bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First trimester isolated maternal hypothyroxinaemia: adverse maternal metabolic profile and impact on the obstetrical outcome
Authors: Furnica Raluca M. , Gruson Damien , Lazarus John H. , Maiter Dominique , Bernard Pierre , Daumerie Chantal
Published: December 2016

Background

Isolated maternal hypothyroxinaemia (IH) is defined as low maternal FT4 (<5th percentile) and normal thyroid‐stimulating hormone. There is concern on its potential negative effects on the mother and offspring.

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of IH and to assess the consequences of hypothyroxinaemia on the maternal and foetal outcomes.

Subjects and methods

From a total of 1300 consecutive pregnant women recruited during the prenatal screen (mean gestational age, 11·8 weeks), thyroid function parameters were assessed in 879 women. After exclusion of women with T4 supplements, with twin pregnancies and with diabetes, data from 783 women were included. Maternal and neonatal outcomes in 55 selected women with IH and negative thyroid auto‐antibodies without thyroid disorders or pregnancy achieved through assisted reproductive techniques were compared with a selected euthyroid control group (N = 165).

Results

Among the 783 non diabetic singleton pregnant women, 68 women (8·7%) were identified with IH. When compared to the selected euthyroid controls, selected women with hypothyroxinaemia had significantly increased body mass index (BMI) in preconception (P = 0·003), in the first trimester (P = 0·004) and at the time of delivery (P = 0·001). At term, foetal breech presentation and caesarean section rate were significantly higher (P = 0·006 and P = 0·026, respectively) than in the euthyroid controls. A significant increase in macrosomia was also noted (P = 0·026).

Conclusion

The prevalence of hypothyroxinaemia in early pregnancy was of 8·7%. IH is associated with an increased maternal BMI and is related with a risk of breech presentation, a significant increase in macrosomia and caesarean sections. Screening should consider overweight as risk factor for hypothyroxinaemia.
Digital vs. conventional full‐arch implant impressions: a comparative study
Authors: Amin Sarah , Weber Hans Peter , Finkelman Matthew , El Rafie Khaled , Kudara Yukio , Papaspyridakos Panos
Published: December 2016

Purpose

To test whether or not digital full‐arch implant impressions with two different intra‐oral scanners (CEREC Omnicam and True Definition) have the same accuracy as conventional ones. The hypothesis was that the splinted open‐tray impressions would be more accurate than digital full‐arch impressions.

Material and methods

A stone master cast representing an edentulous mandible using five internal connection implant analogs (Straumann Bone Level RC, Basel, Switzerland) was fabricated. The three median implants were parallel to each other, the far left implant had 10°, and the far right had 15° distal angulation. A splinted open‐tray technique was used for the conventional polyether impressions (n = 10) for Group 1. Digital impressions (n = 10) were taken with two intra‐oral optical scanners (CEREC Omnicam and 3M True Definition) after connecting polymer scan bodies to the master cast for groups 2 and 3. Master cast and conventional impression test casts were digitized with a high‐resolution reference scanner (Activity 880 scanner; Smart Optics, Bochum, Germany) to obtain digital files. Standard tessellation language (STL) datasets from the three test groups of digital and conventional impressions were superimposed with the STL dataset from the master cast to assess the 3D deviations. Deviations were recorded as root‐mean‐square error. To compare the master cast with conventional and digital impressions at the implant level, Welch's F‐test was used together with Games–Howell post hoc test.

Results

Group I had a mean value of 167.93 μm (SD 50.37); Group II (Omnicam) had a mean value of 46.41 μm (SD 7.34); Group III (True Definition) had a mean value of 19.32 μm (SD 2.77). Welch's F‐test was used together with the Games–Howell test for post hoc comparisons. Welch's F‐test showed a significant difference between the groups (P < 0.001). The Games–Howell test showed statistically significant 3D deviations for all three groups (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Full‐arch digital implant impressions using True Definition scanner and Omnicam were significantly more accurate than the conventional impressions with the splinted open‐tray technique. Additionally, the digital impressions with the True Definition scanner had significantly less 3D deviations when compared with the Omnicam.
The metabolic syndrome and its components in pediatric survivors of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Bielorai Bella , Weintraub Yael , Hutt Daphna , Hemi Rina , Kanety Hannah , Modan‐Moses Dalit , Goldstein Gal , Hadar Dana , Lerner‐Geva Liat , Toren Amos , Pinhas‐Hamiel Orit
Published: December 2016

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a known complication after hematopoietic stem cell transplantations (HSCT) that contributes to long‐term morbidity. We assessed the prevalence of components of the MetS in pediatric survivors of allogeneic HSCT and identified associated risk factors. Thirty‐eight patients, median age at HSCT, 8.5 years, were evaluated at a median of 3.9 years post‐HSCT. Overweight or obesity was seen in 23.7% of the patients, 15.8% had hypertension, 15.8% had hypertriglyceridemia, and 13% had low high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels according to age and gender. Four (10.5%) met the criteria of MetS; all were transplanted for malignant disease. Twelve patients (31.6%) had at least one component of the MetS. The 5‐year probability of developing components of the MetS revealed that patients with BMI‐Z score ≥0 at HSCT were significantly at higher risk than those with lower BMI‐Z. Patients who developed components of the MetS had higher levels of insulin, homeostasis model assessment, uric acid, leptin, and lower adiponectin levels. Multivariable regression analysis revealed that BMI‐Z‐score >1.036 at time of evaluation was associated with 4.3‐fold increased risk (P=.050) and adiponectin levels ≤6 μg/mL were associated with 6.7‐fold increased risk of develop components of the MetS (P=.007). Overweight and obesity and adiponectin levels may be useful as markers in HSCT survivors.
Psychosocial aspects before and up to 2 years after heart or lung transplantation: Experience of patients and their next of kin
Authors: Ågren Susanna , Sjöberg Trygve , Ekmehag Björn , Wiborg Maj‐Britt , Ivarsson Bodil
Published: December 2016

