bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mineral trioxide aggregate upregulates odonto/osteogenic capacity of bone marrow stromal cells from craniofacial bones via JNK and ERK MAPK signalling pathways
Authors: Wang Y. , Li J. , Song W. , Yu J.
Published: March 2014

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate effects of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) on odonto/osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) from craniofacial bones.

Materials and methods

Craniofacial BMSCs were isolated from rat mandible and effects of MTA on their proliferation, differentiation and MAPK pathway involvement were subsequently investigated, in vitro. MTT (3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐2,5‐tetrazoliumbromide) assay was performed to evaluate proliferation of the MTA‐treated cells. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, alizarin red staining, real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blot assays were used to assess differentiation capacity as well as MAPK pathway involvement.

Results

0.02 mg/ml MTA‐treated BMSCs had significantly higher ALP activity and formed more mineralized nodules than the untreated group. Odonto/osteoblastic marker genes/proteins (Alp, Runx2/RUNX2, Osx/OSX, Ocn/OCN and Dspp/DSP respectively) in MTA‐treated cells were remarkably upregulated compared to untreated ones. Mechanistically, phosphorylated Jun N‐terminal kinase (P‐JNK) and phosphorylated extracellular regulated protein kinases (P‐ERK) in MTA‐treated BMSCs increased significantly in a time‐dependent manner, while inhibition of JNK and ERK MAPK pathways dramatically blocked MTA‐induced odonto/osteoblastic differentiation, as indicated by reduced ALP levels, weakened mineralization capacity and downregulated levels of odonto/osteoblastic marker genes (Alp, Runx2, Osx, Ocn and Dspp).

Conclusion

Mineral trioxide aggregate promoted odonto/osteogenic capacity of craniofacial BMSCs via JNK and ERK MAPK signalling pathways.
EUS‐guided FNA cytology of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour (PanNET): a retrospective study of 132 cases over an 18‐year period in a single institution
Authors: Chen S. , Lin J. , Wang X. , Wu H. H. , Cramer H.
Published: March 2014

Objective

To determine the diagnostic accuracy and pitfalls of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)‐guided fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytology of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour (PanNET).

Methods

A search of our laboratory information system was performed from July 1992 to June 2010 to identify all FNA cytology and corresponding surgical specimens in which the diagnosis of PanNET was rendered or considered.

Results

One hundred and thirty‐two cases diagnosed by EUS‐guided FNA were collected. Histological correlation was available for 77 (58%) of FNAs; 55 patients may have been treated elsewhere or had no surgery because of advanced disease or co‐morbidity. Among 56 cases diagnosed as PanNET on FNA, 54 (96%) were confirmed histologically; the remaining two were poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma with focal neuroendocrine features in one case and no tumour was found in the other. Follow‐up histology of nine patients diagnosed as suspicious for PanNET on FNA showed four PanNETs, two pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDA), one solid pseudopapillary tumour (SPT) and two cases of chronic pancreatitis. Nine cases rendered by FNA as atypical (n = 3), no atypical cells identified (n = 4) or unsatisfactory (n = 2) were PanNETs on histology. Lastly, three cases of oncocytic variant of PanNET were misdiagnosed on FNA as either adenocarcinoma (n = 2) or as suspicious for carcinoma (n = 1).

Conclusions

Overall, 54 of the 70 histologically confirmed PanNET cases (77%) were correctly diagnosed by preoperative FNA as PanNET. FNA cases designated as no atypical cells identified and unsatisfactory (7/132, 5%) were attributable to sampling error. Diagnostic pitfalls in our study mainly included PDA, SPT and chronic pancreatitis.
Follow the liar: the effects of adult lies on children's honesty
Authors: Hays Chelsea , Carver Leslie J.
Published: March 2014

Recent research shows that most adults admit they lie to children. We also know that children learn through modeling and imitation. To date there are no published studies that examine whether lying to children has an effect on children's honesty. We aimed to bridge the gap in this literature by examining the effects of adults' lies on elementary and preschool‐aged children's behavior using a modified temptation resistance paradigm, in which children are tempted to peek at a toy they have been told not to look at, and later given a chance to either admit peeking, or try to conceal their transgression by lying. Prior to being tested, half of the children were told a lie and half were not. We then measured both cheating (peeking) and lie‐telling behaviors. We hypothesized that lying to a child would increase the likelihood that they would both peek at the toy and lie about having done so. Results showed that school‐age children were more likely to peek if they had been lied to, and were also more likely to lie about peeking. In contrast with the school‐age children, there was no difference in peeking or lying for preschoolers who were and were not lied to. These results have important implications for parenting and educational settings.
A meta‐analysis of the hypoglycaemic risk in randomized controlled trials with sulphonylureas in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Monami M. , Dicembrini I. , Kundisova L. , Zannoni S. , Nreu B. , Mannucci E.
Published: March 2014

Aim

To assess hypoglycaemic risk with sulphonylureas in comparison with other drugs in randomized controlled trials.

Methods

Randomized trials with a duration ≥24 weeks, enrolling patients with type 2 diabetes, comparing sulphonylureas with placebo or active drugs different from other sulphonylureas. The principal outcome was the effect of sulphonylureas on the incidence of any or severe hypoglycaemia. Cumulative incidence of hypoglycaemia was estimated combining sulphonylurea groups of different trials with a random effect model and used for meta‐regression analyses.

