bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of tamoxifen on fibrosis, collagen content and transforming growth factor‐β1, ‐β2 and ‐β3 expression in common bile duct anastomosis of pigs
Authors: Siqueira Orlando Hiroshi Kiono , Oliveira Karen Jesus , Carvalho Angela Cristina Gouvêa , da Nóbrega Antonio Claudio Lucas , Medeiros Renata Frauches , Felix‐Patrício Bruno , Áscoli Fábio Otero , Olej Beni
Published: December 2017

End‐to‐end anastomosis in the treatment for bile duct injury during laparoscopic cholecystectomy has been associated with stricture formation. The aim of this study was to experimentally investigate the effect of oral tamoxifen (tmx) treatment on fibrosis, collagen content and transforming growth factor‐β1, ‐β2 and ‐β3 expression in common bile duct anastomosis of pigs. Twenty‐six pigs were divided into three groups [sham (n = 8), control (n = 9) and tmx (n = 9)]. The common bile ducts were transected and anastomosed in the control and tmx groups. Tmx (40 mg/day) was administered orally to the tmx group, and the animals were euthanized after 60 days. Fibrosis was analysed by Masson's trichrome staining. Picrosirius red was used to quantify the total collagen content and collagen type I/III ratio. mRNA expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1, ‐β2 and ‐β3 was quantified using real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). The control and study groups exhibited higher fibrosis than the sham group, and the study group showed lower fibrosis than the control group (P = 0.011). The control and tmx groups had higher total collagen content than the sham group (P = 0.003). The collagen type I/III ratio was higher in the control group than in the sham and tmx groups (P = 0.015). There were no significant differences in the mRNA expression of TGF‐β1, ‐β2 and ‐β3 among the groups (P > 0.05). Tmx decreased fibrosis and prevented the change in collagen type I/III ratio caused by the procedure.
Carnosine decreased oxidation and glycation products in serum and liver of high‐fat diet and low‐dose streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats
Authors: Aydın Abdurrahman Fatih , Bingül İlknur , Küçükgergin Canan , Doğan‐Ekici Işın , Doğru Abbasoğlu Semra , Uysal Müjdat
Published: December 2017

High‐fat diet (HFD) and low‐dose streptozotocin (STZ)‐treated rats provide useful animal model for type II diabetes mellitus. Oxidative stress and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) play a role in the development of diabetic complications. Carnosine (CAR) has anti‐oxidant and anti‐glycating properties. We investigated the effects of CAR on oxidation and glycation products in HFD+STZ rats. Rats were fed with HFD (60% of total calories from fat) for 4 weeks, and then a single dose of STZ (40 mg/kg; i.p.) was applied. Rats with blood glucose levels above 200 mg/dl were fed with HFD until the end of the 12th week. CAR (250 mg/kg body weight; i.p.; five times a week) was administered to the rats for the last four weeks. CAR significantly decreased serum triglyceride (TG) (57.7%), cholesterol (35.6%) levels and hepatic marker enzyme activities of HFD+STZ rats. It significantly reduced serum reactive oxygen species (ROS) (23.7%), AGEs (13.4%) and advanced oxidized protein products (AOPP) (35.9%) and hepatic TG (59%), ROS (26%), malondialdehyde (MDA) (11.5%), protein carbonyl (PC) (19.2%) and AGE (20.2%) levels. Liver steatosis and hepatocyte ballooning were also significantly reduced. However, CAR treatment did not alter serum glucose and blood glycated haemoglobin and hepatic anti‐oxidant enzyme activities/mRNA expressions in HFD+STZ rats. Our results indicate that CAR decreased accumulation of oxidation and glycation products, such as MDA, AGE, AOPP and PC in the serum and liver and ameliorated hepatic dysfunction in HFD+STZ rats. This effect may be related to its anti‐oxidative, anti‐glycating, and anti‐lipogenic potential.
Evaluation of factors related to glycaemic control among South Korean patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Choi Won‐Hee , Seo Yeong‐Mi , Ha Yeongmi
Published: December 2017

Aims

To examine specific self‐care behaviours, depression, and diabetes‐related stress among South Korean patients with type 2 diabetes and to evaluate whether these factors are related to glycaemic control.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 171 patients with type 2 diabetes who visited an endocrinology clinic. A structured questionnaire and electronic medical records were used to collect data regarding self‐care behaviours, depression, diabetes‐related distress, and glycaemic control between May 2015 and July 2015.

Results

Compared with the group with good glycaemic control, the group with poor glycaemic control had significantly lower values for medication adherence and significantly greater values for regimen‐related distress. Depression was not significantly associated with glycaemic control. In logistic regression analysis, only medication adherence was independently associated with glycaemic control.

Conclusions

Medication adherence should be continuously emphasized and monitored in clinical practice to effectively manage glycaemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, consideration of diabetes‐related distress may help improve glycaemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes.
Trends in outpatient anti‐arrhythmic prescriptions for atrial fibrillation and left atrial ablation in Australia: 1997–2016
Authors: Khan Ifrah , Patel Hitesh C. , Nanayakkara Shane , Raju Hariharan , Voskoboinik Aleksandr , Mariani Justin A.
Published: December 2017

Background

An important aspect of atrial fibrillation (AF) management is the decision whether to adopt a rate or rhythm control strategy. Options for the latter include oral anti‐arrhythmic drugs (AAD) or catheter ablation.

