bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of prostate cancer using magnetic resonance imaging/ultrasonography image‐fusion targeted biopsy in African‐American men
Authors: Shin Toshitaka , Smyth Thomas B. , Ukimura Osamu , Ahmadi Nariman , de Castro Abreu Andre Luis , Oishi Masakatsu , Mimata Hiromitsu , Gill Inderbir S.
Published: January 2017

Objective

To assess the diagnostic yield of targeted prostate biopsy in African‐American (A‐A) men using image fusion of multi‐parametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) with real‐time transrectal ultrasonography (US).

Patients and Methods

We retrospectively analysed 661 patients (117 A‐A and 544 Caucasian) who had mpMRI before biopsy and then underwent MRI/US image‐fusion targeted biopsy (FTB) between October 2012 and August 2015. The mpMRIs were reported on a 5‐point Likert scale of suspicion. Clinically significant prostate cancer (CSPC) was defined as biopsy Gleason score ≥7.

Results

After controlling for age, prostate‐specific antigen level and prostate volume, there were no significant differences between A‐A and Caucasian men in the detection rate of overall cancer (35.0% vs 34.2%, P = 0.9) and CSPC (18.8% vs 21.7%, P = 0.3) with MRI/US FTB. There were no significant differences between the races in the location of dominant lesions on mpMRI, and in the proportion of 5‐point Likert scoring. In A‐A men, MRI/US FTB from the grade 4–5 lesions outperformed random biopsy in the detection rate of overall cancer (70.6% vs 37.2%, P = 0.003) and CSPC (52.9% vs 12.4%, P < 0.001). MRI/US FTB outperformed random biopsy in cancer core length (5.0 vs 2.4 mm, P = 0.001), in cancer rate per core (24.9% vs 6.8%, P < 0.001), and in efficiency for detecting one patient with CSPC (mean number of cores needed 13.3 vs 81.9, P < 0.001), respectively.

Conclusions

Our key finding confirms a lack of racial difference in the detection rate of overall prostate cancers and CSPC with MRI/US FTB between A‐A and Caucasian men. MRI/US FTB detected more CSPC using fewer cores compared with random biopsy.
Parenting and the Adjustment of Children Born to Gay Fathers Through Surrogacy
Authors: Golombok Susan , Blake Lucy , Slutsky Jenna , Raffanello Elizabeth , Roman Gabriela D. , Ehrhardt Anke
Published: January 2017

Findings are presented on a study of 40 gay father families created through surrogacy and a comparison group of 55 lesbian mother families created through donor insemination with a child aged 3–9 years. Standardized interview, observational and questionnaire measures of stigmatization, quality of parent–child relationships, and children's adjustment were administered to parents, children, and teachers. Children in both family types showed high levels of adjustment with lower levels of children's internalizing problems reported by gay fathers. Irrespective of family type, children whose parents perceived greater stigmatization and children who experienced higher levels of negative parenting showed higher levels of parent‐reported externalizing problems. The findings contribute to theoretical understanding of the role of family structure and family processes in child adjustment.
Associations of objective physical activity with insulin sensitivity and circulating adipokine profile: the Framingham Heart Study
Authors: Spartano N. L. , Stevenson M. D. , Xanthakis V. , Larson M. G. , Andersson C. , Murabito J. M. , Vasan R. S.
Published: January 2017

The purpose of this study was to explore the relation of physical activity (PA) and sedentary time (SED) to insulin sensitivity and adipokines. We assessed PA and SED using Actical accelerometers and insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) in 2109 participants (free of type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus) from Framingham Generation 3 and Omni 2 cohorts (mean age 46 years, 54% women). Systemic inflammation (C‐reactive protein [CRP]) and circulating adipokines were measured 6 years earlier. Steps per day, moderate‐to‐vigorous PA (MVPA) and SED per wear time (%SED) were predictor variables in multivariable regression analyses, with HOMA‐IR, CRP and circulating adipokines as outcome measures. We reported that higher MVPA and more steps per day were associated with lower HOMA‐IR, adjusting for %SED (β = −0.036, P = 0.002; β = −0.041, P = 0.005). Steps were inversely associated with CRP, but were directly associated with insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐1 levels (β = −0.111, P = 0.002; β = 3.293, P = 0.007). %SED was positively associated with HOMA‐IR (β = 0.033, P < 0.0001), but non‐significant after adjusting for MVPA (P = 0.13). %SED was associated with higher ratio of leptin/leptin receptor (sOB‐R) and higher adipocyte fatty acid‐binding protein (FABP)4 (β = 0.096, P < 0.0001; β = 0.593, P = 0.002). Our findings suggest differential influences of PA vs. SED on metabolic pathways, with PA modulating insulin resistance and inflammation, whereas SED influences FABPs.
Rectal NSAIDs in the prevention of post‐endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis in unselected patients: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Shen Chongrong , Shi Yanqiang , Liang Tianyu , Su Peizhu
Published: January 2017

Background and Aim

Efficacy of rectal non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for post‐endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis (PEP) prophylaxis in unselected patients remained controversial. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of rectal NSAIDs in the prevention of PEP in unselected patients.

