bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bendamustine and rituximab in combination with lenalidomide in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Maurer Christian , Pflug Natali , Bahlo Jasmin , Kluth Sandra , Rhein Christina , Cramer Paula , Gross‐Ophoff Carolin , Langerbeins Petra , Fink Anna‐Maria , Eichhorst Barbara , Kreuzer Karl‐Anton , Fischer Norbert , Tausch Eugen , Stilgenbauer Stephan , Böttcher Sebastian , Döhner Hartmut , Kneba Michael , Dreyling Martin , Binder Mascha , Hallek Michael , Wendtner Clemens‐Martin , Bergmann Manuela , Fischer Kirsten ,   the German CLL Study Group
Published: December 2015

Purpose

A phase I/II trial to assess safety and efficacy of the combination bendamustine, rituximab, and lenalidomide (BRL) in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).

Patients and Methods

Seventeen relapsed or refractory (R/R) and five previously untreated (FL) CLL patients were enrolled in the trial. In the R/R cohort, four different dose levels of lenalidomide (maximum 15 mg/d) were used. In the FL cohort, lenalidomide was dose escalated from 5 mg/d to 15 mg/d. Bendamustine was used at doses of 50 or 90 mg/m2 for R/R or FL treatment, respectively. 375 mg/m2 Rituximab were used for the first and 500 mg/m2 for subsequent treatment courses. Treatment consisted of up to six courses of 28 d.

Results

The maximal tolerable dose of lenalidomide was 5 mg/d. The response rate was 47.1% in R/R and 60% in FL patients. Median progression‐free survival was 8.0 months. Median overall survival was 22.9 and 12.3 months, respectively, in R/R and FL patients. Grade 3/4 hematological toxicity was observed in 71.4%, and severe infections in 47.6% of patients. Due to high toxicity and low response rate of BRL, the trial was closed prematurely.

Conclusion

BRL was associated with a high toxicity rate, a high number of treatment interruptions, and a low remission rate. Therefore, BRL cannot be considered an appropriate treatment option for patients with CLL.
Utilizing an integrated infrastructure for outcomes research: a systematic review
Authors: Dixon Brian E. , Whipple Elizabeth C. , Lajiness John M. , Murray Michael D.
Published: December 2015

Objective

To explore the ability of an integrated health information infrastructure to support outcomes research.

Methods

A systematic review of articles published from 1983 to 2012 by Regenstrief Institute investigators using data from an integrated electronic health record infrastructure involving multiple provider organisations was performed. Articles were independently assessed and classified by study design, disease and other metadata including bibliometrics.

Results

A total of 190 articles were identified. Diseases included cognitive, (16) cardiovascular, (16) infectious, (15) chronic illness (14) and cancer (12). Publications grew steadily (26 in the first decade vs. 100 in the last) as did the number of investigators (from 15 in 1983 to 62 in 2012). The proportion of articles involving non‐Regenstrief authors also expanded from 54% in the first decade to 72% in the last decade. During this period, the infrastructure grew from a single health system into a health information exchange network covering more than 6 million patients. Analysis of journal and article metrics reveals high impact for clinical trials and comparative effectiveness research studies that utilised data available in the integrated infrastructure.

Discussion

Integrated information infrastructures support growth in high quality observational studies and diverse collaboration consistent with the goals for the learning health system. More recent publications demonstrate growing external collaborations facilitated by greater access to the infrastructure and improved opportunities to study broader disease and health outcomes.

Conclusions

Integrated information infrastructures can stimulate learning from electronic data captured during routine clinical care but require time and collaboration to reach full potential.
Special AT‐rich sequence‐binding protein 2 (SATB2) expression is sensitive but may not be specific for osteosarcoma as compared with other high‐grade primary bone sarcomas
Authors: Davis Jessica L , Horvai Andrew E
Published: December 2015

Aims

The diagnosis of osteosarcoma, although important for eligibility in clinical trials and proper therapy, may be challenging when no bone or osteoid matrix is identified on biopsy. Therefore, other adjunct tests have been sought to help confirm the diagnosis. Special AT‐rich sequence‐binding protein 2 (SATB2) has been shown as a reliable marker of osteoblastic differentiation. The aim of this study was to examine SATB2 expression in osteosarcomas and other primary bone sarcomas, in order to evaluate its diagnostic utility in discriminating osteogenic from non‐osteogenic sarcomas.

Methods and results

Forty‐eight pretreated osteosarcoma biopsies, including 26 whole‐section cases and 22 tumours on tissue microarrays, and 36 non‐osteogenic bone sarcomas were evaluated. Forty‐five of 48 (94%) osteosarcomas showed nuclear immunoreactivity for SATB2 (all whole‐slide sections showed expression). Positive SATB2 expression was observed in 11 of 22 (50%) undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcomas (UPSs), and in five of 11 (45%) fibrosarcomas; expression was absent in two pleomorphic rhabdomyosarcomas and in the one leiomyosarcoma. The sensitivity of SATB2 for osteosarcoma was 94%, and the specificity was 55%. Stronger‐intensity staining was observed in osteosarcoma (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

