bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic significance of the pN classification supplemented by body mass index for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Feixiang , Duan Hao , Cai Muyan , Fu Jianhua , Ma Guowei , Yang Han , Tan Zihui , Hu Ronggui , Lin Peng , Zhang Xu
Published: April 2015

Background

Body mass index (BMI) has been associated with the risk of esophageal cancer. But the influence of BMI on postoperative complications and prognosis has always been controversial.

Methods

Between 2000 and 2007, 424 patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) underwent R0 esophagectomy at our center without neoadjuvant therapy. We performed univariate and multivariate analyses to identify prognostic factors for survival.

Results

Patients were divided into three groups according to Asian‐specific BMI cut‐off value: underweight (n = 45), normal weight (n = 228), and overweight and obese (n = 151). Mean follow‐up time was 39 months. The five‐year overall survival (OS) rate was 19%, 34%, and 42% for underweight, normal weight, and overweight and obese, respectively (P < 0.001). The five‐year disease‐free survival (DFS) rate was 24%, 41%, and 74% for underweight, normal weight, and overweight and obese, respectively (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that pT, pN, and BMI were independent prognostic factors for DFS and OS. The C‐index to the combined model showed improved predictive ability when compared to the pN classification (0.779 vs. 0.734).

Conclusion

Preoperative BMI was an independent prognostic factor for OS and DFS. The proposed new prognostic model with the pN classification supplemented by BMI might improve the ability to discriminate ESCC patients' outcome.
Cocaine‐related stimuli impair inhibitory control in cocaine users following short stimulus onset asynchronies
Authors: Pike Erika , Marks Katherine R. , Stoops William W. , Rush Craig R.
Published: April 2015

Background and Aims

Cocaine users display a significant increase in inhibitory failures following cocaine‐related images compared with neutral images in a modified cued Go/No‐Go task, the Attentional Bias–Behavioral Activation (ABBA) task. The aim of this study was to demonstrate that stimulus onset asynchrony (SOA) impacts inhibitory failures on the ABBA task.

Design

A between‐subjects experiment.

Setting

An out‐patient research unit in the United States.

Participants

Ninety‐one cocaine users recruited from the community.

Measurements

Participants were assigned to groups in which they saw either cocaine (n = 46) or neutral (n = 45) images as the go condition. Cues were presented for one of five SOAs (i.e. 100, 200, 300, 400 or 500 ms) before a go or no‐go target was displayed.

Findings

Participants in the cocaine go condition had a significantly higher proportion of inhibitory failures to no‐go targets (F4,356 = 2.50, P = 0.04) with significantly more inhibitory failures following all SOAs (P < 0.05) than those in the neutral go condition. Within the cocaine go condition, significantly more inhibitory failures were observed following the 100 and 200 ms SOAs than after the 300, 400 or 500 ms SOAs (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Cocaine‐related stimuli appear to decrease inhibitory control in cocaine users at short (100 and 200 ms) stimulus onset asynchronies (SOAs: the amount of time between the start of one stimulus and the start of another stimulus), but not at longer (300, 400 and 500 ms) SOAs.
Dry season watering alters the significance of climate factors influencing phenology and growth of saplings of savanna woody species in centralZambia, southernAfrica
Authors: Chidumayo Emmanuel
Published: April 2015

Although tree growth in southernAfrican savannas is correlated with rainfall in the wet season, some studies have shown that tree growth is controlled more by rainfall in the dry season. If more rainfall occurred in the dry season in future climates, it would affect the growth of savanna trees, especially saplings that have shallower roots which limit access to subsoil water during the dry season when leaf flush and shoot extension occur. Recent paleobotanical evidence has revealed that there was relatively more precipitation in the dry season in easternAfrica in the Eocene than under the current climate. Saplings therefore can be expected to respond more to water addition during the dry season than mature trees that have more stored water and deeper roots that access subsoil water. Accordingly,Ihypothesized that irrigation in the dry season should (i) advance the onset of the growing season, (ii) increase growth rates and (iii) alter the growth responses of saplings to climate factors. To test these hypotheses saplings of five savanna woody species were irrigated during the hot‐dry season at a site in centralZambia and their monthly and annual growth rates compared to those of conspecifics growing under control conditions. Although the responses among the species were variable, all irrigated saplings had significantly higher monthly and annual growth rates than control plants. In addition, dry season watering significantly altered the climatic determinants of sapling growth by either strengthening the role of the same climatic factors that were important under control conditions or displacing them altogether. In conclusion, more precipitation during the hot‐dry season is likely to have significant positive effects on sapling growth and consequently reduce the sapling‐tree transition periods and promote future tree population recruitment in some southern African savanna tree species.
2ME2 increase radiation‐induced apoptosis of keloid fibroblasts by targeting HIF‐1α in vitro
Authors: Long Fei , Si Loubin , Long Xiao , Yang Bob , Wang Xiaojun , Zhang Fuquan
Published: April 2015

Background

Radiation therapy is considered to be a treatment for keloid scarring; however, radioresistance has been shown to be a serious impediment to treatment efficacy. There is therefore a need for the discovery of novel critical molecular targets whose inhibition might enhance the radiotherapeutic response. An elevated level of hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)‐1α expression after radiation therapy in keloid fibroblasts has been demonstrated in our recent experiments. Therefore, we suggested there was a possible close relationship between HIF‐1α and keloid radioresistance. The current study aimed to investigate whether target HIF‐1α may enhance the radiotherapeutic efficacy of keloids.