Background

Psychosocial factors are important for patients undergoing heart (HTx) or lung (LTx) transplantation and for their next of kin (NoK).

Aim

To describe health‐related quality of life (HRQoL; patients only), anxiety, depression, stress, coping ability, and burden (NoK only) for patients and their NoK before and up to 2 years after HTx or LTx.

Design

Adult patients (28 hearts and 26 lungs) and their appointed NoK were surveyed with questionnaires about specific psychosocial topics when they were accepted for the transplantation waiting list and 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after transplantation.

Findings

Patients’ coping ability and self‐perceived health were low at baseline and improved over time after transplantation. However, lung patients took longer time to recover in terms of HRQoL, depression, and stress than heart patients. Similarly, NoK of lung patients experienced a higher burden and more stress 1 year after transplantation than NoK of heart patients.

Conclusions

Healthcare professionals should be aware of the psychosocial challenges patients and their NoK face in daily living and provide support both before and after heart or lung transplantation.
Molecular substitution rate increases with latitude in butterflies: evidence for a trans‐glacial latitudinal layering of populations?
Authors: Schär† Sämi , Vila† Roger , Petrović Andjeljko , Tomanović Željko , Pierce Naomi E. , Nash David R.
Published: December 2016

A well‐documented consequence of repeated global ice ages is the negative relationship between latitude and intraspecific genetic diversity. However, little is known about additional effects of such major climatic events on population genetic structure. Here we studied the phylogeographic structure of five lycaenid butterfly species with varied ecological adaptations, sampled across a latitudinal gradient in the Holarctic region. We found a positive correlation between latitude and substitution rate of mitochondrial DNA sequences in all species investigated. We propose that this result is the signal of increased genetic drift and founder effects during post‐glacial recolonization of northern populations. Given that phylogenetic branch length is the result of a cumulative process over evolutionary time, we hypothesize that a latitudinal layering of populations has generally been maintained during repeated cycles of glaciation, possibly due to a neutral spatial effect and/or local adaptive advantage. This trans‐glacial latitudinal layering could be viewed as a particular case of the more general phenomenon of intraspecific structuring that is created and maintained in a fluctuating environmental gradient.
Forecasting potential routes for movement of endemic birds among important sites for biodiversity in the Albertine Rift under projected climate change
Authors: Bagchi Robert , Hole David G. , Butchart Stuart H. M. , Collingham Yvonne C. , Fishpool Lincoln D. , Plumptre Andrew J. , Owiunji Isaiah , Mugabe Hamlet , Willis Stephen G.
Published: December 2016

The ability of species to shift their distributions in response to climate change may be impeded by lack of suitable climate or habitat between species’ current and future ranges. We examined the potential for climate and forest cover to limit the movement of bird species among sites of biodiversity importance in the Albertine Rift, East Africa, a biodiversity hotspot. We forecasted future distributions of suitable climate for 12 Albertine Rift endemic bird species using species distribution models based on current climate data and projections of future climate. We used these forecasts alongside contemporary forest cover and natal dispersal estimates to project potential movement of species over time. We identified potentially important pathways for the bird species to move among 30 important bird and biodiversity areas (IBAs) that are both currently forested and projected to provide suitable climate over intervening time periods. We examined the relative constraints imposed by availability of suitable climate and forest cover on future movements.

The analyses highlighted important pathways of potential dispersal lying along a north‐south axis through high elevation areas of the Albertine Rift. Both forest availability and climate suitability were projected to influence bird movement through these landscapes as they are affected by future climate change. Importantly, forest cover and areas projected to contain suitable climate in future were often dissociated in space, which could limit species’ responses to climate change. A lack of climatically suitable areas was a far greater impediment to projected movement among IBAs than insufficient forest cover. Although current forest cover appears sufficient to facilitate movement of bird species in this region, protecting the remaining forests in areas also projected to be climatically suitable for species to move through in the future should be a priority for adaptation management.
Nocturnal migrants do not incur higher collision risk at wind turbines than diurnally active species
Authors: Welcker Jorg , Liesenjohann Monique , Blew Jan , Nehls Georg , Grünkorn Thomas
Published: December 2016

Nocturnally migrating birds, particularly passerines, are known to be vulnerable to collision with man‐made structures such as buildings, towers or offshore platforms, yet information with respect to wind farms is ambiguous. We recorded bird flight intensities using radar during autumn migration at four wind farms situated within a major migration flyway in northern Germany and simultaneously conducted systematic searches for collision fatalities at the same sites. We found that migration traffic rates at rotor height estimated by radar observations were significantly higher during the night, yet strictly nocturnal migrants constituted only 8.6% of all fatalities at the wind farms. In contrast to the situation at other vertical structures, nocturnal migrants do not have a higher risk of collision with wind energy facilities than do diurnally active species, but rather appear to circumvent collision more effectively.
Simultaneous separation and determination of 15 organic UV filters in sunscreen cosmetics by HPLC–ESI‐MS/MS
Authors: Meng X. , Ma Q. , Bai H. , Wang Z. , Han C. , Wang C.
Published: December 2016

Objective

A comprehensive methodology for the simultaneous determination of 15 multiclass organic UV filters in sunscreen cosmetics was developed using high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC–ESI‐MS/MS).

