bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carcinosarcoma of the Pancreas
Authors: Ruess Dietrich A. , Kayser Claudia , Neubauer Jakob , Fichtner-Feigl Stefan , Hopt Ulrich T. , Wittel Uwe A.
Published: September 2017

Carcinosarcomas are rare biphasic neoplasms with distinct malignant epithelial and mesenchymal components. Most commonly, carcinosarcomas arise in the uterus as malignant mixed müllerian tumors, but also infrequently appear in other organs such as the ovaries and breast, the prostate and urinary tract, the lungs, or in the gastrointestinal system, among others. Pancreatic carcinosarcomas are exceedingly rare; only a few cases are reported in the English literature. Their pathogenesis remains to be fully clarified. We present here the case of a pancreatic carcinosarcoma with evidence for monoclonality via determination of Kras mutational status after microdissection and suggest a common origin of the 2 tumor components. Comprehensive review of the available literature allows the conclusion that most pancreatic carcinosarcomas appear to be of monoclonal origin and seem to have arisen from a carcinoma via metaplastic transformation of 1 part or subclone of the tumor, probably by epithelial-mesenchymal transition. All reported patients were treated with surgery. Adjuvant therapy, if administered, consisted predominantly of gemcitabine. Prognosis for this neoplasm occurs to be similar or even worse compared with classic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Despite the lack of evidence-based recommendations for its treatment, resection should be performed, if possible.
A Normal Preoperative Lipase Serum Level Is an Easy and Objective Risk Factor of Pancreatic Fistula After Pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Gagnière Johan , Abjean Adeline , Franz Martin , Aumont Ophélie , Pereira Bruno , Dupré Aurélien , Veziant Julie , Le Roy Bertrand , Boyer Louis , Pezet Denis , Buc Emmanuel
Published: September 2017

Objectives

The evaluation of the risk of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) after pancreaticoduodenectomy is crucial to optimize perioperative strategies. Many risk factors of POPF have been identified and were included in scores. Performances of these scores have to be improved because of the use of subjective and/or intraoperative factors. We tried to identify new risk factors of POPF that could improve the performance of validated scores.

Methods

We analyzed data from a prospective database of 191 consecutive patients who underwent a pancreaticoduodenectomy. Recorded data included a comprehensive inventory of pre-, intra- and postoperative clinical, biological and radiological data.

Results

The rate of POPF was significantly increased in patients with a normal preoperative lipase serum level (LSL) (29.8% vs 6.8%; P = 0.001). After multivariate analysis, a normal preoperative LSL was a strong independent risk factor of both POPF (odds ratio, 7.06; P = 0.001) and clinically relevant POPF (odds ratio, 3.11; P = 0.036). The addition of the normality of the preoperative LSL to the Fistula Risk Score significantly improved its performance (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

A normal preoperative LSL was a strong, easy, and objective preoperative risk factor of POPF. Its addition to the Fistula Risk Score improved its performance and allows a more accurate evaluation of the risk of POPF.
Bile Acid Synthesis Disorders in Arabs: A 10-year Screening Study
Authors: Al-Hussaini Abdulrahman A. , Setchell Kenneth D.R. , AlSaleem Badr , Heubi James E. , Lone Khurram , Davit-Spraul Anne , Jacquemin Emmanuel
Published: September 2017

Objectives:

Early diagnosis of bile acid synthesis disorders (BASDs) is important because, untreated, these conditions can be fatal. Our objectives were to screen children with cholestasis or unexplained liver disease for BASD and in those with confirmed BASD to evaluate the effectiveness of cholic acid therapy.

Methods:

A routine serum total bile acid measurement was performed on children with cholestasis, liver cirrhosis, and liver failure. Patients were screened for BASD by fast atom bombardment ionization-mass spectrometry (FAB-MS) analysis of urine, and molecular analysis confirmed diagnosis. Treatment response to oral cholic acid (10–15 mg/kg bw/day) was assessed from liver function tests and fat-soluble vitamin levels. FAB-MS analysis of urine was used to monitor compliance and biochemical response.

Results:

Between 2007 and 2016, 626 patients were evaluated; 450 with infantile cholestasis. Fifteen cases of BASD were diagnosed: 12 presented with infantile cholestasis (2.7%, 7 boys), an 8-year-old boy presented with cirrhosis, and two 18-month-old boys presented with hepatomegaly and rickets. Eleven were caused by 3β-hydroxy-Δ5-C27-steroid oxidoreductase dehydrogenase deficiency, 3 from Δ4-3-oxosteroid 5β-reductase deficiency, and 1 had Zellweger spectrum disorder. In all but 1, serum total bile acids were normal or low. With cholic acid therapy, 10 are alive and healthy with their native liver. Liver failure developed in 3 infants despite therapy; 2 died and 1 underwent liver transplantation.

Conclusions:

BASDs are rare but treatable causes of metabolic liver disease in Saudi Arabia. BASD should be considered in infants with cholestasis and low or normal serum total bile acid concentrations.
Efficacy of a Clinic-Based Safer Sex Program for Human Immunodeficiency Virus–Uninfected and Human Immunodeficiency Virus–Infected Young Black Men Who Have Sex With Men: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Crosby Richard A. , Mena Leandro , Salazar Laura F. , Hardin James W. , Brown Tim , Vickers Smith Rachel
Published: September 2017

Objective

To test the efficacy of a single-session, clinic-based intervention designed to promote condom use among young black men who have sex with men (YBMSM).

