bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fetal rotation during vacuum extractions for prolonged labor: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Kahrs Birgitte H. , Usman Sana , Ghi Tullio , Youssef Aly , Torkildsen Erik A. , Lindtjørn Elsa , Østborg Tilde B. , Benediktsdottir Sigurlaug , Brooks Lis , Harmsen Lotte , Salvesen Kjell Å. , Lees Cristoph C. , Eggebø Torbjørn M.
Published: May 2018

Introduction

The aim of the study was to investigate fetal head rotation during vacuum extraction.

Material and methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study from November 2013 to July 2016 in seven European hospitals. Fetal head position was determined with transabdominal or transperineal ultrasound and categorized as occiput anterior (OA), occiput transverse (OT) or occiput posterior (OP) position. Main outcome was the proportion of fetuses rotating during vacuum extraction. Secondary outcomes were conversion of delivery method, duration of vacuum extraction, umbilical artery pH <7.10 and agreement between clinical and ultrasound assessments.

Results

The study population comprised 165 women. During vacuum extraction 117/119 (98%) remained in OA and two fetuses rotated to OP position. Rotation from OT to OA position occurred in 14/19 (74%) and to OP position in 5/19 (26%). Rotation from OP to OA position occurred in 15/25 (60%), and 10/25 (40%) fetuses remained in OP position. Delivery information was missing in two cases. The conversion rate from vacuum extraction to cesarean section or forceps was 10% in the OA group vs. 23% in the non‐OA group; p < 0.05. The estimated duration of vacuum extraction was significantly shorter in OA fetuses, 7 min vs. 10 min (log rank test p < 0.01). There was no significant difference in umbilical artery pH < 7.10 between OA and non‐OA position. Cohens Kappa of agreement between clinical and ultrasound assessments was 0.42 (95% CI 0.26–0.57).

Conclusion

Most fetuses in OP or OT positions rotated to OA position during vacuum extraction, but the proportion of failed vacuum extractions remained high.
Oxycodone pharmacokinetics and fetal exposure after intravenous or epidural administration to the ewe
Authors: Kinnunen Mari , Kokki Hannu , Hautajärvi Heidi , Huhta Heikki , Ranta Veli‐Pekka , Räsänen Juha , Voipio Hanna‐Marja , Kokki Merja
Published: May 2018

Introduction

There are limited data on oxycodone pharmacokinetics during pregnancy and on fetal exposure after maternal administration. The present study describes the pharmacokinetics of intravenous (i.v.) oxycodone in pregnant sheep and fetal exposure after intravenous and epidural administration.

Material and methods

Ten pregnant sheep received 0.1 mg·kg−1 oxycodone intravenously, and blood samples were collected up to 24 hours. Seven days later, the ewes were randomized to receive 0.5 mg·kg−1 oxycodone intravenously (n = 5) or epidurally (n = 5) as a single bolus, before laparotomy for placement of catheters into the fetal superior vena cava and carotid artery. Paired maternal and fetal blood samples were taken when the fetal arterial catheter was in place and at the end of surgery. Maternal blood samples were taken up to 24 hours.

Results

After 0.1 mg·kg−1 oxycodone intravenously, the median clearance was 5.2 L·h−1·kg−1 (range 4.6‐6.2), but the volume of distribution varied between 1.5 and 4.7 L·kg−1. The area under the curve was 17 h·ng·mL−1 (range 14‐19) and the plasma concentration at 2 minutes 60 ng·mL−1 (range 50‐74). Following administration of 0.5 mg·kg−1 intravenously or epidurally, oxycodone concentrations were similar in the maternal and the fetal plasma. Accumulation of oxymorphone in the fetus occurred; fetal‐to‐maternal ratios were 1.3‐3.5 (median 2.1) in the i.v.‐group and 0.9‐3.0 (1.3) in the Epidural‐group.

Conclusions

We determined the pharmacokinetics of oxycodone in pregnant sheep. We showed accumulation of oxymorphone, which an active metabolite of oxycodone, in the fetus. Further studies in human pregnancies are required to evaluate the safety of oxycodone.
Maternal plasma leptin levels in relation to the duration of the active phase of labor
Authors: Carlhäll Sara , Källén Karin , Thorsell Annika , Blomberg Marie
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Obese women have increased leptin levels and longer duration of labor compared with normal‐weight women. Leptin has an inhibitory effect on myometrial contractility in vitro. Our purpose was to examine whether maternal leptin levels in active labor were associated with the duration of the active phase of labor.

Material and methods

This prospective cohort study included 914 women. Maternal blood samples were collected in active labor. The plasma‐leptin concentration was obtained using a direct sandwich‐based ELISA. Bivariate and multiple linear regression analyses were used to study the association between leptin levels and the duration of labor.

Results

A 1 ng/mL increase in maternal plasma leptin was associated with a 0.015 hour increase in duration of labor (P < .007). This association was not statistically significant in the adjusted analyses nor when analyzing nulliparous and multiparous women separately. In women with spontaneous labor (n = 766) leptin levels were not associated with an increase in duration of labor in the adjusted analyses.