Methods

2‐methoxyestradiol (2ME2) was applied to inhibit HIF‐1α expression, and the treatment results were assessed by cell proliferation, apoptosis and radiosensitivity. A lentivirus‐mediated small interfering RNA (siRNA) transduction method was used to block the expression of HIF‐1α gene.

Results

Both mRNA and protein levels can be effectively inhibited after the knockdown of HIF‐1α, leading to a significant increase of radiation‐induced apoptosis in keloid fibroblasts. Our experiment also demonstrated that 2ME2 could effectively inhibit the protein expression of HIF‐1α, which significantly increased the late stage of radiation‐induced apoptosis of keloid fibroblasts.

Conclusions

The present study indicates that HIF‐1α might serve as a therapeutic target for keloids. Furthermore, suppression of HIF‐1α by 2ME2 may be a promising therapeutic adjuvant in radiation therapy for keloids.
Anti‐Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibody titres correlate well with disease activity in children with Crohn's disease
Authors: El‐Matary Wael , Dupuis Karine , Sokoro AbdulRazaq
Published: April 2015

Aim

The role of noninvasive biologic markers for disease activity is very important in children with Crohn's disease. The aim of this study was to assess an association between disease activity and quantitative serum anti‐Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibody (ASCA) titres.

Methods

Anti‐Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibody immunoglobulin (Ig) A and immunoglobulin G titres, paediatric Crohn's disease activity index (PCDAI), serum albumin and C‐reactive protein (CRP) were repeatedly measured simultaneously in children with Crohn's disease. A possible association between ASCA IgA and IgG titres and changes in PCDAI was examined.

Results

Serial 136 measurements of ASCA IgA and IgG titres were documented in 57 children with Crohn's disease over a mean duration of 3.1 ± 2.1 years. In a univariate linear regression model, there were significant correlations between ASCA IgA titres and PCDAI (p < 0.001), CRP (p <0.01) and low serum albumin (p < 0.001), respectively. Similarly, ASCA IgG titres significantly correlated with PCDAI, CRP and low serum albumin.

Conclusion

Both ASCA IgA and IgG titres seemed to correlate well with clinical Crohn's disease activity in children. Measuring these antibodies may be considered during routine clinical care for those patients.
The renal protective effect of angiotensin receptor blockers depends on intra‐individual response variation in multiple risk markers
Authors: Schievink Bauke , de Zeeuw Dick , Parving Hans‐Henrik , Rossing Peter , Lambers Heerspink Hiddo Jan
Published: April 2015

Aims

Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are renoprotective and targeted to blood pressure. However, ARBs have multiple other (off‐target) effects which may affect renal outcome. It is unknown whether on‐target and off‐target effects are congruent within individuals. If not, this variation in short term effects may have important implications for the prediction of individual long term renal outcomes. Our aim was to assess intra‐individual variability in multiple parameters in response to ARBs in type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Changes in systolic blood pressure (SBP), albuminuria, potassium, haemoglobin, cholesterol and uric acid after 6 months of losartan treatment were assessed in the RENAAL database. Improvement in predictive performance of renal outcomes (ESRD or doubling serum creatinine) for each individual using ARB‐induced changes in all risk markers was assessed by the relative integrative discrimination index (RIDI).

Results

SBP response showed high variability (mean –5.7 mmHg, 5th to 95th percentile –36.5 to +24.0 mmHg) between individuals. Changes in off‐target parameters also showed high variability between individuals. No congruency was observed between responses to losartan in multiple parameters within individuals. Using individual responses in all risk markers significantly improved renal risk prediction (RIDI 30.4%, P < 0.01) compared with using only SBP changes. Results were successfully replicated in two independent trials with irbesartan, IDNT and IRMA‐2.

Conclusions

In this post hoc analysis we showed that ARBs have multiple off‐target effects which vary between and within individuals. Combining all ARB‐induced responses beyond SBP provides a more accurate prediction of who will benefit from ARB therapy. Prospective trials are required to validate these findings.
Opposite malaria and pregnancy effect on oral bioavailability of artesunate – a population pharmacokinetic evaluation
Authors: Kloprogge Frank , McGready Rose , Phyo Aung Pyae , Rijken Marcus J. , Hanpithakpon Warunee , Than Hla Hla , Hlaing Nathar , Zin Naw Thida , Day Nicholas P. J. , White Nicholas J. , Nosten François , Tarning Joel
Published: April 2015

Aim

The aim was to compare the pharmacokinetic properties of artesunate and dihydroartemisinin in the same women: i) pregnant with acute uncomplicated malaria on day 1 and 2, ii) pregnant with convalescent malaria on day 7 and iii) in a healthy state 3 months post‐partum on day 1, 2 and 7.

