bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of gum chewing on sensitivity associated with in‐office whitening procedures
Authors: Henry RK , Carkin M
Published: April 2015

Objectives

Tooth sensitivity is the most common side effect of in‐office tooth‐whitening procedures. The purpose of this study was to determine whether chewing gum containing 0.6% casein phosphopeptide‐amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP‐ACP) before tooth whitening would reduce tooth sensitivity during an in‐office whitening procedure.

Methods

Thirty participants were enrolled and randomized into three groups as follows: group 1 was instructed to not chew gum during the study period; group 2 chewed five pieces of gum (with 0.6% CPP‐ACP) for 10 min each day 1 week before whitening; and group 3 chewed five pieces of gum (without CPP‐ACP) for 10 min each day 1 week before whitening. All participants had their teeth whitened with a 30% hydrogen peroxide in‐office whitening procedure. The participants' shades of teeth were evaluated with a spectrophotometer four times during the study: at the initial screening visit, immediately before whitening, immediately after whitening and 1 week after whitening. Participants' sensitivity levels were evaluated each time the shades were evaluated and additionally at 24 h after whitening using a 100‐mm visual analogue scale.

Results

Thirty participants were enrolled in the study. The average shade change was −2.27 (±2.07). The average sensitivity for all groups at visit 1 was 5.12 (±13.94). The average sensitivity for all groups after whitening was 19.81 (±13.95). There were significant differences in sensitivity between groups 2 and 3 (P = 0.02), but neither group was significantly different from the control group (P = 0.86, P = 0.07).

Conclusions

Chewing gum before whitening, including gum with CPP‐ACP, did not reduce sensitivity during in‐office whitening procedures.
Treatment satisfaction and clinically meaningful symptom improvement in men with lower urinary tract symptoms and prostatic enlargement secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia: Secondary results from a 6‐month, randomized, double‐blind study comparing finasteride plus tadalafil with finasteride plus placebo
Authors: Roehrborn Claus G , Casabé Adolfo , Glina Sidney , Sorsaburu Sebastian , Henneges Carsten , Viktrup Lars
Published: April 2015

Objectives

To report the secondary analyses of treatment satisfaction and clinically meaningful improvements in a randomized study comparing coadministration of tadalafil 5 mg with finasteride 5 mg versus finasteride alone in men with prostatic enlargement secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Methods

An international, randomized, double‐blind, parallel study was carried out in men aged ≥45 years who were 5‐alpha reductase inhibitor naïve, and had an International Prostate Symptom Score ≥13 and prostate volume ≥30 mL; 350 men received placebo/finasteride and 345 received tadalafil/finasteride over 26 weeks. Treatment satisfaction was assessed per protocol using the Treatment Satisfaction Scale‐Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. Responder cut‐offs, analyzed post‐hoc were total International Prostate Symptom Score improvement ≥3 points or ≥25% from randomization.

Results

Baseline patient characteristics were generally comparable between responders and non‐responders. The proportion of patients with an International Prostate Symptom Score improvement ≥3 points with tadalafil/finasteride and placebo/finasteride, respectively, at week 4 was 57.0% and 47.9% (OR 1.45, 95% confidence interval 1.07–1.97), at week 12 was 68.8% and 60.7% (OR 1.48, 95% confidence interval 1.07–2.05) and at week 26 was 71.4% and 70.2% (OR 1.14, 95% confidence interval 0.81–1.61); for IPSS change ≥25%, the corresponding proportions were 44.8% and 32.9% (OR 1.66, 95% confidence interval 1.21–2.28), 55.5% and 51.9% (OR 1.18, 95% confidence interval 0.87–1.62), and 62.0% and 58.3% (OR 1.23, 95% confidence interval 0.89–1.70). Treatment satisfaction at week 26 was significantly greater with tadalafil/finasteride versus placebo/finasteride for total treatment satisfaction scale score (P=0.031) and satisfaction with efficacy subscore (P = 0.025); scores were not significantly different between treatments for satisfaction with dosing or side‐effects (both P ≥ 0.371).

Conclusions

Tadalafil/finasteride results in significantly more patients achieving early clinical meaningful improvements in symptoms, and in greater treatment satisfaction versus placebo/finasteride.
Hypomagnesaemia linked to depression: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Cheungpasitporn W. , Thongprayoon C. , Mao M. A. , Srivali N. , Ungprasert P. , Varothai N. , Sanguankeo A. , Kittanamongkolchai W. , Erickson S. B.
Published: April 2015

Background

The reported risk of depression in patients with hypomagnesaemia is controversial.

Aim

The objective of this meta‐analysis was to assess the association between depression and hypomagnesaemia.

Methods

A literature search was performed using MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Database and clinicaltrials.gov from inception through October 2014. Studies that reported odds ratios, relative risks or hazard ratios comparing the risk of depression in patients with hypomagnesaemia were included. Pooled risk ratios (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using a random‐effect, generic inverse variance method.

