bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety of sitagliptin in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease: outcomes from TECOS
Authors: Engel Samuel S. , Suryawanshi Shailaja , Stevens Susanna R. , Josse Robert G. , Cornel Jan H. , Jakuboniene Neli , Riefflin Axel , Tankova Tsvetalina , Wainstein Julio , Peterson Eric D. , Holman Rury R. ,   on behalf of the TECOS Study Group
Published: April 2017

Aims

To characterize the incidence of diabetes‐associated complications and assess the safety of sitagliptin in participants with chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the Trial Evaluating Cardiovascular Outcomes with Sitagliptin (TECOS).

Materials and methods

For participants with baseline eGFR measurements (n = 14 528), baseline characteristics and safety outcomes were compared for the CKD cohort (eGFR < 60 mL/min per 1.73 m2) vs those without CKD. Within the CKD cohort, the same analyses were performed, comparing sitagliptin‐ and placebo‐assigned participants. Baseline characteristics were summarized for all participants, and serious adverse events were analysed in those who received at least 1 dose of study medication. Adverse events of interest and diabetes complications were summarized for the intention‐to‐treat population.

Results

CKD was present in 3324 (23%) participants at entry into TECOS. The mean (SD) age for this CKD cohort was 68.8 (7.9) years, mean diabetes duration was 13.7 (9.0) years, and 62% were men. Incidences of serious adverse events, malignancy, bone fracture, severe hypoglycaemia and most categories of diabetes complications were higher in the CKD cohort compared with those without CKD. Over ~2.8 median years of follow‐up, CKD participants assigned to sitagliptin had rates of diabetic eye disease, diabetic neuropathy, renal failure, malignancy, bone fracture, pancreatitis and severe hypoglycaemia similar to those of placebo‐assigned participants.

Conclusions

Participants in TECOS with CKD had higher incidences of serious adverse events and diabetes complications than those without CKD. Treatment with sitagliptin was generally well tolerated, with no meaningful differences in safety outcomes observed between those with CKD assigned to sitagliptin or placebo.
Non‐additivity and the Salience of Marginal Productivities: Experimental Evidence on Distributive Fairness
Authors: Fischbacher Urs , Kairies‐Schwarz Nadja , Stefani Ulrike
Published: April 2017

We investigate the relevance of different distributive fairness norms in a team production process in which the team members’ contributions to the joint output are not necessarily additive. In some of the cases of non‐additivity, the individual marginal contributions to the output are not salient. We vary the salience and investigate how third parties allocate the joint output to the team members. We find that the prevalent norm is to hold others responsible only for their inputs rather than for the incremental increase in the output. The marginal productivities are taken into account only when they are made readily apparent.
Stroke etiology and collaterals: atheroembolic strokes have greater collateral recruitment than cardioembolic strokes
Authors: Rebello L. C. , Bouslama M. , Haussen D. C. , Grossberg J. A. , Dehkharghani S. , Anderson A. , Belagaje S. R. , Bianchi N. A. , Grigoryan M. , Frankel M. R. , Nogueira R. G.
Published: April 2017

Background and purpose

Chronic hypoperfusion from athero‐stenotic lesions is thought to lead to better collateral recruitment compared to cardioembolic strokes. It was sought to compare collateral flow in stroke patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) versus stroke patients with cervical atherosclerotic steno‐occlusive disease (CASOD).

Method

This was a retrospective review of a prospectively collected endovascular database. Patients with (i) anterior circulation large vessel occlusion stroke, (ii) pre‐treatment computed tomography angiography (CTA) and (iii) intracranial embolism from AF or CASOD were included. CTA collateral patterns were evaluated and categorized into two groups: absent/poor collaterals (CTA collateral score 0–1) versus moderate/good collaterals (CTA collateral score 2–4). CT perfusion was also utilized for baseline core volume and evaluation of infarct growth.

Results

A total of 122 patients fitted the inclusion criteria, of whom 88 (72%) had AF and 34 (27%) CASOD. Patients with AF were older (P < 0.01) and less often males or smokers (P = 0.04 and P < 0.01 respectively). Baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale and Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score were comparable between groups. Collateral scores were lower in the AF group (P = 0.01) with patients having poor collaterals in 28% of cases versus 9% in the CASOD group (P = 0.03). Mortality rates (20% vs. 0%; P = 0.02) were higher in the AF patients whilst rates of any parenchymal hemorrhage (6% vs. 26%; P < 0.01) were higher in the CASOD group. On multivariable analysis, CASOD was an independent predictor of moderate/good collaterals (odds ratio 4.70; 95% confidence interval 1.17–18.79; P = 0.03).

Conclusions

Atheroembolic strokes seem to be associated with better collateral flow compared to cardioembolic strokes. This may in part explain the worse outcomes of AF‐related stroke.
Effect of a 4‐week elastic resistance band training regimen on back kinematics in horses trotting in‐hand and on the lunge
Authors: Pfau T. , Simons V. , Rombach N. , Stubbs N. , Weller R.
Published: April 2017

Background

Training and rehabilitation techniques aiming at improving core muscle strength may result in increased dynamic stability of the equine vertebral column. A system of elastic resistance bands is suggested to provide proprioceptive feedback during motion to encourage recruitment of core abdominal and hindquarter musculature for improved dynamic stability.

Objectives

To quantify the effects of a specific resistance band system on back kinematics during trot in‐hand and lungeing at beginning and end of a 4‐week exercise programme.