Aim

To describe the trends in rhythm control for AF in Australia between 1997 and 2016.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study using prospectively collected data between 1997 and 2016 from the Pharmaceutical Benefit Scheme and Medicare Benefit Schedule websites, which, respectively, contain information pertaining to public AAD prescriptions and rebatable AF ablation procedures performed in Australia.

Results

Sotalol and amiodarone remain the most commonly prescribed AAD in Australia, although their use is decreasing. Rates of catheter ablation for AF continue to rise annually with a 48‐fold increase from 71 to 3480 since 1997.

Conclusion

A rhythm control strategy is frequently utilised for AF management in Australia. Consistent with international guidelines which advocate safety over efficacy when choosing a rhythm control strategy, the prescriptions of amiodarone have been consistently decreasing since 2002, whereas sotalol and flecainide prescriptions have largely increased, with a peak in 2015. Catheter ablation per capita has burgeoned 36‐fold.
Enhancing metabolic monitoring for children and adolescents using second‐generation antipsychotics
Authors: Coughlin Mary , Goldie Catherine L. , Tregunno Deborah , Tranmer Joan , Kanellos‐Sutton Marina , Khalid‐Khan Sarosh
Published: December 2017

The prevalence of children and adolescents using second‐generation antipsychotics (SGAs) has increased significantly in recent years. In this population, SGAs are used to treat mood and behavioural disorders although considered ‘off‐label’ or not approved for these indications. Metabolic monitoring is the systematic physical health assessment of antipsychotic users utilized to detect cardiovascular and endocrine side effects and prevent adverse events such as weight gain, hyperglycaemia, hyperlipidemia, and arrhythmias. This practice ensures safe and efficacious SGA use among children and adolescents. Despite widely available, evidence‐based metabolic monitoring guidelines, rates of monitoring continue to be suboptimal; this exposes children to the unnecessary risk of developing poor cardiovascular health and long‐term disease. In this discursive paper, existing approaches to metabolic monitoring as well as challenges to implementing monitoring guidelines in practice are explored. The strengths and weaknesses of providing metabolic monitoring across outpatient psychiatry, primary care, and collaborative community settings are discussed. We suggest that there is no one‐size‐fits‐all solution to improving metabolic monitoring care for children and adolescents using SGA in all settings. However, we advocate for a pragmatic global approach to enhance safety of children and adolescents taking SGAs through collaboration among healthcare disciplines with a focus on integrating nurses as champions of metabolic monitoring.
Optimal overbooking decision for a “Hotel + OTA” dual‐channel supply chain
Authors: Ye Fei , Lu Murui , Li Yina
Published: December 2017

The overbooking problem with free upgrade substitution for a “Hotel + OTA (online travel agent)” dual‐channel supply chain is investigated. Under the Merchant model framework, the OTA's optimal purchasing quantity and the hotel's optimal overbooking level and strategy are analyzed. The findings reveal that a substitutable overbooking strategy (free upgrade is permitted) is the best for the hotel. However, the optimal decisions depend on parameters such as wholesale price, arrival rate of economy room's consumers, the probability of consumers persuaded to book luxury room, and demand uncertainties in two channels. The OTA's purchasing quantity for economy room decreases in wholesale price, the probability of consumers persuaded to book luxury rooms, and OTA channel demand uncertainty. The hotel's optimal overbooking level decreases in the arrival rate of economy room's consumers and the probability of consumers persuaded to book luxury room and increases in wholesale price and hotel direct channel demand uncertainty. Moreover, the hotel can affect the OTA's purchasing quantity decisions by adjusting wholesale prices and determine the optimal overbooking level to maximize the expected revenue accordingly.
Therapeutic options and postoperative wound complications after extremity soft tissue sarcoma resection and postoperative external beam radiotherapy
Authors: Abouarab Mohamed H , Salem Iman L , Degheidy Magdy M , Henn Dominic , Hirche Christoph , Eweida Ahmad , Uhl Matthias , Kneser Ulrich , Kremer Thomas
Published: December 2017

Soft tissue sarcomas occur most commonly in the lower and upper extremities. The standard treatment is limb salvage surgery combined with radiotherapy. Postoperative radiotherapy is associated with wound complications. This systematic review aims to summarise the available evidence and review the literature of the last 10 years regarding postoperative wound complications in patients who had limb salvage surgical excision followed by direct closure vs flap coverage together with postoperative radiotherapy and to define the optimal timeframe for adjuvant radiotherapy after soft tissue sarcomas resection and flap reconstruction. A literature search was performed using PubMed. The following keywords were searched: limb salvage, limb‐sparing, flaps, radiation therapy, radiation, irradiation, adjuvant radiotherapy, postoperative radiotherapy, radiation effects, wound healing, surgical wound infection, surgical wound dehiscence, wound healing, soft tissue sarcoma and neoplasms. In total, 1045 papers were retrieved. Thirty‐seven articles were finally selected after screening of abstracts and applying dates and language filters and inclusion and exclusion criteria. Plastic surgery provides a vast number of reconstructive flap procedures that are directly linked to decreasing wound complications, especially with the expectant postoperative radiotherapy. This adjuvant radiotherapy is better administered in the first 3–6 weeks after reconstruction to allow timely wound healing and avoid local recurrence.
A randomised, controlled, non‐inferiority trial comparing the performance of a soft silicone‐coated wound contact layer (Mepitel One) with a lipidocolloid wound contact layer (UrgoTul) in the treatment of acute wounds
Authors: David Franck , Wurtz Jean‐Louis , Breton Nicolas , Bisch Olivier , Gazeu Philippe , Kerihuel Jean‐Charles , Guibon Odile
Published: December 2017

