bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The LZIP: A Bayesian Latent Factor Model for Correlated Zero-Inflated Counts
Authors: Neelon Brian , Chung Dongjun
Published: July 2016

Motivated by a study of molecular differences among breast cancer patients, we develop a Bayesian latent factor zero-inflated Poisson (LZIP) model for the analysis of correlated zero-inflated counts. The responses are modeled as independent zero-inflated Poisson distributions conditional on a set of subject-specific latent factors. For each outcome, we express the LZIP model as a function of two discrete random variables: the first captures the propensity to be in an underlying “at-risk” state, while the second represents the count response conditional on being at risk. The latent factors and loadings are assigned conditionally conjugate gamma priors that accommodate overdispersion and dependence among the outcomes. For posterior computation, we propose an efficient data-augmentation algorithm that relies primarily on easily sampled Gibbs steps. We conduct simulation studies to investigate both the inferential properties of the model and the computational capabilities of the proposed sampling algorithm. We apply the method to an analysis of breast cancer genomics data from The Cancer Genome Atlas.
NCRI phase II study of CHOP in combination with ofatumumab in induction and maintenance in newly diagnosed Richter syndrome
Authors: Eyre Toby A. , Clifford Ruth , Bloor Adrian , Boyle Lucy , Roberts Corran , Cabes Maite , Collins Graham P. , Devereux Stephen , Follows George , Fox Christopher P. , Gribben John , Hillmen Peter , Hatton Chris S. , Littlewood Tim J. , McCarthy Helen , Murray Jim , Pettitt Andrew R. , Soilleux Elizabeth , Stamatopoulos Basile , Love Sharon B. , Wotherspoon Andrew , Schuh Anna
Published: July 2016

Richter syndrome (RS) is associated with chemotherapy resistance and a poor historical median overall survival (OS) of 8–10 months. We conducted a phase II trial of standard CHOP‐21 (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisolone every 21 d) with ofatumumab induction (Cycle 1: 300 mg day 1, 1000 mg day 8, 1000 mg day 15; Cycles 2–6: 1000 mg day 1) (CHOP‐O) followed by 12 months ofatumumab maintenance (1000 mg given 8‐weekly for up to six cycles). Forty‐three patients were recruited of whom 37 were evaluable. Seventy‐three per cent were aged >60 years. Over half of the patients received a fludarabine and cyclophosphamide‐based regimen as prior CLL treatment. The overall response rate was 46% (complete response 27%, partial response 19%) at six cycles. The median progression‐free survival was 6·2 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 4·9–14·0 months) and median OS was 11·4 months (95% CI 6·4–25·6 months). Treatment‐naïve and TP53‐intact patients had improved outcomes. Fifteen episodes of neutropenic fever and 46 non‐neutropenic infections were observed. There were no treatment‐related deaths. Seven patients received platinum‐containing salvage at progression, with only one patient obtaining an adequate response to proceed to allogeneic transplantation. CHOP‐O with ofatumumab maintenance provides minimal benefit beyond CHOP plus rutuximab. Standard immunochemotherapy for RS remains wholly inadequate for unselected RS. Multinational trials incorporating novel agents are urgently needed.
GBT440 increases haemoglobin oxygen affinity, reduces sickling and prolongs RBC half‐life in a murine model of sickle cell disease
Authors: Oksenberg Donna , Dufu Kobina , Patel Mira P. , Chuang Chihyuan , Li Zhe , Xu Qing , Silva‐Garcia Abel , Zhou Chengjing , Hutchaleelaha Athiwat , Patskovska Larysa , Patskovsky Yury , Almo Steven C. , Sinha Uma , Metcalf Brian W. , Archer David R.
Published: July 2016

A major driver of the pathophysiology of sickle cell disease (SCD) is polymerization of deoxygenated haemoglobin S (HbS), which leads to sickling and destruction of red blood cells (RBCs) and end‐organ damage. Pharmacologically increasing the proportion of oxygenated HbS in RBCs may inhibit polymerization, prevent sickling and provide long term disease modification. We report that GBT440, a small molecule which binds to the N‐terminal α chain of Hb, increases HbS affinity for oxygen, delays in vitro HbS polymerization and prevents sickling of RBCs. Moreover, in a murine model of SCD, GBT440 extends the half‐life of RBCs, reduces reticulocyte counts and prevents ex vivo RBC sickling. Importantly, oral dosing of GBT440 in animals demonstrates suitability for once daily dosing in humans and a highly selective partitioning into RBCs, which is a key therapeutic safety attribute. Thus, GBT440 has the potential for clinical use as a disease‐modifying agent in sickle cell patients.
The phenotype and clinical course of Japanese Fanconi Anaemia infants is influenced by patient, but not maternal ALDH2 genotype
Authors: Yabe Miharu , Yabe Hiromasa , Morimoto Tsuyoshi , Fukumura Akiko , Ohtsubo Keisuke , Koike Takashi , Yoshida Kenichi , Ogawa Seishi , Ito Etsuro , Okuno Yusuke , Muramatsu Hideki , Kojima Seiji , Matsuo Keitaro , Hira Asuka , Takata Minoru
Published: July 2016

