bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antifibrotic effect of AT‐1 blocker and statin in rats with hepatic fibrosis
Authors: El‐Ashmawy Nahla E , El‐Bahrawy Hoda A , Shamloula Maha M , Ibrahim Amera O
Published: July 2015

Hepatic fibrosis is an outcome of chronic liver injury. Angiotensin II (ANG II) may play a role in the pathogenesis of hepatic fibrosis. Certain drugs such as ACE inhibitors, ANG II antagonists, and even statins could interfere with the renin angiotensin system and modulate its deleterious effects. This study was carried out to investigate the possible role of losartan and atorvastatin in liver fibrosis. Liver fibrosis was induced in rats by i.p. injection of 50% CCl4 twice per week for 8 weeks. The rats intoxicated with CCl4 were divided into four groups: fibrosis control; losartan group; atorvastatin group; and co‐treated group. A fifth group of normal healthy rats served as a control group. The results showed that losartan and atorvastatin, either alone or in combination, significantly decreased ALT, AST, hyaluronic acid and hydroxyproline levels in their groups compared to those of the fibrosis control group. A significant decrease in TGF‐β was found in the losartan and co‐treated groups but not in the atorvastatin group. These biochemical data were supported by liver histopathology and α‐SMA. The results indicate that the combined treatment with both losartan and atorvastatin produced a greater effect than either drug alone and proved a beneficial role in inhibiting or reversing liver fibrosis.
Targeting transgene to the heart and liver with AAV9 by different promoters
Authors: Chen Bang‐Dang , He Chun‐Hui , Chen Xiao‐Cui , Pan Shuo , Liu Fen , Ma Xiang , Li Xiao‐Mei , Gai Min‐Tao , Tao Jing , Ma Yi‐Tong , Yang Yi‐Ning , Gao Xiao‐Ming
Published: July 2015

Adeno‐associated virus (AAV) has become one of the most promising gene transfer tools for gene therapy. This work aims to evaluate tropism, gene transfer efficiency and safety of AAV9 vectors produced with recombinant baculovirus (rBac)‐based system. AAV9‐CMV‐GFP and AAV9‐CBA‐GFP were produced using a rBac system, 1 × 1011 particles of each vectors were administered intravenously (i.v.) into mice and animals were killed at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 8 weeks after administration. The GFP expression in different organs was analyzed by fluorescence imaging and Western blot. Viral genomic quantities were measured using qPCR. In vitro transduction efficiency of AAV9 vectors in primary cardiomyocytes and hepatocytes was determined by flow cytometry. Toxicity of AAV9 vectors was evaluated by determining certain cardiac and liver injury biomarkers and renal function test in vivo and TUNEL analysis in vitro. The data showed that AAV9 viral particles packaged by the rBac system were fully functional in vivo and in vitro. The CMV promoter predominantly induced higher cardiac GFP transgene expression and DNA copy numbers while the CBA promoter resulted in robust GFP expression and high vector DNA copy numbers in mouse liver, both in a time‐dependent increased manner. Such distinct preferential effects were also observed in the heart and liver as early as 3 and 5 days after co‐infection. Both the AAV9‐CMV and AAV9‐CBA viral packages did not induce heart, liver and renal damage and cell apoptosis. These results indicated that AAV9‐CMV can efficiently and safely direct cardiac gene transfer, whereas AAV9‐CBA is preferential for liver gene delivery.
Impacts of parent‐implemented early‐literacy intervention for Spanish‐speaking children with language impairment
Authors: Pratt Amy S. , Justice Laura M. , Perez Ashanty , Duran Lillian K.
Published: July 2015

Background

Children with language impairment (LI) often have lags in development of print knowledge, an important early‐literacy skill. This study explores impacts of a print‐focused intervention for Spanish‐speaking children with LI in Southeastern Mexico.

Aims

Aims were twofold. First, we sought to describe the print knowledge (print‐concept knowledge, alphabet knowledge) of Spanish‐speaking children with LI. Second, we determined the extent to which print‐referencing intervention delivered by children's parents could improve print knowledge.

Methods & Procedures

Using a pre‐test–post‐test delayed treatment research design, 13 parent–child dyads were assigned to an intervention (n = 8) versus control (n = 5) condition. Children were drawn from a speech–language clinic and all were receiving services for LI. Caregivers in the intervention group implemented an 8‐week home‐reading programme following a systematic scope and sequence for improving children's print knowledge.

Outcomes & Results

Children showed individual differences in their print knowledge based on three baseline measures examining print‐concept knowledge, alphabet knowledge and letter‐sound knowledge. Those whose caregivers implemented the 8‐week programme showed statistically and practically significant gains on two of the three measures over the intervention period.