Methods

Non‐linear mixed‐effects modelling was used to compare plasma concentration–time profiles of artesunate and dihydroartemisinin over 7 days of treatment following oral and intravenous artesunate administration to pregnant women with uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria during their second or third trimesters of pregnancy. The same women were restudied 3 months after delivery when fully recovered. Non‐compartmental results of the same study have been published previously.

Results

Twenty pregnant patients on the Thailand‐Myanmar border were studied and 15 volunteered to be restudied 3 months post‐partum. Malaria and pregnancy had no effect on the pharmacokinetic properties of artesunate or dihydroartemisinin after intravenous artesunate administration. However, malaria and pregnancy had opposite effects on the absorption of orally administered artesunate. Malaria increased the absolute oral bioavailability of artesunate by 87%, presumably by inhibiting first pass effect, whereas pregnancy decreased oral bioavailability by 23%.

Conclusions

The population pharmacokinetic analysis demonstrated opposite effects of malaria and pregnancy on the bioavailability of orally administered artesunate. Lower drug exposures during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy may contribute to lower cure rates and thus the development of drug resistance. Dose optimization studies are required for artesunate containing artemisinin‐based combination therapies (ACTs) in later pregnancy.
The brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) Val66Met polymorphism is associated with increased body mass index and insulin resistance measures in bipolar disorder and schizophrenia
Authors: Bonaccorso Stefania , Sodhi Monsheel , Li Jiang , Bobo William V , Chen Yuejin , Tumuklu Mevhibe , Theleritis Christos , Jayathilake Karuna , Meltzer Herbert Y
Published: April 2015

Objectives

We tested the hypothesis that a common functional variant in brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), Val66Met, which has been shown to be associated with increased body mass index (BMI) in schizophrenia (SCZ) and schizoaffective disorder (SAD), is also associated with antipsychotic‐induced weight gain in bipolar disorder (BPD). Association of Val66Met with other metabolic measures, including high‐ and low‐density cholesterol, triglycerides, total cholesterol, fasting blood glucose, and hemoglobin A1c, was also tested.

Methods

This was a 12‐month, prospective, randomized trial of two atypical antipsychotic drugs (APDs) with moderate (risperidone) or high (olanzapine) risk to cause weight gain. Subjects were diagnosed as having BPD (n = 90) and SCZ or SAD (n = 76).

Results

BMI was significantly greater in all diagnoses for Met66 allele carriers at six months (p = 0.01). Met66 carriers with BPD showed a greater increase in the triglycerides/high‐density (HDL) cholesterol ratio (p = 0.01), a key marker for metabolic syndrome related to insulin resistance, and log‐triglycerides (p = 0.04), after three or six months of treatment. Met66 carriers had the greatest increase in log‐triglycerides (p = 0.03) and triglycerides/HDL cholesterol ratio after three months of treatment with risperidone (p = 0.003), and the highest BMI at six months (p = 0.01).

Conclusions

The positive association of BNDF Val66Met with high BMI values replicates previous findings in patients with SCZ and indicates the BDNF Val66Met genotype as a potential risk factor for obesity and insulin resistance measures in patients with BPD receiving antipsychotics as well.
Bad Blood Revisited: Attachment and Psychoanalysis, 2015
Authors: Fonagy Peter , Campbell Chloe
Published: April 2015

This article attempts to trace the intellectual history of the relationship between attachment theory and psychoanalytic thinking, and considers where we are now in the discourse between the two fields. We describe some of the points of convergence, as well as areas of continuing contention, and suggest future directions for attachment work which have a bearing on its relationship with psychoanalysis. In particular, mentalizing theory is discussed as a line of thinking that draws on both attachment ideas and psychoanalysis; recent developments in mentalizing are described within an argument about the future development of attachment thinking. Two constructs connected to attachment and mentalizing, epistemic trust and the concept of a general factor in psychopathology, are discussed along with the implications of these ideas for thinking about the common factors that effective psychotherapeutic interventions share.
Attachment Theory in Clinical Practice: A Personal Account
Authors: Holmes Jeremy
Published: April 2015

Attachment theory was built by Bowlby as an attempt to link psychoanalysis with the wider world of ethology, cybernetics and evolutionary theory. Initially rejected by the psychoanalytic establishment there has been a gradual rapprochement. This paper attempts to accelerate this process by laying out the points of overlap and distinction between the attachment and psychoanalytic perspectives on clinical treatment. It summarizes the main tenets of attachment theory and then looks in detail at the therapeutic alliance, classification, transference/countertransference, and interpretation and mentalizing from an attachment perspective. A clinical example illustrates how insecure and secure attachment play out in the consulting room, and the paper ends by suggesting that attachment provides a suitable evidence base for the relational/Independent psychoanalytic approach.
‘And the best essay is…’: Extended contact and cross‐group friendships at school
Authors: Vezzali Loris , Stathi Sofia , Giovannini Dino , Capozza Dora , Visintin Emilio Paolo
Published: April 2015

