bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Severe endometriosis in a young woman with unexpected end-organ failure
Authors: Waters Natasha , Kent Andrew , Rockall Timothy , Hussain Fuad
Published: March 2015

Clinicians are increasingly faced with women who delay pregnancy until later in life, a significant proportion of whom seek treatment for severe heavy menstrual bleeding. This case describes a case of heavy menstrual bleeding in a 41-year-old women with a fibroid uterus who initially wishes to preserve her fertility. It describes the progressive treatment ladder for symptomatic uterine fibroids suggested by the clinician as in cases where symptoms fail to respond to initial therapy or recur after a period of time. In particular, the challenge of counselling for uterine artery embolization with respect to fertility, as well as risks of repeated surgery in a woman with previous intra-abdominal surgery (in this case, 3 previous caesarean sections) is highlighted.
Pregnancy of unknown location: a diagnostic and management dilemma
Authors: Merritt Sarah , Hamilton Judith
Published: March 2015

Whilst abdominal pain in early pregnancy is a common symptom, ectopic pregnancy must be suspected in all women presenting with pain in early pregnancy, in the absence of confirmed ultrasound diagnosis of intra-uterine pregnancy. This case describes a case of persistent pregnancy of unknown location (PUL), and highlights the role of serum markers such as BHCG and progesterone to aid diagnosis and management, as well as the importance of managing cases such as these in dedicated early pregnancy units. With a clinically healthy patient, a common error is inappropriately early follow-up, given that the majority of outcomes of PUL’s need time to manifest themselves, to avoid potentially unnecessary intervention. This case builds on recommendations provided by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence on how to manage inconclusive cases such as this one.
Pre-implantation genetic diagnosis in oligozoospermia
Authors: Bickerstaff Helen , Seshadri Srividya , Ledger William
Published: March 2015

Infertility is a common cause for gynaecological consultation, with male factor infertility the most common cause. This case illustrates the importance of thorough history taking and examination in any couple presenting with infertility. In this case a clinical diagnosis of congenital unilateral absence of the vas deferens prompted genetic testing of both partners, and identified the risk of a pregnancy affected by cystic fibrosis. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) followed by prenatal genetic diagnosis (PGD) of the resulting embryo allowed the couple, both carriers of a mutation of the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Regulator (CFTR) gene, to achieve a successful healthy pregnancy.
Recurrent miscarriage: is conservative management the best we can offer?
Authors: Tang Ai-Wei , Greer Ian
Published: March 2015

The management of women with recurrent miscarriage (3 or more consecutive miscarriages) remains challenging, particularly the inability to identify a clear cause in the majority of cases, and lack of proven intervention. All too often, clinicians are tempted to order an indiscriminate battery of tests for these women which guide neither prognosis nor treatment, rather than undertake a thorough clinical assessment and targeted investigation. Moreover, such women are often recommended treatment which lacks clear evidence for benefit. Describing a case of a woman who suffers 5 consecutive miscarriages, this case explores the evidence base behind various laboratory tests, imaging studies, and treatments for recurrent miscarriage, as well as the need for further research in this area.
‘Rescue’ cerclage after bulging membranes at 22 weeks: delaying the inevitable?
Authors: Hezelgrave Natasha , Shennan Andrew , Lee Geraint
Published: March 2015

This case describes a case of cervical shortening (and resultant fetal bulging membranes) in a pregnancy following a cervical large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ). Whilst there is a strong evidence base behind the use of cervical cerclage in the presence of a short cervix with a history of previous premature birth, the use of rescue cerclage once bulging membranes have been diagnosed is controversial. Whilst it has been shown to prolong pregnancy in small studies, there is concern as to whether this translates into improved fetal outcome. In particular, whether the insertion of a rescue suture may result in the survival of a more damaged baby, either by virtue of lower gestational age (intervention further stimulating the inflammatory process), or by the increased risk of chorioamnionitis and neonatal sepsis. This case reviews the evidence base behind investigations and interventions to predict and to prevent prematurity, and benefits from expert neonatology input.
Early-onset fetal growth restriction
Authors: Story Lisa , Wang Sze Jean , Johnstone Ed , Marlow Neil
Published: March 2015

Fetal growth restriction is an obstetric condition associated with significant morbidity and mortality. This case describes a case of severe early onset fetal growth restriction, first recognized at a routine anomaly scan and which necessitated early delivery by caesarean section at 29 weeks’ gestation. As the case unfolds, the aetiology of FGR is explored, the principles behind fetal surveillance using ultrasound are explained, and the difficulties in optimizing timing of delivery are discussed. Expert commentary from a neonatologist gives the obstetrician insight into the immediate and longer-term challenges and prognosis of severely growth restricted infants.
Dilemmas of preterm birth
Authors: Abbott Danielle , Shennan Andrew , Marlowe Neil
Published: March 2015

Preterm birth is a global health problem which poses dilemmas for both the obstetrician and neonatologist, and it may be associated with severe complications for mother and baby. This case describes a case of preterm rupture of membranes, chorioamnionitis, and subsequent premature delivery. As the case unfolds, the text provides a useful dialogue to discuss the complexities encountered in managing preterm labour and delivery, including the use of antibiotics in the antenatal and perinatal period, current opinions surrounding group B streptococcal prophylaxis, evidence base for drugs to improve neonatal outcome, and optimal mode of delivery.
SLE in pregnancy: lupus nephritis flare or pre-eclampsia—a diagnostic challenge
Authors: Gray Gabriella , Nelson-Piercy Catherine
Published: March 2015