Conclusions & Implications

The results presented here may stimulate future research on the print knowledge of Spanish‐speaking children with LI. Sources of individual differences are important to determine. Caregivers may use the intervention presented here as a potential avenue for improving children's print knowledge.
Terroir is a key driver of seed‐associated microbial assemblages
Authors: Klaedtke Stephanie , Jacques Marie‐Agnès , Raggi Lorenzo , Préveaux Anne , Bonneau Sophie , Negri Valeria , Chable Véronique , Barret Matthieu
Published: July 2015

Seeds have evolved in association with diverse microbial assemblages that may influence plant growth and health. However, little is known about the composition of seed‐associated microbial assemblages and the ecological processes shaping their structures. In this work, we monitored the relative influence of the host genotypes and terroir on the structure of the seed microbiota through metabarcoding analysis of different microbial assemblages associated to five different bean cultivars harvested in two distinct farms. Overall, few bacterial and fungal operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were conserved across all seed samples. The lack of shared OTUs between samples is explained by a significant effect of the farm site on the structure of microbial assemblage, which explained 12.2% and 39.7% of variance in bacterial and fungal diversity across samples. This site‐specific effect is reflected by the significant enrichment of 70 OTUs in Brittany and 88 OTUs in Luxembourg that lead to differences in co‐occurrence patterns. In contrast, variance in microbial assemblage structure was not explained by host genotype. Altogether, these results suggest that seed‐associated microbial assemblage is determined by niche‐based processes and that the terroir is a key driver of these selective forces.
The Politics of Post‐Suburban Densification in Canada and France
Authors: Charmes Eric , Keil Roger
Published: July 2015

This debate specifically focuses on densification as a particular dimension of (post‐) suburbanization. In the introduction, we discuss densification, along with ‘compactness' and ‘intensification', conceptual terms that have become buzzwords within urban planning. Objectives associated with these tend to be presented in the literature within a normative framework, structured by a critique of the negative effects attributed to sprawl. The perspective here is different. It is not normative but critical, and articulated around the analysis of political and social issues, related to the transformation of wider metropolitan space. Three main themes are developed: (1) the politics of densification (the environmental arguments favouring densification are highly plastic, and are thus often used to defend projects or initiatives which are actually determined by other agendas); (2) why morphology matters (a similar number of houses or square metres can be established in many different ways, and those different ways have political and social meaning); (3) the diversity of suburban densification regimes (it is not only the landscapes of the suburbs that are diverse, but also the local bodies governing them—between the small residential municipalities of the Paris periurbs and the large inner suburbs of Toronto lies a broad spectrum).
The Politics of Place: Place‐making versus Densification in Toronto's Tower Neighbourhoods
Authors: Poppe Will , Young Douglas
Published: July 2015

Toronto's Tower Neighbourhood Renewal (TR) programme is a municipal government initiative tackling aging high‐rise apartment building clusters in need of physical upgrades. One strategy for a more vibrant future for those clusters is densification or new infill housing. The main argument of the essay is that the unique urban structure of Toronto's inner suburbs challenges the implementation of TR's densification strategy. The proximity of many residents occupying privately owned single‐family homes close to the tower neighbourhoods has implications for the governance of TR in Toronto. Having created place‐frames firmly linked to their own identities as single‐family homeowners, these residents reject an encroachment of the ‘urban' (through higher residential densities) and of the ‘Other' (through a potential increase in low‐income, immigrant and visible minority tower renters). A 2011 design charrette in the Toronto neighbourhood of Weston serves as a case study, exemplifying the tensions between neighbourhood resident place‐frames and the goals of the TR project. This essay is based on an analysis of public policy documents and public participation reports, as well as notes from direct observation during the Weston 2021 Design Charrette.
Maternal group B Streptococcus‐related stillbirth: a systematic review
Authors: Nan C , Dangor Z , Cutland CL , Edwards MS , Madhi SA , Cunnington MC
Published: July 2015

Background

Limited epidemiological data on the association between maternal rectovaginal group B Streptococcus (GBS) colonisation and stillbirth makes assessment of antenatal interventions for GBS stillbirth difficult.

Objectives

To systematically review the existing literature and evaluate the incidence of GBS‐related stillbirth by region up to March 2015.

Search strategy

A systematic review of the published literature was completed using PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS, and Cochrane Library, with Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) and search terms based upon the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Active Bacterial Core Surveillance (ABCs) GBS‐related stillbirth definition and chorioamnionitis.

Selection criteria

Studies reporting original data on GBS‐related stillbirth occurring ≥20 weeks of gestation, with GBS confirmed by autopsy or by culture from the placenta, amniotic fluid, or other normally sterile site samples from the stillborn.

Data collection and analysis

Descriptive analyses were performed with the absolute GBS‐related stillbirth rates and proportion of stillbirths attributed to GBS calculated per study where possible. Differences in stillbirth definitions did not allow for pooled estimates to be calculated.

Main results

Seventeen studies reported GBS‐related stillbirth rates varying from 0.04 to 0.9 per 1000 births, with the proportion of stillbirths associated with GBS ranging from 0 to 12.1%. Most studies reported data from before the year 2000 and from high‐income countries.

Conclusions

The sparsely available epidemiological evidence was not reported consistently, emphasising the importance of standardised stillbirth definitions and diagnostic methods to optimally assess the effectiveness of any future antenatal interventions. Timing of stillbirth, GBS serotype, and global diversity were gaps in the current evidence.

Tweetable abstract

Systematic review finds Group B Streptococcus causes up to 12.1% of stillbirths, but more research is needed.
Evidence supporting see‐and‐treat management of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ebisch RMF , Rovers MM , Bosgraaf RP , van der Pluijm‐Schouten HW , Melchers WJG , van den Akker PAJ , Massuger LFAG , Bekkers RLM
Published: July 2015

Background

Studies of see‐and‐treat management of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) vary in their inclusion criteria, resulting in a broad range of overtreatment rates.

Objectives

To determine overtreatment rates in see‐and‐treat management of women referred for colposcopy because of suspected CIN, in order to define circumstances supporting see‐and‐treat management.

Search strategy

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were searched from inception up to 12 May 2014.

Selection criteria

Studies of see‐and‐treat management in women with a reported cervical smear result, colposcopic impression, and histology result were included.