Wound contact layer (WCL) dressings are intended to protect tissue during the healing process. A randomised controlled trial was undertaken to compare 2 such dressings. Outpatients with acute wounds were randomly allocated to treatment with either a soft silicone‐coated WCL (intervention group, n = 59) or a lipidocolloid‐impregnated WCL (control group, n = 62). At the first dressing removal (day 3), 89.8% of patients in the intervention group experienced non‐painful dressing removal (defined as a pain rating <30 mm on a 100 mm visual analogue scale), compared with 73.6% of patients in the control group (P = .017) (per protocol population). At day 21, wounds were considered as healed in 66.1% of patients in the intervention group compared with 43.5% in the control group (P = .012) (intention‐to‐treat population). Both dressings were well tolerated and rated highly in terms of in‐use characteristics, although the soft silicone‐coated WCL was rated significantly higher than the lipidocolloid‐impregnated WCL in terms of its ability to remain in place (P= .016). The results indicate that the soft silicone‐coated WCL is suitable for the management of acute wounds as it can minimise dressing‐associated pain and support healing.
Facilitating comprehension of non‐native English speakers during lectures in English with STR‐texts
Authors: Shadiev Rustam , Wu Ting‐Ting , Huang Yueh‐Min
Published: December 2017

We provided texts generated by speech‐to text‐recognition (STR) technology for non‐native English speaking students during lectures in English in order to test whether STR‐texts were useful for enhancing students' comprehension of lectures. To this end, we carried out an experiment in which 60 participants were randomly assigned to a control group (i.e., 30 participants who learned without STR‐texts) and an experimental group (i.e., 30 participants who learned with STR‐texts). Our results showed that the participants in the experimental group outperformed those in the control group. Our second objective was to explore the effectiveness of STR‐texts on the learning performance of the experimental‐group participants with different levels of English as a Foreign Language ability, that is, high and low. The results showed that the low ability students had lower self‐efficacy than the high ability students. The results also showed no significant effect of STR‐texts on the post‐test scores of the low and high ability participants after controlling for the effect of English as a Foreign Language ability. No significant difference was found in cognitive load and anxiety of the low and high ability participants. Based on the implications of our findings, several suggestions are made for the teaching and research communities.
Neuroprotection by quercetin via mitochondrial function adaptation in traumatic brain injury: PGC‐1α pathway as a potential mechanism
Authors: Li Xiang , Wang Handong , Wen Guodao , Li Liwen , Gao Yongyue , Zhuang Zong , Zhou Mengliang , Mao Lei , Fan Youwu
Published: December 2017

The aim of this study was to investigate the neuroprotective effects of quercetin in mouse models of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and the potential role of the PGC‐1α pathway in putative neuroprotection. Wild‐type mice were randomly assigned to four groups: the sham group, the TBI group, the TBI+vehicle group and the TBI+quercetin group. Quercetin, a dietary flavonoid used as a food supplement, significantly reduced TBI‐induced neuronal apoptosis and ameliorated mitochondrial lesions. It significantly accelerated the translocation of PGC‐1α protein from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. In addition, quercetin restored the level of cytochrome c, malondialdehyde and superoxide dismutase in mitochondria. Therefore, quercetin administration can potentially attenuate brain injury in a TBI model by increasing the activities of mitochondrial biogenesis via the mediation of the PGC‐1α pathway.
Honest, Open, Proud for adolescents with mental illness: pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mulfinger Nadine , Müller Sabine , Böge Isabel , Sakar Vehbi , Corrigan Patrick W. , Evans‐Lacko Sara , Nehf Luise , Djamali Julia , Samarelli Anna , Kempter Michael , Ruckes Christian , Libal Gerhard , Oexle Nathalie , Noterdaeme Michele , Rüsch Nicolas
Published: December 2017

Background

Due to public stigma or self‐stigma and shame, many adolescents with mental illness (MI) struggle with the decision whether to disclose their MI to others. Both disclosure and nondisclosure are associated with risks and benefits. Honest, Open, Proud (HOP) is a peer‐led group program that supports participants with disclosure decisions in order to reduce stigma's impact. Previously, HOP had only been evaluated among adults with MI.

Methods

This two‐arm pilot randomized controlled trial included 98 adolescents with MI. Participants were randomly assigned to HOP and treatment as usual (TAU) or to TAU alone. Outcomes were assessed pre (T0/baseline), post (T1/after the HOP program), and at 3‐week follow‐up (T2/6 weeks after T0). Primary endpoints were stigma stress at T1 and quality of life at T2. Secondary outcomes included self‐stigma, disclosure‐related distress, empowerment, help‐seeking intentions, recovery, and depressive symptoms. The trial is registered on ClinicalTrials (NCT02751229; http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).

Results

Compared to TAU, adolescents in the HOP program showed significantly reduced stigma stress at T1 (d = .92, p < .001) and increased quality of life at T2 (d = .60, p = .004). In a longitudinal mediation model, the latter effect was fully mediated by stigma stress reduction at T1. HOP further showed significant positive effects on self‐stigma, disclosure‐related distress, secrecy, help‐seeking intentions, attitudes to disclosure, recovery, and depressive symptoms. Effects at T1 remained stable or improved further at follow‐up. In a limited economic evaluation HOP was cost‐efficient in relation to gains in quality of life.

