory > 9) was identified in 30·4% of the patients (95% confidence interval 24·2–37·2%). Median Beck Depression Inventory was 6. Median Mini Mental State Examination was 30. Cognitive dysfunctioning in at least one neuropsychological test was present in 89% (95% confidence interval 84–93%). Each point increase of Beck Depression Inventory was associated with an odd of 1·1 (95% confidence interval 1·04–1·19) of changing to a worse category of cognition. Stroke location was not correlated with depression. All cognitive domains were significantly correlated with depression. In multivariate analysis, the executive functions ( P = 0·001) and the working memory ( P = 0·009) were the best predictors of depression when adjusted for demographic and stroke characteristics.

Conclusions

The rates of depression and cognitive impairment were in the range of previous stroke studies. Our study suggested a strong relation between depression and cognition characterized by executive functions and working memory dysfunctioning.
Methodology of a Population-Based Stroke and TIA Incidence and Outcomes Study: The Auckland Regional Community Stroke Study (ARCOS IV) 2011–2012
Authors: Krishnamurthi Rita , Jones Amy , Barber P Alan , Barker-Collo Suzanne , McPherson Kathryn , Bennett Derrick , Rush Elaine , Suh Flora , Starkey Nicola , Theadom Alice , Parag Varsha , Rathnasabapathy Yogini , Feigin Valery L.
Published: October 2013

Background

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Stroke burden is immense as it leads to premature deaths, leaves survivors with ongoing disabilities, and has a major financial impact on the individual, their families, and the community. Reliable, high-quality evidence is needed on stroke risk factors, incidence, and outcomes to provide information on how best to reduce this burden. Population-based studies are regarded as the ‘gold-standard’ of measuring disease burden but are not common due to the logistical and financial challenges they present. The Auckland Regional Community Stroke Studies are among a few in the world that have been carried out at a population level and at regular intervals.

Aim

The aim of the fourth Auckland Regional Community Stroke Studies IV is to examine the current measures of stroke incidence, prevalence, and outcomes as well the trends over four decades. This article describes the methodology of the Auckland Regional Community Stroke Studies IV with stroke and transient ischemic attacks cases registered over a 12-month period from March 1, 2011 to February 29, 2012.

Conclusions

The methodology described may be used as a guide in order to design similar population-based stroke incidence and outcome studies in other countries and populations, thus facilitating the collection of most consistent and accurate stroke epidemiological data.
Assessment of oral hygiene and periodontal health around posterior primary molars after their restoration with various crown types
Authors: Beldüz Kara Nihal , Yilmaz Yucel
Published: October 2013

Objective

To compare the time‐dependent changes in oral hygiene and periodontal health after restoring primary posterior molars with a traditional stainless steel crown (SSC) or an aesthetic crown using various measures of periodontal health and oral hygiene.

Design

This investigation was a randomized, non‐blinded prospective controlled clinical trial in which 264 crowns of different types were fitted onto the first and/or second primary molars of 76 children. The oral hygiene and the gingival health of the restored teeth and the antagonistic teeth were evaluated clinically and radiographically at 3‐ and 6‐month intervals for 18 months after fitting the crowns.

Results

The periodontal health of the control teeth was better than that of the remaining 215 restored teeth. The oral hygiene, as measured by the simplified oral hygiene index, and gingival health, as measured by the gingival index and the volume of gingival crevicular fluid, of the restored teeth, irrespective of crown type, progressively increased during the 18‐month study period.

Conclusions

Oral hygiene and gingival health around a restored primary tooth deteriorate with time. Our results suggest that SSC, an open‐faced SSC, or a NuSmile® pediatric crown should be the preferred crown type for restoring posterior primary teeth.
Downstream horizontal integration and multiunit dealership
Authors: Martín‐Herrán Guiomar , Sigué Simon Pierre , Zaccour Georges
Published: October 2013

In this paper, a game theoretical model featuring a manufacturer and two dealers has been proposed to investigate the belief that horizontal integration in an established network and granting of regional multiunit dealership in a growing network improve the manufacturer's profit. Some of the main results are as follows: (1) the manufacturer and dealers are mutually better off when integration and multiunit dealership lead to an increase in consumer demand through higher prices and better investments in services and national advertising, (2) downstream integration and multiunit dealership harm the manufacturer's profit when the integrated dealer aims to free‐ride the manufacturer's brand or local service has no impact on consumer demand, (3) under certain conditions, both the manufacturer and dealers prefer downstream competition to integration regardless of whether it increases or reduces retail prices. Finally, mechanisms to implement horizontally integrated strategies in an established dealer network made of multiple single‐unit dealers such as the use of resale price maintenance (RPM), exclusive territory agreement, and dealer cuts are discussed.
ETIENNE BALIBAR and IMMANUEL WALLERSTEIN (eds.), Race, Nation, Class: Ambiguous Identities
Authors: KIM ANDREW E.
Published: October 2013