Data collection and analysis

Methodological quality was assessed with the Newcastle–Ottawa scale. We used the inverse variance method for pooling incidences, and a random‐effects model was used to account for heterogeneity between studies. Overtreatment was defined as treatment in patients with no CIN or CIN1.

Main results

Thirteen studies (n = 4611) were included. The overall overtreatment rate in women with a high‐grade cervical smear and a high‐grade colposcopic impression was 11.6% (95% CI 7.8–15.3%). The overtreatment rate in women with a high‐grade cervical smear and low‐grade colposcopic impression was 29.3% (95% CI 16.7–41.9%), and in the case of a low‐grade smear and high‐grade colposcopic impression it was 46.4% (95% CI 15.7–77.1%). In women with a low‐grade smear and low‐grade colposcopic impression, the overtreatment rate was 72.9% (95% CI 68.1–77.7%).

Author's conclusions

The pooled overtreatment rate in women with a high‐grade smear and high‐grade colposcopic impression is at least comparable with the two‐step procedure, which supports the use of see‐and‐treat management in this subgroup of women.

Tweetable abstract

See‐and‐treat management is justified in the case of a high‐grade smear and a high‐grade colposcopic impression.
Theoretically refining the multiple streams framework: An introduction
Authors: Zohlnhöfer Reimut , Herweg Nicole , Rüb Friedbert
Published: July 2015

This introduction to the forum section on the Multiple Streams Framework (MSF) developed by John W. Kingdon argues that the conditions under which policy making takes place today increasingly resemble the assumptions upon which Kingdon built his lens. At the same time, while the framework is extremely successful with regard to citations and has been applied in various contexts that often differ remarkably from those for which the framework was originally developed, a systematic theoretical debate about the Multiple Streams Framework is still lacking. It is the intention to spark such a debate with this forum section.
Starch Retrogradation: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Wang Shujun , Li Caili , Copeland Les , Niu Qing , Wang Shuo
Published: July 2015

Starch retrogradation is a process in which disaggregated amylose and amylopectin chains in a gelatinized starch paste reassociate to form more ordered structures. Starch retrogradation has been the subject of intensive research over the last 50 years, mainly due to its detrimental effect on the sensory and storage qualities of many starchy foods. However, starch retrogadation is desirable for some starchy food products in terms of textural and nutritional properties. To better understand the effect of starch retrogradation on the quality of starchy foods, measurement methods of starch retrogradation and factors that influence starch retrogradation have been studied extensively. This article provides a comprehensive review of starch retrogradation including the definition of the process, molecular mechanisms of how it occurs, and measurement methods and factors that influence starch retrogradation. The review also discusses the effect of retrogradation on the in vitro enzyme digestibility of starch. Spectroscopic methods such as FTIR and Raman are considered to be very promising in characterizing starch retrogradation at a molecular level, although more studies are needed in the future.
Forensic DNA Analysis of Wheat Flour as Commonly Used in White Powder Cases
Authors: Kikkawa Hitomi S. , Tahara Makoto , Sugita Ritsuko
Published: July 2015

In the wake of terrorist attacks using anthrax and ricin, white powder is often encountered in cases of malicious mischief and terrorist threats. Wheat flour is a common white powder encountered in such criminal investigations. We used DNA analysis to investigate wheat flour samples for identification and discrimination as trace evidence. Species identification of commercially available wheat flour was carried out by sequencing a partial region of the ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase large subunit gene (rbcL). Samples were discriminated using short tandem repeat (STR) analysis. The rbcL sequences of all wheat flour samples were identical and showed a high level of similarity to known wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) sequences. Furthermore, flours had characteristic patterns in STR analyses, with specific cultivars showing distinctive patterns. These results suggested that the identification of wheat flour species is possible using rbcL sequencing, and that STR analysis is useful for discriminating between samples.
Chemical Compositions of Egg Yolks and Egg Quality of Laying Hens Fed Prebiotic, Probiotic, and Synbiotic Diets
Authors: Tang Shirley Gee Hoon , Sieo Chin Chin , Kalavathy Ramasamy , Saad Wan Zuhainis , Yong Su Ting , Wong Hee Kum , Ho Yin Wan
Published: July 2015

A 16‐wk feeding experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of a prebiotic, isomaltooligosaccharide (IMO), a probiotic, PrimaLac®, and their combination as a synbiotic on the chemical compositions of egg yolks and the egg quality of laying hens. One hundred and sixty 16‐wk‐old Hisex Brown pullets were randomly assigned to 4 dietary treatments: (i) basal diet (control), (ii) basal diet + 1% IMO (PRE), (iii) basal diet + 0.1% PrimaLac® (PRO), and (iv) basal diet + 1% IMO + 0.1% PrimaLac® (SYN). PRE, PRO, or SYN supplementation not only significantly (P < 0.05) decreased the egg yolk cholesterol (24‐ and 28‐wk‐old) and total saturated fatty acids (SFA; 28‐, 32‐, and 36‐wk‐old), but also significantly (P < 0.05) increased total unsaturated fatty acids (UFA; 28‐, 32‐, and 36‐wk‐old), total omega 6 and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), including linoleic and alpha‐linolenic acid levels in the eggs (28‐wk‐old). However, the total lipids, carotenoids, and tocopherols in the egg yolks were similar among all dietary treatments in the 24‐, 28‐, 32‐, and 36‐wk‐old hens. Egg quality (Haugh unit, relative weights of the albumen and yolk, specific gravity, shell thickness, and yolk color) was not affected by PRE, PRO, or SYN supplementation. The results indicate that supplementations with IMO and PrimaLac® alone or in combination as a synbiotic might be useful for improving the cholesterol content and modifying the fatty acid compositions of egg yolk without affecting the quality of eggs from laying hens between 24 and 36 wk of age.
Characterization of a 60‐kDa Thermally Stable Antigenic Protein as a Marker for the Immunodetection of Bovine Plasma‐Derived Food Ingredients
Authors: Ofori Jack A. , Hsieh Yun‐Hwa P.
Published: July 2015