Methods

Six hundred YBMSM were enrolled in a randomized controlled trial, using a 12-month observation period. An intent-to-treat analysis was performed, with multiple imputation for missing data.

Results

Compared with the reference group, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–infected men in the intervention group had 64% greater odds of reporting consistent condom use for anal receptive sex over 12 months (estimated odds ratio, 1.64; 95% confidence interval, 1.23–2.17, P = 0.001). Also, compared with the reference group, HIV-uninfected men in the intervention group had more than twice the odds of reporting consistent condom use for anal receptive sex over 12 months (estimated odds ratio, 2.14; 95% confidence interval, 1.74–2.63, P < 0.001). Significant intervention effects relative to incident sexually transmitted diseases were not observed.

Conclusions

A single-session, clinic-based, intervention may help protect HIV-uninfected YBMSM against HIV acquisition and HIV-infected YBMSM from transmitting the virus to insertive partners.
Neurosyphilis: Knowledge Gaps and Controversies
Authors: Tuddenham Susan , Ghanem Khalil G.
Published: September 2017

After reaching a nadir at the turn of the century, syphilis rates in the United States have increased since 2000. Treponema pallidum may disseminate to the central nervous system within hours to days after inoculation. In this review, we focus on knowledge gaps and areas of controversy in neurosyphilis epidemiology, diagnosis, and management. Modern estimates of the prevalence of neurosyphilis are hindered by the lack of consistent reporting data and are based on relatively small retrospective cohort studies. The various diagnostic modalities for neurosyphilis have significant limitations. Although several novel biomarkers for neurosyphilis have been evaluated, none to date have found a place in clinical practice. The role of a cerebrospinal fluid examination in patients without neurological symptoms continues to be an area of controversy, whereas the data for the use of antibiotic regimens other than intravenous aqueous or intramuscular procaine penicillin for the treatment of neurosyphilis are limited. As syphilis incidence continues to increase unabated in many countries around the world, it is critical to address these gaps of knowledge.
Cryotherapy Reduces Progression of Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia Grade 1 in South African HIV-Infected Women: A Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors: Firnhaber Cynthia , Swarts Avril , Goeieman Bridgette , Rakhombe Ntombi , Mulongo Masangu , Williamson Anna-Lise , Michelow Pam , Ramotshela Sibongile , Faesen Mark , Levin Simon , Wilkin Timothy
Published: September 2017

Background:

HIV-infected women are at an increased risk of cervical cancer, especially in resource-limited countries. Cervical cancer prevention strategies focus treating cervical high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL). The management of low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL) in HIV-infected women is unknown.

Setting:

HIV treatment clinic in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Methods:

We randomized HIV-infected women with histologic cervical LSIL to cervical cryotherapy vs. no treatment (standard of care). Cervical high-risk human papillomavirus testing (hrHPV) was performed at baseline. All women underwent cervical cytology and colposcopic biopsies 12 months after enrollment. The primary end point was HSIL on histology at month 12. Chi-square was used to compare arms.

Results:

Overall, 220 HIV-infected women were randomized to cryotherapy (n = 112) or no treatment (n = 108). Median age was 38 years, 94% were receiving antiretroviral therapy; median CD4 was 499 cells per cubic millimeter, and 59% were hrHPV positive. Cryotherapy reduced progression to HSIL: 2/99 (2%) in the cryotherapy arm and 15/103 (15%) in the no treatment arm developed HSIL, 86% reduction (95% confidence interval: 41% to 97%; P = 0.002). Among 17 HSIL end points, 16 were hrHPV+ at baseline. When restricting the analysis to hrHPV+ women, HSIL occurred in 2/61 (3%) in the cryotherapy arm vs. 14/54 (26%) in the no treatment arm, 87% reduction (95% confidence interval: 47% to 97%; P = 0.0004). Participants in the cryotherapy arm experienced greater regression to normal histology and improved cytologic outcomes.

Conclusions:

Treatment of cervical LSIL with cryotherapy decreased progression to HSIL among HIV-infected women especially if hrHPV positive. These results support treatment of LSIL in human papillomavirus test-and-treat approaches for cervical cancer prevention in resource-constrained settings.
Analysis of bacterial genomes from an evolution experiment with horizontal gene transfer shows that recombination can sometimes overwhelm selection
Authors: Maddamsetti Rohan , Lenski Richard E.
Published: September 2017

We analyzed genomes from an experiment in whichEscherichia coliK-12 Hfr donors were periodically introduced into 12 evolving populations ofE. coliB. Previous work showed that recombination did not increase adaptation, despite increasing variation relative to asexual controls. The effects of recombination were highly variable: one lineage was mostly derived from the donors, while another acquired almost no donor DNA. In most lineages, some regions showed repeated introgression and others almost none. Regions with high introgression tended to be near the donors origin of transfer sites. To determine whether introgressed alleles imposed a genetic load, we extended the experiment for 200 generations without recombination and sequenced whole-population samples. Beneficial alleles in the recipient populations were occasionally driven extinct by maladaptive donor-derived alleles. On balance, our analyses indicate that the plasmid-mediated recombination was sufficiently frequent to drive donor alleles to fixation without providing much, if any, selective advantage.
Evaluation of Convolutionary Neural Networks Modeling of DNA Sequences using Ordinal versus one-hot Encoding Method
Authors: Choong Allen Chieng Hoon , Lee Nung Kion
Published: September 2017

