bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Noise Momentum Around the World
Authors: Cai Charlie X. , Faff Robert , Shin Yongcheol
Published: March 2017

We argue that arbitrageurs will strategically limit their initial investment in an arbitrage opportunity in anticipation of further mispricing caused by the deepening of noise traders' misperceptions. Such ‘noise momentum’ is an important determinant of the overall arbitrage process. We design an empirical strategy to capture noise momentum in a two‐period generalized error correction model. Applying it to a wide range of international spot‐futures market pairs, we document pervasive evidence of noise momentum around the world.
Diagnosis of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease is enhanced by adding oesophageal histology and excluding epigastric pain
Authors: Vakil N. , Vieth M. , Wernersson B. , Wissmar J. , Dent J.
Published: March 2017

Background

The diagnosis of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in clinical practice is limited by the sensitivity and specificity of symptoms and diagnostic testing.

Aim

To determine if adding histology as a criterion and excluding patients with epigastric pain enhances the diagnosis for GERD.

Methods

Patients with frequent upper gastrointestinal symptoms who had not taken a proton pump inhibitor in the previous 2 months and who had evaluable distal oesophageal biopsies were included (Diamond study: NCT00291746). Epithelial hyperplasia was identified when total epithelial thickness was at least 430 μm. Investigation‐based GERD criteria were: presence of erosive oesophagitis, pathological oesophageal acid exposure and/or positive symptom–acid association probability. Symptoms were assessed using the Reflux Disease Questionnaire and a pre‐specified checklist.

Results

Overall, 127 (55%) of the 231 included patients met investigation‐based GERD criteria and 195 (84%) met symptom‐based criteria. Epithelial hyperplasia was present in 89 individuals, of whom 61 (69%) met investigation‐based criteria and 83 (93%) met symptom‐based criteria. Adding epithelial hyperplasia as a criterion increased the number of patients diagnosed with GERD on investigation by 28 [12%; number needed to diagnose (NND): 8], to 155 (67%). The proportion of patients with a symptom‐based GERD diagnosis who met investigation‐based criteria including epithelial hyperplasia was significantly greater when concomitant epigastric pain was absent than when it was present (P < 0.05; NND: 8).

Conclusions

Histology increases diagnosis of GERD and should be performed when clinical suspicion is high and endoscopy is negative. Excluding patients with epigastric pain enhances sensitivity for the diagnosis of GERD.
‘The will to empower’: reworking governmentality in the museum
Authors: Beel David E
Published: March 2017

A number of geographers have sought to develop the museum as a space ripe for geographical enquiry and to comprehend the positioning of the museum. This paper aims to contribute to this burgeoning field of museum geography in order to consider the ways in which museum spaces rework notions of governmentality. First, this paper seeks to comprehend how museums (specifically municipal museums) are positioned within processes of governance and how, as a state actor, they develop a form of soft disciplinary power. Second, the paper follows such a strategy, as it traces the pathways taken by participants involved in a community engagement project based at GoMA (Gallery of Modern Art, Glasgow) in Glasgow. The project engaged a group of adult learners in a variety of cultural and arts activities. This allowed the group to explore a series of issues in contemporary art and it engaged them in different forms of creative practice. The community engagement work sought to improve their confidence and aspirations as well as to expand their creative abilities.
Effects of a protected inclusion of organic acids and essential oils as antibiotic growth promoter alternative on growth performance, intestinal morphology and gut microflora in broilers
Authors: Liu Yanli , Yang Xin , Xin Hongliang , Chen Si , Yang Chengbo , Duan Yulan , Yang Xiaojun
Published: March 2017

This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of protected essential oils and organic acids mixture on poultry feeding. A total of 450 1‐day‐old Cobb 500 chicks were randomly allotted into three treatments with six replicates. Birds were offered a basal diet (C), basal diet with 0.15 g/kg enramycin premix (A) and basal diet with 0.30 g/kg protected essential oils and organic acids mixture product (P). The results showed that protected essential oils and organic acids mixture supplementation reduced average daily feed intake and ratio of feed to gain (F/G) at 22–42 days of age, and F/G during 1–42 days of age also declined (P < 0.05). Product supplementation improved spleen index, villus height and crypt depth of the jejunum at 42 days when compared with the control (P < 0.05). In addition, secretory immunoglobulin A level of ileal mucosa and trypsin and chymotrypsin activities of intestinal tract were higher in the P treatment. Bacterial sequence analysis of the intestinal tract revealed that protected essential oils and organic acids mixture supplementation changed gut microflora mainly in Lactobacillus. These data suggested that dietary mixture of organic acids and essential oils addition could be used in the poultry industry as an antibiotic growth promoter alternative.
Standardized total tract digestibility of phosphorus in various inorganic phosphates fed to growing pigs
Authors: Kwon Woong Bi , Kim Beob Gyun
Published: March 2017