Study design

Quantitative analysis of back movement before/after a 4‐week exercise programme.

Methods

Inertial sensor data were collected from seven horses at weeks 1 and 4 of an exercise protocol with elastic resistance bands. Translational (dorsoventral, mediolateral) and rotational (roll, pitch) range of motion of six landmarks from poll to coccygeal region were quantified during trot in‐hand (hard surface) and during lungeing (soft surface, both reins) with/without elastic exercise bands. A mixed model (P<0.05) evaluated the effects of exercise bands, time (week) and movement direction (straight, left, right).

Results

The bands reduced roll, pitch and mediolateral displacement in the thoracolumbar region (all P≤0.04). At week 4, independent of band usage, rotational movement (withers, thoracic) was reduced while dorsoventral movement (thoracic, coccygeal) increased. Increased back movement was measured in 80% of back movement parameters during lungeing.

Main limitations

Comparing each horse without and with bands without a control group does not distinguish whether the differences measured between weeks 1 and 4 are related to use of the bands, or only to the exercise regimen.

Conclusions

Results suggest that the elastic resistance bands reduce mediolateral and rotational movement of the thoracolumbar region (increase dynamic stability) in trot. Further studies should investigate the underlying mechanism with reference to core abdominal and hindquarter muscle recruitment and study the long‐term effects.

The Summary is available in Chinese – see Supporting Information.
Metabolic reprogramming and epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition in cancer
Authors: Sciacovelli Marco , Frezza Christian
Published: April 2017

Several lines of evidence indicate that during transformation epithelial cancer cells can acquire mesenchymal features via a process called epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). This process endows cancer cells with increased invasive and migratory capacity, enabling tumour dissemination and metastasis. EMT is associated with a complex metabolic reprogramming, orchestrated by EMT transcription factors, which support the energy requirements of increased motility and growth in harsh environmental conditions. The discovery that mutations in metabolic genes such as FH, SDH and IDH activate EMT provided further evidence that EMT and metabolism are intertwined. In this review, we discuss the role of EMT in cancer and the underpinning metabolic reprogramming. We also put forward the hypothesis that, by altering chromatin structure and function, metabolic pathways engaged by EMT are necessary for its full activation.
Mandatory Worker Representation on the Board and Its Effect on Shareholder Wealth
Authors: Petry Stefan
Published: April 2017

Several countries legally mandate representation of workers on boards of directors. The evidence on the shareholder wealth effects of such a corporate governance design is mixed. I examine abnormal announcement returns around major milestones leading to the passing of the German Codetermination Act in 1976. I find that news about the act causes an average decline in the equity value of firms that are certain to have been affected by the new law of up to 1.5% relative to the control firms. Firms close to the regulatory threshold of 2,000 employees remain unaffected implying an expectation of avoiding compliance.
Distribution of economically important fish larvae (Characiformes, Prochilodontidae) in the Central Amazonia, Brazil
Authors: Zacardi D. M. , Bittencourt S. C. S. , Nakayama L. , de Queiroz H. L.
Published: April 2017

The spatio‐temporal patterns of three species of Prochilodontidae larvae that are intensely used as fishery resources in Central Amazonia are analysed. Sampling was conducted during 2011 at four stages of the hydrological cycle (flood, high water, falling and low water phases). Sixteen collecting stations were located in different habitats (mouths of lake channels, “barrancos,” sandbars and the main river channel) along the Solimões and Japurá rivers. A total of 4,322 Prochilodontidae larvae were collected during this investigation, with most captures occurring in the Japurá River (76.3% of larvae), while only 23.7% of the samples were caught in the Solimões River. Most captures occurred during rising water, indicating a strong reproductive seasonality in these three species. Rainfall and water level, along with dissolved oxygen, water temperature and electric conductivity, determined the larvae's spatio‐temporal distribution. These results confirm the importance of várzea areas along white water rivers for the conservation, preservation and maintenance of heavily used fishery resources in the Brazilian Central Amazonia.
Fluorescent Aerolysin (FLAER)‐based paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) screening: a single center experience from India
Authors: Rahman K. , Gupta R. , Yadav G. , Husein N. , Singh M. K. , Nityanand S.
Published: April 2017

Background

Fluorescent aerolysin (FLAER) has been recommended as an important part of antibody panel used for flow cytometric detection of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) clone. This study was aimed to observe the frequency of PNH‐positive clones and their sizes in patients screened for various indications.

Method

A retrospective analysis of 624 patients screened over a period of 30 months. Frequency and size of clone sizes noted, and laboratory parameters were compared among different groups of patient being screened.

Results

There were 445 adults and 179 pediatric patients. Indications for screening included AA (n = 433), myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) (n = 34), hemolytic anemia (n = 84), and thrombophilia workup group (n = 63). PNH clones were found in 39.03%, 5.88%, 26.19%, and 1.59% cases, respectively. No significant difference among adult or pediatric population was noted. The bone marrow failure (BMF) group [AA and MDS] with PNH clone had a significantly lower clone size (Median‐ 2.7%) as compared to classic PNH group (Median—77.2%). Most of the classic PNH cases (78.26%) and a small proportion of AA (9.9%) showed a large clone size (>50%). In spite of having large clone size, there was a significant difference between the median LDH values of these two groups (2511.5 vs 593 U/L).