Studies using Fanconi anaemia (FA) mutant mouse models suggested that the combination of a defective FA pathway and aldehyde dehydrogenase‐2 (ALDH2) dysfunction could provoke bone marrow failure, leukaemia and developmental defects, and that both maternal and fetal aldehyde detoxification are crucial to protect the developing embryo from DNA damage. We studied the ALDH2 genotypes of 35 Japanese FA patients and their mothers. We found that a normal maternal ALDH2 allele was not essential for fetal development of ALDH2‐deficient patients, and none of the post‐natal clinical parameters were clearly affected by the maternal ALDH2 genotype in these patients.
Risk factors predicting outcomes for primary refractory hodgkin lymphoma patients treated with salvage chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation
Authors: Shah Gunjan L. , Yahalom Joachim , Matasar Matthew J. , Verwys Stephanie L. , Goldman Debra A. , Bantilan Kurt S. , Zhang Zhigang , McCall Susan J. , Moskowitz Alison J. , Moskowitz Craig H.
Published: July 2016

We aimed to identify risk factors that predict functional imaging (FI) response to salvage chemotherapy and evaluate outcomes following autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) in primary refractory Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL). From 1 October 1994 to 10 July 2015, 192 primary refractory HL patients were treated on sequential second line protocols. Event‐free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) were calculated from the date of histological confirmation of refractory disease. Covariates were analysed for relationship with FI response and EFS. By intent‐to‐treat, the median EFS was 8·9 years and OS 10·4 years with 41% having positive post‐salvage FI. On multivariate analysis, the presence of B symptoms and bulk ≥5 cm predicted for positive FI, with odds ratios of 2·15 and 2·03, respectively. For the 167 (87%) transplanted patients, 60% had a negative pre‐ASCT FI. Median EFS and OS were not reached with at a median follow‐up of 3·6 years in surviving patients. Both stage IV refractory disease and persistent FI abnormality pre‐ ASCT were associated with worse outcomes: 3‐year EFS was 84%, 54% and 28% for zero, 1 and 2 risk factors, respectively (P < 0·001). Further studies are needed to validate our prognostic model and to determine optimal therapy for patients with multiple risk factors.
On the distribution of intranuclear and cytoplasmic aggregates in the brainstem of patients with spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 and 3
Authors: Seidel Kay , Siswanto Sonny , Fredrich Michaela , Bouzrou Mohamed , den Dunnen Wilfred F.A. , Özerden Inci , Korf Horst‐Werner , Melegh Bela , de Vries Jeroen J. , Brunt Ewout R. , Auburger Georg , Rüb Udo
Published: July 2016

The polyglutamine (polyQ) diseases are a group of genetically and clinically heterogeneous neurodegenerative diseases, characterized by the expansion of polyQ sequences in unrelated disease proteins, which form different types of neuronal aggregates. The aim of this study was to characterize the aggregation pathology in the brainstem of spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) and 3 (SCA3) patients. For good recognition of neurodegeneration and rare aggregates, we employed 100 µm PEG embedded brainstem sections, which were immunostained with the 1C2 antibody, targeted at polyQ expansions, or with an antibody against p62, a reliable marker of protein aggregates. Brainstem areas were scored semiquantitatively for neurodegeneration, severity of granular cytoplasmic staining (GCS) and frequency of neuronal nuclear inclusions (NNI). SCA2 and SCA3 tissue exhibited the same aggregate types and similar staining patterns. Several brainstem areas showed statistically significant differences between disease groups, whereby SCA2 showed more severe GCS and SCA3 showed more numerous NNI. We observed a positive correlation between GCS severity and neurodegeneration in SCA2 and SCA3 and an inverse correlation between the frequency of NNI and neurodegeneration in SCA3. Although their respective disease proteins are unrelated, SCA2 and SCA3 showed the same aggregate types. Apparently, the polyQ sequence alone is sufficient as a driver of protein aggregation. This is then modified by protein context and intrinsic properties of neuronal populations. The severity of GCS was the best predictor of neurodegeneration in both disorders, while the inverse correlation of neurodegeneration and NNI in SCA3 tissue implies a protective role of these aggregates.
Lateral approach for sinus floor elevation: large versus small bone window – a split‐mouth randomized clinical trial
Authors: Baldini Nicola , D'Elia Chiara , Bianco Andrea , Goracci Cecilia , de Sanctis Massimo , Ferrari Marco
Published: July 2016

Objectives

To test whether a reduction of bone window dimension, in a split‐mouth randomized study design, focused on lateral sinus floor elevations, can achieve better results than a wider window in terms of augmented bone height and a reduction of patient discomfort and surgical complications.

Materials and methods

Of the sixteen subjects enrolled in the study, each underwent a bilateral sinus lift procedure based on two different access flaps to maxillary sinus. Test side: small access window (6 × 6 mm) + bone filling using a special device. Control side: large access window (10 × 8 mm) + manual bone filling. Alveolar bone height and width were measured at pre‐op and 6‐month post‐op CT scans; repeatable measurements were obtained using radiographic stents. Surgical intervention duration was also recorded. Patients’ evaluation of surgical discomfort was assessed using a VAS diagram at 7‐day, 14‐day and 30‐day follow‐up.

Results

A significant bone augmentation in height and width of alveolar crest was obtained in both test (8.71 ± 1.11 mm, 4.70 ± 0.58 mm) and control (8.5 ± 2.02 mm, 4.68 ± 0.70 mm) sides, although no significant differences were found between the two groups. Neither any significant differences emerge in data concerning the duration of the intervention (Test 42.62 ± 6.67 min, Control 41.68 ± 8.34 min). Patients’ opinion relating to surgical discomfort showed a preference for test procedure at 7‐day, 14‐day and 30‐day follow‐up.

