bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinicopathological features of advanced colorectal serrated lesions: A single‐center study in China
Authors: Liu Tian Yu , Jin Duo Chen , Khan Samiullah , Chen Xue , Shi Tao , Dong Wen Xiao , Qi Yan Rong , Guo Zi Xuan , Wang Bang Mao , Cao Hai Long
Published: March 2018

OBJECTIVE

A growing body of evidence indicates that patients with colorectal serrated lesions, especially advanced serrated lesions (ASLs), are at risk of subsequent malignancy. This study aimed to analyze the clinicopathological features of ASLs and the association between ASLs and synchronous advanced colorectal neoplasia (sACN) in a single center of China.

METHODS

A retrospective cross‐sectional study of consecutive symptomatic patients and healthy individuals who underwent colonoscopy between January 2010 and March 2016 was performed. Clinicopathological characteritics of the patients with ASLs were documented from the colonoscopy database.

RESULTS

Colorectal serrated lesions were pathologically confirmed in 277 (N = 38 981, 0.7%) cases. Among them, 156 (56.3%) were found to have ASLs, with a total of 161 lesions including 71 sessile serrated adenoma/polyps (SSA/P) and 90 traditional serrated adenomas (TSAs). There were no differences in age and gender between the ASL and non‐ASL patients. Among the 161 ASLs, 29 (18.0%) were ≥10 mm in diameter. Compared with non‐ASLs, ASLs appeared more in the proximal colon (P = 0.007). Flat and subpedunculated lesions were more commonly found in the ASL group compared with the non‐ASL group. Nearly all ASLs (160/161) had dysplasia. Moreover, 16 sACN lesions were found in 156 ASL patients, and large diameter (≥10 mm) might be a significant risk factor for sACN (odds ratio 4.35, 95% confidence interval 1.467–12.894, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

ASLs are more likely to occur in the proximal colon, and mainly present as flat and sub‐pedunculated types. Large ASLs are significantly associated with sACN.
Long non‐coding RNA linc01433 promotes migration and invasion in non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Qian Banglun , Wang Xiang , Mao Chao , Jiang Yiqun , Shi Ying , Chen Ling , Liu Shuang , Wang Bin , Pan Shu , Tao Yongguang , Shi Hongcan
Published: March 2018

Background

For many years, lung cancer has been the most common and deadly cancer worldwide. Early diagnosis of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in particular is very difficult because the symptoms are often ignored. The five‐year survival rate is very low despite great improvements to therapy. Thus, there is an urgent need to identify prognostic biomarkers and target molecules for the clinical diagnosis and individualized treatment of NSCLC.

Methods

We performed quantitative real‐time PCR to determine the expression levels of the long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) linc01433 in NSCLC and normal matched lung tissue. Subsequently, we established cell lines with overexpression or knockdown of linc01433 to evaluate the effects on proliferation and metastasis in vitro. Epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition was examined using Western blot.

Results

Linc01433 was significantly overexpressed in NSCLC tissues compared to normal lung tissues. In addition, linc01433 levels were associated with smoking history. Linc01433 overexpression in lung cancer cells increased proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities, as well as epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition.

Conclusions

Linc01433 is a cancer‐related lncRNA that may have an oncogene‐like effect in NSCLC.
State‐Owned Enterprises, Competition, and Disclosure
Authors: Bova Francesco , Yang Liyan
Published: March 2018

We develop a mixed‐duopoly model in which a private firm competes against a state‐owned enterprise (SOE) who cares about social welfare and is privately informed about market demand. When the SOE's social concerns are sufficiently important and when the market competitiveness is sufficiently low, the SOE commits to fully disclose its private information. Otherwise, the SOE commits to withhold its private information. When the disclosure equilibrium prevails, the private firm can be more profitable competing against an SOE than against another private firm. In this mixed‐duopoly setting, the equilibrium social welfare is maximized when the SOE puts a positive weight on both social welfare and its own profit. Our analysis has further implications for both mandatory disclosure and market entry.
THAM administration reduces pulmonary carbon dioxide elimination in hypercapnia – an experimental porcine study
Authors: Höstman S. , Kawati R. , Perchiazzi G. , Larsson A.
Published: March 2018

Background

In a previous study, we found a rebound of arterial carbon dioxide tension (PaCO2) after stopping THAM buffer administration. We hypothesized that this was due to reduced pulmonary CO2 elimination during THAM administration. The aim of this study was to investigate this hypothesis in an experimental porcine hypercapnic model.

Methods

In seven, initially normoventilated, anesthetized pigs (22–27 kg) minute ventilation was reduced by 66% for 7 h. Two hours after commencing hypoventilation, THAM was infused IV for 3 h in a dose targeting a pH of 7.35 followed by a 2 h observation period. Acid‐base status, blood‐gas content and exhaled CO2 were measured.

Results

THAM raised pH (7.07 ± 0.04 to 7.41 ± 0.04, P < 0.05) and lowered PaCO2 (15.2 ± 1.4 to 12.2 ± 1.1 kPa, P < 0.05). After the infusion, pH decreased and PaCO2 increased again. At the end of the observation period, pH and PaCO2 were 7.24 ± 0.03 and 16.6 ± 1.2 kPa, respectively (P < 0.05). Pulmonary CO2 excretion decreased from 109 ± 12 to 74 ± 12 ml/min (P < 0.05) during the THAM infusion but returned at the end of the observation period to 111 ± 15 ml/min (P < 0.05). The estimated reduction of pulmonary CO2 elimination during the infusion was 5800 ml.