An experiment was conducted to determine the standardized total tract digestibility (STTD) of phosphorus (P) in five sources of inorganic phosphate fed to growing pigs, including dicalcium phosphate (DCP), monodicalcium phosphate (MDCP), monocalcium phosphate (MCP), tricalcium phosphate (TCP) and monosodium phosphate (MSP, reagent grade). Six barrows (42.4 ± 1.1 kg) individually housed in metabolism crates were allotted to a 6 × 6 Latin square design with six dietary treatments and six periods. Each experimental period consisted of a 4 day adaptation period and a 5 day collection period. The five experimental diets contained 0.24 to 0.34% of P from each inorganic phosphate as a sole source of P. A P‐free diet was also prepared to estimate the basal endogenous loss of P. The STTD of P in MSP (94.9%) was not different from the STTD of P in MCP (93.0%), but was greater (P < 0.05) than that in DCP, MDCP and TCP (87.0, 86.5 and 71.3%, respectively). In conclusion, digestibility of P in reagent‐grade MSP was greater than that in feed‐grade inorganic phosphates such as DCP, MDCP and TCP, and digestibility of P in DCP and MDCP was greater than that in the TCP.
Functional morphology of the male reproductive system in Callichirus major (Crustacea: Decapoda: Axiidea): Evidence of oocytes in the gonad
Authors: Souza Tugstênio L. , Braga Adriane A. , López‐Greco Laura S. , Nunes Erika T.
Published: March 2017

Callichirus major inhabits the intertidal region of marine ecosystems and it is frequently used as live bait for fishing. This study aimed to describe the functional anatomy of the male reproductive system by microscopic techniques. The animals were collected along the Corujão beach, Piuma—ES, Brazil, and, in laboratory, the males were classified into two phases: immature (IM) and developed (DE) based on the macroscopic characteristics of the gonads. The gonad and vas deferens were dissected for histological routine and histochemical tests. Histologically, it was noted that in both phases, the more distal region of gonads has ovarian characteristics, showing developing oocytes. Also, different male germ cells were identified: spermatogonium (SPG), spermatocytes I and II (SPTCI, SPTCII), initial and final spermatid (IS, FS) and sperm (SPZ). Accessory cells with spherical or pyramidal nuclei were also present inside the testicular lobules. According to the vas deferens structure, three regions can be characterized: proximal (PVD), middle (MVD) and distal (DVD). In the lumen of the vas deferens, a spermatophoric matrix highly reactive for histochemical tests was observed. The presence of female germ cells in males suggests the occurrence of intersexuality or hermaphroditism in this species.
Two pathways to self‐forgiveness: A hedonic path via self‐compassion and a eudaimonic path via the reaffirmation of violated values
Authors: Woodyatt Lydia , Wenzel Michael , Ferber Matthew
Published: March 2017

Self‐forgiveness is often measured as a hedonic end‐state, as the presence of positive affect and the absence of negative affect towards the self following a wrongdoing. However, self‐forgiveness is also referred to as a difficult process. Self‐forgiveness as a process of accepting responsibility and working through one's wrongdoing is a substantially un‐hedonic – it is likely to be uncomfortable and at times painful. In this study, we examine two pathways to self‐forgiveness: a hedonic focused pathway (via self‐compassion) and a eudaimonic pathway (via reaffirmation of transgressed values). Across two studies, the data suggest that following interpersonal transgressions, self‐compassion reduces self‐punitiveness and increases end‐state self‐forgiveness (Study 1) via a reduction in perceived stigma (Study 2). In contrast, value reaffirmation increases the process of genuine self‐forgiveness and reduces defensiveness (Study 1) via increased concern for shared group values (Study 2), in turn increasing desire to reconcile (Study 1), and amend‐making and end‐state self‐forgiveness 1 week following the intervention (Study 2). The results suggest that both pathways can lead to self‐forgiveness; however, following a transgression, self‐forgiveness via a eudaimonic pathway offers greater promise for meeting the needs of both offenders and victims.
Establishing the pathways and indications for performing isotope bone scans in newly diagnosed intermediate‐risk localised prostate cancer – results from a large contemporaneous cohort
Authors: KandaSwamy Gokul V. , Bennett Adam , Narahari Krishna , Hughes Owen , Rees John , Kynaston Howard
Published: March 2017

Objective

To establish the pattern of isotope bone scan (BS) positivity in a large contemporaneous cohort of patients with newly diagnosed localised prostate cancer and compare with the European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines, as imaging guidelines and clinical practice for using BS to stage newly diagnosed patients with intermediate‐risk localised prostate cancer are not uniform in the literature.

Patients and Methods

All patients with newly diagnosed prostate cancer were discussed in a specialist multidisciplinary team meeting and were prospectively entered in a database. Patients were categorised based on D'Amico classification. All intermediate‐ and high‐risk patients had pelvic magnetic resonance imaging and BS unless contraindicated. The BS positivity in each group was analysed and the negative predictive value (NPV) calculated. A cohort of 2720 patients between 2002 and 2015 was retrospectively analysed.

Results

Of 976 patients in the D'Amico intermediate‐risk category, 99 had primary Gleason pattern 4. Only one of the 99 patients had a positive BS and there were no positive BS in patients with Gleason primary pattern 3 in the intermediate‐risk category. On subgroup analysis, based on prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level and Gleason grade alone, the BS‐positivity rate in patients with a PSA level of <20 ng/mL and Gleason primary pattern 4 vs 3 was 6% and 0%, respectively, resulting in 100% NPV for a positive BS with Gleason primary pattern 3 and a PSA level of <20 ng/mL. The importance of clinical T stage (cT) was also noted, as eight of 146 patients had positive BS, who were high risk on cT stage, with a PSA level of <20 ng/mL and Gleason score <8. All eight patients had Gleason primary pattern 4. By limiting BS to the population at risk (all high‐risk + intermediate‐risk with primary pattern 4), 68 BS per year could have been avoided in a single centre. A limitation was that there was no histological confirmation of bony metastases. Extending the BS recommendation considering the new Gleason Grade Grouping is discussed.

