bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abnormal frontoparietal synaptic gain mediating the P300 in patients with psychotic disorder and their unaffected relatives
Authors: Díez Álvaro , Ranlund Siri , Pinotsis Dimitris , Calafato Stella , Shaikh Madiha , Hall Mei‐Hua , Walshe Muriel , Nevado Ángel , Friston Karl J. , Adams Rick A. , Bramon Elvira
Published: March 2017

The “dysconnection hypothesis” of psychosis suggests that a disruption of functional integration underlies cognitive deficits and clinical symptoms. Impairments in the P300 potential are well documented in psychosis. Intrinsic (self‐)connectivity in a frontoparietal cortical hierarchy during a P300 experiment was investigated. Dynamic Causal Modeling was used to estimate how evoked activity results from the dynamics of coupled neural populations and how neural coupling changes with the experimental factors. Twenty‐four patients with psychotic disorder, twenty‐four unaffected relatives, and twenty‐five controls underwent EEG recordings during an auditory oddball paradigm. Sixteen frontoparietal network models (including primary auditory, superior parietal, and superior frontal sources) were analyzed and an optimal model of neural coupling, explaining diagnosis and genetic risk effects, as well as their interactions with task condition were identified. The winning model included changes in connectivity at all three hierarchical levels. Patients showed decreased self‐inhibition—that is, increased cortical excitability—in left superior frontal gyrus across task conditions, compared with unaffected participants. Relatives had similar increases in excitability in left superior frontal and right superior parietal sources, and a reversal of the normal synaptic gain changes in response to targets relative to standard tones. It was confirmed that both subjects with psychotic disorder and their relatives show a context‐independent loss of synaptic gain control at the highest hierarchy levels. The relatives also showed abnormal gain modulation responses to task‐relevant stimuli. These may be caused by NMDA‐receptor and/or GABAergic pathologies that change the excitability of superficial pyramidal cells and may be a potential biological marker for psychosis. Hum Brain Mapp 38:3262–3276, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Dynamic Estimation of Obesity Using Nhanes Data: A Pseudo‐Panel Approach
Authors: Saksena Michelle , Maldonado Norman
Published: March 2017

In this analysis, we examine the effect of wages on obesity by constructing pseudo‐panels to conduct a dynamic estimation of Grossman's human capital model. The results indicate that wages have an increasing effect on obesity status. After accounting for past health status, the protective effect of wages commonly disseminated in the literature reverses on obesity status. The results may also indicate possible asymmetric consumption behavior between foods/nutrients that improve diet quality versus those that degrade it. Individuals may be more keen to adhere to prophylactic diet strategies that abate consumption of unhealthy food/nutrients rather than measures which increase healthy nutrient consumption. Additionally, wages have an increasing effect on overall total calories consumed. These findings suggest that higher wage earners may focus their diet efforts on reducing consumption of specific nutrients but compensate by overconsuming other types of nutrients increasing overall calorie intake. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of the safety of electrotome, Harmonic scalpel, and LigaSure for management of thyroid surgery
Authors: Yang Xiaodong , Cao Jian , Yan Yichao , Liu Fangfang , Li Tao , Han Long , Ye Chunxiang , Zheng Shuying , Wang Shan , Ye Yingjiang , Jiang Kewei
Published: March 2017

Background

Energy‐based surgical devices, including electrotome, the Harmonic scalpel, and LigaSure, have been widely applied in thyroid surgery, although a comparison of their safety and efficacy has not been reported yet. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of using hemostatic energy‐based surgical devices during thyroid surgery in a canine model.

Methods

Twenty‐four beagle dogs were randomly divided into the following groups: electrotome (30 kW), electrotome (15 kW), the Harmonic scalpel (output level 3), and LigaSure (middle gear). The hemostatic devices were applied on the thyroid surface for 3 seconds and then near the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN; distance of 5 mm, 3 mm, or 1 mm) for 3 seconds. Evoked electromyography (EMG) amplitudes were recorded by intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM). Acute microstructural morphological damage to thyroid tissues and the RLN were evaluated immediately after the procedure by light and electron microscopy.

Results

Electrotome caused a significant decrease in evoked EMG amplitudes when applied at a vertical distance of 1 mm from the RLN, both at 30 kW (1046 ± 404.3 μV vs 153 ± 245.5 μV; p < .001) and 15 kW (1197 ± 589.2 μV vs 986.3 ± 797.3 μV; p = .037), compared with those evoked under normal conditions. Furthermore, distinct acute microstructural morphological changes of the RLNs were observed by light and electron microscopy. However, no significant functional or histological changes were induced by the electrotome at a vertical distance of 5 mm or 3 mm from the RLN. The Harmonic scalpel and LigaSure induced neither marked changes in evoked EMG amplitudes when applied at vertical distances of 5 mm, 3 mm, or 1 mm (all p > .05) nor microstructural morphological changes in the RLNs. The electrotome (15 kW) caused more serious thermal damage to thyroid tissues than that caused by either the Harmonic scalpel or LigaSure (thermal damaged depth: 0.951 ± 0.061 vs 0.756 ± 0.074, p < .001; 0.951 ± 0.061 vs 0.724 ± 0.116, p < .001). Nevertheless, there were no differences between the Harmonic scalpel and LigaSure groups (p = .435).