Results

Six observational studies (three cohort studies, two cross‐sectional studies and a case–control study) with a total of 19 137 patients were identified and included in the data analysis. The pooled RR of depression in patients with hypomagnesaemia was 1.34 (95% CI, 1.01–1.79, I2 = 33%). The association between depression and hypomagnesaemia was marginally insignificant after the sensitivity analysis including only cohort and case–control studies, with a pooled RR of 1.38 (95% CI, 0.92–2.07, I2 = 24%).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates a potential association between hypomagnesaemia and depression. Further studies assessing the benefits of treatment of hypomagnesaemia in patients with depression are needed.
Appropriate clinical use of human leukocyte antigen typing for coeliac disease: an Australasian perspective
Authors: Tye‐Din J. A. , Cameron D. J. S. , Daveson A. J. , Day A. S. , Dellsperger P. , Hogan C. , Newnham E. D. , Shepherd S. J. , Steele R. H. , Wienholt L. , Varney M. D.
Published: April 2015

The past decade has seen human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typing emerge as a remarkably popular test for the diagnostic work‐up of coeliac disease with high patient acceptance. Although limited in its positive predictive value for coeliac disease, the strong disease association with specific HLA genes imparts exceptional negative predictive value to HLA typing, enabling a negative result to exclude coeliac disease confidently. In response to mounting evidence that the clinical use and interpretation of HLA typing often deviates from best practice, this article outlines an evidence‐based approach to guide clinically appropriate use of HLA typing, and establishes a reporting template for pathology providers to improve communication of results.
From spouse to caregiver and back: a grounded theory study of post‐intensive care unit spousal caregiving
Authors: Ågård Anne Sophie , Egerod Ingrid , Tønnesen Else , Lomborg Kirsten
Published: April 2015

Aim

To explore the challenges and caring activities of spouses of intensive care unit survivors during the first year of patient recovery.

Background

Every year, millions of people globally are discharged from an intensive care unit after critical illness to continue treatment, care and rehabilitation in general hospital wards, rehabilitation facilities and at home. Consequently, millions of spouses become informal caregivers. Little is known, however, about the concrete challenges spouses face in post‐intensive care unit everyday life.

Design

Explorative, qualitative grounded theory study.

Methods

Participants were spouses of intensive care unit survivors. The study was undertaken in Denmark in 2009–2010. Data consisted of 35 semi‐structured dyad interviews at 3 and 12 months post‐intensive care unit discharge, two group interviews with patients and two with spouses.

Findings

‘Shifting their role from spouse to caregiver and back’ was identified as the core category of the study. The role shifts progressed in a dynamic process involving four elements: (1) committing to caregiving; (2) acquiring caregiving skills; (3) negotiating level of caregiving and (4) gradually leaving the caregiver role. Post‐ICU caregiving comprised five patient dimensions: observing, assisting, coaching, advocating and managing activities.

Conclusions

Spouses play a vital and multifaceted role in post‐intensive care unit recovery. The findings can inform healthcare professionals in their efforts to prepare intensive care unit patients' families for the time following intensive care unit and hospital discharge. Hospital staff, rehabilitation experts and primary care professionals must acknowledge spouses' important contribution from intensive care unit admission throughout recovery.
Validation of the OMRON M3500 Blood Pressure Measuring Device Using Normal‐ and High‐Speed Modes in Adult and Specific Populations (Obese and Children) According to AAMI Protocol
Authors: Chahine Mirna N. , Assemaani Nathalie , Sayed Hassan Ghada , Cham Mariam , Salameh Pascale , Asmar Roland
Published: April 2015

The present study aimed to validate the accuracy of blood pressure (BP) measurements of the OMRON M3500 automatic oscillometric BP device by using normal‐ and high‐speed modes in adult and specific populations (obese and children) according to American National Standards Institute/Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI)/International Organization for Standardization/81060‐2:2009 protocol. The validation was performed in 135 patients: 100 adults and 35 children (aged 3–12 years). The results showed a mean error of the individual paired determinations of the OMRON device and mercury sphygmomanometers within values of criterion 1 (5±8 mm Hg). Analysis of the averaged paired determinations per subject of the OMRON device and standard mercury sphygmomanometer fit within the acceptable ranges of criterion 2 (<6.71 systolic BP and <5.77 diastolic BP). Readings of the OMRON M3500 BP device fulfill criteria 1 and 2 of the AAMI protocol in both speed modes.
Keeping up with the Neighbours: Diffusion of Norms and Practices Through Networks of Employer and Employee Organizations in the Eastern Partnership and the Mediterranean
Authors: Turkina Ekaterina , Kourtikakis Kostas
Published: April 2015

Using social network analysis and logistic regression, we analyse how inter‐organizational networks facilitate co‐operation and the transfer of best practice from EU‐based organizations to organizations in the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) countries. More specifically, we examine networks of employer and employee organizations that participate in the Civil Society Forum of the Eastern Partnership and in TRESMED, a Mediterranean project. We find that networks are successful at disseminating principles and good practices of economic and social partnership, but also that dissemination proceeds slowly. In addition, we detect more co‐operation among employer than among employee organizations, which reflects collective action difficulties facing organized labour more generally. Last, we find that inter‐organizational co‐operation is more intense in the Southern than in the Eastern neighbourhood, which is explained by contextual differences as well as by the EU's longer‐term engagement with the Mediterranean than with the countries on its Eastern frontier.
Post‐weaning parental care increases fitness but is not heritable in North American red squirrels
Authors: Lane J. E. , McAdam A. G. , Charmantier A. , Humphries M. M. , Coltman D. W. , Fletcher Q. , Gorrell J. C. , Boutin S.
Published: April 2015