SATB2 is a sensitive marker for osteosarcoma; however, it is not specific, with expression being observed in other high‐grade primary bone sarcomas. Intriguingly, the lack of specificity may suggest that the undifferentiated sarcomas (UPSs and fibrosarcomas) with SATB2 expression actually represent osteosarcomas that produce too little matrix to be detected with routine sampling or consist of osteoblast precursors that do not synthesize matrix.
Evaluation of the anti‐wrinkle effect of an ascorbic acid‐loaded dissolving microneedle patch via a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical study
Authors: Lee C. , Yang H. , Kim S. , Kim M. , Kang H. , Kim N. , An S. , Koh J. , Jung H.
Published: December 2015

Objective

Although an ascorbic acid‐loaded dissolving microneedle patch has been developed to improve anti‐wrinkle effects, an efficacy evaluation with a control group has not yet been performed. In this study, the anti‐wrinkle effect of an ascorbic acid‐loaded dissolving microneedle patch was evaluated in a double‐blind clinical study with a control group. In addition, a cumulative skin irritation and sensitization potential of the ascorbic acid‐loaded dissolving microneedle patch was performed.

Methods

Twenty‐three subjects were selected for anti‐wrinkle effect evaluation in a double‐blind clinical study. Subjects were divided into two groups. Group I subjects applied an ascorbic acid‐loaded dissolving microneedle patch on a crow's feet area on the left side of the face and a control sample on a crow's feet area on the right side of the face every 4 days. Group II subjects placed the same patches on opposite sides of the face. Global Photodamage Score and skin replica analysis were conducted by visual inspection and skin visiometer, respectively. A skin irritation and sensitization assessment was performed on 51 subjects using the modified Shelanski & Shelanski procedure. Cumulative skin irritation potential and skin sensitization of the ascorbic acid‐loaded dissolving microneedle patch and control sample were evaluated.

Results

Skin treated with the ascorbic acid‐loaded dissolving microneedle patch showed a statistically significant improvement in both the Global Photodamage Score and visiometer R values (P < 0.05) compared with the control sample. The R2 value (maximum roughness), in particular, showed a highly significant improvement (P < 0.01). The skin irritation and sensitization assessment demonstrated that the ascorbic acid‐loaded dissolving microneedle patch did not induce any cumulative skin irritation potential or skin sensitization.

Conclusions

An ascorbic acid‐loaded dissolving microneedle patch produced a significant anti‐wrinkle effect without skin irritation and sensitization problems. This cosmetic dissolving microneedle patch can be used efficiently in the anti‐wrinkle cosmetic field with patient convenience.
In vitro assessment of a collagen/alginate composite scaffold for regenerative endodontics
Authors: Devillard R. , Rémy M. , Kalisky J. , Bourget J.‐M. , Kérourédan O. , Siadous R. , Bareille R. , Amédée‐Vilamitjana J. , Chassande O. , Fricain J.‐C.
Published: December 2015

Aim

To develop a biological scaffold that could be moulded to reproduce the geometry of a gutta‐percha point with precision and allow the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into osteoblasts to be used as a regenerative endodontic material.

Methodology

A collagen/alginate composite scaffold was cast into a sodium alginate mould to produce a gutta‐percha point‐like cone. Prior to gelation, the cone was seeded with human stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAPs) to evaluate cell/scaffold interactions. The reconstructed tissue was characterized after 8 days in culture. Elastic modulus, tissue compaction and cell differentiation were assessed. Student t‐tests and the Mann–Whitney U test were performed.

Results

The fabrication method developed enabled the shape of a gutta‐percha point to be mimicked with great accuracy and reproducibility (P = 0.31). Stem cells seeded into this composite scaffold were able to spread, survive and proliferate (P < 0.001). Moreover, they were able to differentiate into osteoblasts and produce calcified osseous extracellular matrix (P < 0.001). The construct showed no significant contraction after 8 days, preserving its shape and tip diameter (P = 0.58).

Conclusions

The composite scaffold could present substantial benefits compared to synthetic materials. It could provide a favourable healing environment in the root canal conducive for regenerative endodontics and is therefore appropriate to be evaluated in vivo in further studies.
Behaviour of human dental pulp cells cultured in a collagen hydrogel scaffold cross‐linked with cinnamaldehyde
Authors: Kwon Y. S. , Lee S. H. , Hwang Y. C. , Rosa V. , Lee K. W. , Min K. S.
Published: December 2015

Aim

To investigate the effects of the cross‐linking agent cinnamaldehyde (CA) on differentiation of human dental pulp cells (hDPCs) cultured in a collagen hydrogel, which may be useful as a scaffold for regenerative endodontic therapy.

Methodology

The odontogenic potential of hDPCs exposed to CA was examined using alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, Alizarin red S staining and real‐time polymerase chain reaction for odontogenic gene expression. The morphological features of hDPCs cultured in CA‐treated collagen were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy. Determination of cell numbers for evaluating proliferation was assessed by optical and fluorescence microscopy. To assess the mechanical properties of collagen treated with CA, setting time, compressive strength and surface roughness were measured. Statistical analysis was performed using Student's t‐test compared with control (P = 0.05).