Book reviewed in this article:

VIC SATZEWICH, Racism and the Incorporation of Foreign Labour: Farm Labour Migration to Canada Since 1945
Micromechanics of ITZ–Aggregate Interaction in Concrete Part I: Stress Concentration
Authors: Königsberger Markus , Pichler Bernhard , Hellmich Christian
Published: October 2013

At the macroscopic scale, concrete appears as a composite made of a cement paste matrix with embedded aggregates. The latter are covered by interfacial transition zones (ITZs) of reduced stiffness and strength. Cracking in the ITZs is probably the key to the nonlinear stress–strain behavior in the prepeak regime. For a deeper understanding of this effect triggered by tensile microstress peaks, we here employ and extend the framework of continuum micromechanics, as to develop analytical solutions relating the macroscopic stresses acting on a piece of concrete, to microtractions at the aggregates' surfaces and to three‐dimensional stress states within the ITZs. In the latter context, a new aggregate‐to‐ITZ stress concentration tensor is derived based on the separation‐of‐scale principle, which implies that ITZs may be modeled as two‐dimensional interfaces at the concrete scale, but as three‐dimensional bulk phases at the scale of a few micrometers. Microtensile peaks occur both under uniaxial macroscopic tension and compression. To describe the respective microtraction and microstress fields, it is suitable to define aggregate's “poles” and “equator” by an “axis” through the aggregate center, directed in the uniaxial macroscopic loading direction. Accordingly, tensile microtraction peaks, induced by macro‐tension and macro‐compression, respectively, occur at the “poles” and at the “equator”, respectively. The largest tensile ITZ‐microstresses occur at an offset of about π/8 from the “poles” and the “equator”, respectively. These fields of microtractions and ITZ microstresses are prerequisites for upscaling ITZ‐related strength to the macroscopic concrete level, as presented in the companion paper (Part II).
Can Die Configuration Influence Field‐Assisted Sintering of Oxides in the SPS Process?
Authors: Raj Rishi , Rehman Ayazur
Published: October 2013

Spark plasma sintering (SPS) is a high current, low voltage process. Nevertheless, the system voltage (3–10 V) can be large enough to produce significant fields across a thin, insulating sample. A lumped circuit model is analyzed to estimate the magnitude of this field in terms of the die geometry. Normalizing the sample voltage with respect to the system voltage, and the die wall thickness to the punch radius preserves generality of the results. It is predicted that if the latter ranges from 0.15 to 0.25, then 30% of the system voltage may be expressed across the sample. Thus, a sample thickness of about 1–2 mm may experience a field of 10–30 V/cm, which would be large enough to induce field‐assisted sintering in yttria‐stabilized zirconia. The results are corroborated with finite element analysis. The contact resistance is assumed to be negligible; finite values of the contact resistance would lead to fields that are higher than predicted.
Bifactor latent structure of ADHD/ODD symptoms: predictions of dual‐pathway/trait‐impulsivity etiological models of ADHD
Authors: Leonard Burns G. , de Moura Marcela Alves , Beauchaine Theodore P. , McBurnett Keith
Published: October 2013

Objective

To determine if ADHD/ODD symptoms are better represented by a bifactor model of disruptive behavior [general disruptive behavior factor along with specific inattention (IN), specific hyperactivity/impulsivity (HI), and specific oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) factors] than an ADHD‐IN, ADHD‐HI, and ODD three‐factor model.

Method

Mothers' and fathers' ratings of ADHD‐IN, ADHD‐HI, and ODD symptoms in a community sample of 4,658 children and adolescents (53% female) from Brazil, Thailand, and the US were used to evaluate the measurement models.

Results

The bifactor model of disruptive behavior provided a better fit than the three factor model. The bifactor model also occurred with mothers' and fathers' ratings of male and female children and adolescents.

Conclusions

Consistent with predictions derived from recently articulated dual‐pathway and trait‐impulsivity models of externalizing liability, and from behavioral genetics studies indicating near complete overlap in vulnerability to ADHD and ODD, ADHD and ODD symptoms arose from a single, general disruptive behavior factor, which accounted for all of the variance in HI subscale scores and over half of the variance IN and ODD subscales. Thus, IN, HI, and ODD subscale scores strongly reflect a general disruptive behavior factor – not the specific content of their respective constructs.