Systemic lupus erythematous (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder, which affects 0.05 % of the population, with peak incidence in women during their childbearing years. It is associated with poor obstetric outcomes and risk of disease flare during pregnancy and the postpartum period. This case describes a pregnant woman with known SLE complicated by lupus nephritis. As the pregnancy progresses, the case highlights the importance of close monitoring of renal function, antibody titres, and for potential pregnancy complications. In particular, the difficulty of differentiating between pre-eclampsia and worsening of renal disease is highlighted, given that a flare may be associated with thrombocytopenia, proteinuria, and hypertension.
Early-onset preeclampsia: balancing maternal and neonatal morbidity
Authors: Chandiramani Manju , Waugh Jason , Fizwilliams Ben
Published: March 2015

Characterized by new-onset hypertension and proteinuria, pre-eclampsia is thought to complicate approximately 4 % of pregnancies. This case of severe early-onset pre-eclampsia necessitating delivery at 27 weeks’ gestation illustrates the difficulty in balancing risk of prematurity-related complications with maternal risk. Alongside the case, the case provides a comprehensive overview of the evidence for use of drug agents to prevent pre-eclampsia (aspirin and calcium), as well as those commonly prescribed to treat hypertension and pre-eclampsia. Furthermore, the risk of complications in the postnatal period is highlighted.
Post-menopausal bleeding
Authors: Vivian-Taylor Josephine , Luesley David
Published: March 2015

Endometrial cancer is the most common gynaecological malignancy in the developed world, and most commonly presents with post-menopausal bleeding This case describes a case of endometrioid endometrial carcinoma in a 60-year-old woman who underwent a total abdominal hysterectomy, bilateral salpino-oophorectomy, and bilateral pelvic lymphadenectomy. The case provides a useful dialogue through which to explore current controversies such as routine intraoperative pelvic lymphadenectomy, open versus minimally invasive surgical techniques, and fertility-sparing procedures.
Recurrent ovarian cancer
Authors: Chatterjee Jayanta , Asher Viren , Fotopoulou Christina , Kitchener Henry , Blagden Sarah
Published: March 2015

Cervical cancer remains a disease of the developing world, as the UK national screening programme has heavily impacted on UK incidence rates. HPV and smoking remain key risk factors for the disease. Whilst most cases of cervical cancer are histologically squamous cell carcinoma, this case describes the more aggressive and rarer form of adenocarcinoma in a 25-year-old woman. As she proceeds through the regional gynae-oncology multidisciplinary process, the authors describe the conventional technique of examination under anaesthesia followed by the various imaging modalities including the use of pelvic MRI to help confirm extent of spread, and PET scan to evaluate lymph node involvement.

This case is an excellent example of the treatment challenges faced by both surgeon and patient, in the treatment of a young woman who wishes to conserve fertility.
Cervical cancer
Authors: Chatterjee Jayanta , Thumuluru Kavitha Madhuri , Pubudu Pathiraja , Kehoe Sean , Fotopoulou Christina
Published: March 2015

Cervical cancer remains a disease of the developing world, as the UK national screening programme has heavily impacted on UK incidence rates. HPV and smoking remain key risk factors for the disease. Whilst most cases of cervical cancer are histologically squamous cell carcinoma, this case describes the more aggressive and rarer form of adenocarcinoma in a 25-year-old woman. As she proceeds through the regional gynae-oncology multidisciplinary process, the authors describe the conventional technique of examination under anaesthesia followed by the various imaging modalities including the use of pelvic MRI to help confirm extent of spread, and PET scan to evaluate lymph node involvement.

This case is an excellent example of the treatment challenges faced by both surgeon and patient, in the treatment of a young woman who wishes to conserve fertilit
Combinatorial Analysis of mRNA Expression Patterns in Mouse Embryos Using Hybridization Chain Reaction
Authors: Huss David , Choi Harry M.T. , Readhead Carol , Fraser Scott E. , Pierce Niles A. , Lansford Rusty
Published: March 2015

Multiplexed fluorescent hybridization chain reaction (HCR) and advanced imaging techniques can be used to evaluate combinatorial gene expression patterns in whole mouse embryos with unprecedented spatial resolution. Using HCR, DNA probes complementary to mRNA targets trigger chain reactions in which metastable fluorophore-labeled DNA HCR hairpins self-assemble into tethered fluorescent amplification polymers. Each target mRNA is detected by a probe set containing one or more DNA probes, with each probe carrying two HCR initiators. For multiplexed experiments, probe sets for different target mRNAs carry orthogonal initiators that trigger orthogonal DNA HCR amplification cascades labeled by spectrally distinct fluorophores. As a result, in situ amplification is performed for all targets simultaneously, and the duration of the experiment is independent of the number of target mRNAs. We have used multiplexed fluorescent in situ HCR and advanced imaging technologies to address questions of cell heterogeneity and tissue complexity in craniofacial patterning and anterior neural development. In the sample protocol presented here, we detect three different mRNA targets: Tg(egfp), encoding the enhanced green fluorescent protein (GFP) transgene (typically used as a control); Twist1, encoding a transcription factor involved in cell lineage determination and differentiation; and Pax2, encoding a transcription factor expressed in the mid-hindbrain region of the mouse embryo.
Evaluating Yeast Filamentous Growth at the Single-Cell Level
Authors: Cullen Paul J.
Published: March 2015