Conclusions

In this respiratory acidosis model, THAM reduced PaCO2, but seemed not to increase the total CO2 elimination due to decreased pulmonary CO2 excretion, suggesting only cautious use of THAM in hypercapnic acidosis.
Differences in White Matter Microstructure and Connectivity in Nontreatment‐Seeking Individuals with Alcohol Use Disorder
Authors: Chumin Evgeny J. , Goñi Joaquín , Halcomb Meredith E. , Durazzo Timothy C. , Dzemidzic Mario , Yoder Karmen K.
Published: March 2018

Background

Diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) has been widely used to investigate the integrity of white matter (WM; indexed by fractional anisotropy [FA]) in alcohol dependence and cigarette smoking. These disorders are highly comorbid, yet cigarette use has often not been adequately controlled in neuroimaging studies of alcohol‐dependent populations. In addition, information on WM deficits in currently drinking, nontreatment‐seeking (NTS) individuals with alcohol dependence is limited. Therefore, the aim of this work was to investigate WM microstructural integrity in alcohol use disorder by comparing matched samples of cigarette smoking NTS and social drinkers (SD).

Methods

Thirty‐eight smoking NTS and 19 smoking SD subjects underwent DWI as well as structural magnetic resonance imaging. After an in‐house preprocessing of the DWI data, FA images were analyzed with tract‐based spatial statistics (TBSS). FA obtained from the TBSS skeleton was tested for correlation with recent alcohol consumption.

Results

Smoking NTS had lower FA relative to smoking SD, predominantly in the left hemisphere (p < 0.05, family‐wise error rate corrected across FA skeleton). Across the full sample, FA and number of drinks per week were negatively related (ρ = −0.348, p = 0.008). Qualitative analyses of the structural connections through compromised WM as identified by TBSS showed differential connectivity of gray matter in NTS compared to SD subjects of left frontal, temporal, and parietal regions.

Conclusions

NTS subjects had lower WM FA than SD, indicating compromised WM integrity in the NTS population. The inverse relationship of entire WM skeleton FA with self‐reported alcohol consumption supports previous evidence of a continuum of detrimental effects of alcohol consumption on WM. These results provide additional evidence that alcohol dependence is associated with reduced WM integrity in currently drinking NTS alcohol‐dependent individuals, after controlling for the key variable of cigarette smoking.
The relationship between negative symptoms and depression in schizophrenia: a systematic review
Authors: Krynicki C. R. , Upthegrove R. , Deakin J. F. W. , Barnes T. R. E.
Published: March 2018

Objective

To provide an update on the evidence base for the nature of the relationship between negative symptoms and depressive features in people with schizophrenia, and propose new models that reflect their complex relationship.

Method

A systematic review following PRISMA guidelines. A total of 2210 articles were identified from EMBASE, PsychInfo and MEDLINE, and further two articles were hand‐searched from references. Twenty‐seven met inclusion criteria and were included in the review.

Results

In schizophrenia, primary evidence suggests symptoms of low mood, suicidal ideation and pessimism have more specificity for depression whereas alogia and blunted affect may have more specificity as negative symptoms. Anhedonia, anergia and avolition may be common to both.

Conclusion

It may be possible to further distinguish depressive features from negative symptoms in schizophrenia when detailed phenomenology is considered. However, in a proposed dimensional model, these two domains continue to share certain phenomena, highlighting their close relationship.
Estimates of costs for modelling return on investment from smoking cessation interventions
Authors: Trapero‐Bertran Marta , Leidl Reiner , Muñoz Celia , Kulchaitanaroaj Puttarin , Coyle Kathryn , Präger Maximilian , Józwiak‐Hagymásy Judit , Cheung Kei Long , Hiligsmann Mickael , Pokhrel Subhash ,   on behalf of the EQUIPT Study Group
Published: March 2018

Background and aims

Modelling return on investment (ROI) from smoking cessation interventions requires estimates of their costs and benefits. This paper describes a standardized method developed to source both economic costs of tobacco smoking and costs of implementing cessation interventions for a Europe‐wide ROI model [European study on Quantifying Utility of Investment in Protection from Tobacco model (EQUIPTMOD)].

Design

Focused search of administrative and published data. A standardized checklist was developed in order to ensure consistency in methods of data collection.

Setting and participants

Adult population (15+ years) in Hungary, Netherlands, Germany, Spain and England. For passive smoking‐related costs, child population (0–15 years) was also included.

Measurements

Costs of treating smoking‐attributable diseases; productivity losses due to smoking‐attributable absenteeism; and costs of implementing smoking cessation interventions.

Findings

Annual costs (per case) of treating smoking attributable lung cancer were between €5074 (Hungary) and €52 106 (Germany); coronary heart disease between €1521 (Spain) and €3955 (Netherlands); chronic obstructive pulmonary disease between €1280 (England) and €4199 (Spain); stroke between €1829 (Hungary) and €14 880 (Netherlands). Costs (per recipient) of smoking cessation medications were estimated to be: for standard duration of varenicline between €225 (England) and €465 (Hungary); for bupropion between €25 (Hungary) and €220 (Germany). Costs (per recipient) of providing behavioural support were also wide‐ranging: one‐to‐one behavioural support between €34 (Hungary) and €474 (Netherlands); and group‐based behavioural support between €12 (Hungary) and €257 (Germany). The costs (per recipient) of delivering brief physician advice were: €24 (England); €9 (Germany); €4 (Hungary); €33 (Netherlands); and €27 (Spain).

