bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxidative Stress and Mitochondrial Damage Precedes Gastric Mucosal Cell Death Induced by Ethanol Administration
Authors: Hirokawa M. , Miura S. , Yoshida H. , Kurose I. , Shigematsu T. , Hokari R. , Higuchi H. , Watanabe N. , Yokoyama Y. , Kimura H. , Kato S. , Ishii H.
Published: January 2019

Although it has been speculated that active oxdants and mitochondrial membrane damages play roles in ethanol‐induced gastric mucosal damages, its detail remains unknown. The present study was designed to investigate whether ethanol induces oxidative stress and mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) before cell death of gastric mucosal cells. Rat gastric mucosal cells (RGM‐1) were kept in serum‐free Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium before addition of various concentrations of ethanol. Nuclear morphological alternations and membrane barrier dysfunction of RGM‐1 cells were assessed by staining with Hoechst 33342 and propidium iodide, respectively. To assess the contribution of oxygen‐derived free radicals and intracellular glutathione, scavenger of hydrogen peroxide and the hydroxyl radical, N,N‐dimethylthiourea, glutathione precursor, N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine, and an inhibitor of alcohol dehydrogenase, 4‐methylpyrazole were added before treatment with ethanol. To investigate MPT, calcein and tetramethylrhodamine methyl ester were loaded before addition of ethanol, and the changes of fluorescence intensity were monitored using a laser scanning confocal microscope. Ethanol (>5% v/v) dose‐dependently increased the number of propidium iodide‐positive cells, suggesting a diminished barrier function of cell membrane. After addition of ethanol, mithochondria were filled quickly with calcein indicating MPT, which was accompanied by mitochondrial depolarization, as shown by loss of tetramethylrodamine methyl ester before cell death. Ethanol‐induced cell death was significantly attenuated by simultaneous incubation with either N,N‐dimethylthiourea or N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine, suggesting the importance of intracellular redox states in inducing cellular damage, whereas such change was not attenuated by 4‐methylpyrazole. Present results suggest that ethanol treatment induces intracellular oxidative stress and produces MPT and mitochondrial depolarization, which are preceding cell death in gastric mucosal cells. Intracellular antioxidants, such as glutathione, may have a significant protective action against ethanol in gastric mucosal cells.
Appearance of Myofibroblasts in the Gastric Mucosa after Ingestion of Ethanol and Lansoprazole with Reevaluation of the Mucoid Cap
Authors: Nakamura Masahiko , Akiba Yasutada , Oda Masaya , Ishii Hiromasa
Published: January 2019

The mucoid cap is important in the restitution of surface epithelial cells of the gastric mucosa. We conducted the present study to clarify the relationship of the mucoid cap and the myofibroblasts in the course of healing of the gastric mucosa with ethanol‐induced damage. The effect of lansoprazole on ulcer healing was also evaluated. Wistar strain male rats were administered ethanol (50%) by gastric intubation. Thirty minutes later, either an aqueous solution of lansoprazole (LPZ; 10 mg/100 g of body weight), or the same amount of physiological saline was administered by gastric intubation. Localization of the myofibroblasts was evaluated at 1, 3, and 12 hr after LPZ treatment, and compared with the number and localization of cells positive for rhodamine‐phalloidin. The concentration of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) was determined by ELISA. We observed PR 2D3‐immunoreactive cells in the lamina propria mucosae of the control fundus that were weakly positive or negative for rhodamine‐phalloidin. Erosive lesions reaching more than half of the whole gastric mucosal layer were induced 1 hr after ethanol ingestion. An abundance of PR 2D3 and rhodamine‐phalloidin double‐positive cells was present in the lamina propria mucosae just below the erosive lesion. The administration of LPZ brought about an increase in bFGF concentration, an acceleration of ulcer healing, and an increase in immunoreactivity to PR 2D3. In conclusion, LPZ strongly influenced the healing of gastric mucosal damage related to ethanol administration, possibly through an increase in the concentration of bFGF. The immunophenotype of the myofibroblasts changed to the muscle type during healing, suggesting an involvement of these cells in ulcer healing.
Long‐Term Alcohol Effects on Hepatic Phosphoglucomutase Activities in Relation to Posttranslational Modification of the Protein
Authors: Nomura Fumio , Miyake Masami , Noda Masatoshi , Itoga Sakae , Nakai Toshiaki
Published: January 2019

ADP‐ribosylation is a posttranslational protein modification catalyzed by two classes of enzymes: mono‐ADP‐ribosyttransferase and poly‐ADP‐ribose polymerases. We previously demonstrated that long‐term alcohol intake remarkably enhanced an endogenous ADP‐ribosylation of a 58 kDa protein in rat liver and also identified the 58 kDa protein as phosphoglucomutase (PGM). To assess biological significance of this phenomenon, we tested the effects of long‐term alcohol intake on PGM activities in connection with posttranslational modification of the protein. ADP‐ribosylation of PGM was mono‐ rather than poly‐ADP‐ribosylation. Also, nonenzymatic binding of ADP‐ribose was excluded. It was of note that ADP‐ribosylation of exogenous PGM was remarkably increased by adding rat liver plasma membranes, and that the extent of the increase was greater in alcohol‐fed rats than in pair‐fed controls. Furthermore, PGM activities were significantly increased after long‐term alcohol intake concomitant with increased ADP‐ribosyltransferase activities toward PGM. In view of the variety of roles of PGM in the liver, such as carbohydrate metabolism and Ca2+ homeostasis, it is tempting to speculate that increased ADP‐ribosylation of PGM may play a role in long‐term alcohol effects on hepatocytes.
Relationship between Glutathione and Polyamine Metabolism after Partial Hepatectomy in Alcohol‐Treated Rats
Authors: Tanaka Takashi , Yamashita Terumi , Goto Yasutaka , Kondo Kyoko , Monna Takeyuki , Nishiguchi Shuhei , Kuroki Tetsuo , Otani Shuzo
Published: January 2019