Results

CA per se did not increase ALP activity, calcium nodule formation and expression of odontogenic‐related markers (P > 0.05). On the contrary, the proliferation and odontogenic differentiation of hDPCs cultured in a collagen scaffold was promoted in the presence of CA (P < 0.05). The setting time was significantly shortened, and the compressive strength and surface roughness were increased by treatment with CA (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Cross‐linking of collagen scaffolds by CA had beneficial effects with respect to attachment, proliferation and differentiation of hDPCs. Consequently, the application of cross‐linking agents such as CA may represent a new strategy for dentine–pulp complex regeneration.
Securitization of migration and the far right: the case of Greek security professionals
Authors: Lazaridis Gabriella , Skleparis Dimitris
Published: December 2015

Since the events of 9/11, security concerns have gained unprecedented dominance on western governments' national and international political agendas; Greece has been no exception. The success or failure of a far right party, like Golden Dawn, depends on the effectiveness of the government to regulate immigration and to develop policies aimed at combating the racism which pervades the political culture of society at this particular juncture, when the country is experiencing severe crisis. The aim is to provide an account of the rationale of the securitization of migration from the perspective of Greek security professionals. We argue that the extreme securitizing perceptions of security professionals have been exploited and assisted by far‐right extremist groups, which instilled racial violence, hate speech/crime into society, resulting in patterned, unreflective, and routinized security practices and discourses which are more in line with the beliefs and values advocated by the extreme right.
Changes in blood monocyte Toll‐like receptor and serum surfactant protein A reveal a pathophysiological mechanism for community‐acquired pneumonia in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Que Y. , Shen X.
Published: December 2015

Background

The lung is one of the target organs of microangiopathy in diabetes mellitus (DM); patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are vulnerable to pneumonia, and a variety of pathophysiological mechanisms has been described.

Aim

This study aimed to determine the pathophysiological mechanism of community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) in T2DM patients.

Methods

A total of 90 individuals was included in this study comprised of three groups (n = 30): healthy control, T2DM and T2DM+ CAP groups. Toll‐like receptor (TLR)2 and 4 protein and messenger RNA expression in peripheral blood monocytes(PBMC) was assessed by western blot and reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction, respectively, and surfactant protein A (SP‐A) levels were examined in serum samples by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

In T2DM and T2DM+CAP groups, levels of both TLR2/4 protein and mRNA in PBMC were decreased compared with controls (P <0.05), with lower levels observed in the T2DM+CAP group in comparison with T2DM patients (P <0.05). The serum SP‐A levels in T2DM+CAP individuals were significantly higher than the values obtained for T2DM patients (P <0.05). It also showed apparent increases when compared with that in controls although no statistical significance was detected.

Conclusion

In T2DM patients with pneumonia, TLR2/4 levels in PBMC and serum SP‐A were altered, maybe playing an important role in the susceptibility to pneumonia in T2DM patients.
The Political Effects of Immigrant Naturalization
Authors: Street Alex
Published: December 2015

Immigration is transforming the societies of Europe and North America. Yet the political implications of these changes remain unclear. In particular, we lack credible evidence on whether, and how, becoming a citizen of the country of residence prompts immigrants to engage with the political system. This paper used panel data from Germany to test theories of citizenship and immigrant politics. I found that naturalization can promote political integration, but that this is more likely if new citizens have the chance to pick up habits of political engagement during the formative years of early adulthood.
Electromagnetic Contact‐Force Sensing Electrophysiological Catheters: How Accurate Is the Technology?
Authors: BOURIER FELIX , HESSLING GABRIELE , AMMAR‐BUSCH SONIA , KOTTMAIER MARC , BUIATTI ALESSANDRA , GREBMER CHRISTIAN , TELISHEVSKA MARTA , SEMMLER VERENA , LENNERZ CARSTEN , SCHNEIDER CHRISTINE , KOLB CHRISTOF , DEISENHOFER ISABEL , REENTS TILKO
Published: December 2015

Accuracy of Contact‐Force Sensing

Background

Contact‐force (CF) sensing catheters are increasingly used in clinical electrophysiological practice due to their efficacy and safety profile. As data about the accuracy of this technology are scarce, we sought to quantify accuracy based on in vitro experiments.

Methods and Results

A custom‐made force sensor was constructed that allowed exact force reference measurements registered via a flexible membrane. A Smarttouch Surround Flow (ST SF) ablation catheter (Biosense Webster, Diamond Bar, CA, USA) was brought in contact with the membrane of the force sensor in order to compare the ST SF force measurements to force sensor reference measurements. ST SF force sensing technology is based on deflection registration between the distal and proximal catheter tip. The experiment was repeated for n = 10 ST SF catheters, which showed no significant difference in accuracy levels. A series of measurements (n = 1200) was carried out for different angles of force acting to the catheter tip (0°/perpendicular contact, 30°, 60°, 90°/parallel contact). The mean absolute differences between reference and ST SF measurements were 1.7 ± 1.8 g (0°), 1.6 ± 1.2 g (30°), 1.4 ± 1.3 g (60°), and 6.6 ± 5.9 g (90°). Measurement accuracy was significantly higher in non‐parallel contact when compared with parallel contact (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Catheter force measurements using the ST SF catheters show a high level of accuracy regarding differences to reference measurements and reproducibility. The reduced accuracy in measurements of 90° acting forces (parallel contact) might be clinically important when creating, for example, linear lesions.
Tissue‐specific variation in nonsense mutant transcript level and drug‐induced read‐through efficiency in the Cln1R151X mouse model of INCL
Authors: Thada Vaughn , Miller Jake N. , Kovács Attila D. , Pearce David A.
Published: December 2015