Conclusions

Costs of treating smoking‐attributable diseases as well as the costs of implementing smoking cessation interventions vary substantially across Hungary, Netherlands, Germany, Spain and England. Estimates for the costs of these diseases and interventions can contribute to return on investment estimates in support of national or regional policy decisions.
The role of frugivorous birds in fruit removal and seed germination of the invasive alien Cotoneaster franchetii in central Argentina
Authors: Díaz Vélez María C. , Sérsic Alicia N. , Traveset Anna , Paiaro Valeria
Published: March 2018

Many invasive plant species have fleshy fruits that are eaten by native frugivorous birds which disperse their seeds and may facilitate their germination, playing an important role in plant invasion success. The fleshy‐fruited shrub Cotoneaster franchetii (Rosaceae) is an important invasive alien in the mountainous regions of central Argentina. To determine the role of avian frugivorous in fruit removal of this species, we conducted a frugivore exclusion experiment including bagged and unbagged branches in 75 plants of C. franchetii. At the end of the dispersal period, we compared the percentage of missing fruits (removed by birds + naturally dropped) in unbagged branches with the percentage of naturally dropped fruits in bagged branches. To assess whether any mechanism acting on seeds during their passage through bird guts (de‐inhibition by pulp removal and/or seed scarification) affects seed germination of this species, we compared percentage and speed of germination among seeds obtained from faeces of the native frugivorous Turdus chiguanco, from manually de‐pulped fruits, and from intact fruits. The percentage of missing fruits per shrub in unbagged branches was significantly higher than the percentage of naturally dropped fruits in bagged branches, suggesting that frugivorous birds play an important role in fruit removal of C. franchetii in the study area. Seeds from bird faeces and from manually de‐pulped fruits germinated in higher percentage and faster than seeds from intact fruits. Germination percentage and speed of seeds from manually de‐pulped fruits were significantly higher than those of gut‐passed seeds. These results indicate that T. chiguanco increases and accelerates seed germination of C. franchetii through pulp removal, but not through seed scarification. Overall, our findings indicate that native frugivorous birds facilitate the dispersal and germination success of C. franchetii, likely playing an important role in its invasion throughout the mountainous region of central Argentina.
Not such silly sausages: Evidence suggests northern quolls exhibit aversion to toads after training with toad sausages
Authors: Indigo Naomi , Smith James , Webb Jonathan K. , Phillips Ben
Published: March 2018

The invasion of toxic cane toads (Rhinella marina) is a major threat to northern quolls (Dasyurus hallucatus) which are poisoned when they attack this novel prey item. Quolls are now endangered as a consequence of the toad invasion. Conditioned taste aversion can be used to train individual quolls to avoid toads, but we currently lack a training technique that can be used at a landscape scale to buffer entire populations from toad impact. Broad‐scale deployment requires a bait that can be used for training, but there is no guarantee that such a bait will ultimately elicit aversion to toads. Here, we test a manufactured bait – a ‘toad sausage’ – in a small captive trial, for its ability to elicit aversion to toads in northern quolls. To do this, we exposed one group of quolls to a toad sausage and another to a control sausage and compared the quolls' predatory responses when presented with a dead adult toad. Captive quolls that consumed a single toad sausage showed a reduced interest in cane toads, interacting with them for less than half the time of their untrained counterparts and showing reduced Attack behaviour. We also quantified bait uptake in the field, by both quolls and non‐target species. These field trials showed that wild quolls were the most frequent species attracted to the baits, and that approx. 61% of quolls consumed toad‐aversion baits when first encountered. Between 40% and 68% of these animals developed aversion to further bait consumption. Our results suggest that toad‐aversion sausages may be used to train wild quolls to avoid cane toads. This opens the possibility for broad‐scale quoll training with toad aversion sausages: a technique that may allow wildlife managers to prevent quoll extinctions at a landscape scale.
Rationalizing Cooperation: Moroccan Craft, Politics, and Education
Authors: Nicholas Claire
Published: March 2018

State attempts to rationalize Moroccan craft education reflect the ambivalent status of traditional knowledge in a modern economy. Female artisans, recently organized as a cooperative, navigate this ambivalence in a weaving “theory” class and in their “occupation” of the cooperative structure itself. During performances of learning and cooperation, weavers fulfill the terms of the state's policies and their roles as “economic citizens,” while accomplishing local modes of belonging and the management of social relations.
The Cultural Production of the “Disabled” Person: Constructing Difference in Bhutanese Schools
Authors: Schuelka Matthew
Published: March 2018

The Himalayan country of Bhutan has witnessed monumental social and cultural changes in only the last fifty years with the implementation and institutionalization of mass secular schooling. This “modern” schooling has also served to newly sort, produce, and construct “disabled” persons. Through a year of ethnographic fieldwork, I explored this construction of disability through the institution of schooling and have organized these observations into four forms: physical, pedagogical, curricular, and linguistic.
Japanese health professionals’ knowledge of dementia and educational needs: A population study
Authors: Annear Michael J
Published: March 2018

Objectives

Best‐evidence dementia knowledge has the potential to improve care practices in aged care settings, although limited research has explored understanding among the Japanese workforce. This study examines the knowledge of dementia and educational needs among aged care professionals across Japan.