Conclusion

LigaSure and the Harmonic scalpel might be safer than electrotome when used in thyroid operations. LigaSure generates less heat than the Harmonic scalpel and electrotome. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: 1078–1085, 2017
Disrupted ER‐to‐Golgi trafficking underlies anti‐HIV drugs and alcohol‐induced cellular stress and hepatic injury
Authors: Han Hui , He Yuxin , Hu Jay , Lau Rhema , Lee Harrison , Ji Cheng
Published: March 2017

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and unfolded protein response (UPR) are involved in anti‐human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) drugs and alcohol‐induced liver disease in a significant number of patients infected with HIV. However, the precise mechanism by which the drugs and alcohol cause ER stress remains elusive. We found that ritonavir‐boosted lopinavir (RL) activated two canonical UPR branches without activation of the third canonical activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6) branch in either HepG2 cells or primary mouse hepatocytes. In the RL‐treated cells, ATF6 localization in the Golgi apparatus required for its activation was reduced; this was followed by Golgi fragmentation and dislocation/redistribution of Golgi‐resident enzymes. Severities of Golgi fragmentation induced by other anti‐HIV drugs varied and were correlated with the ER stress response. In the liver of mice fed RL, alcohol feeding deteriorated the Golgi fragmentation, which was correlated with ER stress, elevated alanine aminotransferase, and liver steatosis. The Golgi stress response (GSR) markers GCP60 and HSP47 were increased in RL‐treated liver cells, and knockdown of transcription factor for immunoglobulin heavy‐chain enhancer 3 of the GSR by small interfering RNA worsened RL‐induced cell death. Cotreatment of pharmacological agent H89 with RL inhibited the RL‐induced Golgi enzyme dislocation and ER stress. Moreover, the coat protein complex II (COPII) complexes that mediate ER‐to‐Golgi trafficking accumulated in the RL‐treated liver cells; this was not due to interference of RL with the initial assembly of the COPII complexes. RL also inhibited Golgi fragmentation and reassembly induced by short treatment and removal of brefeldin A.Conclusion: Our study indicates that ER‐to‐Golgi trafficking is disrupted by anti‐HIV drugs and/or alcohol, and this contributes to subsequent ER stress and hepatic injury. (Hepatology Communications2017;1:122‐139)
Appointing and Remunerating Insolvency Practitioners in Japan: The Roles of Japanese Courts
Authors: Steele Stacey
Published: March 2017

Japanese courts play an important role in appointing and remunerating insolvency practitioners. This article examines the roles of courts on the basis of academic and practitioner literature, judicial decisions and interviews with practitioners and former and current judicial officers. First, the article focuses on the methods used to appoint practitioners and the evolution of the system at the Tokyo District Court, Japan's busiest insolvency jurisdiction. Second, the article examines the courts' roles in reviewing and setting practitioners' remuneration through another case study from the Tokyo District Court. Practices trialled and developed in Tokyo are often adapted for local purposes around Japan. The article argues that the courts' involvement has helped to keep the cost of resolving corporate insolvency in Japan down. The review and setting of remuneration deserves particular attention with the increasing prevalence of pre‐packaged and informal restructuring that prima facie appears to allow for greater freedom to set remuneration as between the practitioner and debtor‐client. The article uses a case study to demonstrate that pre‐packaged restructuring is still influenced by the court, however, arguing that the relationship between the court and practitioners remains important. Finally, the article suggests that changes in Japanese insolvency practice and external factors may require the courts and the profession to revisit approaches to appointing and remunerating practitioners. Copyright © 2017 INSOL International and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Asiaticoside hinders the invasive growth of keloid fibroblasts through inhibition of the GDF‐9/MAPK/Smad pathway
Authors: Wu Xin , Bian Difei , Dou Yannong , Gong Zhunan , Tan Qian , Xia Yufeng , Dai Yue
Published: March 2017

Higher expression of growth differentiation factor‐9 (GDF‐9) in keloids compared with hypertrophic scars and normal skin tissues has been reported recently. The present study was performed to investigate the role of GDF‐9 in keloid pathogenesis, and to elucidate its implication for asiaticoside in the keloid management. The data showed that GDF‐9 could enhance the proliferation, migration, and invasion of keloid fibroblasts (KFs), while it only slightly elevated collagen expression, indicating that the effect of GDF‐9 was opposite to that of TGF‐β1. The bioactivity difference between GDF‐9 and TGF‐β1 could be explained by the different phosphorylated sites on the downstream Smad2/3. Moreover, asiaticoside could inhibit GDF‐9‐induced activation of MAPKs and Smad pathway in KFs. In conclusion, GDF‐9 enhanced the invasive growth of KFs, which was achieved by phosphorylation of Smad 2/3 at the linker region through activation of MAPKs pathway. Asiaticoside hindered the invasive growth of KFs by inhibiting the GDF‐9/MAPK/Smad pathway.
Effect of temperature on lysosomal enzyme activity during preparation and storage of dried blood spots
Authors: Supriya Manjunath , De Tanima , Christopher Rita
Published: March 2017

Background

The use of dried blood spots (DBS) for the assay of lysosomal enzymes has facilitated the implementation of pilot studies for newborn screening for lysosomal storage disorders in various developed countries. The aim of the study was to determine the influence of ambient temperature during DBS preparation and storage on lysosomal enzyme activity in a developing, tropical country.