Conclusions

There was no significant association between leptin levels and duration of the active phase of labor. Leptin in vivo might display a similar dose‐response effect on myometrial contractility as demonstrated in in vitro studies. Future studies need to explore the association between leptin levels and time in labor in obese women with high leptin levels to evaluate a possible dose‐response effect.
Effect of highly concentrated hyaluronic acid/chondroitin sulphate instillation on ureteric stent‐induced discomfort after ureteroscopic lithotripsy: a multicentre randomised controlled pilot study
Authors: Jo Jung Ki , Kim Jae Heon , Kim Kyu Shik , Chung Jae Hoon , Kim Yong Tae , Choi Hong Yong , Song Eun‐Seop , Lee Bora , Lee Seung Wook
Published: May 2018

Objective

To investigate the effectiveness and safety of instilling highly concentrated hyaluronic acid (HA)/chondroitin sulphate (CS) on ureteric stent‐related pain, urinary symptoms, and quality of life (QoL) of patients who underwent ureteroscopic lithotripsy for ureteric stones followed by ureteric stent placement.

Patients and Methods

Eligible patients were randomly allocated to receive intravesical instillation with HA/CS or normal saline just after ureteric stent placement. Just before stent removal on postoperative day 7, the patients completed the Ureteric Stent Symptom Questionnaire (USSQ), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) QoL question, and a pain visual analogue scale (VAS).

Results

In total, 92 patients (46 each in the treatment and control arms) completed the study. The groups did not differ in terms of age or stent indwelling time. Compared with the control group, the treatment group had significantly lower USSQ urinary symptom domain scores (24.6 vs 32.5; P < 0.001), better IPSS QoL scores (3.5 vs 4.4, P = 0.018), and lower VAS pain scores (2.0 vs 3.2; P < 0.001). They also had lower total body pain subscores (16.7 vs 22.0; P = 0.01) and lower additional pain subscores due to urinary tract infections (2.1 vs. 3.2; P = 0.01) in the USSQ.

Conclusions

Highly concentrated HA/CS effectively improved urinary symptoms and pain, and reduced the need for additional medication or procedures after ureteric stent placement.
Computer‐aided diagnosis of prostate cancer on magnetic resonance imaging using a convolutional neural network algorithm
Authors: Ishioka Junichiro , Matsuoka Yoh , Uehara Sho , Yasuda Yosuke , Kijima Toshiki , Yoshida Soichiro , Yokoyama Minato , Saito Kazutaka , Kihara Kazunori , Numao Noboru , Kimura Tomo , Kudo Kosei , Kumazawa Itsuo , Fujii Yasuhisa
Published: May 2018

Objective

To develop a computer‐aided diagnosis (CAD) algorithm with a deep learning architecture for detecting prostate cancer on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to promote global standardisation and diminish variation in the interpretation of prostate MRI.

Patients and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed data from 335 patients with a prostate‐specific antigen level of <20 ng/mL who underwent MRI and extended systematic prostate biopsy with or without MRI‐targeted biopsy. The data were divided into a training data set (n = 301), which was used to develop the CAD algorithm, and two evaluation data sets (n = 34). A deep convolutional neural network (CNN) was trained using MR images labelled as ‘cancer’ or ‘no cancer’ confirmed by the above‐mentioned biopsy. Using the CAD algorithm that showed the best diagnostic accuracy with the two evaluation data sets, the data set not used for evaluation was analysed, and receiver operating curve analysis was performed.

Results

Graphics processing unit computing required 5.5 h to learn to analyse 2 million images. The time required for the CAD algorithm to evaluate a new image was 30 ms/image. The two algorithms showed area under the curve values of 0.645 and 0.636, respectively, in the validation data sets. The number of patients mistakenly diagnosed as having cancer was 16/17 patients and seven of 17 patients in the two validation data sets, respectively. Zero and two oversights were found in the two validation data sets, respectively.

Conclusion

We developed a CAD system using a CNN algorithm for the fully automated detection of prostate cancer using MRI, which has the potential to provide reproducible interpretation and a greater level of standardisation and consistency.
Novel nomograms for castration‐resistant prostate cancer and survival outcome in patients with de novo bone metastatic prostate cancer
Authors: Zhao Jinge , Sun Guangxi , Liao Banghua , Zhang Xingming , Armstrong Cameron M. , Yin Xiaoxue , Liu Jiandong , Chen Junru , Yang Yaojing , Zhao Peng , Tang Qidun , Wang Zhenghao , Chen Zhibin , Li Xiong , Wei Qiang , Li Xiang , Chen Ni , Gao Allen C. , Shen Pengfei , Zeng Hao
Published: May 2018

Objectives

To develop nomograms predicting the incidence of castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) and overall survival (OS) for de novo metastatic prostate cancer (PCa).

Patients and Methods

Data from 449 patients with de novo metastatic PCa were retrospectively analysed. Patients were randomly divided into a training (n = 314, 70%) and a validation cohort (n = 135, 30%). Predictive factors were selected using a Cox proportional hazards model and were further used for building predictive models. The outcomes were incidence of CRPC and OS.