Methods

An online survey methodology was used to assess the dementia experiences and knowledge among a national, random sample of 117 Japanese aged care professionals.

Results

Objectively measured scores on the Dementia Knowledge Assessment Scale were moderate and lower than the scores recorded with comparable international cohorts. Knowledge scores were positively correlated with formal dementia education and self‐rated knowledge. Knowledge deficiencies were identified concerning differentiation of dementia symptoms, efficacy of pharmaceutical treatments, managing challenging behaviours and patient communication.

Conclusion

These results may be used by academics, clinical educators and policy specialists to inform the development of workplace education in the Japanese aged care sector that aims to improve care quality.
Immune biomarkers and anti‐HIV activity in the reproductive tract of sexually active and sexually inactive adolescent girls
Authors: Ghosh Mimi , Jais Mariel , Biswas Roshni , Jarin Jason , Daniels Jason , Joy Christopher , Juzumaite Monika , Emmanuel Vanessa , Gomez‐Lobo Veronica
Published: March 2018

Problem

Adolescent girls are disproportionately affected by the HIV/AIDS pandemic, accounting for 22% of all new HIV infections globally. Yet little is known regarding the immune microenvironment of the adolescent female reproductive tract, especially regarding differences among sexually active and inactive girls, a critical parameter to evaluate HIV susceptibility associated with young age and sexual debut.

Methods

Cervico‐vaginal lavage (CVL) was collected from sexually active (10) and inactive (8) girls aged 11‐19 years and analyzed by ELISA for inflammation‐associated biomarkers IL‐6, IL‐8, TNF‐α, MIP‐3α, IL‐1α, IL‐1β, matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) 1, 2, 7, 8, and 9, as well as anti‐HIV mediators, Elafin, SLPI, human beta‐defensin 2, and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMP) 1 and 2. Cervical ectopy was analyzed using Volocity. Anti‐HIV activity was determined by TZM‐bl assay. Statistical analyses were performed using GraphPad Prism and R.

Results

Sexually inactive girls had significantly higher levels of TNF‐α (P = .029) in CVL compared to sexually active girls. In contrast, sexually active girls showed a trend toward higher levels of IL‐1α (P = .051) compared to the sexually inactive girls. Heat‐map correlations between cervical ectopy and immune biomarkers were also distinct between the 2 populations with significant positive associations between % ectopy and inflammation‐associated biomarkers IL‐6, IL‐1β, IL‐8, MIP‐3α, MMP‐8, and MMP‐9 observed in the sexually inactive but not sexually active group.

Conclusion

Higher pro‐inflammatory biomarker TNF‐α, as well as a distinct inflammation‐associated immune clustering in sexually inactive girls, can potentially increase risk for infections including HIV upon sexual debut. Future studies with larger sample sizes are needed to characterize the immune parameters associated with sexual activity.
Most effective pain‐control procedure for open liver surgery: a network meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhou Ling , Huang Jian , Chen Changwang
Published: March 2018

Background

To determine the most effective pain‐control procedure for open liver surgery through a network meta‐analysis and provide a best developing direction in this field.

Methods

PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library database were searched for randomized controlled trials up to 1 July 2016. We extracted data on post‐operative pain score at the 4th–8th hour and 24th hour from studies that compared various pain‐control strategies. Network meta‐analysis was conducted in Aggregate Data Drug Information System software by evaluating the parametric pain score at rest and on movement. Cumulative probability value was utilized to rank the procedures under examination. The inconsistency would also be tested by node‐splitting models.

Results

Twelve articles containing 661 patients were included. Intrathecal analgesia plus intravenous analgesia played the most effective role in pain controlling at post‐operative 4–8 h (both at rest and on movement, P = 0.49 and P = 0.62, respectively) and at post‐operative 24 h (both at rest and on movement, P = 0.46 and P = 0.29, respectively). Node‐splitting models test revealed that no significant inconsistency existed in this research.

Conclusions

Intrathecal analgesia plus intravenous analgesia revealed the most effective clinical pain‐control value for open liver surgery. More importantly, we believed that creating a better comprehensive and systematic combined pain‐control procedure should be considered as the developing direction in this field.
Clinical significance of serum transthyretin level in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Shimura Tatsuo , Shibata Masahiko , Kofunato Yasuhide , Okada Ryo , Ishigame Teruhide , Kimura Takashi , Kenjo Akira , Marubashi Shigeru
Published: March 2018

Background

Although serum albumin has been reported to be useful as a prognostic biomarker for various malignancies, it is not suitable for prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) due to impaired liver function. We aimed to determine whether serum transthyretin (TTR) level can be used as a novel prognostic biomarker.

Methods

Serum levels of TTR, as well as other nutritional and inflammatory parameters including angiogenic factors, were examined in 25 patients with HCC.