Conclusion

This study confirms that a staging BS can be safely avoided in patients with intermediate‐risk prostate cancer with Gleason primary pattern 3 and to limit performing BS in all high‐risk prostate cancer and in the intermediate‐risk group when the primary Gleason pattern is 4, thereby reinforcing the current recommendations of the EAU guidelines.
Constitutive androstane receptor regulates the intestinal mucosal response to injury
Authors: Hudson Grace M , Flannigan Kyle L , Erickson Sarah L , Vicentini Fernando A , Zamponi Alexandra , Hirota Christina L , Alston Laurie , Altier Christophe , Ghosh Subrata , Rioux Kevin P , Mani Sridhar , Chang Thomas K , Hirota Simon A
Published: March 2017

Background and Purpose

The pathogenesis of the inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), comprising Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), involves aberrant interactions between a genetically susceptible individual, their microbiota and environmental factors. Alterations in xenobiotic receptor expression and function are associated with increased risk for IBD. Here, we have assessed the role of the constitutive androstane receptor (CAR), a xenobiotic receptor closely related to the pregnane X receptor, in the regulation of intestinal mucosal homeostasis.

Experimental Approach

CAR expression was assessed in intestinal mucosal biopsies obtained from CD and UC patients, and in C57/Bl6 mice exposed to dextran sulphate sodium (DSS; 3.5% w/v in drinking water) to evoke intestinal inflammation and tissue damage. CAR‐deficient mice were exposed to DSS and mucosal healing assessed. Modulation of wound healing by CAR was assessed in vitro. The therapeutic potential of CAR activation was evaluated, using 3,3′,5,5′‐tetrachloro‐1,4‐bis(pyridyloxy)benzene (TCPOBOP), a selective rodent CAR agonist.

Key Results

CAR expression was reduced in CD and UC samples, compared with expression in healthy controls. This was reproduced in our DSS studies, where CAR expression was reduced in colitic mice. CAR‐deficient mice exhibited reduced healing following DSS exposure. In vitro, CAR activation accelerated intestinal epithelial wound healing by enhancing cell migration. Lastly, treating mice with TCPOBOP, following induction of colitis, enhanced mucosal healing.

Conclusion and Implications

Our results support the notion that xenobiotic sensing is altered during intestinal inflammation, and suggest that CAR activation may prove effective in enhancing mucosal healing in patients with IBD.
D‐β‐hydroxybutyrate promotes functional recovery and relieves pain hypersensitivity in mice with spinal cord injury
Authors: Qian Jiao , Zhu Wenjun , Lu Ming , Ni Bin , Yang Jun
Published: March 2017

Background and Purpose

Spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to severe motor and sensory dysfunction and significantly reduces the quality of life. The aim of the present work was to investigate the effect of administration of exogenous D‐β‐hydroxybutyrate (DBHB) on functional recovery and neuropathic pain in spinal cord‐injured mice.

Experimental Approach

Mice were given a moderate‐severe thoracic spinal contusion injury at the T9–10 level and treated with exogenous DBHB.

Key Results

Treatment of SCI mice with DBHB markedly improved locomotor function and relieved SCI‐induced hypersensitivities to mechanical and thermal stimulation. DBHB treatment partly prevented the SCI‐induced loss of motor neurons and suppressed microglial and glial activation. DBHB treatment enhanced histone acetylation and up‐regulated expression of the transcription factor FOXO3a, catalase and SOD2 in injured region of SCI mice. DBHB treatment suppressed SCI‐induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation and reduced protein expression of IL‐1β and IL‐18. In addition, DBHB treatment improved mitochondrial function and abated oxidative stress following SCI.

Conclusions and Implications

DBHB promoted functional recovery and relieved pain hypersensitivity in mice with SCI, possibly through inhibition of histone deacetylation and NLRP3 inflammasome activation and preservation of mitochondrial function. DBHB could thus be envisaged as a potential use of interventions for SCI but remains to be tested in humans.
Calcium channel modulation as a target in chronic pain control
Authors: Patel Ryan , Montagut‐Bordas Carlota , Dickenson Anthony H
Published: March 2017