In a liver regeneration inhibiting model after partial hepatectomy in rats, we determined hepatic glutathione concentration and studied its relation with polyamine, an indicator of liver regeneration. Experiment 1: Male ODS rats and Wistar rats as control were maintained with vitamin C‐deficient diets for 2 weeks. In the alcohol group, 3 g/kg of ethanol was administered orally 1 hr before partial hepatectomy. Experiment 2: Wistar rats were divided into four groups, according to the presence or absence of alcohol and vitamin E (VE), and a 6‐week pair‐feeding was done. As for partial hepatectomy, about 70% of the total liver was excised. As a result, in experiment 1, hepatic glutathion levels were significantly decreased by acute alcohol administration in both ODS and Wistar rats, and its level of alcohol administration group of ODS rats was the lowest. Hepatic omithine decarboxylase activity and putrescine level 4 hr after partial hepatectomy showed almost a similar behavior, being the lowest in the alcohol administration group of ODS rats. In experiment 2, hepatic glutathione level showed no influence by chronic alcohol administration, but was the lowest in the VE‐deficient alcohol administration group. Hepatic ODC activity and putrescine level 4 hr after partial hepatectomy showed no influence by chronic alcohol administration, but was the lowest in the VE‐deficient alcohol administration group. These results clarified that intrahepatic glutathione levels before partial hepatectomy were decreased In the models in which hepatic ODC activities after surgery were suppressed.
Immunohistochemical Detection of 4‐Hydroxy‐2‐nonenal‐Modified‐Protein Adducts in Human Alcoholic Liver Diseases
Authors: Ohhira Motoyuki , Ohtake Takaaki , Matsumoto Akinori , Saito Hiroyuki , Ikuta Katsuya , Fujimoto Yoshinori , Ono Minoru , Toyokuni Shinya , Kohgo Yutaka
Published: January 2019

4‐Hydroxy‐2‐nonenal (HNE) is one of the major components of lipid peroxidation product and has been shown to react with proteins to form HNE‐protein adducts. HNE‐protein adducts are relatively stable and can be used as a marker of radical‐mediated cellular damage. We report herein the immunohistochemical analysis of HNE‐protein adducts in human alcoholic liver diseases using a specific monoclonal antibody HNEJ‐2. Cytoplasm of hepatocytes and bile duct epithelia was positively stained for HNE‐protein adducts, and the nucleus was negligibly stained. The immunohistochemical intensity of hepatocytes was classified into three groups: strong, moderate, and faint staining. Strong staining was found in 43% of alcoholic liver diseases and in 4% of viral liver diseases. Hepatocytes of alcoholic liver diseases contained a higher amount of HNE‐protein adducts than those of viral liver diseases, and the difference was statistically significant (p = 0.005; χ2 test). Semiquantitative analysis of the histological intensities of HNE‐protein adducts and iron indicated a significant positive correlation (p = 0.084; Spearman's rank correlation). The localization of HNE‐protein adducts and iron in hepatocytes appeared to be identical. These data suggested the correlation between HNE‐protein adducts and iron. Our results indicate that HNE‐protein adducts, a marker of oxidative stress‐induced damage, are increased in human alcoholic liver damage, and that hepatic siderosis may act on the production of free radicals.
Alcohol‐Related Problems in Taiwan with Particular Emphasis on Alcoholic Liver Diseases
Authors: Liu Jean-Dean , Leung Kam-Wah , Wang Chung-Kwai , Liao Li-Ying , Wang Chaur-Shine , Chen Pao-Huei , Chen Chiao-Chicy , Yeh Eng-Kung
Published: January 2019