Budding yeast can undergo filamentous growth in response to nutrient limitation. Filament formation can be examined under glucose-limiting conditions by the single-cell invasive growth assay, or under nitrogen-limiting conditions with the pseudohyphal growth assay, both described here. The single-cell assay allows robust quantitation of changes in budding pattern and cell length, and most cells in the population show the response. The pseudohyphal growth assay reveals filamentous patterns in larger microcolonies and adjoining subpopulations of cells. Historically, the single-cell assay has been used to study filamentous growth in haploid cells and the pseudohyphal growth assay in diploid cells. However, both assays can be used in either cell type.
Investigating Filamentous Growth and Biofilm/Mat Formation in Budding Yeast
Authors: Cullen Paul J.
Published: March 2015

In response to nutrient limitation, budding yeast can undergo filamentous growth by differentiating into elongated chains of interconnected cells. Filamentous growth is regulated by signal transduction pathways that oversee the reorganization of cell polarity, changes to the cell cycle, and an increase in cell adhesion that occur in response to nutrient limitation. Each of these changes can be easily measured. Yeast can also grow colonially atop surfaces in a biofilm or mat of connected cells. Filamentous growth and biofilm/mat formation require cooperation among individuals; therefore, studying these responses can shed light on the origin and genetic basis of multicellular behaviors. The assays introduced here can be used to study analogous behaviors in other fungal species, including pathogens, which require filamentous growth and biofilm/mat formation for virulence.
Disturbance opens recruitment sites for bacterial colonization in activated sludge
Authors: Vuono David C. , Munakata‐Marr Junko , Spear John R. , Drewes Jörg E.
Published: March 2015

Little is known about the role of immigration in shaping bacterial communities or the factors that may dictate success or failure of colonization by bacteria from regional species pools. To address these knowledge gaps, the influence of bacterial colonization into an ecosystem (activated sludge bioreactor) was measured through a disturbance gradient (successive decreases in the parameter solids retention time) relative to stable operational conditions. Through a DNA sequencing approach, we show that the most abundant bacteria within the immigrant community have a greater probability of colonizing the receiving ecosystem, but mostly as low abundance community members. Only during the disturbance do some of these bacterial populations significantly increase in abundance beyond background levels and in few cases become dominant community members post‐disturbance. Two mechanisms facilitate the enhanced enrichment of immigrant populations during disturbance: (i) the availability of resources left unconsumed by established species and (ii) the increased availability of niche space for colonizers to establish and displace resident populations. Thus, as a disturbance decreases local diversity, recruitment sites become available to promote colonization. This work advances our understanding of microbial resource management and diversity maintenance in complex ecosystems.
Are Older Workers Past Their Sell‐by‐Date? A View from UK Age Discrimination Law
Authors: Dewhurst Elaine
Published: March 2015

This article assesses the effectiveness of United Kingdom age discrimination law in protecting older workers from claims that they are less productive and perform more poorly than younger workers. The article assesses employer perceptions and the incompatibility of such perceptions with existing research and the current interpretation of age discrimination law by the CJEU and the Supreme Court which accords with such research. The effectiveness of age discrimination law in practice is assessed through an analysis of existing compensation reduction rules. The article concludes that the existing rules which allow for a reduction in compensation payable where there is a chance that the same outcome would have been reached in the absence of discrimination (the ‘chance model’) reduces the effectiveness of the existing protections. A move to a ‘certainty model’ would be less speculative, would serve the objectives of anti‐discrimination law and would reduce concerns about compatibility with EU law.
The Chimera of Proportionality: Institutionalising Limits on Punishment in Contemporary Social and Political Systems
Authors: Lacey Nicola , Pickard Hanna
Published: March 2015

The concept of proportionality has been central to the retributive revival in penal theory, and underlies desert theory's normative and practical commitment to limiting punishment. Theories of punishment combining desert‐based and consequentialist considerations also appeal to proportionality as a limiting condition. In this paper we argue that these claims are founded on an exaggerated idea of what proportionality can offer, and in particular fail properly to consider the institutional conditions needed to foster robust limits on the state's power to punish. The idea that appeals to proportionality as an abstract ideal can help to limit punishment is, we argue, a chimera: what has been thought of as proportionality is not a naturally existing relationship, but a product of political and social construction, cultural meaning‐making, and institution‐building. Drawing on evolutionary psychology and comparative political economy, we argue that philosophers and social scientists need to work together to understand how the appeal of the idea of proportionality can best be realised through substantive institutional frameworks under particular conditions.
Commercial Choice of Law in Context: Looking Beyond Rome
Authors: Fons Manuel Penadés
Published: March 2015