Results

Predictive factors included: Gleason score (GS), intraductal carcinoma of the prostate (IDC‐P), Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group status, and alkaline phosphatase, haemoglobin and prostate‐specific antigen levels. IDC‐P and GS were the strongest prognosticators for both the incidence of CRPC and OS. Nomograms for predicting CRPC and OS had an internal validated concordance index of 0.762 and 0.723, respectively. Based on the β coefficients of the final model, risk classification systems were constructed. For those with favourable, intermediate and poor prognosis, the median time to CRPC was 62.6, 28.0 and 13.0 months (P < 0.001), respectively; and the median OS was not reached, 55.0 and 33.0 months, respectively (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

We developed two novel nomograms to predict the incidence of CRPC and OS for patients with de novo metastatic PCa. These tools may assist in physician decision‐making and the designing of clinical trials.
Clomiphene citrate and human chorionic gonadotropin are both effective in restoring testosterone in hypogonadism: a short‐course randomized study
Authors: Habous Mohamad , Giona Simone , Tealab Alaa , Aziz Mohammed , Williamson Ben , Nassar Mohammed , Abdelrahman Zeyad , Remeah Abdallah , Abdelkader Mohamed , Binsaleh Saleh , Muir Gordon
Published: May 2018

Objectives

To compare serum testosterone response and symptom improvement in men with hypogonadism in response to treatment with clomiphene citrate (CC), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), or a combination of both therapies.

Patients and Methods

A total of 282 men with hypogonadism, wishing to preserve their fertility, were randomized to one of three treatment arms: CC 50 mg (n = 95); 5000 IU hCG injections twice weekly (n = 94); or a combination of both therapies (CC + hCG; n = 94). All participants had complete medical history and had undergone thorough physical examination, including body mass index (BMI) assessment. Laboratory tests included serum total testosterone and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) measurements. Quantitative Androgen Deficiency in the Aging Male (qADAM) questionnaire scores were also recorded. Morning samples of total serum testosterone levels were assessed at three time points: baseline, 1 and 3 months.

Results

Testosterone levels increased at 1 and 3 months in all three groups. The mean baseline testosterone level was 2.31 ± 0.66 nmol/L, BMI was 30.8 ± 6.2 kg/m2, and qADAM score was 20.5 ± 3.8. Testosterone levels increased in all groups at all time points, with a final mean value of 5.17 ± 1.77 nmol/L (223% increase) with no statistically significant difference among the groups. qADAM scores had increased in all groups at 1 month (CC group: 6.36; hCG group: 5.08; CC + hCG group: 7.26) and at 3 months (CC group: 12.73; hCG group: 11.82; CC + hCG group: 15.13) with a significant difference in intergroup analysis for the CC + hCG group compared with the other two groups (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

All three treatments were equally effective in restoring testosterone levels. Single‐agent CC is simple, cheap and may be used as treatment for hypogonadism when maintenance of fertility is desired. This approach seems to be as effective as either hCG alone or a combination of hCG and CC.
Norcantharidin enhances antitumor immunity of GM‐CSF prostate cancer cells vaccine by inducing apoptosis of regulatory T cells
Authors: Mo Lijun , Zhang Xinji , Shi Xiaojun , Wei Lili , Zheng Dianpeng , Li Hongwei , Gao Jimin , Li Jinlong , Hu Zhiming
Published: May 2018

Norcantharidin (NCTD) is a promising antitumor drug with low toxicity. It was reported to be able to regulate immunity, but the mechanism is not yet clear. Here we explored whether NCTD could enhance the antitumor immunity induced by prostate cancer cell vaccine. The results of the in vitro study showed that NCTD induced apoptosis and inhibited proliferation of regulatory T cells (Tregs). Mechanistic research showed that NCTD inhibited Akt activation and activated FOXO1 transcription, resulting in a pro‐apoptotic effect. The results of the in vivo study showed that more tumor‐infiltrating Tregs existed within peripheral blood and tumor tissue after treatment with the vaccine. Adding NCTD to vaccine treatment could decrease the number of tumor‐infiltrating Tregs and increase the number of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Combination therapy with NCTD and vaccine was more effective in inhibiting tumor growth than the vaccine alone. In general, this is the first report that NCTD could induce apoptosis of Tregs and enhance the vaccine‐induced immunity.
Combination of IFITM1 knockdown and radiotherapy inhibits the growth of oral cancer
Authors: Yang Jie , Li Lei , Xi Yan , Sun Ruimei , Wang Hu , Ren Yanxin , Zhao Liufang , Wang Xiaoli , Li Xiaojiang
Published: May 2018

This research aimed to analyze the effect of IFITM1 on the radioresistance of oral neoplasm. Using a multi‐group heat map from GSE9716 analysis of the GEO database, IFITM1 was determined to be a relevant radioresistance gene. The TCGA database was analyzed before the expression of IFITM1 was analyzed. IFITM1 expression was quantified by quantitative RT‐PCR and immunohistochemistry in 19 paired oral neoplasm cases. The effects of time and dose of radiation on IFITM1 expression level in CAL27 and TSCC1 cell lines were tested by quantitative RT‐PCR. Oral neoplasm cells were transfected with siRNA after radiotherapy to disturb IFITM1 expression. After this, the survival rates, cell apoptosis, caspase‐3 viability, expression and γ‐H2AX were detected using colony formation, flow cytometry, western blot and immunofluorescence, respectively. Western blot was used for STAT1/2/3/p21‐related protein and phosphorylation changes. Finally, an in vivo nude mice tumor model was established to verify the effect of IFITM1 on oral neoplasm cells radioresistance. Through microarray analysis, the head and neck neoplasm radioresistance‐related gene IFITM1 was found to be overexpressed. IFITM1 overexpression was verified not only using the TCGA database but also in 19 paired cases of oral neoplasm tissues and cells. With increases of dose and time of radiation, the expression of IFITM1 was increased in CAL27 and TSCC1 cell lines. Furthermore, si‐IFITM1 may restrain cell proliferation, DNA damage and cell apoptosis in oral neoplasm cell lines. Finally, pSTAT1/2/p21 was found to be upregulated while pSTAT3/p‐p21 was downregulated due to IFITM1 inhibition after radiotherapy. The evidence suggested that IFITM1 in combination with radiotherapy can inhibit oral neoplasm cells.
NR4A2 haploinsufficiency is associated with intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Lévy J. , Grotto S. , Mignot C. , Maruani A. , Delahaye‐Duriez A. , Benzacken B. , Keren B. , Haye D. , Xavier J. , Heulin M. , Charles E. , Verloes A. , Dupont C. , Pipiras E. , Tabet A.‐C.
Published: May 2018