We conducted one experimental intervention based on extended contact principles aimed at fostering the formation of cross‐group friendships within educational settings. Italian school children took part in a school competition for the best essay on personal experiences of cross‐group friendships with immigrants, to be written in small groups. This manipulation was intended to favour the exchange of personal positive cross‐group experiences, thus capitalizing on the benefits of extended contact. In the control condition, participants wrote an essay on friendship, without reference to cross‐group relations. Results revealed that children who took part in the intervention reported a higher number of outgroup friends 3 months later. This indirect effect was sequentially mediated by pro‐contact ingroup and outgroup norms and by outgroup contact behavioural intentions. This study provides experimental evidence that interventions based on extended contact can foster cross‐group friendship formation. Theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed.
A general proof of consistency of heuristic classification for cognitive diagnosis models
Authors: Chiu Chia‐Yi , Köhn Hans‐Friedrich
Published: April 2015

The Asymptotic Classification Theory of Cognitive Diagnosis (Chiu et al., 2009, Psychometrika, 74, 633–665) determined the conditions that cognitive diagnosis models must satisfy so that the correct assignment of examinees to proficiency classes is guaranteed when non‐parametric classification methods are used. These conditions have only been proven for the Deterministic Input Noisy Output AND gate model. For other cognitive diagnosis models, no theoretical legitimization exists for using non‐parametric classification techniques for assigning examinees to proficiency classes. The specific statistical properties of different cognitive diagnosis models require tailored proofs of the conditions of the Asymptotic Classification Theory of Cognitive Diagnosis for each individual model – a tedious undertaking in light of the numerous models presented in the literature. In this paper a different way is presented to address this task. The unified mathematical framework of general cognitive diagnosis models is used as a theoretical basis for a general proof that under mild regularity conditions any cognitive diagnosis model is covered by the Asymptotic Classification Theory of Cognitive Diagnosis.
Toolkit‐Based Modelling and Serious Play as Means to Foster Creativity in Innovation Processes
Authors: Schulz Klaus‐Peter , Geithner Silke , Woelfel Christian , Krzywinski Jens
Published: April 2015

In this article we describe and discuss means that foster the emergence of innovation through representational methods which interrelate manual modeling with playfulness. Based on the observation that demands to innovation processes have changed significantly in recent years due to changed collaboration forms, like co‐configuration or open innovation, we look for a methodological approach able to deal with such collaboration forms. We describe and discuss a methodological approach on how innovation processes in heterogeneous – interdisciplinary, cross‐functional and interorganizational – groups can be kicked off to bring about collectively shared understanding, as well as the ability to develop creative ideas. The approach relies on a playful modeling methodology, which is based on the hands‐on creation of visualizations and physical models in connection with their verbal explanation and narration. With reference to two case studies we report and discuss experiences of applying the methodology.
The Caregiving Environment and Developmental Outcomes of Preterm Infants: Diathesis Stress or Differential Susceptibility Effects?
Authors: Gueron‐Sela Noa , Atzaba‐Poria Naama , Meiri Gal , Marks Kyla
Published: April 2015

The interactions between premature birth and the caregiving environment on infants' cognitive and social functioning were examined. Participants were 150 infants (83 preterm, 67 full‐term) and their parents. When infants were 6 months old, parents reported on their levels of emotional distress, and triadic family interactions were filmed and coded. At 12 months of age, the infants' cognitive and social functioning was assessed. Prematurity moderated the effects of maternal (but not paternal) emotional distress and triadic interactions on infants' cognitive and social outcomes. Whereas for cognitive functioning the interactions were consistent with a diathesis–stress approach, for social functioning the interactions were consistent with a differential susceptibility approach. The differential effects of the caregiving environment between groups and outcomes are discussed.
Differences in Healing Patterns of the Bone‐Implant Interface between Immediately and Delayed‐Placed Titanium Implants in Mouse Maxillae
Authors: Watanabe Taisuke , Nakagawa Eizo , Saito Kotaro , Ohshima Hayato
Published: April 2015

Background

There are no available data on the healing process at the bone‐implant interface after immediate implant placement.

Purpose

This study aimed to establish an animal experimental model of titanium implants placed in mouse maxillae and compare the healing pattern of the bone‐implant interface after immediate implant placement with that after delayed implant placement.

Materials and Methods

Maxillary first molars (M1) from 4‐week‐old mice were extracted and replaced with the implant following drilling (immediate‐placement group). In contrast, M1 from 2‐week‐old mice were extracted, followed by drilling and implantation after 4 weeks (delayed‐placement group). The decalcified samples at 0–28 days after implantation were processed by immunohistochemistry, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP nick end labeling assay, and tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase histochemistry. The elements and bone volume of undecalcified samples were quantitatively analyzed by an electron probe microanalyzer.

Results

Osseointegration was completed by 28 days after the procedure in both groups. There were no differences in contact area, bone loss at the cervical area, or rate of calcification at the bone‐implant interface between the two groups.

Conclusions

This study found no significant differences in the chronological healing process at the bone‐implant interface between the two groups at the cellular level.
Titanium Granules for Augmentation of the Maxillary Sinus – A Multicenter Study
Authors: Lyngstadaas Ståle Petter , Verket Anders , Pinholt Else Marie , Mertens Christian , Haanæs Hans Reidar , Wall Gert , Wallström Mats , Rasmusson Lars
Published: April 2015

Background

Biomaterials are commonly used to augment the maxillary sinus floor prior to or in conjunction with dental implant installation. Recently, porous titanium granules (PTGs) have been used in oral implant surgery to stabilize implants and function as an osteoconductive matrix.