English courts are frequently criticised for their flexible approach to the finding of implied choice and the use of the escape clause in the context of the Rome I Regulation/Convention on the law applicable to contractual obligations. This paper argues that such criticism is misplaced. Based on empirical evidence, the article shows that those choice of law decisions are directly influenced by their procedural context and respond to the need to balance the multiple policy issues generated by international commercial litigation. In particular, English decisions need to be assessed in light of three distinct factors: the standard of proof required at different stages of the procedure in England, the national policy to promote England as a center for commercial dispute resolution and the incentives to export English law in certain strategic industries. The use of implied choice and the escape clause to achieve these ends constitutes a legitimate practice that does not frustrate the aims of the EU choice of law regime.
Assessing the Impact of Financial Incentives in Extension Programmes: Evidence From Ireland
Authors: Läpple Doris , Hennessy Thia
Published: March 2015

We evaluate whether the effectiveness of a participatory extension programme changes when an incentive is introduced that financially rewards farmers for participation. Using data from a dairy farm extension programme operated in Ireland, the evaluation assesses whether farmers who joined before the financial incentive was introduced receive larger benefits from the extension programme than farmers who joined after the financial incentive. The results from a propensity score matching analysis reveal that farmers who joined before the incentive significantly improved their farm performance, as measured in gross margins and yields, while farmers who joined after the incentive did not significantly benefit from the extension programme. This implies that the incentive to participate is a windfall gain to these later participants.
Audit of radiation dose delivered in time‐resolved four‐dimensional computed tomography in a radiotherapy department
Authors: Hubbard Patricia , Callahan Jason , Cramb Jim , Budd Ray , Kron Tomas
Published: March 2015

Introduction

To review the dose delivered to patients in time‐resolved computed tomography (4D CT) used for radiotherapy treatment planning.

Methods

4D CT is used at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre since July 2007 for radiotherapy treatment planning using a Philips Brilliance Wide Bore CT scanner (16 slice, helical 4D CT acquisition). All scans are performed at 140 kVp and reconstructed in 10 datasets for different phases of the breathing cycle. Dose records were analysed retrospectively for 387 patients who underwent 4D CT procedures between 2007 and 2013.

Results

A total of 444 4D CT scans were acquired with the majority of them (342) being for lung cancer radiotherapy. Volume CT dose index (CTDIvol) as recorded over this period was fairly constant at approximately 20 mGy for adults. The CTDI for 4D CT for lung cancers of 19.6 ± 9.3 mGy (n = 168, mean ± 1SD) was found to be 63% higher than CTDIs for conventional CT scans for lung patients that were acquired in the same period (CTDIvol 12 ± 4 mGy, sample of n = 25). CTDI and dose length product (DLP) increased with increasing field of view; however, no significant difference between DLPs for different indications (breast, kidney, liver and lung) could be found. Breathing parameters such as breathing rate or pattern did not affect dose.

Conclusion

4D CT scans can be acquired for radiotherapy treatment planning with a dose less than twice the one required for conventional CT scanning.
metaxa2: improved identification and taxonomic classification of small and large subunit rRNA in metagenomic data
Authors: Bengtsson‐Palme Johan , Hartmann Martin , Eriksson Karl Martin , Pal Chandan , Thorell Kaisa , Larsson Dan Göran Joakim , Nilsson Rolf Henrik
Published: March 2015

The ribosomal rRNA genes are widely used as genetic markers for taxonomic identification of microbes. Particularly the small subunit (SSU; 16S/18S) rRNA gene is frequently used for species‐ or genus‐level identification, but also the large subunit (LSU; 23S/28S) rRNA gene is employed in taxonomic assignment. The metaxa software tool is a popular utility for extracting partial rRNA sequences from large sequencing data sets and assigning them to an archaeal, bacterial, nuclear eukaryote, mitochondrial or chloroplast origin. This study describes a comprehensive update to metaxa – metaxa2 – that extends the capabilities of the tool, introducing support for the LSU rRNA gene, a greatly improved classifier allowing classification down to genus or species level, as well as enhanced support for short‐read (100 bp) and paired‐end sequences, among other changes. The performance of metaxa2 was compared to other commonly used taxonomic classifiers, showing that metaxa2 often outperforms previous methods in terms of making correct predictions while maintaining a low misclassification rate. metaxa2 is freely available from http://microbiology.se/software/metaxa2/.
Arterial Puncture Using Insulin Needle Is Less Painful Than With Standard Needle: A Randomized Crossover Study
Authors: Ibrahim Irwani , Yau Ying Wei , Ong Lizhen , Chan Yiong Huak , Kuan Win Sen
Published: March 2015

Objectives

Arterial punctures are important procedures performed by emergency physicians in the assessment of ill patients. However, arterial punctures are painful and can create anxiety and needle phobia in patients. The pain score of radial arterial punctures were compared between the insulin needle and the standard 23‐gauge hypodermic needle.

Methods

In a randomized controlled crossover design, healthy volunteers were recruited to undergo bilateral radial arterial punctures. They were assigned to receive either the insulin or the standard needle as the first puncture, using blocked randomization. The primary outcome was the pain score measured on a 100‐mm visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, and secondary outcomes were rate of hemolysis, mean potassium values, and procedural complications immediately and 24 hours postprocedure.