Methods

An electronic literature search in the Cochrane Library, Embase, and PubMed was carried out for randomized controlled trials comparing rectal indomethacin or diclofenac with placebo in the prevention of PEP in unselected patients. Cochrane risk of bias tool was used to evaluate methodological quality. The data were carried out in forest plots using fixed‐effect methods, and random‐effect methods were used when heterogeneity was significant.

Results

A total of nine trials were included in our final analysis. Rectal NSAIDs were effective to reduce the incidence of PEP in unselected patients (RR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.46–0.79), especially for moderate‐to‐severe PEP (RR, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.17–0.79). Both indomethacin (RR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.50–0.88) and diclofenac (RR, 0.29; 95% CI, 0.12–0.69) were significantly efficacious. Rectal NSAIDs given pre‐ERCP showed significant efficacy (RR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.39–0.71), whether when given within 30 min pre‐ERCP (RR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.42–0.92) or not (RR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.28–0.67).

Conclusion

Rectal NSAIDs are effective in the prevention of PEP in unselected patients.
Flexible percutaneous endoscopic retroperitoneal necrosectomy as rescue therapy for pancreatic necroses beyond the reach of endoscopic ultrasonography: A case series
Authors: Jürgensen Christian , Brückner Stefan , Reichel Stephanie , Kilian Maik , Pannach Sven , Distler Marius , Weitz Jürgen , Neser Frank , Hampe Jochen , Will Uwe
Published: January 2017

Minimally invasive or endoscopic transluminal drainage and necrosectomy are the standard of care for infected pancreatic fluid collections and necroses after pancreatitis. In an endoscopic treatment algorithm, necroses beyond the reach of safe endoscopic access are typically treated by percutaneous drainage. We aimed to evaluate percutaneous minimally invasive necrosectomy using a purely endoscopic technique in patients with extensive necrosis. In patients with necroses beyond safe transluminal reach, the percutaneous drainage canal was used for flexible endoscopic access and dilatation of the tract to 20 mm. Percutaneous endoscopic necrosectomy was carried out through this canal. We present a case series of 14 patients in whom between one and four necrosectomy (median two) sessions were done to remove solid necroses successfully in 13 out of 14 patients. There were no major complications apart from one patient with abdominal compartment syndrome secondary to delayed erosion of the splenic artery. Percutaneous flexible necrosectomy might evolve into an alternative to surgical minimally invasive necrosectomy in anatomical sites beyond transluminal endoscopic reach.
Trophic position and seasonal changes in the diet of the red wood antFormica aquiloniaas indicated by stable isotope analysis
Authors: IAKOVLEV IVAN K. , NOVGORODOVA TATIANA A. , TIUNOV ALEXEI V. , REZNIKOVA ZHANNA I.
Published: January 2017

1. Red wood ants are among the most numerous generalist predators and strongly affect the composition of arthropod communities in forest ecosystems. However, their trophic position remains poorly understood. Stable isotope analysis was applied to study the trophic position ofFormica aquiloniaand reveal seasonal changes in its trophic links with both myrmecophilous aphids and other invertebrates in a mixed forest of westernSiberia.

2. Theδ15Nvalues ofF. aquiloniaexceeded those of herbivores and aphids by approximately 3.5‰. Despite obligate trophobiotic relationships with aphids,F. aquiloniaoccupied the trophic position of first‐order predator. The higher content of13Cin the worker ants, compared with members of grazing food chains, was explained by their consumption of13C‐enriched aphid honeydew.

3. Myrmecophilous tree‐dwelling aphids were enriched in13Cand15Nrelative to grass‐inhabiting species, and the honeydew of tree‐dwelling aphids had higherδ13Cvalues than those of the honeydew of grass‐inhabiting aphids.

4. The decrease inδ13Cvalues of the worker ants from spring and summer to autumn apparently reflected the transition from the collection of tree sap and feeding on the aphid honeydew from trees with high13Ccontent in the spring and early summer to a more diverse liquid diet in late summer, which included13C‐depleted honeydew of aphids from herbs.

5. The prevalence of the15N‐depleted aphid honeydew in the ants' diet in the second half of the summer is discussed as one possible explanation for the seasonal decline inδ15Nvalues of the worker ants.
Juvenile coho salmon movement, growth and survival in a coastal basin of southern Oregon
Authors: Weybright Adam D. , Giannico Guillermo R.
Published: January 2017

Juvenile salmonids display highly variable spatial and temporal patterns of early dispersal that are influenced by density‐dependent and density‐independent factors. Although juvenile coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) movement patterns in streams and their relationship with body mass and growth have been examined in previous studies, most observations were limited to one season or one stream section. In this study, we monitored the movement of juvenile coho salmon throughout their period of residence in a coastal basin to identify prevalent dispersal strategies and their relationships with body mass, growth rates and survival. Our results revealed seasonally and spatially variable movement patterns. Juvenile coho salmon that dispersed to tidally affected reaches soon after emergence remained more mobile and expressed lower site fidelity than those individuals that remained in upper riverine reaches. We did not detect significantly different growth rates between sedentary and mobile individuals. Although a greater proportion of sedentary than mobile fish survived winter to emigrate from the creek in the spring, reach of residence at the onset of winter influenced these survival estimates. Hence, apparent summer‐to‐smolt survival for mobile individuals was greater than for sedentary fish in tidally influenced reaches, whereas in riverine reaches the sedentary strategy seemed to be favoured. Our research identified complex movement patterns that reflect phenotypic and life history variation, and underscores the importance of maintaining diverse freshwater and estuarine habitats that support juvenile coho salmon before marine migration.
Cryptic termites avoid predatory ants by eavesdropping on vibrational cues from their footsteps
Authors: Oberst Sebastian , Bann Glen , Lai Joseph C.S. , Evans Theodore A.
Published: January 2017