Socioeconomic development has led to a progressive increase of alcohol consumption in Taiwan, with an accompanying increase in alcohol‐related psychiatric problems, traffic accidents, and liver disease. The prevalent rates of alcohol dependence for Han Chinese and Fomosan aborigines were 0.1% and 1%, respectively in 1950. The rate of alcohol dependence increased to 23% for aborigines in 1995. The number of cases of death and serious injuries due to alcohol‐related traffic accident has decreased, and the number of fatalities resulting from these accidents has decreased from third to eighth since the inception of a program of random traffic stops with alcohol breath test in 1997. Alcohol liver disease (ALD) was defined as daily alcohol consumption of 60 g, for a duration of longer than 5 years. We classified ALD patients into two groups: (1) those whose average daily consumption of alcohol exceeded 120 g for a duration longer than 15 years (group A); and (2) all other patients (group B). The case records of 33 cases of biopsy‐confirmed ALD were obtained for study. The average of daily alcohol consumption in these cases was 160 g. All but one of these patients were male, age ranged from 26 to 69 years, with an average of 43.1. Clinically, ill‐defined gastrointestinal symptoms were the most common presentation (61%), and hepatomegaly was the main physical sign (73%). The average mean corpuscular volume values of ALD and non‐ALD patients were 102.3 ± 10.94 and 94.5 ± 8.1, respectively (p < 0.01). The mean corpuscular volume values of group A and group B were 102.9 ± 9.7 vs. 96.5 ± 9.11 (p < 0.05). Result from serum SGOT/SGPT and γ‐glutamyltransferase/alkaline phosphatase for ALD and non‐ALD revealed statistically significant differences between these groups. Using the avidin‐biotin complex technique, tissue IgA deposition for ALD patients was found to be different from that of non‐ALD patients. Ten of 13 ALD patients vs. 2 of 13 non‐ALD patients had continuous‐form IgA deposition. Histologically, 45.5% of ALD patients had alcoholic cirrhosis, whereas alcoholic hepatitis was present in only 9.1% of patients. Overall, 88% of cases showed various severity of fatty metamorphosis.
Reduced Immunoreactivity of Type I Adenylyl Cyclase in the Postmortem Brains of Alcoholics
Authors: Hashimoto E. , Frölich L. , Ozawa H. , Saito T. , Maurer K. , Böning J. , Takahata N. , Riederer P.
Published: January 2019

Reduced adenylyl cyclase activity after chronic ethanol exposure has been reported. In this study, we investigated by immunoblotting whether quantitative changes of adenylyl cyclase isoforms (type I, type II, and type V/VI adenylyl cyclases) exist in membrane preparations of the temporal cortex obtained from six alcoholics and six age‐matched controls. The immunoreactivity of type I adenylyl cyclase decreased significantly in the temporal cortex of alcoholics when compared with controls (p < 0.05), whereas those of type II and type V/VI adenylyl cyclases showed no changes between the groups. These findings suggest that these isoform‐specific alterations in the adenylyl cyclase system may be involved in the pathophysiology of alcoholism.
High tolerance of repeated heatwaves in Australian native plants
Authors: French Kris , Jansens Isaac B. , Ashcroft Michael B. , Ecroyd Heath , Robinson Sharon A.
Published: January 2019

Heatwaves, with increases in day and night time temperatures, are predicted to increase in frequency. We investigated the response of forbs, shrubs, grasses and non‐grass monocotyledons from warm temperate environments in Australia to repeated heatwaves to determine if responses differed with growth form and whether the addition of hot night temperatures influenced the ability of species to grow and acclimate. Plants were subjected to 3, 3‐day heatwaves comprising either hot days and nights or hot days and cool nights, with control plants maintained under cool days and nights. All species were thermotolerant to repeated heatwaves, although two species showed lower biomass under heat treatments, indicating repeated heatwaves influenced function in some, but not all species. While there was evidence of photosynthetic damage in some species, these recovered by the end of the experiment. While grasses and one herb showed some evidence of photosystem acclimation, increases in the threshold temperatures for membrane breakdown only occurred in one shrub. Leaf sacrifice in grasses was significantly increased after repeated heatwaves suggesting that fuel loads in grass communities will increase in the future. These results indicate high resilience for these Australian native warm temperate plants although lower growth rates in some species after heatwaves may result in changes to community composition.
Hurdles in radiation planning for glioblastoma: Can delayed‐contrast enhanced computed tomography be a potential solution?
Authors: Kumar Narendra , Hanumanthappa Nikesh , Miriyala Raviteja , Vyas Sameer , Salunke Pravin , Oinam Arun S. , Yadav Budhi S. , Madan Renu , Dracham Chinnababu , Kapoor Rakesh
Published: January 2019

Objective

Conformal radiation is the standard of care in treatment of glioblastoma. Although co‐registration of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with early contrast enhanced computed tomography (CECT) is recommended for target delineation by consensus guidelines, ground realities in developing countries often result in availability of less‐than‐ideal MR sequences for treatment planning. Purpose of this study is to analyze the impact of incorporation of delayed‐CECT sequences for radiation planning in glioblastomas, as an adjunct or alternative to MRI.

Methods

Case records of all patients of glioblastoma treated at our center between 2011 and 2014 were retrospectively evaluated. Gross treatment volumes were delineated on T1 contrast MRI (m‐GTV), early CECT (e‐GTV) and delayed CECT (d‐GTV); volumetric comparisons were made using repeated measures analysis of variance and pair‐wise analysis.

Results

Although 96% of registered patients underwent postoperative MRI, only 38% of them had desirable sequences suitable for co‐registration. Median duration between acquisition of postoperative MRI and surgery was 45 days (range, 33–60), whereas that between MRI and treatment‐planning CT was 5 days (range, 1–10). Statistically significant differences (P < 0.0001) were obtained between mean volumes of e‐GTV (41.20cc), d‐GTV (58.09cc) and m‐GTV (60.52cc). Although the mean GTV increased by 46% between early CECT and MRI, the difference was only 4% between delayed CECT and MRI.

Conclusion

Delayed CECT is superior to early CECT for co‐registration with MRI for target delineation, especially when available MR sequences are less‐than‐ideal for treatment planning, and can be considered as the most appropriate adjunct as well as an alternative to MRI, compared to early CECT.
“Dished like a dinner” by the Victorians? The 1899 Seat of Government Compact and its Repercussions in the early Australian Commonwealth
Authors: Strangio Paul
Published: January 2019

At a “secret” conference in January‐February 1899, the premiers of the Australian colonies agreed on an amendment to the draft Commonwealth Constitution Bill to grant New South Wales the permanent seat of government in the Australian federation. One of the conditions placed on that concession, however, was that Melbourne would initially host the Commonwealth parliament. Spanning the decade from that agreement to the Commonwealth parliament's selection in 1908 of Canberra as the site for the permanent federal capital, this paper shows that the compact on the seat of government provoked powerful resentments in New South Wales and especially Sydney because of the political and material advantages it was seen to have conferred on Melbourne. While the paper argues that resentment was actuated by residual anti‐federal sentiment and regional chauvinism, it also suggests that hosting the legislature did promote Victoria's pre‐eminence in the early Commonwealth and had enduring effects on the nation. In doing so, it speaks to the shaping influence of place and distance in Australian history.
Maternal short‐term complications after planned cesarean delivery without medical indication: A registry‐based study
Authors: Otkjær Astrid M. , Jørgensen Henrik L. , Clausen Tine D. , Krebs Lone
Published: January 2019

Introduction

The aim of this study was to compare short‐term maternal outcomes in healthy primiparous women with uncomplicated pregnancies who delivered a singleton child at term by planned cesarean or planned vaginal delivery.

Material and methods

Nationwide population‐based cohort study of 145 821 low‐risk primiparous women with healthy singletons in cephalic position in Denmark, 2008‐2016. Data from the Medical Birth Register and the Danish National Patient Registry were linked and compared according to planned mode of delivery. Main outcome measures were major morbidity including maternal death, cardiac arrest, hysterectomy and thromboembolic disease. Minor maternal morbidity includes wound infection, postpartum fever, wound rupture and reoperation, bladder lesions, spinal headache and Ogilvie syndrome. Additionally, anal sphincter injuries were registered.

Results

The study included 141 782 planned vaginal deliveries and 4039 planned cesarean deliveries. Severe maternal complications occurred in fewer than 1/4000 in both categories. Women with planned cesarean had a slightly higher risk of wound infections (0.17% vs 0.07%; P = 0.04). There were no significant differences in the remaining minor and major outcomes. Women with planned vaginal delivery had a 4.97% risk of obstetric anal sphincter injuries.

Conclusions

For healthy primiparous women, both planned vaginal delivery and planned cesarean delivery are highly safe procedures when the short‐term maternal outcome is taken into account. Planned cesarean delivery is associated with a slightly increased risk of wound infection compared with planned vaginal delivery. Women with planned vaginal delivery had a 4.97% risk of obstetric anal sphincter injuries.
Silicone oil‐associated retinal light exposure under a surgical microscope
Authors: Yamada Kazuhisa , Kaneko Hiroki , Tsunekawa Taichi , Shimizu Hideyuki , Suzumura Ayana , Namba Rina , Takeuchi Jun , Kataoka Keiko , Takayama Kei , Inoue Makoto , Ito Yasuki , Terasaki Hiroko
Published: January 2019

Purpose

Based on the hypothesis that silicone oil (SO) with a higher refractive index than water induces unexpected vignetting effects during surgeries, we aimed to investigate the relationship between the volume of SO and light intensity using a surgical microscope.

Methods

Using a light‐sensitive paper and model eye filled with varying volumes (0%, 50%, 62.5%, 75%, 87.5% and 100%) of SO, the light intensity of intraocular lens (IOL) with various refractive powers (0, 10 and 20 dioptres) illuminated by a surgical microscope was measured.

Results

Light exposure density with 1.0% coaxial and oblique light was approximately 22‐fold higher than that with 0.1% coaxial and oblique light. Further, it was approximately 34‐fold higher in eyes with +20 D IOL than in those with no IOL. The density in eyes with 75% SO was the highest among all groups followed by that with 0% SO. Light exposure densities in the eyes with 75% and 0% SO were significantly higher than those with other volumes of SO. In SO‐filled eyes, a microscope set with only an oblique light and a filter successfully reduced light exposure.

Conclusion

Silicone oil‐related vision loss (SORVL) during SO removal surgeries might be due to increased light exposure on the macular retina caused by the SO‐associated vignetting effect. SORVL could be prevented by placing a filter in the microscope during SO removal surgeries.
The role of Tenascin‐C and Twist1 in gastric cancer: cancer progression and prognosis
Authors: Qi Wenbo , Yang Zhaoting , Li Haoyue , Cui Yan , Xuan Yanhua
Published: January 2019

The aim of the present study was to identify the relation between Tenascin‐C (TNC) and Twist1 and determine their clinical significance in gastric cancer (GC). We analyzed the expression of TNC and Twist1 in 159 GC samples and in 91 non‐tumor samples using immunohistochemistry. In this study, TNC expression in stromal fibroblasts of GC was remarkably higher than non‐tumor gastric lesions. The expression of TNC in GC stromal fibroblasts was significantly associated with pT stage, lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis. Twist1 expression in stromal fibroblasts of GC was remarkably higher than non‐tumor gastric lesions. Twist1 expression in the stromal fibroblasts of GC was associated with tumor size, lymph node metastasis, and clinical stage. Furthermore, TNC expression levels in GC stromal fibroblasts were positively associated with Twist1. The simultaneous expression of TNC and Twist1 was significantly higher in stromal fibroblasts of GC than in noncancerous tissues. The simultaneous expression of TNC and Twist1 in GC stromal fibroblasts was positively associated with tumor location, pT stage, lymph node metastasis and clinical stage. Moreover, patients with co‐expression of TNC and Twist1 had a poorer prognosis than either TNC or Twist1 positive in GC. Our study revealed that the simultaneous expression of TNC and Twist1 indicated the poorer prognosis of GC. Co‐targeting TNC and Twist1 confer significant clinical advantage, which offers a novel therapeutic target in GC.
Progress in the monitoring of direct oral anticoagulant therapy
Authors: Patel Jignesh P. , Byrne Rosalind A. , Patel Raj K. , Arya Roopen
Published: January 2019

The availability of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) has led to a paradigm shift in the field of anticoagulation, with DOACs increasingly being prescribed for patients in preference to vitamin K antagonists and low molecular weight heparin. Despite good experience with the use of these agents at fixed doses, there are clinical scenarios where monitoring is recommended. Data from phase III studies of the DOACs and small real‐world studies suggest a relationship between DOAC concentration and clinical events. The DOACs have differing impacts on the common tests of haemostasis and it is important that clinicians are familiar with the sensitivity of the reagents used in their laboratory to individual DOACs. The specific DOAC drug concentrations can be assayed in the laboratory, when required, to guide appropriate clinical decision‐making. Studies from the real world with sufficient numbers evaluating the association of DOAC concentrations with outcomes should be a research priority in order to understand if we could do better through dose individualisation.
‘Who Is It That Can Tell Me Who I Am?’ King Lear, The Last Laugh and the Consequences of an Inability to Mourn Loss
Authors: Robinson Ken
Published: January 2019

This paper offers a brief synopsis of Freud's ‘Mourning and melancholia’ in its context before proceeding to a discussion of two portrayals of the consequences of inability to mourn loss, of people, roles and ego‐ideals: King Lear and W.F. Murnau's film The Last Laugh (1924). These are tragedies of old age and retirement which depict their heroes struggling to come to terms with their loss of roles that have been so narcissistically invested that their identities have become coterminous with them. Both deny the reality of their plight and, therefore, cannot mourn. King Lear defends himself against the threat of melancholia but also uses this defence to further protect himself against descending into the nothingness of an inner black hole. He dies on a delusion. The protagonist of The Last Laugh succumbs to profound depression, dreams of a world of omnipotent plenitude, but must awaken to the reality of his bleak situation.
Mourning Bit by Bit
Authors: Humphreys Olivia
Published: January 2019

In this piece I describe the process of mourning my mother since her death in 2001, via my short animated documentary ‘Oneironauts – the Dream Travellers’ (2011) and my more recent experiences as the mother of a young baby. I consider my experience in the context of Freud's ‘Mourning and Melancholia’.
Inflammatory biomarkers in infective endocarditis: machine learning to predict mortality
Authors: Ris T , Teixeira-Carvalho A , Coelho R Matos Pinto , Brandao-de-Resende C , Gomes M Souza , Amaral L Rodrigues , Pinto P H Oliveira Murta , Santos L J Souza , Salles J Teixeira , Roos-Hesselink Jolien , Verkaik N , Ferrari T Cristina Abreu , Nunes M C Pereira
Published: January 2019

Infective endocarditis (IE) is the cardiac disease with the highest rates of mortality. New biomarkers that are able to identify patients at risk for death are required to improve patient management and outcome. This study aims to investigate if cytokines, chemokines and growth factors measured at IE diagnosis can predict mortality. Patients with definite IE, according to the Duke’s modified criteria, were included. Using high-performance Luminex assay, 27 different cytokines, chemokines and growth factors were analyzed. Machine learning techniques were used for the prediction of death and subsequently creating a decision tree, in which the cytokines, chemokines and growth factors were analyzed together with C-reactive protein (CRP). Sixty-nine patients were included, 41 (59%) male, median age 54 [interquartile range (IQR) = 41–65 years] and median time between onset of the symptoms and diagnosis was 12 days (IQR = 5–30 days). The in-hospital mortality was 26% (n = 18). Proinflammatory cytokines interkeukin (IL)-15 and C-C motif chemokine ligand (CCL4) were found to predict death, adding value to CRP levels. The decision tree predicted correctly the outcome of 91% of the patients at hospital admission. The high-risk group, defined as CRP ≥ 72 mg/dL, IL-15 ≥ 5·6 fg/ml and CCL4 ≥ 6·35 fg/ml had an 88% in-hospital mortality rate, whereas the patients classified as low-risk had a mortality rate of 8% (P = < 0·001). Cytokines IL-15 and CCL4 were predictors of mortality in IE, adding prognostic value beyond that provided by CRP levels. Assessment of cytokines has potential value for clinical risk stratification and monitoring in IE patients.
Clinical and patient‐reported outcomes of implants placed in autogenous bone grafts and implants placed in native bone: A case–control study with a follow‐up of 5–16 years
Authors: Thoma Daniel S. , Maggetti Ivano , Waller Tobias , Hämmerle Christoph H. F. , Jung Ronald E.
Published: January 2019

Aims

To compare the radiographic marginal bone levels of implants placed in sites previously augmented with autogenous bone grafts and implants placed in native bone. Secondary outcomes included: implant survival, periodontal/peri‐implant parameters as well as short‐ and long‐term patient‐reported outcome measures.

Materials and methods

The study was designed as a case–control study including 38 patients equally distributed into two groups (previously augmented with autogenous bone blocks [AB] and implants placed in native bone [NB]). In total, 67 implants were placed. Clinical, radiographic and patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs), and complication rates were assessed based on a chart review and at a follow‐up examination (≧5 years after implant placement). Nonparametric mixed models were applied for the comparison of the two groups because of the clustered data. The data were analyzed descriptively, and p‐values were calculated using nonparametric mixed models to account for the clustered data.

Results

The mean follow‐up time was 10.2 years (range 6–13 years; AB) and 8.3 years (range 5–16 years; NB). One implant was lost in group NB (97.5% survival rate) and none in group AB (100%). Following primary augmentation, six major complications (wound dehiscences, acute pulpitis, intra‐ and extraoral sensitivity disturbances) were observed at the donor sites. At time of implant placement, only minimal complications occurred and only in group NB. Median marginal bone levels at the follow‐up were significantly higher in group NB (1.15; Q1: 0.50 mm/Q3: 1.83 mm) than in group AB (1.58; Q1: 1.01 mm/Q3: 2.40 mm; p = 0.0411). Probing depth, bleeding on probing and recession values were similar in both groups. PROMs revealed high visual analog scale values (i.e., high satisfaction) for both procedures.

Conclusions

Dental implants placed in sites augmented with autogenous bone or in native bone revealed healthy peri‐implant tissues after 5–16 years. Marginal bone levels were significantly higher for implant placed in native bone. Complications following primary augmentation encompassed every third patient but were mostly transient.
Anatomy of the Facial Fat Compartments and their Relevance in Aesthetic Surgery
Authors: Cotofana Sebastian , Lachman Nirusha
Published: January 2019

Objective

There has been a significant shift in the understanding of facial anatomy during the last decade. Newer minimally invasive therapeutic options for facial rejuvenation procedures are increasing the need for a better knowledge of anatomy.

Material and Methods

The current literature is summarized, analyzed and presented along with the experience of the author for this narrative review, which summarizes the current understanding of the superficial and deep facial fat compartments and their relevance for minimally invasive facial procedures. A schematic facial model was created in order to facilitate a better understanding of the complexity of facial anatomy.

Results

The face is arranged in five layers as follows: layer 1: skin; layer 2: subcutaneous fat including the retinacula cutis (composed of fibrous connective tissue); layer 3: superficial musculo‐aponeurotic system (SMAS); layer 4: deep fat; and layer 5: periosteum or deep fascia. This arrangement varies between facial regions, especially when the line of ligaments is incorporated into the model. The facial fat compartments are located in layers 2 and 4; each layer has unique characteristics and spatial relationships with the surrounding tissues.

Conclusions

The concept of the layered arrangement is a new way to understand the spatial relationship and functional interplay of the soft tissues of the face. Understanding the layers, the precise location of the superficial and deep facial fat compartments and their boundaries is crucial for the conduct of safe and effective minimally invasive facial procedures.
Optimal interpolation and isarithmic mapping of soil properties: I The semi‐variogram and punctual kriging
Authors: Burgess T. M. , Webster R.
Published: January 2019

Kriging is a means of spatial prediction that can be used for soil properties. It is a form of weighted local averaging. It is optimal in the sense that it provides estimates of values at unrecorded places without bias and with minimum and known variance. Isarithmic maps made by kriging are alternatives to conventional soil maps where properties can be measured at close spacings.

Kriging depends on first computing an accurate semi‐variogram, which measures the nature of spatial dependence for the property. Estimates of semi‐variance are then used to determine the weights applied to the data when computing the averages, and are presented in the kriging equations.

The method is applied to three sets of data from detailed soil surveys in Central Wales and Norfolk. Sodium content at Plas Gogerddan was shown to vary isotropically with a linear semi‐variogram. Ordinary punctual kriging produced a map with intricate isarithms and fairly large estimation variance, attributed to a large nugget effect. Stoniness on the same land varied anisotropically with a linear semi‐variogram, and again the estimation error of punctual kriging was fairly large. At Hole Farm, Norfolk, the thickness of cover loam varied isotropically, but with a spherical semi‐variogram. Its parameters were estimated and used to krige point values and produce a map showing substantial short‐range variation.
Motivation for Educational Attainment in Grade 9 Predicts High School Completion
Authors: West Stephen G. , Hughes Jan N. , Kim Han Joe , Bauer Shelby S.
Published: January 2019

The Motivation for Educational Attainment (MEA) questionnaire, developed to assess facets related to early adolescents’ motivation to complete high school, has a bifactor structure with a large general factor and three smaller orthogonal specific factors (teacher expectations, peer aspirations, value of education). This prospective validity study investigated the utility of each factor in predicting high school dropout or completion of a general education development (GED) certificate versus completion of a high school degree. Participants were 474 (55.1% male) ethnically diverse students who were originally recruited into a larger longitudinal study in Grade 1 on the basis of academic risk. Fourteen years later, 373 had obtained a high school diploma, 15 had obtained a GED, and 86 had dropped out of high school. During their first year of Grade 9, participants were administered the MEA. Using multinomial logistic regression with high school graduation as the reference outcome and controlling for Grade 9 letter grades, reading and math test scores, gender, and ethnic/racial group status, scores on the latent general factor and the latent peer aspirations factor predicted high school dropout versus high school graduation status. Neither the general factor nor any of the three specific factors predicted GED completion versus high school graduation. Ethnicity, but not gender, moderated the associations between scores on the general factor and high school graduation versus dropout.
An assessment of feral horse impacts on treeless drainage lines in the Australian Alps
Authors: Robertson Geoff , Wright John , Brown Daniel , Yuen Kally , Tongway David
Published: January 2019

The feral Horse (Equus caballus) is widespread across the Australian Alps. Feral horses degrade alpine and sub‐alpine ecosystems and damage habitat of a range of threatened species. Despite this, there is little published work to document the extent and severity of these impacts. This study investigated impacts of feral horses on treeless drainage lines at 186 sites across the Australian Alps. The study included sites in the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales and Victoria. We assessed nine variables related to soil and stream stability and vegetation cover, which in turn influence ecosystem function and habitat quality. We found significant differences among horse‐occupied and horse‐free sites for all soil and stream stability variables assessed. For all variables assessed, the average score (and hence, condition) was worse in horse‐occupied areas. The sites in poorest condition were occupied by horses. Impacts from other mammalian herbivores species appeared to be minor. Management intervention is necessary if these impacts of feral horses are to be addressed.
Placental extracts regulate melanin synthesis in normal human melanocytes with alterations of mitochondrial respiration
Authors: Yoshimoto Satoshi , Ohagi Yoshiaki , Yoshida Moemi , Yanagi Hiroki , Hibino Sawako , Ichihashi Masamitsu , Ando Hideya
Published: January 2019

Placental extracts have been widely used as skin lightening agents in the Japanese cosmetic market. Here, we show that placental extracts contain factors that can decrease or increase melanin synthesis by normal human melanocytes in vitro in possible association with mitochondrial respiration. When normal human melanocytes were treated with a whole porcine placental extract, melanin synthesis was decreased. In contrast, a porcine placental extract in which exudates and insoluble materials including lipids had been removed increased melanin synthesis. In addition, the amount of tyrosinase, the enzyme critical for melanin synthesis, changed in accordance with the alteration of melanin synthesis. Interestingly, the amount of manganese‐dependent superoxide dismutase (MnSOD), a mitochondrial‐resident antioxidant enzyme, was increased when melanin synthesis was decreased by the whole placental extract. Mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis also changed following treatment with the placental extracts. These results suggest that placental extracts contain factors that can increase or decrease melanin synthesis by normal human melanocytes and that mitochondrial function may be associated with the placental extract‐induced regulation of melanogenesis.
The beneficial role of functional food components in mitigating ultraviolet‐induced skin damage
Authors: Morifuji Masashi
Published: January 2019

Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation can chemically alter biological molecules and is one of the major environmental health risks with potential to damage the structure and function of the skin. Numerous dietary supplements are known to optimize the skin's defenses against radiation exposure. Several studies in which the beneficial roles of functional food components, that can protect against UV‐induced skin damage, have been demonstrated. Supplemental dietary sphingomyelin maintains covalently bound ω‐hydroxy ceramides to avert skin barrier defects after UVB irradiation. The oral administration of collagen hydrolysates has been shown to limit decreases in skin elasticity via increases in the dermal hyaluronic acid content. Milk fermented with lactic acid bacteria has been shown to augment DNA repair mechanisms and improve skin immunity in the aftermath of UVB damage. Furthermore, long‐term ingestion of fermented milk containing lactic acid bacteria, collagen hydrolysates and sphingomyelin increases the minimal erythema dose (MED) in human subjects with moderate sunburn or redness and tanned skin after exposure to UV solar radiation. Thus, products containing these functional food components are one means by which the adverse effects of UV radiation on the skin can be mitigated.
How stiff is skin?
Authors: Graham Helen K. , McConnell James C. , Limbert Georges , Sherratt Michael J.
Published: January 2019

The measurement of the mechanical properties of skin (such as stiffness, extensibility and strength) is a key step in characterisation of both dermal ageing and disease mechanisms and in the assessment of tissue‐engineered skin replacements. However, the biomechanical terminology and plethora of mathematical analysis approaches can be daunting to those outside the field. As a consequence, mechanical studies are often inaccessible to a significant proportion of the intended audience. Furthermore, devices for the measurement of skin function in vivo generate relative values rather than formal mechanical measures, therefore limiting the ability to compare studies. In this viewpoint essay, we discuss key biomechanical concepts and the influence of technical and biological factors (including the nature of the testing apparatus, length scale, donor age and anatomical site) on measured mechanical properties such as stiffness. Having discussed the current state‐of‐the‐art in macro‐mechanical and micromechanical measuring techniques and in mathematical and computational modelling methods, we then make suggestions as to how these approaches, in combination with 3D X‐ray imaging and mechanics methods, may be adopted into a single strategy to characterise the mechanical behaviour of skin.
Facial distribution of squamous cell carcinoma in Japanese
Authors: Kato Hiroshi , Oda Takao , Watanabe Shoichi , Morita Akimichi
Published: January 2019

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a malignant tumor of the skin. SCC is frequently distributed on highly exposed areas such as the face and dorsal surface of the hands because it is closely related to ultraviolet damage. We retrospectively analyzed 106 cases of SCC treated at Nagoya City University Hospital from April 2004 to October 2015 and examined regional features based on modified facial aesthetic units. SCC occurred more frequently on the cheek and forehead on the right side. The site of the tumor (nose and eyelid) was the only factor affecting tumor diameter.
Portfolio manager home‐country culture and mutual fund risk‐taking
Authors: Jiao Wei
Published: January 2019

I find that home‐country culture affects portfolio managers’ investment risk‐taking and performance. I focus on security value, which measures the degree to which people in a country assign importance to security, safety, and stability. Funds managed by managers from countries with higher security value exhibit lower fund return volatility, trade less frequently, and follow benchmarks more closely. These funds also tend to avoid lottery‐type stocks and hence perform significantly better. However, the impact of home‐country security value decays as managers spend more time away from their home countries.
Using acoustic telemetry and snorkel surveys to study diel activity and seasonal migration of round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) in an estuary of the Western Baltic Sea
Authors: Christoffersen Mads , Svendsen Jon C. , Behrens Jane W. , Jepsen Niels , van Deurs Mikael
Published: January 2019

In just two decades, round goby Neogobius melanostomus (Pallas) has dispersed throughout most of the Baltic and the North American Great Lakes. It thrives in shallow sheltered areas, where it is impacting native fauna. In Denmark, researchers, governmental institutions and fishers have joined in an effort to establish a sustainable round goby fishery. To do so, basic information about the movement of round goby is essential, so the movements of 50 round gobies were tracked using acoustic telemetry. The results revealed that activity took place mainly at night and seasonal migrations were common. The most frequent migration behaviour observed was a seaward return migration during winter, which was further confirmed by a snorkel survey. Tracking data also revealed riverine upstream dispersal. The results demonstrate that the round goby can be mapped using telemetry, and it is suggested that fishing for round goby may improve efficiency by targeting seasonal migration corridors.
Structural and functional responses of invertebrate communities to climate change and flow regulation in alpine catchments
Authors: Bruno Daniel , Belmar Oscar , Maire Anthony , Morel Adrien , Dumont Bernard , Datry Thibault
Published: January 2019

Understanding and predicting how biological communities respond to climate change is critical for assessing biodiversity vulnerability and guiding conservation efforts. Glacier‐ and snow‐fed rivers are one of the most sensitive ecosystems to climate change, and can provide early warning of wider‐scale changes. These rivers are frequently used for hydropower production but there is minimal understanding of how biological communities are influenced by climate change in a context of flow regulation. This study sheds light on this issue by disentangling structural (water temperature preference, taxonomic composition, alpha, beta and gamma diversities) and functional (functional traits, diversity, richness, evenness, dispersion and redundancy) effects of climate change in interaction with flow regulation in the Alps. For this, we compared environmental and aquatic invertebrate data collected in the 1970s and 2010s in regulated and unregulated alpine catchments. We hypothesized a replacement of cold‐adapted species by warming‐tolerant ones, high temporal and spatial turnover in taxa and trait composition, along with reduced taxonomic and functional diversities in consequence of climate change. We expected communities in regulated rivers to respond more drastically due to additive or synergistic effects between flow regulation and climate change. We found divergent structural but convergent functional responses between free‐flowing and regulated catchments. Although cold‐adapted taxa decreased in both of them, greater colonization and spread of thermophilic species was found in the free‐flowing one, resulting in higher spatial and temporal turnover. Since the 1970s, taxonomic diversity increased in the free flowing but decreased in the regulated catchment due to biotic homogenization. Colonization by taxa with new functional strategies (i.e. multivoltine taxa with small body size, resistance forms, aerial dispersion and reproduction by clutches) increased functional diversity but decreased functional redundancy through time. These functional changes could jeopardize the ability of aquatic communities facing intensification of ongoing climate change or new anthropogenic disturbances.
Association between subjective well‐being and presence of primary care dentists in community‐dwelling elderly people: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Mizutani Shinsuke , Aoki Hisae , Haresaku Satoru , Shimada Kaoru , Ueno Michio , Kubota Keiko , Naito Toru
Published: January 2019

Objective

The aim was to investigate the relationships between subjective well‐being and the existence of primary care dentists in community‐dwelling elderly people.

Background

Some studies have reported subjective well‐being focusing on oral health, but no studies have examined the relationship between subjective well‐being and primary care dentists.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study used data from community‐dwelling elderly people aged ≥70 years (n = 624). The Philadelphia Geriatric Center Morale Scale (PGCMS; range = 0 [low morale]‐17) was used to assess subjective well‐being. Additional information regarding age group, sex, medical consulting situation (ambulatory care/home care), primary care dentists, family structure, economic status, health status was collected via questionnaire.

Results

The average PGCMS score in ambulatory care patients (ACP) group who have primary care dentists was highest among community‐dwelling elderly people. In a logistic regression model, a low PGCMS score (0‐11) was independently correlated to 80‐89 age group (OR = 1.70; 95% CI, 1.13‐2.54; P = 0.008), ≥90 age group (OR = 3.86; 95% CI, 1.83‐8.18; P < 0.001), unsatisfied for economic status (OR = 2.68; 95% CI, 1.59‐4.53; P < 0.001), unsatisfied for health status (OR = 3.94; 95% CI, 2.60‐5.98; P < 0.001) and having no primary care dentists (OR = 1.81; 95% CI, 1.09‐3.01; P = 0.021) in ACP group.

Conclusions

The subjective well‐being of ACP who have primary care dentists was higher than in other people. Primary dentists contributed to the subjective well‐being of elderly people.