Results

Fifty healthy volunteers were included in the study. The mean (±standard deviation) VAS score in punctures with the insulin needle was lower than the standard needle (23 ± 22 mm vs. 39 ± 24 mm; mean difference = –15 mm; 95% confidence interval = –22 mm to –7 mm; p < 0.001). The rates of hemolysis and mean potassium value were greater in samples obtained using the insulin needle compared to the standard needle (31.3% vs. 11.6%, p = 0.035; and 4.6 ±0.7 mmol/L vs. 4.2 ±0.5 mmol/L, p = 0.002). Procedural complications were lower in punctures with the insulin needle both immediately postprocedure (0% vs. 24%; p < 0.001) and at 24 hours postprocedure (5.4% vs. 34.2%; p = 0.007).

Conclusions

Arterial punctures using insulin needles cause less pain and fewer procedural complications compared to standard needles. However, due to the higher rate of hemolysis, its use should be limited to conditions that do not require a concurrent potassium value in the same blood sample.
Iodinated Contrast Prior to Thrombolysis Was Not Associated With Worse Intracranial Hemorrhage
Authors: Radecki Ryan P. , Azam Arif , Doshi Pratik B. , Banuelos Rosa C.
Published: March 2015

Objectives

The objective was to assess relative incidence of clinical adverse effects between patients receiving, and not receiving, iodinated contrast prior to thrombolysis.

Methods

This was a retrospective registry review of patients presenting to the emergency department treated with recombinant tissue‐type plasminogen activator (rt‐PA) for acute ischemic stroke between 2004 and 2012. The authors compared the occurrence of all grades of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), and in‐hospital deaths between patients undergoing computed tomographic angiography (CTA) prior to thrombolysis and those who did not.

Results

A total of 1,014 patients were available for analysis meeting inclusion criteria. A total of 473 patients underwent CTA prior to rt‐PA administration. Baseline characteristics were generally similar across groups, excepting fewer signs of acute infarct and old stroke in the CTA group (28.8% vs. 8.5% and 9.9% vs. 3.7%, respectively) and creatinine. Adverse event outcomes were not consistently distributed across the groups. Patients in the CTA group had a similar incidence of any ICH (11.0% vs. 8.1%, p = 0.120), but fewer type II parenchymal hemorrhages (2.1% vs. 4.6%, p = 0.025) and fewer in‐hospital deaths (7.2% vs. 12.6%, p = 0.005).

Conclusions

No consistent harms were observed in association with intravenous iodinated contrast prior to rt‐PA administration. It is reasonable to continue CTA prior to thrombolysis as clinically indicated.
Optimizing Diagnostic Imaging in the Emergency Department
Authors: Mills Angela M. , Raja Ali S. , Marin Jennifer R.
Published: March 2015

While emergency diagnostic imaging use has increased significantly, there is a lack of evidence for corresponding improvements in patient outcomes. Optimizing emergency department (ED) diagnostic imaging has the potential to improve the quality, safety, and outcomes of ED patients, but to date, there have not been any coordinated efforts to further our evidence‐based knowledge in this area. The objective of this article is to discuss six aspects of diagnostic imaging to provide background information on the underlying framework for the 2015 Academic Emergency Medicine consensus conference, “Diagnostic Imaging in the Emergency Department: A Research Agenda to Optimize Utilization.” The consensus conference aims to generate a high priority research agenda for emergency diagnostic imaging that will inform the design of future investigations. The six components herein will serve as the group topics for the conference: 1) patient‐centered outcomes research; 2) clinical decision rules; 3) training, education, and competency; 4) knowledge translation and barriers to image optimization; 5) use of administrative data; and 6) comparative effectiveness research: alternatives to traditional CT use.
Soak and smear: An effective treatment for eczematous dermatoses
Authors: Assarian Zahra , O'Brien Timothy J , Nixon Rosemary
Published: March 2015

Eczematous dermatoses are common inflammatory skin diseases that can be difficult to treat and have a major impact on patients' quality of life and psychological status. Soak and smear is an effective treatment that can eliminate the need for oral steroids and, in chronic situations, other systemic immunosuppressives.
Incidence and morbidity of urinary tract infection in a prospective cohort of children
Authors: Ladomenou Fani , Bitsori Maria , Galanakis Emmanouil
Published: March 2015

Aim

Information on the epidemiology of childhood urinary tract infections (UTIs) is scarce and mostly based on retrospective data. This study investigated incidence rates, morbidity and risk factors for UTIs in a prospective cohort of children.

Methods

We explored UTIs in a representative cohort of 1049 neonates from birth to 6 years of age, using maternal interviews that were verified by hospital records. The majority (88.2%) completed the first‐year, and more than half (56.2%) completed the 6‐year follow‐up.

Results

By 6 years of age, more than 10% of our sample had been affected by UTIs. The cumulative incidence for the first year of life was 3.77%, without significant differences between genders, and for one to 6 years, it was 6.81% and 5.7 times higher in girls than boys. Clinical information was available for 63 children: 25 were hospitalised, 16 suffered recurrences, 10 received prophylaxis, eight had urinary tract malformations, three required surgery, and two had impaired renal function.