NR4A2, a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily, is involved in modulation of target gene transcription, regulating several developmental processes such as regulation of cellular homeostasis, neuronal development, inflammation and carcinogenesis. 2q24.1 deletions are extremely rare, and only 1 patient with a de novo deletion encompassing only NR4A2 gene was reported so far. We report 3 additional patients with a de novo deletion encompassing NR4A2: 2 patients have deletions encompassing only NR4A2 gene and 1 patient has a deletion including NR4A2 and the first exon of GPD2. Our patients presented a neurodevelopmental disorder including language impairment, developmental delay, intellectual disability and/or autism spectrum disorder. We suggest that NR4A2 haploinsufficiency is implicated in neurodevelopmental disorder with high penetrance.
Evaluation of dental implant stability in bone phantoms: Comparison between a quantitative ultrasound technique and resonance frequency analysis
Authors: Vayron Romain , Nguyen Vu‐Hieu , Lecuelle Benoît , Haiat Guillaume
Published: May 2018

Background

Resonance frequency analyses and quantitative ultrasound methods have been suggested to assess dental implant primary stability.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to compare the results obtained using these two techniques applied to the same dental implants inserted in various bone phantoms.

Materials and Methods

Different values of trabecular bone density and cortical thickness were considered to assess the effect of bone quality on the respective indicators (UI and ISQ). The effect of the implant insertion depth and of the final drill diameter was also investigated.

Results

ISQ values increase and UI values decrease as a function of trabecular density, cortical thickness and the screwing of the implant. When the implant diameter varies, the UI values are significantly different for all final drill diameters (except for two), while the ISQ values are similar for all final drill diameters lower than 3.2 mm and higher than 3.3 mm. The error on the estimation of parameters with the QUS device is between 4 and 8 times lower compared to that made with the RFA technique.

Conclusions

The results show that ultrasound technique provides a better estimation of different parameters related to the implant stability compared to the RFA technique.
Cholinesterase targeting by polyphenols: A therapeutic approach for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Jabir Nasimudeen R. , Khan Fayaz Rahman , Tabrez Shams
Published: May 2018

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive irreversible neurodegenerative disorder characterized by excessive deposition of β‐amyloid (Aβ) oligomers, and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), comprising of hyperphosphorylated tau proteins. The cholinergic system has been suggested as the earliest and most affected molecular mechanism that describes AD pathophysiology. Moreover, cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs) are the potential class of drugs that can amplify cholinergic activity to improve cognition and global performance and reduce psychiatric and behavioral disturbances. Approximately, 60%‐80% of all cases of dementia in the world are patients with AD. In view of the continuous rise of this disease especially in the aged population, there is a dire need to come up with a novel compound and/or mixture that could work against this devastating disease. In this regard, the best is to rely on natural compounds rather than synthetic ones, because natural compounds are easily available, cost‐effective, and comparatively less toxic. To serve this purpose, lately, scientific community has started exploring the possibility of using different polyphenols either solitary or in combination that can serve as therapeutics against AD. In the current article, we have summarized the role of various polyphenols, namely quercetin, resveratrol, curcumin, gallocatechins, cinnamic acid, caffeine, and caffeic acid as an inhibitor of cholinesterase for the treatment of AD. We have also tried to uncover the mechanistic insight on the action of these polyphenols against AD pathogenicity.
The role of climate, water and biotic interactions in shaping biodiversity patterns in arid environments across spatial scales
Authors: Razgour Orly , Persey Mike , Shamir Uzi , Korine Carmi
Published: May 2018

Aim

Desert ecosystems, with their harsh environmental conditions, hold the key to understanding the responses of biodiversity to climate change. As desert community structure is influenced by processes acting at different spatial scales, studies combining multiple scales are essential for understanding the conservation requirements of desert biota. We investigated the role of environmental variables and biotic interactions in shaping broad and fine‐scale patterns of diversity and distribution of bats in arid environments to understand how the expansion of nondesert species can affect the long‐term conservation of desert biodiversity.

Location

Levant, Eastern Mediterranean.

Methods

We combine species distribution modelling and niche overlap statistics with a statistical model selection approach to integrate interspecific interactions into broadscale distribution models and fine‐scale analysis of ecological requirements. We focus on competition between desert bats and mesic species that recently expanded their distribution into arid environment following anthropogenic land‐use changes.

Results

We show that both climate and water availability limit bat distributions and diversity across spatial scales. The broadscale distribution of bats was determined by proximity to water and high temperatures, although the latter did not affect the distribution of mesic species. At the fine‐scale, high levels of bat activity and diversity were associated with increased water availability and warmer periods. Desert species were strongly associated with warmer and drier desert types. Range and niche overlap were high among potential competitors, but coexistence was facilitated through fine‐scale spatial partitioning of water resources.