Results

The incidence of severe hypoglycaemia in patients treated with sulphonylureas was 1.2 [1.0–1.6]%. The overall risk of severe hypoglycaemia was increased more than threefold with sulphonylureas than with comparators. The proportion of patients with at least one hypoglycaemia while on sulphonylureas was 17.4 [14.5–20.8]%. The overall risk (Mantel–Haenszel Odds Ratio) of any hypoglycaemia with sulphonylureas versus comparators was 3.69 [3.47–3.93] (p < 0.001). Meta‐regression analysis suggested that the incidence of any hypoglycaemia was higher in trials enrolling patients with higher body mass index (BMI) and lower haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c).

Conclusions

In conclusion, hypoglycaemia, including severe hypoglycaemia, is frequent in patients treated with sulphonylureas, particularly when baseline HbA1c levels are lower and BMI levels higher. Further studies are needed to characterize predictors for the identification of patients at higher risk.
Paraneoplastic inflammation in myelodysplastic syndrome or bone marrow failure: case series with focus on 5‐azacytidine and literature review
Authors: Frietsch Jochen J. , Dornaus Sebastian , Neumann Thomas , Scholl Sebastian , Schmidt Volker , Kunert Christa , Sayer Herbert G. , Hochhaus Andreas , La Rosée Paul
Published: March 2014

Introduction

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) comprises a heterogeneous group of clonal disorders of haematopoietic stem cells, characterised by dysplastic haematopoiesis and dysregulated apoptosis resulting in various degrees of cytopenia, whereas canonical cytologic, cytogenetic and histopathologic findings guiding the diagnosis MDS are widely accepted, the MDS‐phenotype can be masked by coexisting/paraneoplastic immunologic disease. Autoimmune disorders have an estimated incidence of 10% among patients suffering from MDS and are causally related to increased morbidity and mortality, younger age at diagnosis and more complex genetics. Conversely, systemic inflammatory disorders may be an early manifestation of MDS, show good response to immunosuppressive therapy and frequently disappear during the course of specific haematologic therapy.

Objective

Monocentric report on clinical phenotypes found in MDS or bone marrow failure with paraneoplastic inflammatory disease.

Methods

Clinical case reports and systematic review about MDS pathophysiology and treatment.

Results

We report eight patients diagnosed with MDS or bone marrow failure, who presented with paraneoplastic autoimmune diseases. Six of eight patients were treated with the hypomethylating agent 5‐azacytidine, three of which achieved meaningful response with regard to inflammation control and haematologic recovery.

Conclusions

As paraneoplastic syndromes are often mistakenly diagnosed as idiopathic autoimmune disorders, we propose that coexistence of an underlying myelodysplastic syndrome should be considered early in the diagnostic work up. 5‐Azacytidine is effective in controlling paraneoplastic inflammation.
Risk of accidental injuries amongst Parkinson disease patients
Authors: Wang H.‐C. , Lin C.‐C. , Lau C.‐I. , Chang A. , Sung F.‐C. , Kao C.‐H.
Published: March 2014

Background and purpose

To investigate the spectrum and risks of accidental injuries (AIs) amongst Parkinson disease (PD) patients.

Methods

The participants comprised PD patients aged 50 years and older who were initially diagnosed between 2000 and 2009, and a comparison group of non‐PD patients. The incidence rates of accidental injury types amongst PD and non‐PD patients were calculated; hazard ratios were calculated and adjusted for comorbidities, using 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of developing such outcomes in PD patients.

Results

In total, 4046 PD patients and 16 184 non‐PD patients were followed over time. The PD patients demonstrated the following incidence rates and hazard ratios in comparison to the control cohort for accidental injuries: all injuries, 19.78 per 100 person‐years (100 PYs), adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 1.30 (95% CI 1.24–1.36); head injury, 2.95 per 100 PYs, HR 1.88 (95% CI 1.64–2.15); bone fracture and dislocation, 4.61 per 100 PYs, HR 1.39 (95% CI 1.25–1.54); burns, 0.66 per 100 PYs, HR 1.01 (95% CI 0.78–1.32); injury to spinal cord, plexus and nerves, 0.15 per 100 PYs, HR 1.25 (95% CI 0.72–2.17); superficial injuries and contusions, 11.41 per 100 PYs, HR 1.20 (95% CI 1.12–1.27). The injury risk for the 69–79 years age group in PD compared with controls of the same age (HR 1.38) was significantly higher compared with that of the 50–69 age groups in PD and controls (HR 1.16).

Conclusions

Parkinson disease patients demonstrate a significantly elevated risk of developing all accidental injury types except burn injuries and injuries to spinal cord, plexus and nerves, compared with age‐matched controls. The risk increases as age increases.
The influence of iron, siderophores and refractory DOM on cyanobacterial biomass in oligotrophic lakes
Authors: Sorichetti Ryan J. , Creed Irena F. , Trick Charles G.
Published: March 2014

Our conceptual understanding of factors that promote cyanobacterial growth is inadequate in the face of rising public concern about cyanobacterial blooms in oligotrophic freshwater lakes.

We hypothesised that cyanobacterial density would be highest in lakes with low levels of phosphorus (P), nitrogen (N), total dissolved iron (TDFe) and dissolved organic matter (DOM) with labile properties, where cyanobacteria use siderophores to scavenge Fe and overcome Fe limitation. We tested this hypothesis by measuring cyanobacterial density during peak biomass in 25 oligotrophic lakes representing gradients in total P (TP), nitrate, TDFe and DOM concentrations.

Total phytoplankton biomass, using chlorophyll‐a (chl‐a) as a proxy, was a function of TP (r2 = 0.83, P < 0.001). Cyanobacterial density was highest in lakes with low chl‐a, low TP, variable (low and high) nitrate and low TDFe. Regression tree analysis confirmed that TDFe, specifically low concentrations (<3.2 μg L−1), gave rise to the highest cyanobacterial densities in lakes.

All lakes had detectable concentrations of hydroxamate and/or catecholate siderophores. In lakes with relatively low TDFe (<3.2 μg L−1), cyanobacterial density was positively correlated with hydroxamate siderophore concentration (r2 = 0.77, P = 0.01). In lakes with higher TDFe (≥3.2 μg L−1), cyanobacterial density was positively correlated with nitrate (r2 = 0.84, P < 0.001) and ammonium (r2 = 0.75, P < 0.001) concentrations.

Dissolved organic matter may have an overriding control on cyanobacterial density, with cyanobacterial densities typically highest where DOM concentrations were low (<5 mg L−1) and with a humification index <5. These findings suggest that DOM with labile properties may allow cyanobacteria to gain access to Fe complexed with DOM and thus to overcome Fe limitation, while DOM with refractory properties may bind Fe tightly so that Fe is not readily bioavailable to cyanobacteria.

A new conceptual model is presented that emphasises the potential influence of DOM quantity and quality on the functioning of siderophores and the provision of a supply of Fe to cyanobacteria in lakes with low macronutrient supply.
Effects on river macroinvertebrate communities of tsunami propagation after the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake
Authors: Watanabe Kozo , Yaegashi Sakiko , Tomozawa Hiro , Koshimura Shunichi , Omura Tatsuo
Published: March 2014

The 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake generated extreme tsunami waves that entered river mouths, causing strong and long‐distance propagation along the water corridors. This study reports the first empirical survey of this rare and extreme ecological impact of tsunami propagation on river communities.

We sampled macroinvertebrate communities at 15 river sites on the Sendai Plain in Northeast Japan along a gradient of tsunami disturbance intensity [i.e. altitude: range = 1–29 m above sea level (a.s.l.)] two and 16 months after the earthquake. In comparison with data collected before the tsunami, we found evidence of significant reductions in taxon richness (−54% on average) and total abundance (−91%) after the tsunami in inundated river reaches (up to 25 km from the river mouth).

There were large spatial variations in local impacts, with altitudes of 7–9 m a.s.l. separating heavily damaged inundated communities from intact non‐inundated communities.

The degraded communities exhibited variable recovery rates extending beyond 16 months after the tsunami. Mobility trait analysis revealed a relatively rapid recovery of swimmers (e.g. Baetis), reflecting their high mobility and active drift behaviours in the recolonisation phase.

We observed the rare phenomenon of ‘upstream drift’ of marine worms (Phyllodocidae) to freshwater rivers in three of the 10 inundated sites. These survived in fresh water for up to 14 months, suggesting that some marine‐derived immigrants can persist in fresh water for extended periods.
Commensal symbiosis between agglutinated polychaetes and sulfate‐reducing bacteria
Authors: Guido A. , Mastandrea A. , Rosso A. , Sanfilippo R. , Tosti F. , Riding R. , Russo F.
Published: March 2014

Pendant bioconstructions occur within submerged caves in the Plemmirio Marine Protected Area in SE Sicily, Italy. These rigid structures, here termed biostalactites, were synsedimentarily lithified by clotted‐peloidal microbial carbonate that has a high bacterial lipid biomarker content with abundant compounds derived from sulfate‐reducing bacteria. The main framework builders are polychaete serpulid worms, mainly Protula with subordinate Semivermilia and Josephella. These polychaetes have lamellar and/or fibrillar wall structure. In contrast, small agglutinated terebellid tubes, which are a minor component of the biostalactites, are discontinuous and irregular with a peloidal micritic microfabric. The peloids, formed by bacterial sulfate reduction, appear to have been utilized by terebellids to construct tubes in an environment where other particulate sediment is scarce. We suggest that the bacteria obtained food from the worms in the form of fecal material and/or from the decaying tissue of surrounding organisms and that the worms obtained peloidal micrite with which to construct their tubes, either as grains and/or as tube encompassing biofilm. Peloidal worm tubes have rarely been reported in the recent but closely resemble examples in the geological record that extend back at least to the early Carboniferous. This suggests a long‐lived commensal relationship between some polychaete worms and heterotrophic, especially sulfate‐reducing, bacteria.
Chemical composition and in vitro digestibility of Stylosanthes guianensis varieties
Authors: Li Mao , Zi Xuejuan , Zhou Hanlin , Hou Guanyu , Cai Yimin
Published: March 2014

We evaluated the nutritive value of 10 varieties of stylo (Stylosanthes guianensis) in Hainan province, China, based on chemical composition and in vitro dry matter digestibility. Chemical composition of the varieties averaged 10.5% crude protein, 2.6% ether extract, 47.4% neutral detergent fiber, 39.7% acid detergent fiber and 0.59% total tannins. In vitro dry matter digestibility averaged 61.4%. The Relative Feed Value quality standard of individual varieties was grade 2 or higher, with the highest values for ‘TPRC90028’ and ‘Reyan No. 2.’ The results show that the stylo varieties have suitable nutritive values for livestock in tropical regions of China.
Geophysical Investigation of Seepage Beneath an Earthen Dam
Authors: Ikard S.J. , Rittgers J. , Revil A. , Mooney M.A.
Published: March 2014

A hydrogeophysical survey is performed at small earthen dam that overlies a confined aquifer. The structure of the dam has not shown evidence of anomalous seepage internally or through the foundation prior to the survey. However, the surface topography is mounded in a localized zone 150 m downstream, and groundwater discharges from this zone periodically when the reservoir storage is maximum. We use self‐potential and electrical resistivity tomography surveys with seismic refraction tomography to (1) determine what underlying hydrogeologic factors, if any, have contributed to the successful long‐term operation of the dam without apparent indicators of anomalous seepage through its core and foundation; and (2) investigate the hydraulic connection between the reservoir and the seepage zone to determine whether there exists a potential for this success to be undermined. Geophysical data are informed by hydraulic and geotechnical borehole data. Seismic refraction tomography is performed to determine the geometry of the phreatic surface. The hydro‐stratigraphy is mapped with the resistivity data and groundwater flow patterns are determined with self‐potential data. A self‐potential model is constructed to represent a perpendicular profile extending out from the maximum cross‐section of the dam, and self‐potential data are inverted to recover the groundwater velocity field. The groundwater flow pattern through the aquifer is controlled by the bedrock topography and a preferential flow pathway exists beneath the dam. It corresponds to a sandy‐gravel layer connecting the reservoir to the downstream seepage zone.
Characterization of the Arginine Decarboxylase Gene (ORF HP0422, speA) Involved in Acid Tolerance in Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Valenzuela Manuel , Cáceres Aníbal , Almarza Oscar , Bravo Denisse , Soto Sarita , Cerda Oscar , Toledo Héctor
Published: March 2014

Background

Helicobacter pylori is a motile microaerophilic bacterium that colonizes the human stomach. H. pylori infection triggers gastric diseases, such as gastritis, peptic ulcer and gastric cancer. Stomach represents a barrier for microorganism colonization, particularly because of its high hydrochloric acid concentration. The main mechanism developed by H. pylori to maintain intracellular pH homeostasis in this environment is the urease activity. However, urease negative strains can be also isolated from clinical samples, suggesting that H. pylori presents other components involved in acid resistance.

Objective

Here, we present some evidence that the arginine decarboxylase gene (speA) in H. pylori could be involved in an acid adaptation mechanism similar to the one in Enterobacteriaceae, which is dependent on the presence of arginine.

Methods

Indeed, speA mRNA and protein expression are acutely induced by acid stress.

Results

Moreover, we showed that H. pylori uses arginine in an acid response mechanism required for its growth in acid conditions.

Conclusion

Altogether, these results provide novel information regarding the H. pylori physiology and acid response mechanism.
John Henry Newman, Infallibility, and the Development of Christian Doctrine
Authors: Long David P.
Published: March 2014

This essay charts the parallel growth of Newman's theory of doctrinal development, and infallibility within that doctrinal development, with its author's movement from a via media in Anglicanism to recognition of the truth in the Roman Church. This essay analyzes the theological need for a theory of doctrinal development, the failure of Newman's via media project, and his role as a creative theologian. Then this essay examines in detailed Newman's 1845 Essay on the Development of Christian Doctrine, looking specifically at the second section of the second chapter, ‘On the Probability of a Developing Authority in Christianity.’ The main body of the paper treats the expansion of the scope and feasibility of infallibility in Newman's 1845 Essay.
Early springs and breeding performance in two sympatric duck species with different migration strategies
Authors: Arzel Céline , Dessborn Lisa , Pöysä Hannu , Elmberg Johan , Nummi Petri , Sjöberg Kjell
Published: March 2014

The capacity of migratory species to adapt to climate change may depend on their migratory and reproductive strategies. For example, reproductive output is likely to be influenced by how well migration and nesting are timed to temporal patterns of food abundance, or by temperature variations during the brood rearing phase. Based on two decades (1988–2009) of waterfowl counts from a boreal catchment in southern Finland we assessed how variation in ice break‐up date affected nesting phenology and breeding success in two sympatric duck species, Mallard Anas platyrhynchos and Eurasian Teal Anas crecca. In Fennoscandia these species have similar breeding habitat requirements but differ in migration distance; Teal migrate roughly seven times as far as do Mallard. Annual ice break‐up date was used as a proxy of spring ‘earliness’ to test the potential effect of climate change on hatching timing and breeding performance. Both species were capable of adapting their nesting phenology, and bred earlier in years when spring was early. However, the interval from ice break‐up to hatching tended to be longer in early springs in both species, so that broods hatched relatively later than in late springs. Ice break‐up date did not appear to influence annual number of broods per pair or annual mean brood size in either species. Our study therefore does not suggest that breeding performance in Teal and Mallard is negatively affected by advancement of ice break‐up at the population level. However, both species showed a within‐season decline in brood size with increasing interval between ice break‐up and hatching. Our study therefore highlights a disparity between individuals in their capacity to adjust to ice break‐up date, late breeders having a lower breeding success than early breeders. We speculate that breeding success of both species may therefore decline should a consistent trend towards earlier springs occur.
Laser‐Induced Swelling of Borosilicate Glasses—An Analysis of Associated Microstructural Development
Authors: Cheng Shangcong , Logunov Stephan , Streltsov Alexander
Published: March 2014

Borosilicate glass swelling by laser irradiation is an unusual phenomenon. The height of raised hemisphere on the swelled glass surface can be approximately 10–15% of the 1–3 mm glass thickness. To understand the mechanism of glass swelling, the micro‐structural information of swelled glasses is essential. Several transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques, including bright field image (BFI), selected area electron diffraction (SAED), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) analysis, were used to find out the possible microstructure changes of the swelled glasses. Transition metal nanoparticles or alkali metal segregations as well as gas bubbles in the swelled glasses were identified. These observations suggest that reduction of glass components may provide oxygen to form bubbles, which can increase in size due to thermal effects of the laser radiation and lead to the glass swelling.
Nativelike expression in the speech of long‐residencyL2 users: A study of multiword structures inL2English,French andSpanish
Authors: Erman Britt , Denke Annika , Fant Lars , Forsberg Lundell Fanny
Published: March 2014

Nativelike expression inL2 speech is investigated by comparing quantity and distribution of different types of multiword structures (MWSs) in the speech of very advancedL2 speakers with native speakers. Swedish speakers ofL2English,L2French andL2Spanish (averageLORin theUK,France andChile 7–10 years) performing two oral tasks, a role play, and an online retelling task, are compared with matching native speakers, totalling 140,000 words. TheL2 groups were nativelike in their use ofMWSsas social routines in the role play. Collocations, the dominant category in the retelling task, were underrepresented in all threeL2 groups compared to the native groups. Furthermore, theEnglishNNSswere nativelike on more measurements ofMWSsthan theFrench andSpanishNNSs.
Impact of pulsed electric fields and post‐mortem vacuum ageing on beef longissimus thoracis muscles
Authors: Faridnia Farnaz , Bekhit Alaa El‐Din A. , Niven Brian , Oey Indrawati
Published: March 2014

The impact of pulsed electric field (PEF) processing (0.2–0.6 kV cm−1, 1–50 Hz, 20 μs) followed by vacuum ageing (1 and 3 days) on the quality traits of beef longissimus thoracis (LT) was assessed. The results show that pH, colour stability (L*, a* and R630/580 values) and cooking loss were unaffected by PEF treatments, whilst moisture content significantly (P < 0.05) decreased by 0.7–3.6%. No significant (P > 0.05) difference was found in shear force between PEF treated and untreated samples. However, the shear force values significantly reduced in response to ageing times regardless of the PEF treatments. After 3 days post‐treatment ageing, the shear force decreased by 20–22% compared to 1 day ageing for all samples. Furthermore, Cryo‐SEM results suggest that PEF treatments have led to more porous tissue structure leading to more water loss. Protein profile was unchanged by PEF treatments applied.
CD14+HLA‐DR low/− monocytes as indicator of disease aggressiveness in B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Khalifa K. A. , Badawy H. M. , Radwan W. M. , Shehata M. A. , Bassuoni M. A.
Published: March 2014

Introduction

This study aimed to assess the correlation between the percentage of CD14+ HLA‐DRlow/− immunosuppressive monocytes, plasma arginase 1 level, and disease aggressiveness in patients with B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma.

Methods

Forty‐two patients with B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma and 20 healthy volunteers were enrolled in this study. Peripheral blood CD14+ HLA‐DRlow/– monocytes were detected by Flow cytometry, and their correlation with disease relapse and refractoriness was analyzed.

Results

The percent of CD14+ HLA‐DRlow/− monocytes was significantly higher in the lymphoma patients than in the healthy controls (control, 9.3 ± 4%; lymphoma, 35.8 ± 20.2%; P < 0.0001), higher in stage III& IV than stage II (stage II, 26.48 ± 17%, n = 26; stage III & IV, 50.8 ± 15.4%, n = 16; P < 0.0001), more in diffuse large cell lymphoma than other pathology types and in relapsed/refractory patients than in patients who achieved remission during follow‐up (relapsed/refractory, n = 18, 45.7 ± 16.7%; remission, n = 16, 21.4 ± 16.2%; P < 0.0001). The arginase I level correlated with increased percent of CD14+ HLA‐DRlow/− monocytes (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Increased CD14+ monocytes with loss of HLA expression were seen in patients with higher stage disease, more aggressive pathology, and in relapse or refractoriness to treatment. Identifying therapeutic strategies to overcome the suppressive properties of these monocytes could be of value.
Clinical implications of clotting screens
Authors: Thorell S. E. , Nash M. J. , Thachil J.
Published: March 2014

Introduction

Coagulation screens are performed routinely in every hospital with the notion that an abnormal result will pick up low levels of coagulation factors and thus aid in determining patients' bleeding risk.

Methods

We analysed all the clotting factor assays performed for abnormal clotting screen in a tertiary hospital over a 1‐year period.

Results

Isolated prolongation of prothrombin time (PT) is extremely rarely clinically significant, and there is no correlation with degree of prolongation and factor VII deficiency. One‐third cases of isolated prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) were clinically insignificant, while in the rest, a factor deficiency which may be deemed as a potential risk for bleeding was noted. Prolonged PT and APTT in combination were noted in 38 cases, but in 29 of these patients all the measured clotting factors and fibrinogen were in the normal range.

Conclusion

Abnormal clotting screens may not always be associated with clinically significant decrease in coagulation factor.
On the Bicentenary in St. Petersburg of Jacob Bernoulli's Theorem
Authors: Seneta Eugene
Published: March 2014

We focus on the Bicentenary (1913) celebrations, organised in St. Petersburg, Russia, by the great probabilist, A. A. Markov, founder of the theory of Markov chains. This theory was stimulated by the need to demonstrate a Law of Large Numbers for sums of dependent random variables. Markov's work on the Law of Large Numbers originating in the celebrations was exposited and extended by S. N. Bernstein and, in English, by J. V. Uspensky, who had played an integral part in the St. Petersburg celebrations. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prevention of dental erosion of a sports drink by nano‐sized hydroxyapatite in situ study
Authors: Min Ji Hyun , Kwon Ho Keun , Kim Baek Il
Published: March 2014

Aim

To evaluate the inhibitory effects of the sports drink containing nano‐sized hydroxyapatite (nano‐HA) on dental erosion in situ.

Design

The study had a single‐blind, two‐treatment crossover design. The two treatment groups were a control group (CG; Powerade only) and an experimental group (EG; 0.25% wt/vol nano‐HA was added to Powerade). Ten subjects wore removable palatal appliances containing bovine enamel specimens. The appliances were immersed in each drink for 10 mins, 4 times a day for 10 days. The tooth surface microhardness (SMH) was tested, and the erosion depth and the morphology of the tooth surface were observed. The data were analysed by repeated measures anova and t‐test.

Results

Between the baseline and the 10th day, SMH was decreased by 80% in the specimens of the CG (P < 0.001), whereas there was only a 6% decrease in the SMH of the specimens in the EG. An erosion depth of 12.70 ± 4.66 μm and an irregular tooth surface were observed on the 10th day in the specimens of the CG. No dental erosions, however, was observed in the specimens of the EG.

Conclusions

The sports drink containing 0.25% nano‐HA was effective in preventing dental erosion in situ.
Depth of cure of sealants polymerized with high‐power light emitting diode curing lights
Authors: Kitchens Brandon , Wells Martha , Tantbirojn DARANEE , Versluis Antheunis
Published: March 2014

Objective

To determine whether recommended short curing times of three high‐power light emitting diode (LED) curing lights are sufficient to polymerize sealant materials.

Methods

Opaque‐unfilled sealant (Delton LC Opaque), opaque‐filled sealant (UltraSeal XT plus), and clear‐filled sealant (FluroShield) were light cured in a covered slot‐mold using the manufacturers' shortest recommended curing times with three high‐power LED lights (3‐s VALO, 5‐s Fusion, 10‐s Smartlite). A 40‐s cure with a quartz‐tungsten halogen (QTH) light was used as control. Vickers hardness was measured 24 h after curing at the sealant surface and through the depth (0.5 mm increments) (N = 10). Results were analyzed with two‐way anova (pair‐wise multiple comparisons, significance level 0.05).

Results

The high‐power LEDs did not cure the sealants as deep as the QTH. Delton LC Opaque showed the least depth of cure as hardness values beyond a depth of 0.5 mm were not measurable regardless of the curing light. Even for UltraSeal XT plus, when surface hardness was about the same with all lights, hardness decreased more rapidly with depth for the LEDs. FluroShield showed the slowest decline in hardness through the depth for all lights.

Conclusions

Manufacturers' recommendations for shortest possible curing time with high‐power LEDs were not sufficient for adequate polymerization of the tested sealants.
Health economic benefits of cyanoacrylate skin protectants in the management of superficial skin lesions
Authors: Woo Kevin Y.
Published: March 2014

Superficial skin damages, including stage II pressure ulcer, skin tears and moisture‐associated skin damages (MASDs) are common and constitute a significant disease burden to the health care system. A cost analysis was conducted by comparing a cyanoacrylate barrier film with routine care in the treatment of superficial skin damages in a chronic care facility. The analysis included 12 patients: four patients with stage II pressure ulcers, six with MASD and two with skin tears. Cost analysis was conducted comparing the cost of care 7 days before and 7 days after the acrylate barrier was used. The total cost took into consideration the time, products and supplies required to manage the skin problem.
Ultrasound in Renal Carcinoma: An Essential in Follow‐up
Authors: POPERT R. J. M. , VINNICOMBE J. , COPTCOAT M. J.
Published: March 2014

Summary— A total of 115 patients underwent radical nephrectomy for renal carcinoma in this hospital between 1983 and 1990. Follow‐up was available in 113 cases (mean 27 months, range 0–93). The overall actuarial survival was 66% at 2 years and 53% at 5 years. Fifty‐three patients have been followed up with annual abdominal ultrasound over the last 2 years.

Abnormal ultrasound scans were reported in 6 patients (11%) on follow‐up. Two had para‐aortic lymph node recurrence amenable to further surgery. One patient developed a metachronous tumour and a partial nephrectomy was carried out. Three patients had local recurrence not amenable to further surgery.

Ultrasound and computed tomography have found an invaluable place in the pre‐operative diagnosis and staging of renal carcinoma. Sixteen of 113 tumours were diagnosed by ultrasound or intravenous urography carried out for some other purpose; 8 were less than 5 cm in diameter and 12 were T category N0M0V0. The 2‐year survival rate in this group was 85% (mean 30 months, range 19–67).

We consider the routine follow‐up of renal carcinoma with clinical examination and annual chest X‐ray to be inadequate. The application of ultrasound in the follow‐up of these patients has provided a valuable adjunct to our clinical practice. It has allowed the prompt diagnosis of lymph node recurrence or metachronous tumour amenable to secondary surgery with the potential for improved survival in this group of patients. We consider this to be the logical extension of the value of ultrasound in the pre‐operative diagnosis of renal carcinoma.
Outcome of Secondary Open Surgical Procedure in Patients who Failed Primary Endopyelotomy
Authors: KAVOUSSI L. R. , ALBALA D. M. , CLAYMAN R.
Published: March 2014

Summary— Endopyelotomy is an effective method for treating pelviureteric junction (PUJ) obstruction; however, up to 28% of patients fail endoscopic treatment and require a secondary open surgical procedure. Six patients underwent secondary open surgical procedures following failed endopyelotomy for primary PUJ obstruction at this institution.

One patient had impaired renal function in the affected kidney prior to endopyelotomy and postoperative evaluation indicated further deterioration; nephrectomy was performed for chronic obstruction and pain. The remaining 5 patients underwent secondary open pyeloplasty. In 4 patients the operation was difficult and lengthy because of extensive periureteric fibrosis. Difficult dissection was associated with a repeat endoscopic attempt to repair the PUJ obstruction, urinoma formation or stent occlusion requiring intervention. A mean follow‐up of 1.7 years demonstrated no radiographic or clinical evidence of recurrent obstruction in the 5 patients undergoing secondary open pyeloplasty; all 6 patients are currently asymptomatic.
Familial Transitional Cell Carcinoma and the Lynch Syndrome II
Authors: GREENLAND J. E. , WESTON P. M. T. , WALLACE D. M. A.
Published: March 2014

Summary— A family is presented in which 4 male siblings developed transitional cell carcinoma (TCC). Four upper tract tumours occurred in 3 and in the fourth the tumour was intravesical. Two of these patients also had colorectal adenocarcinoma. There were 2 other relatives in the pedigree with large bowel cancer. It is suggested that this is an example of Lynch Syndrome II, a hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer with extracolonic cancer sites. The implications regarding the screening, surveillance and detection of possible carrier status in healthy relatives is discussed.
Comparison of the Effects of Prostanoids on Human Penile Circumflex Veins and Corpus Cavernosum Tissue
Authors: KIRKEBY H. J. , ANDERSSON K.‐E. , FORMAN A.
Published: March 2014

Summary— The mechanical effects of the prostaglandins PGE1, PGE2, PGF2α and PGI2 were investigated in human isolated penile circumflex veins (CV) and corpus cavernosum (CC) tissue. PGE1 did not affect resting tension, while the compound produced relaxation of both CC and CV preparations after precontraction with noradrenaline (NA) 3 × 10−6M. PGE2 produced contraction in CC and CV preparations. After precontraction with NA, however, relaxation was induced in both tissues. PGF2α induced contraction in CC and CV preparations, while no relaxant responses were seen in preparations precontracted with NA. PGI2 produced no mechanical effects in unstimulated CV preparations, whereas dose‐related contraction was induced in CC tissue strips. After precontraction with NA, PGI2 showed no effect in 2 of 6 CC preparations, while relaxation was seen in 4. In CV preparations precontracted with NA, PGI2 produced relaxation. Local synthesis of prostanoids may influence resting tension and modulate NA‐induced responses not only in human penile CC but also in CV smooth muscle.
Treatment of urethral stones by retrograde manipulation and extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy
Authors: EL‐SHERIF A.E. , PRASAD K.
Published: March 2014

Objective To assess the effect of retrograde manipulation and extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) as a monotherapy for urethral stones that are not associated with urethral strictures.

Patients and methods Between August 1993 and January 1995, 34 male patients (mean age 38.7 years, range 7–55) presented with urethral stones. No patient had a suggested or past history of urethral stricture. Lidocaine jelly (2%) was instilled and retained inside the urethra for 5 min. A 16 F urethral catheter was advanced gently to push the stone back to the urinary bladder. Twenty patients had ESWL of their stones in the bladder, using a Storz Modulith SL20, in the prone position. Tilting the patient about 15° towards the side with the stone minimized movement of the stone during fragmentation. In‐line co‐axial echography (3.5 MHz) and intermittent pulsed fluoroscopy were used to monitor stone fragmentation. In situ fragmentation of posterior urethral stones was not possible because localization was difficult and the treatment was painful. Thirteen patients had cysto‐urethroscopy and mechanical cystolitholapaxy under general anaesthesia.

Results Stones impacted in the posterior urethra in 31 (91%) patients and in the anterior urethra in three (9%) patients. Stones ranged in size from 7 to 25 mm. One patient expelled an anterior urethral stone after the instillation of 2% lidocaine jelly. The urethral stones were pushed back to the bladder without complication in the remaining 33 patients. All 20 patients except one had their stones fragmented by ESWL in one session. The mean number of shock waves was 3600 ± 1480 (range 1200–6000) and the generator voltage ranged between 5 kV (560 bar) to 8 kV (940 bar). No patient in the ESWL group required anaesthesia or analgesia. Thirteen patients had successful mechanical cystolitholapaxy with no complications.

Conclusion Both endoscopic lithotripsy and ESWL of urethral stones are safe and effective. However, transurethral lithotripsy requires general anaesthesia and carries a risk of bladder and urethral trauma. This study demonstrated that, in the absence of urethral stricture, urethral stones can be pushed back safely to the urinary bladder and fragmented effectively by ESWL. The success of the treatment depends on adequate anaesthesia of the urethra before inserting the urethral catheter. We propose that this new technique should be considered before resorting to endoscopic or surgical management of urethral stones, particularly in children.
Diuresis and voiding pattern in healthy schoolchildren
Authors: MATTSSON S. , LINDSTRÖM S.
Published: March 2014

Objective To analyse how differences in diuresis affect the normal pattern of micturition of healthy children.

Subjects and methods Two hundred and six healthy continent schoolchildren, aged 7–15 years, completed a frequency/volume chart for 24 h by recording the time and volume of each micturition. Several diuresis variables were calculated from these charts and compared with sex, age, oral fluid intake, functional bladder capacity, voiding intervals and volumes.

Results The weight‐corrected mean diuresis per 24 h varied 10‐fold between individuals, independently of recorded fluid intake. In the majority, the diuresis decreased during the night, but the opposite diurnal pattern occurred in 12% of the children. The individual night‐time diuresis was positively correlated with functional bladder capacity and the daytime diuresis was positively correlated with voiding frequency.

Conclusions The weight‐corrected diuresis varies many‐fold among healthy continent children. A substantial proportion has a reversed diurnal pattern with a larger diuresis during the night. The individual bladder size is adapted to accommodate their typical nightly urine production.
The IFS Annual Lecture: Economics of Education Research and Its Role in the Making of Education Policy
Authors: Machin Stephen
Published: March 2014

This paper is based on my 2013 IFS Annual Lecture and it explores the reasons for the substantial interest that economists currently have in education research. To do so, it sets the economics of education field in its historical context, and explores a number of reasons why the research area has grown by so much in recent years. The role of economic research in the making of education policy has also increased through time, for some of the same reasons, and this has played a significant part in the use of evidence‐based policy in a range of areas of education.
A Wealth Tax on the Rich to Bring Down Public Debt? Revenue and Distributional Effects of a Capital Levy in Germany
Authors: Bach Stefan , Beznoska Martin , Steiner Viktor
Published: March 2014

The idea of higher wealth taxes to finance the mounting public debt in the wake of the financial crisis is gaining ground in several OECD countries. We evaluate the revenue and distributional effects of a one‐time capital levy on personal net wealth that is currently on the political agenda in Germany. We use survey data from the German Socio‐Economic Panel (SOEP) and estimate the net wealth distribution at the very top, based on publicly‐available information about very rich Germans. Since net wealth is strongly concentrated, the capital levy could raise substantial revenue, even if relatively high personal allowances are granted. We also analyse the compliance and administrative costs of the capital levy.
Synthesis of LaOF:Eu3+ Nanoparticles with Strong Luminescence Enhanced by Organic Ligands
Authors: He Yunjuan , Chen Nan , Du Guoping
Published: March 2014

LaOF:Eu3+ nanoparticles were successfully prepared by annealing LaF3:Eu3+ nanocrytsals which were capped with SiO2 shell. The SiO2 shell effectively prohibited the growth of LaF3:Eu3+ nanocrystals during the annealing process, and it was etched off after annealing to obtain the LaOF:Eu3+ nanoparticles. The LaOF:Eu3+ nanoparticles had a size comparable to the original LaF3:Eu3+ nanoparticles. Inorganic–organic hybrid nanoparticles of LaF3:Eu3+ and LaOF:Eu3+ nanoparticles with thenoyltrifluoroacetone (TTA) ligands were prepared. Strong luminescence as a result of the energy transfer from the TTA organic ligands to the LaF3:Eu3+ and LaOF:Eu3+ nanoparticles was observed. The LaOF:Eu3+‐based hybrid nanoparticles exhibited stronger luminescence intensity and broader excitation spectral range than the LaF3:Eu3+‐based hybrid nanoparticles. Effect of the content of TTA ligands on the luminescence of the LaOF:Eu3+ nanoparticles was investigated in detail.
The Effect of La2O3 Addition on Sol–Gel Derived Mullitization
Authors: Mandić Vilko , Tkalčec Emilija , Kurajica Stanislav
Published: March 2014

Monophasic gel with stoichiometric 3Al2O3·2SiO2 composition and gels with 0.99, 1.96, and 2.91 mol% La2O3 added were sol–gel derived. The crystallization path, structure evolution, microstructure, and morphology of calcined premullite powders and sintered ceramic bodies have been investigated as a function of La2O3 content and sintering temperature. In addition to mullite, spinel phase at about 980°C, and α‐alumina at above 1000°C were determined; however, neither La2O3 nor La‐related compounds had crystallized. The La2O3 predominately incorporated into the glassy phase, enhanced with La2O3 level, which affected both mullite structure and composition, as confirmed by electron microscopy, Rietveld structure refinement, determination of unit cell parameters, electron microscopy, and achieved density of the sintered bodies. Increased thermal treatment changes the alumina/silica ratio in mullite (towards 3:2 below 1200°C, and toward 2:1 above), and decreases the mullite/amorphous ratio. Sintered dense ceramic bodies revealed a positive densification effect and increased sinterability as a result of the lanthanum‐induced increase in glassy phase.