Neuropathic pain remains poorly treated for large numbers of patients, and little progress has been made in developing novel classes of analgesics. To redress this issue, ziconotide (Prialt™) was developed and approved as a first‐in‐class synthetic version of ω‐conotoxin MVIIA, a peptide blocker of Cav2.2 channels. Unfortunately, the impracticalities of intrathecal delivery, low therapeutic index and severe neurological side effects associated with ziconotide have restricted its use to exceptional circumstances. Ziconotide exhibits no state or use‐dependent block of Cav2.2 channels; activation state‐dependent blockers were hypothesized to circumvent the side effects of state‐independent blockers by selectively targeting high‐frequency firing of nociceptive neurones in chronic pain states, thus alleviating aberrant pain but not affecting normal sensory transduction. Unfortunately, numerous drugs, including state‐dependent calcium channel blockers, have displayed efficacy in preclinical models but have subsequently been disappointing in clinical trials. In recent years, it has become more widely acknowledged that trans‐aetiological sensory profiles exist amongst chronic pain patients and may indicate similar underlying mechanisms and drug sensitivities. Heterogeneity amongst patients, a reliance on stimulus‐evoked endpoints in preclinical studies and a failure to utilize translatable endpoints, all are likely to have contributed to negative clinical trial results. We provide an overview of how electrophysiological and operant‐based assays provide insight into sensory and affective aspects of pain in animal models and how these may relate to chronic pain patients in order to improve the bench‐to‐bedside translation of calcium channel modulators.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Recent Advances in Targeting Ion Channels to Treat Chronic Pain. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v175.12/issuetoc
Ethnic, Familial, and Religious Identity of Roma Adolescents in Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Kosovo, and Romania in Relation to Their Level of Well‐Being
Authors: Dimitrova Radosveta , van de Vijver Fons J. R. , Taušová Jitka , Chasiotis Athanasios , Bender Michael , Buzea Carmen , Uka Fitim , Tair Ergyul
Published: March 2017

This study examines ethnic, national, familial, and religious identity and well‐being of 632 Roma minority and 589 majority adolescents (age: M = 15.98 years, SD = 1.34) in Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Kosovo, and Romania. Results indicated that Roma showed lower endorsement of national identity but stronger religious identity than their majority counterparts. Path models showed positive associations of familial and religious identities with well‐being, whereas Roma identity was negatively associated with well‐being, particularly for Roma in Bulgaria and Kosovo (countries with a less active policy toward improving conditions of Roma). In the latter countries, Roma ethnic identity is less relevant and weakly associated with psychological well‐being of youth.
Mutations in ERGIC1 cause Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita, neuropathic type
Authors: Reinstein E. , Drasinover V. , Lotan R. , Gal‐Tanamy M. , Bolocan Nachman I. , Eyal E. , Jaber L. , Magal N. , Shohat M.
Published: March 2017

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) is heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by non‐progressive joint contractures from birth that involve more than 1 part of the body. There are various etiologies for AMC including genetic and environmental depends on the specific type, however, for most types, the cause is not fully understood. We previously reported large Israeli Arab kindred consisting of 16 patients affected with AMC neuropathic type, and mapped the locus to a 5.5 cM interval on chromosome 5qter. Using whole exome sequencing, we have now identified homozygous pathogenic variant in the
ERGIC1 gene within the previously defined linked region. ERGIC1 encodes a cycling membrane protein which has a possible role in transport between endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi. We further show that this mutation was absent in more than 200 samples of healthy unrelated individuals of the Israeli Arab population. Thus, our findings expand the spectrum of hereditary AMC and suggest that abnormalities in protein trafficking may underlie AMC‐related disorders.
Implant‐supported mandibular removable partial dentures: Functional, clinical and radiographical parameters in relation to implant position
Authors: Jensen Charlotte , Speksnijder Caroline M. , Raghoebar Gerry M. , Kerdijk Wouter , Meijer Henny J. A. , Cune Marco S.
Published: March 2017

Background

Patients with a Kennedy class I situation often encounter problems with their removable partial denture (RPD).

Purpose

To assess the functional benefits of implant support to RPDs, the clinical performance of the implants and teeth and to determine the most favorable implant position: the premolar (PM) or molar (M) region.

Materials and methods

Thirty subjects received 2 PM and 2 M implants. A new RPD was made. Implant support was provided 3 months later. In a cross‐over model, randomly, 2 implants (PM or M) supported the RPD during 3 months. Masticatory performance was assessed using the mixing ability index (MAI). Clinical and radiographic parameters were assessed. Non‐parametric statistical analysis for related samples and post hoc comparisons were performed.

Results

Masticatory performance differed significantly between the stages of treatment (P < .001). MAI‐scores improved with implant support although the implant position had no significant effect. No complications to the implants or RPD were observed and clinical and radiographical parameters for both implants and teeth were favorable. Higher scores for bleeding on probing were seen for molar implants.

Conclusions

Implant support to a Kennedy class I RPD significantly improves masticatory function, regardless of implant position. No major clinical problems were observed.
Roles of NG2‐glia in ischemic stroke
Authors: Song Fei‐Er , Huang Jia‐Lv , Lin Si‐Han , Wang Shuo , Ma Guo‐Fen , Tong Xiao‐Ping
Published: March 2017

Recent studies have shown that a widely distributed class of glial cells, termed NG2‐glia, engages in rapid signaling with surrounding neurons through direct synaptic contacts in the developing and mature central nervous system (CNS). This unique glial cell group has a typical function of proliferating and differentiating into oligodendrocytes during early development of the brain, which is crucial to axon myelin formation. Therefore, NG2‐glia are also called oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs). In vitro and in vivo studies reveal that NG2‐glia expressing receptors and ion channels demonstrate functional significance for rapid signaling with neuronal synapses and modulation of neuronal activities in both physiological and pathological conditions. Although it is well known that NG2‐glia play an important role in demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis, little is known about how NG2‐glia or OPCs impact neurons and brain function following ischemic injury. This review summarizes recent progress on the roles of NG2‐glia in ischemic stroke and illustrates new approaches for targeting NG2‐glia in the brain to treat this disease.
Psychiatric diagnoses and medication treatment among patients presenting for paediatric weight management: associations with adiposity, aerobic fitness and cardiometabolic health
Authors: Tucker J. M. , Cadieux A. , Culver K. , Smith L. , Stratbucker W.
Published: March 2017

