bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and internal validation of a side‐specific, multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging‐based nomogram for the prediction of extracapsular extension of prostate cancer
Authors: Martini Alberto , Gupta Akriti , Lewis Sara C. , Cumarasamy Shivaram , Haines Kenneth G. , Briganti Alberto , Montorsi Francesco , Tewari Ashutosh K.
Published: April 2018

Objectives

To develop a nomogram for predicting side‐specific extracapsular extension (ECE) for planning nerve‐sparing radical prostatectomy.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively analysed data from 561 patients who underwent robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy between February 2014 and October 2015. To develop a side‐specific predictive model, we considered the prostatic lobes separately. Four variables were included: prostate‐specific antigen; highest ipsilateral biopsy Gleason grade; highest ipsilateral percentage core involvement; and ECE on multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI). A multivariable logistic regression analysis was fitted to predict side‐specific ECE. A nomogram was built based on the coefficients of the logit function. Internal validation was performed using ‘leave‐one‐out’ cross‐validation. Calibration was graphically investigated. The decision curve analysis was used to evaluate the net clinical benefit.

Results

The study population consisted of 829 side‐specific cases, after excluding negative biopsy observations (n = 293). ECE was reported on mpMRI and final pathology in 115 (14%) and 142 (17.1%) cases, respectively. Among these, mpMRI was able to predict ECE correctly in 57 (40.1%) cases. All variables in the model except highest percentage core involvement were predictors of ECE (all P ≤ 0.006). All variables were considered for inclusion in the nomogram. After internal validation, the area under the curve was 82.11%. The model demonstrated excellent calibration and improved clinical risk prediction, especially when compared with relying on mpMRI prediction of ECE alone. When retrospectively applying the nomogram‐derived probability, using a 20% threshold for performing nerve‐sparing, nine out of 14 positive surgical margins (PSMs) at the site of ECE resulted above the threshold.

Conclusion

We developed an easy‐to‐use model for the prediction of side‐specific ECE, and hope it serves as a tool for planning nerve‐sparing radical prostatectomy and in the reduction of PSM in future series.
Complex multicellularity in fungi: evolutionary convergence, single origin, or both?
Authors: Nagy László G. , Kovács Gábor M. , Krizsán Krisztina
Published: April 2018

Complex multicellularity represents the most advanced level of biological organization and it has evolved only a few times: in metazoans, green plants, brown and red algae and fungi. Compared to other lineages, the evolution of multicellularity in fungi follows different principles; both simple and complex multicellularity evolved via unique mechanisms not found in other lineages. Herein we review ecological, palaeontological, developmental and genomic aspects of complex multicellularity in fungi and discuss general principles of the evolution of complex multicellularity in light of its fungal manifestations. Fungi represent the only lineage in which complex multicellularity shows signatures of convergent evolution: it appears 8–11 times in distinct fungal lineages, which show a patchy phylogenetic distribution yet share some of the genetic mechanisms underlying complex multicellular development. To explain the patchy distribution of complex multicellularity across the fungal phylogeny we identify four key observations: the large number of apparently independent complex multicellular clades; the lack of documented phenotypic homology between these clades; the conservation of gene circuits regulating the onset of complex multicellular development; and the existence of clades in which the evolution of complex multicellularity is coupled with limited gene family diversification. We discuss how these patterns and known genetic aspects of fungal development can be reconciled with the genetic theory of convergent evolution to explain the pervasive occurrence of complex multicellularity across the fungal tree of life.
Endoscopic near infrared photoimmunotherapy using a fiber optic diffuser for peritoneal dissemination of gastric cancer
Authors: Nagaya Tadanobu , Okuyama Shuhei , Ogata Fusa , Maruoka Yasuhiro , Choyke Peter L. , Kobayashi Hisataka
Published: April 2018

Near infrared photoimmunotherapy (NIR‐PIT) is a highly selective tumor treatment that employs an antibody‐photo‐absorber conjugate (APC) which is activated by near infrared light. Here, we describe the efficacy of endoscopic NIR‐PIT using the APC trastuzumab‐IR700DX (tra‐IR700) in the setting of human epidermal growth factor 2 positive (HER2 + ) gastric carcinoma with peritoneal disseminations. In this in vivo study, fluorescence endoscopy showed high tumor accumulation of tra‐IR700 within disseminated peritoneal implants. Mice with disseminated peritoneal gastric cancer were separated into 4 groups: (i) control (no treatment); (ii) tra‐IR700 i.v. only; (iii) NIR light only; and (iv) endoscopic NIR‐PIT. NIR light irradiation was carried out through a fiber optic diffuser under endoscopic guidance. In vivo bioluminescence images showed significantly greater therapeutic effect in the endoscopic NIR‐PIT group than that in the control groups (P < .01 vs other control groups). Histological analysis showed diffuse cancer cell death in NIR‐PIT‐treated tumors. In conclusion, NIR‐PIT with NIR light delivered via an endoscopic fiber optic diffuser is a promising method for the treatment of peritoneal dissemination of gastric cancer. Moreover, this technique could be readily used in other types of cancers with peritoneal dissemination provided that suitable antibodies could be found.
Development of machine learning models to predict inhibition of 3‐dehydroquinate dehydratase
Authors: de Ávila Maurício Boff , de Azevedo Walter Filgueira
Published: April 2018

