bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stability of tapered and parallel‐walled dental implants: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Atieh Momen A. , Alsabeeha Nabeel , Duncan Warwick J.
Published: May 2018

Background

Clinical trials have suggested that dental implants with a tapered configuration have improved stability at placement, allowing immediate placement and/or loading. The aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to evaluate the implant stability of tapered dental implants compared to standard parallel‐walled dental implants.

Materials and Methods

Applying the guidelines of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses (PRISMA) statement, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were searched for in electronic databases and complemented by hand searching. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration's Risk of Bias tool and data were analyzed using statistical software.

Results

A total of 1199 studies were identified, of which, five trials were included with 336 dental implants in 303 participants. Overall meta‐analysis showed that tapered dental implants had higher implant stability values than parallel‐walled dental implants at insertion and 8 weeks but the difference was not statistically significant. Tapered dental implants had significantly less marginal bone loss compared to parallel‐walled dental implants. No significant differences in implant failure rate were found between tapered and parallel‐walled dental implants.

Conclusions

There is limited evidence to demonstrate the effectiveness of tapered dental implants in achieving greater implant stability compared to parallel‐walled dental implants. Superior short‐term results in maintaining peri‐implant marginal bone with tapered dental implants are possible. Further properly designed RCTs are required to endorse the supposed advantages of tapered dental implants in immediate loading protocol and other complex clinical scenarios.
Circulating human papillomavirus DNA as a surveillance tool in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Jensen K.K. , Grønhøj C. , Jensen D.H. , von Buchwald C.
Published: May 2018

Background

The incidence of human papillomavirus‐induced (HPV+) head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), that is, especially oropharyngeal cancers (OPSCC), is increasing, and a significant proportion of patients encounter disease progression. A simple and sensitive test to identify patients with progression is an unmet need.

Objective of Review

To systematically review the literature and carry out a meta‐analysis of studies, investigating circulating HPV‐DNA as a biomarker for disease progression in patients with HNSCC.

Type of Review

A systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Search Strategy

PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched for articles published in English from January 1980 to November 2017. Search terms used were related to HPV, cancer sites, blood‐based biomarkers and terms for specific use settings.

Evaluation Method

Articles reviewed and selected by authors and data on study design, demographic variables, location, HPV status, number of pre‐treatment blood tests, number of post‐treatment blood tests, blood HPV status and number of recurrences and length of follow‐up were extracted. A meta‐analysis of HPV‐DNA as a diagnostic test for recurrence by means of a hierarchical summary receiver operating curve (HSROC) model was performed.

Results

We identified 5 studies (n = 600 subjects) examining circulating HPV‐DNA in patients with HNSCC. In these 5 studies (n = 411), patients had both pre‐ and post‐treatment blood samples. The pooled sensitivity, in detecting a recurrence, was estimated to be 54% (95% CI: 32%‐74%), while the pooled specificity was 98% (95% CI: 93%‐99.4%). The pooled false‐positive rate is 2% (95% CI: 0.6%‐7%). The area under the curve (AUC) of the summary HSROC was 0.93. Positive predictive value was estimated to 93% and the negative predictive value to 94%.

Conclusions

Plasma HPV‐DNA is a promising tool for surveillance in patients with HPV‐related HNSCC, that is, OPSCC, and has a high specificity. By recent technical advances and by increasing follow‐up blood samples, the sensitivity could likely be improved.
Vertical transmission of herpes simplex virus: an update
Authors: Bhatta Anil Kumar , Keyal Uma , Liu Yeqiang , Gellen Emese
Published: May 2018

Herpes simplex virus (HSV)‐1 and ‐2 infections are highly prevalent worldwide. HSV infection during pregnancy can result in neonatal herpes infection, which is characterized by lifelong infection with periods of latency and reactivation. HSV can be acquired by an infant during one of three periods: in utero (5 %), peripartum (85 %), or postnatal (10 %). Neonatal HSV is a rare but significant infection that may be associated with severe morbidity and mortality, especially if there is dissemination or central nervous system involvement. Diagnostic and therapeutic advances have led to a reduction in mortality and, to a lesser extent, improvement of neurodevelopmental outcomes, but further developments are still needed. It is essential to improve the clinician's ability to identify infants who are at increased risk of HSV infection and to prevent mother‐to‐child transmission. The development of novel antiviral agents with higher efficacy is a worthwhile aim for the future.
Odonates, gregarines and water mites: why are the same host species infected by both parasites?
Authors: Ilvonen Jaakko J. , Kaunisto Kari M. , Suhonen Jukka
Published: May 2018

1. Damselflies and dragonflies are widely parasitised insects and numerous studies have tried to understand this host–parasite relationship. However, most of these studies have concentrated on a single host species, neglecting the larger pattern within the Odonata order.

2. The aim of this paper was to examine different damselfly and dragonfly species for common endo‐ and ectoparasites and whether a general infection pattern can be found. Additionally, the goal was to investigate whether the phylogeny of the host species could explain these possible infection patterns. To this end, a dataset from the existing literature was compiled and the prevalence of endoparasitic gregarines and ectoparasitic water mites was analysed for 46 different odonate species.

3. Three distinct patterns were found: (i) most of the odonate host species had both gregarines and water mites, rather than only either one or neither; (ii) there appears to be a positive association between gregarine and water mite prevalences across host species; (iii) a weak phylogenetic signal was detected in gregarine prevalence and a strong one in water mite prevalence.