We compared anthropometry, cardiometabolic risk and aerobic fitness among obese youth in weight management who were diagnosed with one or more psychiatric disorders (PD), with (PD+M) or without (PD−M) a prescribed psychotropic medication with those with no PD (NPD). Physical measures were evaluated at baseline, and psychiatric diagnoses and related medications were identified from medical records. Of 99 patients 64 (65%) had a diagnosed PD, and of those, 23 (36%) had a related medication (PD+M). Compared to NPD, PD−M had a higher body mass index (BMI) (P = 0.003), BMI z‐score (P = 0.015), percent body fat (P = 0.005) and waist circumference (P < 0.001), after adjusting for age, but PD+M did not. Cardiometabolic risk did not differ between groups, but aerobic fitness was lower among PD−M (P = 0.001) and PD+M (P = 0.008) compared to NPD. Obese youth in weight management exhibit high rates of psychiatric diagnoses that are associated with lower fitness and higher adiposity and may impact treatment efficacy.
A model linking video gaming, sleep quality, sweet drinks consumption and obesity among children and youth
Authors: Turel O. , Romashkin A. , Morrison K. M.
Published: March 2017

There is a growing need to curb paediatric obesity. The aim of this study is to untangle associations between video‐game‐use attributes and obesity as a first step towards identifying and examining possible interventions. Cross‐sectional time‐lagged cohort study was employed using parent–child surveys (t1) and objective physical activity and physiological measures (t2) from 125 children/adolescents (mean age = 13.06, 9–17‐year‐olds) who play video games, recruited from two clinics at a Canadian academic children's hospital. Structural equation modelling and analysis of covariance were employed for inference. The results of the study are as follows: (i) self‐reported video‐game play duration in the 4‐h window before bedtime is related to greater abdominal adiposity (waist‐to‐height ratio) and this association may be mediated through reduced sleep quality (measured with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index); and (ii) self‐reported average video‐game session duration is associated with greater abdominal adiposity and this association may be mediated through higher self‐reported sweet drinks consumption while playing video games and reduced sleep quality. Video‐game play duration in the 4‐h window before bedtime, typical video‐game session duration, sweet drinks consumption while playing video games and poor sleep quality have aversive associations with abdominal adiposity. Paediatricians and researchers should further explore how these factors can be altered through behavioural or pharmacological interventions as a means to reduce paediatric obesity.
Altered defaecatory behaviour and faecal incontinence in a video‐tracked animal model of pudendal neuropathy
Authors: Devane L. A. , Lucking E. , Evers J. , Buffini M. , Scott S. M. , Knowles C. H. , O'Connell P. R. , Jones J. F. X.
Published: March 2017

Aim

The aim was to develop a behavioural animal model of faecal continence and assess the effect of retro‐uterine balloon inflation (RBI) injury. RBI in the rat causes pudendal neuropathy, a risk factor for obstetric related faecal incontinence in humans.

Method

Video‐tracking of healthy rats (n = 12) in a cage containing a latrine box was used to monitor their defaecatory behaviour index (DBI) over 2 weeks. The DBI (range 0–1) was devised by dividing the defaecation rate (pellets per hour) outside the latrine by that of the whole cage. A score of 0 indicates all pellets were deposited in the latrine. Subsequently, the effects of RBI (n = 19), sham surgery (n = 4) and colostomy (n = 2) were determined by monitoring the DBI for 2 weeks preoperatively and 3 weeks postoperatively.

Results

The DBI for healthy rats was 0.1 ± 0.03 with no significant change over 2 weeks (P = 0.71). In the RBI group, 13 of 19 rats (68%) showed no significant change in DBI postoperatively (0.08 ±  −0.05 vs 0.11 ±  −0.07) while in six rats the DBI increased from 0.16 ±  −0.09 to 0.46 ± 0.23. The negative control, sham surgery, did not significantly affect the DBI (0.09 ± 0.06 vs 0.08 ± 0.04, P = 0.14). The positive control, colostomy, increased the DBI from 0.26 ± 0.03 to 0.86 ± 0.08.

Conclusions

This is the first study showing a quantifiable change in defaecatory behaviour following injury in an animal model. This model of pudendal neuropathy affects continence in 32% of rats and provides a basis for research on interventions for incontinence.
MicroRNA‐802 plays a tumour suppressive role in tongue squamous cell carcinoma through directly targeting MAP2K4
Authors: Wu Xiaozhen , Gong Zuode , Sun Lanying , Ma Long , Wang Qibao
Published: March 2017

Objectives

Tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) is the most common oral tumours. MicroRNAs play crucial roles in many cell processes including cell viability, development, apoptosis, migration and invasion. The role of miR‐802 in the TSCC is still unknown.

Materials and methods

The miR‐802 expression in TSCC tissues and cell lines was determined by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. CCK‐8 assay was performed to measure the cell viability, while the cell invasion assay was used to determine the cell invasion. Dual‐luciferase reporter and western blot were used to confirm the potential target gene of miR‐802.