About 10% of inherited diseases are caused by nonsense mutations [Trends Mol Med 18 (2012) 688], and nonsense suppression drug therapy promoting translation through premature stop codons is an emerging therapeutic approach. Infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (INCL), a childhood neurodegenerative disease, results from mutations in the CLN1 gene encoding the lysosomal enzyme, palmitoyl‐protein thioesterase 1 (PPT1) [Biochim Biophys Acta 1832 (2013) 1806, Hum Mutat (2012) 63, Biochim Biophys Acta 1832 (2013) 1881]. The nonsense mutation p.R151X is the most common disease‐causing CLN1 mutation Hum Mutat (2012) 63. In the novel Cln1R151X mouse model of INCL, we found large, tissue‐specific variations in Cln1R151X mRNA level and PPT1 residual enzyme activity. These tissue‐specific differences strongly influenced the read‐through efficiency of ataluren (PTC124), a well‐known nonsense suppression drug. A two‐day treatment with ataluren (10 mg/kg) increased PPT1 enzyme activity in the liver and muscle, but not in any other tissue examined. Our study identifies a new challenge/hurdle for read‐through drug therapy: variable efficiency of read‐through therapy in the different tissues/organs because of tissue‐specific variations in nonsense mutant transcript levels.
Efficacy of pyrethroid and neonicotinoid insecticides for Melanotus communis (Gyll.) (Coleoptera: Elateridae) control in Florida sugarcane (Saccharum spp.)
Authors: Larsen N. A. , Nuessly G. S. , Cherry R. H.
Published: December 2015

Wireworms are important pests in newly planted sugarcane fields in Florida. Current management involves an integrated programme of cultural and chemical controls. Current chemical controls used are the organophosphates phorate and ethoprop. As federal regulations tighten the uses of organophosphates, effective chemicals from alternative classes of chemistry need to be found. The organophosphates were the only insecticides that effectively protected the emerging shoots from damage in our study. Phorate consistently reduced the number of wireworms. While the pyrethroids and neonicotinoids were able to protect the seed piece and non‐sprouted buds, they did not consistently protect shoots and tillers. Neither pyrethroids nor neonicotinoids caused wireworm mortality in excess of that which occurred naturally.
Differential expression of two C‐type lectins in grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella and their response to grass carp reovirus
Authors: Ju C. S. , He L. B. , Pei Y. Y. , Jiang Y. , Huang R. , Li Y. M. , Liao L. J. , Jang S. H. , Wang Y. P.
Published: December 2015

The cDNAs of two C‐type lectins in grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella, galactose‐binding lectin (galbl) and mannose‐binding lectin (mbl), were cloned and analysed in this study. Both of them exhibited the highest expression level in liver, whereas their expression pattern differed in early phase of embryonic development. Following exposure to grass carp reovirus (GCRV), the mRNA expression level of galbl and mbl was significantly up‐regulated in liver and intestine.
A thicker chorion gives ova of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) the upper hand against Saprolegnia infections
Authors: Songe M M , Willems A , Sarowar M N , Rajan K , Evensen Ø , Drynan K , Skaar I , van West P
Published: December 2015

Since the ban of malachite green in the fish farming industry, finding alternative ways of controlling Saprolegnia infections has become of utmost importance. Much effort has been made to elucidate the mechanisms by which Saprolegnia invades fish eggs. Little is known about the defence mechanisms of the hosts, making some eggs more prone to infection than others. One clue might lie in the composition of the eggs. As the immune system in the embryos is not developed yet, the difference in infection levels could be explained by factors influenced by the mother herself, by either transferring passive immunity, influencing the physical aspects of the eggs or both. One of the physical aspects that could be influenced by the female is the chorion, the extracellular coat surrounding the fish egg, which is in fact the first major barrier to be overcome by Saprolegnia spp. Our results suggest that a thicker chorion in eggs from Atlantic salmon gives a better protection against Saprolegnia spp. In addition to the identification of differences in sensitivity of eggs in a fish farm set‐up, we were able to confirm these results in a laboratory‐controlled challenge experiment.
Synergistic anti‐pancreatic cancer immunological effects by treatment with reduced expression in immortalized cells/dickkopf‐3 protein and peripheral blood mononuclear cells
Authors: Uchida Daisuke , Shiraha Hidenori , Kato Hironari , Sawahara Hiroaki , Nagahara Teruya , Iwamuro Masaya , Kataoka Junro , Horiguchi Shigeru , Watanabe Masami , Takaki Akinobu , Nouso Kazuhiro , Nasu Yasutomo , Kumon Hiromi , Yamamoto Kazuhide
Published: December 2015

Background and Aim

Reduced expression in immortalized cells/dickkopf‐3 (REIC/DKK3) is a reported tumor suppressor gene and has potential to become an innovative therapy for various cancers. We examined the antitumor immunological effects of human REIC/DKK3 protein against pancreatic cancer.

Methods

Activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinases 1 and 2, mammalian target of rapamycin, and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 by REIC/DKK3 protein was assessed in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells using immunoblotting. Pancreatic cancer cell lines (AsPC‐1 and MIA Paca‐2) were cocultured with peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and the anticancer effects of REIC/DKK3 protein were assessed using the methyl thiazole tetrazolium, cytotoxicity, and enzyme‐linked immunospot assays. The antitumor immunological effects of the combined treatment with REIC/DKK3 protein and peripheral blood mononuclear cells were also assessed in a pancreatic cancer model using non‐obese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficiency mice.