Most empirical attempts to explain the evolution of parental care have focused on its costs and benefits (i.e. fitness consequences). In contrast, few investigations have been made of the other necessary prerequisite for evolutionary change, inheritance. Here, we examine the fitness consequences and heritability (h2) of a post‐weaning parental care behaviour (territory bequeathal) in a wild population of North American red squirrels. Each year, a subset (average across all years = 19%) of reproductive females bequeathed their territory to a dependent offspring. Bequeathing females experienced higher annual reproductive success and did not suffer a survival cost to themselves relative to those females retaining their territory. Bequeathing females thus realized higher relative annual fitness [ω = 1.18 ± 0.03 (SE)] than nonbequeathing females [ω = 0.96 ± 0.02 (SE)]. Additive genetic influences on bequeathal behaviour, however, were not significantly different from 0 (h2 = 1.9 × 10−3; 95% highest posterior density interval = 3.04 × 10−8to 0.37) and, in fact, bequeathal behaviour was not significantly repeatable (R = 2.0 × 10−3; 95%HPDinterval =0–0.27). In contrast, directional environmental influences were apparent. Females were more likely to bequeath in years following low food abundance and when food availability in the upcoming autumn was high. Despite an evident fitness benefit, a lack of heritable genetic variance will constrain evolution of this trait.
Detection of Salmonella spp. in Eight Complex Food Matrices Using Polymerase Chain Reaction Assay
Authors: Alves Juliane , Niguma Natália H. , de Oliveira Tereza C.R.M.
Published: April 2015

Conventional methods for the detection of Salmonella based on culturing are time‐consuming and laborious. The aim of this study was to develop a template preparation method and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay for the detection of Salmonella spp. in egg yolk, pizza, ground beef, pork, pork sausage, chicken drumsticks, mayonnaise and Minas cheese. The DNA extraction was performed with thermal lysis followed by nucleic acid purification with phenol‐chloroform. After the use of this template preparation method, no inhibitory substances for the PCR were observed in those eight complex food matrices. The PCR technique detected Salmonella spp. with a sensitivity of 1 cfu/mL (colony forming unit per milliliter) of all food matrices tested after 18 h of enrichment in buffered peptone water. This method is relatively inexpensive, reduces time of analysis in comparison to the reference method, and can be used in food microbiological analyses and epidemiological studies.

Practical Applications

The developed template preparation method and PCR are an efficient means to detect Salmonella spp. in eight complex food matrices (in egg yolk, pizza, ground beef, pork, pork sausage, chicken drumsticks, mayonnaise and Minas cheese) after a 18 h of enrichment. This represents a great advantage in order to reduce cost and time of analysis by shorter time of incubation and reduction in enrichment steps in comparison to the analytical reference method. This method can be used in food microbiological analyses and epidemiological studies.
The effects of a TGR5 agonist and a dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitor on dextran sulfate sodium‐induced colitis in mice
Authors: Sakanaka Taisuke , Inoue Takuya , Yorifuji Naoki , Iguchi Munetaka , Fujiwara Kaori , Narabayashi Ken , Kakimoto Kazuki , Nouda Sadaharu , Okada Toshihiko , Kuramoto Takanori , Ishida Kumi , Abe Yosuke , Takeuchi Toshihisa , Umegaki Eiji , Akiba Yasutada , Kaunitz Jonathan D , Higuchi Kazuhide
Published: April 2015

Background and Aim

Luminal nutrients stimulate enteroendocrine L cells to release gut hormones, including intestinotrophic glucagon‐like peptide‐2 (GLP‐2). Because L cells express the bile acid receptor TGR5 and dipeptidyl peptidase‐IV (DPPIV) rapidly degrades GLPs, we hypothesized that luminal TGR5 activation may attenuate intestinal injury via GLP‐2 release, which is enhanced by DPPIV inhibition.

Methods

Intestinal injury was induced in mice by administration of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in drinking water (free access to water containing 5% DSS for 7 days). The selective TGR5 agonist betulinic acid (BTA) and the DPPIV inhibitor sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate (STG) were administered orally for 7 days. Male C57BL/6 mice (6–7 weeks old) were divided into five groups: normal control group, disease control group, BTA low group (drinking water containing 15 mg/L BTA), BTA high group (50 mg/L BTA), and BTA high + STG (3 mg/kg, i.g.) group.

Results

The selective TGR5 agonist BTA dose‐dependently suppressed disease activity index and mRNA expression of the pro‐inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, and tumor necrosis factor‐α in the colon. Nevertheless, STG administration had little additive effect on BTA‐induced protection. Fibroblast activation protein mRNA expression, but not expression of other DPP family members, was increased in the colon of DSS‐treated mice with increased mucosal DPPIV. Co‐administration of the selective GLP‐2 antagonist GLP‐2 (3–33) reversed the effect of BTA.