Main conclusions

Adaptations to drier and warmer conditions allow desert‐obligate species to prevail in more arid environments. However, this competitive advantage may disappear as anthropogenic activities encroach further into desert habitats. We conclude that reduced water availability in arid environments under future climate change projections pose a major threat to desert wildlife because it can affect survival and reproductive success and may increase competition over remaining water resources.
Effect of short‐term treatment with sitagliptin or glibenclamide on daily glucose fluctuation in drug‐naïve Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Suzuki Ryo , Eiki Jun‐ichi , Moritoyo Takashi , Furihata Kenichi , Wakana Akira , Ohta Yukari , Tokita Shigeru , Kadowaki Takashi
Published: May 2018

Aims

To compare the effect of a dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor (DPP4‐i) and a sulfonylurea (SU) on daily glucose fluctuation in drug‐naïve Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Materials and methods

A total of 53 drug‐naïve Japanese patients with T2DM (HbA1c, 7.0%‐9.0%; fasting plasma glucose, 6.1 mmol/L or higher) were randomly assigned to either sitagliptin 50 mg qd or glibenclamide 2.5 mg per day (given in divided doses) in a 1:1 ratio. A continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) device was used to obtain 24‐hour glucose profiles for each patient at baseline and at Week 2. The primary study endpoint was change from baseline in mean amplitude of glucose excursion (MAGE) during a 24‐hour period. A key secondary endpoint was change from baseline in the standard deviation (SD) of 24‐hour glucose levels.

Results

After 2 weeks of treatment, a numerically greater reduction in MAGE from baseline was observed in the sitagliptin group compared with the glibenclamide group, but the between‐treatment difference was not statistically significant (LS mean difference [95% CI]: –0.48 mmol/L [−1.31, 0.34]; P = .245). However, a significantly greater reduction in the change from baseline in SD was observed in the sitagliptin group compared with the glibenclamide group (LS mean difference [95% CI]: –0.33 mmol/L [−0.62, −0.03]; P = .029).

Conclusions

This study suggests that the DPP4 inhibitor sitagliptin has a greater ability to reduce daily glucose fluctuation than the SU glibenclamide in drug‐naïve Japanese patients with T2DM. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02318693
Cytokine production by human neutrophils: Revisiting the “dark side of the moon”
Authors: Tamassia Nicola , Bianchetto‐Aguilera Francisco , Arruda‐Silva Fabio , Gardiman Elisa , Gasperini Sara , Calzetti Federica , Cassatella Marco A.
Published: May 2018

Polymorphonuclear neutrophils are the most numerous leucocytes present in human blood, and function as crucial players in innate immune responses. Neutrophils are indispensable for the defence towards microbes, as they effectively counter them by releasing toxic enzymes, by synthetizing reactive oxygen species and by producing inflammatory mediators. Interestingly, recent findings have highlighted an important role of neutrophils also as promoters of the resolution of inflammation process, indicating that their biological functions go well beyond simple pathogen killing. Consistently, data from the last decades have highlighted that neutrophils may even contribute to the development of adaptive immunity by performing previously unanticipated functions, including the capacity to extend their survival, directly interact with other leucocytes or cell types, and produce and release a variety of cytokines. In this article, we will summarize the main features of, as well as emphasize some important concepts on, the production of cytokines by human neutrophils.
The origins of northern European Autographa gamma individuals evaluated using hydrogen stable isotopes
Authors: Torniainen Jyrki , Mikonranta Lauri
Published: May 2018

1. Many insect species are migratory. As the spring progresses, adults gradually depart from their over‐wintering habitats and arrive in northern zones where they reproduce during the summer. Understanding this transgenerational and highly adaptive migratory behaviour is crucial when interpreting life cycle dynamics of many insect pests.

2. Origins of migratory silver Y moths, Autographa gamma (Linnaeus, 1758), captured from Finland, were studied with stable hydrogen analysis of their wings (δ2Hw).

3. The difference between spring and autumn generation δ2Hw values indicate different geographical natal origins. The probability surface map shows that the spring generation probably emerged in central Europe (Benelux countries, Germany and parts of France).

4. A negative correlation between the δ2Hw values and the migrants' capture year suggests that a warming climate may have driven the transgenerational migratory stages northwards during the last century.
Frontal cortical thickness correlates positively with impulsivity in early psychosis male patients
Authors: Baumann Philipp S. , Klauser Paul , Griffa Alessandra , Golay Philippe , Palix Julie , Alameda Luis , Moulin Valérie , Hagmann Patric , Do Kim Q. , Conus Philippe
Published: May 2018

Aim

Impulsive behaviours, which are frequent in young people suffering from psychosis have been linked to risky and violent behaviours and participate to the burden of psychotic illness. Given that morphological brain correlates of impulsivity in schizophrenia have been poorly investigated especially in young adults, the aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between impulsivity and cortical thickness in early psychosis (EP) patients.

Method

A total of 17 male subjects in the early phase of psychosis were recruited. Impulsivity was assessed with the Lecrubier Impulsivity Rating Scale. Mean cortical thickness was extracted from magnetic resonance imaging brain scans, using surface‐based methods.