Purpose

To evaluate if PTGs can be safely used in a larger population of patients, treated by different surgeons, when sinus floor augmentation was required in conjunction with implant installation. The primary endpoint was 12‐month survival rate of the dental implants. Biopsies for histology were taken from the augmented area.

Materials and Methods

At five centers, 40 subjects with uni or bilateral posterior edentulism and atrophy of the posterior maxilla (3–6 mm) were enrolled. In a single‐stage procedure, PTG and one to three dental implants were installed in each quadrant. In total, 70 implants were included in the study.

Results

One immobile implant was removed. The mean marginal bone loss was 0.5 mm and 0.8 mm, on the mesial and distal side, respectively. Histologically, all biopsies demonstrated bone ingrowth.

Conclusions

The results suggest that PTG can be safely and effectively used as augmentation material in the sinus floor when used with dental implants in a one‐stage procedure.
Online Survey Data Quality and Its Implication for Willingness‐to‐Pay: A Cross‐Country Comparison
Authors: Gao Zhifeng , House Lisa A. , Xie Jing
Published: April 2015

Using online surveys to elicit consumer preference is gaining popularity because of several advantages offered by this method. Past research mainly focuses on the comparison between online surveys and other survey modes. Few have explored methods of using online survey tools to improve data quality for consumer willingness‐to‐pay (WTP) estimates. This article determines the impact of using a validation question (VQ) approach that asked survey respondents to select a particular answer on improving online survey data quality across six countries. Results show that survey data quality is a common problem in online surveys across countries and the severity of this problem differs significantly. Using VQs might detect the respondents who are less careful in answering survey questions, thus providing less reliable answers. The econometric models for respondents who correctly answer VQs (pass VQs) perform significantly better than the models for respondents who incorrectly answer VQs (fail VQs). The WTP estimates for respondents who pass and fail VQs differ significantly; and in general the WTP estimates for respondents passing VQs have smaller variances than those for all respondents and for respondents failing VQs.
Impact of metabolic disorders on the relation between overweight/obesity and incident myocardial infarction and ischaemic stroke in fertile women: a nationwide cohort study
Authors: Andersen S. S. , Andersson C. , Berger S. M. , Jensen T. B. , Torp‐Pedersen C. T. , Gislason G. H. , Køber L. , Schmiegelow M. D.
Published: April 2015

Aims

Whether overweight is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease in the absence of metabolic disorders remains under debate and is largely unexamined in young women. We evaluated the risk of myocardial infarction and ischaemic stroke in fertile women conditional on time‐dependent presence of metabolic disorders.

Materials and methods

From nationwide registers we identified all normal weight (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 18.5 to <25 kg m−2) and overweight (BMI ≥ 25 kg m−2) Danish women giving birth from 2004 to 2009. Using multivariable Poisson regression models adjusted for age, calendar year and smoking, the risk of the composite outcome of myocardial infarction and ischaemic stroke was assessed with metabolic disorders (i.e. hypertensive conditions, abnormal glucose metabolism and/or dyslipidaemia) included as time‐dependent variables.

Results

The population comprised 261 489 women with median age of 30.5 years (interquartile range = [27.3, 33.8] ). Median follow‐up was 5.6 years (interquartile range = [4.0, 6.8] ). Compared with normal weight women without metabolic disorders (with an incidence rate [IR] of 17.0 [95% confidence interval {CI} = 14.5–20.0] events per 100 000 person‐years), overweight women without metabolic disorders had no significantly increased risk, IR 22.6 (CI = 18.3–27.8), adjusted incidence rate ratio (IRR), 1.26 (CI = 0.97–1.65). For women with metabolic disorders, IR was 30.2 (CI = 18.8–48.6) and adjusted IRR 1.77 (CI = 1.07–2.93) in normal weight, while IR was 87.1 (CI = 67.6–112.2) and IRR 4.24 (CI = 5 3.11–5.79) in overweight.

Conclusions

The risk of myocardial infarction and ischaemic stroke was more strongly associated with the presence of metabolic disorders than with overweight per se in fertile women. Targeting prevention of metabolic disorders might be beneficial to reduce cardiovascular disease in overweight/obese young women.
Oligosaccharide modification by N‐acetylglucosaminyltransferase‐V in macrophages are involved in pathogenesis of bleomycin‐induced scleroderma
Authors: Kato Arisa , Yutani Mizuki , Terao Mika , Kimura Akihiro , Itoi Saori , Murota Hiroyuki , Miyoshi Eiji , Katayama Ichiro
Published: April 2015