Convolutionary neural network (CNN) is a popular choice for supervised DNA motif prediction due to its excellent performances. To employ CNN, the input DNA sequences are required to be encoded as numerical values and represented as either vectors or multi-dimensional matrices. This paper evaluates a simple and more compact ordinal encoding method versus the popular one-hot encoding for DNA sequences. We compare the performances of both encoding methods using three sets of datasets enriched with DNA motifs. We found that the ordinal encoding performs comparable to the one-hot method but with significant reduction in training time. In addition, the one-hot encoding performances are rather consistent across various datasets but would require suitable CNN configuration to perform well. The ordinal encoding with matrix representation performs best in some of the evaluated datasets. This study implies that the performances of CNN for DNA motif discovery depends on the suitable design of the sequence encoding and representation. The good performances of the ordinal encoding method demonstrates that there are still rooms for improvement for the one-hot encoding method.
Phenological responses to multiple environmental drivers under climate change: insights from a long-term observational study and a manipulative field experiment
Authors: Wadgymar Susana M. , Ogilvie Jane E. , Inouye David W. , Weis Arthur E. , Anderson Jill T.
Published: September 2017

Climate change has induced pronounced shifts in the reproductive phenology of plants, with the timing of first flowering advancing in most species. Indeed, population persistence may be threatened by the inability to track climate change phenologically. Nevertheless, substantial variation exists in biological responses to climate change across taxa. Here, we explore the consequences of climate change for flowering phenology by integrating data from a long-term observational study and a manipulative experiment under contemporary conditions. Dissecting the environmental factors that influence phenological change will illuminate why interspecific variation exists in responses to climate change. We examine a 43-year record of first flowering for six species in subalpine meadows of Colorado in conjunction with a 3-year snow manipulation experiment on the perennial mustardBoechera strictafrom the same site. We analyze shifts in the onset of flowering in relation to environmental drivers known to influence phenology: the timing of snowmelt, the accumulation of growing degree days, and photoperiod. At our study site, climate change is reducing snowpack and advancing the timing of spring snowmelt. We found that variation in phenological responses to climate change depended on the sequence in which species flowered, with early-flowering species flowering faster, at a lower heat sum, and under increasingly disparate photoperiods in comparison to species that flower later in the season. Furthermore, climate change is outpacing phenological change for all species. Early snow removal treatments confirm that the timing of snowmelt governs observed trends in flowering phenology ofB. strictaand that climate change can reduce the probability of flowering, thereby depressing fitness. Shorter-term studies would not have captured the trends that we document in our observational and experimental datasets. Accurate predictions of the biological responses to climate change require a thorough understanding of the specific environmental factors driving shifts in phenology.
Intercultural challenges in managing workplace conflict – a call for research
Authors: Brett Jeanne
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss cultural causes of conflict in the workplace and call for research to address what happens when cultures collide generating workplace conflict. The author assumes that because cultures differ in terms of functional solutions to problems of social interaction that there will be conflict when people from different cultures are interdependent in the workplace. The author discusses types of culture and their conflict management profiles with respect to three characteristics of conflict management: direct vs indirect confrontation; emotional expression, and third party conflict management. The author proposes what happens when cultures collide and calls for research on those collisions.

Design/methodology/approach

Application of the cultural literature on self-worth to three elements of workplace conflict: direct vs indirect confrontation of conflict, feelings and expressions of negative emotions associated with conflict and timing and type of third party intervention.

Findings

When people from dignity, face, and honor cultures are working together the fundamental differences in the logic of self-worth in these three types of culture may cause conflict. People from dignity and honor cultures are likely to confront conflict directly, while those from face cultures are more likely to confront conflict indirectly. Workplace conflict generates negative emotions, but culture seems to affect whether that emotion is anger, shame or both. The timing of third party intervention into workplace conflict, that is, how managers intervene in workplace conflict has some parallels with how community mediators act in that culture.

Research limitations/implications

There is limited research comparing management of workplace conflict in dignity, face, and honor cultures. The author generates propositions and suggests a research strategy for collecting data to test propositions.

Practical implications

Understanding what is culturally normative in terms of self-worth, confrontation, emotional expression, and managerial intervention can help people involved in workplace conflict understand what they are experiencing. It can also help managers intervene effectively.

Social implications

How people react to workplace conflict varies with culture as does how managers intervene. Knowing this provides people with the first element of cultural intelligence that may help them manage conflict to facilitate a more creative and effective multicultural work environment.