Methods

Blood samples from 12 healthy subjects collected on a S&S 903 filter paper were dried and stored at different temperatures for different periods of time. Activities of five lysosomal enzymes (acid α‐glucosidase, acid α‐galactosidase, acid β‐glucocerebrosidase, acid sphingomyelinase, and galactocerebrosidase) were determined by tandem mass spectrometric and fluorimetric (acid α‐glucosidase and acid β‐glucocerebrosidase only) assays.

Results

The mean activities of all five enzymes decreased significantly when DBS was dried at temperatures above 24°C (P<.0001). DBS stored at 4°C, 24°C, 30°C, 37°C, and 45°C for 10 days and more, also showed significant reduction in activities of all five enzymes (P<.0001).

Conclusion

The results highlight the importance of maintaining the correct ambient temperature during DBS preparation and storage to avoid false positive results when screening for lysosomal storage disorders.
NLRP3 inflammasome: Its regulation and involvement in atherosclerosis
Authors: Hoseini Zahra , Sepahvand Fatemeh , Rashidi Bahman , Sahebkar Amirhossein , Masoudifar Aria , Mirzaei Hamed
Published: March 2017

Inflammasomes are intracellular complexes involved in the innate immunity that convert proIL‐1β and proIL‐18 to mature forms and initiate pyroptosis via cleaving procaspase‐1. The most well‐known inflammasome is NLRP3. Several studies have indicated a decisive and important role of NLRP3 inflammasome, IL‐1β, IL‐18, and pyroptosis in atherosclerosis. Modern hypotheses introduce atherosclerosis as an inflammatory/lipid‐based disease and NLRP3 inflammasome has been considered as a link between lipid metabolism and inflammation because crystalline cholesterol and oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (oxLDL) (two abundant components in atherosclerotic plaques) activate NLRP3 inflammasome. In addition, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and lysosome rupture, which are implicated in inflammasome activation, have been discussed as important events in atherosclerosis. In spite of these clues, some studies have reported that NLRP3 inflammasome has no significant effect in atherogenesis. Our review reveals that some molecules such as JNK‐1 and ASK‐1 (upstream regulators of inflammasome activation) can reduce atherosclerosis through inducing apoptosis in macrophages. Notably, NLRP3 inflammasome can also cause apoptosis in macrophages, suggesting that NLRP3 inflammasome may mediate JNK‐induced apoptosis, and the apoptotic function of NLRP3 inflammasome may be a reason for the conflicting results reported. The present review shows that the role of NLRP3 in atherogenesis can be significant. Here, the molecular pathways of NLRP3 inflammasome activation and the implications of this activation in atherosclerosis are explained.
Otoprotective effects of mouse nerve growth factor in DBA/2J mice with early‐onset progressive hearing loss
Authors: Wang Qingzhu , Zhao Hongchun , Zheng Tihua , Wang Wenjun , Zhang Xiaolin , Wang Andi , Li Bo , Wang Yanfei , Zheng Qingyin
Published: March 2017

As it displays progressive hair‐cell loss and degeneration of spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) characterized by early‐onset progressive hearing loss (ePHL), DBA/2J is an inbred mouse strain widely used in hearing research. Mouse nerve growth factor (mNGF), as a common exogenous nerve growth factor (NGF), has been studied extensively for its ability to promote neuronal survival and growth. To determine whether mNGF can ameliorate progressive hearing loss (PHL) in DBA/2J mice, saline or mNGF was given to DBA/2J mice of either sex by daily intramuscular injection from the 1st to the 9th week after birth. At 5, 7, and 9 weeks of age, in comparison with vehicle groups, mNGF groups experienced decreased auditory‐evoked brainstem response (ABR) thresholds and increased distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) amplitudes, the prevention of hair cell loss, and the inhibition of apoptosis of SGNs. Downregulation of Bak/Bax and Caspase genes and proteins in cochleae of mice receiving the mNGF treatment was detected by real‐time PCR, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry. This suggests that the Bak‐dependent mitochondrial apoptosis pathway may be involved in the otoprotective mechanism of mNGF in progressive hearing loss of DBA/2J mice. Our results demonstrate that mNGF can act as an otoprotectant in the DBA/2J mice for the early intervention of PHL and, thus, could become of great value in clinical applications. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The effect of microwave on the interaction of flavour compounds with G‐actin from grass carp (Catenopharyngodon idella)
Authors: Lou Xiaowei , Yang Qiuli , Sun Yangying , Pan Daodong , Cao Jinxuan
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

In order to investigate the influence of non‐thermal effects of microwaves on the flavour of fish and meat products, the G‐actin of grass carp in ice baths was exposed to different microwave powers (0, 100, 300 or 500 W); the surface hydrophobicity, sulfhydryl contents, secondary structures and adsorption capacity of G‐actin to ketones were determined.

RESULTS

As microwave power increased from 0 to 300 W, the surface hydrophobicity, total and reactive sulfhydryls increased; α‐helix, β‐sheet and random coil fractions turned into β‐turn fractions. As microwave power increased from 300 to 500 W, however, hydrophobicity and sulfhydryl contents decreased; β‐turn and random coil fractions turned into α‐helix and β‐sheet fractions. The tendencies of adsorbed capacity of ketones were similar to hydrophobicity and sulfhydryl contents.