Methods

Sunscreen cosmetics of various matrices, such as toning lotion, emulsion, cream and lipstick, were analysed. Ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) was utilized as the extraction technique for sample preparation. The 15 UV filters were chromatographically separated by two groups of mobile phase system on an XBridge C18 analytical column (150 × 2.1 mm I.D., 3.5 μm particle size) and quantified using HPLC–ESI‐MS/MS. The quantitation was performed using the external calibration method.

Results

The established method was validated in terms of linearity, sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, stability, intraday and interday precisions, recovery and matrix effect. The method was also applied for the determination of UV filters in commercial sunscreen cosmetics.

Conclusion

The experimental results demonstrated that the developed method was accurate, rapid and sensitive and can be used for the analytical control of sunscreen cosmetics.
Sirtuin 6 attenuates periapical lesion propagation by modulating hypoxia‐induced chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand 2 production in osteoblasts
Authors: Lee Y.‐L. , Lin S.‐K. , Hou K.‐L. , Kok S.‐H. , Lai E. H.‐H. , Wang H.‐W. , Chang J. Z.‐C. , Yang H. , Hong C.‐Y.
Published: December 2016

Aim

To investigate the attenuating effect of sirtuin 6 (SIRT6) on hypoxia‐induced production of chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2) by osteoblasts and the relevance of this action on the pathogenesis of periapical lesions.

Methodology

Sirtuin 6 was overexpressed in MC3T3‐E1 murine osteoblasts by lentivirus‐mediated gene transfer. The relationship between the antiglycolytic/antioxidative activities of SIRT6 and its effect on hypoxia‐induced CCL2 production were examined. Pathogenetic relevance of the actions of SIRT6 was assessed in a rat model of induced apical periodontitis. The data were analysed statistically using Student's t‐test or one‐way analysis of variance (anova) and then a Tukey's multiple comparison test.

Results

In cultured murine osteoblasts, 24‐h hypoxic treatment significantly enhanced the generation of reactive oxygen species (P = 0.003), expression of lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) and production of lactate (P = 0.007). A reciprocal effect between hypoxia‐induced redox imbalance and hypoxia‐enhanced glycolysis was noted which in turn augmented the secretion of CCL2. Through its antiglycolytic and antioxidative effects, SIRT6 blocked the vicious cycle to suppress CCL2 production. In normal periapical tissues of rats, strong expression of SIRT6 and low levels of LDHA and 8‐OHdG (a marker of oxidative DNA damage) were found in osteoblasts. In induced apical periodontitis, osteoblastic expression of SIRT6 was significantly suppressed (P = 0.001) which was associated with significantly elevated levels of LDHA (P = 0.003) and 8‐OHdG (P = 0.004) and significantly enhanced recruitment of macrophages (P = 0.004).

Conclusions

Sirtuin 6 has a therapeutic effect on periapical lesions through suppression of CCL2 synthesis. The anti‐inflammatory action of SIRT6 is closely related to its regulatory activities in cellular metabolism and redox homoeostasis.
Physical and mental health inequalities between native and immigrant Swedes
Authors: Ranjbar Vania , Fornazar Robin , Ascher Henry , Ekberg‐Jansson Ann , Hensing Gunnel
Published: January 2017

To study health inequalities between native and immigrant Swedes, we investigated differences in self‐rated health (SRH), mental wellbeing (MW), common symptoms (CS), and persistent illness (PI), and if socioeconomic status (SES), negative status inconsistency, or social support could account for such differences. A secondary analysis was conducted on questionnaire data from a random adult population sample of 4,023 individuals and register data from Statistics Sweden. χ2 tests and binary logistic regressions were used to identify health differences and study these after accounting for explanatory variables. Compared with natives, immigrants more commonly reported negative status inconsistency, poorer SES, and poorer social support as well as poor SRH, very poor MW, and high level of CS but not PI. Significant differences were accounted for by work‐related factors and social support. We encourage future research to address how pre‐ and peri‐migration factors relate to immigrants’ post‐migration SES, social support, and health status.

Policy Implications

Given the relationship between work‐related factors (employment status, hours worked per week, and income) and all health outcomes in this study, labour market interventions that facilitate the integration of immigrants into the labour market, and into occupations that better correspond with their capacity, will arguably have public health benefits.

Feelings of loneliness was, in our study, important in accounting for immigrants’ poorer self‐rated health compared with natives’. Therefore, we endorse interventions that facilitate immigrants’ social networking and integration and thereby reduce feelings of loneliness.