Conclusions

A reduction of window dimensions did not affect the safety of the surgical procedure. The two testing techniques showed no statistically significant differences in surgical intervention duration. Patients’ opinion at 7‐day and 14‐day post‐op showed a preference for test procedure.
Relationship Identification Across Heterogeneous Online Social Networks
Authors: He Jiangning , Liu Hongyan , Lau Raymond Y. K. , He Jun
Published: July 2016

In the era of the social web, many people manage their social relationships through various online social networking services. It has been found that identifying the types of social relationships among users in online social networks facilitates the marketing of products via electronic “word of mouth.” However, it is a great challenge to identify the types of social relationships, given very limited information in a social network. In this article, we study how to identify the types of relationships across multiple heterogeneous social networks and examine if combining certain information from different social networks can help improve the identification accuracy. The main contribution of our research is that we develop a novel decision tree initiated random walk model, which takes into account both global network structure and local user behavior to bootstrap the performance of relationship identification. Experiments conducted based on two real‐world social networks, Sina Weibo and Jiepang, demonstrate that the proposed model achieves an average accuracy of 92.0%, significantly outperforming other baseline methods. Our experiments also confirm the effectiveness of combining information from multiple social networks. Moreover, our results reveal that human mobility features indicating location categories, coincidence, and check‐in patterns are among the most discriminative features for relationship identification.
False‐Name Manipulation in Weighted Voting Games: Empirical and Theoretical Analysis
Authors: Lasisi Ramoni O. , Allan Vicki H.
Published: July 2016

Weighted voting games are important in multiagent systems because of their usage in automated decision making. However, they are not immune from the vulnerability of false‐name manipulation by strategic agents that may be present in the games. False‐name manipulation involves an agent splitting its weight among several false identities in anticipation of power increase. Previous works have considered false‐name manipulation using the well‐known Shapley–Shubik and Banzhaf power indices. Bounds on the extent of power that a manipulator may gain exist when it splits into k = 2 false identities for both the Shapley–Shubik and Banzhaf indices. The bounds when an agent splits into k > 2 false identities, until now, have remained open for the two indices. This article answers this open problem by providing four nontrivial bounds when an agent splits into k > 2 false identities for the two indices. Furthermore, we propose a new bound on the extent of power that a manipulator may gain when it splits into several false identities in a class of games referred to as excess unanimity weighted voting games. Finally, we complement our theoretical results with empirical evaluation. Results from our experiments confirm the existence of beneficial splits into several false identities for the two indices, and also establish that splitting into more than two false identities is qualitatively different than the previously known splitting into exactly two false identities.
Bursaphelenchus tusciae in Tunisia associated with Hylurgus ligniperda
Authors: Mejri M. , Fonseca L. , Cardoso J. M. S. , Ben Jamâa M. L. , Abrantes I.
Published: July 2016

Bursaphelenchus tusciae is reported for the first time in Tunisia and North Africa, associated with the insect Hylurgus ligniperda Fabricius (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae). Nematode identification was based on restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis and sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of ribosomal DNA. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that Tunisian B. tusciae clusters together with two other B. tusciae isolates forming a separate group close to B. hildegardae and B. eggersi. As H. ligniperda is among maritime pine scolytids pests in Tunisia and is widely distributed in North Africa, this study is an important contribution to the knowledge of Bursaphelenchus species associated with bark beetles of pine forests in Tunisia and North Africa.
Vegetation change and conservation status of Coastal Upland Swamps
Authors: Mason Tanya J. , Keith David A.
Published: July 2016

Coastal Upland Swamp communities are characterized by high biodiversity and provide habitat for a range of threatened flora and fauna. In this research project, we are monitoring swamp vegetation dynamics over decadal timescales and relating observed changes to environmental factors. We have also modelled potential effects of climate change on swamp distributions. We found that swamp communities are spatially dynamic, both internally and in relation to the woodland matrix. Transitions between communities depended on initial states. In addition, these water‐dependent communities appeared highly sensitive to projected climate change and their ‘Endangered’ status makes their active management a high priority. Improved understanding of dynamics at the community and landscape scale facilitates horizon scanning and improves our capacity to plan effective management interventions now and under future management and climate change scenarios.
Availability of short microsatellite markers from butterfly museums and private specimens
Authors: Nakahama Naoyuki , Isagi Yuji
Published: July 2016

Knowledge of the temporal changes in genetic diversity and structure is important for identifying factors causing a decline in threatened insect species, and for establishing conservation programs for these species. Thus, there is recently an increasing interest in the restoration of genetic diversity in conservation programs using DNA data from historical museum specimens. For butterfly specimens, we measured the yields and fragment sizes of the extracted DNA and investigated the genotyping success probability of nine short microsatellite markers (allele size 73–191 bp). We used leg samples of specimens of a medium‐sized butterfly species, Melitaea ambigua (Lepidoptera; Nymphalidae), collected from the 1960s to the 2010s. The yields of specimen‐extracted DNA longer than 150 bp decreased with increasing specimen age. There were negative correlations between the genotyping success probability and specimen age for each of all microsatellite markers. A negative correlation was also observed between the genotyping success probability and allele size of each microsatellite marker. We conclude that short microsatellite markers and analysis of recently obtained specimens are particularly suitable for microsatellite analysis of butterfly specimens.
Anticonvulsant effect of a ghrelin receptor agonist in 6Hz corneally kindled mice
Authors: Coppens Jessica , Aourz Najat , Walrave Laura , Fehrentz Jean‐Alain , Martinez Jean , De Bundel Dimitri , Portelli Jeanelle , Smolders Ilse
Published: July 2016