A sandwich enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (sELISA) based on 2 monoclonal antibodies (Bb3D6 and Bb6G12) that recognize a 60‐kDa antigenic protein in bovine blood was previously developed for detecting bovine blood in animal feed for the prevention of mad cow disease. This study sought to establish the identity of this 60‐kDa antigenic protein and consequently determine the suitability of the sELISA for detecting bovine plasma‐derived food ingredients (BPFIs), which are widely used in dietary products without explicit labeling. Results from western blot confirmed the 60‐kDa protein to be present in the plasma fraction of bovine blood. Further proteomic analyses involving 2‐dimensional gel electrophoresis (2‐D GE) and amino acid sequencing revealed the 60‐kDa protein to be bovine serum albumin (BSA). The sELISA proved capable of detecting BPFIs in all the commercial dietary supplements tested, including those that were formulated with hydrolyzed BPFIs. The assay could also detect 0.01% and 0.5% of different BPFIs in spiked raw and cooked ground beef, respectively. This assay based on the detection of BSA therefore has the potential to become a valuable analytical tool to protect consumers who avoid consuming BPFIs for religious, health, or ethical reasons.
Effects of Tomato and Soy Germ on Lipid Bioaccumulation and Atherosclerosis in ApoE−/− Mice
Authors: Smith Brendon W. , Miller Rita J. , Wilund Kenneth R. , O'Brien William D. , Erdman John W.
Published: July 2015

Dietary patterns with cardiovascular benefits have been recommended, but the relative contributions of individual foods and food components, alone or in combination, remain undefined. Male ApoE−/− mice were fed either a purified AIN‐93G control diet, a Western diet (WD), or a WD with 10% tomato powder (TP), 2% soy germ (SG), or the combination, for 4 wk (n = 10 per group). Plasma total cholesterol and triglycerides were measured with enzymatic colorimetric kits, and serum amyloid A (SAA) was measured by ELISA. Liver lipids were extracted with chloroform:methanol, and triglycerides, free and esterified cholesterol measured with enzymatic colorimetric kits. Expression of Cyp27a1, Cyp7a1, Abcg5, and Abcg8 in the liver was determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Sections of the aortic root and aorta were cut and stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) to assess extent of atherosclerotic lesions. WD‐fed animals had greater liver and adipose weights, plasma cholesterol and SAA, hepatic lipids, and atherosclerosis than AIN‐93G animals. TP and SG did not decrease atherosclerosis as measured by H&E‐stained sections of the aortic root, aortic arch, and descending aorta. The TP diets further increased plasma cholesterol, but also led to increased expression of the Abcg5/8 transporters involved in cholesterol efflux. Addition of SG alone to the WD attenuated WD‐induced increases in plasma cholesterol, liver lipids, and gonadal adipose weight. The results of this study do not support the use of either TP or SG for reduction of atherosclerosis, but suggest some beneficial effects of SG on lipid metabolism in this model of cardiovascular disease.
Instream Bacteria Influences from Bird Habitation of Bridges
Authors: Pendergrass David , McFarland Anne , Hauck Larry
Published: July 2015

The representativeness of ambient water samples collected from bridge crossings has occasionally been challenged because critics contend birds nesting on bridges elevate fecal indicator bacteria concentrations over samples collected from river reaches not spanned by bridges. This study was designed to evaluate the influence, if any, of bridge‐dwelling bird colonies on instream bacteria concentrations. Three bridges in central Texas were sampled under dry‐weather conditions for instream Escherichia coli. Two bridges were inhabited by migratory cliff swallows and one was devoid of birds. Numerous samples were collected from locations upstream, at the upstream bridgeface, and downstream of each bridge to determine whether significant increases in E. coli occurred in a downstream direction when birds were present. E. coli values increased significantly at bridgeface and downstream locations compared to upstream locations throughout the nesting season. During peak bird activity in May, bacteria geometric mean concentrations at bridgeface and downstream locations jumped from background levels <50 to >190 colony forming units (CFU)/100 mL, well above the state geometric mean criterion of 126 CFU/100 mL for primary contact recreation use. Results confirmed that under dry‐weather conditions bird colonies can have a significant impact on bacteria concentrations in the vicinity of the bridges they inhabit and therefore, to avoid this impact, monitoring should occur upstream of bridges.
Bankfull Regional Curves for the Alleghany Plateau/Valley and Ridge, Piedmont, and Coastal Plain Regions of Maryland
Authors: McCandless Tamara L. , Starr Richard R. , Harman William A.
Published: July 2015