Originality/value

This paper integrates theory and research from cross-cultural psychology, the psychology of emotion and the literature on third party intervention into community conflict to explain the patterns of cultural conflict and conflict management in the workplace. It also suggests what it may take to manage cultural conflict in the workplace successfully.
Biosynthesis and function of simple amides in Xenorhabdus doucetiae
Authors: Bode Edna , He Yue , Vo Tien Duy , Schultz Roland , Kaiser Marcel , Bode Helge B.
Published: September 2017

Xenorhabdus doucetiae, the bacterial symbiont of the entomopathogenic nematode Steinernema diaprepesi produces several different fatty acid amides. Their biosynthesis has been studied using a combination of analysis of gene deletions and promoter exchanges in X. doucetiae and heterologous expression of candidate genes in E. coli. While a decarboxylase is required for the formation of all observed phenylethylamides and tryptamides, the acyltransferase XrdE encoded in the xenorhabdin biosynthesis gene cluster is responsible for the formation of short chain acyl amides. Additionally, new, long‐chain and cytotoxic acyl amides were identified in X. doucetiae infected insects and when X. doucetiae was grown in Galleria Instant Broth (GIB). When the bioactivity of selected amides was tested, a quorum sensing modulating activity was observed for the short chain acyl amides against the two different quorum sensing systems from Chromobacterium and Janthinobacterium.
Phospholipase D and phosphatidic acid mediate heat stress induced secondary metabolism in Ganoderma lucidum
Authors: Liu Yong‐Nan , Lu Xiao‐Xiao , Chen Dai , Lu Ya‐Ping , Ren Ang , Shi Liang , Zhu Jing , Jiang Ai‐Liang , Yu Han‐Shou , Zhao Ming‐Wen
Published: September 2017

Phospholipid‐mediated signal transduction plays a key role in responses to environmental changes, but little is known about the role of phospholipid signalling in microorganisms. Heat stress (HS) is one of the most important environmental factors. Our previous study found that HS could induce the biosynthesis of the secondary metabolites, ganoderic acids (GA). Here, we performed a comprehensive mass spectrometry‐based analysis to investigate HS‐induced lipid remodelling in Ganoderma lucidum. In particular, we observed a significant accumulation of phosphatidic acid (PA) on HS. Further genetic tests in which pld‐silencing strains were constructed demonstrated that the accumulation of PA is dependent on HS‐activated phospholipase D (PLD) hydrolysing phosphatidylethanolamine. Furthermore, we determined the role of PLD and PA in HS‐induced secondary metabolism in G. lucidum. Exogenous 1‐butanol, which decreased PLD‐mediated formation of PA, reverses the increased GA biosynthesis that was elicited by HS. The pld‐silenced strains partly blocked HS‐induced GA biosynthesis, and this block can be reversed by adding PA. Taken together, our results suggest that PLD and PA are involved in the regulation of HS‐induced secondary metabolism in G. lucidum. Our findings provide key insights into how microorganisms respond to heat stress and then consequently accumulate secondary metabolites by phospholipid remodelling.
Ten Lessons from Ten Years PPP Experience in Belgium
Authors: Willems Tom , Verhoest Koen , Voets Joris , Coppens Tom , Van Dooren Wouter , Van den Hurk Martijn
Published: September 2017

In 2004 Flanders, the northern region of Belgium launched a range of large public–private partnership (PPP) projects for a total value of 6 billion euros. Ten years later, PPP has become a well‐embedded procurement method for long‐term public infrastructure projects. This article makes a critical ‘round‐up’ of PPP experience in Belgium based on the perspectives of infrastructure professionals who were asked to provide their views on performance‐related issues in PPP projects. Two workshops were held to further enrich the input and ideas. Based on this empirical material this article formulates 10 lessons to improve PPP performance, which is deliberately broadly defined. It argues that the dominant ‘value for money’ evaluations, following strictly financial or commercial logics (in both the private and public sectors), need to be broadened. Given the large impact and cost of large infrastructure projects on society, broader societal and spatial contributions of PPPs are needed.
A Randomized Trial of Off‐Site Collaborative Care for Depression in Chronic Hepatitis C Virus
Authors: Kanwal Fasiha , Pyne Jeffrey M. , Tavakoli‐Tabasi Shahriar , Nicholson Susan , Dieckgraefe Brian , Storay Erma , Goetz Matthew Bidwell , Kramer Jennifer R. , Smith Donna , Sansgiry Shubhada , Tansel Aylin , Gifford Allen L. , Asch Steven M.
Published: September 2017

Objective

To test the effectiveness of a collaborative depression care model in improving depression and hepatitis C virus (HCV) care.

Data Sources/Study Setting

Hepatitis C virus clinic patients who screened positive for depression at four Veterans Affairs Hospitals.

Study Design

We compared off‐site depression collaborative care (delivered by depression care manager, pharmacist, and psychiatrist) with usual care in a randomized trial. Primary depression outcomes were treatment response (≥50 percent decrease in 20‐item Hopkins Symptoms Checklist [SCL‐20] score), remission (mean SCL‐20 score, <0.5), and depression‐free days (DFDs). Primary HCV outcome was receipt of HCV treatment.

Data Collection

Patient data were collected by self‐report telephone surveys at baseline and 12 months, and from electronic medical records.