Results

The REIC/DKK3 protein activated extracellular signal‐regulated kinases 1 and 2, mammalian target of rapamycin, and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. REIC/DKK3 protein inhibited in vitro cancer cell viability and enhanced cytotoxicity when incubated with peripheral blood mononuclear cells. REIC/DKK3 protein induced significant production of interferon gamma from lymphocytes incubated with pancreatic cancer cells, indicating that CD8+ T cells were activated in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells when cocultured with AsPC‐1 and MIA Paca‐2 in the presence of REIC/DKK3 protein. Combined treatment with REIC/DKK3 protein and peripheral blood mononuclear cells produced in vivo anticancer immunostimulatory effects on pancreatic cancer cells.

Conclusions

The REIC/DKK3 protein and peripheral blood mononuclear cells synergistically enhanced anticancer immunological effects against pancreatic cancer cells. The observed immunomodulatory effect of combined treatment likely occurs in adenovirus‐mediated REIC/DKK3 gene therapy and provides important clues to the therapeutic mechanisms involving immune cells.
Safety and efficacy of intraoperative iodine‐125 seed implantation brachytherapy for rectal cancer patients: A retrospective clinical research
Authors: Luo Ya‐Jun , Liu Zi‐Lin , Ye Peng‐Cheng , Fu Zhi‐Ming , Lu Fei , Suleiman Abdihakin Ali , Liao Juan , Xiao Jiang‐Wei
Published: December 2015

Background:

This pilot study was performed to evaluate the risk of anastomotic leakage (AL) and pelvic autonomic nerve dysfunction, and the effects of 125I brachytherapy after intraoperative permanent implantation of iodine‐125 seeds within the patients with rectal carcinoma.

Methods:

In a cohort consisting of 80 rectal cancer patients who received potentially curative resection of rectal carcinoma with implantation of 125I brachytherapy or radical resection of rectal carcinoma underwent total mesorectal excision. The incidences of AL, fecal incontinence, urinary dysfunction, and sexual dysfunction were calculated for comparison, and risk factors for these complications were analyzed by logistic regression. Rates of tumor recurrence and overall survival were evaluated.

Results:

Six out of 17 (35.29%) patients in the 125I implant group and 1 out of 34 (2.94%) patients in the non‐implant group were complicated with AL (P = 0.006). The incidences of urinary dysfunction (P = 0.005) and fecal incontinence (P = 0.023) were significantly different between the two groups. Multivariate analyses revealed that 125I brachytherapy was an independent risk factor for AL (odds ratio, 18.702; 95%CI, 1.802–194.062; P = 0.014) and urinary dysfunction (odds ratio, 4.340; 95%CI, 1.158–16.264; P = 0.029), respectively. At postoperative 2‐year, the recurrence rates were 5.56% in the 125I implant group and 9.09% in the non‐implant group (P = 0.029).

Conclusions:

Intraoperative implantation of 125I brachytherapy significantly increases the risk of AL, fecal incontinence, urinary dysfunction, and improves local control and do not improve overall survival after total mesorectal excision.
The Content of Thyroid Hormone Receptor α in Ewe Kisspeptin Neurones is not Season‐Dependent
Authors: Dufourny L. , Gennetay D. , Martinet S. , Lomet D. , Caraty A.
Published: December 2015

Seasonal reproduction is grounded in several mechanisms, among which are plasticity in both hormone synthesis and neuronal networks. Increased daylength on long days (LD) translates into local tri‐iodothyronin (T3) production in the mediobasal hypothalamus that will enable the transition to the anoestrus season in sheep. The photoperiod also strongly affects the content of kisspeptin (Kiss), a hypothalamic neuropeptide exerting a potent stimulatory effect on gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone release. Our hypothesis was that T3 directly inhibits Kiss release during LD. Using double immunocytochemistry, we first searched for coexpression of thyroid hormone receptor (THR)α in Kiss neurones in ewes with an active or inactive gonadotrophic axis. In both the preoptic area and the arcuate nucleus, most Kiss neurones were labelled by THR antibody under both physiological/photoperiodic conditions. These results suggest thyroid hormones may affect Kiss synthesis and release all through the year. We then attempted to assess the influence of T3 on Kiss content in hypothalamic explants sampled from ewes with an active gonadotrophic axis. Kiss produced by hypothalamic explants cultured with different doses of T3 (300 or 600 pg) and subjected to different times of incubation (2 or 24 h) was measured. No significant effects of T3 on Kiss tissular content were observed for the two doses of T3 and for the two incubation times. In light of these findings, potential reasons for the divergent effects of thyroid hormones on Kiss content are discussed. Our data emphasise that the effects of thyroid hormone on Kiss synthesis are not one‐sided and may affect a wide range of functions.
Salty and spicy food; are they involved in the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris? A case controlled study
Authors: El Darouti M. A. , Zeid O. A. , Abdel Halim D. M. , Hegazy R. A. , Kadry D. , Shehab D. I. , Abdelhaliem H. S. , Saleh M. A.
Published: December 2015

Background

Many studies have suggested a strong relation between diet and acne. Many patients with acne believe that spicy and salty foods exacerbate acne.

Aim

To assess the relationship between the dietary intake of salty and spicy food and the onset, severity, duration of acne.

Methods

Two hundred patients with acne vulgaris and 200 age‐ and gender‐matched controls were subjected to a detailed questionnaire taking, clinical examination and dietary assessment through using “24 h recall” method. Sodium content of the 24‐h food intake was computed by a computer program connecting participants' dietary information to the food composition table of National Nutrition Institute data base.