Conclusions

As HOP is a compact three‐session program and showed positive effects on stigma and disclosure variables as well as on symptoms and quality of life, it could help to reduce stigma's negative impact among adolescents with MI.
Effect of tooth brushing on gloss retention and surface roughness of five bulk‐fill resin composites
Authors: O'Neill Catherine , Kreplak Laurent , Rueggeberg Frederick A. , Labrie Daniel , Shimokawa Carlos Alberto Kenji , Price Richard Bengt
Published: December 2017

Objectives

To determine the effects of tooth brushing on five bulk‐fill resin based composites (RBCs).

Method

Ten samples of Filtek Supreme Enamel (control), Filtek One Bulk Fill, Tetric EvoCeram Bulk Fill, SonicFill 2, SDR flow+, and Admira Fusion X‐tra were light cured for 20 seconds using the Valo Grand curing light. After 24 hours storage in air at 37°C, specimens were brushed in a random order using Colgate OpticWhite dentifrice and a soft toothbrush. Surface gloss was measured prior to brushing, after 5,000, 10,000 and 15,000 back and forth brushing cycles. Surface roughness was measured after 15,000 brushing cycles using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and selected scanning electron microscope (SEM) images were taken. The data was examined using ANOVA and pair‐wise comparisons using Scheffe's post‐hoc multiple comparison tests (α = 0.05).

Results

Surface gloss decreased and the surface roughness increased after brushing. Two‐way ANOVA showed that both the RBC and the number of brushing cycles had a significant negative effect on the gloss. One‐way ANOVA showed that the RBC had a significant effect on the roughness after 15,000 brushing cycles. For both gloss and roughness, brushing had the least effect on the nano‐filled control and nano‐filled bulk‐fill RBC, and the greatest negative effect on Admira Fusion X‐tra. The SEM images provided visual agreement. There was an excellent linear correlation (R2 = 0.98) between the logarithm of the gloss and roughness.

Conclusion

After brushing, the bulk‐fill RBCs were all rougher than the control nano‐filled RBC. The nano‐filled bulk‐fill RBC was the least affected by brushing.

Clinical Significance

Bulk‐fill RBCs lose their gloss faster and become rougher than the nanofilled conventional RBC, Filtek Supreme Ultra. The nanofilled bulk‐fill RBC was the least affected by tooth brushing.
Detection and molecular characterization of betanodaviruses retrieved from bivalve molluscs
Authors: Volpe E , Grodzki M , Panzarin V , Guercio A , Purpari G , Serratore P , Ciulli S
Published: December 2017

Betanodaviruses are small ssRNA viruses responsible for viral encephalopathy and retinopathy, otherwise known as viral nervous necrosis, in marine fish worldwide. These viruses can be either horizontally or vertically transmitted and have been sporadically detected in invertebrates, which seem to be one of the possible viral sources. Twenty‐eight new betanodavirus strains were retrieved in three molluscs species collected from different European countries between 2008 and 2015. The phylogenetic analyses revealed that strains retrieved from bivalve molluscs are closely related to viruses detected in finfish in Southern Europe in the period 2000–2009. Nevertheless, a new betanodavirus strain, markedly different from the other members of the RGNNV genotype, was detected. Such a massive and varied presence of betanodaviruses in bivalve molluscs greatly stresses the risks of transmission previously feared for other invertebrates. Bivalve molluscs reared in the same area as farmed and wild finfish could act as a reservoir of the virus. Furthermore, current European regulations allow relaying activities and the sale of live bivalve molluscs, which could pose a real risk of spreading betanodaviruses across different geographic regions. To our knowledge, this is the first study, which focuses on the detection and genetic characterization of betanodaviruses in bivalve molluscs.
Efficacy of topical 5‐aminosalicylate monotherapy in patients with ulcerative proctitis with skip inflammation
Authors: Choi Yong Sung , Kim Wan Jung , Kim Jong Kyu , Kim Do Sun , Lee Doo Han
Published: December 2017

Background and Aim

In some patients with ulcerative proctitis (UP), skip inflammation is noted in the right side of the colon, but little is known about its clinical course. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical course of UP with skip inflammation and the efficacy of topical 5‐aminosalicylate (5‐ASA) monotherapy.

Methods

This study reviewed the data of 388 patients with an initial diagnosis of UP from January 2005 to October 2015. This study matched each UP patient with skip inflammation 1:2 with controls who had UP without skip inflammation; to reduce bias, this study matched the controls with the cases by age, gender, and initial disease activity.

Results

During the follow‐up period (median: 69.5 months), the overall progression rates for the control group (n = 192) and the skip inflammation group (n = 96) were 24.0% and 32.9% at 10 years, respectively (log–rank P = 0.71). In the skip inflammation group, the progression rates were not significantly different between the 5‐ASA combination group and the topical group, 33.4% and 26.6% at 10 years, respectively (log–rank P = 0.96). The overall acute exacerbation rates for the control and skip inflammation groups were 17.2% and 26.8% at 10 years, respectively (log–rank P = 0.68). In the skip inflammation group, the exacerbation rates were also not significantly different between the combination and topical treatment groups, 26.6% and 23.6% at 10 years, respectively (log–rank P = 0.88).