4. It is hypothesised that, due to the infection and transmission mechanisms by which water mites and gregarines infect different odonate host species, parasitism is aggregated to common, high‐density species. However, much research is needed in order to fully understand this relationship between odonates and their parasites, especially within the same host populations and host species assemblages.
Child‐onset thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura caused by p.R498C and p.G259PfsX133 mutations in ADAMTS13
Authors: Schelpe An‐Sofie , Orlando Christelle , Ercig Bogac , Geeroms Chloë , Pareyn Inge , Vandeputte Nele , Velásquez Pereira Leydi Carolina , Roose Elien , Fostier Karel , Nicolaes Gerry A.F. , Deckmyn Hans , De Meyer Simon F. , Vanhoorelbeke Karen , Jochmans Kristin
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Patients suffering from congenital thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (cTTP) have a deficiency in ADAMTS13 due to mutations in their ADAMTS13 gene.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine ADAMTS13 parameters (activity, antigen, and mutations), to investigate if the propositus suffered from child‐onset cTTP, and to study the in vitro effect of the ADAMTS13 mutations.

Methods

ADAMTS13 activity and antigen were determined using the FRETS VWF73 assay and ELISA and ADAMTS13 mutations via sequencing of the exons. Mutant proteins were expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells, and their expression was studied using fluorescence microscopy and ELISA. Molecular modeling was used to evaluate the effect of the mutations on ADAMTS13 structure and stability.

Results

The propositus was diagnosed with cTTP at the age of 20. ADAMTS13 activity was below 10%, and 2 compound heterozygous mutations, the p.R498C point and the p.G259PfsX133 frameshift mutation, were identified. Expression of ADAMTS13 mutants revealed that the p.R498C and the p.G259PfsX133 mutation cause secretion and translation defects in vitro, respectively. Molecular modeling showed that the R498 intra‐domain interactions are lacking in the p.R498C mutant, resulting in protein instability.

Conclusion

The ADAMTS13 mutations result in a severe ADAMTS13 deficiency explaining the patient’s phenotype.
Postnatal development of cholinergic input to the thalamic reticular nucleus of the mouse
Authors: Sokhadze Guela , Campbell Peter W. , Guido William
Published: May 2018

The thalamic reticular nucleus (TRN), a shell‐like structure comprised of GABAergic neurons, gates signal transmission between thalamus and cortex. While TRN is innervated by axon collaterals of thalamocortical and corticothalamic neurons, other ascending projections modulate activity during different behavioral states such as attention, arousal, and sleep‐wake cycles. One of the largest arise from cholinergic neurons of the basal forebrain and brainstem. Despite its integral role, little is known about how or when cholinergic innervation and synapse formation occurs. We utilized genetically modified mice, which selectively express fluorescent protein and/or channelrhodopsin‐2 in cholinergic neurons, to visualize and stimulate cholinergic afferents in the developing TRN. Cholinergic innervation of TRN follows a ventral‐to‐dorsal progression, with nonvisual sensory sectors receiving input during week 1, and the visual sector during week 2. By week 3, the density of cholinergic fibers increases throughout TRN and forms a reticular profile. Functional patterns of connectivity between cholinergic fibers and TRN neurons progress in a similar manner, with weak excitatory nicotinic responses appearing in nonvisual sectors near the end of week 1. By week 2, excitatory responses become more prevalent and arise in the visual sector. Between weeks 3–4, inhibitory muscarinic responses emerge, and responses become biphasic, exhibiting a fast excitatory, and a long‐lasting inhibitory component. Overall, the development of cholinergic projections in TRN follows a similar plan as the rest of sensory thalamus, with innervation of nonvisual structures preceding visual ones, and well after the establishment of circuits conveying sensory information from the periphery to the cortex.
Nonuniform impacts of forward suppression on neural responses to preferred stimuli and nonpreferred stimuli in the rat auditory cortex
Authors: Gao Fei , Chen Liang , Zhang Jiping
Published: May 2018

In natural conditions, human and animals need to extract target sound information from noisy acoustic environments for communication and survival. However, how the contextual environmental sounds impact the tuning of central auditory neurons to target sound source azimuth over a wide range of sound levels is not fully understood. Here, we determined the azimuth‐level response areas (ALRAs) of rat auditory cortex neurons by recording their responses to probe tones varying with levels and sound source azimuths under both quiet (probe alone) and forward masking conditions (preceding noise + probe). In quiet, cortical neurons responded stronger to their preferred stimuli than to their nonpreferred stimuli. In forward masking conditions, an effective preceding noise reduced the extents of the ALRAs and suppressed the neural responses across the ALRAs by decreasing the response strength and lengthening the first‐spike latency. The forward suppressive effect on neural response strength was increased with increasing masker level and decreased with prolonging the time interval between masker and probe. For a portion of cortical neurons studied, the effects of forward suppression on the response strength to preferred stimuli was weaker than those to nonpreferred stimuli, and the recovery from forward suppression of the response strength to preferred stimuli was earlier than that to nonpreferred stimuli. We suggest that this nonuniform forward suppression of neural responses to preferred stimuli and to nonpreferred stimuli is important for cortical neurons to maintain their relative stable preferences for target sound source azimuth and level in noisy acoustic environments.
Association between hyperinsulinaemia and laminitis severity at the time of pituitarypars intermediadysfunction diagnosis
Authors: Tadros E. M. , Fowlie J. G. , Refsal K. R. , Marteniuk J. , Schott H. C.
Published: May 2018

Background

Hyperinsulinaemia is the suspected component of insulin dysregulation having the strongest association with laminitis and occurs variably in equids with pituitarypars intermediadysfunction (PPID).