Eavesdropping has evolved in many predator–prey relationships. Communication signals of social species may be particularly vulnerable to eavesdropping, such as pheromones produced by ants, which are predators of termites. Termites communicate mostly by way of substrate‐borne vibrations, which suggest they may be able to eavesdrop, using two possible mechanisms: ant chemicals or ant vibrations. We observed termites foraging within millimetres of ants in the field, suggesting the evolution of specialised detection behaviours. We found the termite Coptotermes acinaciformis detected their major predator, the ant Iridomyrmex purpureus, through thin wood using only vibrational cues from walking, and not chemical signals. Comparison of 16 termite and ant species found the ants‐walking signals were up to 100 times higher than those of termites. Eavesdropping on passive walking signals explains the predator detection and foraging behaviours in this ancient relationship, which may be applicable to many other predator–prey relationships.
QTc interval in patients with multiple sclerosis: an inference from the insula of Reil?
Authors: Turri G. , Calabrese M. , Pancheri E. , Monaco S. , Gajofatto A. , Marafioti V.
Published: January 2017

Background and purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between the duration of the QTc interval and the brain lesion load at the level of the structures involved in superior autonomic control (insula, cingulate cortex and amygdala‐hippocampus) in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.

Methods

Thirty‐one consecutive patients with relapsing−remitting MS were recruited. The QT interval was measured manually in all 12 leads by a single blinded observer, with the longest QT value adjusted for heart rate by using the Bazett's formula. All patients performed a brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan including three‐dimensional double inversion recovery and three volumetric fast‐field echo sequences. The following MRI measures were obtained: (i) global and regional cortical thickness (CTh); (ii) white matter lesion load volume; (iii) cortical damage blindly assessed by a trained observer who assigned, on the basis of the number of cortical lesions, a score from 0 to 5 for each of the brain areas analysed.

Results

In all, 16% of the patients had an increased QTc interval. The QTc interval was correlated with disease duration, cortical insular lesion volume and grey matter lesion volume in the three examined areas and inversely correlated with global and insular CTh.

Conclusions

An increased QTc interval in patients with MS may have a cerebral origin possibly driven by involvement of the insular cortex. With the recent introduction in clinical practice of treatments with potential cardiac effects such as fingolimod, the recognition of a long QTc interval could be clinically crucial and should encourage appropriate electrocardiographic monitoring in order to prevent the risk of malignant ventricular pro‐arrhythmia and iatrogenic sudden death.
The role of executive functioning in memory performance in pediatric focal epilepsy
Authors: Sepeta Leigh N. , Casaletto Kaitlin Blackstone , Terwilliger Virginia , Facella‐Ervolini Joy , Sady Maegan , Mayo Jessica , Gaillard William D. , Berl Madison M.
Published: January 2017

Objective

Learning and memory are essential for academic success and everyday functioning, but the pattern of memory skills and its relationship to executive functioning in children with focal epilepsy is not fully delineated. We address a gap in the literature by examining the relationship between memory and executive functioning in a pediatric focal epilepsy population.

Methods

Seventy children with focal epilepsy and 70 typically developing children matched on age, intellectual functioning, and gender underwent neuropsychological assessment, including measures of intelligence (Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence [WASI]/Differential Ability Scales [DAS]), as well as visual Children's Memory Scale (CMS Dot Locations) and verbal episodic memory (Wide Range Assessment of Memory and Learning [WRAML] Story Memory and California Verbal Learning Test for Children [CVLT‐C]). Executive functioning was measured directly (WISC‐IV Digit Span Backward; Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals, Fourth Edition (CELF‐IV) Recalling Sentences) and by parent report (Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function [BRIEF]).

Results

Children with focal epilepsy had lower delayed free‐recall scores than controls across visual and verbal memory tasks (p = 0.02; partial η2 = 0.12). In contrast, recognition memory performance was similar for patients and controls (p = 0.36; partial η2 = 0.03). Children with focal epilepsy demonstrated difficulties in working memory (p = 0.02; partial η2 = 0.08) and planning/organization (p = 0.02) compared to controls. Working memory predicted 9–19% of the variance in delayed free recall for verbal and visual memory; organization predicted 9–10% of the variance in verbal memory. Patients with both left and right focal epilepsy demonstrated more difficulty on verbal versus visual tasks (p = 0.002). Memory performance did not differ by location of seizure foci (temporal vs. extratemporal, frontal vs. extrafrontal).

Significance

Children with focal epilepsy demonstrated memory ability within age‐level expectations, but delayed free recall was inefficient compared to typically developing controls. Memory difficulties were not related to general cognitive impairment or seizure localization. Executive functioning accounted for significant variance in memory performance, suggesting that poor executive control negatively influences memory retrieval.
Does sleep benefit memory consolidation in children with focal epilepsy?
Authors: Chan Samantha , Pressler Ronit , Boyd Stewart G. , Baldeweg Torsten , Cross J. Helen
Published: January 2017

Objective

Children with epilepsy have high rates of both cognitive impairment and sleep disruption. It is thus assumed that sleep‐dependent memory consolidation is vulnerable to ongoing epileptic activity, but direct evidence of this is limited.