Oligosaccharide modification by N‐acetylglucosaminyltransferase‐V (GnT‐V), which catalyses the formation of β1,6 GlcNAc (N‐acetylglucosamine) branches on N‐glycans, is associated with various pathologies, such as cancer metastasis, multiple sclerosis and liver fibrosis. In this study, we demonstrated the involvement of GnT‐V in the pathophysiology of scleroderma. High expression of GnT‐V was observed in infiltrating cells in skin section samples from systemic and localized patients with scleroderma. Most of the infiltrating cells were T cells and macrophages, most of which were CD163+ M2 macrophages. To determine the role of GnT‐V in scleroderma, we next investigated skin sclerosis in GnT‐V knockout (MGAT5−/−) mice. Expression of GnT‐V was also elevated in bleomycin (BLM)‐injected sclerotic skin, and MGAT5−/− mice were resistant to BLM‐induced skin sclerosis with reduced collagen type 1 α1 content, suggesting the biological significance of GnT‐V in skin sclerosis. Furthermore, the number of CD163+ M2 macrophages and CD3‐positive T cells in BLM‐induced skin sclerosis was significantly fewer in MGAT5−/− mice. In bone marrow‐derived macrophages (BMDMs), IL‐4‐induced expressions of Fizz1 and Ym1 were significantly reduced in MGAT5−/− mice‐derived BMDMs. Taken together, these results suggest the induction of GnT‐V in skin sclerosis progression is possibly dependent on increased numbers of M2 macrophages in the skin, which are important for tissue fibrosis and remodelling.
Mechanical coupling of cytoskeletal elasticity and force generation is crucial for understanding the migrating nature of keloid fibroblasts
Authors: Harn Hans I‐Chen , Wang Yang‐Kao , Hsu Chao‐Kai , Ho Yen‐Ting , Huang Yi‐Wei , Chiu Wen‐Tai , Lin Hsi‐Hui , Cheng Chao‐Min , Tang Ming‐Jer
Published: April 2015

One of the key features of keloid is its fibroblasts migrating beyond the original wound border. During migration, cells not only undergo molecular changes but also mechanical modulation. This process is led by actin filaments serving as the backbone of intra‐cellular force and transduces external mechanical signal via focal adhesion complex into the cell. Here, we focus on determining the mechanical changes of actin filaments and the spatial distribution of forces in response to changing chemical stimulations and during cell migration. Atomic force microscopy and micropost array detector are used to determine and compare the magnitude and distribution of filament elasticity and force generation in fibroblasts and keloid fibroblasts. We found both filament elasticity and force generation show spatial distribution in a polarized and migrating cell. Such spatial distribution is disrupted when mechano‐signalling is perturbed by focal adhesion kinase inhibitor and in keloid fibroblasts. The demonstration of keloid pathology at the nanoscale highlights the coupling of cytoskeletal function with physical characters at the subcellular level and provides new research directions for migration‐related disease such as keloid.
South‐South Migration for Domestic Work and Poverty
Authors: Deshingkar Priya , Zeitlyn Benjamin
Published: April 2015

Migration for domestic work has become the subject of intense debate among international human rights organisations and policy makers concerned with the welfare of workers who are predominantly women from poor and historically disadvantaged communities. This paper is a review of the literature on South‐South migration for domestic work, undertaken to assess the evidence base that underpins this debate. It shows that there is little discussion of the reasons for such migration and the impact that it has on households at origin. There is an assumption that domestic workers are driven by poverty into occupations that entrench poverty. The literature is dominated by papers focusing on the shortcomings of legal frameworks for regulating working conditions and recruitment practices, resulting in extremely exploitative conditions of employment. Although a few papers discuss worker agency, these are clearly not influencing policy debates, which continue to treat migrant domestic workers as victims. There is a dearth of research on the impacts of migration on households at origin; a significant gap in the literature given that migration is often a household strategy intended to access more remunerative employment and remit money home.
Acute Migraine Treatment in Adults
Authors: Becker Werner J.
Published: April 2015

There are many options for acute migraine attack treatment, but none is ideal for all patients. This study aims to review current medical office‐based acute migraine therapy in adults and provides readers with an organized approach to this important facet of migraine treatment. A general literature review includes a review of several recent published guidelines. Acetaminophen, 4 nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (ibuprofen, acetylsalicylic acid [ASA], naproxen sodium, and diclofenac potassium), and 7 triptans (almotriptan, eletriptan, frovatriptan, naratriptan, rizatriptan, sumatriptan, and zolmitriptan) have good evidence for efficacy and form the core of acute migraine treatment. NSAID–triptan combinations, dihydroergotamine, non‐opioid combination analgesics (acetaminophen, ASA, and caffeine), and several anti‐emetics (metoclopramide, domperidone, and prochlorperazine) are additional evidence‐based options. Opioid containing combination analgesics may be helpful in specific patients, but should not be used routinely. Clinical features to be considered when choosing an acute migraine medication include usual headache intensity, usual rapidity of pain intensity increase, nausea, vomiting, degree of disability, patient response to previously used medications, history of headache recurrence with previous attacks, and the presence of contraindications to specific acute medications. Available acute medications can be organized into 4 treatment strategies, including a strategy for attacks of mild to moderate severity (strategy one: acetaminophen and/or NSAIDs), a triptan strategy for patients with severe attacks and for attacks not responding to strategy one, a refractory attack strategy, and a strategy for patients with contraindications to vasoconstricting drugs. Acute treatment of migraine attacks during pregnancy, lactation, and for patients with chronic migraine is also discussed. In chronic migraine, it is particularly important that medication overuse is eliminated or avoided. Migraine treatment is complex, and treatment must be individualized and tailored to the patient's clinical features. Clinicians should make full use of available medications and formulations in an organized approach.
The Reliability of Assigned Values from the GeoPT Proficiency Testing Programme from an Evaluation of Data for Six Test Materials that have been Characterised as Certified Reference Materials
Authors: Potts Philip J. , Thompson Michael , Webb Peter C.
Published: April 2015