CONCLUSION

The increased adsorbing of ketones could be attributed to the unfolding of secondary structures by revealing new binding sites, including thiol groups and hydrophobic binding sites. The decreased binding capacity was related to the refolding and aggregation of protein. The results suggested that microwave powers had obvious effects on the flavour retention and proteins structures in muscle foods. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Germline variation in the 3′‐untranslated region of the POU2AF1 gene is associated with susceptibility to lymphoma
Authors: Zhai Kan , Chang Jiang , Hu Jinlong , Wu Chen , Lin Dongxin
Published: March 2017

Genetic variations in certain genes may alter the susceptibility to lymphoma. We searched electronic databases and selected candidate single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) located within 3′‐untranslated regions (3′‐UTRs) that might affect miRNA‐binding ability in the 50 most dysregulated genes in lymphoma for further study. We found that rs1042752—located in the 3′‐UTR of POU2AF1, which plays a vital role in lymphomagenesis—was significantly associated with lymphoma risk in a case‐control study with 793 patients and 939 controls. Compared with individuals with the rs1042752TT genotype, those with the rs1042752CC genotype had a higher risk of lymphoma (OR = 2.14, 95% CI: 1.55‐2.95, P < 0.001), even in stratified analysis for non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (OR = 4.58, 95% CI: 2.38‐8.81, P < 0.001), B‐cell lymphoma (OR = 4.89, 95% CI: 2.46‐9.73, P < 0.001), T‐cell lymphoma (OR = 4.20, 95% CI: 1.76‐10.05, P = 0.001), and Hodgkin lymphoma (OR = 3.62, 95% CI: 1.25‐10.46, P = 0.018). Similar results were also observed in a recessive genetic model. Database findings suggested that rs1042752 might affect the interaction of POU2AF1 mRNA with hsa‐miR‐633. Functional assays confirmed that rs1042752C altered the binding site of hsa‐miR‐633 and increased POU2AF1 expression in Ramos, HuT 102, and Jurkat E6‐1 cell lines. These findings demonstrate for the first time that functional polymorphism in the 3′‐UTR of POU2AF1 is associated with susceptibility, and that SNP interaction with hsa‐miR‐633 affects gene expression and increases the risk of lymphoma.
Efficiency of U.S. hospitals between 2001 and 2011
Authors: Choi Jeong Hoon , Fortsch Sima M. , Park Imsu , Jung Ilyoung
Published: March 2017

This study focuses on finding the trend of efficiency in the healthcare industry in recent years. We applied stochastic frontier analysis and data envelopment analysis methods to capture the efficiency of 1,471 hospitals and found a sign of the Baumol effect, which is detected by the decreasing trend of hospital efficiency with increasing trend of labor costs. Furthermore, we compared the results of both approaches (stochastic frontier and data envelope analyses) in capturing efficiency scores and suggest the U‐shaped curve of the size effect may indicate the practice of “cream skimming” by some small hospitals.
Color duplex ultrasonography versus handheld Doppler to plan anterior lateral thigh flaps
Authors: Lethaus Bernd , Loberg Christina , Kloss‐Brandstätter Anita , Bartella Alexander K. , Steiner Timm , Modabber Ali , Hölzle Frank , Teichmann Jan
Published: March 2017

Background

The anterior lateral thigh flap (ALT) has become increasingly important in reconstructive surgery in the head and neck region. To cope with the problem of anatomical variability in the supplying blood vessels, preoperative evaluation is desirable. Purpose of the study is to compare the most commonly used Doppler devices Handheld Doppler (HD) and Color Doppler Ultrasonography (CDU) for their clinical reliability.

Methods

Forty five consecutive head and neck cancer patients (mean age 66.0 ± 11.2 years) were included in the study. They all underwent a reconstruction via ALT flap for a defect in the head and neck area. Study period ranged from May 2014 to August 2015. We preoperatively conducted HD and CDU on the lateral thigh and compared the intraoperative findings by measuring presence of the perforator and distance to the estimated position.

Results

There were 95 perforators identified in 45 patients. The sensitivity and positive predictive value (PPV) were calculated as 97.9% and 100% for CDU and 90.5% and 80.4% for HD, respectively. Accuracy was significantly greater with the HD compared to the CDU device (P < 0.001) and was strongly associated with body mass index (BMI) (P < 0.001). This effect was stronger in HD than in CDU (r = 0.800; P < 0.001 versus r = 0.673; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our results indicate CDU is more precise and reliable than HD with respect to detecting the anatomical position of perforating arteries. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 37:388–393, 2017.
Peripheral and central fatigue after high intensity resistance circuit training
Authors: Márquez Gonzalo , Romero‐Arenas Salvador , Marín‐Pagán Cristian , Vera‐Ibañez Antonio , FernáNdez Del Olmo Miguel , Taube Wolfgang
Published: March 2017

Introduction

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of high intensity resistance circuit (HIRC) and traditional strength training (TST) on neuromuscular fatigue and metabolic responses.

Methods

Twelve trained young subjects performed HIRC and TST in a counterbalanced order with 1 week rest in‐between. The amount of workload and the inter‐set time for each local muscle group were matched (180 s), however, the time between successive exercises differed. The twitch interpolation technique was used to test neuromuscular function of the knee extensor muscles. Blood lactate concentration was used to evaluate metabolic responses.