Conclusion

UTIs affected approximately 4% and 10% of children by the ages of one and 6 years, respectively, and their incidence was related to gender and age. Morbidity was considerable, recurrences were common, and despite advances in management, long‐term consequences may still be encountered.
Examining Job Crafting from an Interpersonal Perspective: Is Employee Job Crafting Related to the Well‐Being of Colleagues?
Authors: Tims Maria , Bakker Arnold B. , Derks Daantje
Published: March 2015

Individuals engage in job crafting to create a better fit between their job and their preferences, skills, and abilities. However, the individual focus may overlook the impact of job crafting on the job context or well‐being of colleagues. Therefore, an important question that is addressed in this study is whether the crafting of one person is related to the job characteristics and well‐being of a colleague. This study explores the potential negative effects of a seemingly positive strategy for the individual on a colleague. Namely, we predict that when employees decrease their hindering job demands, their colleagues will be more likely to report a higher workload and more conflict. In turn, we hypothesise that colleague reports of workload and conflict are related to colleague burnout. Data were collected among 103 dyads and analyzed with the Actor–Partner Interdependence Model. The results largely supported the hypothesised relationships: Decreasing hindering job demands was positively related to colleague workload and conflict, which, in turn, related positively to colleague burnout. These findings suggest that proactively decreasing hindering job demands not only relates to personal job experiences, but also to colleague job characteristics and well‐being.
Functional gastrointestinal disorders in 35 447 adults and their association with body mass index
Authors: Le Pluart D. , Sabaté J.‐M. , Bouchoucha M. , Hercberg S. , Benamouzig R. , Julia C.
Published: March 2015

Background

Functional gastrointestinal disorders’ (FGIDs) associations with body mass index (BMI) have not been thoroughly investigated in the general population.

Aim

To investigate the overlap between functional dyspepsia (FDy), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional constipation (FC) and functional diarrhoea (FDh) and the relationship between BMI and those diagnoses in a large French adult population.

Methods

Subjects participating in the Nutrinet‐Santé cohort study completed a questionnaire based on Rome III criteria. Anthropometrics, socio‐demographical and lifestyle data were collected via self‐administered questionnaires. Associations between BMI and FGIDs were investigated with multivariate logistic regression.

Results

A total of 35 447 subjects were included in the analysis. Among subjects with FGIDs, 10.4% presented more than one disorder. [FDy coexisted with IBS (23.6%) and FC (15.1%)].

Associations between BMI and FDy differed according to sex. In females, higher odds were observed for underweight and obesity subgroups (OR = 1.26 (95% CI: 0.99–1.59), OR = 1.35 (1.08–1.69), OR = 1.20 (0.81–1.77), OR = 1.47 (0.89–2.42) for underweight, class I, II and III obesity respectively compared with normal BMI), forming a U‐shaped relationship confirmed with nonlinear model (P < 0.001). In females, FDh was associated with BMI [OR = 1.05 (1.03–1.07), P < 0.001]. In males, a negative association between BMI and IBS was observed [OR = 0.97 (0.94–0.99), P=0.04]. Other associations were not significant.

Conclusions

Our study showed an important overlap in FGIDs, supporting the contention of common pathophysiological mechanisms. Relationships between BMI and FGIDs appeared to be sex‐dependent. Interaction by sex in the association between BMI and FGIDs should therefore be further explored.
Predicting historic forest composition using species lists in presettlement land survey records, western New York
Authors: Larsen Chris P. S. , Tulowiecki Stephen J. , Wang Yi‐Chen , Trgovac Andrew B.
Published: March 2015

Questions

Do the species lists (SLs) of presettlement land surveys, little used though available for over two million km in the USA, provide useful information on historic forest composition? Do the bearing trees (BTs) and SLs of pre‐settlement land surveys record similar species and relative abundances? Are relative abundances more similar when species in an SL are given equally weighted relative abundances or rank‐weighted relative abundances?

Location

Temperate broadleaf forest, western New York, US.

Methods

BT and SL data were obtained for the 3 172 953 m of lines surveyed in 1797–9 by the Holland Land Company. The presence and relative abundance of 8394 BTs were compared with 11 192 unique taxon mentions within SLs. Comparisons were made for individual taxa and whole communities, and at the scales of individual line segments and whole town lines. The influence of equal weighting and rank weighting of the SLs on the comparisons was assessed.

Results

The SLs on a line segment typically recorded more taxa than did the BTs. The species present in BTs and SLs on individual line segments were indicated by Cohen's Kappa to have ‘substantial agreement.’ Correlations between BTs and SLs of all taxa on the same town line increased with the number of BTs and SLs on the town line, and when the relative abundances of SL taxa were modelled using rank weighting rather than equal weighting. Correlations between BTs and SLs for individual taxa were higher for taxa that had more BTs. Correlations between BTs and SLs were also higher when the relative abundances of SL taxa were modelled using rank weighting vs equal weighting.