Results

In our study, we demonstrated that miR‐802 expression was downregulated in TSCC tissues and cell lines. Elevated expression of miR‐802 suppressed the TSCC cell viability and invasion. Moreover, enforced expression of miR‐802 increased the expression of E‐cadherin, while suppressed the expression of N‐cadherin, Snail and Vimentin in the TSCC cell. In addition, we identified the mitogen‐activated protein kinase 4 (MAP2K4) as a direct target gene of miR‐802 in the TSCC cell. We also demonstrated that the expression of MAP2K4 was higher in the TSCC tissues than that in the adjacent normal tissues. Furthermore, the expression level of MAP2K4 was inversely associated with the expression of miR‐802 in TSCC tissues. We also demonstrated that the MAP2K4 expression was upregulated in TSCC cell lines. Elevated expression of miR‐802 inhibited TSCC cell viability and invasion through inhibiting MAP2K4 expression.

Conclusions

Our data revealed that miR‐802 played as a tumour suppressor gene and might act as a therapeutic target in TSCC patients.
Self‐limiting non‐medical pharmaceutical opioid use among young people in Sydney, Australia: An exploratory study
Authors: Dertadian George C. , Dixon Thomas C. , Iversen Jennifer , Maher Lisa
Published: March 2017

Introduction and Aims

Indicators suggest an escalation in opioid use globally, with recent HIV outbreaks linked to non‐medical pharmaceutical opioid (NMPO) use. Little is known about how young Australians engage in NMPO use.

Design and Methods

During 2015, we conducted qualitative interviews with young people (16–29 years) who reported oral NMPO use at least twice in the past 90 days. The study included a sample of injecting (n = 14) and oral (n = 22) users. This paper focuses on the oral user group.

Results

Most participants grew up in affluent areas of Sydney, reported few health problems, rarely accessed health or welfare services and had limited contact with police. NMPO use was part of a repertoire of drug use involving: (i) use to come down from stimulants; (ii) use in conjunction with cannabis and alcohol; and (iii) use by itself. Participants reported limiting their use in order to avoid stigma and dependence.

Discussion and Conclusions

Results suggest culture of self‐limiting NMPO use characterised by stable housing, disposable income and intimate friendship networks. Despite the adverse health outcomes observed in other settings, our data suggest that the patterns and meanings of NMPO use observed in this small sample may help explain the limited nature of problematic use among young Australians to date. Findings indicate a need for epidemiological data, including longitudinal data, to assess possible demographic shifts in NMPO use in Australia, and to address risk factors for dependence and transitions to injecting and heroin use in this population. [Dertadian GC, Dixon TC, Iversen J, Maher L. Self‐limiting non‐medical pharmaceutical opioid use among young people in Sydney, Australia: An exploratory study. Drug Alcohol Rev 2017;00:000‐000]
A prospective study of the substance use and mental health outcomes of young adult former and current cannabis users
Authors: Silins Edmund , Swift Wendy , Slade Tim , Toson Barbara , Rodgers Bryan , Hutchinson Delyse M.
Published: March 2017

Introduction and Aims

The extent to which young adult former cannabis users fare better than infrequent users is unclear. We investigated the association between cannabis use status at age 23 and substance use and mental health outcomes at age 27.

Design and Methods

Data were from the 20+ year cohort of the PATH Through Life Study. Lifetime cannabis users (n = 1410) at age 23 were classified as former/occasional/regular users. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate the association between cannabis use status at age 23 and six outcomes assessed at age 27.

Results

Compared with occasional cannabis users: (i) former users had odds of subsequent tobacco use [odds ratio (OR) = 0.67, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.52–0.85], illicit drug use (cannabis, OR = 0.22, 95% CI 0.17–0.28; other illicit drugs, OR = 0.29, 95% CI 0.22–0.39) and mental health impairment (OR = 0.71, 95% CI 0.55–0.92) that were 29–78% lower; and (ii) regular users had odds of subsequent frequent alcohol use (OR = 2.34, 95% CI 0.67–1.34), tobacco use (OR = 3.67, 95% CI 2.54–5.30), cannabis use (OR = 11.73, 95% CI 6.81–20.21) and dependence symptoms (OR = 12.60, 95% CI 8.38–18.94), and other illicit drug use (OR = 2.95, 95% CI 2.07–4.21) that were 2–13 times greater. Associations attenuated after covariate adjustment, and most remained significant.