Results

The serum TTR levels exhibited a statistically significant inverse correlation with interleukin‐6 (r = −0.412, P = 0.041), and showed statistically significant correlations with retinol‐binding protein (r = 0.919, P < 0.001) and albumin (r = 0.442, P = 0.027). The patients with TTR <11.4 mg/dL (P = 0.012), those with ≥T2 (P = 0.011) and those with a retention rate of indocyanine green after 15 min ≥15.5 (P = 0.037) showed poorer prognoses than the counterparts of each parameter. The TTR level <11.4 mg/dL (hazard ratio: 4.837, 95% confidence interval: 1.118–20.926, P = 0.035) and ≥T2 (hazard ratio: 5.011, 95% confidence interval: 1.243–20.203, P = 0.023) were independent prognostic factors of HCC patients.

Conclusion

Serum TTR measurement can be useful for predicting the prognosis of patients with HCC.
Formation of Blood Foam in the Air Trap During Hemodialysis Due to Insufficient Automatic Priming of Dialyzers
Authors: Jonsson Per , Lindmark Lorentz , Axelsson Jan , Karlsson Lars , Lundberg Lennart , Stegmayr Bernd
Published: March 2018

We were encouraged to investigate the reasons for large amounts of foam observed in bloodlines during hemodialysis (HD). Foam was visible in the venous air trap within the Artis Gambro dialysis device. Estimates of the extent of foam were graded (0—no foam, 10—extensive foam) by two persons that were blind to the type of dialyzer used. Thirty‐seven patients were involved in the dialysis procedures. Consecutive dialyses were graded using dialyzers from Fresenius Medical Care (CorDiax dialyzers that were used for high flux HD—FX80 and FX100, and for hemodiafiltration—FX1000). The extracorporeal circuit was primed automatically by dialysate using Gambro Artis software 8.15 006 (Gambro, Dasco, Medolla Italy, Baxter, Chicago, IL, USA). The priming volume recommended by the manufacturer was 1100 mL, whereas our center uses 1500 mL. Extensive amounts of blood foam were visual in the air traps. Although the manufacturer recommended extension of priming volume up to 3000 mL, this did not eliminate the foam. Microbubble measurement during HD revealed the air to derive from the dialyzers. When changing to PF210H dialyzers (Baxter) and using a priming volume of 1500 mL, the foam was significantly less (P < 0.01). The extent of foam correlated with the size of the FX‐dialyzer surface (P = 0.002). The auto‐priming program was updated to version 8.21 by the manufacturer and the extent of foam in the air trap using FX dialyzers was now reduced and there was no longer a difference between FX and PF dialyzers, although less foam was still visible in the venous air trap during several dialyses. In conclusion, this study urgently calls attention to blood foam development in the venous air trap when using Artis devices and priming software 8.15 in combination with Fresenius dialyzers. Updated auto‐priming software (version 8.21) of Artis should be requested to reduce the extent of foam for the Fresenius dialyzers. Other interactions may also be present. We recommend further studies to clarify these problems. Meanwhile caution is warranted for the combined use of dialysis devices and dialyzers with incompatible automatic priming.
Cosmetic results of enucleation and/or external beam radiation therapy in 195 retinoblastoma survivors
Authors: Mourits Daphne L. , Hartong Dyonne T. , Lissenberg‐Witte Birgit I. , Bosscha Machteld I. , Tan H. Stevie , Moll Annette C.
Published: March 2018

Purpose

To report the cosmetic outcome and late effects of enucleation and/or irradiation for retinoblastoma and to evaluate the role of orbital implants.

Methods

Patients (age >4 years) enucleated and/or irradiated for retinoblastoma, visiting the hospital for routine follow‐up (April 2013 to May 2015), were included in our cross‐sectional study. Data were obtained via clinical records, questionnaires, physical measurements and standardized photographs. Two independent observers scored the cosmetic features: upper eyelid position, lower eyelid position, volume deficiency, and prosthesis motility and overall cosmetic appearance.

Results

A total of 195 patients participated. Ptosis was seen in 45 (28.3%) patients, lower lid sagging in 45 (28.3%). Both complications were associated with the orbital implant; ptosis being more common with increasing implant size (5.6% without implant, 16.7% with small implant, 37.1% with medium implant and 76.9% with large implant) and lower lid sagging being more common in patients without implant (20% with implant versus 37.5% without). Volume loss of the superior sulcus was seen in 107 sockets (66.9%), most frequent in additionally irradiated patients (χ2(2) = 42.7, p < 0.001) and in patients without implant (χ2(2) = 11.92, p = 0.003). Prosthesis motility was better in patients with orbital implant, regardless of the size.

Conclusion

Minor late and potentially treatable effects were seen in patients with implant. Larger sized implants were associated with a higher incidence of ptosis; implant size did not affect subjective outcome with respect to volume or prosthetic motility. Treatment with EBRT had a less favourable outcome.
Neisseria meningitidis carriage in Swedish teenagers associated with the serogroup W outbreak at the World Scout Jamboree, Japan 2015
Authors: Jacobsson Susanne , Stenmark Bianca , Hedberg Sara Thulin , Mölling Paula , Fredlund Hans
Published: March 2018