Ghrelin has anticonvulsant and neuroprotective effects in models of chemoconvulsant‐induced seizures and status epilepticus. In this study we investigated whether deletion of the ghrelin receptor could alter the kindling process in the 6 Hz corneal kindling model and whether ghrelin receptor ligands possess anticonvulsant effects in fully kindled mice. Ghrelin receptor wild‐type and knockout mice were electrically stimulated at a subconvulsive current twice daily via corneal electrodes until they reached the fully kindled state. Mice lacking the ghrelin receptor showed similar seizure severity during kindling acquisition as well as in the maintenance phase when compared to their wild‐type littermates. Subsequently we proceeded by investigating possible anticonvulsant effects of the ghrelin receptor ligands in the acute 6 Hz seizure model and the fully 6 Hz kindled mice. The ghrelin receptor agonist JMV‐1843 decreased the seizure severity score both in acutely 6 Hz stimulated mice and in fully kindled ghrelin receptor wild‐type mice, but not in fully kindled ghrelin receptor knockout mice. No effect on seizure severity was observed following the ghrelin receptor antagonist JMV‐2959 in both models. This finding indicates that JMV‐1843 exerts an anticonvulsant effect in kindled mice via the ghrelin receptor.
Compound‐Specific Isotope Analyses to Assess TCE Biodegradation in a Fractured Dolomitic Aquifer
Authors: Clark Justin A. , Stotler Randy L. , Frape Shaun K. , Illman Walter A.
Published: July 2016

The potential for trichloroethene (TCE) biodegradation in a fractured dolomite aquifer at a former chemical disposal site in Smithville, Ontario, Canada, is assessed using chemical analysis and TCE and cis‐DCE compound‐specific isotope analysis of carbon and chlorine collected over a 16‐month period. Groundwater redox conditions change from suboxic to much more reducing environments within and around the plume, indicating that oxidation of organic contaminants and degradation products is occurring at the study site. TCE and cis‐DCE were observed in 13 of 14 wells sampled. VC, ethene, and/or ethane were also observed in ten wells, indicating that partial/full dechlorination has occurred. Chlorine isotopic values (δ37Cl) range between 1.39 to 4.69‰ SMOC for TCE, and 3.57 to 13.86‰ SMOC for cis‐DCE. Carbon isotopic values range between −28.9 and −20.7‰ VPDB for TCE, and −26.5 and −11.8‰ VPDB for cis‐DCE. In most wells, isotopic values remained steady over the 15‐month study. Isotopic enrichment from TCE to cis‐DCE varied between 0 and 13‰ for carbon and 1 and 4‰ for chlorine. Calculated chlorine‐carbon isotopic enrichment ratios (ϵCl/ϵC) were 0.18 for TCE and 0.69 for cis‐DCE. Combined, isotopic and chemical data indicate very little dechlorination is occurring near the source zone, but suggest bacterially mediated degradation is occurring closer to the edges of the plume.
Chitotriosidase as a novel biomarker of early atherosclerosis in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Güçlü Aydın , Yilmaz Mahmut Ilker , Tokmak Turgut Tursem , Unal Hilmi Umut , Karaman Murat , Gezer Mustafa , Taş Ahmet , Aydin İbrahim , Akçılar Raziye , Dursun Yusuf
Published: July 2016

Introduction: Increasing evidence suggests that inflammation and increased macrophage activity have a central role in pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. It is shown that chitotriosidase (CHIT‐1) is a marker of macrophage activity in atherosclerotic plaque, and is found associated with severity of atherosclerotic lesion. There is no data about CHIT‐1 activity of hemodialysis patients in the literature. Thus, we hypothesized that in hemodialysis patients, CHIT‐1 levels might be a novel biomarker in early atherosclerosis. Methods: Forty‐five hemodialysis patients were included in the study (age: 61.93 ± 13.34). Intima media thickness (IMT) was evaluated with high‐resolution B‐mode ultrasonography. Biomarker levels were measured in serum of patients. Findings: We found positive correlation among IMT, age (R: 0.426, P: 0.004) and, CHIT‐1 value (R: 0.462, P: 0.001) in spearman correlation analysis. When age, CRP, creatinine, P, Alb, CHIT‐1 were chosen as measures that can effect IMT in multiple regression model, IMT level was related with CHIT‐1 (Beta: 0,396, P: 0.012) and age (Beta: 0,313 P: 0,048) independently. Discussion: In conclusion, this is the first report showing that serum CHIT‐1 level was related independently with carotid IMT in hemodialysis patients. This biomarker might have an unknown role in the development of atherosclerosis during uremia.
Planimetry of the porta hepatis in biliary atresia
Authors: Shalaby Aly , Hajhosseiny Reza , Zen Yoh , Davenport Mark , Quaglia Alberto
Published: July 2016

Aims

Orientation and digital analysis of the biliary remnants in the resected porta hepatis in infants with biliary atresia.