Conclusion

The clinical course of UP with skip inflammation was not different from that of typical UP, and topical 5‐ASA monotherapy for maintaining remission was as effective as 5‐ASA combination therapy irrespective of the presence of skip lesions.
Acute kidney injury impact on inpatient mortality in Clostridium difficile infection: A national propensity‐matched study
Authors: Charilaou Paris , Devani Kalpit , John Febin , Kanna Sowjanya , Ahlawat Sushil , Young Mark , Khanna Sahil , Reddy Chakradhar
Published: December 2017

Background and Aim

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is used as a marker of severity in Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) patients. We estimated the true effect of AKI in inpatient mortality of CDI patients, as there are no large‐scale, population‐based, propensity‐matched studies evaluating AKI's effect in this patient cohort.

Methods

A retrospective observational study utilizing the National Inpatient Sample from years 2003 to 2012, including all adults with CDI, excluding cases missing data on age, inpatient mortality or gender. Trends and CDI‐related complications as mortality predictors were assessed using survey‐weighted multivariable regression. We estimated AKI's independent effect by propensity‐matching, post‐stratifying by chronic kidney disease status, allowing for multiple comorbidity adjustment.

Results

A total of 2 859 599 patients with CDI were included, of which 896 122 (31.3%) had principal diagnosis of CDI. AKI prevalence was 22%. Mortality rate was 8.4%, while among AKI patients was higher (18.2%). In multivariable regression, AKI was associated with higher mortality (odds ratio [OR] = 3.16, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.02–3.30; P < 0.001), while after propensity matching, AKI increased mortality by 86% (OR = 1.86, 95% CI: 1.79–1.94; P < 0.001). CDI incidence increased by 1.8, together with the rate of AKI (12.6% in 2003 to 28.8% in 2012, P‐trend < 0.001). Despite increasing hospitalizations, mortality over the study period decreased to 7.2% (2012) from 9.0% (2003); P‐trend < 0.001.

Conclusion

Hospital admissions of patients with CDI and concomitant AKI are increasing, but their inpatient mortality has improved over the study period. AKI is a significant contributor to mortality, independently of other comorbidities, complications, and hospital characteristics, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis and aggressive management in such patients.
Combination of increased visceral fat and long segment involvement: Development and validation of an updated imaging marker for differentiating Crohn's disease from intestinal tuberculosis
Authors: Kedia Saurabh , Madhusudhan Kumble S , Sharma Raju , Bopanna Sawan , Yadav Dawesh P , Goyal Sandeep , Jain Saransh , Das Prasenjit , Dattagupta Siddhartha , Makharia Govind , Ahuja Vineet
Published: December 2017

Background and Aim

Computed tomographic (CT) features (long segment, ileocaecal area involvement, and lymph nodes > 1 cm) have demonstrated good specificity but poor sensitivity, while visceral to subcutaneous fat ratio on CT (VF/SC > 0.63) has moderate sensitivity and specificity in differentiating Crohn's disease (CD) and intestinal tuberculosis (ITB). This study aims to develop and validate an updated model incorporating CT features and VF/SC to improve the diagnostic accuracy of imaging in differentiating CD/ITB.

Methods

Computed tomographic features and VF/SC were documented in two cohorts (development [n = 59, follow‐up: January 2012 to November 2014] and validation [n = 69, follow‐up: December 2014 to December 2015]) of CD/ITB patients diagnosed by standard criteria. Patients with normal CT were excluded. Features significantly different between CD/ITB were incorporated into a model.

Results

In both the cohorts, necrotic lymph nodes were exclusive for ITB (23.1% vs 0% and 43.3% vs 0%), while long segment involvement (57.6% vs 7.7%, P < 0.001, and 52.6% vs 16.1%, P < 0.001) and VF/SC ratio > 0.63 (72.7% vs 19.2%, P < 0.001, and 81.6% vs 25.8%, P < 0.001) were significantly more common in CD. A risk score of 2, based upon long segment involvement and VF/SC ratio > 0.63, had an excellent specificity of 100% and 100% and sensitivity of 54% and 50% for CD in development and validation cohorts, respectively. Based upon these features, in 43% patients with the diagnostic dilemma of CD/ITB, a definite diagnosis based only on imaging could be made.

Conclusion

Necrotic lymph nodes are exclusive for ITB, and the combination of long segment involvement and VF/SC ratio > 0.63 is exclusive for CD, and these features can make a definite diagnosis in 43% patients with a CD/ITB dilemma.
Report and Research Agenda of the American Geriatrics Society and National Institute on Aging Bedside‐to‐Bench Conference on Urinary Incontinence in Older Adults: A Translational Research Agenda for a Complex Geriatric Syndrome
Authors: Vaughan Camille P. , Markland Alayne D. , Smith Phillip P. , Burgio Kathryn L. , Kuchel George A. ,   the American Geriatrics Society/National Institute on Aging Urinary Incontinence Conference Planning Committee and Faculty
Published: December 2017

The American Geriatrics Society, with support from the National Institute on Aging and other funders, held its ninth Bedside‐to‐Bench research conference, entitled “Urinary Incontinence in the Older Adult: A Translational Research Agenda for a Complex Geriatric Syndrome,” October 16 to 18, 2016, in Bethesda, Maryland. As part of a conference series addressing three common geriatric syndromes—delirium, sleep and circadian rhythm disturbance, and urinary incontinence—the series highlighted relationships and pertinent clinical and pathophysiological commonalities between these conditions. The conference provided a forum for discussing current epidemiology, basic science, and clinical and translational research on urinary incontinence in older adults; for identifying gaps in knowledge; and for developing a research agenda to inform future investigative efforts. The conference also promoted networking involving emerging researchers and thought leaders in the field of incontinence, aging, and other fields of research, as well as National Institutes of Health program personnel.
No difference in self‐reported frequency of choking between infants introduced to solid foods using a baby‐led weaning or traditional spoon‐feeding approach
Authors: Brown A.
Published: December 2017

Background

Baby‐led weaning (BLW) where infants self‐feed family foods during the period that they are introduced to solid foods is growing in popularity. The method may promote healthier eating patterns, although concerns have been raised regarding its safety. The present study therefore explored choking frequency amongst babies who were being introduced to solid foods using a baby‐led or traditional spoon‐fed approach.