Principal Findings

Baseline screening identified 292 HCV‐infected patients with depression, and 242 patients completed 12‐month follow‐up (82.9 percent). Intervention participants were more likely to report depression treatment response, remission, and more DFDs than usual care participants. Intervention participants were more likely to receive antiviral treatment; however, the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Off‐site depression collaborative care improved depression outcomes in HCV patients and may serve as a model for collaboration between mental health and specialty physical health providers in other high co‐occurring conditions.
Fluctuating levels of personal role engagement within the working day: A multilevel study
Authors: Fletcher Luke , Bailey Catherine , Gilman Mark W.
Published: September 2017

In this diary study, we examined a theoretical model in which the psychological conditions of meaningfulness, availability, and safety serve as mechanisms through which the work context during discrete situations within the workday influences “state” engagement. We further theorised that a person's “trait” level of engagement would exert cross‐level effects on the state level relationships. Multilevel analyses based on a sample of 124 individuals in six organisations and 1,446 situational observations revealed that meaningfulness and availability (but not safety) mediated the relationships between perceptions of the work context and state engagement. High levels of trait engagement strengthened the within‐person relation between availability and state engagement, yet weakened the within‐person relation between meaningfulness and state engagement, suggesting two different processes may be at play. Overall, the findings advance our understanding of engagement as a multilevel and temporally dynamic psychological phenomenon and promote a contextually based HRM approach to facilitating engagement.
Biofilm Formation and Its Relationship with the Molecular Characteristics of Food‐Related Methicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
Authors: Vergara Alberto , Normanno Giovanni , Di Ciccio Pierluigi , Pedonese Francesca , Nuvoloni Roberta , Parisi Antonio , Santagada Gianfranco , Colagiorgi Angelo , Zanardi Emanuela , Ghidini Sergio , Ianieri Adriana
Published: September 2017

The capability to produce biofilm is an important persistence and dissemination mechanism of some foodborne bacteria. This paper investigates the relationship between some molecular characteristics (SCCmec, ST, spa‐type, agr‐type, cna, sarA, icaA, icaD, clfA, fnbA, fnbB, hla, hlb) of 22 food‐related methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains and their ability to form biofilm on stainless steel and polystyrene. Five (22.7%, 5/22) strains were able to synthesize biofilm on polystyrene, and one of these (4.5%, 1/22) strains was also able to synthesize biofilm on stainless steel. The largest amount of biofilm was formed on polystyrene by 2 MRSA strains isolated from cows’ milk, thus raising concern about the dairy industry. The majority of MRSA biofilm producers carried SCCmec type IVa, suggesting that the presence of SCCmecIVa and/or agr type III could be related to the ability to form biofilm. In conclusion, in order to achieve an acceptable level of food safety, Good Hygiene Practices should be strictly implemented along the food chain to reduce the risk of colonization and dissemination of MRSA biofilm‐producing strains in the food industry.

Practical Application

In this study, some assayed isolates of food‐related MRSA demonstrated the capacity to form biofilm. Biofilm formation differed according to surface characteristics and MRSA strains. A relationship was observed between some molecular characteristics and the ability to form biofilms. Few studies have investigated the ability of MRSA to form biofilms, and the majority of these studies have investigated clinical aspects. This work was performed to investigate whether or not there is a difference between MRSA food isolates and MRSA clinical isolates in their ability to form biofilm. These initial findings could provide information that will contribute to a better understanding of these aspects.
Influence of Technological Treatments on the Functionality of Bifidobacterium lactis INL1, a Breast Milk‐Derived Probiotic
Authors: Zacarías María Florencia , Souza Tassia Costa , Zaburlín Natalia , Carmona Cara Denise , Reinheimer Jorge , Nicoli Jacques , Vinderola Gabriel
Published: September 2017

The aim of this study is to evaluate the influence of the technological processing on the functionality of the human breast milk probiotic strain Bifidobacterium lactis INL1. In vitro antagonistic activity of B. lactis INL1 was detected for Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative pathogens. B. lactis INL1 was administered to mice as fresh (F), frozen (Z), spray‐dried (S), or lyophilized (L) culture. Immune parameters (IgA, IL‐10, and IFN‐γ) were determined and histological analysis was performed to assess functionality and protection capacity against Salmonella. In BALB/c mice, F and S cultures induced an increase in the number of IgA‐producing cells in the small intestine and IL‐10 levels were increased for L culture in the large intestine. In Swiss mice, B. lactis INL1 increased secretory‐IgA levels in the small intestine before and after Salmonella infection, both as F or dehydrated culture. Also, an attenuation of damage in the intestinal epithelium and less inflammatory infiltrates were observed in animals that received F and S cultures, whereas in liver only F showed some effect. The anti‐inflammatory effect was confirmed in both tissues by myeloperoxidase activity and by IFN‐γ levels in the intestinal content. B. lactis INL1 showed inhibitory activity against pathogens and confirmed its probiotic potential in animal models. Technological processing of the probiotic strain affected its functionality.

Practical Application

This work provides evidence about the influence of technology on the functionality of probiotics, which may help probiotics and functional food manufacturers to take processing into consideration when assessing the functionality of new strains.
Design and evaluation of cryodevice, an easy to use apparatus for maintenance of optimum temperature during cryoglobulin assay
Authors: Veerasubramanian Praveen K. , Kabeerdoss Jayakanthan , Sandhya Pulukool , Devasahayam Suresh , Danda Debashish
Published: September 2017

Introduction

Maintenance of temperature during collection and transport of blood is an important pre‐requisite for cryoglobulin assays. In this manuscript, we describe ‘cryodevice’, a low‐cost device for transportation and/or incubation of vials of whole blood at 37°C. Such a device would reduce false negatives in cryoglobulin assays.