Conclusion

The selective TGR5 agonist BTA ameliorated DSS‐induced colitis in mice via the GLP‐2 pathway with no effect of DPPIV inhibition, suggesting that other DPP enzymatic activity is involved in GLP‐2 degradation.
Study of the mechanisms of a Japanese traditional fermented medicine in the improvement of constipation
Authors: Shimoyama Tadashi , Takahashi Ryoki , Kimura Moto , Fukuda Yoshihiro
Published: April 2015

Background and Aim

Gut Working Tablet (GWT) is a Japanese traditional fermented medicine based on Aspergillus oryzae NK‐fermented grain germ. Although GWT has been used by patients with constipation, the mechanism has not been investigated. The aim of this study was to examine the possible mechanisms of the effect of GWT on constipation.

Methods

The effect of GWT water extracts on gut contractility using ileum strips from guinea pig and on the growth of Bifidobacterium longum were examined in vitro. The 14 Sprague Dawley rats were administered loperamide at 10 mg/day per kg for 3 days. They were fed with and without 5% of GWT before and during administration of loperamide. Number of stools and weight of feces were measured before and during administration of loperamide. The concentrations of short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the feces and cecal contents were measured by gas chromatography.

Results

GWT water extracts dose‐dependently induced ileal contractile responses, which were inhibited by atropine. The growth of B. longum was increased in the presence of GWT water extracts in a dose‐dependent manner (P < 0.01 vs control). The decrease in both the number and weight of feces caused by loperamide was improved by GWT administration (P < 0.05 vs loperamide). The decrease in the butyric acid concentration in feces and cecal contents induced by the administration of loperamide was inhibited by GWT (P = 0.035 and 0.018).

Conclusion

GWT water extracts may induce cholinergic‐like stimulation and promote the growth of probiotics. Furthermore, GWT water extract contributed to normalization of colonic SCFAs. These results may explain, at least in part, the beneficial effects of GWT on constipation.
Confocal laser endomicroscopy: A new gold standard for the assessment of mucosal healing in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Macé Vincent , Ahluwalia Amrita , Coron Emmanuel , Le Rhun Marc , Boureille Arnaud , Bossard Céline , Mosnier Jean‐François , Matysiak‐Budnik Tamara , Tarnawski Andrzej S
Published: April 2015

Background and Aim

Endoscopic assessment of mucosal healing in ulcerative colitis (UC) is increasingly accepted as a measure of disease activity, therapeutic goal, and the key prognostic indicator. While regular endoscopy evaluates appearance of the mucosal surface, confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE) enables in vivo visualization of subepithelial mucosa at 1000× magnification during ongoing endoscopy. Our aims were to determine using CLE whether endoscopically normal appearing colonic mucosa in patients with UC in remission (UC‐IR) has fully regenerated mucosal structures, resolved inflammation, and to identify the mechanisms.

Methods

Twelve patients (six controls and six with UC‐IR) underwent colonoscopy using CLE and intravenous fluorescein infusion. During colonoscopy, CLE images of colonic mucosa and conventional mucosal biopsies were obtained and evaluated using image‐analysis systems. We quantified; (i) regeneration of colonic crypts and blood microvessels; (ii) cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) expression; (iii) mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations; (iv) inflammatory infiltration; and (v) vascular permeability (VP).

Results

In control subjects, CLE demonstrated normal colonic crypts and microvasculature. COX2 expression was minimal, and < 7% crypts showed mtDNA mutations. Colonic mucosa of UC‐IR patients had impaired and distorted crypt regeneration, increased COX2, 69% crypts with mtDNA mutations, persistent inflammation, and abnormal vascular architecture with increased VP (all P < 0.001 vs normal mucosa).

Conclusions

(i) Endoscopically normal appearing colonic mucosa of patients with UC‐IR remains abnormal: CLE demonstrates impaired crypt regeneration, persistent inflammation, distinct abnormalities in angioarchitecture and increased vascular permeability; molecular imaging showed increased COX2 and mtDNA mutations; (ii) CLE may serve as a new gold standard for the assessment of mucosal healing in UC.
Detailed analysis of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and tumor budding identifies predictors of long‐term survival in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kohler Ilona , Bronsert Peter , Timme Sylvia , Werner Martin , Brabletz Thomas , Hopt Ulrich Theodor , Schilling Oliver , Bausch Dirk , Keck Tobias , Wellner Ulrich Friedrich
Published: April 2015

Background and Aim

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by aggressive biology and poor prognosis even after resection. Long‐term survival is very rare and cannot be reliably predicted. Experimental data suggest an important role of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) in invasion and metastasis of PDAC. Tumor budding is regarded as the morphological correlate of local invasion and cancer cell dissemination. The aim of this study was to evaluate the biological and prognostic implications of EMT and tumor budding in PDAC of the pancreatic head.

Methods

Patients were identified from a prospectively maintained database, and baseline, operative, histopathological, and follow‐up data were extracted. Serial tissue slices stained for Pan‐Cytokeratin served for analysis of tumor budding, and E‐Cadherin, Beta‐Catenin, and Vimentin staining for analysis of EMT. Baseline, operative, standard pathology, and immunohistochemical parameters were evaluated for prediction of long‐term survival (≥ 30 months) in uni‐ and multivariate analysis.