Assigned values derived from the GeoPT proficiency testing programme were compared with certified values for six certified reference materials that have been used as test materials in the GeoPT programme. Statistical analysis showed that there were few significant differences between these sets of data and that these differences had no significant impact on the GeoPT assessment when fitness‐for‐purpose criteria were taken into account.
Developments in TEM Nanotomography of Calcium Silicate Hydrate
Authors: Taylor Rae , Sakdinawat Anne , Chae Sejung R. , Wenk Haz‐Rudolf , Levitz Pierre , Sougrat Rachid , Monteiro Paulo J.M.
Published: April 2015

This investigation was designed to explore the possibility of using transmission electron microscope (TEM) tomography on cement‐based systems gain a greater understanding of their nanostructure and pore network. The preliminary results show a clearly a well‐defined pore network at the nanoscale, with pore size approximately 1.7–2.4 nm in diameter and spaced around 5–8 nm apart. A comparison of small angle X‐ray scattering data with 2‐D TEM images analyzed with the Fourier slice theorem documents an excellent structural correlation.
Postcasting Contraction: Improving the Density of Gelcast Nanoparticle Green Bodies with Heated Liquid Desiccants
Authors: Wang Xiaofeng , Wang Richu , Feng Yan , Zhang Dou , Peng Chaoqun
Published: April 2015

To achieve high‐density green bodies, a novel route without needing high solids loading suspensions, that is postcontraction process has been developed. In this process, the wet green body is immersed in heated liquid desiccants (polyethylene glycol [PEG] aqueous solution), which is prepared by gelcasting with thermoresponsive gel system. The density of green bodies is improved through releasing water quickly and shrinking rapidly. It is attributed to the cooperative action of the interior aggregation forces stemming from the shrinkage of network‐structured polymer and the exterior osmotic pressure from PEG aqueous solution. Alumina nanoparticle green bodies with different solids loadings were prepared by gelcasting with PNIPAM Poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) gel system. The postcontraction process was almost completed in 30 min in liquid at 50°C, and meanwhile the bodies were almost dried. The relative densities of all green bodies and sintered parts are in accordance with each other, around 43% and 94%, respectively.
Influence of periodontal tissue thickness on buccal plate remodelling on immediate implants with xenograft
Authors: Maia Luciana P. , Reino Danilo M. , Muglia Valdir A. , Almeida Adriana L. G. , Nanci Antonio , Wazen Rima M. , de Oliveira Paulo T. , Palioto Daniela B. , Novaes Arthur B.
Published: April 2015

Aim

To evaluate the influence of gingival thickness and bone grafting on buccal bone plate remodelling after immediate implant placement in sockets with thin buccal bone, using a flapless approach.

Materials and Methods

The gingiva of eight dogs was thinned at one side of the mandible, mandibular premolars were extracted without flaps, and four implants were installed on each side at 1.5 mm from the buccal bone. The sites were randomly assigned into: TG (test group) = thin gingiva; TG + GM (TG with grafting material); CG (control group) = normal gingiva; and CG + GM (CG with grafting material). After 12 weeks the dogs were sacrificed and the samples were processed for histological analysis.

Results

All animals exhibited a thin buccal bone initially. In all the experimental groups the buccal gap was filled with newly formed bone and the buccal bone level was slightly apical to the implant shoulder. There were no statistically significant differences among the groups for the histomorphometric parameters.

Conclusions

The thickness of the buccal bone was a fundamental factor in buccal bone plate resorption, even with flapless implantation. The gingival thickness or the addition of a biomaterial in the gap did not influence the results.
Sex differences in the association between foetal growth and child attention at age four: specific vulnerability of girls
Authors: Murray Elizabeth , Matijasevich Alicia , Santos Iná S. , Barros Aluísio J.D. , Anselmi Luciana , Barros Fernando C. , Stein Alan
Published: April 2015

Background

Recent evidence suggests that impaired foetal growth may provide an early indication of increased risk of child attention problems. However, despite both foetal growth and child attention problems differing by sex, few studies have examined sex differences in this association. Furthermore, no studies have been conducted in low‐ and middle‐income countries, where there are higher rates of perinatal problems. This study aimed to test for sex differences in the association between foetal growth indices and attention problems at age four, in a large, prospective birth cohort from a middle‐income country.