Results

Patients with acne consumed significantly higher daily amounts of sodium chloride (NaCl) (median 3367.54 mg) compared to the controls (median 2271.8 mg) (P < 0.001). A negative correlation between the amount of NaCl in the diet of patients with acne and the age of onset of acne lesions was detected (r = −0.216, P = 0.031). However, neither salty nor spicy food correlated with duration or severity of the disease.

Conclusion

Consumption of salty foods was significantly higher among patients with acne compared to acne free subjects, making the consumption of salty food a possible participating factor in the development of acne.
Recurrent Myocardial Infarction After Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Multivessel Coronary Disease Is Primarily Related to Stent Failure
Authors: Vink Maarten A. , Vos Nicola S. , Dirksen Maurits T. , Suttorp Maarten J. , Slagboom Ton , Patterson Mark S. , Kiemeneij Ferdinand , Laarman GertJan
Published: December 2015

Objectives

Our aim was to investigate the risk of events related to non‐culprit lesions after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with multivessel coronary disease (MVD).

Background

In patients undergoing primary PCI for ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) who are diagnosed with MVD, the optimal treatment strategy is currently under debate. Although observational data exposed an increased risk of multivessel PCI in the acute phase of STEMI, 2 recently published randomized controlled trials showed a reduction of death or recurrent myocardial infarction (MI) after preventive PCI of non‐culprit lesions when compared with culprit‐lesion PCI only.

Methods

We performed a post‐hoc analysis of 279 patients with MVD included in the Paclitaxel‐Eluting Stent versus Conventional Stent in Myocardial Infarction with ST‐Segment Elevation (PASSION) trial. We analyzed the incidence and cause of recurrent MI. Recurrent MI due to stent failure was assumed in the event of definite or probable stent thrombosis.

Results

After 5 years, 14 patients (5.7%) with MVD had a recurrent MI versus 17 (5.4%) patients with 1‐vessel disease (HR 1.06, 95%CI 0.52–2.15, P = 0.87). The majority of events was attributable to stent failure, while of the remaining 6 events, only 1 was proven to originate from a lesion that was judged significant at enrolment.

Conclusions

In this post‐hoc analysis of the PASSION trial, recurrent MI in patients with MVD was mainly related to stent failure rather than a new event originating from a significant stenosis in a non‐culprit coronary artery. (J Interven Cardiol 2015;28:523–530)
Benefits of Balloon‐Dilatable Bilateral Pulmonary Artery Banding in Patients With Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome and Other Complex Cardiac Anomalies
Authors: Kise Hiroaki , Suzuki Shoji , Hoshiai Minako , Toda Takako , Koizumi Keiichi , Hasebe Yohei , Kono Yosuke , Honda Yoshihiro , Kaga Shigeaki , Sugita Kanji
Published: December 2015

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential of balloon‐dilatable bilateral pulmonary artery banding (b‐PAB) and its impact on the configuration of the pulmonary artery (PA).

Background

We have previously used balloon‐dilatable b‐PAB as first‐stage palliation for patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) and other complex cardiac anomalies.

Methods

Two pliable tapes were placed around each branch of the PA and tightened with 7–0 polypropylene sutures in a manner that allowed for the subsequent adjustment of PA diameters. We retrospectively examined the adjustability of PA diameters by balloon dilation and the need for surgical PA angioplasty at later stages.

Results

From January 2010 to October 2013, we performed b‐PAB in 8 patients, including 3 borderline cases between biventricular repair (BVR) and univentricular repair (UVR). The b‐PAB procedures were performed at a median age of 6.5 days (range, 2–10 days). Balloon dilations were performed in 10 lesions in 4 patients. All of the procedures were performed safely. Two patients reached definite BVR. The remaining 6 patients underwent open palliative procedures with univentricular physiologies that resulted in 2 deaths unrelated to the initial b‐PAB. In all but 1 of the patients, the PA configuration was properly maintained and did not require surgical pulmonary angioplasty.

Conclusions

Balloon‐dilatable b‐PAB can be performed safely and prevents PA distortion at later stages. This technique should be considered for patients with complex cardiac anomalies if uncertainty exists regarding the optimal surgical strategy (BVR or UVR) in early infancy. (J Interven Cardiol 2015;28:594–599)
The Prevalence of TMD in Polish Young Adults
Authors: Loster Jolanta E. , Osiewicz Magdalena A. , Groch Magdalena , Ryniewicz Wojciech , Wieczorek Aneta
Published: December 2015

Purpose

The prevalence of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) in the general Polish population has not yet been thoroughly investigated. The aim of this study was to determine how frequently Polish young adults demonstrated the signs and symptoms of TMD, and how often they were aware of these.

Materials and Methods

The study involved 260 volunteers of approximately 18 years of age (and with an F:M ratio of 2.8), who had completed the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD) questionnaire in its internationally accepted Polish version. The volunteers were students from three randomly selected high schools in Kraków, Poland. Following the clinical examinations, all participants received none or one or more of the RDC/TMD axis I diagnoses on one or both sides: muscle disorders (group I), disk displacements (group II), arthralgia, osteoarthritis, and osteoarthrosis (group III). Classification on RDC/TMD axis II involved pain‐related impairment (Graded Chronic Pain Severity, from 0: no TMD pain in the prior 6 months, to IV: high disability—severely limiting), depression, and somatization levels (normal, moderate, severe).