Conclusion

FLAER‐based screening detects the presence of PNH clone in a high proportion of AA patients and some MDS patients. These patients usually have a small clone size. Even if they have a large clone, it does not get translated into a high LDH or severe clinical symptoms.
Gene structure and expression characteristic of a novel odorant receptor gene cluster in the parasitoid wasp Microplitis mediator (Hymenoptera: Braconidae)
Authors: Wang S.‐N. , Shan S. , Zheng Y. , Peng Y. , Lu Z.‐Y. , Yang Y.‐Q. , Li R.‐J. , Zhang Y.‐J. , Guo Y.‐Y.
Published: April 2017

Odorant receptors (ORs) expressed in the antennae of parasitoid wasps are responsible for detection of various lipophilic airborne molecules. In the present study, 107 novel OR genes were identified from Microplitis mediator antennal transcriptome data. Phylogenetic analysis of the set of OR genes from M. mediator and Microplitis demolitor revealed that M. mediator OR (MmedOR) genes can be classified into different subfamilies, and the majority of MmedORs in each subfamily shared high sequence identities and clear orthologous relationships to M. demolitor ORs. Within a subfamily, six MmedOR genes, MmedOR98, 124, 125, 126, 131 and 155, shared a similar gene structure and were tightly linked in the genome. To evaluate whether the clustered MmedOR genes share common regulatory features, the transcription profile and expression characteristics of the six closely related OR genes were investigated in M. mediator. Rapid amplification of cDNA ends‐PCR experiments revealed that the OR genes within the cluster were transcribed as single mRNAs, and a bicistronic mRNA for two adjacent genes (MmedOR124 and MmedOR98) was also detected in female antennae by reverse transcription PCR. In situ hybridization experiments indicated that each OR gene within the cluster was expressed in a different number of cells. Moreover, there was no co‐expression of the two highly related OR genes, MmedOR124 and MmedOR98, which appeared to be individually expressed in a distinct population of neurons. Overall, there were distinct expression profiles of closely related MmedOR genes from the same cluster in M. mediator. These data provide a basic understanding of the olfactory coding in parasitoid wasps.
Motor nerve excitability after childhood Guillain‐Barré syndrome
Authors: Drenthen Judith , Roodbol Joyce , Maathuis Ellen M. , Catsman‐Berrevoets Coriene E. , Blok Joleen H. , de Wit Marie‐Claire Y. , Jacobs Bart C.
Published: April 2017

Residual motor nerve dysfunction after pediatric Guillain‐Barré syndrome (GBS) was determined in an observational cross‐sectional cohort study in patients who previously developed GBS during childhood (<18 years). Ulnar motor nerve dysfunction was defined by compound motor action potential (CMAP) scan in patients after a follow up of at least 1 year compared with age‐matched healthy controls, in relation to clinical course and outcome. A total of 37 persons previously diagnosed with GBS in childhood were included with a mean age at current examination of 20.6 years (4–39 years). The median time between diagnosis and follow‐up was 11 years (range: 1–22 years). CMAP scanning indicated ulnar motor nerve dysfunction in 25 (68%) participants. The most frequent abnormality was a reduction in nerve excitability observed both in those with residual limb weakness and in the majority of those with complete recovery. CMAP scan characteristics were not related to prognostic factors or outcome. In conclusion, GBS in childhood results in residual motor nerve excitability disturbances, even in those completely recovered, probably reflecting altered physiology of regenerated peripheral nerves.
Efficacy of fractionated microneedle radiofrequency with and without adding subcision for the treatment of atrophic facial acne scars: A randomized split‐face clinical study
Authors: Faghihi Gita , Poostiyan Nazila , Asilian Ali , Abtahi‐Naeini Bahareh , Shahbazi Masoom , Iraji Fariba , Fatemi Naeini Farahnaz , Nilforoushzadeh Mohammad Ali
Published: April 2017

Background

There is no gold standard treatment for facial acne scars, and overall, little literature exists about the combination therapy for treatment of acne scar.

Aims

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of fractionated microneedle radiofrequency (FMR) vsFMRcombined with subcision for the treatment of atrophic acne scars.

Patients/Methods

This was a randomized, split‐face clinical study of 25 patients with II‐IV Fitzpatrick skin types with moderate to severe facial atrophic acne scars. Initially, standard subcision by Nokor needle was performed on one side. Two weeks after subcision,FMRtreatment was performed on both cheeks of each participant. Second and thirdFMRtreatment sessions were performed within 4‐week intervals. Two‐blinded dermatologists performed clinical assessments using a quartile grading scale, and patients were also asked to judge their satisfaction using a visual analog scale (VAS) scoring system.

Results

The age of the patients varied from 24 to 40 years (mean: 30.08±4.94 years). Only nine patients (36%) were males. Clinical assessment by two‐blinded dermatologists showed statistically significant improvement in the combination (FMR+subcision) group (P=.009). Patient satisfaction was statistically significantly better in the combination group (P=.001). A darkening of skin phototype was associated with a decrease in patient's satisfactionVASscore (P=.07).

Conclusion

The combination of subcision andFMRis a safe and effective modality for mixed type acne scars. Additional randomized clinical study with long‐term follow‐up is necessary for further evaluation ofFMRin combination with other procedures.

The full trial protocol can be accessed in:http://www.irct.ir/searchresult.php?keyword=%20%20IRCT2016103130597N1&id=30597&number=1&field=a&prt=1&total=1&m=1.