Methods

We performed a within‐subject comparison of memory retention across intervals of wake or overnight sleep. Healthy children (n = 21, 6–16 years, 12 female) and children with focal epilepsy (n = 22, 6–16 years, 9 female) performed verbal and visuospatial memory tasks under each condition. Sleep was assessed with electroencephalography (EEG) polysomnography during the overnight interval. Interictal discharges were quantified manually.

Results

Memory retention was greater in the sleep condition in both the verbal (F1,39 = 10.8, p = 0.002, Cohen's d = 0.67) and the visuospatial (F1,36 = 4.23, p = 0.05, Cohen's d = 0.40) tasks, with no significant interaction of group by condition in either task. Across the total sample, gain in memory retention with sleep in the verbal task correlated with duration of slow wave sleep (r = 0.4, p = 0.01). In patients, sleep‐dependent memory consolidation was negatively correlated with interictal discharge rate in both the verbal (ρ = −0.49, p = 0.04) and visuospatial (ρ = −0.45, p = 0.08) tasks. On post hoc analysis, a longer history of epilepsy (r = 0.53, p = 0.01) and a temporal (t10 = 1.8, p = 0.1, Cohen's d = 0.86) rather than an extratemporal seizure focus (t10 = 0.8, p = 0.4, Cohen's d = 0.30) was associated with greater contribution of sleep to verbal memory retention.

Significance

We have demonstrated that memory consolidation in children with focal epilepsy benefits from sleep, showing the same correlation with slow wave sleep as in healthy children, but an inverse relationship with the interictal discharge load during sleep. This mechanism appears to be increasingly recruited with longer duration of illness, indicating a resilient homeostatic function which may be harnessed to aid learning.
Test performance study of isothermal amplification tests for the detection of Grapevine flavescence dorée phytoplasma and ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma solani’
Authors: Mehle N. , Kogovšek P. , Constable F. , De Jonghe K. , Loiseau M. , Veratti F. , Marzachi C. , Ferretti L. , Angelini E. , Filippin L. , Sousa E. , Andrade E. , Hodgetts J. , Dickinson M. , Dermastia M.
Published: January 2017

This test performance study (TPS) was carried out on DNA samples from grapevine, clematis, fungi and bacteria to compare and validate loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) tests for detection of Grapevine flavescence dorée phytoplasma and ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma solani’ (Grapevine Bois noir phytoplasma). Two LAMP tests, for Grapevine flavescence dorée phytoplasma and ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma solani’ (as developed by Kogovšek and colleagues), with proven applicability for rapid laboratory or on‐site detection were included in this study. They were performed in 10 laboratories. In addition, the commercial Qualiplante/Hyris isothermal amplification test for Grapevine flavescence dorée phytoplasma was performed in three laboratories. The accuracy of the three tests was shown to be over 98%. Moreover, the high accuracy of these tests, which used different devices across different laboratories, confirmed their reproducibility.
Measurement and visualization of face‐to‐face interaction among community‐dwelling older adults using wearable sensors
Authors: Masumoto Kouhei , Yaguchi Takaharu , Matsuda Hiroshi , Tani Hideaki , Tozuka Keisuke , Kondo Narihiko , Okada Shuichi
Published: January 2017

Aim

A number of interventions have been undertaken to develop and promote social networks among community‐dwelling older adults. However, it has been difficult to examine the effects of these interventions, because of problems in assessing interactions. The present study was designed to quantitatively measure and visualize face‐to‐face interactions among elderly participants in an exercise program. We also examined relationships among interactional variables, personality and interest in community involvement, including interactions with the local community.

Methods

Older adults living in the same community were recruited to participate in an exercise program that consisted of four sessions. We collected data on face‐to‐face interactions of the participants by using a wearable sensor technology device.

Results

Network analysis identified the communication networks of participants in the exercise program, as well as changes in these networks. Additionally, there were significant correlations between the number of people involved in face‐to‐face interactions and changes in both interest in community involvement and interactions with local community residents, as well as personality traits, including agreeableness.

Conclusions

Social networks in the community are essential for solving problems caused by the aging society. We showed the possible applications of face‐to‐face interactional data for identifying core participants having many interactions, and isolated participants having only a few interactions within the community. Such data would be useful for carrying out efficient interventions for increasing participants’ involvement with their community. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 1752–1758.
Response of faults to climate‐induced changes of ice sheets, glaciers and lakes
Authors: Hampel Andrea
Published: January 2017

Glacial–interglacial cycles are characterized by strong variations in climatic conditions, which affect the size of continental ice sheets, glaciers and lakes. Such climate‐triggered fluctuations in ice and water masses lead to transient stresses in the Earth's crust, which can be large enough to affect the slip behaviour of faults. In particular, postglacial unloading may increase the slip rate of active faults or re‐activate dormant faults. In the past, numerical modelling has helped to better understand the response of faults to mass fluctuations on Earth's surface. This article provides an overview of the mechanisms and controlling parameters of climate‐induced variations in fault slip as derived from the numerical models. Geological records of postglacial faulting from Scandinavia, the European Alps and the Basin‐and‐Range Province (western USA) are presented. Taken together, modelling and case studies provide a basis for evaluating the future seismic potential in regions that are currently experiencing ice loss or lake regression.
Making economic evaluations more helpful for treatment choices in haemophilia
Authors: Drummond M. , Houwing N. , Slothuus U. , Giangrande P.
Published: January 2017

Aim

Poorly conducted economic evaluations have the potential to mislead both clinicians, leading to inappropriate treatment choices, and payers who must decide on the reimbursement of treatment costs. This paper reviews the methods used in economic evaluations in haemophilia and proposes standards for conducting and reporting such evaluations in the future.