Objectives

We hypothesised that magnitude of hyperinsulinaemia correlates with laminitis severity in PPID‐affected equids. Furthermore, we hypothesised that owners can be unaware of chronic endocrinopathic laminitis.

Study design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Serum insulin concentrations, owner‐reported laminitis history and radiographic evidence of laminitis were determined in 38 client‐owned horses and ponies with confirmed PPID. Laminitis severity was classified into four categories (normal [nonlaminitic], mild, moderate or severe laminitis) based on degree of distal phalangeal rotation. Animals were also categorised as normoinsulinaemic (<20 μU/ml), mildly hyperinsulinaemic (20–50 μU/ml) and severely hyperinsulinaemic (>50 μU/ml). One‐way ANOVA,ttests and Fisher's exact tests were performed.

Results

While owners reported laminitis in 37% of animals, 76% were laminitic based on study criteria (P = 0.01). Owners reported laminitis more frequently in hyperinsulinaemic vs. normoinsulinaemic animals; recognition increased with severity of hyperinsulinaemia (P = 0.03). Mean insulin concentrations were higher in equids with moderate to severe radiographic laminitis (geometric mean 74.1, 95% confidence interval (CI) 38.4–143.1 uU/ml) vs. those classified radiographically as normal to mild (31.9, 95% CI 21.1–48.1 uU/ml P = 0.03).

Main limitations

Dynamic insulin testing was not performed; some normoinsulinaemic animals might have had subtle insulin dysregulation.

Conclusions

Although radiographic abnormalities were present in most animals at the time of PPID diagnosis, chronic laminitis remained unrecognised by many owners. Owner awareness of laminitis increased with severity of hyperinsulinaemia and higher insulin concentrations were detected in association with more severe radiographic changes.

The Summary is available in Chinese – See Supporting Information.
Muscle fiber type diversity revealed by anti‐myosin heavy chain antibodies
Authors: Schiaffino Stefano
Published: May 2018

Different forms of myosin heavy chains (MyHCs), coded by a large family of sarcomeric MYH genes, are expressed in striated muscles. The generation of specific anti‐MyHC antibodies has provided a powerful tool to define the fiber types present in skeletal muscles, their functional properties, their response to conditions that affect muscle plasticity and their changes in muscle disorders. Cardiomyocyte heterogeneity has been revealed by the serendipitous observation that different MyHCs are present in atrial and ventricular myocardium and in heart conduction tissue. Developmental MyHCs present in embryonic and fetal/neonatal skeletal muscle are re‐expressed during muscle regeneration and can be used to identify regenerating fibers in muscle diseases. MyHC isoforms provide cell type‐specific markers to identify the signaling pathways that control muscle cell identity and are an essential reference to interpret the results of single‐cell transcriptomics and proteomics.
Durability assessment via residual strength and viscoelastic observations on filled rubber compounds
Authors: Liu R. , Sancaktar E.
Published: May 2018

Because rubber compounds are widely used under cyclic loading conditions, such as tire applications, their fatigue behaviour has been studied for a long time. Two main stages are commonly considered in studying rubber fatigue: crack nucleation and crack growth. Not many studies exist on the residual strength of rubber subsequent to fatigue loading. In this study, the residual strength method is used to model fatigue behaviour of carbon black‐filled and silica‐filled styrene‐butadiene rubber (SBR) compounds. Samples are subjected to repeated fatigue loading (ie, nonzero mean stress) using different strain amplitudes and then subjected to uniaxial constant crosshead rate, relaxation, and creep tests to assess their residual strength and viscoelastic behaviours respectively. The residual strength results are compared with typical S‐N curves. Initial relaxation rates, initial creep rates, asymptotic relaxation values, and secondary creep rates are plotted as functions of fatigue cycle number to understand the viscoelastic behaviours of carbon black and silica‐filled SBR compounds as affected by fatigue processes.
Greater macroinvertebrate diversity and freshwater mussel density in meander margins of an Amazon river
Authors: Simeone Diego , Santos Cristiney , Gisane Flávia , Tagliaro Claudia Helena , Beasley Colin Robert
Published: May 2018