Results

Mean cortical thickness in the frontal lobe correlated positively with mean impulsivity in EP male patients.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that psychotic subjects exhibiting higher impulsivity have larger frontal cortical thickness, which may pave the way towards the identification of patients with a higher risk to display impulsive behaviours.
Nicotine‐mediated neuroprotection of rat spinal networks against excitotoxicity
Authors: Kaur Jaspreet , Rauti Rossana , Nistri Andrea
Published: May 2018

Activation of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) by nicotine is reported to protect brain neurons from glutamate excitotoxicity. We inquired whether a similar phenomenon can occur in the rat isolated spinal cord (or spinal slice culture) challenged by a transient (1 hr) application of kainate (a powerful glutamate receptor agonist) to induce excitotoxicity mimicking spinal injury in vitro. We recorded spinal reflexes and fictive locomotion generated by the locomotor central pattern generator before and 24 hr after applying kainate. We also monitored network activity with Ca2+imaging and counted neurons and glia with immunohistochemical methods. In control conditions, nicotine (1 μM; 4 hr) depressed reflexes and fictive locomotion with slow recovery and no apparent neurotoxicity at 24 hr although synchronous Ca2+transients appeared in slice cultures. Kainate nearly halved neuron numbers (while sparing glia), decreased reflexes and Ca2+transients, and suppressed fictive locomotion. When nicotine was applied (4 hr) after washout of kainate, fictive locomotor cycles appeared 24 hr later though with low periodicity, and significant protection of neurons, including motoneurons, was observed. Nicotine applied together with kainate and maintained for further 4 hr yielded better neuroprotection, improved fictive locomotion expression and reversed the depression of Ca2+transients. nAChR antagonists did not intensify kainate neurotoxicity and inhibited the neuroprotective effects of nicotine. These data suggest that nicotine was efficacious to limit histological and functional excitotoxic damage probably because it activated and then desensitized nAChRs on excitatory and inhibitory network neurons to prevent triggering intracellular cell death pathways.
Effect of pre‐corrosion on damage evolution and crack propagation in aluminum alloy 7050‐T7651
Authors: Song H. , Bai Z. , Zhang H. , Niu Y. , Leen S.B.
Published: May 2018

This paper investigates the effects of pre‐corrosion on the tensile behavior of aluminum alloy 7050‐T7651. A combined experimental approach involving digital image correlation, scanning electron microscopy, and tensile testing is presented for quantitative and qualitative analysis. A tensile damage model is presented for plasticity‐induced, post‐corrosion mechanical damage for interpretation and identification of damage and cracking thresholds. Although multiple corrosion‐induced cracks evolve simultaneously in diffuse regions, propagation and coalescence of the main cracks, originating from key damage regions, dominate the failure process. A combined corrosion and mechanical damage model was used to successfully predict the effects of pre‐corrosion on the tensile stress‐strain response.
Ratcheting effect of reinforced graphite sheet with stainless steel insert (RGSWSSI) under cyclic compression at elevated temperature
Authors: Zheng X.T. , Dai W.C. , Chen H.F. , Shen J.
Published: May 2018

Ratcheting and creep of reinforced graphite sheet with stainless steel insert (RGSWSSI) are tested under cyclic stress‐controlled compression by a self‐designed clamp from 500°C to 600°C. The effects of insert type, temperature, stress amplitude, stress rate, creep, and loading sequence are considered. Results present that ratcheting deformations for RGSWSSI with 316‐L stainless steel tanged and bonded insert approach to each other and show little rate dependence, while they slightly increase with the increment of stress amplitude and temperature. Moreover, obvious ratcheting effect takes place under cyclic pulsating loads with the peak stress of 32 MPa at 500°C or higher. The accumulated deformations of RGSWSSI under small stress amplitude only increase during about the first 25 cycles and then always turn to shakedown. It can also be estimated by the corresponding static creep strain in practical engineering with good accuracy at high temperature. This work provides important data and understanding of RGSWSSI under harsh fluctuating loads.
Regime shift in the littoral ecosystem of volcanic Lake Atitlán in Central America: combined role of stochastic event and invasive plant species
Authors: Rejmánková Eliška , Sullivan Benjamin W. , Ortiz Aldana José R. , Snyder Jenise M. , Castle Stephanie T. , Reyes Morales Fátima
Published: May 2018

Different functional groups of macrophytes vary in their impact on aquatic ecosystem structure and processes. The introduction of new species with different growth form, combined with a stochastic event, may have serious and irreversible consequences on lake functioning.

Our goals were to document and explain physical, chemical, metabolic and biotic changes in the littoral zones of a volcanic lake before and following two coinciding events: invasion by a submersed macrophyte, Hydrilla verticillata (Hydrocharitaceae), followed by a rapid increase in the lake water level (>2.5 m). We recorded plant biomass, plant tissue C:N:P stoichiometry, macroinvertebrates, water characteristics data along transects through littoral zones, and measured gas emission in controlled mesocosms and in the lake.

The native emergent species, Schoenoplectus californicus (Cyperaceae), was generally not able to survive such a rapid water level increase, and Hydrilla spread and formed dense mats further preventing Schoenoplectus regeneration. The impact of another introduced species, the free‐floating Eichhornia crassipes (Pontederiaceae), was more localised, despite its much longer presence at the lake.

Although the three species had comparable standing biomass, the two invader species had lower C:N:P ratios than Schoenoplectus, resulting in faster decomposition rates and indicating potential shifts in nutrient cycling within the ecosystem. The oxygen profile of the water column was altered by the non‐native species in a significantly different manner: in Eichhornia, the saturation concentrations dropped down to 30%–50% of dissolved oxygen, while oxygen supersaturation was recorded in Hydrilla.