Methods

A systematic review of economic evaluations in haemophilia published since 2008 was conducted. The reporting and methods of the studies were assessed using the recently published Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Guidelines (CHEERS) checklist. The key methodological deficiencies in the studies were recorded.

Results

Twenty‐one studies met the inclusion criteria, classified as follows: prophylaxis vs. treatment on‐demand (five studies); use of bypassing therapy (six); immune tolerance induction (four); and other topics (six). In general, the quality of reporting was good. However, it was poorest for the CHEERS item of patient heterogeneity, with most studies lacking discussion of heterogeneity in the patient population. The main recurring methodological deficiencies were the evaluation of single episodes of care rather than entire treatment strategies; inadequate control for confounders when comparing treatment options; the frequent use of expert opinion to determine drug doses and treatment patterns; lack of consideration of patient heterogeneity; failure to identify patient subgroups; and the inadequate exploration of uncertainty in estimates.

Conclusions

A set of 12 standards for future reporting and conduct of economic evaluations within haemophilia is proposed, with the objective of making such evaluations more relevant and reliable for those making treatment and reimbursement decisions in the future.
HFE gene mutation is a risk factor for tissue iron accumulation in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Turkmen Ercan , Yildirim Tolga , Yilmaz Rahmi , Hazirolan Tuncay , Eldem Gonca , Yilmaz Engin , Aybal Kutlugun Aysun , Altindal Mahmut , Altun Bulent
Published: January 2017

Introduction:HFE gene mutations are responsible from iron overload in general population. Studies in hemodialysis patients investigated the effect of presence of HFE gene mutations on serum ferritin and transferrin saturation (TSAT) with conflicting results. However effect of HFE mutations on iron overload in hemodialysis patients was not previously extensively studied.

Methods:36 hemodialysis patients (age 51.3 ± 15.6, (18/18) male/female) and 44 healthy control subjects included in this cross sectional study. Hemoglobin, ferritin, TSAT in the preceding 2 years were recorded. Iron and erythropoietin (EPO) administered during this period were calculated. Iron accumulation in heart and liver was detected by MRI. Relationship between HFE gene mutation, hemoglobin, iron parameters and EPO doses, and tissue iron accumulation were determined.

Findings:Iron overload was detected in nine (25%) patients. Hemoglobin, iron parameters, weekly EPO doses, and monthly iron doses of patients with and without iron overload were similar. There was no difference between control group and hemodialysis patients with respect to the prevalence of HFE gene mutations. Iron overload was detected in five of eight patients who had HFE gene mutations, but iron overload was present in 4 of 28 patients who had no mutations (P = 0.01). Hemoglobin, iron parameters, erythropoietin, and iron doses were similar in patients with and without gene mutations. HFE gene mutations remained the main determinant of iron overload after multivariate logistic regression analysis (P = 0.02; OR, 11.6).

Discussion:Serum iron parameters were not adequate to detect iron overload and HFE gene mutation was found to be an important risk factor for iron accumulation.
Surgical treatment of renal cell carcinoma: Can morphological features of inferior vena cava tumor thrombus on computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging be a prognostic factor?
Authors: Choi Don Kyoung , Jeon Hwang Gyun , Jeong Chang Wook , Kwak Cheol , Song Cheryn , Chung Jinsoo , Hong Sung Kyu , Hong Sung‐Hoo , Seo Seong Il ,   the Korean Renal Cancer Study Group
Published: January 2017

Objectives

To evaluate the impact of morphological features of inferior vena cava thrombus on the overall survival and cancer‐specific survival (cancer‐specific survival of patients with renal cell carcinoma).

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the records of 156 renal cell carcinoma patients with inferior vena cava thrombus who underwent radical nephrectomy and thrombectomy from 1998 to 2013 at five tertiary centers. Inferior vena cava thrombi were classified as spherical (type I) and spiculated (type II) according to morphological features on computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Multivariate cox regression models were used to quantify the impact of prognostic factors on overall survival and cancer‐specific survival.