Results

On the RDC/TMD axis I, 69 (26.5%) of the participants received one or more of the possible diagnoses. Awareness of TMD was present in 20 (7.7%) people from that group, in the form of self‐complaints. The difference between females and males was statistically significant (p  = 0.0013). On the RDC/TMD axis II assessment, a diagnosis of pain, depression, or somatization was given in 38 (14.6%) cases from that group.

Conclusion

Muscle disorders were most frequently diagnosed in the group of Polish young adults, and the prevalence of the disease did not differ across similar groups of young people.
Waist Circumference and Objectively Measured Sedentary Behavior in Rural School Adolescents
Authors: Machado‐Rodrigues Aristides M. , Coelho e Silva Manuel J. , Ribeiro Luís P. , Fernandes Romulo , Mota Jorge , Malina Robert M.
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND

Research on relationships between lifestyle behaviors and adiposity in school youth is potentially important for identifying subgroups at risk. This study evaluates the associations between waist circumference (WC) and objective measures of sedentary behavior (SB) in a sample of rural school adolescents.

METHODS

The sample included 254 students (114 boys, 140 girls), 13‐16 years of age, from rural regions of the Portuguese midlands. Height, weight, and WC were measured. Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) was assessed with the 20‐m shuttle‐run test. An uniaxial GT1M accelerometer was used to obtain 5 consecutive days of physically activity (PA) and SB. Multiple linear regression was used to test associations between WC and SB, adjusted for several potential confounders (age, sex, PA, CRF, parental education).

RESULTS

SB was not significantly associated with the WC, neither in the unadjusted model nor after adjustment for all potential confounders. In the final model, the unique significant predictor of the WC was cardiorespiratory fitness (β = −0.82; 95% confidence interval [CI], −1.02 to −0.62).

CONCLUSION

WC was not independently associated with SB time in rural school adolescents. Future research is claimed among rural adolescents in different geographic contexts to try to clarify recent findings of less studied communities.
Prioritizing Alcohol Prevention: Establishing Alcohol as the Gateway Drug and Linking Age of First Drink With Illicit Drug Use
Authors: Barry Adam E. , King Jessica , Sears Cynthia , Harville Cedric , Bondoc Irina , Joseph Kessy
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND

Given ever‐reducing budgets of community and school substance use prevention programs, there is a call for identifying the first substance in the sequence leading to polydrug use.

METHODS

Examining data from a nationally representative sample of 2835 United States 12th graders, we sought to determine (1) the first substance adolescents use; (2) order in which adolescents progress through alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana use; and (3) impact of age of initial substance use on lifetime and frequency of illicit substance use.

RESULTS

Alcohol is the most commonly used substance, and the majority of polysubstance using respondents consumed alcohol prior to tobacco or marijuana initiation. Respondents initiating alcohol use in sixth grade reported significantly greater lifetime illicit substance use (M = 1.9, standard deviation [SD] = 1.7, p < .001) and more frequent illicit substance use (M = 6.0, SD = 6.5, p < .001) than those initiating alcohol use in ninth grade or later. Overall, effect sizes for these differences were large (eta squared = 0.30 and 0.28, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Findings underscore the importance of screening for substance use, even among youth enrolled in elementary/middle school. In addition, school prevention programs should begin in elementary school (third grade) and target alcohol use.
Health Risk Behaviors in a Representative Sample of Bisexual and Heterosexual Female High School Students in Massachusetts
Authors: White Hughto Jaclyn M. , Biello Katie B. , Reisner Sari L. , Perez‐Brumer Amaya , Heflin Katherine J. , Mimiaga Matthew J.
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND

Differences in sexual health‐related outcomes by sexual behavior and identity remain underinvestigated among bisexual female adolescents.

METHODS

Data from girls (N = 875) who participated in the Massachusetts Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance survey were analyzed. Weighted logistic regression models were fit to examine sexual and psychosocial health by lifetime sexual behavior (behaviorally bisexual vs behaviorally heterosexual) and sexual identity (bisexual vs heterosexual) adjusting for grade and race/ethnicity.

RESULTS

Overall, 10.5% of girls reported lifetime bisexual behavior and 8.1% reported a bisexual identity. Behavior and identity were discordant for bisexual young women as 53.2% of behaviorally bisexual students had a bisexual identity and 46.8% had a heterosexual identity. Bisexual identity and behavior were associated with unprotected intercourse at last sexual encounter, early sexual debut, 4 or more lifetime partners, history of forced/unwanted sex, sexually transmitted infection testing history, past‐year depression, and past‐month drug use (all ps < .05).

CONCLUSION

Bisexuality, whether defined by identity or behavior, is associated with adverse sexual and psychosocial health outcomes in adolescent girls. Studies that explore wellness across the life span, and are designed to recognize developmental differences burgeoning in adolescence, may provide insights into the differential sexual risk outcomes observed among bisexual girls.
Levelling the reading gap: a socio‐spatial study of school libraries and reading in Singapore
Authors: Loh Chin Ee
Published: December 2015