The aims of the study were to estimate the carrier state of Neisseria meningitidis in Swedish teenagers and its association with an outbreak at the World Scout Jamboree in 2015 as well as to compare sensitivity of throat versus nasopharyngeal swab for optimal detection of carriage. In total, 1 705 samples (cultures n = 32, throat swabs n = 715, nasopharyngeal swabs n = 958) from 1 020 Jamboree participants were collected and sent to the National Reference Laboratory for Neisseria meningitidis for culture and molecular analysis. The overall positivity for N. meningitidis was 8% (83/1 020), whereas 2% (n = 22) belonged to a known sero/genogroup while the majority (n = 61) were non‐groupable. Throat sample is clearly the sampling method of choice, in 56 individuals where both throat and nasopharynx samples were taken, N. meningitidis was detected in both throat and nasopharynx in eight individuals, in 46 individuals N. meningitidis was only detected in the throat and in two individuals only in the nasopharynx. Carriage studies are important to provide knowledge of the current epidemiology and association between carrier isolates and disease‐causing isolates in a given population. Therefore, planning for a carriage study in Sweden is in progress.
French Decorative Ceramics Mass‐Produced During and After the 17th Century: Chemical Analyses of the Glazes
Authors: Bouquillon A. , Castaing J. , Barbe F. , Crepin‐Leblond T. , Tilliard L. , Paine S. R. , Christman B. , Heuer A. H.
Published: March 2018

Chemical analyses of a group of Pb silicate–glazed decorativeobjets d'artshowing scenes of the French royal family (Louis XIII and Henri IV), and biblical and classical figures, have been analysed and compared with other similar heritage ceramics and with therustiques figulinesof Bernard Palissy (1510–90) and his followers and imitators. In particular, non‐destructive ion‐beam chemical analyses (PIXE and PIGE) have been performed on 11 ceramic artefacts from the Cleveland Museum of Art (CMA) and a like number from several French museums; results for 13 objects are described in detail in this paper. SEM–EDX has been performed on chips (‘microsamples’) taken from small unobtrusive defective regions on the CMA ceramics. The results of the ion‐beam and SEM–EDX techniques are in good agreement. All the decorative ceramics included uniform non‐opacified glazes. None of these objects can be of 16th century production; all must date from the 17th to the 19th centuries.
Compositional Analysis by p‐XRF and SEM–EDX of Medieval Window Glass from Elgin Cathedral, Northern Scotland
Authors: Spencer H. M. , Murdoch K. R. , Buckman J. , Forster A. M. , Kennedy C. J.
Published: March 2018

Thirty shards of medieval window glass from Elgin Cathedral in north‐east Scotland have been subjected to compositional analysis by portable X‐ray fluorescence and scanning electron microscopy – energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. Comparison with previous analytical studies suggests that the majority of the glass was probably produced in France, while a smaller group may have been made in Germany. Significant differences in base glass composition were observed between colours. Two distinct blue glasses compositions were identified. The composition of the grisaille paint differs from paint on the continent, providing the first evidence that it was made using local Scottish lead and iron pigments. This work represents the largest analytical study of Scottish medieval window glass yet undertaken and presents insights into the transfer of medieval materials, technologies and trade routes.
Utility of preoperative 3‐D simulation of laparoscopic lateral pelvic lymph node dissection for advanced rectal cancer: Surgical outcomes of 10 initial cases
Authors: Horie Hisanaga , Koinuma Koji , Ito Homare , Sadatomo Ai , Naoi Daishi , Kono Yoshihiko , Inoue Yoshiyuki , Morimoto Mitsuaki , Tahara Makiko , Lefor Alan K , Sata Naohiro , Sasaki Takahiro , Sugimoto Hideharu
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Laparoscopic lateral pelvic lymph node dissection (LPLD) is technically challenging because of the complicated anatomy of the pelvic wall. To overcome this difficulty, we introduced preoperative 3‐D simulation. The aim of the study is to investigate the usefulness of preoperative 3‐D simulation for the safe conduct of laparoscopic LPLD for rectal cancer.

Methods

After undergoing colonoscopy, patients were brought to the radiology suite where multi‐detector row CT was performed. Three‐dimensional images were constructed at a workstation and showed branches of the iliac artery and vein, ureter, urinary bladder, and enlarged lymph nodes. All members of the surgical team participated in preoperative simulation using the 3‐D images.

Results

A total of 10 patients with advanced lower rectal cancer and enlarged lateral pelvic lymph nodes underwent laparoscopic unilateral LPLD after total mesorectal excision, tumor‐specific mesorectal excision, or total proctocolectomy. Four of the 10 patients (40%) had variations in pelvic vascular anatomy. The median operative time for unilateral LPLD was 91 min (range, 66–142 min) and gradually declined, suggesting a good learning curve. The median number of lateral pelvic lymph nodes harvested was nine (range, 3–16). The median estimated blood loss was 13 mL (range, 10–160 mL). No conversion to open surgery or intraoperative complications occurred. No patient had major postoperative complications.

Conclusion

Preoperative 3‐D simulation may be useful for the safe conduct of laparoscopic LPLD, especially for surgeons with limited prior experience.
Preservice teachers' conceptions of teaching using mobile devices and the quality of technology integration in lesson plans
Authors: Tsai Pei‐Shan , Tsai Chin‐Chung
Published: March 2018