Regional curves are empirical relationships that can help identify the bankfull stage in ungaged watersheds and aid in designing the riffle dimension in stream restoration projects. Bankfull regional curves were developed from gage stations with drainage areas less than 102 mi2 (264.2 km2) for the Alleghany Plateau/Valley and Ridge (AP/VR), Piedmont, and Coastal Plain regions of Maryland. The AP/VR regions were combined into one region for this project. These curves relate bankfull discharge, cross‐sectional area, width, and mean depth to drainage area within the same hydro‐physiographic region (region with similar rainfall/runoff relationship). The bankfull discharge curve for the Coastal Plain region was further subdivided into the Western Coastal Plain (WCP) and Eastern Coastal Plain (ECP) region due to differences in topography and runoff. Results show that the Maryland Piedmont yields the highest bankfull discharge rate per unit drainage area, followed by the AP/VR, WCP, and ECP. Likewise, the Coastal Plain and AP/VR streams have less bankfull cross‐sectional area per unit drainage area than the Piedmont. The average bankfull discharge return interval across the three hydro‐physiographic regions was 1.4 years. The Maryland regional curves were compared to other curves in the eastern United States. The average bankfull discharge return interval for the other studies ranged from 1.1 to 1.8 years.
Restoration of Riparian Buffer Function in Reclaimed Surface Mine Soils
Authors: Rahe Nathan H. , Williard Karl W.J. , Schoonover Jon E.
Published: July 2015

Ecosystem processes such as water infiltration and denitrification largely determine how riparian buffers function to protect surface water quality. Reclaimed mine areas offer a unique opportunity to study the restoration of riparian function without the confounding influence of past land use. Between 1980 and 2000 in southern Illinois, agricultural fields with forest buffers were established along three restored stream reaches in reclaimed mine land. Our research objective was to compare common indicators of soil quality (infiltration, soil C and N, bulk density, and soil moisture) between forest and cultivated riparian zones to determine if riparian function was being restored. Soil bulk density was significantly lower in the forest buffers compared to the agricultural fields. The forest buffers had greater soil total C, total N, and moisture levels than agricultural fields likely due to greater organic matter inputs. Soil total C and N levels in forest buffers were positively related to age of restoration, indicating soil quality is gradually being restored in the buffers. Restoration success of riparian buffers should not be estimated by the return of structure alone; it also includes reestablishment of functions such as nutrient cycling and water retention that largely determine water quality benefits. Watershed planning efforts can expect a lag time on the order of decades between riparian restoration activities and surface water quality improvement.
Effects of the Galanin Receptor Antagonist M40 on Cardiac Function and Remodeling in Rats with Heart Failure
Authors: Chen Ao , Li Min , Song Lei , Zhang Yunhe , Luo Zhangyuan , Zhang Wenzan , Chen Yingmin , He Ben
Published: July 2015

Background

Sympathetic activation and parasympathetic withdrawal are important characteristics of heart failure. Recent studies demonstrate that galanin reduces the discharge of acetylcholine and inhibits vagal bradycardia by acting on galanin receptor type 1 (GalR1). We speculated that blocking GalR1 is beneficial for heart failure.

Methods

Rats with heart failure were induced by myocardial infarction. The rats were injected intraperitoneally with galanin receptor antagonist M40 solution (30 nmol/kg) or saline for 4 weeks. Cardiac function was assessed by echocardiography and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) in plasma. The ratio of heart weight to body weight (HW/BW), hematoxylin–eosin (HE), and Masson trichrome stain was used to evaluate cardiac remodeling. Tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin 6 (IL‐6) in plasma, and sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase (SERCA2) in heart tissue were detected to confirm the mechanism of the cardioprotection effect.

Results

Compared with rats injected with saline, M40 effectively improved cardiac function of contraction; decreased BNP, IL‐6, and HW/BW (all P < 0.05); attenuated cardiac fibrosis; and upregulated SERCA2 (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

M40 improves cardiac function and attenuates remodeling, suggesting that galanin receptor antagonist may be a potential therapeutic agent for HF.
Integrating patient reported outcome measures and computerized adaptive test estimates on the same common metrics: an example from the assessment of activities in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Doğanay Erdoğan Beyza , Elhan Atilla Halİl , Kaskatı Osman Tolga , Öztuna Derya , Küçükdeveci Ayşe Adile , Kutlay Şehim , Tennant Alan
Published: July 2015

Aim

This study aimed to explore the potential of an inclusive and fully integrated measurement system for the Activities component of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), incorporating four classical scales, including the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), and a Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT).

Methods

Three hundred patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) answered relevant questions from four questionnaires. Rasch analysis was performed to create an item bank using this item pool. A further 100 RA patients were recruited for a CAT application. Both real and simulated CATs were applied and the agreement between these CAT‐based scores and ‘paper‐pencil’ scores was evaluated with intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Anchoring strategies were used to obtain a direct translation from the item bank common metric to the HAQ score.

Results

Mean age of 300 patients was 52.3 ± 11.7 years; disease duration was 11.3 ± 8.0 years; 74.7% were women. After testing for the assumptions of Rasch analysis, a 28‐item Activities item bank was created. The agreement between CAT‐based scores and paper‐pencil scores were high (ICC = 0.993). Using those HAQ items in the item bank as anchoring items, another Rasch analysis was performed with HAQ‐8 scores as separate items together with anchoring items. Finally a conversion table of the item bank common metric to the HAQ scores was created.