The clinical trial registration number isIRCT2016103130597N1.
Posttraumatic stress and anxiety in patients with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator: Trajectories and vulnerability factors
Authors: Habibović Mirela , Denollet Johan , Pedersen Susanne S. ,   on behalf of the WEBCARE investigators
Published: April 2017

Background

Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) therapy is the first‐line treatment for the primary and secondary prevention of sudden cardiac death. Despite the unequivocal medical benefits, living with an ICD may affect patients’ psychological functioning and general well‐being. We examined the trajectories of symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety in patients with an ICD and the vulnerability factors associated with an increased risk of symptoms of PTSD and anxiety.

Methods

A total of 249 patients were included as part of the WEB‐based distress program for implantable CARdioverter dEfibrillator patients (WEBCARE) study. Data were analyzed using Latent class analyses, with trajectories of PTSD symptomatology and anxiety examined between baseline and 12 months follow‐up.

Results

The mean age of the sample was 58.9 ± 9.8, with the majority being male (82%). Latent Class analyses (LatentGOLD) revealed four classes with respect to PTSD symptomatology, and three classes of patients with respect to anxiety. Younger age, increased depression score at baseline, and Type D personality were all associated with increased vulnerability for posttraumatic stress and anxiety symptoms.

Conclusion

Comparable trajectories were found for symptoms of PTSD and anxiety over time. Patients with a younger age, increased depression score at baseline, and Type D personality were especially prone to experience PTSD and anxiety symptomatology at 12 months follow‐up. Due to the negative association between PTSD, anxiety, and health outcomes, it is paramount to timely identify the subset of patients who are vulnerable to experience these symptoms and provide them with personalized support.
Pitfalls in electrogram interpretation: Subcutaneous cardioverter defibrillator malfunction in Brugada syndrome
Authors: Morani Giovanni , Bolzan Bruna , Tomasi Luca , Tomei Ruggero , Vassanelli Corrado
Published: April 2017

A patient with Brugada syndrome implanted with subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S‐ICD) had oversensing episodes treated with S‐ICD shocks. Comparable artifacts were not evocable with S‐ICD pocket manipulation. The fluoroscopy excluded S‐ICD macroscopic damage.

The device extraction revealed undamaged pulse generator and connector, but the lead was inappropriately tunneled under the sixth rib. Then the S‐ICD malfunction was due to lead microscopic damage caused by the lead rubbing the rib surface.
Prognosis of infantile food protein‐induced enterocolitis syndrome in Japan
Authors: Kimura Mitsuaki , Shimomura Masaki , Morishita Hideaki , Meguro Takaaki
Published: April 2017

Background

Although serum C‐reactive protein (CRP) and the percentage of eosinophils in peripheral blood (Eo) are increased at onset in infants with food protein‐induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES), the relationship of these laboratory findings to prognosis is presently unknown.

Methods

Correlation of serum CRP and Eo at onset with prognosis was analyzed in 32 patients with FPIES caused by cow's milk (CM).

Results

The rate of tolerance acquisition was 18.8%, 56.3%, 87.5%, and 96.9% at the ages of 6, 12, 24, and 36 months, respectively. Serum CRP increased in 50% of subjects at onset (median, 0.21 mg/dL; range, <0.20–18.2 mg/dL) and Eo was elevated in 71.9% of subjects at onset (median, 7.1%; range, 1.0–50.5%). Age at tolerance acquisition was significantly positively correlated with serum CRP at onset (r = 0.45, P < 0.01), and significantly negatively correlated with Eo at onset (r = −0.36, P < 0.05). Although CM‐specific immunoglobulin E antibody (sIgE) was positive in nine of 32 FPIES patients at onset (median, 0.93; range, 0.38–18.9 kU/L), it decreased thereafter. CM‐sIgE at onset did not correlate significantly with prognosis (r = 0.22, P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Serum CRP is not only an indicator of the activity of intestinal inflammation, it is also a useful parameter of poor prognosis in FPIES. In contrast, eosinophilia at onset could be used as a marker of good prognosis, suggesting that it has some beneficial effects in the pathophysiology of FPIES.
Validation of Sun Exposure Reported Annually Against Interim Self‐report and Daily Sun Diaries
Authors: King Laura , Xiang Fan , Swaminathan Ashwin , Dear Keith , Harrison Simone L. , van der Mei Ingrid , Kimlin Michael G. , D'Este Catherine , Lucas Robyn M.
Published: April 2017

Data on personal sun exposure over a period exceeding the immediate past days or weeks are typically self‐reported in brief questionnaire items. The validity of such self‐reporting of longer term personal sun exposure, for example over a year, including detail on variation across seasons, has not previously been investigated. In a volunteer sample (n = 331) of Australian adults aged 18 years and over, we assessed the 12‐month reliability of sun exposure reported separately for each season, and its accuracy compared to a daily sun diary in the same season. Seasonal time outdoors displayed fair‐to‐good reliability between baseline and end of study (12 months), with responses showing higher agreement at lower levels of time outdoors. There was good agreement for ranking of individuals' time outdoors with the daily sun diary data, although the actual diary time outdoors was typically considerably lower than the self‐reported questionnaire data. Place of residence, education, being a smoker, day of the week (i.e. working day vs nonworking day) and working mainly outdoors were significant predictors of agreement. While participants overestimated their actual time outdoors, the self‐report questionnaire provided a valid ranking of long‐term sun exposure against others in the study that was reliable over time.
High level of reduced glutathione contributes to detoxification of lipid peroxide‐derived reactive carbonyl species in transgenic Arabidopsis overexpressing glutathione reductase under aluminum stress
Authors: Yin Lina , Mano Jun'ichi , Tanaka Kiyoshi , Wang Shiwen , Zhang Meijuan , Deng Xiping , Zhang Suiqi
Published: April 2017