This study explored the relationships among preservice teachers' conceptions of teaching using mobile devices and the quality of technology integration in lesson plans. A total of 47 preservice teachers in Taiwan who had experienced designing their own lesson plans and teaching materials (ie, eBooks and applications) for teaching using mobile devices (ie, smart phones and tablet PCs) participated in this study. The results showed that four qualitatively different conceptions of teaching using mobile devices were identified, namely “technology support,” “knowledge transmission,” “learning facilitation,” and “supporting students to learn.” This study also found that the teachers who had more constructivist perceptions of teaching using mobile devices, such as facilitating students' understanding in a convenient way or supporting student learning in a more active way, appeared to attain better quality technology integration in their lesson plans than those teachers with traditional conceptions.
Impact of novel therapies for mantle cell lymphoma in the real world setting: a report from the UK's Haematological Malignancy Research Network (HMRN)
Authors: Smith Alexandra , Roman Eve , Appleton Simon , Howell Debra , Johnson Rod , Burton Cathy , Patmore Russell
Published: March 2018

The treatment landscape for mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) has changed dramatically in recent years, with findings from clinical trials reporting improvements in survival. Data on the general patient population are, however, sparse; and it is unclear whether the effects observed in clinical trials have translated into the real‐world setting. To investigate this, we examined first‐line and relapsed/refractory (RR) disease management in 335 MCL patients diagnosed between 2004 and 2015 in an established population‐based patient cohort, along with data on demographic, diagnostic and prognostic factors. Marked treatment and survival changes were observed; first‐line rituximab immunotherapy, for example, increased from 32% to 86% over the 11‐year period, and median survival increased from 2·0 years among those first treated in 2004–2011 to 3·5 years among those treated in 2012–2015. Outcomes for RR disease also improved, from 8 months in 2004–2011 to 16·8 months in 2012–2015, coinciding with the introduction of agents, such as bendamustine and ibrutinib. Encouragingly, improvements were seen across all ages; 1‐year overall survival among patients over 70 years treated for RR disease almost doubled. Our analyses underscore the importance of monitoring the impact of treatment changes in the real‐world setting.
Antibiotic susceptibility of intestinal Escherichia coli in men undergoing transrectal prostate biopsies: a prospective, registered, multicentre study
Authors: Knaapila Juha , Kallio Heini , Hakanen Antti J , Syvänen Kari , Ettala Otto , Kähkönen Esa , Lamminen Tarja , Seppänen Marjo , Jambor Ivan , Rannikko Antti , Riikonen Jarno , Munukka Eveliina , Eerola Erkki , Gunell Marianne , Boström Peter J.
Published: March 2018

Objectives

To determine, in a prospective, multicentre setting, the prevalence of fluoroquinolone‐resistant (FQ‐R) and extended‐spectrum β‐lactamase (ESBL)‐producing Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains in men undergoing transrectal ultrasonography‐guided prostate biopsy (TRUS‐Bx) in Finland; and to survey the associated risk factors for having the previously mentioned strains.

Patients and Methods

This is a substudy of the trial investigating the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in prostate cancer diagnosis (Improved Prostate Cancer Diagnosis – Combination of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Targeted Biopsies and Biomarkers Multi‐institutional Study [multi‐IMPROD], NCT02241122). In all, 359 patients from four study centres were recruited to this prospective study. After having signed the informed consent form, these men with suspicion of prostate cancer completed a detailed questionnaire on their medical, smoking, and travelling history, as well as their recent use of antibiotics. After the bi‐parametric MRI scan, TRUS‐Bx was taken and a rectal swab sample was collected and cultured for determining the antimicrobial susceptibility profile of E. coli strains. The potential risk factors for having FQ‐R or third‐generation cephalosporin‐resistant (3GC‐R) E. coli strains were analysed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

The percentage of FQ‐R and 3GC‐R E. coli strains amongst the study population was 13% and 8%, respectively. Amongst patients having E. coli strains, the rate of FQ‐R and 3GC‐R strains was 14% and 8%, respectively. Of the 3GC‐R E. coli strains, 62% proved to be ESBL‐producers and 88% were also FQ‐R. In multivariate analysis, international travel during the preceding year significantly increased the risk of having a FQ‐R E. coli strain (odds ratio [OR] 3.592, P = 0.001) and, unexpectedly, use of antibiotics during the previous year significantly decreased this risk (OR 0.442, P = 0.035). No significant risk factors for having 3GC‐R E. coli were identified.

Conclusion

The occurrence of intestinal FQ‐R and/or 3GC‐R (potentially ESBL‐producing) E. coli strains in men undergoing TRUS‐Bx in Finland is notable. The finding is consistent with the global increase in antimicrobial resistance. International travel appears to be an indisputable risk factor for having intestinal FQ‐R E. coli strains. The contemporary antimicrobial resistance situation should be taken into account in the care of post‐TRUS‐Bx infections.
Expression of tumour progression‐associated genes in circulating tumour cells of patients at different stages of prostate cancer
Authors: Russo Giorgio I. , Bier Simone , Hennenlotter Jörg , Beger Gunthild , Pavlenco Lucretia , van de Flierdt Jens , Hauch Siegfried , Maas Moritz , Walz Simon , Rausch Steffen , Bedke Jens , Morgia Giuseppe , Stenzl Arnulf , Todenhöfer Tilman
Published: March 2018

Objective

To evaluate the presence of circulating tumour cells (CTCs) at different stages of prostate cancer using the AdnaTest® ProstateCancerDetect kit (Qiagen). Moreover, we aimed to assess the expression of transcripts that are specific for cancer stem cells (AdnaTest StemCell) and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in CTCs (AdnaTest EMT), as well as additional genes that are known to promote prostate cancer progression.