Conclusion

A fully integrated and inclusive health assessment system, illustrating the Activities component of the ICF, was built to assess RA patients. Raw score to metric conversions and vice versa were available, giving access to the metric by a simple look‐up table.
Cardiac arrhythmias as the initial manifestation of adult primary Sjögren's syndrome: a case report and literature review
Authors: Liang Minrui , Bao Liwen , Xiong Nanqing , Jin Bo , Ni Huanchun , Zhang Jinjin , Zou Hejian , Luo Xinping , Li Jian
Published: July 2015

Two middle‐aged female patients presenting with heart palpitation and electrocardiogram revealed complex cardiac arrhythmias. A review of systems was positive for dry mouth and transient arthralgia, while laboratory and instrumental tests enabled us to make the diagnosis of primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). Cardiac electrophysiology revealed atrioventricular node dysfunction and impaired intraventricular conduction. Prednisone therapy induced a significant improvement in symptoms and electrocardiographic readings. The diagnosis of pSS should be considered in a patient presenting with complex cardiac arrhythmias.
Genome‐wide expression and methylation profiles reveal candidate genes and biological processes underlying synovial inflammatory tissue of patients with osteoarthritis
Authors: Yang Jianxun , Wang Ning
Published: July 2015

Aim

The aim of the study was to identify osteoarthritis (OA)‐related biological markers and processes.

Methods

The gene expression profile GSE46750 including 12 normal and 12 inflammatory synovial membrane samples, as well as the DNA methylation profile GSE43269, including 18 normal samples and 23 OA samples, were used. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially methylated genes (DMGs) were screened. Gene Ontology (GO) and pathway enrichment analysis together with protein–protein interaction (PPI) and microRNA (miRNA) regulatory networks of DEGs or DMGs were performed. Integrated analysis of DEGs and DMGs was conducted.

Results

A total of 662 DEGs, including 419 up‐ and 243 down‐regulated genes as well as 198 DMGs, including 115 hypomethylated and 83 hypermethylated genes, were screened. GO terms and pathways enriched by up‐regulated DEGs were mainly related to immune and inflammatory response. Down‐regulated DEGs were entirely enriched in the cell cycle. Genes such as CDK1 (cyclin‐dependent kinase 1) and MAD2L1 (MAD2 mitotic arrest deficient‐like 1) were highlighted in PPI and the miRNA regulatory network. In addition, 14 overlapping genes between DEG and DMG lists, including CCL3L3 (chemokine C–C motif ligand 3) and IL‐8 (interleukin 8) were obtained. Most of them were up‐regulated and enriched in the immune and inflammatory response.

Conclusion

Cell cycle and its related genes, including CDK1 and MAD2L1 (down‐regulated), may contribute to the development of OA. Methylation, particularly hypomethylation of genes including IL‐8 and CCL3L3 could make positive effects on OA progress. However, further studies are still needed to confirm our results.
Neonatal lupus erythematosus: a review of 123 cases in China
Authors: Li Yi‐qun , Wang Qian , Luo Yan , Zhao Yan
Published: July 2015

Aim

To analyze the clinical features, outcomes and prognosis of neonatal lupus erythematosus (NLE) in China.

Method

We reviewed 12 NLE cases at the Peking Union Medical College Hospital and compared the data with 111 cases reported in China between 1990 and 2014. The Chinese medical journal search engines used in this study were Wanfang.data and Science China.

Results

No gender dominance in NLE incidence was found. Cutaneous lesions were present in more than 96% of patients, while cardiac, hematological and hepatobiliary manifestations were seen in 12.61%, 45.53% and 17.89% of cases, respectively. Congenital heart block (CHB) tended to be more persistent, with two cases showing CHB for 1 year and three cases persisting for 7–10 years. In this study more than 90% of mothers were anti‐Sjögren's syndrome A positive, and 65.04% were asymptomatic prior to the pregnancy.

Conclusion

These results indicate that clinicians, especially dermatologists, in China should improve their recognition of this disease to avoid misdiagnosis, and more attention should be paid to the follow‐up of NLE patients and their asymptomatic mothers.
Central arterial characteristics of gout patients with chronic kidney diseases
Authors: Celik Gulperi , Yilmaz Sema , Kebapcilar Levent , Gundogdu Ali
Published: July 2015

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between central blood pressure, arterial stiffness parameters and renal function parameters in gout patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and withoutCKD.

Methods

The study enrolled 48 gout patients and 32 control subjects. Central blood pressure, arterial stiffness parameters and renal function parameters in gout patients were investigated. The vascular measurements were performed with an arteriograph.

Results

Of the gout patients, 40.1% hadCKD. The 24‐h pulse pressure (PP) (P < 0.001), central systolic blood pressure (SBP) (P < 0.001), central diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (P < 0.001), cardiac output (CO) (P < 0.001) and peripheral resistance (P = 0.004) were significantly higher in the all patients with gout compared to healthy control subjects. Moreover, when the gout patients with and withoutCKDwere compared, the gout patients withCKDhad higher 24‐hPP(P = 0.009), 24‐h augmentation index standardized to a heart rate of 75 beats per min (AIx@75) (P < 0.023), daytimePP(P = 0.001), daytimeAIx@75 (P = 0.027), and nighttimePP(P = 0.035) than the gout patients withoutCKD.

Conclusions

In our study, gout patients withCKDhad worse and more emphasized evidence of arterial stiffness than gout patients withoutCKD. Further investigations with large sample sizes are needed to evaluate the effect ofCKDon the arterial stiffness of gout patients.
Ovarian reserve is preserved in Behçet's disease
Authors: şahİn Ali , Karakuş Savaş , Durmaz Yunus , Yildiz Çağlar , Aydin Hüseyin , Cengİz Ahmet Kıvanç
Published: July 2015

Aim

To compare ovarian reserve with anti‐müllerian hormone (AMH) levels, antral follicle counts (AFCs) and ovarian volume in patients with Behçet's disease (BD) and healthy subjects.