Discussion and Conclusions

Clear associations exist between cannabis use status in young adulthood and subsequent mental health and substance use. While early intervention remains important to prevent regular cannabis use and the associated harms, experimentation with cannabis use in the years leading into young adulthood may not necessarily determine an immutable pathway to mental health problems and illicit substance use. [Silins E, Swift W, Slade T, Toson B, Rodgers B, Hutchinson DM. A prospective study of the substance use and mental health outcomes of young adult former and current cannabis users. Drug Alcohol Rev 2017;00:000‐000]
Current status of interventional endoscopic ultrasound
Authors: Ryozawa Shomei , Fujita Naotaka , Irisawa Atsushi , Hirooka Yoshiki , Mine Tetsuya
Published: March 2017

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is being used increasingly in the management of pancreatic fluid collection, biliary and pancreatic duct drainage in cases of failed endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, drainage of the gallbladder, and other conditions. The role of interventional EUS is rapidly expanding and new interventions are continuously emerging. The development of devices could be a major breakthrough in the field of interventional EUS. New devices would enable the expansion of its role even further and prompt its widespread use in clinical practice. This review focuses on the current status of interventional EUS, especially highlighting the topics that are presently drawing the interest of endoscopists.
The efficacy of interventions to increase physical activity participation of children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Reedman Sarah , Boyd Roslyn N , Sakzewski Leanne
Published: March 2017

Aim

To determine efficacy of therapy and behaviour change interventions to increase the level of participation in leisure‐time physical activities (LTPAs) and habitual physical activity in children and young people with cerebral palsy.

Method

Five databases were systematically searched. Included studies were randomized or comparison designs. Methodological quality was assessed with a modified Downs and Black Scale. Quantitative analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3 (The Nordic Cochrane Centre, The Cochrane Collaboration, Copenhagen, Denmark). Intervention components and behaviour change constructs were mapped against (1) the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) and (2) the Theoretical Domains Framework.

Results

Searches yielded 2487 unique articles. Eight studies (nine articles) were included. Interventions included physical training, activity level training, combined physical training and behaviour change therapy, online behaviour change modules, and context‐focused therapy. Study quality varied from moderate to high. There was a small, significant effect of physical activity intervention compared with passive usual care on level of habitual physical activity, of approximately 1000 additional steps per day (standardized mean difference 0.34, 95% confidence interval 0.03–0.66, p=0.030). There was no significant effect on LTPA participation (standardized mean difference 0.40, 95% confidence interval −0.40 to 1.19, p=0.330).

Interpretation

Therapy and behaviour change interventions have the potential to increase LTPA participation of children and young people with cerebral palsy, although there is a need to depart from impairment‐focused approaches. Inappropriate selection of outcomes and inadequate reporting of complex interventions are barriers to progress in this field.
Ataxia‐telangiectasia: recommendations for multidisciplinary treatment
Authors: van Os Nienke J H , Haaxma Charlotte A , van der Flier Michiel , Merkus Peter J F M , van Deuren Marcel , de Groot Imelda J M , Loeffen Jan , van de Warrenburg Bart P C , Willemsen Michèl A A P ,   The A‐T Study Group
Published: March 2017

Ataxia‐telangiectasia is a rare, neurodegenerative, and multisystem disease, characterized by cerebellar ataxia, oculocutaneous telangiectasia, immunodeficiency, progressive respiratory failure, and an increased risk of malignancies. It demands specialized care tailored to the individual patient's needs. Besides the classic ataxia‐telangiectasia phenotype, a variant phenotype exists with partly overlapping but some distinctive disease characteristics. This guideline summarizes frequently encountered medical problems in the disease course of patients with classic and variant ataxia‐telangiectasia, in the domains of neurology, immunology and infectious diseases, pulmonology, anaesthetic and perioperative risk, oncology, endocrinology, and nutrition. Furthermore, it provides a practical guide with evidence‐ and expert‐based recommendations for the follow‐up and treatment of all these different clinical topics.
Decreased insulin‐stimulated brown adipose tissue glucose uptake after short‐term exercise training in healthy middle‐aged men
Authors: Motiani Piryanka , Virtanen Kirsi A. , Motiani Kumail K. , Eskelinen Joonas J. , Middelbeek Roeland J. , Goodyear Laurie J. , Savolainen Anna M. , Kemppainen Jukka , Jensen Jørgen , Din Mueez U. , Saunavaara Virva , Parkkola Riitta , Löyttyniemi Eliisa , Knuuti Juhani , Nuutila Pirjo , Kalliokoski Kari K. , Hannukainen Jarna C.
Published: March 2017

Aims

To test the hypothesis that high‐intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate‐intensity continuous training (MICT) improve brown adipose tissue (BAT) insulin sensitivity.

Participants and methods

Healthy middle‐aged men (n = 18, age 47 years [95% confidence interval {CI} 49, 43], body mass index 25.3 kg/m2 [95% CI 24.1‐26.3], peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) 34.8 mL/kg/min [95% CI 32.1, 37.4] ) were recruited and randomized into six HIIT or MICT sessions within 2 weeks. Insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake was measured using 2‐[18F]flouro‐2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose positron‐emission tomography in BAT, skeletal muscle, and abdominal and femoral subcutaneous and visceral white adipose tissue (WAT) depots before and after the training interventions.

Results

Training improved VO2peak (P = .0005), insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake into the quadriceps femoris muscle (P = .0009) and femoral subcutaneous WAT (P = .02) but not into BAT, with no difference between the training modes. Using pre‐intervention BAT glucose uptake, we next stratified subjects into high BAT (>2.9 µmol/100 g/min; n = 6) or low BAT (<2.9 µmol/100 g/min; n = 12) groups. Interestingly, training decreased insulin‐stimulated BAT glucose uptake in the high BAT group (4.0 [2.8, 5.5] vs 2.5 [1.7, 3.6]; training*BAT, P = .02), whereas there was no effect of training in the low BAT group (1.5 [1.2, 1.9] vs 1.6 [1.2, 2.0] µmol/100 g/min). Participants in the high BAT group had lower levels of inflammatory markers compared with those in the low BAT group.