Results

Type I was found in 29 patients (18.6%), and type II in 127 patients (81.4%). Median follow up was 38.2 months (interquartile range 12–57). Demographic characteristics were not significantly different, except for the cranial thrombus height (P = 0.003). On multivariate analysis, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance score, clinical tumor size, distant metastasis, histologic subtype, thrombus morphology and remnant venous thrombus significantly affected overall survival in pNanyMany patients (all P < 0.05). Among the pNO/XMO patients, clinical tumor size, histologic subtype, thrombus morphology and remnant venous thrombus significantly affected overall survival (all P < 0.05). In terms of cancer‐specific survival, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance score, clinical tumor size, distant metastasis, histologic subtype and thrombus morphology significantly affected cancer‐specific survival in pNanyMany patients (all P < 0.05). In patients with pNO/XMO, body mass index, clinical tumor size, histological subtype, thrombus morphology and remnant venous thrombus significantly affected cancer‐specific survival (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Clinical tumor size, histological subtype, and thrombus morphology are independent predictors of overall survival and cancer‐specific survival in renal cell carcinoma patients with inferior vena cava thrombus. These factors might be helpful for the surgeon's determination to improve therapeutic efficacy.
Nerve growth factor: a neuroimmune crosstalk mediator for all seasons
Authors: Skaper Stephen D.
Published: January 2017

Neurotrophic factors comprise a broad family of biomolecules – most of which are peptides or small proteins – that support the growth, survival and differentiation of both developing and mature neurons. The prototypical example and best‐characterized neurotrophic factor is nerve growth factor (NGF), which is widely recognized as a target‐derived factor responsible for the survival and maintenance of the phenotype of specific subsets of peripheral neurons and basal forebrain cholinergic nuclei during development and maturation. In addition to being active in a wide array of non‐nervous system cells, NGF is also synthesized by a range of cell types not considered as classical targets for innervation by NGF‐dependent neurons; these include cells of the immune‐haematopoietic lineage and populations in the brain involved in neuroendocrine functions. NGF concentrations are elevated in numerous inflammatory and autoimmune states such as multiple sclerosis, chronic arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus and mastocytosis, in conjunction with increased accumulation of mast cells. Intriguingly, NGF seems to be linked also with diabetic pathology and insulin homeostasis. Mast cells and NGF appear involved in neuroimmune interactions and tissue inflammation. As mast cells are capable of producing and responding to NGF, this suggests that alterations in mast cell behaviour could provoke maladaptive neuroimmune tissue responses, including those of an autoimmune nature. Moreover, NGF exerts a modulatory role on sensory nociceptive nerve physiology in the adult, which appears to correlate with hyperalgesic phenomena occurring in tissue inflammation. NGF can therefore be viewed as a multifactorial modulator of neuro–immune–endocrine functions.
Associated use of silicone–vitamin E gauzes and α‐tocopherol acetate oil in healing of skin graft donor sites
Authors: Stanizzi Antonio , Bottoni Manuela , Tartaglione Caterina , Bolletta Elisa , Benedetto Giovanni Di
Published: January 2017

Split‐thickness skin graft is one of the most used procedures in plastic surgery. This procedure involves numerous painful dressings at the donor site. α‐Tocopherol acetate has anti‐oxidative and anti‐inflammatory properties and it can reduce the local bacterial growth, thereby promoting wound healing. We designed a prospective study to evaluate the effects of two different kinds of dressings at skin graft donor sites. A total of 30 patients were subjected to daily dressings with α‐tocopherol acetate oil and traditional moist gauzes (group 1). Another 30 patients were subjected to dressings every 4 days with α‐tocopherol acetate oil and silicone–vitamin E gauzes (group 2). Healing time, infection rate, patient's pain perception and costs were evaluated in both the groups. No statistically significant difference was found in terms of healing time. The infection rate was slightly different in the two groups. Significant reduction of pain perception was detected in group 2. In the same group, significant reduction in the total cost of the treatment was also observed. α‐Tocopherol acetate oil and silicone–vitamin E gauzes may represent a safe, simple, painless and inexpensive method for improving skin graft donor site healing.
Dietary and nutrition interventions for the therapeutic treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis: a systematic review
Authors: Campagnolo N. , Johnston S. , Collatz A. , Staines D. , Marshall‐Gradisnik S.
Published: January 2017

Background

Chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) is characterised by unexplained fatigue for at least 6 months accompanied by a diverse but consistent set of symptoms. Diet modification and nutritional supplements could be used to improve patient outcomes, such fatigue and quality of life. We reviewed and discussed the evidence for nutritional interventions that may assist in alleviating symptoms of CFS/ME.

Methods

Medline, Cinahl and Scopus were systematically searched from 1994 to May 2016. All studies on nutrition intervention were included where CFS/ME patients modified their diet or supplemented their habitual diet on patient‐centred outcomes (fatigue, quality of life, physical activity and/or psychological wellbeing).

Results

Seventeen studies were included that meet the inclusion criteria. Of these, 14 different interventions were investigated on study outcomes. Many studies did not show therapeutic benefit on CFS/ME. Improvements in fatigue were observed for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydride (NADH), probiotics, high cocoa polyphenol rich chocolate, and a combination of NADH and coenzyme Q10.

Conclusions

This review identified insufficient evidence for the use of nutritional supplements and elimination or modified diets to relieve CFS/ME symptoms. Studies were limited by the number of studies investigating the interventions, small sample sizes, study duration, variety of instruments used, and studies not reporting dietary intake method. Further research is warranted in homogeneous CFS/ME populations.
Glycomacropeptide in children with phenylketonuria: does its phenylalanine content affect blood phenylalanine control?
Authors: Daly A. , Evans S. , Chahal S. , Santra S. , MacDonald A.
Published: January 2017

Background

In phenylketonuria (PKU), there are no data available for children with respect to evaluating casein glycomacropeptide (CGMP) as an alternative to phenylalanine‐free protein substitutes [Phe‐free L‐amino acid (AA)]. CGMP contains a residual amount of phenylalanine, which may alter blood phenylalanine control.