In this study, we describe the development of new machine learning models to predict inhibition of the enzyme 3‐dehydroquinate dehydratase (DHQD). This enzyme is the third step of the shikimate pathway and is responsible for the synthesis of chorismate, which is a natural precursor of aromatic amino acids. The enzymes of shikimate pathway are absent in humans, which make them protein targets for the design of antimicrobial drugs. We focus our study on the crystallographic structures of DHQD in complex with competitive inhibitors, for which experimental inhibition constant data is available. Application of supervised machine learning techniques was able to elaborate a robust DHQD‐targeted model to predict binding affinity. Combination of high‐resolution crystallographic structures and binding information indicates that the prevalence of intermolecular electrostatic interactions between DHQD and competitive inhibitors is of pivotal importance for the binding affinity against this enzyme. The present findings can be used to speed up virtual screening studies focused on the DHQD structure.
Working while unwell: Workplace impairment in people with severe asthma
Authors: Hiles S. A. , Harvey E. S. , McDonald V. M. , Peters M. , Bardin P. , Reynolds P. N. , Upham J. W. , Baraket M. , Bhikoo Z. , Bowden J. , Brockway B. , Chung L. P. , Cochrane B. , Foxley G. , Garrett J. , Hew M. , Jayaram L. , Jenkins C. , Katelaris C. , Katsoulotos G. , Koh M. S. , Kritikos V. , Lambert M. , Langton D. , Lara Rivero A. , Marks G. B. , Middleton P. G. , Nanguzgambo A. , Radhakrishna N. , Reddel H. , Rimmer J. , Southcott A. M. , Sutherland M. , Thien F. , Wark P. A. B. , Yang I. A. , Yap E. , Gibson P. G.
Published: April 2018

Background

Severe asthma affects quality of life; however, its impact on workplace productivity is poorly understood.

Objective

To compare workplace productivity—absenteeism and presenteeism—and impairment in daily activities in severe and non‐severe asthma over time and identify characteristics associated with presenteeism in severe asthma.

Methods

The Severe Asthma Web‐based Database is an ongoing observational registry from Australia, New Zealand and Singapore. At April 2017, 434 patients with severe asthma and 102 with non‐severe asthma were enrolled (18‐88 years; 59% female). Participants provided comprehensive clinical and questionnaire data at baseline and were followed‐up every 6 months for 24 months. Absenteeism (percentage of time not at work), presenteeism (self‐reported impairment at work) and impairment in daily activities outside work due to health problems in the last week were calculated.

Results

At baseline, 61.4% of participants with severe asthma and 66.2% with non‐severe asthma under 65 years were employed. At younger ages (30‐50 years), fewer severe asthma participants were employed (69% vs 100%). Presenteeism and impairment in daily activity were more frequently reported in severe asthma and in participants with poorer asthma control, poorer lung function and more past‐year exacerbations (P < .01). Over time, deteriorating asthma control was associated with increasing presenteeism. Although absenteeism was not different between severe and non‐severe asthma, worse asthma control was associated with absenteeism (P < .001). In participants with severe asthma, presenteeism was reported more frequently in those with poorer asthma control, poorer asthma‐related quality of life and symptoms of depression or anxiety (P < .01).

Conclusion and clinical relevance

Severe asthma was associated with impairment at work and outside the workplace. Improving asthma control and mental health may be important targets for optimizing workplace productivity in severe asthma. Presenteeism and absenteeism may represent key metrics for assessing intervention efficacy in people with severe asthma of working age.
Age‐related scattered hypofluorescent spots on late‐phase indocyanine green angiography: the multimodal imaging and relevant factors
Authors: Chen Ling , Zhang Xiongze , Liu Bing , Mi Lan , Wen Feng
Published: April 2018

Importance

Fundus aging and its imaging features.

Background

To characterize the demographic and multimodal‐imaging features of age‐related scattered hypofluorescent spots on late‐phase indocyanine green angiography (ASHS‐LIA).

Design

A hospital‐based retrospective study.

Participants

Eight hundred and seventy‐five normal fundi fellow eyes from 875 patients underwent indocyanine green angiography (ICGA), fluorescence angiography (FA), autofluorescence (AF) and spectral‐domain optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Methods

Demographic information, medical records and multimodal imaging data were reviewed.

Main Outcome Measures

Diameter of ASHS‐LIA and its grade, subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT).

Results

ASHS‐LIA was identified in 233 patients (26.6%) aged 33 to 87 years (mean: 65.8 ± 8.4 years). Patients with ASHS‐LIA were significantly older and had a higher male proportion than those without ASHS‐LIA (both P < 0.001). The occurrence and grade of ASHS‐LIA increased with age (all P < 0.001). Age (OR = 1.093) and male gender (OR = 1.550) were the independent relevant factors of ASHS‐LIA (P < 0.001, and P = 0.002, respectively). The incidence of ASHS‐LIA in polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) patients (53.2%) was the highest (all P < 0.001). ASHS‐LIA mainly located in macular region (diameter: 100–500 μm), and could be confluent. No corresponding abnormalities were detected via multimodal imaging, including FA, AF and OCT. The mean SFCT had no significant difference between eyes with and without ASHS‐LIA (P = 0.221).