Method

This study included 35 women with BD (mean age: 34.4 ± 5.3 years) and 35 healthy controls (mean age: 34.1 ± 6.0 years). Venous blood samples collected from groups on menstrual cycle Days 2–4 were analyzed using the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay to measure follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol (E2), prolactin (PRL) and AMH levels. The AFCs and ovarian volumes were estimated by ultrasonography on the same day. The body mass index (BMI), duration and severity of the disease, medications, and number of children were recorded.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference in the mean age, median gravida/para/abortus and the number of live births and mean BMI between the patient and control groups (P > 0.05). No statistically significant difference in the median FSH, LH, E2, PRL levels, right and left ovarian volumes, and right and left ovarian AFCs was observed among the patients and the controls (P > 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in the mean AMH levels (P = 0.468). Bonferroni correction showed no statistically significant correlation between AMH levels and age, BMI, FSH, LH, E2, PRL levels, right and left ovarian AFCs, right and left ovarian volume (P > 0.025) among the controls and the patients.

Conclusion

Our study results suggest that ovarian reserve is preserved in patients with BD. In addition, AMH levels of the BD patients were similar to levels of healthy subjects.
Latent tuberculosis infection detection and active tuberculosis prevention in patients receiving anti‐TNF therapy: an Italian nationwide survey
Authors: Cantini Fabrizio , Lubrano Ennio , Marchesoni Antonio , Mathieu Alessandro , Olivieri Ignazio , Salvarani Carlo , Scarpa Raffaele , Spadaro Antonio
Published: July 2015

Aims

Primary: to investigate Italian rheumatology practice regarding latent tubercular infection (LTBI) detection and tuberculosis (TB) prevention in patients requiring anti‐tumor necrosis factor (anti‐TNF) therapy. Secondary: to assess the overall number of TB cases over 10 years and their distribution by drug.

Methods

An anonymous, 24 multiple‐response questionnaire was completed by 393/449 (87.5%) rheumatologists prescribing anti‐TNF therapy. Six questions provided setting information, and 18 the compliance with recommendations and the recorded TB cases.

Results

The Italian recommendations were used by 323 (82%) and other sets by 60 (15%). TB specialists were always consulted by 81 (21%) and occasionally by 73 (19%). LTBI screening was made using chest radiograph (CR) by 5%, tuburculin skin test (TST) by 5.3%, CR + TST by 35.6%, interferon‐gamma release assay (IGRA) by 7.4%, CR + IGRAs by 26% and CR + TST + IGRA by 20.6%. Isoniazid was initiated in the presence of positivity of TST by 97 (24.7%), TST + IGRA by 101 (25.7%) and IGRA by 195 (49.6%). Anti‐TNF starting delay was 1 month in 63.1% of the cases, 3 months in 27.7%, concomitantly in 5.6%. Overall, 317 TB reactivation cases occurred in 39 353 patients, with an incidence rate of 80.5 cases/100 000/year (10 times higher than in the Italian general population). TB occurred during TB prophylaxis in 192 (60.6%). TB cases incidence rate divided by drug was: etanercept (ETN) 51 (16%), 28/100 000/year, adalimumab (ADA) 98 (31%), 89/100 000/year, infliximab (IFX) 137 (43.2%), 211/100 000/year, with a significantly lower frequency in the ETN group compared to ADA and IFX groups (χ2 = P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Italian rheumatologists are highly aware of anti‐TNF‐related TB risk with variable LTBI screening and TB prevention strategies. TB outcome was significantly lower in the ETN group.
The controversial relationship between osteoarthritis and osteoporosis: an update on hand subtypes
Authors: Ramonda Roberta , Sartori Leonardo , Ortolan Augusta , Frallonardo Paola , Lorenzin Mariagrazia , Punzi Leonardo , Musacchio Estella
Published: July 2015

Aim

To compare hand osteoarthritis (HOA) subtypes and to examine possible links with local bone mineral density (BMD).

Method

Fifty‐five patients with erosive hand osteoarthritis (EHOA) and 21 patients with nodal hand osteoarthritis (NOA) fulfilling American College of Rheumatology criteria for HOA were evaluated. Subjects showing at least two erosions of the interphalangeal joints were assigned to the EHOA group; the others were considered NOA. Disease duration, number of active joints and radiological scores were assessed. All patients and 174 controls underwent phalangeal radiographic absorptiometry (pRA) of the middle phalanges of the non‐dominant hand to assess BMD, T‐ and Z‐scores.

Results

BMD was higher in EHOA with respect to NOA and controls (P = 0.05); T‐ and Z‐scores were significantly higher in EHOA (P = 0.01 and P < 0.01). Values suggestive of osteopenia were found in 32% of EHOA and 22% of NOA patients, and in 44% of controls (P = 0.05 EHOA vs. NOA); a T‐score < −2.5 standard deviations was present in 15% of EHOA and 28% of NOA patients, and in 21% of controls (P = 0.05 EHOA vs. NOA).

Conclusion

Phalangeal BMD was higher in EHOA compared to NOA and controls. This characteristic could potentially be exploited to differentiate the two hand OA subtypes.
Musculoskeletal manifestations in diabetic versus prediabetic patients
Authors: Fatemi Alimohammad , Iraj Bijan , Barzanian Jafar , Maracy Mohammadreza , Smiley Abbas
Published: July 2015

Aim

This study was carried out to evaluate the prevalence of musculoskeletal manifestations in a sample of patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and those with prediabetes and compare the findings between the two groups.