Methods

In total, 1151 mothers with an infant aged 4–12 months reported how they introduced solid foods to their infant (following a strict BLW, loose BLW or traditional weaning style) and frequency of spoon‐feeding and puree use (percentage of mealtimes). Mothers recalled if their infant had ever choked and, if so, how many times and on what type of food (smooth puree, lumpy puree, finger food and specific food examples).

Results

In total, 13.6% of infants (n = 155) had ever choked. No significant association was found between weaning style and ever choking, or the frequency of spoon or puree use and ever choking. For infants who had ever choked, infants following a traditional weaning approach experience significantly more choking episodes for finger foods (F2,147 = 4.417, P = 0.014) and lumpy purees (F2,131 = 6.46, P = 0.002) than infants following a strict or loose baby‐led approach.

Conclusions

Baby‐led weaning was not associated with increased risk of choking and the highest frequency of choking on finger foods occurred in those who were given finger foods the least often. However, the limitations of noncausal results, a self‐selecting sample and reliability of recall must be emphasised.
Fundamental movement skills and balance of children with Down syndrome
Authors: Capio C. M. , Mak T. C. T. , Tse M. A. , Masters R. S. W.
Published: December 2017

Background

Conclusive evidence supports the importance of fundamental movement skills (FMS) proficiency in promoting physical activity and countering obesity. In children with Down Syndrome (DS), FMS development is delayed, which has been suggested to be associated with balance deficits. This study therefore examined the relationship between FMS proficiency and balance ability in children with DS, with the aim of contributing evidence to programmes that address FMS delay.

Methods

Participants consisted of 20 children with DS (7.1 ± 2.9 years old) and an age‐matched control group of children with typical development (7.25 ± 2.5 years). In the first part of the study, FMS (i.e. locomotor and object control) proficiency of the children was tested using the Test of Gross Motor Development‐2. Balance ability was assessed using a force platform to measure centre of pressure average velocity (AV; mm/sec), path length (mm), medio‐lateral standard deviation (mm) and antero‐posterior standard deviation (mm). In the second part of the study, children with DS participated in 5 weeks of FMS training. FMS proficiency and balance ability were tested post‐training and compared to pre‐training scores. Verbal and visuo‐spatial short‐term memory capacities were measured at pre‐training to verify the role of working memory in skill learning.

Results

FMS proficiency was associated with centre of pressure parameters in children with DS but not in children with typical development. After controlling for age, AV was found to predict significant variance in locomotor (R2 = 0.61, P < 0.001) and object control (R2 = 0.69, P < 0.001) scores. FMS proficiency and mastery improved after FMS training, as did AV, path length and antero‐posterior standard deviation (all P < 0.05). Verbal and visuo‐spatial short‐term memory did not interact with the effects of training.

Conclusions

Children with DS who have better balance ability tend to have more proficient FMS. Skill‐specific training improved not only FMS sub‐skills but static balance stability as well. Working memory did not play a role in the changes caused by skills training. Future research should examine the causal relationship between balance and FMS.
High‐Tand low‐Pmetamorphism in the Xilingol Complex of central Inner Mongolia, China: An indicator of extension in a previous orogeny
Authors: Zhang Jin‐Rui , Wei Chun‐Jing , Chu H.
Published: December 2017

The Xilingol Complex comprises biotite gneisses and amphibolite interlayers with extensive migmatization. Four representative samples were documented and found to record either two or three metamorphic stages. Phase modelling usingthermocalcsuggests that the observed assemblages represent the final stages that underwent cooling from temperature peaks, and are consistent with a fluid‐absent solidus inP–Tpseudosections. TheirP–Tconditions are further constrained to be 5–6 kbar/680–725°C and 4–5 kbar/650–680°C for two garnet‐bearing gneiss samples, 4–5 kbar/660–730°C for a cordierite‐bearing gneiss sample, and 4–5 kbar/680–710°C for an amphibolite sample based on mineral composition isopleths, involving measured Mg content in biotite, anorthite in plagioclase, grossular and pyrope in garnet and Ti content in amphibole. The peak temperature conditions recovered are 760–790°C or >760°C at 5–6 kbar based on the composition isopleths of plagioclase, biotite, garnet and especially the comparison of melt contents between the calculated and observed. A pre‐peak heating process with slight decompression can be suggested for some samples on the basis of the core–rim increase in the plagioclase anorthite, and the stability of ilmenite. Zircon U–Pb dating using theLA‐ICP‐MSmethod provides systemic constraints on the metamorphic ages of the Xilingol Complex to be 348–305 Ma, interpreted to represent the post‐peak cooling stages. Moreover, metagabbroic dykes that intruded into the Xilingol Complex yield 317 ± 3 Ma from magmatic zircon, and are considered to have played a significant role for heat advection triggering the high‐Tand low‐Pmetamorphism. Thus, the clockwiseP–Tpaths involving pre‐peak heating, peak and post‐peak cooling recovered for the Xilingol Complex are consistent with an extensional setting in the Carboniferous that developed on a previous orogen in response to addition of mantle‐derived materials probably together with upwelling of the asthenospheric mantle.
Melanomacrophage functions in the liver of the caecilian Siphonops annulatus
Authors: Gutierre Robson Campos , Jared Carlos , Antoniazzi Marta Maria , Coppi Antonio Augusto , Egami Mizue Imoto
Published: December 2017