Methods

In a prospective 6‐month pilot study, we investigated the effect on blood phenylalanine control of CGMP‐amino acid (CGMP‐AA) protein substitute in 22 PKU subjects (13 boys, nine girls), median age (range) 11 years (6–16 years). Twelve received CGMP‐AA and nine received Phe‐free L‐AA, (1 CGMP‐AA withdrawal). Subjects partially or wholly replaced Phe‐free L‐AA with CGMP‐AA. If blood phenylalanine exceeded the target range, the CGMP‐AA dose was reduced and replaced with Phe‐free L‐amino acids. The control group remained on Phe‐free L‐AAs. Phenylalanine, tyrosine and Phe : Tyr ratio concentrations were compared with the results for the previous year.

Results

In the CGMP‐AA group, there was a significant increase in blood phenylalanine concentrations (pre‐study, 275 μmol L−1; CGMP‐AA, 317 μmol L−1; P = 0.02), a decrease in tyrosine concentrations (pre‐study, 50 μmol L−1; CGMP‐AA, 40 μmol L−1; P = 0.03) and an increase in Phe : Tyr ratios (pre‐study, Phe : Tyr 4.9:1; CGMP‐AA, Phe : Tyr 8:1; P = 0.02). In the control group there was a non‐significant fall in phenylalanine concentrations (pre‐study 325μmol/L: study 280μmol/L [p = 0.9], and no significant changes for tyrosine or phe/tyr ratios [p = 0.9]. Children taking the CGMP‐AA found it more acceptable to L‐AA.

Conclusions

Blood phenylalanine control declined with CGMP‐AA but, by titrating the dose of CGMP‐AA, blood phenylalanine control remained within target range. The additional intake of phenylalanine may have contributed to the change in blood phenylalanine concentration. CGMP‐AA use requires careful monitoring in children.
A Systematic Review on the Effectiveness of Interventions to Improve Hand Hygiene Compliance of Nurses in the Hospital Setting
Authors: RN Olena Doronina , Jones Denise , Martello Marianna , Biron Alain , Lavoie‐Tremblay Mélanie
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of the present systematic review is to identify the interventions that improve hand hygiene compliance (HHC) specifically among nurses.

Methods

A systematic review was performed guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses to evaluate the short and long‐term effects of interventions to promote hand hygiene practices among nurses in the hospital setting. A search of the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Medline Global Health, and Embase was conducted in addition to studies identified by the most recent systematic review. Six studies met inclusion criteria: three randomized controlled trials (RCTs), one controlled before and after studies (CBAs), and two interrupted times series (ITS).

Findings

One RCT reported effectiveness and 6‐month sustainability of the effect related to multimodal‐directed and multimodal with team leadership–directed strategies. The other two RCTs found positive effect of education and feedback on compliance; however, compliance rates declined after 1 month. Education was also found to improve HHC up to 3 months postintervention. An electronic reminder and feedback system evaluated by an ITS improved HHC and detected variation in HHC through the day.

Conclusions

This review showed that single and combined interventions do improve hand hygiene practices among nurses; however, there is a need for more methodologically robust studies to define the most effective and sustainable interventions.

Clinical Relevance

Although hand hygiene is the most effective measure to prevent healthcare‐associated infections, compliance with hand hygiene remains low. Nurses are among the healthcare providers who spend the most time in direct patient contact. Therefore, there is a need for research to identify the interventions that improve HHC in this group.
Dyadic characteristics of guanxi and their consequences
Authors: Barbalet Jack
Published: January 2017

Research on guanxi is conducted principally within the disciplines of anthropology, business studies and sociology. It typically takes the form of empirical case studies, applications of extrinsic theory and literature reviews cum trend reports. The present paper, on the other hand, provides an analysis of guanxi in consideration of its elemental relations, components and properties. Discussion indicates the limitations of treatments of guanxi in terms of trust, guanxi bases, tie‐strength and the conveyance of influence and information. Having established the characteristic features of guanxi discussion then turns to how it may be an option or choice of commitment for persons and groups in contemporary China, its form and role in marketized exchanges, and how the efficiency of guanxi may be characterized.
The role of interleukin‐27 in predicting spontaneous HBeAg seroconversion in chronic hepatitis B infection
Authors: Li Jie , Mak Lung‐Yi , Wong Danny Ka‐Ho , Fung James , Seto Wai‐Kay , Lai Ching‐Lung , Yuen Man‐Fung
Published: January 2017

Background and Aims

Hepatitis B e seroconversion, associated with preceding hepatic inflammation, marks the transition from immune active to residual phase in the natural disease history of chronic hepatitis B. Recently, interleukin‐27 has been reported to be associated with hepatic inflammation in hepatitis B infection. We aimed to evaluate the role of interleukin‐27 in predicting spontaneous e seroconversion in chronic hepatitis B.

Methods

A total of 142 treatment‐naive hepatitis B patients with positive e antigen were recruited. Interleukin‐27, hepatitis B viral DNA levels and liver function parameters, were measured on presentation. Patients who had spontaneous e seroconversion within 3 years of follow‐up were compared with those without e seroconversion within the same period of time. Factors predictive of spontaneous e seroconversion were identified.