Results

Intra‐ and intertumoral patterns of EMT marker expression and tumor budding provide evidence of partial EMT induction at the tumor–host interface. Lymph node ratio and E‐Cadherin expression in tumor buds were independent predictors of long‐term survival in multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

Detailed immunohistochemical assessment confirms a relationship between EMT and tumor budding at the tumor–host interface. A small group of patients with favorable prognosis can be identified by combined assessment of lymph node ratio and EMT in tumor buds.
Ethical issues in gastroenterology research
Authors: Eastwood Gregory L
Published: April 2015

Ethical issues have become increasingly important in gastroenterology research. This is for several reasons, including (i) an understanding of how conflicts of interest might affect research, (ii) the influence of the drug and device industries on research, (iii) ghostwriting (taking credit for something you did not write), (iv) the occurrence of ethically inappropriate research and scientific misconduct, and (v) respect for the rights of research subjects. These include the rights (i) to give informed consent to participate after understanding the purposes, risks, and benefits of the research; (ii) to ask questions; and (iii) to withdraw from participation at any time. Notions of doing good (beneficence), avoiding harm (non‐maleficence), confidentiality, and, most important, the primacy of the welfare of the patient or research subject can be traced to antiquity. In the modern era, the Nuremburg Code (1947), the Declaration of Helsinki (1964), the Belmont report (1979), and other events and reports have led to the refinement of ethical practices in both clinical and research domains, have reinforced those long observed principles, and have given rise to the newer principles of autonomy and justice. The ethical conduct of research not only promotes good research but also is in the best interests of research subjects, investigators, sponsors, patients, and the public.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease in patients with diabetes: Preliminary study
Authors: Fujiwara Mariko , Miwa Takashi , Kawai Takashi , Odawara Masato
Published: April 2015

Background and Aim

Some studies report that complications of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occur more frequently in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) than in non‐diabetic patients. This study used transnasal endoscopy to elucidate the current status of concurrent GERD in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, and to examine the associations between intraesophageal pressure and GERD, as well as other neuropathic conditions.

Methods

The study included 57 outpatients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The mean age was 67 years and the duration of DM was 13 years. The mean hemoglobin A1c was 6.8%. Transnasal endoscopic evaluation items were (i) the presence or absence of esophagitis and its severity; (ii) intraesophageal pressure; and (iii) Helicobacter pylori status, which was evaluated by endoscopic findings, such as the presence or absence of gastritis and peptic ulcer, and by urea breath test.

Results

Of 57 patients, 24 (42.1%) were given a diagnosis of GERD based on endoscopy. Patients with concurrent GERD were younger, had shorter duration of DM, and were taller and heavier. Interestingly, no difference in body mass index was observed. There was no significant association between the presence of concurrent GERD and diabetic complications, including peripheral neuropathy, and infection or non‐infection with H. pylori. Although there was no significant association between the presence of concurrent GERD and intraesophageal pressure values, we found aging, reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate, and the presence of autonomic nerve symptoms to correlate with reduced intraesophageal pressure.

Conclusion

The results of this study could be used to answer the question of whether or not endoscopic GERD is a diabetic complication; however, further study is required.
Pain experience of adults with intellectual disabilities – caregiver reports
Authors: Weissman‐Fogel I. , Roth A. , Natan‐Raav K. , Lotan M.
Published: April 2015

Background

Pain is a problem for individuals with intellectual and developmental disability (IDD), secondary to their impairments, due to invasive medical procedures that these individuals undergo on a regular basis. Current literature indicates pain as a common experience for children withIDD, yet no such reports have been made in regard to adults withIDD.

Purposes

This study aimed (1) to re‐establish the reliability of caregivers as proxy observers; (2) to evaluate the pain experience of adults withIDDby caregivers' proxy report; and (3) to assess the sensitivity of the Non‐Communicating Adult Pain Checklist (NCAPC) as a pain scale for chronic pain (CP) in individuals withIDD.

Method

Frothy‐three caregivers, working for more than 3 years with adults withIDD, performed pain assessments of 187 individuals living in a residential facility. Two caregivers evaluated whether each resident suffers from pain and assessed the intensity, causes and duration of pain experience. Furthermore, 52/187 residents [26 withCPand 26 pain free (PF) based on medical record and caregiver reports] were evaluated by an additional seven caregivers using theNCAPCin order to establish the reliability of caregivers as proxy observers.

Results

According to caregivers' report, 48% of adults withIDDsuffer from pain at a mean level of 6/10, with more than 10% suffering from high levels of pain on a constant basis. Inter‐rater agreement was found mostly high with intraclass correlation values ranging between 0.73 and 0.93. Using theNCAPC, we were able to identifyCPandPFindividuals with a significant score difference (P = 0.003).