Results

Maximum voluntary contraction and resting potentiated twitch amplitude (Qtw) were significantly reduced after HIRC, but there were not changes after TST, while reductions in voluntary activation were similar. Lactate concentration increased significantly more after HIRC.

Conclusions

The higher lactate concentration after HIRC probably impaired excitation‐contraction coupling, indicating larger peripheral fatigue than after TST. Muscle Nerve 56: 152–159, 2017.
Effect of resistance training with vibration and compression on the formation of muscle and bone
Authors: Zinner Christoph , Baessler Bettina , Weiss Kilian , Ruf Jasmine , Michels Guido , Holmberg Hans‐Christer , Sperlich Billy
Published: March 2017

Introduction

In this study we investigated the effects of resistance training with vibration in combination with leg compression to restrict blood flow on strength, muscle oxygenation, muscle mass, and bone formation.

Methods

Twelve participants were tested before and after 12 weeks of resistance training with application of vibration (VIBRA; 1–2 mm, 30 Hz) to both legs and compression (∼35 mm Hg, VIBRA+COMP) to only 1 leg.

Results

VIBRA+COMP and VIBRA improved 1 repetition maximum (1‐RM), increased the number of repetitions preceding muscle exhaustion, enhanced cortical bone mass, and lowered the mass and fat fraction in the thigh, with no changes in total muscle mass. The mass of cancellous bone decreased to a similar extent after VIBRA and VIBRA+COMP.

Discussion

Resistance training with VIBRA+COMP and VIBRA improved 1‐RM, increased the number of repetitions preceding muscular exhaustion, and enhanced formation of cortical bone, with no alteration of muscle mass. Muscle Nerve 56: 1137–1142, 2017
Best practice policy statement on urodynamic antibiotic prophylaxis in the non‐index patient
Authors: Cameron Anne P. , Campeau Lysanne , Brucker Benjamin M. , Clemens J. Quentin , Bales Gregory T. , Albo Michael E. , Kennelly Michael J.
Published: March 2017

Aims

Antibiotic prophylaxis before urodynamic testing (UDS) is widely utilized to prevent urinary tract infection (UTI) with only limited guidance. The Society of Urodynamics, Female Pelvic Medicine, and Urogenital Reconstruction (SUFU) convened a Best Practice Policy Panel to formulate recommendations on the urodynamic antibiotic prophylaxis in the non‐index patient.

Methods

Recommendations are based on a literature review and the Panel's expert opinion, with all recommendations graded using the Oxford grading system.

Results

All patients should be screened for symptoms of UTI and undergo dipstick urinalysis. If the clinician suspects a UTI, the UDS should be postponed until it has been treated. The first choice for prophylaxis is a single oral dose of trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole before UDS, with alternative antibiotics chosen in case of allergy or intolerance. Individuals who do NOT require routine antibiotic prophylaxis include those without known relevant genitourinary anomalies, diabetics, those with prior genitourinary surgery, a history of recurrent UTI, post‐menopausal women, recently hospitalized patients, patients with cardiac valvular disease, nutritional deficiencies or obesity. Identified risk factors that increase the potential for UTI following UDS and for which the panel recommends peri‐procedure antibiotics include: known relevant neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction, elevated PVR, asymptomatic bacteriuria, immunosuppression, age over 70, and patients with any indwelling catheter, external urinary collection device, or performing intermittent catheterization. Patients with orthopedic implants have a separate risk stratification.

Conclusions

These recommendations can assist urodynamic providers in the appropriate use of antibiotics for UDS testing. Clinical judgment of the provider must always be considered.
Comparison of three methods to analyze detrusor contraction during micturition in men over 50 years of age
Authors: Donkelaar S Celine ten , Rosier Peter , de Kort Laetitia
Published: March 2017

Aims

To grade detrusor voiding contraction three parameters are used: the Schäfer pressure‐flow nomogram (LinPURR), the bladder contractility index (BCI) and the maximum Watt factor (Wmax). Because these methods to quantify detrusor contraction and/or to diagnose detrusor underactivity (DU) have not yet been mutually compared, this study compares these three methods of grading detrusor contraction.

Materials and Methods

Evaluated were 1420 urodynamic pressure‐flow studies from 1222 men (aged >50 years) with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Excluded were patients with abnormal urinalysis, neurological disorders, surgical correction of congenital anomalies, pelvic surgery, post radical prostatectomy, or with evidence of urethral stricture. Contractility was graded with the LinPURR, the BCI, and Wmax, making a distinction between “strong,” “normal,” “weak,” and “very weak” contractility. We calculated agreement between LinPURR and both BCI and Wmax.