Melanomacrophages are phagocytes that synthesize melanin. They are found in the liver and spleen of ectothermic vertebrates, and in the kidney of fish. In agnathan and elasmobranch fish, melanomacrophages are seen as isolated cells, and forming clusters in all the other vertebrates. The natural phagocytic activity of melanomacrophages is poorly characterized, as most of the research works have focused on induced phagocytic activity only. Furthermore, little is known about amphibian melanomacrophages, mainly about those in caecilians – wormlike amphibians in the order of Gymnophiona, which is the least known group of terrestrial vertebrates. The present research work aimed at the structure and function of hepatic melanomacrophages of Siphonops annulatus, a species largely found in South America. We identified the role of these cells in the control of circulating basophils (pro‐melanogenic cells), in the turnover of liver collagen stroma and in the hemocatheresis, interrelated physiological mechanisms.
Enhancing Environmentally Conscious Consumption through Standardized Sustainability Information
Authors: Cho Yoon‐Na , Soster Robin L. , Burton Scot
Published: December 2017

In today's retail marketplace, consumers receive little or no consistent brand‐level sustainability information, but this may change in the near future. Developing hypotheses based on the comparative brand processing and information disclosure literatures, we conduct a retail laboratory choice‐based experiment to test predictions related to the effects of brand‐level sustainability information on choices, product evaluations, and retailer perceptions. Compared to the status quo condition in which no sustainability information is provided for the product category at the retail point of purchase, the addition of positive (negative) sustainability information for the brand yields higher (lower) product evaluations and increased (decreased) brand choice. In addition, due to greenwashing concerns, many consumers may be skeptical of product‐level sustainability information, and we address the moderating role of this skepticism on retailer‐related perceptions.
Immediate effect and safety of HIFU single treatment for male subcutaneous fat reduction
Authors: Guth Fernanda , Bitencourt Shanna , Bedinot Cícero , Sinigaglia Giovana , Tassinary João Alberto Fioravante
Published: December 2017

Background

The increasing search for procedures for fat reduction is related to dissatisfaction with body shape. High‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) has been proven effective in body sculpting when used noninvasively to reduce subcutaneous fat and improve body contour.

Aims

This study aimed to evaluate the immediate effect and safety of HIFU single treatment for male localized fat and body remodeling.

Patients/Methods

Twenty‐four male subjects (18 to 59 years old) with BMI ≤ 30 kg/cm² and at least 2 cm of abdominal fat received a single HIFU treatment session. Individuals were subjected to abdominal measurements before and after procedure. In addition, biochemical analyses of blood samples were performed to assess possible inflammatory effects or oxidative stress induction by the treatment.

Results

High‐intensity focused ultrasound was found to be an effective treatment in reducing localized adiposities in the abdominal region. A significant decrease (0.6%) was observed in infraumbilical circumference of subjects submitted to HIFU single treatment when compared with control subjects. The laboratory parameters did not present any appreciable changes.

Conclusion

This study further strengthens the current view that HIFU is an effective and safe tool for localized fat reduction.
A two‐center, assessor‐blinded, prospective trial evaluating the efficacy of a novel hypertonic draining cream for cellulite reduction: A Clinical and instrumental (Antera 3D CS) assessment
Authors: Puviani Mario , Tovecci Federica , Milani Massimo
Published: December 2017

Introduction

Gynoid lipodystrophy, also known as cellulite, is a very common skin alteration representing mainly a cosmetic problem rather than a real disease. An effective treatment of cellulite has not been well established. The initial phase of cellulite is characterized by subdermal tissue edema with interstitial fluids retention. A new hypertonic topical product with draining action (HTC) containing NaCl 13%, escine, caffeine, and beta‐sitosterol has been recently developed. A 28‐day double‐blind placebo‐controlled study has shown that this cream is able to reduce thigh circumference and the thickness of adipose tissue. No data so far are available regarding an objective evaluation of skin appearance for a longer application period.

Study aim

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of 2‐month HCT treatment with clinical and instrumental assessments.

Subjects and methods

In a prospective, 2‐center, assessor‐blinded trial 20 women (mean age 34 years) with cellulite of Grade I‐III in severity were enrolled after their informed consent. HTC was applied once daily for 60 days. Primary outcomes of the trial were the evolution of thigh circumference measurements (assessed at baseline, after 1 and 2 months) and the computer‐analysis of skin profilometry (ie, skin volumes) of a prespecified target area evaluated by means of Antera 3D CS digitalized images (assessed at baseline and at the end of the trial). Secondary outcome was the orange peel severity score (from 0 to 5) before and after pitch test.