Meanders are complex aquatic environments exhibiting different flow and sediment characteristics that influence macroinvertebrate distribution. Differences in macroinvertebrate composition, freshwater mussel density (mainly Castalia ambigua Lamarck, 1819) and habitat variables were investigated, using uni‐ and multivariate analyses, in two zones, the margin and thalweg, of the meanders of a 7‐km stretch of a morphologically unaltered tropical alluvial lowland river. Clear differences were found between meander zones, with greater taxonomic and functional diversity of macroinvertebrates and greater freshwater mussel densities in the meander margin. A total of 12 families of macroinvertebrates were exclusive to the meander margin, and macroinvertebrate indicators of zones were Philopotamidae and Leptoceridae (meander margin) and Chironomidae and Elmidae (meander thalweg). In the meander margin, there were no differences in macroinvertebrate abundance, and taxonomic and functional group diversity among areas with low, medium and high mussel density. Macroinvertebrate abundance did not vary between zones, but in both, abundance was associated with lower pH and higher electrical conductivity. Low shear velocity, which stabilises the river bed, high organic matter content and percentage silt in the meander margin were associated with higher taxonomic and functional macroinvertebrate diversity, as well as the presence of freshwater mussels. Natural unaltered meanders are spatially heterogeneous in both habitat and biodiversity and, similar to restored meanders, support greater macroinvertebrate taxonomic and functional diversity, as well as maintain freshwater mussel beds, mainly by stabilising the river bed. The meander margin may also be important for attracting mussel host fish that feed on macroinvertebrates and aid mussel dispersal. Thus, the meander margins, and other similar riparian habitats with low shear velocity, for example, side channels and pools, have potentially high conservation value and should be afforded due protection.
Effects of chronic elevated nitrate concentrations on the structure and function of river biofilms
Authors: Koch Ryan , Kerling David , O'Brien Jonathan M.
Published: May 2018

Biofilms play an important role in nutrient cycling and retention in streams and rivers, altering transport of nitrate () to downstream ecosystems. However, increased nutrient availability may alter biofilm composition and function.

We assessed effects of chronic N pollution on biofilm function by incubating initially thin (i.e., early stage) and well‐developed biofilms in laboratory chambers at four concentrations (0, 0.5, 5 and 25 mg N/L).

For initially thin biofilms, elevated resulted in greater photosynthesis, higher chlorophyll contents and greater biomass accrual. Elevated also increased heterotrophic activity by increasing extracellular enzyme activity and heterotrophic respiration. However, well‐developed biofilms had lower growth and were less responsive to added elevated .

Uptake kinetics showed a consistent decrease in cell‐specific maximum uptake (Umax) with elevated treatments. As a result, ambient uptake at experimental concentrations was essentially constant per unit photosynthesis across the range of concentration and uptake was apparently driven by biofilm growth.

Across treatments, initially thin biofilms shifted from a diatom‐dominated community to a community dominated by green algae and cyanobacteria. However, well‐developed biofilms were not affected by chronic in terms of biomass or enzyme activities.

Our results show that chronic loading alters biofilm growth patterns, physiology, algal community composition and relationship between algae and bacteria. Taken together, these results provide a set of mechanisms to explain the efficiency loss of uptake as a function of stream nitrogen concentration seen in field studies.
The Effect of OnabotulinumtoxinA on Aura Frequency and Severity in Patients With Hemiplegic Migraine: Case Series of 11 Patients
Authors: Chen Tiffany Y. , Garza Ivan , Dodick David W. , Robertson Carrie E.
Published: May 2018

Background

OnabotulinumtoxinA has been demonstrated to be effective for the preventive treatment of headache in individuals with chronic migraine and has been approved and recommended for this patient population. While the therapeutic effect of onabotulinumtoxinA on migraine headache is well documented, there is limited information on the effect of onabotulinumtoxinA on migraine aura.

Objective

Given the prolonged and often debilitating nature of aura in patients with hemiplegic migraine, our group sought to examine the effect of onabotulinumtoxinA on aura frequency and severity in this specific subset of migraine patients.

Methods

All clinical notes from July 1, 1994 to December 1, 2017 at our institution were retrospectively reviewed to identify patients diagnosed with hemiplegic migraine who received at least one set of onabotulinumtoxinA injections. Thirty‐four patients were identified; and of those, 23 were excluded due to incomplete documentation regarding aura symptoms at follow‐up visits. The clinical notes of the remaining 11 patients (4 with familial hemiplegic migraine [FHM] and 7 with sporadic hemiplegic migraine [SHM]) were reviewed, and the frequency and description of their headaches and aura before and after receiving onabotulinumtoxinA were recorded.

Results

Nine of the 11 patients in our series noted a decrease in the frequency, severity, and/or duration of their aura after receiving onabotulinumtoxinA. Of the 2 non‐responders, one was FHM and one was SHM. Of the 9 that noticed improved aura symptoms, 6 described a “wearing off” effect of onabotulinumtoxinA around week 9 or 10 of the 12‐week cycle, with subsequent improvement after the next round.

Conclusion

For 9 of 11 patients with hemiplegic migraine, onabotulinumtoxinA was helpful not only in reducing the frequency and severity of headaches but also in reducing the frequency and severity of the aura. In this manuscript, we speculate on potential pathophysiologic mechanisms that could have contributed to this effect.
Remaining hepatocellular carcinoma risk in chronic hepatitis B patients receiving entecavir/tenofovir in South Korea
Authors: Yu Jung Hwan , Jin Young‐Joo , Lee Jin‐Woo , Lee Don‐Haeng
Published: May 2018

Aim

We aimed to identify the incidence rate of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients treated with entecavir or tenofovir in South Korea, and to identify predictors of HCC development in these patients.