Lipid peroxide‐derived reactive carbonyl species (RCS), generated downstream of reactive oxygen species (ROS), are critical damage‐inducing species in plant aluminum (Al) toxicity. In mammals, RCS are scavenged primarily by glutathione (reduced form of glutathione, GSH), but in plant Al stress, contribution of GSH to RCS detoxification has not been evaluated. In this study, Arabidopsis plants overexpressing the gene AtGR1 (accession code At3g24170), encoding glutathione reductase (GR), were generated, and their performance under Al stress was examined. These transgenic plants (GR‐OE plants) showed higher GSH levels and GSH/GSSG (oxidized form of GSH) ratio, and an improved Al tolerance as they suffered less inhibition of root growth than wild‐type under Al stress. Exogenous application of 4‐hydroxy‐2‐nonenal, an RCS responsible for Al toxicity in roots, markedly inhibited root growth in wild‐type plants. GR‐OE plants suffered significantly smaller inhibition, indicating that the enhanced GSH level increased the capacity of RCS detoxification. The generation of H2O2 due to Al stress in GR‐OE plants was lower by 26% than in wild‐type. Levels of various RCS, such as malondialdehyde, butyraldehyde, phenylacetaldehyde, (E)‐2‐heptenal and n‐octanal, were suppressed by more than 50%. These results indicate that high levels of GSH and GSH/GSSG ratio by GR overexpression contributed to the suppression of not only ROS, but also RCS. Thus, the maintenance of GSH level by overexpressing GR reinforces dual detoxification functions in plants and is an efficient approach to enhance Al tolerance.
Cognitive functioning and emotion processing in breast cancer survivors and controls: An ERP pilot study
Authors: Wirkner Janine , Weymar Mathias , Löw Andreas , Hamm Carmen , Struck Anne‐Marie , Kirschbaum Clemens , Hamm Alfons O.
Published: April 2017

Diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer is a very emotionally aversive and stressful life event, which can lead to impaired cognitive functioning and mental health. Breast cancer survivors responding with repressive emotion regulation strategies often show less adaptive coping and adverse outcomes. We investigated cognitive functioning and neural correlates of emotion processing using ERPs. Self‐report measures of depression, anxiety, and fatigue, as well as hair cortisol as an index of chronic stress, were assessed. Twenty breast cancer survivors (BCS) and 31 carefully matched healthy controls participated in the study. After neuropsychological testing and subjective assessments, participants viewed 30 neutral, 30 unpleasant, and 30 pleasant pictures, and ERPs were recorded. Recognition memory was tested 1 week later. BCS reported stronger complaints about cognitive impairments and more symptoms of depression, anxiety, and fatigue. Moreover, they showed elevated hair cortisol levels. Except for verbal memory, cognitive functioning was predominantly in the normative range. Recognition memory performance was decreased in cancer survivors, especially for emotional contents. In ERPs, survivors showed smaller late positive potential amplitudes for unpleasant pictures relative to controls in a later time window, which may indicate less elaborative processing of this material. Taken together, we found cognitive impairments in BCS in verbal memory, impaired emotional picture memory accuracy, and reduced neural activity when breast cancer survivors were confronted with unpleasant materials. Further studies and larger sample sizes, however, are needed to evaluate the relationship between altered emotion processing and reduced memory in BCS in order to develop new treatment strategies.
In vitro production of porcine zygotes using intracytoplasmic injection of vitrified sperm
Authors: Arraztoa CC , Baca Castex C , Alvarez GM , Cetica PD , Neild DM
Published: April 2017

Contents

The objectives of this study were to evaluate if vitrified porcine spermatozoa are able to maintain their capacity to produce zygotes in vitro using intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and to evaluate the zygote development in two in vitro atmospheric conditions: 5% CO2 and tri‐gas. A group of porcine oocytes maturated in vitro were injected with vitrified‐warmed sperm (treatment group) and another group, with sperm diluted and conserved at 17°C (control group). To evidence parthenogenetic activation, some oocytes were submitted to a Sham test. The injected oocytes were cultured in G1 medium at 38°C, 100% humidity and 5% CO2 or tri‐gas. No significant differences (p > .05) were observed in embryo development between the oocytes injected with vitrified‐warmed sperm (31.8%; 36/113), and those injected with semen diluted and conserved at 17°C (35.5%; 32/90), when cultured in 5% CO2 or under tri‐gas atmosphere (42.9%; 39/91 vs. 34.2%; 26/76, respectively). No significant differences (p > .05) were observed in the percentage of pronuclei (PN) obtained between 5% CO2 and tri‐gas, within each treatment either. Of the 52 oocytes submitted to the Sham test, only two presented a female PN (activation) indicating that the PN observed in the treatment group were a product of fertilization and not parthenogenetic activation. To conclude, porcine sperm vitrified using spheres, at a concentration of 5 × 106 spermatozoa/ml in TALP medium with 1% bovine serum albumin (BSA), conserve condensed and intact chromatin capable of producing early embryo development up to the pronuclear stage.
The Effectiveness of Exercise in Adults With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis to Guide Evidence‐Based Practice
Authors: Wu Mei‐Ling , Yu Kuang‐Hui , Tsai Jen‐Chen
Published: April 2017

Background

Fatigue is the most common and unpleasant symptom of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, there is limited information regarding how exercise affects fatigue.