Methods and results

Samples were orientated intra‐operatively then stained with haematoxylin and eosin and immunostained for cytokeratin 7 (CK7). Sections were then digitized and analysed. Most proximal transected surface area was defined as the porta hepatis area (PHA) and the biliary epithelial area was defined as ‘BEA’. Data are quoted as median (range). Non‐parametric statistical comparisons were made as appropriate. P < 0.05 was regarded as significant. Thirty‐eight infants underwent surgery [median age 53 (16–120) days]. Eight specimens were excluded from the study due to technical reasons, leaving 30 specimens as the study cohort. Median PHA was 70 (30–133) mm2, median BEA 0.57 (0.07–5.5) mm2 (r = 0.51; P < 0.002). The median BEA/PHA ratio was 9.6 × 10−3 (1.9–104 × 10−3). There was a marked correlation of PHA with plasma γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase (r = −0.51; P = 0.001). Both total BEA and the BEA/PHA ratio correlated with alkaline phosphatase (r = −0.35; P = 0.03 and r = −0.47; P = 0.005, respectively). Age at surgery correlated inversely with BEA (r = −0.44; P = 0.01) but not PHA (P = 0.1).

Conclusions

Precise quantification of biliary remnants is possible and correlates with biochemical variables. Values for BEA were associated with and declined demonstrably with increasing age at surgery.
Steatotic hepatocellular carcinoma: a variant associated with metabolic factors and late tumour relapse
Authors: Chan Anthony W H , Yu Shuangni , Yu Yau‐Hei , Tong Joanna H M , Wang Lei , Tin Edith K Y , Chong Charing C N , Chan Stephen L , Wong Grace L H , Wong Vincent W S , Chan Henry L Y , Lai Paul B S , To Ka‐Fai
Published: July 2016

Aims

Steatosis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been recognized for decades and found most commonly in small, well‐differentiated HCC. However, the clinicopathological features and pathogenesis of HCC with steatosis is not well characterized. There are few data concerning whether HCC with steatosis should be regarded a distinct histological variant, steatotic HCC.

Methods and results

A retrospective cohort of 516 patients undergoing curative surgery for primary HCC was recruited. The median follow‐up was 45.5 (range: 0.2–166.0) months. Steatotic HCC was defined as HCC with significant steatosis (≥5% of tumour cells). Associations with immunohistochemical expression of fatty acid binding protein‐1 (FABP1), sonic hedgehog (SHH) and gene polymorphism of patatin‐like phospholipase 3 (PNPLA3) were analysed. Steatotic HCC was found in 21.1% of patients and was associated with higher metabolic risks [diabetes mellitus (36.7% versus 18.2%) and hypertension (44.0% versus 28.7%)], underlying fatty liver (60.6% versus 37.8%), steatohepatitis (30.3% versus 13.0%), smaller tumour size, lower frequency of major vessel (1.8% versus 11.3%) and microvascular invasion (20.2% versus 32.4%), earlier tumour stages and lower serum alpha‐fetoprotein. It was associated with developing late tumour relapse (hazard ratio 2.15, P = 0.002) independently of underlying cirrhosis and non‐anatomical excision. Steatotic HCC did not differ from HCC without significant steatosis in immunohistochemical expression of FABP1 and SHH and PNPLA3 gene polymorphism.

Conclusion

Steatotic HCC is a common histological variant of HCC with distinct association with underlying fatty liver, steatohepatitis and metabolic risks. Despite more favourable baseline tumour features, it was associated with late tumour relapse.
Intravascular (blood vessel) histiocytosis with haemophagocytosis
Authors: Fernández‐Figueras M Teresa , Martín‐Urdà M Teresa , Plana Adrià , Servitje Octavi , Penin Rosa M , Tapia Gustavo , Mate José L , Ariza Aurelio
Published: July 2016

Aims

Many types of intravascular lymphohistiocytic proliferation have been described recently; this was previously an unnoticed or misinterpreted phenomenon. Intralymphatic lymphohistiocytic aggregates are relatively common, and include benign, malignant and indeterminate conditions. In contrast, all non‐endothelial proliferations in the lumina of blood vessels have been interpreted so far as malignant. Herein, we present three cases of histiocytic proliferations in the lumen of blood vessels associated with intracytoplasmic granulocyte debris (haemophagocytosis), a previously undescribed entity.

Methods and results

We identified three patients from two institutions with similar cutaneous lesions, both clinically and microscopically. Information regarding clinical history, histological features and immunoprofiles were obtained. The three cases presented intravascular histiocytosis with haemophagocytosis involving blood vessels of the dermis, a process that may be representative of a new entity. The patients were two women and one man who presented a symmetrical reticulated erythema with a tendency to involve the skin of the breasts. The lesions were indolent, did not ulcerate and followed a benign course.

Conclusion

This seemingly novel condition is characterized by the presence of histiocytic cells inside blood vessels, where they have not been described previously as an entity. The most reasonable explanation for this process is an origin from the non‐classical subset of monocytes that ‘patrol’ the inner face of blood vessels acting as macrophages. The existence of this entity should be kept in mind to avoid overdiagnosis of malignancy.
New approaches in tail‐bleeding assay in mice: improving an important method for designing new anti‐thrombotic agents
Authors: Saito Max Seidy , Lourenço André Luiz , Kang Hye Chung , Rodrigues Carlos Rangel , Cabral Lucio Mendes , Castro Helena Carla , Satlher Plínio Cunha
Published: July 2016