Both Schoenoplectus and Eichhornia patches exhibited comparable carbon dioxide (CO2) fluxes, sequestering 230 and 300 mg CO2 m−2 hr−1, respectively, during the day and emitting 250 and 200 mg CO2 m−2 hr−1, respectively, during the night. Contrary to these two species, Hydrilla patches sequestered CO2 during the day (34 mg CO2 m−2 hr−1) and night (44 mg CO2 m−2 hr−1).

The invasive species maintained a richer community of macroinvertebrates compared to several native species (excluding Schoenoplectus), both in taxa diversity and in numbers of individuals.

When the results are considered in the regional context, an increase in nutrient supply could lead to the dominance of free‐floating plants. We discussed management options more broadly considering the negative impacts of introduced species balanced against their beneficial effects, in the context of environmental changes.
Environmental change and predator diversity drive alpha and beta diversity in freshwater macro and microorganisms
Authors: Antiqueira Pablo Augusto P. , Petchey Owen L. , dos Santos Viviane Piccin , de Oliveira Valéria Maia , Romero Gustavo Quevedo
Published: May 2018

Global biodiversity is eroding due to anthropogenic causes, such as climate change, habitat loss, and trophic simplification of biological communities. Most studies address only isolated causes within a single group of organisms; however, biological groups of different trophic levels may respond in particular ways to different environmental impacts. Our study used natural microcosms to investigate the predicted individual and interactive effects of warming, changes in top predator diversity, and habitat size on the alpha and beta diversity of macrofauna, microfauna, and bacteria. Alpha diversity (i.e., richness within each bromeliad) generally explained a larger proportion of the gamma diversity (partitioned in alpha and beta diversity). Overall, dissimilarity between communities occurred due to species turnover and not species loss (nestedness). Nevertheless, the three biological groups responded differently to each environmental stressor. Microfauna were the most sensitive group, with alpha and beta diversity being affected by environmental changes (warming and habitat size) and trophic structure (diversity of top predators). Macrofauna alpha and beta diversity was sensitive to changes in predator diversity and habitat size, but not warming. In contrast, the bacterial community was not influenced by the treatments. The community of each biological group was not mutually concordant with the environmental and trophic changes. Our results demonstrate that distinct anthropogenic impacts differentially affect the components of macro and microorganism diversity through direct and indirect effects (i.e., bottom‐up and top‐down effects). Therefore, a multitrophic and multispecies approach is necessary to assess the effects of different anthropogenic impacts on biodiversity.
Impairment in toileting behavior after a stroke
Authors: Kawanabe Eri , Suzuki Makoto , Tanaka Satoshi , Sasaki Shotaro , Hamaguchi Toyohiro
Published: May 2018

Aim

Dependence for toileting is the most problematic aspect for patients after a stroke. However, the relative difficulty of each component of toileting and the predictors for independent performance of these activities are unknown. We investigated these issues in stroke patients using Boltzmann sigmoid and generalized linear modeling.

Methods

We carried out a cross‐sectional correlation study, including 107 adult inpatients, hospitalized for a stroke. We assessed the activity components of toileting, as well as evaluated physical impairment using the Fugl‐Meyer Assessment, impairments in balance using the Berg Balance Scale, cognitive impairments using the Mini‐Mental State Examination and the presence or absence of unilateral spatial neglect or aphasia.

Results

Boltzmann sigmoid modeling showed that the total scores required to obtain a response at 50% of the maximal value for the required components of toileting ranged between 2.691 and 34.962 points, for the components of “wearing pants” and “cutting the toilet paper,” respectively. A generalized linear model showed that the Berg Balance Scale score was a significant predictor for independent performance on most component activities of toileting.

Conclusions

The component of toileting that was easiest to carry out was cutting the toilet paper, and the most difficult was wearing pants. Balance impairment was an independent predictor of independent toileting after stroke. This detailed toileting assessment enabled us to document the most difficult components of toileting, and to assess the motor and process skills required for independent toileting. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 1166–1172.
Importance of frailty evaluation in the prediction of the prognosis of patients with chronic subdural hematoma
Authors: Shimizu Kiyoharu , Sadatomo Takashi , Hara Takeshi , Onishi Shumpei , Yuki Kiyoshi , Kurisu Kaoru
Published: May 2018

Aim

The present study aimed to clarify the relationship between frailty and prognosis of patients with chronic subdural hematoma.

Methods

This retrospective study involved 211 patients aged ≥65 years with chronic subdural hematoma, who underwent surgery at Higashihiroshima Medical Center, Hiroshima, Japan, between July 2011 and May 2017. The study outcome was the patient's modified Rankin Scale score at 3 months after surgery. A logistic regression analysis was carried out to analyze factors that influenced the outcome.

Results

Chronic subdural hematoma patients with frailty had a poorer prognosis than those without (median modified Rankin Scale: 4 and 2, P < 0.001; proportions of patients discharged to home: 35% and 91%, P < 0.001, respectively). After adjusting for patients’ background, the patients’ modified Rankin Scale scores at 3 months after surgery were found to be associated with age, controlling nutritional status score and recurrence, but not with frailty. However, receiver operating characteristic curves of the model with the Clinical Frailty Scale were more accurately correlated with prognosis than those of the model without this scale (area under the curve 0.98, 95% confidence interval 0.96–0.99; and 0.87, 95% confidence interval 0.82–0.91, respectively.)