Aims

The purpose of this study is to review and synthesize the current knowledge concerning the effectiveness of exercise training for treating fatigue among adults with SLE. The characteristics of beneficial exercise training are further evaluated.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis. The databases searched were MEDLINE, CINAHL, PEDro, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and PQDT from their inception to February 3, 2016. The quality of each selected study was assessed using the PEDro scale. A between‐group analysis was performed to evaluate the effectiveness of the exercise training. Data were analyzed using the Cochrane Collaboration's RevMan 5.3 (Copenhagen, Denmark).

Results

Two randomized controlled trials and one quasiexperimental study were included in this systematic review and meta‐analysis. Aerobic exercise, three times a week and of moderate intensity, was a common component of the three studies. Two studies were conducted in a supervised setting and one study was based at home. One study lasted 8 weeks and two studies lasted 12 weeks. The meta‐analysis showed that aerobic exercise could decrease fatigue (MD = –.52, 95% confidence interval [CI] [–.91, –.13], p = .009) and increase vitality (MD = 14.98, 95% CI [7.45, 22.52], p < .001). The subgroup analysis indicated that 12 weeks of exercise training and exercise under a supervised setting significantly benefited fatigue.

Linking Evidence to Action

The pooled data indicate that 12 weeks of an aerobic exercise program that is supervised by health professionals could reduce fatigue and increase vitality for patients with SLE. SLE patients with mild disease should begin with moderate intensity for at least 20 minutes, 3 days a week.
Tick bite and Lyme disease‐related emergency department encounters in New Hampshire, 2010–2014
Authors: Daly E. R. , Fredette C. , Mathewson A. A. , Dufault K. , Swenson D. J. , Chan B. P.
Published: April 2017

Lyme disease (LD) is a common tick‐borne disease in New Hampshire (NH). While LD is a reportable condition and cases are counted for public health surveillance, many more people receive care for tick bites or diagnoses of LD than are reflected in surveillance data. NH's emergency department (ED) data system was queried for tick bite and LD‐related encounters. Chief complaint text was queried for words related to LD or tick bites. International Classification of Diseases 9th Revision (ICD‐9) codes were queried for the LD diagnosis code (088.81). Emergency department patient data were matched to reportable disease data to determine the proportion of ED patients reported to the health department as a suspected LD case. Data were analysed to calculate frequencies for key demographic and reporting characteristics. From 2010 to 2014, 13,615 tick bite or LD‐related ED encounters were identified in NH, with most due to tick bites (76%). Of 3,256 patients with a LD‐related ED encounter, 738 (23%) were reported to the health department as a suspected LD case. The geographic distribution of ED patients was similar to reported LD cases; however, the regions of the state that experienced higher rates of ED encounters were different than the regions that observed higher rates of reported LD cases. Seasonal distribution of ED encounters peaked earlier than reported LD cases with a second peak in the fall. While age and sex distribution was similar among ED patients and reported LD cases, the rates for children 5 years and younger and adults 65 years and older were greater for ED encounters. Patients frequently visit the ED to seek care for tick bites and suspected LD. Results of ED data analyses can be used to target education, in particular for ED providers and the public through timely distribution of evidence‐based educational materials and training programmes.
Diagnosis of an actively bleeding rectus sheath hematoma by Contrast- Enhanced ultrasound
Authors: Kummer Tobias , Hartman Tyler M. , White Jennifer L.
Published: April 2017

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Ultrasound student education
Authors: Dietrich Christoph F.
Published: April 2017

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Tuning across the BCS-BEC crossover in the multiband superconductor Fe

1+
y

Se

x

Te

1−
x

: An angle-resolved photoemission study
Authors: Rinott Shahar , Chashka K. B. , Ribak Amit , Rienks Emile D. L. , Taleb-Ibrahimi Amina , Le Fevre Patrick , Bertran François , Randeria Mohit , Kanigel Amit
Published: April 2017

A BCS-BEC crossover in a multiband superconductor has been observed experimentally using ARPES.
Direct observation of chiral currents and magnetic reflection in atomic flux lattices
Authors: An Fangzhao Alex , Meier Eric J. , Gadway Bryce
Published: April 2017

Inducing atomic chiral currents and magnetic reflection with artificial magnetic fields in fully synthetic lattices.
Selective control of reconfigurable chiral plasmonic metamolecules
Authors: Kuzyk Anton , Urban Maximilian J. , Idili Andrea , Ricci Francesco , Liu Na
Published: April 2017

DNA origami nanotechnology enables selective reconfiguration of plasmonic quasi-enantiomers through simple pH tuning.
Diversity of Integrative and Conjugative Elements of Streptococcus salivarius and Their Intra- and Interspecies Transfer
Authors: Dahmane Narimane , Libante Virginie , Charron-Bourgoin Florence , Guédon Eric , Guédon Gérard , Leblond-Bourget Nathalie , Payot Sophie
Published: April 2017