This report describes a modified, simple, low‐cost and more sensitive method to determine bleeding patterns and haemoglobin concentration in a tail‐bleeding assay using BALB/c mice and tail tip amputation. The cut tail was immersed in Drabkin's reagent to promote erythrocyte lysis and haemoglobin release, which was monitored over 30 min. The operator was blinded to individual conditions of the mice, which were treated with either saline (NaCl 0.15m), DMSO (0.5%) or clinical anti‐thrombotic drugs. Our experimental protocols showed good reproducibility and repeatability of results when using Drabkin's reagent than water. Thus, the use of Drabkin's reagent offered a simple and low‐cost method to observe and quantify the bleeding and rebleeding episodes. We also observed the bleeding pattern and total haemoglobin loss using untreated animals or those under anti‐coagulant therapy in order to validate the new Drabkin method and thus confirm that it is a useful protocol to quantify haemoglobin concentrations in tail‐bleeding assay. This modified method provided a more accurate results for bleeding patterns in mice and for identifying new anti‐thrombotic drugs.
The Direct and the Converse Magnetoelectric Effect in Multiferroic Cobalt Ferrite–Barium Titanate Ceramic Composites
Authors: Etier Morad , Shvartsman Vladimir V. , Salamon Soma , Gao Yanling , Wende Heiko , Lupascu Doru C.
Published: July 2016

We report on a systematic study of the magnetoelectric effect in cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4)—barium titanate (BaTiO3) ceramic composites with (0‐3) connectivity. Both the converse magnetoelectric coefficient, αC, and the direct voltage magnetoelectric coefficient, αE, were measured in dependence on composition and electric and magnetic bias fields. The strongest ME effect was observed in the composition (1−x) CoFe2O4–xBaTiO3 with x = 0.5 yielding values αC = 25 psm−1 and αE = 3.2 mV/(cm·Oe). We show that the proper conversion between these two coefficients demands knowledge about the dielectric permittivity of the sample. For low BaTiO3 content the dielectric coefficient of the composite yields a better correspondence, whereas for high BaTiO3 content the sample's average dielectric coefficient yields a better match. The influence of mutual orientation of polarization and magnetization on the ME effect is addressed. We found that for measurements performed parallel to the polarization direction (longitudinal effect), the ME coefficient is approximately twice as large and of opposite sign in comparison to the measurements perpendicular to the polarization direction (transverse effect). This difference has been rationalized in terms of the different contributions of the material coefficient tensor components to the ME effect, the demagnetizing factor, and losses. The obtained results provide a better understanding of peculiarities of the ME effect in bulk ceramic composites.
Grief and loss in older people residing in nursing homes: (un)detected by nurses and care‐assistants?
Authors: Van Humbeeck Liesbeth , Dillen Let , Piers Ruth , Van Den Noortgate Nele
Published: July 2016

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore how nurses and care‐assistants (nursing staff) working in six Flemish nursing homes experience and describe their involvement in grief care.

Background

Although grief in older people is widely described in literature, less is known about how nursing staff in nursing homes offer and perceive grief care.

Design

A qualitative research design with elements of constructivist grounded theory was used.

Methods

Loosely structured face‐to‐face interviews were done with fourteen nurses and care‐assistants. Data were collected from October 2013–March 2014. Interview transcripts were analysed using the Qualitative Analysis Guide of Leuven (QUAGOL) method with support of NVivo 10.

Findings

Grief care in nursing homes is characterized by a complex tension between two care dimensions: (1) being involved while keeping an appropriate distance; and (2) being while doing. Nursing staff described key enablers and influencing factors for grief care at the level of both the individual and the organizational context.

Conclusion

Findings suggest an established personal sensitivity for grief care considered from the nursing staff points of view. Nevertheless, a common denominator was the necessity to further develop a supportive and multidisciplinary grief care policy ingrained in the existing care culture. Suggested components of this grief care policy are: (a) centring attention on non‐death‐related loss and the cumulative nature of loss in residents; (b) building capacity by means of reflective practices; and (c) the importance of self‐care strategies for nursing staff. Furthermore, the findings from this study point towards a need for education and training.
Renin‐Angiotensin System Inhibitors vs Other Antihypertensives in Hypertensive Blacks: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Palla Mohan , Ando Tomo , Androulakis Emmanuel , Telila Tesfaye , Briasoulis Alexandros
Published: July 2016

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of renin‐angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors vs other antihypertensive agents on cardiovascular outcomes in hypertensive black patients. The authors performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis of studies that compared the effects of angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) with calcium channel blockers (CCBs), diuretics, and β‐blockers in hypertensive black patients on cardiovascular outcomes. A total of 38,983 patients with a mean age of 60 years and mean follow‐up of 4 years were included in our meta‐analysis. No significant differences were found in all‐cause mortality, myocardial infarction, heart failure, and cardiovascular mortality rates among patients treated with RAS inhibitors compared with CCBs, diuretics, and β‐blockers. The incidence of stroke was significantly increased in patients treated with RAS inhibitors compared with CCBs (odds ratio, 1.56; 95% confidence interval, 1.31–1.87 [P<.00001]; I2=0%) and diuretics (odds ratio, 1.59; 95% confidence interval, 1.16–2.17 [P=.004]; I2=56%) but not β‐blockers.
Effect of Drying Temperatures and Plasticizers on the Properies of Konjac Flour Film
Authors: Jomlapeeratikul Prayoon , Poomsa‐Ad Nattapol , Wiset Lamul
Published: July 2016