Conclusions and Relevance

ASHS‐LIA was observed on late‐phase ICGA, mainly located in macular region. No corresponding abnormalities were detected by other multimodal imaging, including FA, AF and OCT. The occurrence and grade of ASHS‐LIA increased with age. Moreover, ASHS‐LIA might be not correlated with SFCT, but correlated with PCV.
Effectiveness of lockouts in reducing alcohol‐related harm: Systematic review
Authors: Nepal Smriti , Kypri Kypros , Pursey Kirrilly , Attia John , Chikritzhs Tanya , Miller Peter
Published: April 2018

Issues

Australian jurisdictions have introduced lockouts to prevent alcohol‐related violence. Lockouts prohibit patrons from entering licensed premises after a designated time while allowing sale and consumption of alcohol to continue. Their purposes include managing the movement of intoxicated patrons, and preventing violence and disorder by dispersing times that patrons leave premises. We sought to evaluate the effectiveness of lockouts in preventing alcohol‐related harm.

Approach

We systematically searched electronic databases and reference lists and asked authors to identify relevant studies published to 1 June 2017. We deemed studies eligible if they evaluated lockouts, and if outcome measures included: assault, emergency department attendances, alcohol‐related disorders or drink‐driving offences. Two reviewers independently extracted data.

Key Findings

After screening 244 records, we identified five studies from electronic databases, two from reference lists search and one from a Google search (N = 8). Two studies showed a decline in assaults; a third study showed reductions occurred only inside licensed premises; two studies showed an increase in assaults; and three studies showed no association. The studies had significant design and other limitations.

Implications

Lockouts have been implemented across Australian jurisdictions as a strategy to prevent alcohol‐related harm, despite limited evidence. In this systematic review, we synthesised findings from studies that evaluated lockouts as stand‐alone interventions, to help clarify debate on their utility as a harm prevention strategy.

Conclusion

There is not good evidence that lockouts prevent alcohol‐related harm, in contrast to what is known about stopping the sale of alcohol earlier, for which there is evidence of effectiveness.
Prepyloric submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection for a case of inflammatory mass (with video)
Authors: Chai Ningli , Zhang Wengang , Linghu En‐Qiang
Published: April 2018

Watch a video of this article
EUS‐guided hepaticogastrostomy
Authors: Itonaga Masahiro , Hatamaru Keiichi , Kitano Masayuki
Published: April 2018

Watch a video of this article
Internet gaming disorder: more questions on a new diagnosis
Authors: Mueller Kai
Published: April 2018

This commentary is on the invited review by Paulus et al. on pages 645–659 of this issue.
A rare case of Ewing's sarcoma/primitive neuroectodermal tumor metastasizing to left atrium through left inferior pulmonary vein
Authors: Kulkarni Suraj K. , Moorthy Nagaraj , Somanna Shankar , Cholenahally Nanjappa Manjunath
Published: April 2018

Cardiac metastasis of Ewing's sarcoma is exceedingly rare. A 40‐year‐old male was admitted with complaints of nonproductive cough, exertional dyspnea, and fatigue since 4 months with a history of abdominal wall swelling which was excised and proven to be Ewing's sarcoma/primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET). A transthoracic echocardiography demonstrated inhomogeneous mass located posterior to the left ventricle and a solitary mass protruding into the left atrium through the left inferior pulmonary vein. Due to accompanying pulmonary metastasis and possible poor outcome of the surgery, surgical resection was not considered.
Effectiveness of an audio‐visual aid on the knowledge of school teachers regarding the emergency management of dental injuries
Authors: Niviethitha Sabarinathan , Bhawarlal Chanram , Ramkumar Hemalatha , Dhakshanamoorthy Senthil , Shanmugam Hariharan
Published: April 2018

Background/Aim

Traumatic dental injuries (TDI) occur frequently in the school environment. Many studies have shown that teachers' knowledge on the emergency management of TDI is inadequate. The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge level among schoolteachers in Chennai, India, regarding TDI using a questionnaire and to evaluate the effectiveness of a newly developed audio‐visual aid (AV) as an educational tool by reapplying the questionnaire.

Methods

The questionnaire was distributed to 345 teachers in 15 randomly selected schools. A pro forma document along with the questionnaire surveyed the teachers' demographic details and their knowledge regarding the emergency management of TDI. Then, a video containing evidence‐based information about the emergency management of TDI in accordance with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) guidelines was played for the participants. The questionnaire was readministered to test the teachers' knowledge after they viewed the video.

Results

In total, 301 teachers responded to the questionnaire. Wilcoxon's signed‐rank test/chi‐square test showed that, after the teachers viewed the video, their knowledge had significantly improved relative to the handling of TDI (P < .0001). Their attitude towards the AV aid was positive, and all participants (100%) found the AV helpful. Almost 99.7% of the participants reported increased confidence in handling dental injuries.