Results

The contractility groups LinPURR and BCI, as well as LinPURR and Wmax, showed a high agreement of 97.5% and 80.9%, respectively.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates a significant correlation in grading detrusor contractility when comparing LinPURR with the BCI (97.5% agreement) and the Wmax (80.9% agreement). The LinPURR is plausible, and applicable in clinical practice and BCI is (intrinsically) well associating with the LinPURR classes, on a more continuous scale. Both are relevant to define clinically relevant patients groups.
Videourodynamic analysis of the urethral sphincter overactivity and the poor relaxing pelvic floor muscles in women with voiding dysfunction
Authors: Peng Chung‐Hsin , Chen Sheng‐Fu , Kuo Hann‐Chorng
Published: March 2017

Aims

Voiding dysfunction due to dysfunctional voiding (DV) and poor relaxation of the external sphincter (PRES) are commonly found among adult women with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) during videourodynamic study (VUDS). This study analyzed the VUDS characteristics of DV and PRES in female voiding dysfunction.

Methods

This retrospective study involved 1914 women aged >18 years with refractory LUTS. The medical records and the VUDS parameters were reviewed. Patients diagnosed with DV and PRES participated in the study. The VUDS characteristics and urethral sphincter activities were compared with those of urodynamically normal women.

Results

Of the 1914 women, 325 (17.0%) and 336 (17.6%) were diagnosed with DV and PRES, respectively. Detrusor overactivity (DO) occurred in 60% of the women with DV and in 5.7% of the women with PRES. Patients with DV had significantly increased bladder sensation, lower cystometric bladder capacity (CBC), lower bladder compliance, higher voiding detrusor pressure, smaller voided volume (VV), larger post‐void residual volume (PVR), lower voiding efficiency (VE), and higher bladder outlet obstruction index (BOOI) than the women with PRES and the control individuals. Patients with PRES had significantly increased bladder sensation, lower CBC, lower maximum flow rate, smaller VV, larger PVR, and lower VE than the control individuals.

Conclusions

DV and PRES were highly prevalent among the adult women with voiding dysfunction. Patients with DV had VUDS characteristics of BOO and urodynamic DO. The clinical symptoms of PRES were similar to those of DV, but the patients had low detrusor contractility and low DO rates.
Registries in European post‐marketing surveillance: a retrospective analysis of centrally approved products, 2005–2013
Authors: Bouvy Jacoline C. , Blake Kevin , Slattery Jim , De Bruin Marie L. , Arlett Peter , Kurz Xavier
Published: March 2017

Purpose

Regulatory agencies and other stakeholders increasingly rely on data collected through registries to support their decision‐making. Data from registries are a cornerstone of post‐marketing surveillance for monitoring the use of medicines in clinical practice. This study was aimed at gaining further insight into the European Medicines Agency's (EMA) requests for new registries and registry studies using existing registries and to review the experience gained in their conduct.

Methods

European Public Assessment Reports were consulted to identify products for which a request for a registry was made as a condition of the marketing authorisation. All centrally authorised products that received a positive opinion of the EMA Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2013 were included. Data regarding registry design and experiences were collected from EMA electronic record keeping systems.

Results

Of 392 products that received a positive Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use opinion during 2005–2013, 31 registries were requested for 30 products in total. Sixty‐five percent were product registries whereas 35% were disease registries and 71% of the registries had a primary safety objective. Most commonly reported issues with registries were delayed time to start and low patient accrual rates.

Conclusions

The delays found in getting new registries up and running support the need to improve the timeliness of data collection in the post‐marketing setting. Methodological challenges met in conducting this study highlighted the need for a clarification of definitions and epidemiological concepts around patient registries. The results will inform the EMA Patient Registry initiative to support use of existing patient registries for the post‐authorisation benefit–risk monitoring of medicinal products. © 2017 Commonwealth of Australia. Pharmacoepidemiology & Drug Safety © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pain, depressive symptoms and medication in German patients with rheumatoid arthritis—results from the linking patient‐reported outcomes with claims data for health services research in rheumatology (PROCLAIR) study
Authors: Jobski Kathrin , Luque Ramos Andres , Albrecht Katinka , Hoffmann Falk
Published: March 2017

Purpose

Pain and depressive symptoms are common in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Information on the prevalence and treatment of both conditions in German RA patients is scarce.

Methods

Using data from a nationwide statutory health insurance fund (BARMER GEK), 6193 RA patients aged 18 to 79 years were provided with a questionnaire covering a variety of items such as demographics, medical condition and quality of life in 2015. Pain caused by the joint disorder (11‐point scale) was classified as none existent/mild, moderate or severe. Depressive symptoms were determined using the World Health Organization's five‐item Well‐being Index and categorized as none existent, mild or moderate/severe. Another item covered additional use of over‐the‐counter drugs. Data were linked to dispensation records.

Results

A total of 3140 RA patients were included. Median age was 66 years (79% female). About 70% of patients were classified as having moderate or severe pain. Depressive symptoms were found in 52% and were far more common among patients with higher pain levels. Analgesic treatment ranged from 45% to 76% (non‐opioid analgesics) and from 6% to 33% (opioids) in patients with no/mild pain and those reporting severe pain, respectively. In patients reporting moderate or severe pain, substantially higher prevalences of opioid use were observed among those with depressive symptoms. Depending on depressive symptoms, antidepressant use ranged from 7% to 37%. Overall, over‐the‐counter drug use varied between 30% and 59%.