Methods

One hundred and eighty‐eight patients with DM and 125 prediabetic subjects were randomly enrolled in this cross‐sectional study. Demographic data and past history were recorded. Musculoskeletal physical examinations were done by a single rheumatologist. Regression analyses were employed to assess the crude and adjusted effects of determinants on DM musculoskeletal manifestations (DMMMs).

Results

Female/male ratio was not significantly different between diabetic and prediabetic patients (4.4 vs. 4.7, respectively, P = 0.9). However, diabetic patients were significantly older than the prediabetic ones (56.6 vs. 52 years, respectively, P = 0.0001); 83.5% of diabetic patients and 52.8% of prediabetic ones had at least one musculoskeletal manifestation (P = 0.0001). The prevalence of knee osteoarthritis and shoulder involvement were almost two times more common (P = 0.0001 and P = 0.015) in diabetic patients than in prediabetic ones (73.4% vs. 38% and 21.2% vs. 9.5%, respectively). Prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) was 48% and 36.5% in patients with diabetes and prediabetes, respectively (P = 0.053). Multivariate backward regression analysis showed age, sex, BMI (body mass index) and DM as the significant determinants in development of musculoskeletal manifestations in all subjects. Age and BMI were the only significant factors associated with musculoskeletal manifestations in both diabetic and prediabetic patients.

Conclusion

Diabetic and prediabetic patients may show high prevalence of musculoskeletal manifestations. In non‐diabetic patients diagnosed with CTS, prediabetes might be ruled out.
The Development and Evolution of R2P as International Policy
Authors: Thakur Ramesh
Published: July 2015

This article traces the arc of global public policy development by using the responsibility to protect (R2P) as a case study and the central role and place of the United Nations in that story. The arc has seven way‐stations: policy setting (nonintervention as the entrenched norm of the postcolonial order despite an increasingly internationalised human conscience among many western peoples and governments and the episodic practice of humanitarian intervention); policy challenge (the need to respond to mass atrocity crimes against the unacceptability both of inaction and unilateral intervention); policy innovation (R2P); policy development (an iterative process since 2005 engaging multiple actors); policy implementation (in Libya in 2011); policy paralysis (in Syria since 2011); and the emerging policy parameters (how to ensure interventions are done with due responsibility).
Accuracy of a prey‐specific DNA assay and a generic prey‐immunomarking assay for detecting predation
Authors: Hagler James R. , Blackmer Felisa , Spurgeon Dale W.
Published: July 2015

Predator gut examinations are useful for detecting arthropod predation events. The accuracy and reproducibility of two different gut assays are tested on various predator species that consumed Chrysoperla carnea (Stephens) that was externally labelled with rabbit immunoglobulin (IgG).

Each predator homogenate was examined in triplicate for prey remains by both a conventional PCR assay to detect for C. carnea DNA and a generic ELISA to detect for rabbit IgG‐marked prey. The ability of each method to detect predation over time was compared among predators, and between assay types were determined using a novel three‐dimensional contingency table approach.

Both assays reliably detected prior predation (e.g. at least one of the three subsamples yielded a positive reaction) for 6–12 h after feeding. However, the generic ELISA was more reproducible (e.g. all three subsamples yielded the same outcome) than the PCR.

This shows that it was important to assay the predators in triplicate by PCR to avoid a high occurrence of false‐negative reactions. Conversely, reproducible results from the ELISA procedure were not dependent on duplicate subsamples. Overall, the generic immunomarking gut assay procedure proved an effective method to assess predation.
Alfentanil during rapid sequence induction with thiopental 4 mg/kg and rocuronium 0.6 mg/kg: tracheal intubation conditions
Authors: Abou‐Arab M. H. , Feiner J. R. , Spigset O. , Heier T.
Published: July 2015

Background

Opioids have become an integral part of anaesthesia induction. We aimed to determine the dose of alfentanil needed to obtain perfect tracheal intubation conditions during rapid sequence induction with standard doses of thiopental and rocuronium, where laryngoscopy was initiated 55 s after commencement of drug administration. The influence of covariates (sex, body weight, age, alfentanil plasma concentration at laryngoscopy) was tested.

Methods

Eighty‐four healthy individuals were randomly assigned to receive one of the seven assessor‐blinded alfentanil doses (0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 μg/kg) in conjunction with thiopental 4 mg/kg and rocuronium 0.6 mg/kg. For drug administration, 15 s was allowed. Laryngoscopy was initiated 40 s after rocuronium and tracheal intubation concluded within 70 s after commencement of drug administration. Alfentanil doses associated with 50%, 90% and 95% probability of perfect intubation conditions were determined with logistic regression. Multiple logistic regressions were used to test the influence of covariates. The relationship between alfentanil dose and concentration at laryngoscopy was analysed with linear regression. The effects of covariates on plasma concentrations of alfentanil were tested with multiple linear regressions.

Results

Perfect intubation conditions of 95% probability was obtained with 56 μg/kg (confidence intervals 44–68). None of the covariates were significant predictors of perfect intubation conditions. Alfentanil plasma concentration correlated with dose and increased with increasing body weight (1.7 ng/ml/kg).

Conclusion

Perfect intubation conditions during rapid sequence induction can be obtained with clinically relevant doses of alfentanil in most healthy patients anaesthetized with thiopental 4 mg/kg and rocuronium 0.6 mg/kg.