Results

All subjects concluded the study period. Thigh circumference was reduced by −0.88 (right)/−1.2 cm (left) and by −1.8(right)/−2.1 (left) cm, after 30 and 60 days of treatment, respectively (P = .001, Wilcoxon test vs baseline). Antera 3D profilometry of the target zone showed a significant reduction in skin depression expressed in mm3 of −56% (from 59.7 to 26.73 mm3) after HTC application. Orange peel (no pitch test) mean (SD) score was 2.3 (1) at baseline, 2.0 (1) and 1.8 (0.8) after 1 and 2 months (P = .0031), respectively. After‐pitch orange peel score was significantly reduced after treatment (from 3.3 to 2.2).

Conclusion

Once daily application of HTC for 2 months has confirmed its efficacy in the improvement of objective and subjective assessments of cellulite parameters.(Trial Number registration: ISRCTN15111614).
Fetal sex discordance in a monochorionic twin pregnancy following intracytoplasmic sperm injection: A case report of chimerism and review of the literature
Authors: Uysal Nihal Ş. , Gülümser Çağrı , Çelik Zerrin Y. , Zeyneloğlu Hulusi B. , Yanık Filiz F. B.
Published: December 2017

A 39‐year‐old woman who became pregnant with twins after an intracytoplasmic sperm injection was referred at the ninth gestational week to determine chorionicity. Ultrasonographic examination showed a monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancy. First trimester nuchal translucency measurements of the fetuses were 1.6 and 2.7 mm. A non‐invasive prenatal test was performed and revealed low risk. One fetus appeared to be female and the other male at the 14th gestational week. Second trimester anatomic scanning results were otherwise normal for both fetuses. The newborns delivered at term appeared to be normal female and male babies phenotypically. At the fourth month, buccal cell analysis showed chimeric karyotypes, 46,XX[98]/46,XY[2] and 46,XY[98]/46,XX[2] in the female and male infant, respectively. The recognition of sex discordance despite monochorionicity may be a clue for the diagnosis of such rare cases of chimerism in dizygotic twins, most of which occur in pregnancies obtained by assisted reproductive technology.
Cerebral White Matter Maturation Patterns in Preterm Infants: An MRI T2 Relaxation Anisotropy and Diffusion Tensor Imaging Study
Authors: Knight Michael J. , Smith‐Collins Adam , Newell Sarah , Denbow Mark , Kauppinen Risto A.
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Preterm birth is associated with worse neurodevelopmental outcome, but brain maturation in preterm infants is poorly characterized with standard methods. We evaluated white matter (WM) of infant brains at term‐equivalent age, as a function of gestational age at birth, using multimodal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

METHODS

Infants born very preterm (<32 weeks gestation) and late preterm (33‐36 weeks gestation) were scanned at 3 T at term‐equivalent age using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and T2 relaxometry. MRI data were analyzed using tract‐based spatial statistics, and anisotropy of T2 relaxation was also determined. Principal component analysis and linear discriminant analysis were applied to seek the variables best distinguishing very preterm and late preterm groups.

RESULTS

Across widespread regions of WM, T2 is longer in very preterm infants than in late preterm ones. These effects are more prevalent in regions of WM that myelinate earlier and faster. Similar effects are obtained from DTI, showing that fractional anisotropy (FA) is lower and radial diffusivity higher in the very preterm group, with a bias toward earlier myelinating regions. Discriminant analysis shows high sensitivity and specificity of combined T2 relaxometry and DTI for the detection of a distinct WM development pathway in very preterm infants. T2 relaxation is anisotropic, depending on the angle between WM fiber and magnetic field, and this effect is modulated by FA.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined T2 relaxometry and DTI characterizes specific patterns of retarded WM maturation, at term equivalent age, in infants born very preterm relative to late preterm.
Health‐care professionals’ approach in feeding term small‐for‐gestational age infants and its potential implications to later growth outcomes
Authors: Lee Le Ye , Muhardi Leilani , Cheah Fook‐Choe , Supapannachart Sarayut , Teller Inga C , Bindels Jacques , van Der Beek Eline M , van Elburg Ruurd M
Published: December 2017

Aim

To understand feeding practices, nutrition management and postnatal growth monitoring of term small‐for‐gestational age (tSGA) infants in Southeast Asia.

Methods

Anonymous questionnaires to assess practices on feeding, nutrition management and post‐natal growth monitoring of tSGA infants were distributed among health‐care professionals (HCPs) participating in regional/local perinatology symposia in Malaysia, Thailand and Singapore.

Results

Three hundred seventy‐seven respondents from Malaysia (37%), Thailand (27%), Singapore (18%) and other Asian countries (19%) participated in the survey. Respondents were neonatologists (35%), paediatricians (25%) and other HCPs (40%) including nurses and midwives. Exclusive human milk feeding was reported the most preferred feeding option for tSGA infants, followed by fortified human milk feeding (60% and 20%, respectively). This was consistent among the different countries. The perceived nutrient requirements of tSGA infants varied between countries. Most respondents from Malaysia and Singapore reported requirements to be similar to preterm infants, while the majority from Thailand reported that it was less than those of preterm infants. The World Health Organization Growth Chart of 2006 and Fenton Growth Charts of 2013 were the most frequently used charts for growth monitoring in the hospital and after discharge.

Conclusions

Nutrition management and perceived nutrient requirements for tSGA infants among practising HCPs in Southeast Asia showed considerable variation. The impetus to form standardised and evidence based feeding regimens is important as adequate nutritional management and growth monitoring particularly in this population of infants will have long term impact on population health.