Conclusions

The results support the use of theNCAPCas a scale to evaluateCPin adults withIDD. The findings reiterate the reliability of caregivers as proxy observers and the importance of involving them in identifying pain behaviours of their protégées. Our findings reiterate the need for an immediate action for appropriate pain management protocols for adult withIDD.
The role of parkinson's disease‐associated receptor GPR37 in the hippocampus: functional interplay with the adenosinergic system
Authors: Lopes João P. , Morató Xavier , Souza Carolina , Pinhal Cindy , Machado Nuno J. , Canas Paula M. , Silva Henrique B. , Stagljar Igor , Gandía Jorge , Fernández‐Dueñas Víctor , Luján Rafael , Cunha Rodrigo A. , Ciruela Francisco
Published: April 2015

GPR37 is an orphan G protein‐coupled receptor mostly enriched in brain areas such as the cerebellum, striatum, and hippocampus. Identified as a substrate of parkin, GPR37 has been suggested to play a role in Parkinson's disease. Distributed throughout the brain, the function of GPR37, however, remains unknown. We now provide the first mapping of GPR37 within the hippocampus, where GPR37 is widely expressed and localized at the level of the extrasynaptic plasma membrane of dendritic spines, dendritic shafts, and axon terminals. GPR37 per se does not appear to play a role in learning and memory, since knocking out GPR37 (GPR37‐KO) did not alter the performance in different hippocampal‐related memory tasks. This is in agreement with slice electrophysiology experiments showing no differences both in short‐term plasticity paired‐pulse facilitation and long‐term potentiation between WT and GPR37‐KO mice. However, we report a potential functional interaction between GPR37 and adenosine A2A receptors (A2AR) in the hippocampus, with A2AR modulating the GPR37‐associated phenotype. Thus, the absence of GPR37 appeared to sensitize mice to hippocampal A2AR‐mediated signaling, as observed by the effect of the A2AR antagonist SCH58261 increasing synaptic depotentiation, reducing novel object recognition memory and reverting the anxiolytic effect of GPR37 deletion. Collectively, these findings afford insight into the localization and role of the orphan GPR37 within the hippocampus with potential involvement in A2AR function (i.e., A2AR sensitization).

image

GPR37 is an orphan G protein‐coupled receptor widely expressed in the hippocampus and localized at the level of the extrasynaptic plasma membrane of dendritic spines, dendritic shafts and axon terminals. This orphan receptor per se does not appear to directly control the learning and memory processes; however knocking‐out GPR37 triggers anxiolytic‐like effects and sensitizes mice to hippocampal A2AR‐mediated signalling.
WHAT'S TO KNOW ABOUT TIME USE?
Authors: Hamermesh Daniel S.
Published: April 2015

Stimulated by the availability of large sets of microeconomic data, research on the economics of time use has been a growth industry in the past 20 years. That growth has included studies that have focused on the effect of people's value of time; on the mix of nonmarket activities that they undertake; on the interactions of spouses’ choices of time use; on the valuation of nonmarket time, and on the timing of nonmarket and market activities. By laying out these research questions and indicating their importance, this essay provides a framework for a series of meta‐analyses.
Dopamine D2 receptor blocker thioridazine induces cell death in human uterine cervical carcinoma cell line SiHa
Authors: Mao Min , Yu Tinghe , Hu Jianguo , Hu Lina
Published: April 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore the correlation of dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) and the development of uterine cervical cancer, and the effect of thioridazine (an antagonist of DRD2) on the SiHa cell line.

Material and Methods

The expression of DRD2 in tissues was detected with immunohistochemistry. SiHa cells were exposed to different concentrations of thioridazine for 24 h, and then cell viability was determined. After 20‐μM thioridazine treatment for 24 h, the protein level of DRD2 in SiHa cells was analyzed by Western blots, apoptosis was detected with the phosphatidylserine externalization and comet assay, and necrosis was detected by measuring high‐mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1).

Results

The expression of DRD2 gradually increased from normal to cancer tissues (P < 0.01). In vitro, DRD2 blocker thioridazine treatment resulted in death of SiHa cells with the expression of DRD2 significantly regulated down (P < 0.05), and thioridazine significantly induced SiHa apoptosis (P = 0.016) and necrosis (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Higher DRD2 expression is closely associated with cervical cancer progression. After blocking DRD2, SiHa cell growth is significantly suppressed, indicating that DRD2 may function as a novel tumor marker and a potential therapeutic target for cervical cancer.
Prenatal diagnosis of multiple ventriculocoronary connections in pulmonary atresia with an intact ventricular septum: A case report
Authors: Cha Hyun‐Hwa , Choo Youn Sil , Seong Won Joon
Published: April 2015

We report a case of prenatally detected pulmonary atresia with an intact ventricular septum accompanied by multiple ventriculocoronary connections. This lesion was diagnosed by using ultrasonography at 20 weeks' gestation, and this antepartum diagnosis was confirmed with both postnatal echocardiography and chest computed tomography. The neonate underwent a modified Blalock–Taussig shunt on the 15th day of life, and was discharged 8 days after the surgery.
Psychiatric comorbidity in women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Annagür Bilge Burçak , Kerimoglu Özlem Seçilmiş , Tazegül Aybike , Gündüz Şule , Gençoglu Berat Berrin
Published: April 2015

Aim

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder that women experience during their reproductive years and is associated with many psychiatric disorders. This study sought to determine the existence of psychiatric disorders in women with untreated PCOS. Another objective of the study was to examine whether an association exists between psychiatric disorders, insulin resistance, and body mass index.