Methods

Between January 2007 and December 2015, 582 CHB patients initially received entecavir (n = 406, 69.8%) or tenofovir (n = 176, 30.2%) for CHB.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 57.1 months, HCC developed in 38 (6.5%) of the 582 patients, regardless of antiviral agent type. Entecavir‐ and tenofovir‐treated patients had similar HCC development rates (P = 0.471). For the 582 patients, 2‐, 4‐, and 6‐year cumulative HCC development rates were 2.6%, 4.4%, and 8.3%, respectively, and the 2‐, 4‐, and 6‐year cumulative HCC development rates of patients with liver cirrhosis were significantly greater than those of patients without liver cirrhosis (6.2%, 9.8%, and 18.4% vs. 0.3%, 1.1%, and 2.2%, respectively; P < 0.001). Older (≥60 years) patients, regardless of the presence of cirrhosis, and cirrhotic patients aged ≥40 years showed significantly higher risk of HCC development compared to others (both P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that an older age (≥50 years; hazard ratio [HR] 5.02, P = 0.009), and the presence of cirrhosis (HR 4.95, P = 0.002) independently predicted HCC development.

Conclusions

The 6‐year cumulative HCC development rate was 6.5% in CHB patients treated with entecavir or tenofovir. Age ≥50 years and liver cirrhosis were found to predict HCC development in these patients.
Evaluation of the effects of the solution used for electrochemical dissolution of nickel–titanium endodontic files on dentine structure, microhardness and cell viability
Authors: Amaral C. C. F. , Ormiga F. , Boldrini L. C. , Miranda P. G. , Mendonça T. A. , Granjeiro J. M. , Gomes J. A. C. P.
Published: May 2018

Aim

To evaluate the effects of the [NaF 12 g L−1 + NaCl 1 g L−1] solution used in the electrochemical dissolution process of fractured endodontic files, as well as its NiTi‐containing product, on dentine hardness, topography and human fibroblast viability.

Methodology

Sixty single‐rooted human teeth were evaluated for dentine microhardness using the Vickers hardness test and the area and number of dentinal tubules by scanning electron microscopy. The samples were divided according to the dentine surface treatment: distilled water; 17% EDTA; [NaF 12 g L−1 + NaCl 1 g L−1]; and 17% EDTA + [NaF 12 g L−1 + NaCl 1 g L−1]. Thirty‐six single‐rooted human teeth were divided according to the irrigation protocol: Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium + 10% foetal bovine serum; 5.25% NaOCl; [NaF 12 g L−1 + NaCl 1 g L−1]; and [NaF 12 g L−1 + NaCl 1 g L−1 + NiTi]. The extracts in contact with the apical foramen were used in the MTT assay to evaluate human fibroblast viability, with dilutions of 100%, 50%, 25% and 12.5%. Statistical tests used were paired t‐tests, one‐way anova, Tukey's test, Kruskal–Wallis test and Dunn's post‐test.

Results

The [NaF 12 g L−1 + NaCl 1 g L−1] solution did not modify dentine microhardness or the average dentinal tubule area. However, EDTA induced changes in dentine structure and microhardness (P < 0.05). The [NaF 12 g L−1 + NaCl 1 g L−1] solution, and its NiTi‐containing product had lower cytotoxicity than NaOCl at dilutions of 25% and 50% (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

The [NaF 12 g L−1 + NaCl 1 g L−1] solution did not alter dentine microhardness or damage the dentine structure. It also demonstrated lower cytotoxicity than NaOCl.
Polyserositis: a diagnostic challenge
Authors: Losada Inés , González‐Moreno Juan , Roda Nuria , Ventayol Lola , Borjas Yolanda , Domínguez Francisco J. , Fernández‐Baca Victoria , García‐Gasalla Mercedes , Payeras Antoni
Published: May 2018

Background

Polyserositis (PS) is the inflammation, with effusion, of different serous membranes. It has been associated with different aetiologies, but the aetiology of PS remains unknown in a high percentage of patients.

Aims

The general objective of this retrospective study was to analyse the aetiology of PS cases seen at Son Llàtzer Hospital in an 11‐year period. Other objectives were to determine the epidemiological, clinical and analytical characteristics of these patients.

Methods

An observational, descriptive and retrospective study to analyse the aetiology of PS cases seen at Son Llàtzer Hospital. The inflammation of two or more serous membranes confirmed by an imaging test was required and at least one of the serous fluid should be an exudate.

Results

A total of 92 patients was included in the study. The most common diagnosis was neoplasm (nearly one‐third of cases) followed by infectious and autoimmune diseases. PS aetiology was unknown in more than one‐third. Pleura and pericardium were the most common sites of serosal involvement (83%). Antinuclear antibodies’ positivity in serum and increased levels of adenosine deaminase in pleural effusion were significantly associated with a final diagnosis of autoimmune disease. Increased pleural lactate dehydrogenase levels were significantly associated with a final diagnosis of neoplasm. In 9 of 14 patients with a previous cancer, PS represented a recurrence of their cancer. Cases of unknown aetiology presented most frequently as pleural and pericardial involvement, and the majority resolved. In very few patients, an infectious aetiology could be proven.

Conclusion

PS is a frequent clinical entity that is associated with different diseases and its diagnosis could be challenging, with a high rate of unknown aetiologies.
Epidemiology and phylogenetic analysis of hepatitis D virus infection in Australia
Authors: Jackson Kathy , MacLachlan Jennifer , Cowie Benjamin , Locarnini Stephen , Bowden Scott , Higgins Nasra , Karapanagiotidis Theo , Nicholson Suellen , Littlejohn Margaret
Published: May 2018

Background

The incidence and trends of the hepatitis D virus (HDV) in Australia have not been recently assessed, and the circulating genotypes have never been determined.