Results

Of the 142 patients (M:F=80:62, median age: 31), 44 (31%) had spontaneous e seroconversion within 3 years of follow‐up. Multivariate analyses revealed that younger age, lower viral DNA and lower interleukin‐27 levels on presentation independently predicted spontaneous e seroconversion: the rate was significantly higher in patients aged <31 (OR: 11.022, 95% CI: 3.658‐33.205; P<.001), viral DNA <5 log IU/mL (OR: 2.311, 95% CI: 1.049‐5.091; P=.038) and interleukin‐27 <67.3 pg/mL (OR: 3.276, 95% CI: 1.257‐8.536; P=.015). Among patients with all these three favourable factors on presentation, 77% of them underwent spontaneous e seroconversion within 3 years.

Conclusions

Low interleukin‐27 levels were associated with early e seroconversion. The combination of baseline interleukin‐27 <67.3 pg/mL and viral DNA <5 log IU/mL in young patients was useful for predicting early spontaneous e seroconversion in treatment‐naïve chronic hepatitis B patients.
Nomenclatural notes on Nadsoniella and the human opportunist black yeast genus Exophiala
Authors: Moussa Tarek A. A. , Al‐Zahrani Hassan S. , Kadasa Naif M. S. , Moreno Leandro F. , Gerrits van den Ende A. H. G. , de Hoog G. Sybren , Al‐Hatmi Abdullah M. S.
Published: January 2017

The opportunistic black yeast are particularly known through the genus Exophiala, characterised by annellidic budding cells. However, this phenotype is polyphyletic within the order Chaetothyriales. Seventeen generic names are available in the family Herpotrichiellaceae, one of which is Exophiala. Future taxonomy will be based on molecular phylogeny; each multi‐species clade may qualify for one of these names. This paper focuses on the genus Nadsoniella, which is the oldest valid name in the Herpotrichiellaceae. Despite its exophiala‐like phenotype, the type species of Nadsoniella clusters in the jeanselmei‐clade, competing with the sympodial genus Rhinocladiella. In contrast, Exophiala competes with morphologically pronounced genera Thysanorea and Veronaea. Replacing the current phenotypic system for phylogenetic nomenclature requires highly stable phylogenies, which currently are not available.
Sporadic inclusion body myositis – a myodegenerative disease or an inflammatory myopathy
Authors: Weihl C. C. , Mammen A. L.
Published: January 2017

Sporadic inclusion body myositis (sIBM) is an insidious late‐onset progressive myopathy that typically affects patients over the age of 50. Clinically, patients develop a characteristic pattern of weakness that affects the forearm flexors and knee extensors. Muscle biopsy, often utilized in the diagnosis, demonstrates a chronic myopathy with mixed pathologies harbouring intramyofiber protein inclusions and endomysial inflammation. The co‐existence of these pathologic features (that is, inflammation and protein aggregation) has divided the field of sIBM research into two opposing (albeit slowly unifying) camps regarding disease pathogenesis. The present review explores the recent evidence supporting these distinct pathogenic mechanisms. Future therapies that are designed to target both aspects of sIBM pathologies will likely be necessary to treat sIBM.
Meaningful Materials? Bone Artefacts and Symbolism in the Early Bronze Age Aegean
Authors: Isaakidou Valasia
Published: January 2017

The symbolically laden use of materials is well documented ethnographically but hard to demonstrate archaeologically, especially for animal bones and teeth, use of which in post‐Neolithic contexts is commonly considered expedient. Early Bronze Age southern Aegean mortuary assemblages have yielded three distinctive classes of bone artefact. Comparison with contemporary unworked bone assemblages and contextually or formally related objects in other materials reveals complex cultural associations, the symbolic meaning of which is explored through heuristic use of ethnographic analogues. It is concluded that alternative value systems operated alongside those structured around exoticism and technological sophistication, usually deployed to understand EBA southern Aegean cultures.
Transient Neonatal Zinc Deficiency Caused by a Novel Mutation in the SLC30A2 Gene
Authors: Liew Hui M. , Tan Colin W. , Ho Clement K. M. , Chee Jade N. , Koh Mark J. A.
Published: January 2017

This is a case report of a 4‐month‐old full‐term, fully breastfed boy who presented with a persistent periorificial and groin rash associated with poor weight gain and irritability. His serum zinc level was low. The mother's breast milk zinc level was found to be low despite her serum zinc levels being normal, confirming the diagnosis of transient neonatal zinc deficiency. Mutational analysis revealed a novel mutation in the mother's SLC30A2 gene, which encodes a zinc transporter expressed in mammary gland epithelial cells.
Dermoscopy of Papular Epidermal Nevus with Skyline Basal Cell Layer
Authors: Balestri Riccardo , Rizzoli Laura , Rech Giulia , Girardelli Carlo Renè
Published: January 2017

Papular epidermal nevus with skyline basal cell layer (PENS) is a newly described keratinocytic nevus whose dermoscopic characteristics have not been clarified. We used a dermatoscope to investigate the multiple PENSs of a patient with PENS syndrome. All the lesions shared a common dermoscopic homogeneous white pattern surrounded by peripheral, slightly dotted hyperpigmentation. The smallest lesions had no other features, whereas the largest lesions had some scaling, directly proportional to their dimension, and a central, clear, pink discoloration.