Integrative and conjugative elements (ICEs) are widespread chromosomal mobile genetic elements which can transfer autonomously by conjugation in bacteria. Thirteen ICEs with a conjugation module closely related to that of ICE
St3
of
Streptococcus thermophilus
were characterized in
Streptococcus salivarius
by whole-genome sequencing. Sequence comparison highlighted ICE evolution by shuffling of 3 different integration/excision modules (for integration in the 3′ end of the
fda
,
rpsI
, or
rpmG
gene) with the conjugation module of the ICE
St3
subfamily. Sequence analyses also pointed out a recombination occurring at
oriT
(likely mediated by the relaxase) as a mechanism of ICE evolution. Despite a similar organization in two operons including three conserved genes, the regulation modules show a high diversity (about 50% amino acid sequence divergence for the encoded regulators and presence of unrelated additional genes) with a probable impact on the regulation of ICE activity. Concerning the accessory genes, ICEs of the ICE
St3
subfamily appear particularly rich in restriction-modification systems and orphan methyltransferase genes. Other cargo genes that could confer a selective advantage to the cell hosting the ICE were identified, in particular, genes for bacteriocin synthesis and cadmium resistance. The functionality of 2 ICEs of
S. salivarius
was investigated. Autonomous conjugative transfer to other
S. salivarius
strains, to
S. thermophilus
, and to
Enterococcus faecalis
was observed. The analysis of the ICE-
fda
border sequence in these transconjugants allowed the localization of the DNA cutting site of the ICE integrase.

IMPORTANCE
The ICE
St3
subfamily of ICEs appears to be widespread in streptococci and targets diverse chromosomal integration sites. These ICEs carry diverse cargo genes that can confer a selective advantage to the host strain. The maintenance of these mobile genetic elements likely relies in part on self-encoded restriction-modification systems. In this study, intra- and interspecies transfer was demonstrated for 2 ICEs of
S. salivarius
. Closely related ICEs were also detected
in silico
in other
Streptococcus
species (
S. pneumoniae
and
S. parasanguinis
), thus indicating that diffusion of ICE
St3
-related elements probably plays a significant role in horizontal gene transfer (HGT) occurring in the oral cavity but also in the digestive tract, where
S. salivarius
is present.
Mushroom Emergence Detected by Combining Spore Trapping with Molecular Techniques
Authors: Castaño Carles , Oliva Jonàs , Martínez de Aragón Juan , Alday Josu G. , Parladé Javier , Pera Joan , Bonet José Antonio
Published: April 2017

Obtaining reliable and representative mushroom production data requires time-consuming sampling schemes. In this paper, we assessed a simple methodology to detect mushroom emergence by trapping the fungal spores of the fruiting body community in plots where mushroom production was determined weekly. We compared the performance of filter paper traps with that of funnel traps and combined these spore trapping methods with species-specific quantitative real-time PCR and Illumina MiSeq to determine the spore abundance. Significantly more MiSeq proportional reads were generated for both ectomycorrhizal and saprotrophic fungal species using filter traps than were obtained using funnel traps. The spores of 37 fungal species that produced fruiting bodies in the study plots were identified. Spore community composition changed considerably over time due to the emergence of ephemeral fruiting bodies and rapid spore deposition (lasting from 1 to 2 weeks), which occurred in the absence of rainfall events. For many species, the emergence of epigeous fruiting bodies was followed by a peak in the relative abundance of their airborne spores. There were significant positive relationships between fruiting body yields and spore abundance in time for five of seven fungal species. There was no relationship between fruiting body yields and their spore abundance at plot level, indicating that some of the spores captured in each plot were arriving from the surrounding areas. Differences in fungal detection capacity by spore trapping may indicate different dispersal ability between fungal species. Further research can help to identify the spore rain patterns for most common fungal species.

IMPORTANCEMushroom monitoring represents a serious challenge in economic and logistical terms because sampling approaches demand extensive field work at both the spatial and temporal scales. In addition, the identification of fungal taxa depends on the expertise of experienced fungal taxonomists. Similarly, the study of fungal dispersal has been constrained by technological limitations, especially because the morphological identification of spores is a challenging and time-consuming task. Here, we demonstrate that spores from ectomycorrhizal and saprotrophic fungal species can be identified using simple spore traps together with either MiSeq fungus-specific amplicon sequencing or species-specific quantitative real-time PCR. In addition, the proposed methodology can be used to characterize the airborne fungal community and to detect mushroom emergence in forest ecosystems.
Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease-Causing Vibrio parahaemolyticus Strains Maintain an Antibacterial Type VI Secretion System with Versatile Effector Repertoires
Authors: Li Peng , Kinch Lisa N. , Ray Ann , Dalia Ankur B. , Cong Qian , Nunan Linda M. , Camilli Andrew , Grishin Nick V. , Salomon Dor , Orth Kim
Published: April 2017

Acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) is a newly emerging shrimp disease that has severely damaged the global shrimp industry. AHPND is caused by toxic strains of
Vibrio parahaemolyticus
that have acquired a “selfish plasmid” encoding the deadly binary toxins PirA
vp
/PirB
vp
. To better understand the repertoire of virulence factors in AHPND-causing
V. parahaemolyticus
, we conducted a comparative analysis using the genome sequences of the clinical strain RIMD2210633 and of environmental non-AHPND and toxic AHPND isolates of
V. parahaemolyticus
. Interestingly, we found that all of the AHPND strains, but none of the non-AHPND strains, harbor the antibacterial type VI secretion system 1 (T6SS1), which we previously identified and characterized in the clinical isolate RIMD2210633. This finding suggests that the acquisition of this T6SS might confer to AHPND-causing
V. parahaemolyticus
a fitness advantage over competing bacteria and facilitate shrimp infection. Additionally, we found highly dynamic effector loci in the T6SS1 of AHPND-causing strains, leading to diverse effector repertoires. Our discovery provides novel insights into AHPND-causing pathogens and reveals a potential target for disease control.