Aim

To characterise the current virology and epidemiology of HDV.

Methods

Notifiable disease surveillance and laboratory testing data were analysed to assess demographics, risk factors and trends. HDV serology and RNA testing were performed on requested samples from 2010 to 2016. Sequencing of a 500‐nucleotide amplicon of the delta antigen and phylogenetic analysis of the strains from 2009 to 2016 were also conducted.

Results

Ninety HDV notifications were reported to the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services between 2010 and 2016. The majority (64.4%) of those diagnosed were born overseas, most commonly in Sudan, Pakistan and Vietnam. Over the same period, 190 patients tested positive for anti‐HDV serology and 166 for HDV RNA. Sequencing of isolates from 169 individuals between 2009 and 2016 found that 80.5% strains were genotype 1, 16% genotype 5 and 3.5% genotype 2. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the relatedness of strains from birth country, demonstrated the presence of the ‘Pacific Island’ genotype 1 strain in Queensland and supported possible transmission in correctional facilities and within families.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the ongoing need for routine HDV screening and engagement in clinical care for people living with HBV in Australia. Epidemiological findings highlight the diversity in those affected and provide insights into local and global geographic distribution and transmission patterns.
The underreporting of medication errors: A retrospective and comparative root cause analysis in an acute mental health unit over a 3‐year period
Authors: Morrison Maeve , Cope Vicki , Murray Melanie
Published: May 2018

Medication errors remain a commonly reported clinical incident in health care as highlighted by the World Health Organization's focus to reduce medication‐related harm. This retrospective quantitative analysis examined medication errors reported by staff using an electronic Clinical Incident Management System (CIMS) during a 3‐year period from April 2014 to April 2017 at a metropolitan mental health ward in Western Australia. The aim of the project was to identify types of medication errors and the context in which they occur and to consider recourse so that medication errors can be reduced. Data were retrieved from the Clinical Incident Management System database and concerned medication incidents from categorized tiers within the system. Areas requiring improvement were identified, and the quality of the documented data captured in the database was reviewed for themes pertaining to medication errors. Content analysis provided insight into the following issues: (i) frequency of problem, (ii) when the problem was detected, and (iii) characteristics of the error (classification of drug/s, where the error occurred, what time the error occurred, what day of the week it occurred, and patient outcome). Data were compared to the state‐wide results published in the Your Safety in Our Hands (2016) report. Results indicated several areas upon which quality improvement activities could be focused. These include the following: structural changes; changes to policy and practice; changes to individual responsibilities; improving workplace culture to counteract underreporting of medication errors; and improvement in safety and quality administration of medications within a mental health setting.
Perceptions of sex offenders with intellectual disability: A comparison of forensic staff and the general public
Authors: Steans Jennifer , Duff Simon
Published: May 2018

Background

Existing literature suggests that individuals with intellectual disability are not always held accountable for their actions and forensic staff are unlikely to report their sexually harmful behaviour.

Method

This research explores how categorization of an offender as having intellectual disability and the framing of an offence as planned or opportunistic, impacts upon ratings of risk, blame and intent by forensic staff and the general public. The impact of pre‐existing attitudes towards sex offenders upon these ratings was also considered.

Results

Differences are identified between participants’ ratings when the offender is categorized as having an intellectual disability. More positive attitudes are associated with lower ratings of several factors.

Conclusions

Individuals with overly positive attitudes towards sex offenders could underestimate the risk posed by sex offenders with intellectual disability. These results are important to consider alongside the NHS Transforming Care Agenda.
The role of professionals in promoting independent living: Perspectives of self‐advocates and front‐line managers
Authors: Pallisera Maria , Vilà Montserrat , Fullana Judit , Díaz‐Garolera Gemma , Puyalto Carolina , Valls Maria‐Josep
Published: May 2018

Background

Support from professionals plays an important role in helping people with intellectual disabilities to live an independent life. This research aims to analyse the role played by support professionals based on the perceptions of the professionals and self‐advocates with intellectual disabilities. The research was conducted in Catalonia (Spain).

Method

A total of 33 interviews were conducted with front‐line managers and 10 focus groups with 72 self‐advocates. These were recorded and transcribed, and then analysed using thematic content analysis.

Results

Self‐advocates particularly value professionals' interpersonal skills and emotional support. Front‐line managers and self‐advocates highlight training actions aimed at enhancing autonomy in the home and propose fostering natural supports and increasing the involvement of people with disabilities.