Conclusions

Participants with functionally active BAT have an improved metabolic profile compared with those with low BAT activity. Short‐term exercise training decreased insulin‐stimulated BAT glucose uptake in participants with active BAT, suggesting that training does not work as a potent stimulus for BAT activation.
Metformin as add‐on to intensive insulin therapy in type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Staels Frederik , Moyson Carolien , Mathieu Chantal
Published: March 2017

We aimed to evaluate the effect of adjuvant metformin to intensive insulin therapy in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). A 10‐year retrospective study in 2 cohorts was performed: the MET cohort (n = 181) consisted of patients with T1DM on adjuvant metformin for ≥6 months and the CTR cohort (n = 62) consisted of patients with T1DM who refused metformin (n = 25) or adhered to metformin for <6 months (n = 36). Data on glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), body mass index (BMI) and daily insulin dose were recorded yearly. A third cross‐sectional cohort, the REF cohort (n = 961), consisting of patients with T1DM not offered adjuvant metformin, was used as a reference for baseline comparison. At the study start, BMI was significantly higher and insulin doses were lower in patients in the MET cohort, while HbA1c levels were similar. In the first years of metformin therapy, small but non‐significant decreases were seen in BMI and insulin dose in patients in the MET cohort, while after 10 years no persistent effect on HbA1c, insulin dose or BMI was seen. In conclusion, although metformin may have short‐term effects on BMI and insulin dose when used as adjunct therapy in patients with T1DM, no long‐term beneficial effects were observed when patients were followed for 10 years.
Engaging decentralization in an uncertain political context: Lessons from Liberia
Authors: Krawczyk Kelly , Muhula Raymond
Published: March 2017

This study uses a Diagnostic Framework for Local Governance to evaluate the current capacity for administrative decentralization at the county level in Liberia, as well as to identify political economy challenges and opportunities surrounding decentralization. Applying the Problem‐Driven Iterative Adaptation (PDIA) framework to our findings, we offer recommendations for moving decentralization reform forward. We find strong demand for administrative decentralization among local officials, and propose that decentralization reform can be enhanced through incremental implementation that focuses on strengthening the existing structures and capacity of local administration, and through the creation of stronger accountability and participatory mechanisms. The triangulated research design includes focus group and interview data in eight Liberian counties, analyzed using NVivo Qualitative Data Analysis Software.
Vena contracta analysis by color Doppler three‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography shows geometrical differences between prolapse and pseudoprolapse in eccentric mitral regurgitation
Authors: Berdejo Javier , Shiota Maiko , Mihara Hirotsugu , Itabashi Yuji , Utsunomiya Hiroto , Shiota Takahiro
Published: March 2017

Aims

Evaluation of eccentric mitral regurgitation (MR) remains extremely difficult and the role played by its etiology, functional or degenerative, is not well understood. This study aimed to demonstrate the value of three‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3DTEE) in the evaluation of eccentric MR identifying geometric differences in the vena contracta area between functional and degenerative etiologies.

Methods and Results

We studied 61 patients with eccentric MR (30 functional and 31 degenerative). Regurgitant orifice area was determined by the two‐dimensional proximal isovelocity surface area (2DPISA) and the 3DTEE methods. The ratio between maximum and minimum lengths of the vena contracta was calculated in each patient. Effective regurgitant orifice area by the 2DPISA method was smaller than that estimated by 3DTEE (0.56±0.21 vs 0.72±0.25 cm2). A better correlation between both methods was seen in degenerative mitral regurgitation (DMR; r=.83), with a mean underestimation of 8.2% by the 2DPISA method. A much worse correlation was found in functional mitral regurgitation (FMR; r=.39), where a mean underestimation by the 2DPISA method of 29.1% was observed. There was a more elongated and curved vena contracta in FMR compared to that in DMR (length ratio: 3.4±1.0 vs 2.2±0.7, P<.0001).

Conclusion

Three‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography identifies a more elongated regurgitant orifice in eccentric FMR compared to that in eccentric DMR. This difference may explain the greater underestimation of effective regurgitant orifice area by the 2DPISA method in FMR. High‐quality 3DTEE analysis of vena contracta area would be a highly recommended alternative.
Surgical planning for a complex double‐outlet right ventricle using 3D printing
Authors: Bhatla Puneet , Tretter Justin T. , Chikkabyrappa Sathish , Chakravarti Sujata , Mosca Ralph S.
Published: March 2017

Rapid prototyping may be beneficial in properly selected cases of complex congenital heart disease, providing detailed anatomical understanding that helps to guide potential surgical and cardiac catheterization interventions. We present a case of double‐outlet right ventricle, where the decision to obtain a three‐dimensional printed model helped for better understanding of the anatomy, with the additional advantage of surgical simulation in planning the surgical approach and type of surgical repair.
Evaluation of the effect of dipping pattern in hypertensive patients on the left ventricular systolic functions by two‐dimensional strain analysis
Authors: Göksülük Hüseyin , Habibova Ulvin , Ongun Aydan , Akbulut Müge , Özyüncü Nil , Kürklü Türkan Seda Tan , