bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Responses in gut microbiota and fat metabolism to a halogenated methane analogue in Sprague Dawley rats
Authors: Su Yong , Luo Yu‐Heng , Zhang Ling‐Li , Smidt Hauke , Zhu Wei‐Yun
Published: March 2015

Recent studies on germ‐free mice show that intestinal methanogens may be closely associated with host's adipose metabolism. The present study aimed to investigate effects of inhibition of intestinal methanogen populations on host fat metabolism by establishing a healthy Sprague Dawley (SD) rat model through the intragastric administration of bromochlordomethane (BCM). Forty‐five 8‐week old healthy male SD rats were randomly divided into five groups including one control and four BCM treatments. The experiment lasted 60 days with two separate 30‐day experimental periods. At the end of first period, three BCM treatment groups were further used: one group continued with BCM treatment, one group stopped with BCM treatment, and the other one inoculated with faecal mixture of methanogens from rats. Results showed that the methanogen population in feces was reduced sixfold with no effect on the bacterial community by daily dosing with BCM. Daily gain, epididymal fat pad weight, levels of plasma low‐density lipoprotein and cholesterol were significantly higher in the BCM‐treated animals, while the high‐density lipoprotein was lower than that of the control. The expression of PPARγ, LPL, PP2A, SREBP‐1c, ChREBP, FASN and adiponectin genes in BCM treatment group was universally upregulated, while the expression of Fiaf gene was downregulated. After termination of BCM treatment and followed either with or without re‐inocubation with faecal methanogen mixture, the rats had their faecal methanogen populations, blood parameters and gene expression returned to the original level. Results suggest that regulation of gut methanogens might be a possible approach to control host body weight.
The application of nitric oxide to control biofouling of membrane bioreactors
Authors: Luo Jinxue , Zhang Jinsong , Barnes Robert J. , Tan Xiaohui , McDougald Diane , Fane Anthony G. , Zhuang Guoqiang , Kjelleberg Staffan , Cohen Yehuda , Rice Scott A.
Published: March 2015

A novel strategy to control membrane bioreactor (MBR) biofouling using the nitric oxide (NO) donor compound PROLI NONOate was examined. When the biofilm was pre‐established on membranes at transmembrane pressure (TMP) of 88–90 kPa, backwashing of the membrane module with 80 μM PROLI NONOate for 45 min once daily for 37 days reduced the fouling resistance (Rf) by 56%. Similarly, a daily, 1 h exposure of the membrane to 80 μM PROLI NONOate from the commencement of MBR operation for 85 days resulted in reduction of the TMP and Rf by 32.3% and 28.2%. The microbial community in the control MBR was observed to change from days 71 to 85, which correlates with the rapid TMP increase. Interestingly, NO‐treated biofilms at 85 days had a higher similarity with the control biofilms at 71 days relative to the control biofilms at 85 days, indicating that the NO treatment delayed the development of biofilm bacterial community. Despite this difference, sequence analysis indicated that NO treatment did not result in a significant shift in the dominant fouling species. Confocal microscopy revealed that the biomass of biopolymers and microorganisms in biofilms were all reduced on the PROLI NONOate‐treated membranes, where there were reductions of 37.7% for proteins and 66.7% for microbial cells, which correlates with the reduction in TMP. These results suggest that NO treatment could be a promising strategy to control biofouling in MBRs.
Review of MRI wrist examination since introduction of Medicare item number
Authors: Jones Brendan J. , Sinnamon Mark
Published: March 2015

Introduction

The Australian Health Department provided extended rebatable requesting rights to general practitioners in 2012 for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations in patients less than 16 years of age for a small set of clinically appropriate indications. Included item numbers 63522 and 63523 ‘referral by a medical practitioner (excluding a specialist and consultant physician) for a scan of wrist following radiographic examination where scaphoid fracture is suspected‘. The aim of this study is to evaluate MRI examinations of suspected scaphoid fractures in the paediatric population following the Medicare item number introduction.

Methods

Review of 60 consecutive MR wrist examinations requested by general practitioners and performed between 30 November 2012 and 16 July 2014 for a rebatable magnet in a private clinical setting. The indication for all studies was to exclude a clinically suspected fractured scaphoid following a normal radiograph. All patients were less than 16 years of age at time of examination.

Results

Sixty examinations were performed; 51 revealed pathology (85% of cases) with nine normal examinations (15%). Twenty‐nine studies revealed one of more fractures involving the carpals, metacarpals or distal radius. In total, 41 fractures were identified on MRI examination with 29 carpal bone fractures, six distal radius fractures and six metacarpal fractures.

Conclusions

The results highlight the sensitivity of MR wrist examination and its diagnostic benefit in clinically suspected paediatric scaphoid fractures. In addition, it reflects the prudent referral nature of general practitioners.
Structural Quality Indicators to Support Quality of Care for Older People With Cognitive Impairment in Emergency Departments
Authors: Schnitker Linda M. , Martin‐Khan Melinda , Burkett Ellen , Brand Caroline A. , Beattie Elizabeth R. A. , Jones Richard N. , Gray Len C. ,   The Research Collaboration for Quality Care of Older Persons: Emergency Care Panel
Published: March 2015

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to identify the structural quality of care domains and to establish a set of structural quality indicators (SQIs) for the assessment of care of older people with cognitive impairment in emergency departments (EDs).

Methods

A structured approach to SQI development was undertaken including: 1) a comprehensive search of peer‐reviewed and gray literature focusing on identification of evidence‐based interventions targeting structure of care of older patients with cognitive impairment and existing SQIs; 2) a consultative process engaging experts in the care of older people and epidemiologic methods (i.e., advisory panel) leading to development of a draft set of SQIs; 3) field testing of drafted SQIs in eight EDs, leading to refinement of the SQI set; and 4) an independent voting process among the panelists for SQI inclusion in a final set, using preestablished inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results

At the conclusion of the process, five SQIs targeting the management of older ED patients with cognitive impairment were developed: 1) the ED has a policy outlining the management of older people with cognitive impairment during the ED episode of care; 2) the ED has a policy outlining issues relevant to carers of older people with cognitive impairment, encompassing the need to include the (family) carer in the ED episode of care; 3) the ED has a policy outlining the assessment and management of behavioral symptoms, with specific reference to older people with cognitive impairment; 4) the ED has a policy outlining delirium prevention strategies, including the assessment of patients’ delirium risk factors; and 5) the ED has a policy outlining pain assessment and management for older people with cognitive impairment.

Conclusions

This article presents a set of SQIs for the evaluation of performance in caring for older people with cognitive impairment in EDs.
Cutaneous manifestations of peripheral T‐cell lymphoma, not otherwise specified: A case series highlighting the diagnostic challenges for this heterogeneous group
Authors: Wallett Arabella , Ibbetson Jan S , Kearney Daniel , Newland Kate , Sidhu Shireen
Published: March 2015

Peripheral T‐cell lymphoma, not otherwise specified (PTCL, NOS) is a rare, heterogeneous group of nodal and extranodal mature T‐cell lymphomas that do not correspond to any of the defined T‐cell entities, according to the World Health Organization classification. Most cases present with late stage nodal disease; however extranodal involvement is common. Skin and subcutaneous involvement is reported in approximately 20% of cases. Little attention has been given to the highly variable skin manifestations in the literature. It is our experience that lesions can present in ways other than previously described nodular or tumourous lesions that often ulcerate. We present a case series from a large tertiary institution of seven cases of PTCL, NOS with skin involvement, highlighting the variable presentations and diagnostic challenges for this heterogeneous group.
Squamoid eccrine ductal carcinoma of the scalp
Authors: Chan Hsien , Howard Vicki , Moir Denis , Dyall‐Smith Delwyn
Published: March 2015

An 85‐year‐old man presented with an ulcerated pruritic nodule on the scalp. Histology of a deep curette specimen showed the typical features of a squamoid eccrine ductal carcinoma: superficial squamous differentiation and deep ductal structures.
The rising trend in allergic contact dermatitis to acrylic nail products
Authors: Le Quynh , Cahill Jennifer , Palmer‐Le Amanda , Nixon Rosemary
Published: March 2015

Shellac is a newly available type of long‐wearing nail polish, which is becoming increasingly popular. We describe four cases of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) to acrylates found in Shellac nail products, involving three beauticians and one consumer who purchased the product over the internet. Increasing use of these new acrylic nail products means that dermatologists need to be aware of the possibility of ACD occurring. Testing with hydroxyethyl methacrylate alone, which is included in the Australian Baseline Series, is adequate for screening for acrylate allergy.
Sperm global DNA methylation level: association with semen parameters and genome integrity
Authors: Montjean D. , Zini A. , Ravel C. , Belloc S. , Dalleac A. , Copin H. , Boyer P. , McElreavey K. , Benkhalifa M.
Published: March 2015

Sperm DNA methylation abnormalities have been detected in oligozoospermic men. However, the association between sperm DNA methylation defects, sperm parameters and sperm DNA, and chromatin integrity remains poorly understood. This study was designed to clarify this issue. We recruited a cohort of 92 men (62 normozoospermic and 30 oligoasthenozoospermic) presenting for infertility evaluation during a 1‐year period. Sperm global DNA methylation was evaluated by an ELISA‐like method, DNA fragmentation was evaluated by flow cytometry‐based terminal transferase dUTP nick end‐labeling (TUNEL) assay (reported as DNA fragmentation index or DFI), and sperm denaturation was evaluated by aniline blue staining (reported as sperm denaturation index or SDI, a marker of chromatin compaction). We found a significant positive association between sperm global DNA methylation level and conventional sperm parameters (sperm concentration and motility), supported by the results of methylation analysis on H19‐DMR. We also identified significant inverse relationships between sperm global DNA methylation, and, both DFI and SDI. However, sperm global DNA methylation level was not related to sperm vitality or morphology. Our findings suggest that global sperm DNA methylation levels are related to conventional sperm parameters, as well as, sperm chromatin and DNA integrity.
Comprehensive investigation in patients affected by sperm macrocephaly and globozoospermia
Authors: Chianese C. , Fino M. G. , Riera Escamilla A. , López Rodrigo O. , Vinci S. , Guarducci E. , Daguin F. , Muratori M. , Tamburrino L. , Lo Giacco D. , Ars E. , Bassas L. , Costa M. , Pisatauro V. , Noci I. , Coccia E. , Provenzano A. , Ruiz‐Castañé E. , Giglio S. , Piomboni P. , Krausz C.
Published: March 2015

The aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive genetic/phenotypic characterization of subjects suffering infertility owing to sperm macrocephaly (n = 3) or globozoospermia (n = 9) and to investigate whether the patients’ genetic status was correlated with the alteration of various sperm parameters. AURKC was sequenced in case of sperm macrocephaly while the DPY19L2 status has been analyzed by multiple approaches including a novel qPCR–based copy number assay in case of globozoospermia. Globozoospermic patients were also analyzed for SPACA1, a novel candidate gene herein tested for the first time in humans. The effect of the patients’ genetic status was interrogated by implementing the molecular screening with the characterization of several sperm parameters: (i) routine sperm analysis, integrated with transmission electron microscopy; (ii) sperm fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis; (iii) sperm DNA fragmentation (DF) analysis. Moreover, for the first time, we performed microsatellite instability analysis as a marker of genome instability in men with sperm macrocephaly and globozoospermia. Finally, artificial reproductive technology (ART) history has been reported for those patients who underwent the treatment. Macrocephalic patients had an AURKC mutation and >89% tetraploid, highly fragmented spermatozoa. DPY19L2 was mutated in all patients with >80% globozoospermia: the two homozygous deleted men and the compound heterozygous showed the severest phenotype (90–100%). The newly developed qPCR method was fully validated and has the potential of detecting also yet undiscovered deletions. DPY19L2 status is unlikely related to FISH anomalies and DF, although globozoospermic men showed a higher disomy rate and DF compared with internal reference values. No patient was mutated for SPACA1. Our data support the general agreement on the negative correlation between macro/globozoospermia and conventional intracytoplasmic sperm injection outcomes. Microsatellites were stable in all patients analyzed. The comprehensive picture provided on these severe phenotypes causing infertility is of relevance in the management of patients undergoing ART.
Angiogenic biomarkers in pregnancy: defining maternal and fetal health
Authors: Rasmussen Lene G. , Lykke Jacob A. , Staff Anne C.
Published: March 2015

We review diagnostic and predictive roles of the angiogenic proteins placental growth factor, soluble fms‐like tyrosine kinase 1, and soluble endoglin in preeclampsia, and their association with future cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and breast cancer. Specific patterns of these proteins represent preeclamptic prediction markers and combined with maternal and clinical characteristics, the predictive values increase. Women experiencing preeclampsia have increased risks of developing cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, and a decreased risk of breast cancer. High placental growth factor concentrations have, in elderly patients, been shown to predict cardiovascular events. Diabetes is also a risk factor for future cardiovascular disease. Diabetic vascular complications are associated with increased soluble endoglin concentrations, and vascular endothelial growth factor concentrations are correlated to HbA1c and fasting glucose. Hence dysregulation in angiogenic proteins may link preeclampsia and cardiovascular diseases, targeting women who could in future benefit from prophylactic programs to possibly prevent, delay or reduce cardiovascular disease.
Review article: the safety of therapeutic drugs in male inflammatory bowel disease patients wishing to conceive
Authors: Sands K. , Jansen R. , Zaslau S. , Greenwald D.
Published: March 2015

Background

Many therapeutic drugs are used by patients with inflammatory bowel disease, often around the time of conception. The pregnancy outcomes of males and females exposed to these therapeutics needs to be examined and this information is necessary to counsel patients appropriately.

Aim

To review the literature describing male infertility and inflammatory bowel disease to educate practitioners of the impact of inflammatory bowel disease on male reproduction and the impact of therapeutics on pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

We performed a PubMed search using the search terms ‘male infertility,’ ‘Crohn's disease,’ ‘inflammatory bowel disease,’ ‘ulcerative colitis,’ ‘ciprofloxacin AND infertility,’ ‘metronidazole AND infertility,’ ‘sulfasalazine AND infertility,’ ‘azathioprine AND infertility,’ ‘methotrexate AND infertility,’ ‘ciclosporin AND infertility,’ ‘corticosteroids AND infertility,’ ‘infliximab AND male fertility,’ ‘infliximab AND infertility,’ ‘infliximab AND foetus,’ ‘infliximab AND paternal exposure’ and ‘infliximab AND sperm.’ References from selected papers were reviewed and used if relevant.

Results

Over half of male patients with IBD have some degree of infertility, compared to 8–17% of the general population. Semen parameters including total count, motility and morphology may be adversely affected by therapeutics. IBD medications in males do not increase foetal risk with the possible exception of azathioprine and mercaptopurine; however, increased foetal risk is seen in other drugs if taken by female patients.

Conclusions

It is recognised that male infertility is often impacted with therapeutic drugs used to treat inflammatory bowel disease; however, the effects of the paternal drug exposure at the time of conception and exposure in utero should be considered to counsel patients appropriately.
Reduced risk of relapse after long‐term nucleos(t)ide analogue consolidation therapy for chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Chi H. , Hansen B. E. , Yim C. , Arends P. , Abu‐Amara M. , van der Eijk A. A. , Feld J. J. , de Knegt R. J. , Wong D. K. H. , Janssen H. L. A.
Published: March 2015

Background

Before stopping nucleos(t)ide analogue (NA) treatment in chronic hepatitis B (CHB), 6–12 months of consolidation therapy is recommended.

Aim

To investigate the effect of consolidation therapy on off‐treatment outcomes in CHB patients.

Methods

We included 94 patients who stopped NA after at least 1 year of therapy. Patients could be HBeAg‐positive or HBeAg‐negative at start‐of‐treatment, but were HBeAg‐negative and had undetectable HBV DNA at time of discontinuation. Consolidation therapy was defined as treatment after the first undetectable HBV DNA (and HBeAg loss for HBeAg‐positive patients) until NA cessation.

Results

At 3 years, 74% of the start‐of‐treatment HBeAg‐positive and 75% of the start‐of‐treatment HBeAg‐negative patients developed HBV DNA >2000 IU/mL at a single time point, whereas a persistent virological relapse (≥2 tests of HBV DNA >2000 IU/mL 6 months apart within 1 year) developed in 49% of the start‐of‐treatment HBeAg‐positive and 53% of the start‐of‐treatment HBeAg‐negative patients. For both HBeAg‐positive and HBeAg‐negative patients, consolidation therapy of ≥3 years was associated with lower persistent virological relapse rates compared to <1 year (1‐year relapse rate: 25% vs. 54%; P = 0.063 and 24% vs. 57%; P = 0.036, respectively). At 3 years, 9% of the HBeAg‐positive and 14% of the HBeAg‐negative patients became HBsAg‐negative. Prolonged consolidation therapy increased the likelihood of HBsAg loss. Two cirrhotic patients developed hepatic decompensation but both recovered.

Conclusions

After nucleos(t)ide analogue discontinuation, relapse was common in patients with chronic hepatitis B. Prolongation of consolidation therapy beyond 3 years decreased the risk of persistent virological relapse and increased the likelihood of HBsAg loss.
Low muscle mass and sarcopenia: common and predictive of osteopenia in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Bryant R. V. , Ooi S. , Schultz C. G. , Goess C. , Grafton R. , Hughes J. , Lim A. , Bartholomeusz F. D. , Andrews J. M.
Published: March 2015

Background

Body composition is poorly studied in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Sarcopenia describes a loss of muscle mass and strength.

Aim

To assess the prevalence of low lean mass (LM), sarcopenia and associated morbidity in an adultIBDcohort.

Methods

Cross‐sectional data were gathered on pre‐menopausal 18‐ to 50‐year‐old patients withIBD. Whole‐body dual‐energyX‐ray absorptiometry, anthropometric assessment and grip strength were performed. LowLMwas defined as ≥1 s.d. below the population mean for appendicular skeletal muscle index [ASMI(kg)/height (m)²], and sarcopenia as bothASMIand grip strength ≥1 s.d. below population mean. Multivariate regression analyses were performed.

Results

Of 137 participants (median age 31 years, BMI 24.8 kg/m2), 56% were male and 69% had Crohn's disease (CD). LowLMand sarcopenia were observed in 21% and 12% of patients, respectively, and osteopenia/osteoporosis in 38% of patients (mean lumbar spinet‐score −0.3 ± s.d. 1.1). Grip strength predicted lowLMand sarcopenia better than did body mass index (BMI) (OR4.8 vs.OR0.7 for low‐LM,P < 0.05 both). NormalBMIwas falsely reassuring in 72% and 76% of patients with lowASMIand sarcopenia, respectively. LowLMand sarcopenia (OR = 3.6,P = 0.03;OR = 6.3,P = 0.02; respectively), but notBMInor fat mass, predicted osteopenia/osteoporosis.

Conclusions

Low lean mass and sarcopenia are common in patients with IBD, and important to recognise as they predict osteopenia/osteoporosis. Grip strength testing should be incorporated into routine clinical practice to detect low lean mass deficits, which may go unrecognised using BMI alone.
CD19 chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy for haematological malignancies
Authors: Ghorashian Sara , Pule Martin , Amrolia Persis
Published: March 2015

T cells can be redirected to recognize tumour antigens by genetic modification to express a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR). These consist of antibody‐derived antigen‐binding regions linked to T cell signalling elements. CD19 is an ideal target because it is expressed on most B cell malignancies as well as normal B cells but not on other cell types, restricting any ‘on target, off tumour’ toxicity to B cell depletion. Recent clinical studies involving CD19 CAR‐directed T cells have shown unprecedented responses in a range of B cell malignancies, even in patients with chemorefractory relapse. Durable responses have been achieved, although the persistence of modified T cells may be limited. This therapy is not without toxicity, however. Cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity appear to be frequent but are treatable and reversible. CAR T cell therapy holds the promise of a tailored cellular therapy, which can form memory and be adapted to the tumour microenvironment. This review will provide a perspective on the currently available data, as well as on future developments in the field.
Ikaros and leukaemia
Authors: Olsson Linda , Johansson Bertil
Published: March 2015

The IKZF1 gene at 7p12.2 codes for IKAROS (also termed IKZF1), an essential transcription factor in haematopoiesis involved primarily in lymphoid differentiation. Its importance is underlined by the fact that deregulation of IKAROS results in leukaemia in both mice and men. During recent years, constitutional as well as acquired genetic changes of IKZF1 have been associated with human disease. For example, certain germline single nucleotide polymorphisms in IKZF1 have been shown to increase the risk of some disorders and abnormal expression and somatic rearrangements, mutations and deletions of IKZF1 (ΔIKZF1) have been detected in a wide variety of human malignancies. Of immediate clinical importance is the fact that ΔIKZF1 occurs in 15% of paediatric B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (BCP ALL) and that the presence of ΔIKZF1 is associated with an increased risk of relapse and a poor outcome; in some studies such deletions have been shown to be an independent risk factor also when minimal residual disease data are taken into account. However, cooperative genetic changes, such as ERG deletions and CRLF2 rearrangements, may modify the prognostic impact of ΔIKZF1, for better or worse. This review summarizes our current knowledge of IKZF1 abnormalities in human disease, with an emphasis on BCP ALL.
Dynamic contrast‐enhanced ultrasound parametric imaging for the detection of prostate cancer
Authors: Postema Arnoud W. , Frinking Peter J.A. , Smeenge Martijn , De Reijke Theo M. , De la Rosette Jean J.M.C.H. , Tranquart Francois , Wijkstra Hessel
Published: March 2015

Objective

To investigate the value of dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE)‐ultrasonography (US) and software‐generated parametric maps in predicting biopsy outcome and their potential to reduce the amount of negative biopsy cores.

Materials and Methods

For 651 prostate biopsy locations (82 consecutive patients) we correlated the interpretation of DCE‐US recordings with and without parametric maps with biopsy results. The parametric maps were generated by software which extracts perfusion parameters that differentiate benign from malignant tissue from DCE‐US recordings. We performed a stringent analysis (all tumours) and a clinical analysis (clinically significant tumours). We calculated the potential reduction in biopsies (benign on imaging) and the resultant missed positive biopsies (false‐negatives). Additionally, we evaluated the performance in terms of sensitivity, specificity negative predictive value (NPV) and positive predictive value (PPV) on a per‐prostate level.

Results

Based on DCE‐US, 470/651 (72.2%) of biopsy locations appeared benign, resulting in 40 false‐negatives (8.5%), considering clinically significant tumours only. Including parametric maps, 411/651 (63.1%) of the biopsy locations appeared benign, resulting in 23 false‐negatives (5.6%). In the per‐prostate clinical analysis, DCE‐US classified 38/82 prostates as benign, missing eight diagnoses. Including parametric maps, 31/82 prostates appeared benign, missing three diagnoses. Sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV were 73, 58, 50 and 79%, respectively, for DCE‐US alone and 91, 56, 57 and 90%, respectively, with parametric maps.

Conclusion

The interpretation of DCE‐US with parametric maps allows good prediction of biopsy outcome. A two‐thirds reduction in biopsy cores seems feasible with only a modest decrease in cancer diagnosis.
Feeding practices in infancy associated with caries incidence in early childhood
Authors: Chaffee Benjamin W. , Feldens Carlos Alberto , Rodrigues Priscila Humbert , Vítolo Márcia Regina
Published: March 2015

Background

Early‐life feeding behaviors foretell later dietary habits and health outcomes. Few studies have examined infant dietary patterns and caries occurrence prospectively.

Objective

Assess whether patterns in food and drink consumption before age 12 months are associated with caries incidence by preschool age.

Methods

We collected early‐life feeding data within a birth cohort from low‐income families in Porto Alegre, Brazil. Three dietary indexes were defined, based on refined sugar content and/or previously reported caries associations: a count of sweet foods or drinks introduced <6‐months (e.g., candy, cookies, soft drinks), a count of other, nonsweet items introduced <6‐months (e.g., beans, meat), and a count of sweet items consumed at 12 months. Incidence of severe early childhood caries (S‐ECC) at age 38 months (N = 458) was compared by score tertile on each index, adjusted for family, maternal, and child characteristics using regression modeling.

Results

Introduction to a greater number of presumably cariogenic items in infancy was positively associated with future caries. S‐ECC incidence was highest in the uppermost tertile of the ‘6‐month sweet index’ (adjusted cumulative incidence ratio, RR, versus lowest tertile: 1.46; 95% CI: 0.97, 2.04) and the uppermost tertile of the ‘12‐month sweet index’ (RR: 1.55; 95% CI: 1.17, 2.23). The association was specific for sweet items: caries incidence did not differ by tertile of the ‘6‐month nonsweet index’ (RR: 1.00; 95% CI: 0.70, 1.40). Additionally, each one‐unit increase on the 6‐month and the 12‐month sweet indexes, but not the 6‐month nonsweet index, was statistically significantly associated with greater S‐ECC incidence and associated with more decayed, missing, or restored teeth. Results were robust to minor changes in the items constituting each index and persisted if liquid items were excluded.

Conclusions

Dietary factors observed before age 12‐months were associated with S‐ECC at preschool age, highlighting a need for timely, multilevel intervention.
Predictive value of the Groningen Frailty Indicator for treatment outcomes in elderly patients after head and neck, or skin cancer surgery in a retrospective cohort
Authors: Bras L. , Peters T.T.A. , Wedman J. , Plaat B.E.C. , Witjes M.J.H. , van Leeuwen B.L. , van der Laan B.F.A.M. , Halmos G.B.
Published: March 2015

Objectives

Careful selection of patients eligible for extensive head and neck cancer surgery is extremely important. A reliable predictor for postoperative outcomes in the vulnerable elderly population is not yet available. The concept of frailty describes a clinical state of increased vulnerability and can be assessed using frailty tests, such as the Groningen Frailty Indicator. In the current study, the influence of Groningen Frailty Indicator‐measured frailty on clinical outcome was investigated in elderly patients surgically treated for head and neck cancer.

Design

Retrospective, explorative cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary referral centre.

Participants

A total of 90 patients of 65 years and older receiving surgical treatment for head and neck cancer with different primary sites.

Main outcome measures

The influence of frailty (Groningen Frailty Indicator) on postoperative complications (Clavien–Dindo classification), subjective postoperative experience of both patient and surgeon and survival were analysed.

Results

A total of 36 patients were considered as frail (40%). Postoperative complications could not be predicted by frailty status. However, the Groningen Frailty Indicator dimension ‘health problems’ was a significant predictor for postoperative complications (P = 0.020). Unlike age and comorbidity, frailty was associated with a poor subjective patients’ experience of the postoperative recovery (P < 0.01). Although not statistically significant, survival analysis showed a worse 5‐year overall survival in the frail group (33%) versus the non‐frail group (74%).

Conclusions

Analysis of frailty could identify elderly patients who might suffer more than expected during the postoperative period after head and neck cancer surgery. In this study, frailty was not identified as a new predictor of complications after head and neck cancer surgery.
Prevalence and correlates of adult overweight in the Muslim world: analysis of 46 countries
Authors: Kahan D.
Published: March 2015

The primary objectives of the study were to calculate overweight prevalence (body mass index ≥ 25.0) and simple correlations between 10 demographic, social welfare and behavioural variables and overweight prevalence for Muslim countries (populations >50% Muslim; N = 46). Overweight data for a country's total, male and female populations were extracted from the World Health Organization's (WHO) STEPwise country reports and relevant publications. Country‐level data for potential correlates were extracted from multiple sources: Central Intelligence Agency (literacy), Gallup Poll (religiosity), United Nations (agricultural employment, food supply, gender inequality, human development), World Bank (automobile ownership, Internet, labour force) and WHO (physical inactivity). The overall, male and female overweight prevalence was 37.4, 33.0 and 42.1%, respectively. Prevalence estimates significantly differed by economic classification, gender and ethnicity. Middle‐ and upper income countries were 1.54–7.76 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.49–8.07) times more likely overweight than low‐income countries, females were 1.48 (CI: 1.45–1.50) times more likely overweight than males and Arab countries were 2.92 (CI: 2.86–2.97) times more likely overweight than non‐Arab countries. All 10 of the potential correlates were significantly associated with overweight for at least one permutation (total, economic classification, gender, ethnicity). The greater percentage of poorer countries among non‐Arab Muslim countries, which compared with Arab countries have not as rapidly been transformed by globalization, nutrition transition and urbanization, may partially explain prevalence differences. Evaluation of correlational data generally followed associations seen in non‐Muslim countries but more complex analysis of subnational data is needed. Arab women are a particularly vulnerable subgroup and governments should act within religious and cultural parameters to provide environments that are conducive to negative energy balance.
Big push or big grab? Railways, government activism, and export growth inLatinAmerica, 1865–1913
Authors: Bignon Vincent , Esteves Rui , Herranz‐Loncán Alfonso
Published: March 2015

Railways were one of the main engines of theLatinAmerican trade boom before 1914. Railway construction often required financial support from local governments, which depended on their fiscal capacity. However, since the main government revenues were trade‐related, this generated a two‐way feedback between government revenues and railways, with a potential for multiple equilibria. The empirical tests in this article support the hypothesis of such a positive two‐way relationship. The main implication of our analysis is that the build‐up of state capacity was a necessary condition for railway expansion and also, to a large extent, for export expansion in Latin America during the first globalization.
Spatio‐temporal response properties of local field potentials in the primate superior colliculus
Authors: Ikeda Takuro , Boehnke Susan E. , Marino Robert A. , White Brian J. , Wang Chin‐An , Levy Ron , Munoz Douglas P.
Published: March 2015

Local field potentials (LFPs) are becoming increasingly popular in neurophysiological studies. However, to date, most of the knowledge about LFPs has been obtained from cortical recordings. Here, we recorded single unit activity (SUA) and LFPs simultaneously from the superior colliculus (SC) of behaving rhesus monkeys. The SC is a midbrain structure that plays a central role in the visual orienting response. Previous studies have characterised the visual and visuomotor response properties of SUA in the superficial layers of the SC and the intermediate layers of the SC, respectively. We found that the signal properties of SUA were well preserved in the LFPs recorded from the SC. The SUA and LFPs had similar spatial and temporal properties, and the response properties of LFPs differed across layers, i.e. purely visual in the superficial layers of the SC but showing significant motor responses in the intermediate layers of the SC. There were also differences between SUA and LFPs. LFPs showed a significant reversal of activity following the phasic visual response, suggesting that the neighboring neurons were suppressed. The results indicate that the LFP can be used as a reliable measure of the SC activity in lieu of SUA, and open up a new way to assess sensorimotor processing within the SC.
Pupil size tracks perceptual content and surprise
Authors: Kloosterman Niels A. , Meindertsma Thomas , van Loon Anouk M. , Lamme Victor A. F. , Bonneh Yoram S. , Donner Tobias H.
Published: March 2015

Changes in pupil size at constant light levels reflect the activity of neuromodulatory brainstem centers that control global brain state. These endogenously driven pupil dynamics can be synchronized with cognitive acts. For example, the pupil dilates during the spontaneous switches of perception of a constant sensory input in bistable perceptual illusions. It is unknown whether this pupil dilation only indicates the occurrence of perceptual switches, or also their content. Here, we measured pupil diameter in human subjects reporting the subjective disappearance and re‐appearance of a physically constant visual target surrounded by a moving pattern (‘motion‐induced blindness’ illusion). We show that the pupil dilates during the perceptual switches in the illusion and a stimulus‐evoked ‘replay’ of that illusion. Critically, the switch‐related pupil dilation encodes perceptual content, with larger amplitude for disappearance than re‐appearance. This difference in pupil response amplitude enables prediction of the type of report (disappearance vs. re‐appearance) on individual switches (receiver‐operating characteristic: 61%). The amplitude difference is independent of the relative durations of target‐visible and target‐invisible intervals and subjects' overt behavioral report of the perceptual switches. Further, we show that pupil dilation during the replay also scales with the level of surprise about the timing of switches, but there is no evidence for an interaction between the effects of surprise and perceptual content on the pupil response. Taken together, our results suggest that pupil‐linked brain systems track both the content of, and surprise about, perceptual events.
Effect of chronic corticosterone application on depression‐like behavior in C57BL/6N and C57BL/6J mice
Authors: Sturm M. , Becker A. , Schroeder A. , Bilkei‐Gorzo A. , Zimmer A.
Published: March 2015

Many studies using genetic mouse models are performed with animals on either one of the two closely related genetic backgrounds, C57BL/6J or C57BL/6N. These strains differ only in a few genetic loci, but have some phenotypic differences that also affect behavior. In order to determine the effects of chronic stress hormone exposure, which is relevant for the pathogenesis of psychiatric disorders, we investigated here the behavioral manifestations of long‐term increase in corticosterone levels. Thus, male mice from both sub‐strains were subcutaneously implanted with corticosterone (20 mg) or placebo pellets that released the hormone for a period of 21 days and resulted in significantly elevated plasma corticosterone levels. Corticosterone significantly increased food intake in B6N, but not in B6J mice. At various time points after pellet implantation, we performed tests relevant to activity and emotional behaviors. B6J mice displayed a generally higher activity in the home cage and the open field. Corticosterone decreased the activity. In B6N mice, corticosterone also decreased sucrose preference, worsened the coat state and increased forced swim immobility, while it had no effect in the B6J strain. Altogether, these results indicate that B6N mice are more sensitive to some of the effects of chronic corticosterone treatment than B6J mice.
Testing reliability and validity of oral impacts on daily performances for Chinese‐speaking elderly Singaporeans
Authors: Nair Rahul , Tsakos Georgios , Yee Ting Fai Robert
Published: March 2015

Objective

To cross‐culturally adapt the oral impacts on daily performance (OIDP) and assess its reliability and validity on Chinese‐speaking community dwelling elderly Singaporeans.

Background

There are no previous reports of valid oral health‐related quality of life instruments for elderly Singaporeans or perceived conditions associated with impacts reported in OIDP among the Singaporean elders.

Methods

The OIDP was translated from English to Chinese and then back translated. The OIDP questionnaire along with questions related to overall quality of life and self‐rated dental health was administered to 202 Chinese‐speaking elderly Singaporeans by trained interviewers, and it was repeated after 1 month. Test–retest reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficient; internal consistency was established using Cronbach's alpha, and construct validity using correlation coefficients with self‐reported oral health‐related and global quality of life measures. In addition, Kruskal–Wallis tests assessed differences in the OIDP score between different subjective health and global quality of life groups.

Results

The median age of participants was 75 years. About 19% reported oral impacts and difficulty eating was the most prevalent oral impact. Internal consistency was good with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.75, and the intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.75 (0.67–0.81). OIDP was significantly correlated with all measures of self‐reported oral health and global ratings of quality of life, with correlation coefficients ranging between 0.15 and 0.52. Groups with worse perceptions about their health and quality of life had significantly higher OIDP scores.

Conclusion

The OIDP showed successful reliability and validity for its use among Chinese‐speaking older Singaporeans.
GATA3 expression in gestational trophoblastic tissues and tumours
Authors: Mirkovic Jelena , Elias Kevin , Drapkin Ronny , Barletta Justine A , Quade Bradley , Hirsch Michelle S
Published: March 2015

Aims

GATA3 is a zinc‐finger transcription factor that is important for trophoblast differentiation. GATA3 is sensitive for urothelial and breast carcinomas, but the specificity is low. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of GATA3 in trophoblast‐related tissues and neoplasia.

Methods and results

GATA3 immunohistochemistry was performed on 33 placentas, one atypical placental site nodule, 25 hydatidiform moles (HMs), and 13 gestational trophoblastic tumours (GTTs). One hundred and sixty endometrial adenocarcinomas were also stained. Western blotting was performed on trophoblastic cell lines and compared to other cancer cell lines. Immature placentas were characterized by strong, diffuse nuclear GATA3 staining. Mature placentas showed less expression with scattered positive cells in the villous cytotrophoblast. HMs showed diffuse expression in cytotrophoblast and implantation site trophoblast, and heterogeneous expression in extravillous trophoblast. All GTTs were positive for GATA3. All endometrial adenocarcinomas were GATA3‐negative. Western blotting demonstrated GATA3 in choriocarcinoma, whereas the placenta, and cervical and endometrial cancer cell lines, were negative.