Biopolymer films are increasing in popularity due to its environmental friendly. The objectives of this work were to study the effect of drying temperatures and plasticizer types on the physical and mechanical properties of films. Konjac glucomannan (KGM) was used for base film forming. A heat pump dryer was used for drying films at temperatures from 30 to 50°C. Film properties were compared with those of films dried at ambient temperature. The film properties were evaluated by film thickness, tensile stress at yield, percent elongation at yield, elastic modulus, water vapor permeability (WVP), transparency, and microstructure of film. Glycerol, lemongrass (Cymbopogon citrates) essential oil and plai (Zingiber cassumunar) essential oil were used as plasticizers. The result found that thickness, percent elongation at yield and WVP were decreased with increased drying temperature. However, tensile stress at yield and elastic modulus were increased when the drying temperatures increased. Moreover, films with essential oil were thicker, lower tensile stress at yield and elastic modulus and higher WVP than film without essential oil. Films without essential oil were compact, smooth surface and uniform microstructure than the films with essential oil.

Practical Applications

This research was to study the effect of drying temperature and plasticizer types on property of film. Film was made from konjac flour and drying by a heat pump dryer. The application of the heat pump in the drying process is to control of the relative humidity and drying temperature of the process. Heat pump dryer provides low relative humidity and low temperature; reduce the drying time and faster than hot air drying. Also essential oil used as plasticizer combined with konjac flour as film‐base could improve elasticity property and permeability of film were determined in order to produce packaging with good characteristics.
Successful factors to prevent pressure ulcers – an interview study
Authors: Hommel Ami , Gunningberg Lena , Idvall Ewa , Bååth Carina
Published: July 2016

Aims and objectives

To explore successful factors to prevent pressure ulcers in hospital settings.

Background

Pressure ulcer prevalence has been recognised as a quality indicator for both patient safety and quality of care in hospital and community settings. Most pressure ulcer can be prevented if effective measures are implemented and evaluated. The Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions initiated nationwide pressure ulcer prevalence studies in 2011. In 2014, after four years of measurement, the prevalence was still unacceptably high on a national level. The mean prevalence of pressure ulcer in the spring of 2014 was 14% in hospital settings with a range from 2·7–36·4%.

Design

Qualitative semistructured interviews were conducted.

Methods

A qualitative content analysis, in addition to Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services frameworks, was used in the analysis of the data text. Individual interviews and focus groups were used to create opportunities for both individual responses and group interactions. The study was conducted at six hospitals during the fall of 2014.

Results

Three main categories were identified as successful factors to prevent pressure ulcer in hospitals: creating a good organisation, maintaining persistent awareness and realising the benefits for patients.

Conclusion

The goal for all healthcare personnel must be delivering high‐quality, sustainable care to patients. Prevention of pressure ulcer is crucial in this work. It seems to be easier for small hospitals (with a low number of units/beds) to develop and sustain an effective organisation in prevention work.

Relevance to clinical practice

The nurse managers’ attitude and engagement are crucial to enable the personnel to work actively with pressure ulcer prevention. Strategies are proposed to advance clinical leadership, knowledge, skills and abilities for the crucial implementation of pressure ulcer prevention.
Intermittent urethral catheterisation: the reality of the lubricants and catheters in the clinical practice of a Brazilian service
Authors: Mazzo Alessandra , Pecci Gabriel Luiz , Fumincelli Laís , Neves Roberta Corsini , dos Santos Rachel Cristina Rodrigues , Cassini Marcelo Ferreira , Tucci Silvio
Published: July 2016

Aims and objectives

To identify how catheters and lubricants have been used among patients using intermittent urinary catheterisation in rehabilitation.

Background

The clean intermittent urinary catheterisation technique is an invasive procedure can cause discomfort, pain and urethral traumas. The use of lubricants and lubricated urinary catheters reduces the friction between the catheter and the urethral mucosa, minimising the risks.

Design

A descriptive exploratory design was used.

Methods

Quantitative and descriptive study developed at a rehabilitation centre of a University Hospital in the interior of the state of São Paulo, Brazil, at the Intermittent Urinary Catheterisation Outpatient Clinic, between June 2012–December 2014. After ethical approval, the data were collected through an interview with the support of a semistructured questionnaire, held during the nursing consultation. Among the users, patients using intermittent urinary catheterisation were interviewed, over 18 years of age and minors younger than eight years accompanied. Descriptive statistical analysis was applied.

Results

Most of 214 (100·0%) patients were interviewed were male, single, young adults and with a primary medical diagnosis of bone marrow injury and myelomeningocele. Most patients perform the urinary catheterisation between four and six times per day. For the procedure, the majority uses polyethylene (polyvinyl chloride) catheter and, as a lubricant, 2·0% lidocaine hydrochloride on the catheter itself. Many mention lack of sensitivity when passing the catheter.

Conclusion

In the study sample, a risk of urethral traumas was evidenced, related to the inappropriate use of catheters and lubricants. For the patients’ safety, the professionals need to acknowledge the importance of the appropriate use of lubricants and lubricated catheters to implement evidence‐based practices that mobilise public policies.

Relevance to clinical practice

The use of evidences demonstrates that the appropriate use of lubricants for intermittent urinary catheterisation is fundamental for patient safety and the performance of the best practices.
Comparison of Two Risk Models in Predicting the Incidence of Contrast‐Induced Nephropathy after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Araujo Gustavo N. , Wainstein Marco V. , McCabe James M. , Huang Pei‐Hsiu , Govindarajulu Usha S. , Resnic Frederic S.
Published: July 2016

Objectives

We sought to compare 2 contrast‐induced nephropathy (CIN) risk prediction models in a validation cohort using a consensus definition.