Conclusions

Pain and depressive symptoms are highly prevalent in German RA patients, often present together and influence each other's treatment. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Resin pressure evolution during autoclave curing of epoxy matrix composites
Authors: Lionetto Francesca , Buccoliero Giuseppe , Pappadà Silvio , Maffezzoli Alfonso
Published: March 2017

During autoclave processing of composites for high‐performance applications, it is mandatory to limit the porosities, which mainly depend on the hydrostatic pressure in the resin. This pressure, which is not constant during heating being affected either by resin flow either by elastic stress in the fiber stack, can be significantly different from the autoclave pressure. Modeling of resin flow and stress in the fiber stack is a key issue for prediction of the resin hydrostatic pressure, which can be related to void development. Also, the viscosity of the thermosetting matrix is a relevant parameter since it is not constant but evolves during curing going through a minimum and then increasing to an infinite value at gel point. In this work, a viscoelastic model is adopted to calculate the evolution of resin pressure during an autoclave cycle up to gelation, accounting for viscosity and degree of reaction changes. Therefore, the model includes a kinetic and rheological model whose input parameters have been experimentally determined by Differential Scanning Calorimetry and rheological analysis. The predicted resin pressure for three case studies associated to different composite and bleeder thicknesses and reinforcement materials have been discussed. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 57:631–637, 2017. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Mesoporous Silica Promoted Deposition of Bioinspired Polydopamine onto Contrast Agent: A Universal Strategy to Achieve Both Biocompatibility and Multiple Scale Molecular Imaging
Authors: Chen Yu‐Wei , Peng Yung‐Kang , Chou Shang‐Wei , Tseng Yu‐Jui , Wu Pei‐Chun , Wang Shin‐Kung , Lee Yi‐Wei , Shyue Jing‐Jong , Hsiao Jong‐Kai , Liu Tzu‐Ming , Chou Pi‐Tai
Published: March 2017

Polydopamine (PDA) preserves universal coating and metal‐binding ability, and is suitable for application in synthesizing multifunctional agents. Herein, utilizing mesoporous silica assisted deposition to enhance both heterogeneous nucleation and loading amounts of PDA, the magnetic resonance (MR) T1 component (PDA‐Fe3+) and MR T2/computed tomography (CT)/multiphoton luminescence (MPL) component (FePt) have been successfully integrated in aqueous solution. This four‐in‐one (T1, T2, CT, MPL) imaging nanocomposite, FePt@mSiO2 @PDA‐polyethylene glycol (PEG), demonstrated its multi‐imaging power both in vitro/in vivo. According to our in vitro/in vivo results, FePt@mSiO2@PDA‐PEG reveals water‐content‐dependent property in T1 MR imaging, which suggests the necessity of having dual‐modal MR ability in a single particle for the precision diagnosis. Most importantly, this dual (T1,T2)‐MRI/CT contrast agent is demonstrated complementary to each other in the in vivo testing. PDA coated mesoporous silica also offers an advantage of delayed degradation that prevents adverse effects caused by silica fragments before excretion. The potential of this nanocomposites in both drug carrier and photothermal agent was further evaluated by using doxorubicin and monitoring solution temperature after irradiating 808 nm continuous‐wave, respectively The merits of controlled polymerization, enhanced PDA loading, and biofavorable degradation make this methodology promising to other nanoparticle@mSiO2 for a wide range of bioapplications.
NMR solution structure of the RED subdomain of the Sleeping Beauty transposase
Authors: Konnova Tatiana A. , Singer Christopher M. , Nesmelova Irina V.
Published: March 2017

DNA transposons can be employed for stable gene transfer in vertebrates. The Sleeping Beauty (SB) DNA transposon has been recently adapted for human application and is being evaluated in clinical trials, however its molecular mechanism is not clear. SB transposition is catalyzed by the transposase enzyme, which is a multi‐domain protein containing the catalytic and the DNA‐binding domains. The DNA‐binding domain of the SB transposase contains two structurally independent subdomains, PAI and RED. Recently, the structures of the catalytic domain and the PAI subdomain have been determined, however no structural information on the RED subdomain and its interactions with DNA has been available. Here, we used NMR spectroscopy to determine the solution structure of the RED subdomain and characterize its interactions with the transposon DNA.
Next generation immunology: the quest for a universal vaccine
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: March 2017

Until recently, vaccine development involved isolating, inactivating and injecting the pathogen or part of the micro‐organism. However, newer approaches such as reverse vaccinology are facilitating the synthesis of novel vaccine antigens, and may offer hope for a ‘universal vaccine’ in the future.
Current management of pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Ricketts Clare , Church Colin
Published: March 2017

The management of pulmonary arterial hypertension has been transformed by the introduction of disease‐targeted therapies. This article examines the diagnosis of pulmonary arterial hypertension, the efficacy of current treatments, and the role of the GP in management.
The treatment of URTIs and otitis media in children
Authors: Chappell Faye
Published: March 2017

Despite the majority of infections being viral and self‐limiting, children are still frequently prescribed antibiotics for upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) and acute otitis media. This article discusses how to assess whether an antibiotic is appropriate and when referral to secondary care may be necessary.
Temperature dependence of intrinsic and extrinsic dielectric contributions in 0.27Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3–0.46Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–0.27PbTiO3 single crystals
Authors: Yang Liya , Zheng Limei , Jing Yujia , Li Shiyang , Lu Xiaoyan , Lü Weiming , Zhang Rui
Published: March 2017