Patients and Methods

In this prospective study, we included 81 patients who underwent treatment for prostate cancer between 07/2014 and 02/2015, including: Group A, 18 patients (22.2%) with low‐risk clinically localised prostate cancer; Group B, 25 patients (30.9%) with high‐risk clinically localised prostate cancer; Group C, 11 patients (13.6%) with metastatic castration‐sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC); and Group D, 27 patients (33.3%) with metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). AdnaTest ProstateCancer and AdnaTest StemCell/EMT were performed in all cases. In addition, expression of the androgen receptor (AR), c‐met, c‐kit and thymidylate synthase (TYMS) in CTCs was assessed using specific polymerase chain reaction assays.

Results

A positive AdnaTest ProstateCancer was present in three (16.7%), two (8.0%), six (54.5%) and 19 (70.5%) patients in groups A, B, C and D, respectively (P < 0.01, chi‐squared test). The AdnaTest EMT and AdnaTest StemCell were positive in zero (0.0%), zero (0.0%), one (9.1%), and two (7.4%); and in five (27.8%), four (16.0%), three (27.3%), and 11 (40.7%) patients in groups A, B, C and D, respectively, with no significant differences noted between groups. CTCs expressing TYMS (44.4% and 50.0% vs 13.9%) or AR (18.2% and 25.9% vs 0.0%) were seen more commonly in patients in groups C and D vs patients with non‐metastatic disease (all P < 0.05). Expression of c‐kit and c‐met were rare events, with only two patients positive for either marker.

Conclusions

AdnaTest ProstateCancerDetect exhibits positive results mainly in patients with metastatic disease. Expression of AR and TYMS are frequent events in CTCs of patients with advanced disease, whereas c‐met and c‐kit gene expression is seen in only a small proportion of patients. The implications of these results for the use of CTC analysis as a decision factor for personalised treatment strategies in advanced prostate cancer remain to be determined.
Established gastric cancer cell lines transplantable into C57BL/6 mice show fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 promotion of tumor growth
Authors: Yamamoto Masami , Nomura Sachiyo , Hosoi Akihiro , Nagaoka Koji , Iino Tamaki , Yasuda Tomohiko , Saito Tomoko , Matsushita Hirokazu , Uchida Eiji , Seto Yasuyuki , Goldenring James R. , Kakimi Kazuhiko , Tatematsu Masae , Tsukamoto Tetsuya
Published: March 2018

Previously no mouse gastric cancer cell lines have been available for transplantation into C57BL/6 mice. However, a gastric cancer model in immunocompetent mice would be useful for analyzing putative therapies. N‐Methyl‐N‐nitrosourea (MNU) was given in drinking water to C57BL/6 mice and p53 heterozygous knockout mice. Only 1 tumor from a p53 knockout mouse could be cultured and the cells s.c. transplanted into a C57BL/6 mouse. We cultured this s.c. tumor, and subcloned it. mRNA expression in the most aggressive YTN16 subline was compared to the less aggressive YTN2 subline by microarray analysis, and fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 (FGFR4) in YTN16 cells was knocked out with a CRISPR/Cas9 system and inhibited by an FGFR4 selective inhibitor, BLU9931. These transplanted cell lines formed s.c. tumors in C57BL/6 mice. Four cell lines (YTN2, YTN3, YTN5, YTN16) were subcloned and established. Their in vitro growth rates were similar. However, s.c. tumor establishment rates, metastatic rates, and peritoneal dissemination rates of YTN2 and YTN3 were lower than for YTN5 and YTN16. YTN16 established 8/8 s.c. tumors, 7/8 with lung metastases, 3/8 with lymph node metastases and 5/5 with peritoneal dissemination. FGFR4 expression by YTN16 was 121‐fold higher than YTN2. FGFR4‐deleted YTN16 cells failed to form s.c. tumors and showed lower rates of peritoneal dissemination. BLU9931 significantly inhibited the growth of peritoneal dissemination of YTN16. These studies present the first transplantable mouse gastric cancer lines. Our results further indicate that FGFR4 is an important growth signal receptor in gastric cancer cells with high FGFR4 expression.
Rational design of isonicotinic acid hydrazide derivatives with antitubercular activity: Machine learning, molecular docking, synthesis and biological testing
Authors: Kovalishyn Vasyl , Grouleff Julie , Semenyuta Ivan , Sinenko Vitaliy O. , Slivchuk Sergiy R. , Hodyna Diana , Brovarets Volodymyr , Blagodatny Volodymyr , Poda Gennady , Tetko Igor V. , Metelytsia Larysa
Published: March 2018

The problem of designing new antitubercular drugs against multiple drug‐resistant tuberculosis (MDR‐TB) was addressed using advanced machine learning methods. As there are only few published measurements against MDR‐TB, we collected a large literature data set and developed models against the non‐resistant H37Rv strain. The predictive accuracy of these models had a coefficient of determination q2 = .7–.8 (regression models) and balanced accuracies of about 80% (classification models) with cross‐validation and independent test sets. The models were applied to screen a virtual chemical library, which was designed to have MDR‐TB activity. The seven most promising compounds were identified, synthesized and tested. All of them showed activity against the H37Rv strain, and three molecules demonstrated activity against the MDR‐TB strain. The docking analysis indicated that the discovered molecules could bind enoyl reductase, InhA, which is required in mycobacterial cell wall development. The models are freely available online (http://ochem.eu/article/103868) and can be used to predict potential anti‐TB activity of new chemicals.