Background

Contrast‐induced nephropathy (CIN) is independently associated with mortality following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Multiple prediction models for the development of CIN have been published using heterogeneous outcome definitions.

Methods

We analyzed 5,540 patients who underwent PCI from January 2005 to June 2012 at a single academic medical center. The primary outcome was development of CIN, defined as an increase in serum creatinine of ≥0.5 mg/dl or a relative increase of ≥25% from baseline. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves were used to evaluate the discriminatory power of Mehran and WBH prediction models.

Results

The mean age of our cohort was 68 ± 12 years. The mean baseline creatinine was 1.2 ± 0.53 mg/dl (eGFR 73 ± 27 ml/min). The mean contrast volume used was 212 ± 92 ml. CIN occurred in 436 patients (7.9%). The Mehran risk score demonstrated better discrimination than the William Beaumont Hospital (WBH) risk score to predict the occurrence of CIN (c statistic: 0.82 vs. 0.73, respectively). Mortality at 30 days was approximately 8 times higher among patients with CIN as compared to those without (14.7% vs. 1.8% P < 0.01).

Conclusions

In an independent validation cohort, the Mehran risk model demonstrates greater discriminatory power than the WBH model in predicting the incidence of CIN. Mortality was significantly higher in patients who developed CIN after PCI.
Dental Implant Length and Diameter: A Proposed Classification Scheme
Authors: Al‐Johany Sulieman S. , Al Amri Mohammad D. , Alsaeed Suliman , Alalola Bassam
Published: July 2016

Purpose

To propose a length‐and‐diameter‐based classification scheme for dental implants to standardize terminology in the dental literature and communication between interested parties.

Materials and Methods

This study was mainly based on searching two major resources: published scientific research papers and 14 of the most popular dental implant manufacturers. Indexed databases were searched from January 2004 up to and including February 2016 using the keywords “dental implant length” and “dental implant diameter.” Retrieved titles and abstracts were screened, and related full‐text articles were reviewed. Full‐text articles that clearly stated the terms and measurements of implants used were included and considered for proposing this classification scheme.

Results

The initial search for implant diameter and length yielded 1007 and 936 articles, respectively. A total of 85 studies (41 about diameter, 44 about length) were selected and reviewed. The remaining studies (966 about diameter, 892 about length) that did not abide by the eligibility criteria were excluded. The terms “long,” “short,” “standard,” “wide,” and “narrow” were the most commonly used terms in the literature. A classification scheme for implants by diameter and length was proposed.

Conclusions

Indexed publications contain a variety of terms used by authors to describe diameter and length of dental implants without conformity and standardization. The classification scheme proposed in this article could serve as a reference for interested parties.
Heveochlorella (Trebouxiophyceae): a little‐known genus of unicellular green algae outside the Trebouxiales emerges unexpectedly as a major clade of lichen photobionts in foliicolous communities
Authors: Sanders William B. , Pérez‐Ortega Sergio , Nelsen Matthew P. , Lücking Robert , de los Ríos Asunción
Published: July 2016

Foliicolous lichens are formed by diverse, highly specialized fungi that establish themselves and complete their life cycle within the brief duration of their leaf substratum. Over half of these lichen‐forming fungi are members of either the Gomphillaceae or Pilocarpaceae, and associate with Trebouxia‐like green algae whose identities have never been positively determined. We investigated the phylogenetic affinities of these photobionts to better understand their role in lichen establishment on an ephemeral surface. Thallus samples of Gomphillaceae and Pilocarpaceae were collected from foliicolous communities in southwest Florida and processed for sequencing of photobiont marker genes, algal cultivation and/or TEM. Additional specimens from these families and also from Aspidothelium (Thelenellaceae) were collected from a variety of substrates globally. Sequences from rbcL and nuSSU regions were obtained and subjected to Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian analyses. Analysis of 37 rbcL and 7 nuSSU algal sequences placed all photobionts studied within the provisional trebouxiophycean assemblage known as the Watanabea clade. All but three of the sequences showed affinities within Heveochlorella, a genus recently described from tree trunks in East Asia. The photobiont chloroplast showed multiple thylakoid stacks penetrating the pyrenoid centripetally as tubules lined with pyrenoglobuli, similar to the two described species of Heveochlorella. We conclude that Heveochlorella includes algae of potentially major importance as lichen photobionts, particularly within (but not limited to) foliicolous communities in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. The ease with which they may be cultivated on minimal media suggests their potential to thrive free‐living as well as in lichen symbiosis.
A review of anaemia of inflammatory disease in dogs and cats
Authors: Chikazawa S. , Dunning M. D.
Published: July 2016

Anaemia of inflammatory disease is a common cause of anaemia in routine veterinary practice. It is most often mild to moderate, normocytic, normochromic and non‐regenerative. Shortened red cell life span, inhibition of iron metabolism and impaired bone marrow response to erythropoietin all contribute to its development. Although anaemia of inflammatory disease is a well‐known cause of anaemia in dogs and cats, there is a lack of epidemiological information because specific diagnostic criteria have not been established in veterinary species. Anaemia of inflammatory disease is associated with a poor outcome in various disease states in human medicine; however, its clinical significance and treatment in veterinary medicine are not well understood. This review article describes anaemia of inflammatory disease in dogs and cats and considers its potential significance.