The temperature dependence of extrinsic and intrinsic dielectric contributions was quantitatively evaluated by Rayleigh analysis in [001]C‐oriented rhombohedral 0.27Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3–0.46Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–0.27PbTiO3 (PIN–PMN–0.27PT) single crystal. It is shown that both contributions increase with temperature and reach maximum values at around the rhombohedral–tetragonal phase‐transition temperature TR–T. However, the enhancement of the extrinsic part is more significant than the intrinsic one. The percentage of extrinsic contribution regarding the total dielectric response increases from 1% at room temperature to 34% at around TR–T. In addition, the influence of the polymorphic phase transition on intrinsic and extrinsic contributions is discussed. This work enables us to further understand the thermal stability of electrical properties and the influence of polymorphic phase transition in ferroelectrics.
Land–ocean differences in the warm‐rain formation process in satellite and ground‐based observations and model simulations
Authors: Takahashi Hanii , Suzuki Kentaroh , Stephens Graeme
Published: March 2017

A previous study explored land–ocean differences in the warm‐rain formation process. In that study, aerosol effects were removed, or at least partially removed, but some land–ocean differences remained. Therefore, the study hypothesized that the land–ocean difference in the microphysical structure of warm clouds and in the formation of warm rain can be explained by differences in the nature of updraughts. To test this hypothesis, this study provides a detailed analysis of the land–ocean differences in warm clouds using a combination of CloudSat and MODerate‐resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) observations, ground‐based measurements obtained from Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM), as well as a simple model framework. Our results show that a stronger updraught increases the height at which significant coalescence begins, and also prolongs the lifetime of falling drops promoting larger droplet growth. A consequence of this difference is that drizzle is less frequently observed at cloud base over land. Our results point to the critical role of the strength of the convective updraught in the warm‐rain formation process.
The vertical component of the geostrophic wind
Authors: Egger Joseph , Hoinka Klaus‐Peter
Published: March 2017

Motion in planetary geostrophic equations (PGEs) is represented by the three‐dimensional geostrophic wind (ug, vg, wg) where ug and vg are the standard horizontal components while the vertical component wg can be derived, for example, from the Richardson equation. However, this vertical component appears not to have been evaluated as yet on the basis of data nor compared to the actual vertical component w. Part of this missing information is provided here by an evaluation of wg from observations and by analyzing the role of wg in linear versions of PGEs. The time mean fields in the Northern Hemisphere as well as the standard deviations are compared to the correponding fields of w. It is found that comes reasonably close to in the troposphere but deviates widely in the stratosphere while is smaller than σw in the troposphere but not in the stratosphere. Linear wave motion is discussed and the linear steady‐state response to the forcing by heat sources and mountains is explored to explain these results.
OLR perspective on the Indian Ocean Dipole with application to East African precipitation
Authors: Shaaban Ahmed A. , Roundy Paul E.
Published: March 2017

Interannual variability of precipitation over eastern Africa (Somalia, Ethiopia, and Kenya) is impacted by the Indian Ocean dipole (IOD), which has its maximum amplitude during autumn. During northern spring, sea‐surface temperature (SST) in the tropical Indian Ocean is nearly always sufficiently high to sustain convection, but it exhibits no clear pattern of variability. Thus, precipitation variability over Eastern Africa during spring is not connected to any Indian Ocean interannual mode sustained by SST anomalies. Yet, seasonal variability in atmospheric convection might sustain interannual modes during spring independent of SST. We construct an index for the IOD based on outgoing long‐wave radiation anomaly (OLRA) instead of SST anomaly. During northern spring, analysis of this index shows that interannual precipitation over Eastern Africa is correlated with interannual variability similar to the IOD, as measured by OLR. The largest part of that relationship originates from the western Indian Ocean, with smaller contributions from the eastern Indian Ocean. Results indicate that atmospheric convection over the tropical Indian Ocean couples the atmospheric circulation over the eastern and western Indian basin irrespective of SST anomalies. Results from constructed analogue analysis show that positive SST anomaly during northern winter caused by persistence of subsidence and cloud–radiation–SST negative feedback over the southeastern Indian Ocean from the previous positive IOD is associated with formation of negative IOD later during the following autumn.
Human male infertility and its genetic causes
Authors: Miyamoto Toshinobu , Minase Gaku , Shin Takeshi , Ueda Hiroto , Okada Hiroshi , Sengoku Kazuo
Published: March 2017

Background

Infertility affects about 15% of couples who wish to have children and half of these cases are associated with male factors. Genetic causes of azoospermia include chromosomal abnormalities, Y chromosome microdeletions, and specific mutations/deletions of several Y chromosome genes. Many researchers have analyzed genes in the AZF region on the Y chromosome; however, in 2003 the SYCP3 gene on chromosome 12 (12q23) was identified as causing azoospermia by meiotic arrest through a point mutation.

Methods

We mainly describe the SYCP3 and PLK4 genes that we have studied in our laboratory, and add comments on other genes associated with human male infertility.

Results

Up to now, The 17 genes causing male infertility by their mutation have been reported in human.

Conclusions

Infertility caused by nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) is very important in the field of assisted reproductive technology. Even with the aid of chromosomal analysis, ultrasonography of the testis, and detailed endocrinology, only MD‐TESE can confirm the presence of immature spermatozoa in the testes. We strongly hope that these studies help clinics avoid ineffective MD‐TESE procedures.