Conclusions

All trophoblast lineages were positive for GATA3. The extent of GATA3 expression varied between immature and mature placentas, suggesting a role in trophoblast maturation. GATA3 does not distinguish normal placenta, HMs, or GTTs. Nevertheless, GATA3 may help in distinguishing trophoblastic tumors from Mullerian epithelial malignancies and a subset of tumours of unknown origin.
In Situ‐Strengthened C/SiC Joint Brazed with Cu‐Based Active Filler and Its Performance
Authors: Chen Jie , Dong Shaoming , Zhang Xiangyu , Kan Yanmei , Feng Qian
Published: March 2015

Three‐dimensional needled C/SiC composites were brazed in vacuum with Cu–Ti–Al active filler at 950–1040°C for 10–30 min. The joint microstructure and fracture surface were characterized by optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). A reaction layer filled with fine titanium carbide and titanium silicide grains was formed at the interface. Titanium carbide and titanium silicide particles and whiskers were also in situ formed in the brazing seam. Shear strength of the joint brazed at 970°C for 15 min was 85 MPa, 33 MPa, and 18 MPa at room temperatures 600 and 800°C, respectively.
Entrepreneurship Research on Intuition: A Critical Analysis and Research Agenda
Authors: Baldacchino Leonie , Ucbasaran Deniz , Cabantous Laure , Lockett Andy
Published: March 2015

Intuition is a way of processing information that is largely unconscious, associative, fast and contextually dependent. As part of the growing cognition‐oriented research agenda in the entrepreneurship field, the specific cognitive construct of intuition has attracted relatively little attention. The authors find this position surprising, particularly since some entrepreneurship scholars have described intuition as the seed of entrepreneurial activity. This review examines the small but rapidly growing literature at the intersection of intuition and entrepreneurship. In critically analysing this body of work, the authors reveal a number of areas that warrant further attention if scholars wish to enhance academic understanding of the role of intuition in the entrepreneurial process. From this review, the authors develop an agenda to help guide scholars of entrepreneurial cognition with a specific interest in intuition in their future research. In doing so, they address a gap in the entrepreneurial cognition literature, which currently lacks a clear view of the value of entrepreneurship research on intuition and of how it should be conducted.
Social Media(tion) and the Reshaping of Public/Private Boundaries in Employment Relations
Authors: McDonald Paula , Thompson Paul
Published: March 2015

Tensions surrounding social media in the employment relationship are increasingly evident in the media, public rhetoric, and courts and employment tribunals. Yet the underlying causes and dimensions of these tensions have remained largely unexplored. This article firstly reviews the available literature addressing social media and employment, outlining three primary sources of contestation: profiling, disparaging posts and blogs, and private use of social media during work time. In each area, the key dynamics and underlying concerns of the central actors involved are identified. The article then seeks to canvas explanations for these forms of contestation associated with social media at work. It is argued that the architecture of social media disrupts traditional relations in organisational life by driving employer and employee actions that (re)shape and (re)constitute the boundaries between public and private spheres. Although employers and employees are using the same social technologies, their respective concerns about and points of entry to these technologies, in contrast to traditional manifestations of conflict and resistance, are asymmetric. The article concludes with a representational summary of the relative legitimacy of concerns for organisational actors and outlines areas for future research.
Kidney Function and Cerebral Small Vessel Disease in the General Population
Authors: Akoudad Saloua , Sedaghat Sanaz , Hofman Albert , Koudstaal Peter J. , van der Lugt Aad , Ikram M. Arfan , Vernooij Meike W.
Published: March 2015

Background

Anatomic and hemodynamic similarities between renal and cerebral vessels suggest a tight link between kidney disease and brain disease. Although several distinct markers are used to identify subclinical kidney and brain disease, a comprehensive assessment of how these markers link damage at both end organs is lacking.

Aim

To investigate whether measures of kidney function were associated with cerebral small vessel disease on MRI.

Methods

In 2526 participants of the population-based Rotterdam Study, we measured urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio, and estimated glomerular filtration rate based on serum creatinine and cystatin C. All participants underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging. We assessed presence of cerebral small vessel disease by calculating white matter lesion volumes and rating the presence of lacunes and cerebral microbleeds. We used multivariable linear and logistic regression to investigate the association between kidney function and cerebral small vessel disease.

Results

Worse kidney function was consistently associated with a larger white matter lesion volume (mean difference per standard deviation increase in albumin-to-creatinine ratio: 0·09, 95% confidence interval 0·05; 0·12; per standard deviation decrease in creatinine-based estimated glomerular filtration rate: −0·04, 95% confidence interval −0·08;−0·01, and per standard deviation decrease in cystatin C-based estimated glomerular filtration rate: −0·09, 95% confidence interval −0·13;−0·05). Persons with higher albumin-to-creatinine ratio or lower cystatin C-based estimated glomerular filtration rate levels had a higher prevalence of lacunes (odds ratio per standard deviation increase in albumin-to-creatinine ratio: 1·24, 95% confidence interval 1·07; 1·43). Only participants in the highest quartile of albumin-to-creatinine ratio had a higher frequency of microbleeds compared to the lowest quartile.

Conclusions

Worse kidney function is associated with cerebral small vessel disease. Of all measures of kidney function, in particular albumin-to-creatinine ratio is related to cerebral small vessel disease.