Conclusions

Making progress in the rights of people with intellectual disabilities to an independent life requires requires transforming the support model, promoting decision making among people with intellectual disabilities, and strengthening interpersonal skills linked to emotional support in the training of professionals.
Linc00483 as ceRNA regulates proliferation and apoptosis through activating MAPKs in gastric cancer
Authors: Li Defeng , Yang Meifeng , Liao Aijun , Zeng Bing , Liu Diqun , Yao Yuhong , Hu Guangsheng , Chen Xuanmin , Feng Zhiqiang , Du Yanlei , Zhou Youlian , He Jie , Nie Yuqiang
Published: May 2018

Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are important regulators of many cellular processes, and their aberrant expression and/or function is associated with many different diseases, including cancer. However, the identification of functional lncRNAs in gastric cancer is still a challenge. In this study, we describe a novel functional lncRNA, linc00483, that is upregulated and associated with tumorigenesis, tumour size, metastasis and poor prognosis in gastric cancer. In our study, linc00483 promoted gastric cancer cell proliferation, invasiveness and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, upregulated expression of linc00483 in gastric cancer acts as a sponge to absorb endogenous tumour suppressor miR‐30a‐3p. Furthermore, it restores SPAG9 expression, which is negatively regulated by miR‐30a‐3p, and actives MAPK signaling pathway in gastric cancer cells. Thus, linc00483 is an oncogenic lncRNA in gastric cancer and targeting linc00483 or its pathway can potentially be useful in development of targeted therapies for patients with gastric cancer. Our results show that linc00483 is an important regulator in carcinogenesis and may be a useful biomarker to predict prognosis of gastric cancer patients. We believe our findings are novel and will be of interest to scientists working in many areas related to biomarkers in cancer.
Proximal restoration increases the risk of clinical attachment loss
Authors: Collares Kauê , Demarco Flávio F. , Horta Bernardo L. , Correa Marcos B.
Published: May 2018

Aim

To estimate the effect of proximal direct restorations in the adjacent periodontal tissues in adults from a birth cohort.

Materials and methods

A representative sample (n = 539) of all 5,914 births occurring in Pelotas, Brazil in 1982 was prospectively investigated, being clinical attachment loss (CAL), probing depth (PD), and bleeding on probing (BOP) assessed at 31‐year old. For each site, tooth surface was evaluated as sound or restored, being the restoration extension (subgingival or supragingival) and restoration material (composite and amalgam) considered. Covariables included family income, untreated caries, and service utilization patterns during life course. Multilevel Poisson regression models were used, considering three levels of variables organization: periodontal site, dental, and individual level.

Results

Among the 28,796 periodontal sites evaluated, CAL and PD ≥ 4 mm was observed in 1.5% and 4.8%, respectively. Multilevel models showed that proximal restorations had a significant effect on CAL and PD. Subgingival and amalgam restorations showed greater effect when compared to supragingival and composite restorations, respectively.

Conclusions

The present study partially supports the hypothesis that proximal restorations are associated with the presence of periodontal damage. Although not indicative of disease, a significant increase was observed in CAL and PD at restored sites.
Four polymorphisms in the IL‐22 gene and the risk of cancer: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhang Jie , Zhao Taiqiang , Xu Chengjie , Yu Hua
Published: May 2018

Objective

IL‐22 plays an important role in cancer carcinogenesis. However, the association between IL‐22 polymorphisms and cancer risk was inconclusive. The objective of the current study was to assess these associations by meta‐analysis.

Methods

PubMed, EMbase, CNKI, VIP, and Wanfang databases were searched up to 31 January 2018. The results were screened according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The associations between polymorphisms and cancer risk were estimated by meta‐analysis. All analyses were performed using the Revman5.3 software.

Results

A total of four polymorphisms (rs2227485, rs1179251, rs1179246, and rs1182844) in seven studies were included. The results of meta‐analysis indicated that the rs1179251 polymorphism [OR = 1.46, 95% CI (1.17, 1.82), P = 0.0008 for GG+GC vs. CC] was associated with increased risk of cancer, while the rs2227485, rs1179246, and rs1182844 polymorphisms were not associated with cancer risk.

Conclusions

The current meta‐analysis suggests that IL‐22 gene rs1179251 polymorphism may be a risk factor for cancer.
Two successive phases of ultrahigh temperature metamorphism in Rogaland, S. Norway: Evidence from Y‐in‐monazite thermometry
Authors: Laurent Antonin T. , Duchene Stephanie , Bingen Bernard , Bosse Valerie , Seydoux‐Guillaume Anne‐Magali
Published: May 2018

In Rogaland, South Norway, a polycyclic granulite facies metamorphic domain surrounds the late‐Sveconorwegian anorthosite–mangerite–charnockite (AMC) plutonic complex. Integrated petrology, phase equilibria modelling, monazite microchemistry, Y‐in‐monazite thermometry, and monazite U–Th–Pb geochronology in eight samples, distributed across the apparent metamorphic field gradient, imply a sequence of two successive phases of ultrahigh temperature (UHT) metamorphism in the time window between 1,050 and 910 Ma. A first long‐lived metamorphic cycle (M1) between 1,045 ± 8 and 992 ± 11 Ma is recorded by monazite in all samples. This cycle is interpreted to represent prograde clockwise P–T path involving melt production in fertile protoliths and culminating in UHT conditions of ~6 kbar and 920°C. Y‐in‐monazite thermometry, in a residual garnet‐absent sapphirine–orthopyroxene granulite, provides critical evidence for average temperature of 931 and 917°C between 1,029 ± 9 and 1,006 ± 8 Ma. Metamorphism peaked after c. 20 Ma of crustal melting and melt extraction, probably supported by a protracted asthenospheric heat source following lithospheric mantle delamination. Between 990 and 940 Ma, slow conductive cooling to 750–800°C is characterized by monazite reactivity as opposed to silicate metastability. A second incursion (M2) to UHT conditions of ~3.5–5 kbar and 900–950°C, is recorded by Y‐rich monazite at 930 ± 6 Ma in an orthopyroxene–cordierite–hercynite gneiss and by an osumilite gneiss. This M2 metamorphism, typified by osumilite paragenesis, is related to the intrusion of the AMC plutonic complex at 931 ± 2 Ma. Thermal preconditioning of the crust during the first UHT metamorphism may explain the width of the aureole of contact metamorphism c. 75 Ma later, and also the rarity of osumilite‐bearing assemblages in general.
Visualisation of insect tracheal systems by lactic acid immersion
Authors: RUAN Y. , LI Y. , ZHANG M. , CHEN X. , LIU Z. , WANG S. , JIANG S.
Published: May 2018