Conclusions

SLs capture greater detail of presettlement forest composition than do BTs. The relative abundance of a taxon mentioned in a presettlement land survey SL can be meaningfully predicted using its rank in an SL and application of a rank weighting model.
Identification of Homogeneous and Heterogeneous Variables in Pooled Cohort Studies
Authors: Cheng Xin , Lu Wenbin , Liu Mengling
Published: March 2015

Pooled analyses integrate data from multiple studies and achieve a larger sample size for enhanced statistical power. When heterogeneity exists in variables’ effects on the outcome across studies, the simple pooling strategy fails to present a fair and complete picture of the effects of heterogeneous variables. Thus, it is important to investigate the homogeneous and heterogeneous structure of variables in pooled studies. In this article, we consider the pooled cohort studies with time-to-event outcomes and propose a penalized Cox partial likelihood approach with adaptively weighted composite penalties on variables’ homogeneous and heterogeneous effects. We show that our method can characterize the variables as having heterogeneous, homogeneous, or null effects, and estimate non-zero effects. The results are readily extended to high-dimensional applications where the number of parameters is larger than the sample size. The proposed selection and estimation procedure can be implemented using the iterative shooting algorithm. We conduct extensive numerical studies to evaluate the performance of our proposed method and demonstrate it using a pooled analysis of gene expression in patients with ovarian cancer.
Parental Cultural Socialization of Mexican‐American Adolescents’ Family Obligation Values and Behaviors
Authors: Tsai Kim M. , Telzer Eva H. , Gonzales Nancy A. , Fuligni Andrew J.
Published: March 2015

The current study examined how parents’ cultural socialization efforts contribute to adolescents’ family obligation values and behaviors and how these processes may depend upon the relational climate at home. Utilizing survey and daily diary methodologies, 428 Mexican‐American adolescents (50% males; Mage = 15 years) and their parents (83% mothers; Mage = 42 years) participated in the study. Adolescents reported on their family obligation values and engagement in family assistance tasks across 14 days. Parents reported on their cultural socialization practices. Results indicated that parental cultural socialization was associated with adolescents’ family obligation values and behaviors when parent–child relationships were low in conflict and high in support. Findings suggest that the transmission of cultural values and practices is best facilitated through positive parent–child relationships.
Genetic associations in PLEKHA7 and COL11A1 with primary angle closure glaucoma: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Shuai Ping , Yu Man , Li Xiulan , Zhou Yu , Liu Xiaoqi , Liu Yuping , Zhang DingDing , Gong Bo
Published: March 2015

Background

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs11024102 in PLEKHA7 and rs3753841 in COL11A1 were identified to be associated with primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG) by a recent large genome‐wide association study. This present study is to evaluate the association of PLEKHA7 rs11024102 and COL11A1 rs3753841 with PACG.

Design

A systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Participants

A total of 25 271 subjects (4895 PACG patients and 20 376 controls) in different ethnicities were tested for PLEKHA7 rs11024102 and COL11A1 rs3753841.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted on studies published up to July 2014. Summary odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals were analysed. Publication bias of the included articles was evaluated using funnel plots and Egger's test.

Main Outcome Measures

OR for the effects of PLEKHA7 rs11024102 and COL11A1 rs3753841 on PACG risk.

Results

Four eligible articles were included in this study for meta‐analysis. The overall result showed that SNPs rs11024102 and rs3753841 were statistically associated with PACG (P < 0.001) in fixed‐effects model. Stratified analyses showed that the association of PLEKHA7 rs11024102 and COL11A1 rs3753841 with PACG was statistically significant in Asian population (including South Indian cohort) (P < 0.001). In Caucasian population, significant association of COL11A1 rs3753841 with PACG was detected (P = 0.004), but PLEKHA7 rs11024102 did not show any association with PACG (P = 0.140).

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis suggests that PLEKHA7 rs11024102 is associated with PACG in Asian population and COL11A1 rs3753841 has a genetic association with the development of PACG both in Caucasian and Asian populations.
Restoration of Oral Function for Adult Edentulous Patients with Ectodermal Dysplasia: A Prospective Preliminary Clinical Study
Authors: Wu Yiqun , Wang Xu Dong , Wang Feng , Huang Wei , Zhang Zhiyong , Zhang Zhiyuan , Kaigler Darnell , Zou Duohong
Published: March 2015

Background

Therapy with zygomatic implants (ZIs) or conventional implants (CIs) has proven to be an effective method to restore oral function for systemically healthy patients. However, it is still a major challenge to fully restore oral function to edentulous adult patients with ectodermal dysplasia (ED).

Purpose

The aim of this study was to determine an effective treatment protocol for restoring oral function using ZIs and CIs to edentulous adult ED patients.

Materials and Methods

Ten edentulous adult ED patients were treated in this study. The treatment protocol involved the following: (1) bone augmentation in the region of the anterior teeth; (2) placement of two ZIs and four CIs in the maxilla, and four CIs in the mandible; (3) fabrication of dental prosthesis; and (4) psychological and oral education. Following treatment of these patients, implant success rates, biological complications, patient satisfaction, and psychological changes were recorded.