Method

The ‘cryodevice’ takes the embodiment of a portable, light, insulated water bath, which can be used as an incubator in a plugged‐in state, or as a transport container after it is set up and disconnected from the power supply. The design of the cryodevice is described here, with focus on its construction and electronic control circuit. Computer simulations and in vitro trials were performed to study the temperature drop in the blood samples placed in the device. Subsequently, the cryodevice was also used with actual patient blood samples.

Results

Thermal simulations and in vitro testing of the cryodevice predicted that the design would meet the temperature maintenance goals. When the cryodevice was put in to use for screening 45 patient blood samples, it helped identify positive cryoglobulinemia in three of the samples.

Conclusion

The description of the cryodevice envisions enabling the construction of a low‐cost device in resource‐limited healthcare settings in India created with locally available resources. On testing, the device was found to be satisfactory in performance and is expected to bring down incidences of false negatives in cryoglobulin tests.
Channels for Workers' Voice in the Transnational Governance of Labour Rights?
Authors: Zajak Sabrina
Published: September 2017

This article examines the neglected question of workers’ voice in the transnational governance of labour rights. While governance studies often neglect worker's agency and labour studies focus on strikes or collective bargaining, this article takes the theoretical lenses of recursivity to explore and compare new channels for worker participation that developed in the context of transnational governance schemes. Taking the example of the Fair Labor Association, a prominent multistakeholder initiative in the garment industry, the article distinguishes between three channels: workers’ surveys during audits, complaint procedures, and local grievance mediation. Despite the fact that such opportunities count as key innovations for the participation of labour in transnational governance, statistical and qualitative data from FLA's factory audits and self‐conducted interviews show that locally situated actors, especially workers, are only occasionally able to make their voice heard in formally open channels. The article identifies two main sources of constraints: the first is workers’ lack of knowledge of these channels and distrust towards these procedures. This is tied, secondly, to the more fundamental problem that business continues to have interpretative power over the nature of the problems and solutions in transnational labour governance.
Varieties of Recursivity in Transnational Governance
Authors: Malets Olga , Quack Sigrid
Published: September 2017

This special section analyzes the variety of recursivity in transnational regulatory governance. We conceptualize recursivity as a complex cycle through which addressees’ response to transnational rules continuously feeds back into the rulemaking process and triggers rule revision. In the introduction to the special section, we emphasize that recursivity varies across governance organizations and governance fields and develop an analytical framework to capture this variation. We also propose a typology of recursive governance organizations. Finally, we preview five case studies included in the special section and summarize their key findings and conclusions, with particular attention to the implications for accountability and legitimacy.
Foreign Direct Investment and Economic Growth: The Cases of Singapore and Oman
Authors: Eudelle Philipp , Shrestha Ashin
Published: September 2017

Economic growth is associated with improvements in productivity, and increasing productivity is driven by growth in economic efficiency, structural changes and substitutional activities. To raise these factors, innovation and trade are substantial drivers. However, there are many economies with a high potential for economic growth but a lack of domestic investment. Foreign direct investment (FDI) is able to fill the gap between investment needed to promote economic growth, and locally available investments. This article highlights the potential of FDI for small economies using Singapore and Oman as examples.
Research progress on the relationship between zinc deficiency, related microRNAs, and esophageal carcinoma
Authors: Liu Cong‐Min , Liang Di , Jin Jing , Li Dao‐Juan , Zhang Ya‐Chen , Gao Zhao‐Yu , He Yu‐Tong
Published: September 2017

Esophageal cancer (EC) is a common malignant tumor of the gastrointestinal tract with a high incidence in China. Zinc (Zn) deficiency is a key risk factor for the occurrence and development of EC and affects progression by regulating microRNA (miRNA, miR) expression. In addition, the dysregulation of miRNAs is accompanied by the dysregulation of their target genes in EC. In this paper, we review the potential molecular mechanisms between Zn deficiency and EC with the aim of providing new strategies and methods for early diagnosis, targeted therapy, and prognostic evaluation.
Effects of preemptive analgesia with flurbiprofen ester on lymphocytes and natural killer cells in patients undergoing esophagectomy: A randomized controlled pilot study
Authors: Zhou Yi , Huang Jinxi , Bai Yu , Li Changsheng , Lu Xihua
Published: September 2017

Background

Tumors may induce systemic immune dysfunction, which can be aggravated by surgery and anesthesia/analgesia. Data on the effect of flurbiprofen preemptive analgesia on immune dysfunction is limited. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of flurbiprofen preemptive analgesia on lymphocytes and natural killer (NK) cells in patients undergoing thoracotomy and thoracoscopy radical esophagectomy, and to explore the analgesic methods suitable for tumor patients.

Methods

This was a randomized controlled pilot study of 89 patients with esophageal cancer treated with surgery at the Henan Cancer Hospital between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2016. The patients were divided into three groups: group 1, thoracotomy; group 2, thoracoscopy and laparoscopic surgery; and group 3, flurbiprofen, thoracoscopy, and laparoscopic surgery. CD3+, CD19+, NK, CD4+, and CD8+ cells in whole blood were measured by flow cytometry 30 minutes before surgery (T0), at the end of the thoracic section of the procedure (T1), and at the end of the operation (T2).

Results

There were no significant differences in CD3+, CD19+, CD8+, NK, and CD4+ cells between the three groups or regarding the time points during the procedure (all P > 0.05). Thoracotomy and thoracoscopy surgery resulted in similar immunological outcomes.

Conclusion

Flurbiprofen ester preemptive analgesia did not suppress the immune function in patients and could be a safe analgesic method for patients with esophageal cancer undergoing surgery.
Deficiency of CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein homologous protein (CHOP) prevents diet‐induced aortic valve calcification in vivo
Authors: Cai Zhejun , Liu Baoqing , Wei Jia , Fu Zurong , Wang Yidong , Wang Yaping , Shen Jian , Jia Liangliang , Su Shengan , Wang Xiaoya , Lin Xiaoping , Chen Han , Li Fei , Wang Jian'an , Xiang Meixiang
Published: September 2017

Aortic valve (AoV) calcification is common in aged populations. Its subsequent aortic stenosis has been linked with increased morbidity, but still has no effective pharmacological intervention. Our previous data show endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is involved in AoV calcification. Here, we investigated whether deficiency of ER stress downstream effector CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein homology protein (CHOP) may prevent development of AoV calcification. AoV calcification was evaluated in Apoe−/− mice (n = 10) or in mice with dual deficiencies of ApoE and CHOP (Apoe−/−CHOP−/−, n = 10) fed with Western diet for 24 weeks. Histological and echocardiographic analysis showed that genetic ablation of CHOP attenuated AoV calcification, pro‐calcification signaling activation, and apoptosis in the leaflets of Apoe−/− mice. In cultured human aortic valvular interstitial cells (VIC), we found oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (oxLDL) promoted apoptosis and osteoblastic differentiation of VIC via CHOP activation. Using conditioned media (CM) from oxLDL‐treated VIC, we further identified that oxLDL triggered osteoblastic differentiation of VIC via paracrine pathway, while depletion of apoptotic bodies (ABs) in CM suppressed the effect. CM from oxLDL‐exposed CHOP‐silenced cells prevented osteoblastic differentiation of VIC, while depletion of ABs did not further enhance this protective effect. Overall, our study indicates that CHOP deficiency protects against Western diet‐induced AoV calcification in Apoe−/− mice. CHOP deficiency prevents oxLDL‐induced VIC osteoblastic differentiation via preventing VIC‐derived ABs releasing.
Review article: the diagnostic approach and current management of chylous ascites
Authors: Lizaola B. , Bonder A. , Trivedi H. D. , Tapper E. B. , Cardenas A.
Published: September 2017

Background

Chylous ascites is rare, accounting for less than 1% of cases. An appropriate and stepwise approach to its diagnosis and management is of key importance.

Aim

To review the current diagnostic approach and management of chylous ascites.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using PubMed using the key words ‘chylous’, ‘ascites’, ‘cirrhosis’, ‘pathophysiology’, ‘nutritional therapy’, ‘paracentesis”, “transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt” and “TIPSS’. Only articles in English were included.

Results

Chylous ascites is caused by the traumatic or obstructive disruption of the lymphatic system that leads to extravasation of thoracic or intestinal lymph into the abdominal space and the accumulation of a milky fluid rich in triglycerides. The most common causes are malignancy, cirrhosis and trauma after abdominal surgery. This condition can lead to chyle depletion, which results in nutritional, immunologic and metabolic deficiencies. An ascitic triglyceride concentration above 200 mg/dL is consistent with chylous ascites. Treatment is based on management of the underlying cause and nutritional support.

Conclusions

Chylous ascites is mostly due to malignancy and cirrhosis in adults, and congenital lymphatic disorders in children. Treatment with nutritional optimization and management of the underlying etiology are the cornerstones of therapy. When conservative measures fail, other interventions such as octreotide/somatostatin analogues, surgical ligation, embolization and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in patients with cirrhosis can be considered.
Exfoliation rate of mammary epithelial cells in milk on bovine mastitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus is associated with bacterial load
Authors: Nagasawa Yuya , Kiku Yoshio , Sugawara Kazue , Tanabe Fuyuko , Hayashi Tomohito
Published: September 2017

The exfoliation rate of mammary epithelial cells (MECs) in milk is affected by physiological, breeding and environmental factors. Little is known about the relationship between the MEC exfoliation into milk and mammary‐infected Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) load on bovine mastitis caused by S. aureus. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between S. aureus load and the proportion of MEC exfoliation in milk using five substantial bovine mastitis models. In 64 randomly extracted milk samples from udders at 3–21 days after S. aureus infusion, there were various samples with different numbers of S. aureus counts and somatic cell counts. No significant correlations were found between the S. aureus counts and somatic cell count (r = 0.338). In contrast, a significant correlation was noted between S. aureus counts and the proportion of cytokeratin‐positive cells in the milk from the infused udders (r = 0.734, P < 0.01). In conclusion, the increasing MEC exfoliation rate in milk from mastitis udders caused by S. aureus may contribute to reduced milk yield.
Global population pharmacokinetics of the investigational Aurora A kinase inhibitor alisertib in cancer patients: rationale for lower dosage in Asia
Authors: Zhou Xiaofei , Mould Diane R. , Takubo Takatoshi , Sheldon‐Waniga Emily , Huebner Dirk , Milton Ashley , Venkatakrishnan Karthik
Published: September 2017

Aims

This population pharmacokinetic analysis was conducted to describe quantitatively the regional differences and sources of interpatient variability on the apparent oral clearance of alisertib.

Methods

A population pharmacokinetic analysis was performed on data from 671 cancer patients in Western countries and in Japan/East Asia to whom alisertib 5–150 mg once or twice daily (b.i.d.) was administered in multiple dosing schedules. The final model was used to simulate alisertib pharmacokinetics in patients in the West and East Asian regions in the single‐agent schedule of 7 days of dosing in a 21‐day cycle. Exposure–safety relationships for mechanism‐related antiproliferative toxicities (neutropenia, mucositis and diarrhoea) were estimated by logistic regression.

Results

Alisertib pharmacokinetics were described by a two‐compartment model with four‐transit compartment absorption and linear elimination. The final model included a covariate effect of region on relative bioavailability, with patients in the East Asian region estimated to have a 52% higher bioavailability compared with Western patients. Population simulated exposure at 30 mg b.i.d. in patients in Asia was similar to that at 50 mg b.i.d. in Western patients [geometric mean (coefficient of variation) steady state area under the concentration‐time curve over the dosing interval (AUC(0–τ)): 21.4 μM.h (52.3%) and 24.1 μM.h (53.6%), respectively]. Exposure–AE relationships could be described for neutropenia, stomatitis and diarrhoea, supporting the lower dosage of alisertib in Asia for global clinical development.

Conclusions

Model‐based simulations support the achievement of similar alisertib exposures in patients in Asia who are administered a 40% lower dose compared with the Western population, thereby providing a quantitative clinical pharmacology bridging and regional dosing rationale for global drug development.
Elevated expression of ΔNp63 in advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Kumakura Yuji , Rokudai Susumu , Iijima Misaki , Altan Bolag , Yoshida Tomonori , Bao Halin , Yokobori Takehiko , Sakai Makoto , Sohda Makoto , Miyazaki Tatsuya , Nishiyama Masahiko , Kuwano Hiroyuki
Published: September 2017

This study aims to explore the expression level of ΔNp63 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). To investigate the association between ΔNp63 (p40) expression and ESCC biology, we compared the levels of ΔNp63 expression in normal and tumor tissues, with a specific focus on the diagnostic value of ΔNp63 in ESCC. We analyzed 160 consecutive patients with ESCC who underwent surgical resection without neoadjuvant chemotherapy at Gunma University Hospital (Maebashi, Japan) between September 2000 and January 2010. The clinicopathological characteristics and survival of patients were subclassified based on the expression of ΔNp63 as determined by immunohistochemistry, indicating that ΔNp63 was highly expressed in 75.6% (121/160) of ESCC patients. Clinicopathological analysis of ΔNp63 expression showed that ΔNp63‐positive tumors significantly correlated with two important clinical parameters: T factor (P = 0.0316) and venous invasion (P = 0.0195). The 5‐year overall survival rates of advanced ESCC patients with positive and negative expression of ΔNp63 were 35.6% and 71.7%, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed that the expression of ΔNp63 was identified as an independent prognostic factor (P = 0.0049) in advanced ESCC. In line with this, ΔNp63α‐transduced ESCC cell lines increased tumor growth in a soft agar colony formation assay. We report here for the first time that ΔNp63 expression increases the oncogenic potential of ESCC and is an independent marker for predicting poor outcome in advanced ESCC. Our findings suggest that ΔNp63 could serve as a new diagnostic marker for ESCC and might be a relevant therapeutic target for the treatment of patients with this disease.
Expression in Escherichia coli of fusion protein comprising α‐conotoxin TxIB and preservation of selectivity to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the purified product
Authors: Yu Jinpeng , Zhu Xiaopeng , Yang Yang , Luo Sulan , Zhangsun Dongting
Published: September 2017

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are ligand‐gated ion channels, which are widely distributed in the central and peripheral nervous system. The α6β2* nAChR is an important subtype, which is closely associated with nicotine addiction and movement disorders etc. α‐conotoxin TxIB with 16‐amino acid residues specifically targets α6β2* nAChR with no obvious effect on other nAChR subtypes. However, chemical synthesis of TxIB is expensive, and the quantity of native TxIB extracted from cone snail is limited. In the present study, we attempted to obtain TxIB using biological method based on the recombinant expression in Escherichia coli (E. coli). The synthetic gene encoding mature peptide of TxIB was inserted in pET‐31b(+) vector and transformed into E. coli strain BLR(DE3)pLysS for expression. The recombinant fusion protein KSI‐TxIB‐His6 (KSI, ketosteroid isomerase) was expressed successfully as inclusion body in E. coli, which was purified by Ni‐NTA affinity chromatography column and cleaved by cyanogen bromide (CNBr) to release recombinant α‐conotoxin TxIB (rTxIB). Then, rTxIB was purified by reverse‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography (RP‐HPLC) and was identified by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS). Pharmacological activity of rTxIB was assessed by electrophysiological approaches. The results indicated that it preserved about 50% of potency, but, was even more important, had the same selectivity as the natural conotoxin which may provide an alternative method for quantity production of small peptides with low cost on the premise of not changing their potency.