The endeavours to reveal the tracheal system of insects and some arachnids has a long history. The traditional way to observe a tracheal system in an insect body is by utilising the glycerin immersion method. In this study, we developed the lactic acid immersion method, which reveals a more complete tracheal system. By mounting various types of live specimens or body parts directly into lactic acid, multiple intact and complex tracheal systems were clearly visualised. The lactic acid immersion contributed to revealing tracheal systems by penetrating body tissue while reserving enough time for observation before the penetration of the tracheae. Preliminary comparisons were conducted between lactic acid and other mediae, including glycerin. It turned out that lactic acid immersion provides better details and more distinct structures. In our test, the optimal time for observing the tracheal system was 10–25 min after the organism was immersed in lactic acid.
C7 vertebra homeotic transformation in domestic dogs – are Pug dogs breaking mammalian evolutionary constraints?
Authors: Brocal J. , De Decker S. , José‐López R. , Manzanilla E. G. , Penderis J. , Stalin C. , Bertram S. , Schoenebeck J. J. , Rusbridge C. , Fitzpatrick N. , Gutierrez‐Quintana R.
Published: May 2018

The number of cervical vertebrae in mammals is almost constant at seven, regardless of their neck length, implying that there is selection against variation in this number. Homebox (Hox) genes are involved in this evolutionary mammalian conservation, and homeotic transformation of cervical into thoracic vertebrae (cervical ribs) is a common phenotypic abnormality when Hox gene expression is altered. This relatively benign phenotypic change can be associated with fatal traits in humans. Mutations in genes upstream of Hox, inbreeding and stressors during organogenesis can also cause cervical ribs. The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of cervical ribs in a large group of domestic dogs of different breeds, and explore a possible relation with other congenital vertebral malformations (CVMs) in the breed with the highest prevalence of cervical ribs. By phenotyping we hoped to give clues as to the underlying genetic causes. Twenty computed tomography studies from at least two breeds belonging to each of the nine groups recognized by the Federation Cynologique Internationale, including all the brachycephalic ‘screw‐tailed’ breeds that are known to be overrepresented for CVMs, were reviewed. The Pug dog was more affected by cervical ribs than any other breed (46%; P < 0.001), and was selected for further analysis. No association was found between the presence of cervical ribs and vertebral body formation defect, bifid spinous process, caudal articular process hypoplasia/aplasia and an abnormal sacrum, which may infer they have a different aetiopathogenesis. However, Pug dogs with cervical ribs were more likely to have a transitional thoraco‐lumbar vertebra (P = 0.041) and a pre‐sacral vertebral count of 26 (P < 0.001). Higher C7/T1 dorsal spinous processes ratios were associated with the presence of cervical ribs (P < 0.001), supporting this is a true homeotic transformation. Relaxation of the stabilizing selection has likely occurred, and the Pug dog appears to be a good naturally occurring model to further investigate the aetiology of cervical ribs, other congenital vertebral anomalies and numerical alterations.
Effect of dietary counselling with prosthetic restoration on fruit and vegetable intake in partially dentate patients: A prospective study
Authors: Nabeshima G. , Fueki K. , Inamochi Y. , Wakabayashi N.
Published: May 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a counselling‐based dietary intervention on nutritional status in partially dentate patients receiving removable partial dentures (RPDs). Thirty‐eight patients [mean age (standard deviation): 73.2 (7.7) years] who were scheduled to receive RPDs at a dental hospital and were currently eating <350 g of vegetables per day were included in the study. A dentist provided basic dietary counselling aimed at increasing dietary fruit and vegetable intake and improving dietary habits. Patients received dietary counselling directly after treatment with new RPDs and at 1 week after a 1‐month follow‐up evaluation (T1). Food intake was assessed via a validated brief‐type self‐administered diet history questionnaire, and carotenoids and vitamin C in 6‐hour fasting blood samples were measured before RPD administration, and at 1 (T1) and 3 months (T3) thereafter. Vegetable but not the fruit intake increased significantly at T1 and T3 compared to before treatment. Alpha carotene significantly increased at T3 while β significantly increased both at T1 and T3 compared to before treatment (P < .05). The number of occlusal units on natural teeth was significantly positively associated with increased vegetable and β‐carotene intake (P < .05). Serum carotenoids and vitamin C levels measured with 6‐hour fasting blood samples remained constant. These results suggest that basic dietary counselling may improve vegetable intake in partially dentate patients receiving RPD treatment, but did not lead to haematological changes. The presence of occlusion of remaining posterior teeth may be critical for improving vegetable intake.