Common physical and mental symptoms may be important indicators of health and we, thus, suggest these to be taken into account when developing ill‐health prevention programmes.
Isolation and high‐dimensional phenotyping of gastrointestinal immune cells
Authors: David Bruna A. , Rubino Stephen , Moreira Thais G. , Freitas‐Lopes Maria Alice , Araújo Alan M. , Paul Nicole E. , Rezende Rafael M. , Menezes Gustavo B.
Published: December 2016

The gastrointestinal immune system plays a pivotal role in the host relationship with food antigens, the homeostatic microbiome and enteric pathogens. Here, we describe how to collect and process liver and intestinal samples to efficiently isolate and analyse resident immune cells. Furthermore, we describe a step‐by‐step methodology showing how to high‐dimensionally immunophenotype resident leucocytes using cytometry by time‐of‐flight, providing a well‐characterized antibody platform that allows the identification of every leucocyte subset simultaneously. This protocol also includes instructions to purify and cultivate primary murine hepatocytes, a powerful tool to assess basic cell biology and toxicology assays. Gut and liver samples from the same mouse can be collected, processed and stained in less than 6 hr. This protocol enables the recovery of several populations of purified and viable immune cells from solid and fibrous organs, preventing unwanted loss of adherent cells during isolation.
Enhanced electric conductivity of polymer‐derived SiCN ceramics by microwave post‐treatment
Authors: Shao Gang , Peng Wenfeng , Ma Chao , Zhao Wanyu , Guo Jingxia , Feng Yuqi , Wang Hailong , Zhang Rui , An Linan
Published: December 2016

The effect of microwave treatment on the electric conductivity and structure of a polymer‐derived SiCN ceramic is studied. It is found that the conductivity of the microwave‐treated sample is about 40 times higher than that of the conventional heat‐treated one at the same temperature and dwell time conventionally. The X‐ray diffraction patterns show that both samples are amorphous without obvious crystallization. Raman analysis reveals that the microwave‐treated sample exhibited a narrower full width at half maximum and upper‐shift of G peak. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy spectra show that there is a significant sp3‐to‐sp2 transition of free carbon in the microwave‐treated sample. These results suggest that the microwave‐treatment can induce a distinct structure evolution of the free carbon, which contributes to the remarkable enhancement of the conductivity of the sample.
Viscosity of glass‐forming systems
Authors: Zheng Qiuju , Mauro John C.
Published: December 2016

As one of the most important properties of glass‐forming liquids, viscosity has drawn significant attention in both glass manufacturing and fundamental research. We review the recent scientific progress in viscosity of glass‐forming systems, including both the liquid and glassy states. After the Vogel‐Fulcher‐Tammann (VFT) equation was introduced, many more efforts have been made to develop more accurate models to describe the temperature dependence of viscosity. In addition to the VFT equation, we also discuss three other viscosity models, viz., the Adam‐Gibbs, Avramov‐Milchev, and Mauro‐Yue‐Ellison‐Gupta‐Allan models. We compare the four viscosity models in terms of their theoretical underpinnings and ability to fit measured viscosity curves. The concept of fragility and the universality of the high‐temperature viscosity limit are also discussed. Temperature‐dependent constraint theory is introduced in detail as a powerful tool for predicting the composition dependence of viscosity. Some examples of the application of this approach to predict the glass transition temperature and fragility of various glass systems are shown. Topological constraint theory is not only of scientific interest, but also has important industrial applicability. We also discuss the thermal history dependence of viscosity in the glassy state. Some phenomenological models are briefly reviewed, while the main focus is given to the modified Mauro‐Allan‐Potuzak model, which can accurately predict the nonequilibrium viscosity as a function of temperature, thermal history, and composition. The correlation of viscosity with elasticity is described in terms of the shoving model. Some theoretical implications of the various viscosity models are discussed, including the concepts of the Kauzmann paradox and the ideal glass transition. Some of the evidence against the existence of these phenomena are discussed. We also review the link between glass relaxation and viscosity, that is, emphasizing that the viscosity equations presented in this review can also be used to model different types of relaxation effects based on the Maxwell relation.
Focal Impulse and Rotor Modulation for the Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation: Locations and 1 Year Outcomes of Human Rotors Identified Using a 64‐Electrode Basket Catheter
Authors: TILZ ROLAND RICHARD , LIN TINA , RILLIG ANDREAS , HEEGER CHRISTIAN‐H. , SCHOLZ LEONIE , WOHLMUTH PETER , BUCUR TUDOR , METZNER ANDREAS , MATHEW SHIBU , WISSNER ERIK , OUYANG FEIFAN , KUCK KARL‐HEINZ
Published: December 2016

Rotor Locations and 1 Year Outcomes of FIRM Ablation

Introduction

Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is currently the gold standard for catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF). The mechanism for AF‐maintenance is still controversial. The concept of rapidly activating spiral rotors perpetuating AF has led to the development of several rotor‐mapping systems. We present our experience with focal impulse and rotor modulation (FIRM) using a 64‐electrode basket catheter and computational system and evaluate its feasibility in conjunction with PVI to treat AF.