Material and Methods

Women who met the Rotterdam criteria for PCOS (n = 88) were included. Structured Clinical Interviews for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Edn were conducted. After the psychiatric evaluations, blood samples were obtained from the participants.

Results

Prevalence for all comorbid psychiatric disorders was 50% (n = 44). The most common psychiatric disorder was major depression (33%), followed by generalized anxiety disorder (13.6%) and binge‐eating disorder (6.8%). No significant difference in body mass index and insulin resistance index scores was found between women with and without psychiatric disorders (P > 0.05 for both comparisons).

Conclusion

A considerable number of women with PCOS experience a psychiatric disorder during their lifetime. Clinicians should be aware that women with PCOS are at a high risk for major depression, generalized anxiety disorder, and binge‐eating disorder.
General Movements Assessment of infants in the neonatal intensive care unit following surgery
Authors: Crowle Cathryn , Badawi Nadia , Walker Karen , Novak Iona
Published: April 2015

Aim

There is an identified gap in the literature regarding the use of the General Movements (GMs) Assessment to identify risk in infants post‐surgery. This paper aims to examine the GMs for infants who have undergone surgery to identify common risk profiles in the writhing age.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study of 170 infants (99 male, 58%) admitted to a neonatal surgical unit from 2012 until June 2014. Infants were born at a mean age of 38 weeks (standard deviation (SD) 2.3), and writhing GMs were conducted at term (40 weeks, SD 2.6) following either cardiac (n = 84, 49%) or non‐cardiac surgery (n = 86, 51%). GMs were categorised by three trained assessors.

Results

Normal writhing was recorded in 64 infants (38%). The most common profile was poor repertoire (n = 80, 47%), with 14 (8%) cramped synchronised. There was no difference in scores between infants who had undergone cardiac versus non‐cardiac surgery (P = 0.45).

Conclusion

This is the first report on the GMs assessment in an infant surgical population. Infants who have undergone surgery most commonly display poor repertoire writhing movements. Research is needed to determine the ability of the GMs to predict neurodevelopmental outcomes in this population.
Antimicrobial properties of K
alanchoe blossfeldiana: a focus on drug resistance with particular reference to quorum sensing-mediated bacterial biofilm formation
Authors: Sarkar Ratul , Mondal Chaitali , Bera Rammohan , Chakraborty Sumon , Barik Rajib , Roy Paramita , Kumar Alekh , Yadav Kirendra K , Choudhury Jayanta , Chaudhary Sushil K , Samanta Samir K , Karmakar Sanmoy , Das Satadal , Mukherjee Pulok K , Mukherjee Joydeep , Sen Tuhinadri
Published: April 2015

Objectives

This study attempts to investigate the antimicrobial properties of Kalanchoe blossfeldiana with a particular reference to quorum sensing (QS)-mediated biofilm formation.

Methods

The methanol extract of K. blossfeldiana leaves (MEKB) was evaluated for antimicrobial properties including QS-controlled production of biofilm (including virulence factor, motility and lactone formation) in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Methanol extract of K. blossfeldiana was also evaluated for anti-cytokine (tumour necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-6 and interleukin-1 beta) properties in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC).

Key findings

Methanol extract of K. blossfeldiana exhibited antimicrobial effect on clinical isolates, as well as standard reference strains. Pseudomonas aeruginosa exposed to MEKB (subminimum inhibitory concentration (MIC)) displayed reduced biofilm formation, whereas supra-MIC produced destruction of preformed biofilms. Methanol extract of K. blossfeldiana reduced the secretion of virulence factors (protease and pyoverdin) along with generation of acyl homoserine lactone (AHL). Confocal laser scanning microscopy images indicate reduction of biofilm thickness. The extract also reduced cytokine formation in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated PBMC.

Conclusions

K alanchoe blossfeldiana was found to interfere with AHL production, which in turn may be responsible for downregulating QS-mediated production of biofilm and virulence. This first report on the antibiofilm and anticytokine properties of this plant may open up new vistas for future exploration of this plant for combating biofilm-related resistant infections.
W
ithania somnifera (Ashwagandha) in neurobehavioural disorders induced by brain oxidative stress in rodents: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Durg Sharanbasappa , Dhadde Shivsharan B , Vandal Ravichandra , Shivakumar Badamaranahalli S , Charan Chabbanahalli S
Published: April 2015

Objectives

W ithania somnifera has been in use for several thousand years in Ayurveda to treat various neurological disorders. There is, however, not much scientific data on its protective role in neuronal pathology specifically against brain oxidative stress. Hence, an attempt is made in this work for systematic review and meta-analysis of W. somnifera on neurobehavioural disorders induced by brain oxidative stress in rodents.

Methods

A systematic search of the effect of W. somnifera on brain oxidative stress-induced neuronal pathology was performed using electronic databases. The systematic review was performed on neurobehavioural parameters, whereas meta-analysis of W. somnifera effect was done on oxidative stress markers (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione and lipid peroxidation), nitrite, protein carbonyl, AchE, ChAT and Ach of rodent brain. Data were analysed using Review Manager Software.

Key findings

Twenty-eight studies were selected based upon the inclusion and exclusion criteria. W. somnifera appreciably inhibited the neurological abnormalities due to oxidative stress in rodent brain produced by different physical and chemical stimuli. W. somnifera also significantly restored the altered oxidative and other stress markers in different parts of rodent brain.