IMPORTANCE
Acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) is a serious disease that has caused severe damage and significant financial losses to the global shrimp industry. To better understand and prevent this shrimp disease, it is essential to thoroughly characterize its causative agent,
Vibrio parahaemolyticus
. Although the plasmid-encoded binary toxins PirA
vp
/PirB
vp
have been shown to be the primary cause of AHPND, it remains unknown whether other virulent factors are commonly present in
V. parahaemolyticus
and might play important roles during shrimp infection. Here, we analyzed the genome sequences of clinical, non-AHPND, and AHPND strains to characterize their repertoires of key virulence determinants. Our studies reveal that an antibacterial type VI secretion system is associated with the AHPND strains and differentiates them from non-AHPND strains, similar to what was seen with the PirA/PirB toxins. We propose that T6SS1 provides a selective advantage during shrimp infections.
Isolated duodenal rupture: primary repair without diversion; is it safe? Review of literature
Authors: Telfah Muwaffaq Mezeil
Published: April 2017

Isolated duodenal rupture is a rare injury encountered among children following blunt abdominal trauma. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to decrease the associated morbidity and mortality. The debate is about the optimum operative management. We report a 6-year-old child who presented with acute abdominal pain due to isolated duodenal injury following blunt abdominal trauma. Emergency laparotomy revealed duodenal rupture at the junction of the first and second part of duodenum and absence of any other visceral injuries. The duodenal injury was defined as grade III, that is, involving 75% of the circumference. We opted to perform primary repair of the injured duodenum in two layers alone without diversion. The abdominal cavity was drained using an open system drain next to the repair. Nasogastric and jejunostomy tubes were used postoperatively for gastric decompression and enteral feeding, respectively. The child had an uneventful recovery, was discharged well on the 10th postoperative day and no stenosis was found on long-term follow-up. The debate was whether to repair the defect primarily or to combine the repair with diversion. Early diagnosis, the isolated nature of the duodenal injury and the possibility of minimal contamination favoured primary repair of the defect without diversion. The good outcome attributed to these factors were in agreement with most of the literature.
Gastrocolic fistula in a child following corrosive acid ingestion
Authors: DCunha Aureen Ruby , Jehangir Susan
Published: April 2017

Gastrocolic fistulas in children are most commonly seen after placement of a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy. We present a 14-year-old girl who developed a gastrocolic fistula following accidental corrosive acid ingestion. On evaluation of her symptoms, a barium swallow identified the gastrocolic fistula. It healed spontaneously in 3 months. This was both unexpected and remarkable. To the best of our knowledge this is the first case of a gastrocolic fistula occurring following corrosive ingestion.
Paraneoplastic jaundice and prostate cancer
Authors: Vieira Ana Claudia , Alvarenga Maria Joana , Santos Jose Carlos , Silva Alberto Mello
Published: April 2017

Cholestasis has numerous causes. We present the case of a 78-year-old man with a common diagnosis in this age group and gender but with an unusual presentation. There are only 11 articles published of patients with jaundice due to a paraneoplastic syndrome associated with prostate cancer. Interleukin 6 and other proinflammatory cytokines appear to contribute to the pathophysiology of this syndrome. Our patient remains symptom free 4 months after treatment initiation.
Lethal high: acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) triggered by toxic effect of synthetic cannabinoidblack mamba
Authors: Samra Kiran , Boon Ian S , Packer Gregory , Jacob Saiju
Published: April 2017

A previously well 25-year-old man presented with agitation, double incontinence and left-sided incoordination. His symptoms started after smoking a synthetic cannabinoid (black mamba) 5 days earlier. Over 48 hours, he developed aphasia, generalised hypertonia, hyper-reflexia and dense left hemiparesis. This progressed to profuse diaphoresis, fever, tachycardia, hypertension and a possible seizure necessitating admission to the intensive care unit. CT head and cerebrospinal fluid analysis were unremarkable. MRI brain demonstrated asymmetric multifocal hyperintense lesions in white and grey matter, which raised suspicions of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM). An electroencephalogram showed widespread brain wave slowing, indicating diffuse cerebral dysfunction. Cerebral angiogram was normal. Toxicology analysis of the substance confirmed a potent synthetic cannabinoidNM2201, technically legal at the time. The patient made a slow but significant recovery after a course of intravenous methylprednisolone, intravenous immunoglobulins and oral steroids, and was later transferred to a rehabilitation bed.
Simultaneous transient global amnesia and right MCA stroke after Valsalva manoeuvre
Authors: Mariaca Ariel Fernando , Valdueza Jose Manuel , Gaebel Christian , Gomez-Choco Manuel
Published: April 2017

A 61-year-old man suffered an episode of transient confusion and anterograde amnesia after a Valsalva-related manoeuvre. The MRI diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) sequences showed a left hippocampal and two right parietal lesions that were deemed as acute. The MR angiography disclosed a high-grade stenosis in the right middle cerebral artery as was described by a transcranial colour-coded ultrasound as well. Ultrasound investigation of the jugular veins showed a right jugular venous reflux after a Valsalva manoeuvre. The patient was diagnosed with transient global amnesia based on clinical grounds and the right parietal lesions were considered as silent strokes. The Valsalva manoeuvre could have played as a common trigger for both diseases.