Methods and Results

Twenty‐five patients underwent FIRM mapping and ablation to treat AF (paroxysmal = 10, 40%). A basket catheter was used for rotor identification within the right atrium (RA) then left atrium (LA). Radiofrequency energy was applied at and around each rotor core for 300 seconds and rotor‐mapping and ablation was repeated until all rotors were eliminated before circumferential PVI was performed. Three (1.0, 4.0) rotors were identified per patient, predominantly in the LA (LA = 59). Note that 7/59 left‐sided rotors were located 8/59 at the PV antrum. Twelve (48%) patients had either AF termination (termination = 6/12) or conversion to another rhythm, or cycle length (CL) prolongation ≥10% after rotor ablation. After a single procedure, 13 (52%) patients were free of atrial tachyarrhythmia after a follow‐up period of 13 ± 1 months.

Conclusion

Early results suggest that FIRM‐ablation can terminate AF in a significant number of patients. Rotors were frequently identified in the PVs and PV antrum, supporting PVI as the cornerstone of AF ablation.
Emerging role of HMGB1 in lung diseases: friend or foe
Authors: Ding Junying , Cui Xuran , Liu Qingquan
Published: December 2016

Lung diseases remain a serious problem for public health. The immune status of the body is considered to be the main influencing factor for the progression of lung diseases. HMGB1 (high‐mobility group box 1) emerges as an important molecule of the body immune network. Accumulating data have demonstrated that HMGB1 is crucially implicated in lung diseases and acts as independent biomarker and therapeutic target for related lung diseases. This review provides an overview of updated understanding of HMGB1 structure, release styles, receptors and function. Furthermore, we discuss the potential role of HMGB1 in a variety of lung diseases. Further exploration of molecular mechanisms underlying the function of HMGB1 in lung diseases will provide novel preventive and therapeutic strategies for lung diseases.
Continued Use of Warfarin in Veterans with Atrial Fibrillation After Dementia Diagnosis
Authors: Orkaby Ariela R. , Ozonoff Al , Reisman Joel I. , Miller Donald R. , Zhao Shibei , Rose Adam J.
Published: December 2016

Objectives

To determine the effectiveness of warfarin in older adults with dementia.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Department of Veterans Affairs national healthcare system.

Participants

Veterans aged 65 and older (73% aged ≥75, 99% male, 91% white) who had been receiving warfarin for nonvalvular atrial fibrillation for at least 6 months, were newly diagnosed with dementia in fiscal year 2007 or 2008, and were not enrolled in Medicare Advantage (n = 2,572).

Measurements

The onset of dementia was defined according to International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, code. Participants were followed for up to 4 years for persistence of warfarin therapy, anticoagulation control, major hemorrhage, ischemic stroke, and all‐cause mortality.

Results

The average CHADS2 score was 3.3 ± 1.3. After a diagnosis of dementia, 405 individuals (16%) persisted on warfarin therapy. Unadjusted Cox proportional hazards analysis demonstrated a protective effect of warfarin in prevention of ischemic stroke (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.64, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.46–0.89, P = .008), major bleeding (HR = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.55–0.94, P = .02), and all‐cause mortality (HR = 0.66, 95% CI = 0.55–0.79, P < .001). Using propensity score matching, the protective effect of continuing warfarin persisted in prevention of stroke (HR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.54–0.996, P = .047) and mortality (HR = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.60–0.87, P < .001), with no statistically significant decrease in risk of major bleeding (HR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.61–1.01, P = .06).

Conclusion

Discontinuing warfarin after a diagnosis of dementia is associated with a significant increase in stroke and mortality.
Outcomes of Treated Hypertension at Age 80 and Older: Cohort Analysis of 79,376 Individuals
Authors: Delgado João , Masoli Jane A. H. , Bowman Kirsty , Strain W. David , Kuchel George A. , Walters Kate , Lafortune Louise , Brayne Carol , Melzer David , Ble Alessandro ,   As part of the Ageing Well Programme of the NIHR School for Public Health Research, England
Published: December 2016

Objectives

To estimate outcomes according to attained blood pressure (BP) in the oldest adults treated for hypertension in routine family practice.

Design

Cohort analysis of primary care inpatient and death certificate data for individuals with hypertension.

Setting

Primary care practices in England (Clinical Practice Research Datalink).

Participants

Individuals aged 80 and older taking antihypertensive medication and free of dementia, cancer, coronary heart disease, stroke, heart failure, and end‐stage renal failure at baseline.

Measurements

Outcomes were mortality, cardiovascular events, and fragility fractures. Systolic BP (SBP) was grouped in 10‐mmHg increments from less than 125 to 185 mmHg or more (reference 145–154 mmHg).

Results

Myocardial infarction hazards increased linearly with increasing SBP, and stroke hazards increased for SBP of 145 mmHg or greater, although lowest mortality was in individuals with SBP of 135 to 154 mmHg. Mortality of the 13.1% of patients with SBP less than 135 mmHg was higher than that of the reference group (Cox hazard ratio=1.25, 95% confidence interval=1.19–1.31; equating to one extra death per 12.6 participants). This difference in mortality was consistent over short‐ and long‐term follow‐up; adjusting for diastolic BP did not change the risk. Incident heart failure rates were higher in those with SBP less than 125 mmHg than in the reference group.

Conclusion

In routine primary care, SBP less than 135 mmHg was associated with greater mortality in the oldest adults with hypertension and free of selected potentially confounding comorbidities. Although important confounders were accounted for, observational studies cannot exclude residual confounding. More work is needed to establish whether unplanned SBPs less than 135 mmHg in older adults with hypertension may be a useful clinical sign of poor prognosis, perhaps requiring clinical review of overall care.
Kallikrein‐related peptidase expression in odontogenic cysts and tumors: An immunohistochemical comparative study
Authors: Darling Mark Roger , Woodford Rebecca , Cuddy Karl Kevin , Jackson‐Boeters Linda , Hayter Alyssa , Inkaran Jeyanth , Diamandis Eleftherios P. , Khan Zia
Published: January 2017

Aim

The aim of the present study was to profile the expression of human kallikrein (KLK)‐related peptidases (KLK) in odontogenic lesions.

Methods

Paraffin‐embedded, formalin‐fixed, non‐odontogenic (control) and odontogenic lesions were stained for KLK using a standard immunohistochemical technique. The intensity and proportion of epithelial cells stained was scored. Reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction was utilized to evaluate KLK 1‐15 mRNA expression in ameloblastomas.

Results

KLK 3, 4, 9, 11, and 14 were present in all lesions. KLK 3 staining was increased in ameloblastomas and keratocystic odontogenic tumors. KLK 5 was present only in Keratocystic odontogenic tumor. KLK 6 was significantly higher in ameloblastomas than in other lesions. For KLK 7, keratocystic odontogenic tumors and nasopalatine duct cysts were significantly different. KLK 6, 8, 10, 11, and 13 were significantly higher in ameloblastomas than in other lesions. KLK 9 was increased in keratocystic odontogenic tumors and dentigerous cysts. The expression of KLK 1, 4, 7, 8, 10, and 12 mRNA was found in ameloblastomas.

Conclusion

The results suggested that KLK 6, 8, 10, and 13 could be involved in the progression of ameloblastomas. KLK 10 could have a greater role in odontogenic lesions, rather than non‐odontogenic lesions. Future studies aim to define the specific roles of KLK cascades in odontogenic lesions.
Enzymatic antioxidants status in patients with recurrent aphthous stomatitis
Authors: Zhang Zichuan , Li Shan , Fang Huiqing
Published: January 2017

Background

Oxidative stress (OS) has been thought to play a main role in the etiopathogenesis of recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), which is one of the most common oral mucosal diseases characterized by recurrent and painful oral ulcers. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the enzymatic antioxidants status in patients with RAS in the active stage and remission stage.

Methods

Ninety‐seven patients with idiopathic minor RAS and 102 race‐, age‐ and gender‐matched healthy individuals were recruited. All these subjects were allocated to three groups: RAS patients with active lesion (group A); the same patients in group A in the remission stage of RAS (group B); and healthy individuals without RAS (group C). Following an overnight fast, blood samples were obtained. The serum levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSHPx) were measured by the spectrophotometric method. Independent‐samples t‐test and paired t‐test were performed for statistical evaluation.

Results

The serum levels of SOD, GSHPx, and CAT (83.9 ± 17.1 U/ml, 6687.2 ± 2629.2 U/ml, 1789.7 ± 593.8 U/l) were found to be significantly lower in group A as compared to those of group B (99.8 ± 11.1 U/ml, 9364.1 ± 1607.9 U/ml, 2789.1 ± 1113.4 U/l; P < 0.05) or group C (97.3 ± 12.1 U/ml, 9246.2 ± 2376.1 U/ml, 2819.0 ± 914.8 U/l; P < 0.05). No significant differences were found between group B and group C with respect to any one of these enzymatic antioxidants (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Our results indicate that enzymatic antioxidant defense system is impaired in RAS patients with active lesion and seems to play a crucial role in its pathogenesis.
Influence of Rocksil®, Silifort® and Wollastonite on Penetration and Development of Meloidogyne javanica in Poaceae and Fabaceae
Authors: Mattei Danielle , Dias‐Arieira Claudia Regina , Mendes Lopes Ana Paula , Miamoto Angelica
Published: December 2016

Silicates have the potential to induce disease resistance in plants. Induction of nematode resistance usually results from paralysis of nurse cell development or activation of the hypersensitivity response. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of silicon (Si) treatment on the penetration and development of Meloidogyne javanica in various crops. The experiment was set up in a randomized (3 × 4) + 1 factorial design, with 3 Si sources (Silifort®, Rocksil® and wollastonite), 4 crops (maize, rice, common bean and soybean) and 1 treatment control (distilled water). The Si treatments included adding wollastonite to the soil 10 days prior to seedling transplantation, or spraying with solutions of Silifort® or Rocksil®, 2 days after seedlings transplantation. Twelve days after transplantation, the plants were inoculated with 1000 eggs and eventual second‐stage juveniles (J2) of M. javanica. At 3, 8, 13 and 18 days after inoculation (DAI), the plants were harvested and nematode penetration evaluated by optical microscopy. All Si treatments adversely affected development of M. javanica in soybean, common bean and rice and reduced nematode penetration of rice roots. Silifort® and wollastonite reduced nematode penetration in common bean and soybean roots, respectively. However, none of the Si treatments influenced the variables analysed in maize. The results of this study illustrate the potential of Si treatment to control M. javanica parasitism in plants.
A systematic model improves hepatitis C virus birth cohort screening in hospital‐based primary care
Authors: Goel A. , Sanchez J. , Paulino L. , Feuille C. , Arend J. , Shah B. , Dieterich D. , Perumalswami P. V.
Published: December 2016

Despite national and local governing board recommendations in the United States of America to perform an HCV screening test in baby boomers, screening rates remain low. Our goal was to study the impact of an HCV screening and link‐to‐care programme with patient navigation in two New York City primary care practices. This was a 2‐year prospective study of patients born between 1945‐1965 (“baby boomers”) with encounters at two primary care practices at the Mount Sinai Hospital between November 1, 2013 and November 30, 2015. Baseline HCV screening rates were collected for four months. A multifaceted intervention was sequentially implemented involving electronic alerts, housestaff education, data feedback and patient navigation. HCV screening rates and link to care, defined as attending an appointment with a viral hepatitis specialist, were compared before and after these interventions. There were 14 642 primary care baby boomer patients of which 4419 (30.2%) were newly screened during the study. There was a significant increase in HCV screening rates from 55% to 75% (P<.01) with an HCV seropositive rate of 3.3%. Factors associated with being HCV seropositive included older age (P<.01), male sex (P<.01), African American race (P<.01) and receiving care in the housestaff practice (P<.01). With patient navigation, 78 of 84 (93%) newly diagnosed HCV‐infected persons were referred to a specialist and 60 (77%) attended their first appointment. A structured, multifaceted HCV screening programme using well‐studied principles identifies a large number of undiagnosed baby boomers within hospital‐based primary care and improves access to specialty providers in a timely manner.
Long‐term safety and efficacy of telbivudine in infants born to mothers treated during the second or third trimesters of pregnancy
Authors: Han G.‐R. , Jiang H.‐X. , Wang C.‐M. , Ding Y. , Wang G.‐J. , Yue X. , Zhou L. , Zhao W.
Published: December 2016

Telbivudine, an FDA pregnancy category B drug, has been found to reduce hepatitis B virus (HBV) perinatal transmission with no safety concerns in infants aged up to 1 year. This study evaluated the long‐term efficacy and safety of telbivudine in 214 infants born to 210 pregnant women with chronic hepatitis B infection who were treated with telbivudine during pregnancy (weeks 20‐32 of gestation). The infants were followed for up to 5 years after birth. The efficacy endpoint was the rate of perinatal transmission, which was established by HBsAg and HBV DNA levels at 7 and 12 months. Safety endpoints included head circumference, weight, height, congenital abnormality and hospitalization rates. In addition, the Denver Developmental Screening Test was performed in 92 randomly selected infants. None of the 214 infants born to these women were infected with HBV, and all had effective serum hepatitis B surface antibody (HBsAb) levels. Compared with Chinese standard values, there were few differences in the infants’ mean head circumference, weight, and height values. No birth defects were diagnosed, and the congenital abnormality rate was 0.934%. Serious adverse events requiring hospitalization occurred in 20 infants (9.35%). The qualified Denver Developmental Screening Test rate in 92 infants was 97.82%, which was comparable to a rate of 92% in normal Chinese children. Thus, treatment with telbivudine during the second or third trimesters of pregnancy safely blocked perinatal transmission of HBV. Infants born to telbivudine‐treated mothers showed normal growth and development during long‐term follow‐up of up to 5 years.
Workplace Accidents and Workplace Safety: On Under‐reporting and Temporary Jobs
Authors: Palali Ali , van Ours Jan C.
Published: January 2017

Statistics on workplace accidents do not always reflect workplace safety because workers under‐report for fear of job‐loss if they report having had an accident. Based on an analysis of fatal and non‐fatal workplace accidents and road accidents in 15 EU‐countries over the period 1995–2012, we conclude that there seems to be cyclical fluctuations in reporting of non‐fatal workplace accidents. Workers are less likely to report a workplace accident when unemployment is high. Furthermore, analyzing data from Italy and Spain on both workplace accidents and commuting accidents, we conclude that workers on temporary jobs are likely to under‐report accidents.
Comment on Rieux and Balloux: calibration from tip‐dating can compromise topological accuracy and evolutionary inference
Authors: Emerson Brent C. , Alvarado‐Serrano Diego F. , Hickerson Michael J.
Published: December 2016

We contribute to the recent review of Rieux & Balloux, 2016, Mol. Ecol., 25, 1911 on inferences from tip‐dated phylogenies by developing their discussion on the influence of population size (Ne) under panmixia for the estimation of substitution rate (μ). We highlight how phylogenetic trees inferred with tip‐dated sequences under large panmictic Ne tend to erroneously enforce an age‐based coalescent pattern on the posterior distribution of trees, which in turn results in systematically inflated estimates of μ. We discuss the consequences of this and suggest how to accommodate the issue in the short term and long term.
Evidence of early defects in Cajal–Retzius cell localization during brain development in a mouse model of dystroglycanopathy
Authors: Booler H. S. , Pagalday‐Vergara V. , Williams J. L. , Hopkinson M. , Brown S. C.
Published: December 2016

Aims

The secondary dystroglycanopathies represent a heterogeneous group of congenital muscular dystrophies characterized by the defective glycosylation of alpha dystroglycan. These disorders are associated with mutations in at least 17 genes, including Fukutin‐related protein (FKRP). At the severe end of the clinical spectrum there is substantial brain involvement, and cobblestone lissencephaly is highly suggestive of these disorders. The precise pathogenesis of this phenotype has, however, remained unclear with most attention focused on the disruption to the radial glial scaffold. Here, we set out to investigate whether lesions are apparent prior to the differentiation of the radial glia.

Methods

A detailed investigation of the structural brain defects from embryonic day 10.5 (E10.5) up until the time of birth (P0) was undertaken in the Fkrp‐deficient mice (FKRPKD). Reelin, and downstream PI3K/Akt signalling pathways were analysed using Western blot.

Results

We show that early basement membrane defects and neuroglial ectopia precede radial glial cell differentiation. Furthermore, we identify mislocalization of Cajal–Retzius cells which nonetheless is not associated with any apparent disruption to the reelin, and downstream PI3K/Akt signalling pathways.

Conclusions

These observations identify Cajal–Retzius cell mislocalization as an early event during the development of cortical defects thereby identifying an earlier onset and more complex pathogenesis than originally reported for the secondary dystroglycanopathies. Overall this study provides new insight into central nervous system involvement in this group of diseases.
Flapless piezoelectric surgery in the management of jaw necrosis – a case series
Authors: Patel V. , Patel D. , McGurk M. , Sproat C. , Kwok J.
Published: January 2017

Objective

Bisphosphonates and head and neck radiation are commonly implicated as causative factors for osteonecrosis of the jaw. Once established, no treatment method can guarantee resolution of the condition. Current management consists of a pharmacological approach for early stage necrosis but failure of this leaves only surgical intervention, which carries a risk of antagonising the condition. Piezoelectric surgery provides the opportunity to debride bone without traumatising the overlying soft tissue.

Method

We present a case series of patients (n = 12) who underwent flapless piezoelectric debridement of osteonecrosis of the jaw related to either bisphosphonates or radiation.

Results

Of the 12 patients, 67% (n = 8) of cases had successful healing. Of the remaining four cases partial healing had been noted.

Conclusion

Piezoelectric surgery may have a potential role in minimally invasive surgery for osteonecrosis of the jaw with further addition and refinement of the technique.
Degenerative Joint Diseases and Neuroinflammation
Authors: Fusco Mariella , Skaper Stephen D. , Coaccioli Stefano , Varrassi Giustino , Paladini Antonella
Published: December 2016

Rheumatic and joint diseases, as exemplified by osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, are among the most widespread painful and disabling pathologies across the globe. Given the continuing rise in life expectancy, their prevalence is destined to grow. Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease, is, in particular, on its way to becoming the fourth leading cause of disability worldwide by 2020, with the rising incidence of obesity in addition to age being important factors. It is estimated that 25% of osteoarthritic individuals are unable to perform daily activities. Accompanying osteoarthritis is rheumatoid arthritis, which is a chronic systemic disease that often causes pain and deformity. At least 50% of those affected are unable to remain gainfully employed within 10 years of disease onset. A growing body of evidence now points to inflammation, locally and more systemically, as a promoter of damage to joints and bones, as well as joint‐related functional deficits. The pathogenesis underlying joint diseases remains unclear; however, it is currently believed that cross‐talk between cartilage and subchondral bone—and loss of balance between these two structures in joint diseases—is a critical element. This view is amplified by the presence of mast cells, whose dysregulation is associated with alterations of junction structures (cartilage, bone, synovia, matrix, nerve endings, and blood vessels). In addition, persistent activation of mast cells facilitates the development of spinal neuroinflammation mediated through their interaction with microglia. Unfortunately, current treatment strategies for rheumatic and articular disease are symptomatic and do little to limit disease progression. Research now should be directed at therapeutic modalities that target osteoarticular structural elements and thereby delaying disease progression and joint replacement.
Water‐deficit‐induced changes in transcription factor expression in maize seedlings
Authors: Seeve Candace M. , Cho In‐Jeong , Hearne Leonard B. , Srivastava Gyan Prakash , Joshi Trupti , Smith Dante O. , Sharp Robert E. , Oliver Melvin J.
Published: December 2016

Plants tolerate water deficits by regulating gene networks controlling cellular and physiological traits to modify growth and development. Transcription factor (TF)‐directed regulation of transcription within these gene networks is key to eliciting appropriate responses. In this study, reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT‐qPCR) was used to examine the abundance of 618 transcripts from 536 TF genes in individual root and shoot tissues of maize seedlings grown in vermiculite under well‐watered (water potential of −0.02 MPa) and water‐deficit conditions (water potentials of −0.3 and −1.6 MPa). A linear mixed model identified 433 TF transcripts representing 392 genes that differed significantly in abundance in at least one treatment, including TFs that intersect growth and development and environmental stress responses. TFs were extensively differentially regulated across stressed maize seedling tissues. Hierarchical clustering revealed TFs with stress‐induced increased abundance in primary root tips that likely regulate root growth responses to water deficits, possibly as part of abscisic acid and/or auxin‐dependent signaling pathways. Ten of these TFs were selected for validation in nodal root tips of drought‐stressed field‐grown plants (late V1 to early V2 stage). Changes in abundance of these TF transcripts under a field drought were similar to those observed in the seedling system.