Results

Although there was evidence of bone graft resorption in the maxilla, bone augmentation of the mandible was successful in all patients. Nine CIs in the maxilla failed and were removed. All ZIs were successful, and the CIs success rates were 77.50% in the maxilla and 100% in the mandible, with a mean of 88.75%. The mean peri‐implant bone resorption for the CIs ranged from 1.3 ± 0.4 mm to 1.8 ± 0.6 mm, and four cases exhibited gingival hyperplasia in the maxilla and mandible. One hundred percent of the patients were satisfied with the restoration of their oral function, and >50% of the patients exhibited enhanced self‐confidence and self‐esteem.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that oral function can be restored in edentulous adult ED patients using a comprehensive and systematic treatment protocol involving psychological and oral education, bone augmentation, implant placement, and denture fabrication. Despite these positive outcomes, bone augmentation remains challenging in the anterior region of the maxilla for edentulous adult ED patients.
Sequential Healing at Calcium‐ versus Calcium Phosphate‐Modified Titanium Implant Surfaces: An Experimental Study in Dogs
Authors: Favero Riccardo , Botticelli Daniele , Antunes Antonio A. , Martinez Sanchez Roxanna , Caroprese Marino , Salata Luiz A.
Published: March 2015

Purpose

The aim of this paper was to study the sequential healing of bone tissues at implants with different configuration and different modified surfaces.

Materials and Methods

Twelve Beagle dogs were used. Extractions of all teeth from the second premolar to the first molar were performed in both sides of the mandible. After 3 months, full‐thickness flaps were elevated and two implants of different systems and with different surfaces were randomly installed in the premolar region in one side of the mandible. One surface was acid etched and further modified with calcium ions (BTI unicCa®), the other was sandblasted and acid etched plus a nanometer calcium phosphate deposition (3i T3®). The flaps were sutured to allow a fully submerged healing. The surgery on the other side of the mandible and the sacrifices were planned in such a way to obtain biopsies representing the healing after 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks (n = 6 per period).

Results

After 1 and 2 weeks of healing, the mean values of new bone apposition on the implant surfaces were 5.9 ± 3.3% and 29.8 ± 16.0% at BTI unicCa and 4.6 ± 3.3% and 12.4 ± 5.6% at 3i T3, respectively. After 4 and 8 weeks, the percentage increased, being 49.4 ± 8.1% and 63.6 ± 7.3% at BTI unicCa and 40.3 ± 10.0% and 47.3 ± 20.2 at 3i T3, respectively. Differences statistically significant between the two surfaces were found only at the 2‐ and 4‐week observation periods. Concomitantly, the old bone was resorbed at both surfaces from about 15–17% after 1 week to about 4–6% after 8 weeks of healing.

Conclusion

Moderately rough surfaces modified with calcium ions or discrete calcium phosphate nanocrystalline deposition showed similar patterns of sequential healing. Higher new bone percentages were found at BTI unicCa compared with the 3i T3 implants, the difference being statistically significant at 2 and 4 weeks observation.
Function of Nogo‐A/Nogo‐A Receptor in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Xu Ying‐Qi , Sun Zhong‐Qing , Wang Yi‐Tao , Xiao Fei , Chen Mei‐Wan
Published: March 2015

Nogo‐A is a protein inhibiting axonal regeneration, which is considered a major obstacle to nerve regeneration after injury in mammals. Rapid progress has been achieved in new physiopathological function of Nogo‐A in Alzheimer's disease in the past decade. Recent research shows that through binding to Nogo‐A receptor, Nogo‐A plays an important role in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. Particularly, Nogo‐A/Nogo‐A receptors modulate the generation of amyloid β‐protein (Aβ), which is thought to be a major cause of AD. This review describes the recent development of Nogo‐A, Nogo‐A receptor, and downstream signaling involved in AD and pharmacological basis of therapeutic drugs. We concluded the Nogo‐A/Nogo‐A receptor provide new insight into potential mechanisms and promising therapy strategies in AD.
Clinicopathologic findings in (anti‐FcepsilonR1alpha) autoimmune‐related chronic urticaria
Authors: Rojanapremsuk Theera , Kasprowicz Sarah , Schafer Ewa , Story Rachel , Clarke Michael S , Walls Timothy , Snyder Vivian , Gleason Briana C , Thomas Antoinette B , Cibull Thomas
Published: March 2015

Background

One cause of chronic urticaria is autoreactivity which is diagnosed by detecting autoantibodies against the IgE receptor alpha subunit (anti‐Fc R1alpha).

Objective

To compare the histopathologic features of chronic urticaria patients testing positive for anti‐IgE receptor antibody (Ab) to those testing negative.

Methods

Totally, 438 patients with a clinical presentation of chronic urticaria (2011–2013) had anti‐IgE receptor Ab tested and 37 of those patients had skin biopsy. We evaluated microscopic features including: spongiosis, dermal edema, presence of mast cells, density of lymphocytic infiltration, predomination of eosinophils/neutrophils; intravascular neutrophils and presence of vasculitis. The aforementioned features were compared between negative and positive anti‐IgE receptor Ab groups.

Results

Of 37 patients , 69% were women and 31% were men. 49% had positive anti‐IgE receptor Ab and 51% had negative anti‐IgE receptor Ab.

In the positive anti‐IgE receptor Ab group, 83% showed intravascular neutrophils. Eosinophil predominance was identified in 72% and neutrophil predominance was identified in 28%. In the negative anti‐IgE receptor Ab group, 89% showed intravascular neutrophils. Eosinophil predominance was identified in 53% and neutrophil predominance was identified in 47%. There was no evidence of vasculitis in either group.

Conclusion

There were no significant histopathologic differences between the anti‐IgE receptor Ab positive and negative cases. Therefore, serum testing for anti‐IgE receptor Ab is required to identify this subgroup of chronic urticaria patients.