The systematic review provides scientific evidence for the traditional claim of W. somnifera use in different neurological aliments. However, future clinical trials are mandated to establish the therapeutic efficacy and safety in human beings.
In-vitro evaluation of performance of solid immediate release dosage forms of weak bases in upper gastrointestinal lumen: experience with miconazole and clopidogrel salts
Authors: Dimopoulou Maria , Mourouti Canella-Stefania , Vertzoni Maria , Symillides Mira , Reppas Christos
Published: April 2015

Objectives

Evaluate the impact of salt and counterion identity on performance of solid immediate release dosage forms of miconazole and clopidogrel, respectively, in fasted upper gastrointestinal lumen using in-vitro methodologies.

Methods

Two miconazole chemical forms (free base and nitrate salt) and three clopidogrel chemical forms (bisulfate, besylate and hydrochloride salts) were studied. Solubilities of miconazole forms were measured in simulated gastric fluids. Gastrointestinal transfer of the five chemical forms was evaluated by using a flow-through, three-compartmental set-up. Precipitation in duodenal compartment was evaluated by using solutions in gastric compartment.

Key findings

Solubilities in simulated gastric fluids, concentrations in duodenal compartment and solubilities in duodenal compartment indicated poorer performance of miconazole nitrate vs. miconazole free base in upper gastrointestinal lumen. In line with the low crystallization tendency of free base, duodenal precipitation of miconazole from a free base solution was limited. Concentrations in duodenal compartment indicated that counterion identity does not affect the performance of clopidogrel; precipitation in duodenal compartment was extensive in all cases.

Conclusions

Miconazole data indicate that salts may adversely affect performance of immediate release dosage forms of weak bases. In line with existing in-vivo data, clopidogrel data indicate that counterion identity is unimportant for the performance of clopidogrel salts in upper intestinal lumen.
Risk assessment for extending the Biopharmaceutics Classification System-based biowaiver of immediate release dosage forms of fluconazole in adults to the paediatric population
Authors: Charoo Naseem A , Cristofoletti Rodrigo , Dressman Jennifer B
Published: April 2015

Objectives

The paediatric population undergoes developmental changes in gastric pH, gastric emptying, intestinal transit time, membrane permeability, protein binding, body water, distribution and metabolism. It is widely recognised that changes in these parameters may result in an alteration of the plasma profile and thus in key bioequivalence parameters such as Cmax (maximum plasma concentration of drug) and area under the plasma concentration vs time profile curve. The aim of this work is to assess the risk of extending the biowaiver for immediate release dosage formulations of fluconazole from the adult to the paediatric population.

Methods and key findings

Fluconazole exhibits good solubility and very rapid dissolution characteristics in various pH media. The absorption of fluconazole in children is known to be complete (over 90%) and not impaired by elevated pH, which is prevalent during the early days of life. Dose numbers calculated using body surface area are less than 1. Therefore, the risk to drug absorption due to differences in gastric pH, gastric emptying, intestinal transit, membrane permeability and metabolising enzymes between adults and children is considered low.

Conclusions

Thus, it can be safely concluded that fluconazole meets highly soluble and highly permeable criteria in the paediatric population and can be allocated to class 1 of the Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS) for this population as well as in adults. Additionally, fluconazole has an excellent safety profile in children, similar to that in adults. The BCS-based biowaiver claimed in adults can be safely extended to the paediatric population provided that the requirements in excipient selection and dissolution profile comparison using BCS-based dissolution conditions as stated in the biowaiver monograph for fluconazole immediate release dosage forms in adults are fulfilled.
Employees' Innovative Behavior in Social Context: A Closer Examination of the Role of Organizational Care
Authors: Bammens Yannick P.M.
Published: April 2015

A substantial body of research has examined the antecedents of innovation in organizational settings, but our current understanding of how social aspects of the work environment influence the innovative behavior of employees remains underdeveloped. One of these social aspects connected to the theme of “doing well by doing good” concerns organizational care, with scholars examining how actions centered on promoting employee well‐being may result in pro‐organizational outcomes. The purpose of this study is to present a conceptual analysis of the intricate relationship between organizational care and employees' innovative behavior by detailing key mediating mechanisms and conditional factors. This research will combine insights from multiple theories and literatures, most notably self‐determination theory, social exchange theory, and the literatures on organizational care, work motivation, and innovation. The proposed multilevel model clarifies how organizational care affects the creative, complex, and mundane elements of employees' innovative behavior through its effect on the motivational constructs of intrinsic motivation, identified motivation, and introjected obligation feelings, respectively. Moreover, the model highlights the potential dark sides of organizational care that managers must consider when designing and implementing caring policies and practices. Specifically, it clarifies how the effect of organizational care on employees' innovative behavior may depend on their subjective perceptions of care intrusiveness and care insincerity. As such, this study responds to calls for rich and nuanced conceptual research in the innovation field, especially concerning the role of employees' social work environment in motivating their innovative behavior. Important theoretical and practical implications of this conceptual analysis will be discussed, and valuable directions for future research will be outlined.