Conclusion

There is a substantial lack of basic knowledge regarding the emergency TDI management among schoolteachers. The proposed AV aid is an effective tool for providing management strategies.
Influence of estrogen deficiency on guided bone augmentation: investigation of rat calvarial model and osteoblast‐like MC3T3‐E1 cells
Authors: Kubota Tatsuya , Hasuike Akira , Tsukune Naoya , Ozawa Yasumasa , Yamamoto Takanobu , Min Seiko , Naito Masako , Sato Shuichi
Published: April 2018

The effect of estrogen deficiency in bone augmentation, and the mechanisms by which estrogen deficiency impedes osteoblast differentiation and collagen matrix production, were examined. Twenty female Jcl:Wistar rats were divided into two groups: ovariectomized rats; and control rats. Guided bone augmentation was performed by positioning plastic caps in the calvarium of all animals at 8 wk after ovariectomy or sham surgery. Micro‐computed tomography and histological sections were used to determine the amount of bone augmentation within the plastic caps. At 8 wk, there was statistically significantly less newly formed bone volume in ovariectomized rats. Immunohistological staining revealed the rare alignment of runt‐related transcription factor 2‐positive osteoblast‐like cells and collagen I‐positive bundle fibers in ovariectomized rats. In cell culture experiments, pre‐osteoblast‐like cells, MC3T3‐E1, were treated with the estrogen receptor antagonist, fulvestrant. In treated cells, alkaline phosphatase activity remained high, whereas Alizarin Red staining was completely inhibited. Extracellular staining intensity of collagen I was decreased after fulvestrant treatment. Consistent with these observations, gene‐expression analysis confirmed that fulvestrant treatment led to weaker expression of mRNA for osteogenic transcription factors and bone matrix protein‐related genes. The results demonstrate that estrogen deficiency suppresses osteoblast differentiation and collagen matrix production in bone augmentation.
Stable coexistence of genetically divergent Atlantic cod ecotypes at multiple spatial scales
Authors: Knutsen Halvor , Jorde Per Erik , Hutchings Jeffrey A. , Hemmer‐Hansen Jakob , Grønkjær Peter , Jørgensen Kris‐Emil Mose , André Carl , Sodeland Marte , Albretsen Jon , Olsen Esben M.
Published: April 2018

Coexistence in the same habitat of closely related yet genetically different populations is a phenomenon that challenges our understanding of local population structure and adaptation. Identifying the underlying mechanisms for such coexistence can yield new insight into adaptive evolution, diversification and the potential for organisms to adapt and persist in response to a changing environment. Recent studies have documented cryptic, sympatric populations of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) in coastal areas. We analysed genetic origin of 6,483 individual cod sampled annually over 14 years from 125 locations along the Norwegian Skagerrak coast and document stable coexistence of two genetically divergent Atlantic cod ecotypes throughout the study area and study period. A “fjord” ecotype dominated in numbers deep inside fjords while a “North Sea” ecotype was the only type found in offshore North Sea. Both ecotypes coexisted in similar proportions throughout coastal habitats at all spatial scales. The size‐at‐age of the North Sea ecotype on average exceeded that of the fjord ecotype by 20% in length and 80% in weight across all habitats. Different growth and size among individuals of the two types might be one of several ecologically significant variables that allow for stable coexistence of closely related populations within the same habitat. Management plans, biodiversity initiatives and other mitigation strategies that do not account for the mixture of species ecotypes are unlikely to meet objectives related to the sustainability of fish and fisheries.
Potential of carnosine, a histamine precursor in rat model of bilateral common carotid artery occlusion‐induced vascular dementia
Authors: Tiwari Nidhi , Bhatia Pankaj , Kumar Amit , Jaggi Amteshwar S. , Singh Nirmal
Published: April 2018

The present study investigates the potential of Carnosine, a histamine precursor in rat model of bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAo)‐induced vascular dementia (VaD). Wistar rats were subjected to BCCAo procedure under anaesthesia to induce VaD. The rats were subjected to Morris water maze (MWM) test (6th day onwards post‐surgery). MWM test was employed to assess learning and memory of the animals whereby escape latency time, time spent in target quadrant and Path length (distance travelled) taken as important parameters. Serum nitrite level; Brain thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels; Brain acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity; brain Myeloperoxidase activity (MPO) and neutrophil count were estimated as per standard procedures. BCCAo in rats produced a significant vascular endothelial dysfunction, as reflected by decrease in serum nitrite levels. Further, these animals showed poor performance on MWM, depicting impairment of learning and memory. There was a significant rise in brain oxidative stress level as indicated by increase in TBARS and decrease in GSH levels. An increase in brain AChE activity was also observed. Moreover, these rats also exhibited an increase in MPO activity and neutrophil infiltration in brain (as marker of inflammation). Treatment of Carnosine (200 and 400 mg/kg, i.p.)/Donepezil (0.3 mg/kg, i.p.) ameliorated BCCAo‐induced memory deficits; endothelial dysfunction; biochemical and histopathological changes. It is concluded that Carnosine has shown efficacy in rat model of BCCAo‐induced VaD and can be considered as an important therapeutic agent for the treatment of VaD.
Interleukin‐33 overexpression reflects less aggressive tumour features in large‐duct type cholangiocarcinomas
Authors: Sawada Ryuichiro , Ku Yuna , Akita Masayuki , Otani Kyoko , Fujikura Kohei , Itoh Tomoo , Ajiki Tetsuo , Fukumoto Takumi , Kakeji Yoshihiro , Zen Yoh
Published: April 2018

Aims

The aim of the present study was to elucidate the clinicopathological significance of interleukin (IL)‐6 and IL‐33 expression in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinomas (iCCAs) and perihilar cholangiocarcinomas (pCCAs).

Methods and results

IL‐6 and IL‐33 mRNA expression levels were examined in iCCAs (n = 55) and pCCAs (n = 32) by the use of quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and a highly sensitive in‐situ hybridisation protocol (RNAscope), and expression levels were correlated with clinicopathological features. According to a recently proposed classification scheme, iCCAs were separated into small‐duct (n = 33) and large‐duct (n = 22) types. IL‐6 and IL‐33 expression levels were higher in large‐duct iCCAs and pCCAs than in small‐duct iCCAs, and there was a positive correlation between the expression levels of these cytokines. Double in‐situ hybridisation/immunostaining showed that IL‐6 mRNA was expressed in actin‐positive (myo)fibroblasts, whereas IL‐33 mRNA was mainly produced by CD31‐positive endothelial cells. With the average expression level as a cut‐off point, cases were classified as IL‐6high and IL‐6low or IL‐33high and IL‐33low. In the combined cohort of large‐duct iCCAs and pCCAs, IL‐6high and IL‐6low cholangiocarcinomas shared many features, whereas IL‐33high cases had less aggressive characteristics than IL‐33low cases, as shown by lower tumour marker concentrations, smaller tumour sizes, less common vascular invasion, lower pT stages, and higher lymphocyte/monocyte ratios in blood. KRAS mutations were slightly less common in IL‐33high cases than in IL‐33low cases (9% versus 29%; P = 0.061). The strong expression of IL‐33 in tissue appeared to be an independent favourable prognostic factor.

Conclusions

IL‐33high cholangiocarcinomas may represent a unique, less aggressive carcinogenetic process of the large bile ducts.
Consumer motivation for the decision to boycott: The social dilemma
Authors: Shin Seongyeon , Yoon Sung‐Wook
Published: April 2018

This study suggests a rational framework to explain consumers’ decision to boycott. We proposed an instrumental boycott framework based on rational response to the offending behaviour of a target company. The hypotheses embedded within the research model are empirically evaluated. The data were collected by questionnaire survey, and structural equation modelling was utilized for data analysis. The results show that social factors (message credibility, expected overall participation and perceived boycott effectiveness) generate motivations for consumers’ boycott decisions. In addition, it is identified that these factors increase consumers’ perceived likelihood of boycott success. Further, it is also found that consumers' perceived likelihood of boycott success positively affect their boycott decision via the possibility of changing a target company's offending behavior and unwillingness to purchase the target company's products. The results of this study explain consumers’ instrumental boycott decision‐making process in terms of social dilemma. Further, this study provides practical contributions for understanding consumers’ rational boycott behaviour. Specific implications for marketing managers and boycott organizations are outlined in the general discussion. Suggestions for future research are also presented in the conclusion.
Demarcation of the core and periphery dichotomy: evidence from Turkey's shipyards for a paradoxical precarity model
Authors: Cam Surhan , Palaz Serap
Published: April 2018

Combining ethnographic inquiries with questionnaires, this article rectifies the dearth of systematic research on core employees in Turkey's shipyards. In doing so, it revises conventional associations of precarity with the peripheral jobs both exclusively and predominantly. In particular, we point to the rise of a peculiar model, ‘paradoxical precarity’, as the core jobs have become more identifiable with precarity than the rest. Paradoxical precarity has four distinguishable contours: (i) The masses of core employees lost their jobs to precarious workers. (ii) Even so, a substantial proportion of employees remain at the core. (iii) This, however, came at a cost: they became more dissatisfied than others with remuneration, job security, employee involvement and job intensity whilst frustrated with unions and (iv) paradoxical precarity has faced political and economic challenges but it is reproduced by a managerial short‐termism under competitive pressures to save on high skills thanks to an ever‐increasing number of graduates.
Recovery of pulmonary functions, exercise capacity, and quality of life after pulmonary rehabilitation in survivors of ARDS due to severe influenza A (H1N1) pneumonitis
Authors: Hsieh Meng‐Jer , Lee Wei‐Chun , Cho Hsiu‐Ying , Wu Meng‐Fang , Hu Han‐Chung , Kao Kuo‐Chin , Chen Ning‐Hung , Tsai Ying‐Huang , Huang Chung‐Chi
Published: April 2018

Background

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to severe influenza A H1N1 pneumonitis would result in impaired pulmonary functions and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) after hospital discharge.

Objectives

The recovery of pulmonary functions, exercise capacity, and HRQoL in the survivors of ARDS due to 2009 pandemic influenza A H1N1 pneumonitis (H1N1‐ARDS) was evaluated in a tertiary teaching hospital in northern Taiwan between May 2010 and June 2011.

Patients and Methods

Data of spirometry, total lung capacity (TLC), diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide (DLCO), and 6‐minute walk distance (6MWD) in the patients survived from H1N1‐ARDS were collected 1, 3, and 6 months post‐hospital discharge. HRQoL was evaluated with St. George respiratory questionnaire (SGRQ).

Results

Nine survivors of H1N1‐ARDS in the study period were included. All these patients received 2 months’ pulmonary rehabilitation program. Pulmonary functions and exercise capacity included TLC, forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), DLCO, and 6MWD improved from 1 to 3 months post‐hospital discharge. Only TLC had further significant improvement from 3 to 6 months. HRQoL represented as the total score of SGRQ had no significant improvement in the first 3 months but improved significantly from 3 to 6 months post‐discharge.

Conclusion

The impaired pulmonary functions and exercise capacity in the survivors of H1N1‐ARDS improved soon at 3 months after hospital discharge. Their quality of life had keeping improved at 6 months even though there was no further improvement of their pulmonary functions and exercise capacity.
Circulating miRNAs in acute new‐onset atrial fibrillation and their target mRNA network
Authors: da Silva Ananília Medeiros Gomes , de Araújo Jéssica Nayara Góes , de Oliveira Katiene Macêdo , Novaes Ana Eloísa Melo , Lopes Mariana Borges , de Sousa Júlio César Vieira , Filho Antônio Amorim de Araújo , Luchessi André Ducati , de Rezende Adriana Augusto , Hirata Mário Hiroyuki , Silbiger Vivian Nogueira
Published: April 2018

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF), acting on development and progression. Our pilot study investigated the expression of six miRNAs and their miRNA–mRNA interactions in patients with acute new‐onset AF, well‐controlled AF, and normal sinus rhythm (controls).

Methods and results

Plasma of acute new‐onset AF patients (n = 5) was collected in the emergency room when patients presented with irregular and fast‐atrial fibrillation rhythm. Samples from well‐controlled AF (n = 16) and control (n =  15) patients were collected during medical appointments following an ECG. Expression of miR‐21, miR‐133a, miR‐133b, miR‐150, miR‐328, and miR‐499 was analyzed by real‐time PCR. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis and the TargetScan database identified the top 30 mRNA targets of these miRNA, seeking the miRNA–mRNA interactions in cardiovascular process. Increased expression of miR‐133b (1.4‐fold), miR‐328 (2.0‐fold), and miR‐499 (2.3‐fold) was observed in patients with acute new‐onset AF, compared with well‐controlled AF and control patients. Decreased expression of miR‐21 was seen in patients with well‐controlled AF compared to those with acute new‐onset AF and controls (0.6‐fold). The miRNA‐mRNA interaction demonstrated thatSMAD7andFASLGgenes were the targets of miR‐21, miR‐133b, and miR‐499 and were directly related to AF, being involved in apoptosis and fibrosis.

Conclusion

The miRNAs had different expression profiles dependent on the AF condition, with higher expression in the acute new‐onset AF than well‐controlled AF. Clinically, this may contribute to an effective assessment for patients, leading to early detection of AF and monitoring to reduce the risk of other serious cardiovascular events.
Commentary: Advancing an implementation science agenda on mental health and psychosocial responses in war‐affected settings: comment on trials of a psychosocial intervention for youth affected by the Syrian crisis ‐ by Panter‐Brick et al. (2018)
Authors: Betancourt Theresa S. , Fazel Mina
Published: April 2018

Syria's civil conflict has created the largest humanitarian disaster of our time, causing massive population displacement, tremendous exposure to trauma, and loss. Advancing the mental health and psychosocial responses of war‐affected populations both during acute humanitarian emergencies and in post‐conflict transition is imperative in forging a constructive implementation agenda. This study makes an important contribution in building evidence toward effective interventions to advance the mental health and well‐being of those affected by the Syrian crisis. Using an innovative approach, this work demonstrates that a thoughtful, ethical, and scientifically valid trial can be carried out in the midst of mass displacement. Further research is urgently needed on the effectiveness of interventions for vulnerable populations, with a growing need to embed studies of evidence‐based mental health interventions within humanitarian responses.
Differential effects of offspring and maternal inbreeding on egg laying and offspring performance in the burying beetleNicrophorus vespilloides
Authors: Ford Lucy E. , Henderson Kirsten J. , Smiseth Per T.
Published: April 2018

We investigate the effect of offspring and maternal inbreeding on maternal and offspring traits associated with early offspring fitness in the burying beetleNicrophorus vespilloides. We conducted two experiments. In the first experiment, we manipulated maternal inbreeding only (keeping offspring outbred) by generating mothers that were outbred, moderately inbred or highly inbred. Meanwhile, in the second experiment, we manipulated offspring inbreeding only (keeping females outbred) by generating offspring that were outbred, moderately inbred or highly inbred. In both experiments, we monitored subsequent effects on breeding success (number of larvae), maternal traits (clutch size, delay until laying, laying skew, laying spread and egg size) and offspring traits (hatching success, larval survival, duration of larval development and average larval mass). Maternal inbreeding reduced breeding success, and this effect was mediated through lower hatching success and greater larval mortality. Furthermore, inbred mothers produced clutches where egg laying was less skewed towards the early part of laying than outbred females. This reduction in the skew in egg laying is beneficial for larval survival, suggesting that inbred females adjusted their laying patterns facultatively, thereby partially compensating for the detrimental effects of maternal inbreeding on offspring. Finally, we found evidence of a nonlinear effect of offspring inbreeding coefficient on number of larvae dispersing. Offspring inbreeding affected larval survival and larval development time but also unexpectedly affected maternal traits (clutch size and delay until laying), suggesting that females adjust clutch size and the delay until laying in response to being related to their mate.
At‐vessel mortality of skates (Rajidae) taken in coastal fisheries and evidence of longer‐term survival
Authors: Ellis J. R. , Burt G. J. , Grilli G. , McCully Phillips S. R. , Catchpole T. L. , Maxwell D. L.
Published: April 2018

Data on the vigour and at‐vessel mortality (AVM) of 6798 skates (comprisingRaja clavatan = 6295;R. brachyuran = 208;R. undulatan = 185,R. montaguin = 98 andR. microocellatan = 12) captured by commercial fishing vessels in the inshore waters of the southern North Sea and English Channel were recorded. AVM in longline fisheries averaged 0·44% across five vessels (0–1·47%), although skates were usually unhooked manually and did not usually pass through a bait‐stripper. AVM in otter trawls averaged 0·76% (0–2·35%), from four vessels fishing with tow durations of <1·5 h (southern North Sea) or 1–4 h (English Channel). No AVM was noted for skates taken as a by‐catch in drift trammel nets (soak times <4 h). Anchored tangle nets resulted in an overall AVM of 2·0–2·7%, but increased from 1·47% (13–28 h soak time) to 6·16% (42–53 h soak time). There were significant differences in the vigour of skates between gears, withR. clavatacaught by longline and tangle nets in better condition than those captured by otter trawl or drift trammel net. Similarly,R. undulatacaught by tangle net were in better condition than those caught by otter trawl. The vigour ofR. undulatawas also found to be higher than other skate species for both trawl and tangle net. In total, 5283 skates were tagged with Petersen discs and released, with recapture rates for the various combinations of vessel and gear ranging up to 24·8% forR. clavata. Whilst confirming a degree of post‐release survival, quantitative estimates of post‐release mortality for skates remain unknown.
Co‐occurrence of aflatoxins and ochratoxin A in nuts, dry fruits, and nuty products
Authors: Iqbal Shahzad Zafar , Mehmood Zehid , Asi Muhammad Rafique , Shahid Misbah , Sehar Mubasharah , Malik Noeen
Published: April 2018

A total of 320 samples of edible nuts (poppy seed, peanut, pistachio, cashew, almonds) and dry fruits (plum, raisins, figs, dates, apricot, watermelon seed, melon seeds, pomegranate seeds) collected from major cities of Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, were analyzed for the presence of aflatoxins (AFs) and ochratoxin A (OTA). Sample extracts were purified using immunoaffinity columns and analyzed by reversed phase HPLC with fluorescence detection. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and total AFs (AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, AFG2) were found in 128 (40%) samples, and total AFs exceeded levels of 4 µg/kg and 10 µg/kg in 34 and 25% of samples. The highest mean levels of total AFs (7.30 ± 1.80 µg/kg) were found in peanuts without shell, the lowest mean levels (2.90 ± 1.50 µg/kg) were found in watermelon seeds with shell samples. OTA was found in 18 (5%) samples, the highest levels (5.60 ± 1.34 µg/kg) were found in raisins (maximum 18.5 µg/kg). Only four samples of edible nuts and dry fruits were contaminated with OTA at levels above the recommended limit of 10 µg/kg. The results have revealed the co‐occurrence of OTA and total AFs in 25% total samples of dry fruits and nuts with a mean level of OTA 3.58 ± 1.30 µg/kg and total AFs mean level of 4.13 ± 0.48 µg/kg, respectively. The high frequency especially of AFs in dry fruits and edible nuts is regarded as a health issue for consumers.

Practical applications

The manuscript has provided the current status on the levels of AFs and OTA in dry fruits and nuts in Pakistan. The results of current finding revealed that the levels of AFs and OTA in those samples which have stored in shells are significantly less as compared to those samples of nuts and dry fruits which have been stored without shells. Therefore, to use good storage practices, farmers, venders, and traders can eliminate or minimize the levels of these toxins in their products. Furthermore, the study will provide the awareness and levels of AFs and OTA in nuts and dry fruits and help to implement strict regulations for these toxins by law enforcement agencies.
Retrospective Evaluation of a Restrictive Transfusion Strategy in Older Adults with Hip Fracture
Authors: Zerah Lorene , Dourthe Lucile , Cohen‐Bittan Judith , Verny Marc , Raux Mathieu , Mézière Anthony , Khiami Frédéric , Tourette Cendrine , Neri Christian , Le Manach Yannick , Riou Bruno , Vallet Hélène , Boddaert Jacques
Published: April 2018

Objectives

To compare the association between a restrictive transfusion strategy and cardiovascular complications during hospitalization for hip fracture with the association between a liberal transfusion strategy and cardiovascular complications, accounting for all transfusions from the emergency department to postacute rehabilitation settings.

Design

Retrospective study.

Setting

Perioperative geriatric care unit.

Participants

All individuals aged 70 and older admitted to the emergency department for hip fracture and hospitalized in our perioperative geriatric care unit (N=667; n=193 in the liberal transfusion group, n=474 in the restrictive transfusion group) from July 2009 to April 2016.

Intervention

A restrictive transfusion strategy (hemoglobin level threshold ≥8 g/dL or symptoms) used from January 2012 to April 2016 was compared with the liberal transfusion strategy (hemoglobin level threshold ≥10 g/dL) used from July 2009 to December 2011.

Measurements

Primary endpoint was in‐hospital acute cardiovascular complications (heart failure, myocardial infarction, atrial fibrillation or stroke).

Results

The change to a restrictive transfusion strategy was associated with fewer acute cardiovascular complications (odds ratio=0.45, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.31–0.67, p<.001), without any noticeable difference in in‐hospital or 6‐month mortality. The change also led to a reduction in packed red blood cell units used per participant (median 1, interquartile range (IQR) 0–2 in restrictive vs median 2, IQR 0–3 in liberal transfusion strategy, P<.001). In rehabilitation settings, the frequency of transfusion was greater with the restrictive transfusion strategy than the liberal transfusion strategy (18% vs 9%, P<.001).

Conclusion

A restrictive transfusion strategy in older adults with hip fracture was found to be safe and was associated with fewer cardiovascular complications but more transfusions in rehabilitation settings. Prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Is a Decline in Will to Live a Consequence or Predictor of Depression in Late Life?
Authors: Carmel Sara , Tovel Hava , Raveis Victoria H. , O'Rourke Norm
Published: April 2018

OBJECTIVES

To assess the causal directions of interaction between depression and decline in will to live (WTL) over 2 years in community‐dwelling older adults.

DESIGN

Community‐based longitudinal study.

SETTING

Three large cities in Israel.

PARTICIPANTS

Individuals aged 75 and older (N=870).

MEASUREMENTS

We tested a cross‐lagged structural equation model in which WTL and depressive symptoms (DS) were tested as latent variables at each of three annual points of measurement.

RESULTS

Of the health and sociodemographic covariates examined, only self‐rated health predicted WTL and DS, and age predicted WTL. WTL predicted DS at each point of measurement. In addition to these cross‐sectional effects, WTL also predicted DS 12 months later at the second and third year. In other words, the direction of prediction was exclusively from WTL to DS, concomitantly and over time.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that WTL predicts DS rather than vice versa, suggesting that decline in WTL contributes and leads to depression at present and in future. Health strategies designed to promote WTL in older adults may help forestall depression. Moreover, psychotherapeutic interventions targeting WTL might be effective in the treatment of depression.
Classify epithelium‐stroma in histopathological images based on deep transferable network
Authors: YU X. , ZHENG H. , LIU C. , HUANG Y. , DING X.
Published: April 2018

Recently, the deep learning methods have received more attention in histopathological image analysis. However, the traditional deep learning methods assume that training data and test data have the same distributions, which causes certain limitations in real‐world histopathological applications. However, it is costly to recollect a large amount of labeled histology data to train a new neural network for each specified image acquisition procedure even for similar tasks. In this paper, an unsupervised domain adaptation is introduced into a typical deep convolutional neural network (CNN) model to mitigate the repeating of the labels. The unsupervised domain adaptation is implemented by adding two regularisation terms, namely the feature‐based adaptation and entropy minimisation, to the object function of a widely used CNN model called the AlexNet. Three independent public epithelium‐stroma datasets were used to verify the proposed method. The experimental results have demonstrated that in the epithelium‐stroma classification, the proposed method can achieve better performance than the commonly used deep learning methods and some existing deep domain adaptation methods. Therefore, the proposed method can be considered as a better option for the real‐world applications of histopathological image analysis because there is no requirement for recollection of large‐scale labeled data for every specified domain.
Massively parallel approximate Bayesian computation for estimating nanoparticle diffusion coefficients, sizes and concentrations using confocal laser scanning microscopy
Authors: RÖDING M. , BILLETER M.
Published: April 2018

We implement a massively parallel population Monte Carlo approximate Bayesian computation (PMC‐ABC) method for estimating diffusion coefficients, sizes and concentrations of diffusing nanoparticles in liquid suspension using confocal laser scanning microscopy and particle tracking. The method is based on the joint probability distribution of diffusion coefficients and the time spent by a particle inside a detection region where particles are tracked. We present freely available central processing unit (CPU) and graphics processing unit (GPU) versions of the analysis software, and we apply the method to characterize mono‐ and bidisperse samples of fluorescent polystyrene beads.
Sulfatide isoform pattern in cerebrospinal fluid discriminates progressive MS from relapsing‐remitting MS
Authors: Novakova Lenka , Singh Avadhesh Kumar , Axelsson Markus , Ståhlman Marcus , Adiels Martin , Malmeström Clas , Zetterberg Henrik , Borén Jan , Lycke Jan , Cardell Susanna L. , Blomqvist Maria
Published: April 2018

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS). Several biomarkers including proteins and lipids have been reported in MS cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), reflecting different aspects of the pathophysiology particularly of relapsing‐remitting MS (RRMS). Sulfatide, abundant in the myelin sheath and a proposed target for autoimmune attack in MS, has been reported altered in MS CSF. Here, we investigated the potential of CSF sulfatide and its isoforms as biomarkers in MS. A highly sensitive and quantitative mass spectrometry method was employed to determine levels of sulfatide isoforms in CSF from RRMS and progressive MS (PMS) patients, and healthy donors (HD). We demonstrate that levels of total CSF sulfatide and C24:1, C26:1, and C26:1‐OH isoforms were significantly increased in PMS compared with RRMS patients and HD, while C23:0‐OH was significantly decreased in CSF from PMS patients compared to the other two groups. Multivariate discriminant analysis showed that CSF sulfatide isoform pattern in PMS patients was distinct and non‐overlapping with that of RRMS patients and HD. Sulfatide levels did not correlate with tested biomarkers or clinical parameters. The results suggest that CSF sulfatide isoform levels may be used to discriminate the phenotype of MS and might play a role in the progression of the disease.

image