This article takes a comparative socio‐spatial approach at the intersection of social class and reading politics to provide a fresh way of examining school reading policies and practices, unearthing previously hidden spaces of inequity for reading intervention. The juxtaposition of two nested case studies in Singapore, one of an elite all‐boys' school and another of a co‐educational government school with students in different academic tracks, revealed inequitable practices, specifically in the designs and uses of school library spaces between schools serving different social classes. The study argues that attempts to design reading interventions should move away from the view of student‐as‐problem to structure‐as‐problem in order to discover new perspectives for reading intervention. Additionally, this study demonstrates how foregrounding social class in educational research is necessary for effective design of educational strategies that aim to transform education and society by narrowing the gap between students from different social classes.
Alcohol consumption and risk of infection after a variceal bleeding in low‐risk patients
Authors: Conejo Irene , Augustin Salvador , Pons Mónica , Ventura‐Cots Meritxell , González Antonio , Esteban Rafael , Genescà Joan
Published: December 2015

Background & Aims

Antibiotic prophylaxis is a cornerstone in the management of acute variceal bleeding. However, emergence of multiresistant bacteria and antibiotic‐associated complications is a growing problem in cirrhosis. It has been proposed that certain low‐risk populations may have good outcomes without antibiotic. We aimed to analyse the stratified risk of bacterial infection after a variceal bleeding in previously considered low‐risk patients.

Methods

We analysed prospective data from all consecutive cirrhotic patients with acute variceal bleeding admitted to our tertiary hospital between 2004 and 2012. All patients received somatostatin, variceal ligation and antibiotic prophylaxis. Patients were followed until day 42 or death. Patients were stratified based on Child–Pugh class. Within the low‐risk strata, further one‐step stratification was performed using baseline risk factors identified through logistic regression multivariate adjustment.

Results

Two hundred and fifteen patients were included. Twenty‐seven patients (12.5%) developed 32 bacterial infections within 6 weeks after the index bleeding. Multivariate adjustment identified alcohol consumption as a significant risk factor for infection. Within previously considered low‐risk patients (Child–Pugh A), the risk of infection was significantly higher in patients with active alcohol consumption (21.4% vs. 0% in non‐drinkers, P = 0.015). The risk of infection in Child–Pugh A and B patients with non‐alcohol cirrhosis receiving antibiotics was very low (2/81, 2.5%).

Conclusions

Alcohol consumption significantly increased the risk of infection after a variceal bleeding in previously considered low‐risk patients. Within Child–Pugh A class, patients with active alcohol consumption should not be considered at low risk of infection.
Responses to simulated winter conditions differ between threespine stickleback ecotypes
Authors: Gibbons Taylor C. , Rudman Seth M. , Schulte Patricia M.
Published: December 2015

Abiotic factors can act as barriers to colonization and drive local adaptation. During colonization, organisms may cope with changes in abiotic factors using existing phenotypic plasticity, but the role of phenotypic plasticity in assisting or hindering the process of local adaptation remains unclear. To address these questions, we explore the role of winter conditions in driving divergence during freshwater colonization and the effects of plasticity on local adaptation in ancestral marine and derived freshwater ecotypes of threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus). We found that freshwater‐resident stickleback had greater tolerance of acute exposure to low temperatures than marine stickleback, but these differences were abolished after acclimation to simulated winter conditions (9L:15D photoperiod at 4 °C). Plasma chloride levels differed between the ecotypes, but showed a similar degree of plasticity between ecotypes. Gene expression of the epithelial calcium channel (ECaC) differed between ecotypes, with the freshwater ecotype demonstrating substantially greater expression than the marine ecotype, but there was no plasticity in this trait under these conditions in either ecotype. In contrast, growth (assessed as final mass) and the expression of an isoform of the electroneutral Na+/H+exchanger (NHE3) exhibited substantial change with temperature in the marine ecotype that was not observed in the freshwater ecotype under the conditions tested here, which is consistent with evolution of these traits by a process such as genetic assimilation. These data demonstrate substantial divergence in many of these traits between freshwater and marine stickleback, but also illustrate the complexity of possible relationships between plasticity and local adaptation.
Disseminated Emmonsia pasteuriana infection in India: a case report and a review
Authors: Malik Rupali , Capoor Malini R. , Vanidassane Ilavarasi , Gogna Arun , Singh Avninder , Sen Biswajit , Rudramurthy Shivaprakash M. , Honnavar Prasanna , Gupta Sunita , Chakrabarti Arunaloke
Published: December 2015

We report here the first case of disseminated Emmonsia pasteuriana infection in a patient with AIDS in India. The patient presented with weight loss, dyspnoea, left‐sided chest pain and multiple non‐tender skin lesions over face and body for 3 months. Disseminated emmonsiosis was diagnosed on microscopic examination and fungal culture of skin biopsy and needle aspirate of lung consolidation. It was confirmed by sequencing internal transcribed spacer region of rDNA, beta tubulin, actin, and intein PRP8. The patient responded to amphotericin B and itraconazole therapy.
Magnolia nuevoleonensissp. nov. (Magnoliaceae) from northeastern Mexico and a key to species of sectionMacrophylla
Authors: Vázquez‐García José Antonio , Domínguez‐Yescas Reyna , Velazco‐Macías Carlos , Shalisko Viacheslav , Merino‐Santi Rigoberto Efren
Published: December 2015

We describe and illustrateMagnolia nuevoleonensisA. Vázquez & Domínguez‐Yescas, a new deciduous tree species that belongs toM. sect.MacrophyllaFiglar & Nooteboom. It is morphologically similar toM. asheiWeath., but differs from the latter in being a larger tree, with smaller flowers, larger and broadly ovoid (vs cylindrical to ellipsoid) fruits, prominently beaked (vs shortly beaked) carpels, and firm and short (vs flexible and elongated) styles.