Conclusions

Chronic subdural hematoma patients with frailty had poorer prognosis than those without. The evaluation of the presence of frailty on admission can be an important factor in the prediction of the prognosis of chronic subdural hematoma patients. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 1173–1176.
Risk factors for nursing‐ and healthcare‐associated urinary tract infection
Authors: Sugishita Keiji , Saito Toshiaki , Iwamoto Takashi
Published: May 2018

Aim

In concordance with population aging, the number of patients living in long‐term care facilities or who require nursing care has been increasing in Japan. However, little is known about the characteristics of urinary tract infection in these patients. The present study aimed to clarify the background or risk factors for multidrug‐resistant urinary tract infection in this patient population.

Methods

A retrospective study was carried out of patients aged ≥65 years who presented to Kesennuma City Municipal Motoyoshi Hospital from April 2014 to July 2017 with suspected urinary tract infection and a positive urine culture.

Results

Among a total of 76 patients, 20 (26%) had multidrug‐resistant bacteriuria. The prevalence of multidrug‐resistant bacteriuria was 40% among the long‐term care facility residents, 34% among the patients who were certified as requiring care under the long‐term care system in Japan and 47% among those with antibiotic prescription within 90 days. By multivariate analysis, long‐term care facility residency was an independent risk factor for multidrug‐resistant bacteriuria (odds ratio 4.1, 95% confidence interval 1.2–14.3).

Conclusions

Long‐term care facility residency was found to be a significant predictor of multidrug‐resistant bacteriuria. Nursing‐ and healthcare‐associated urinary tract infection, which has different characteristics from those of community‐ or hospital‐acquired infections, should be considered when deciding treatment in this population. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 1183–1188.
Implementing community participation via interdisciplinary teams in primary care: An Irish case study in practice
Authors: Tierney Edel , McEvoy Rachel , Hannigan Ailish , MacFarlane Anne E.
Published: May 2018

Background

Community participation in primary care is enshrined in international and Irish health policy. However, there is a lack of evidence about how stakeholders work collectively to implement community participation within interdisciplinary teams; community perspectives are rarely captured, and a theoretical underpinning for implementation of community participation in primary care is absent.

Objective

To conduct a theoretically informed, multiperspectival empirical analysis of the implementation of community participation via primary care teams (PCTs) in Ireland.

Methods/Design/Participants

Participatory learning and action (PLA) focus groups and interviews were held with 39 participants across four case study sites within a nationally funded programme designed to enable disadvantaged communities to participate in primary care. Normalization process theory (NPT) informed data generation and analysis of how diverse stakeholder groups worked together to implement community participation via PCTs.

Results

The various stakeholders had a shared understanding of the value of community participation on PCTs. Motivations to get involved in this work varied, but were strong overall. Challenges to enacting community participation on PCTs included problems with the functioning of PCTs and a lack of clarity and confidence in the role of community representatives at PCT meetings. Informal appraisals were positive, but formal appraisal was limited.

Discussion and Conclusion

The implementation and sustainability of community participation on PCTs in Ireland will be limited unless (i) the functioning of PCTs is strong, (ii) there is increased confidence and clarity on community representatives’ roles among all health‐care professionals, and (iii) more sophisticated methods for formal appraisal are used.
DNA content analysis of colorectal serrated lesions detects an aneuploid subset of inflammatory bowel disease‐associated serrated epithelial change and traditional serrated adenomas
Authors: Choi Won‐Tak , Wen Kwun Wah , Rabinovitch Peter S , Huang Danning , Mattis Aras N , Gill Ryan M
Published: May 2018

Aims

Serrated lesions (SLs), including sessile serrated adenoma (SSA) and traditional serrated adenoma (TSA), are important premalignant lesions for colorectal cancer (CRC). Although a small subset of SLs are known to harbour TP53 mutations and Wnt/β‐catenin pathway activation, suggesting that they may develop dysplasia or CRC via a ‘chromosomal instability (CIN)‐like’ pathway, it is unclear if aneuploidy (characteristic of conventional adenoma) ever develops in SLs and is associated with development of dysplasia or CRC, in this context.

Methods and results

DNA flow cytometry was performed on 31 inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)‐associated SLs without dysplasia [including 10 non‐targeted ‘serrated epithelial change’ (SEC), 14 SSAs and seven hyperplastic polyps (HPs)] as well as 48 dysplastic SSAs and TSAs. One (10%) of 10 SEC cases demonstrated aneuploidy and subsequently developed high‐grade dysplasia (HGD) within 4 months, whereas the remaining SEC cases showed normal DNA content without evidence of dysplasia or CRC on follow‐up. One (3.3%) of 30 TSAs without HGD and two (66.7%) of three TSAs with HGD also showed aneuploidy, but no patient developed CRC. By contrast, all SSAs (with or without dysplasia) and HPs showed normal DNA content, but four SSA cases still developed dysplasia or CRC on follow‐up.

Conclusions

Unlike SSAs and HPs, a small subset of SEC and TSA cases demonstrated aneuploidy, suggesting that they can develop neoplasia via the CIN pathway. DNA content analysis of a larger number of SEC cases, with adequate follow‐up, may allow for a more precise determination of aneuploidy incidence and neoplasia risk.