Methods

A total of 3,749 neonates from the 2004 Pelotas birth cohort (Brazil) with foetal growth indices collected at birth [low birthweight (LBW), small‐for‐gestational age (SGA), head circumference (HC), head circumference‐to‐abdominal circumference ratio (HC/AC) and ponderal index (PI)], were assessed for attention problems using the Child Behaviour Checklist at age four. Ordinal logistic regression with successive adjustment for maternal, demographic, gestational, perinatal and child nutrition/mother–child morbidity, was conducted separately for girls and boys.

Results

In girls, attention difficulties were associated with being born SGA (OR = 1.40, CI = 1.08–1.82, p = .012), with a small HC (OR = 1.52, CI = 1.11–2.08, p = .009), or with a low PI (OR = 1.29, CI = 1.08–1.54, p = .005). There were no associations identified between attention difficulties and any foetal growth indices in boys.

Conclusions

Our results show that girls with impaired foetal growth may be particularly at risk of attention difficulties in childhood. This is consistent with emerging research that female foetuses may be more vulnerable to certain suboptimal intrauterine environments, inducing epigenetic changes that lead to disturbed growth and long‐term developmental impairment.
Thrombocytopenia associated with Mycoplasma pneumonia during pregnancy: Case presentation and approach for differential diagnosis
Authors: Nishikawa Aiko , Mimura Kazuya , Kanagawa Takeshi , Maeda Tetsuo , Tomimatsu Takuji , Kimura Tadashi
Published: April 2015

Thrombocytopenia during pregnancy has many different causes, but Mycoplasma pneumoniae is not usually considered one of the several pathogens that induce thrombocytopenia. Herein, we present a case of severe thrombocytopenia that was associated with M. pneumoniae during pregnancy. The patient experienced fever, cough, and cytopenia with M. pneumoniae‐specific IgM antibody increasing from 40‐fold to 160‐fold during the 2 weeks of illness. A diagnosis was made after excluding other diseases that cause thrombocytopenia. The patient was successfully treated with azithromycin hydrate, and she delivered a healthy newborn without any complications. Pregnant women who are infected with M. pneumoniae during pregnancy may develop severe and fatal thrombocytopenia. Prompt diagnosis and initiation of treatment lead to early recovery.
The effectiveness of workplace coaching: A meta‐analysis of learning and performance outcomes from coaching
Authors: Jones Rebecca J. , Woods Stephen A. , Guillaume Yves R. F.
Published: April 2015

This study presents a meta‐analysis synthesizing the existing research on the effectiveness of workplace coaching. We exclusively explore workplace coaching provided by internal or external coaches and therefore exclude cases of manager–subordinate and peer coaching. We propose a framework of potential outcomes from coaching in organizations, which we examine meta‐analytically (k = 17). Our analyses indicated that coaching had positive effects on organizational outcomes overall (δ = 0.36), and on specific forms of outcome criteria (skill‐based δ = 0.28; affective δ = 0.51; individual‐level results δ = 1.24). We also examined moderation by a number of coaching practice factors (use of multisource feedback; type of coach; coaching format; longevity of coaching). Our analyses of practice moderators indicated a significant moderation of effect size for type of coach (with effects being stronger for internal coaches compared to external coaches) and use of multisource feedback (with the use of multisource feedback resulting in smaller positive effects). We found no moderation of effect size by coaching format (comparing face‐to‐face, with blended face‐to‐face and e‐coaching) or duration of coaching (number of sessions or longevity of intervention). The effect sizes give support to the potential utility of coaching in organizations. Implications for coaching research and practice are discussed.

Practitioner points

Our meta‐analysis supports the positive effects of workplace coaching as an approach to employee learning and development in organizations, with a variety of criteria.

Our findings indicate that coaching was more effective when conducted by internal coaches and when multisource feedback was excluded.

Workplace coaching was effective whether conducted face‐to‐face or using blended techniques (i.e., blending face‐to‐face with e‐coaching).
The cost of long‐term follow‐up of high‐risk infants for research studies
Authors: Doyle Lex W , Clucas Luisa , Roberts Gehan , Davis Noni , Duff Julianne , Callanan Catherine , McDonald Marion , Anderson Peter J , Cheong Jeanie LY
Published: April 2015

Aims

Neonatal intensive care is expensive, and thus it is essential that its long‐term outcomes are measured. The costs of follow‐up studies for high‐risk children who survive are unknown. This study aims to determine current costs for the assessment of health and development of children followed up in our research programme.

Methods

Costs were determined for children involved in the research follow‐up programme at the Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, over the 6‐month period between 1st January 2012 and 30th June 2012. The time required for health professionals involved in assessments in early and later childhood was estimated, and converted into dollar costs. Costs for equipment and data management were added. Estimated costs were compared with actual costs of running the research follow‐up programme.

Results

A total of 134 children were assessed over the 6‐month period. The estimated average cost per child assessed was $1184, much higher than was expected. The estimated cost to assess a toddler was $1149, whereas for an 11‐year‐old it was $1443, the difference attributable to the longer psychological and paediatric assessments. The actual average cost per child assessed was $1623. The shortfall of $439 between the actual and estimated average costs per child arose chiefly because of the need to pay staff even when participants were late or failed to attend.

Conclusions

The average costs of assessing children at each age for research studies are much higher than expected. These data are useful for planning similar long‐term follow‐up assessments for high‐risk children.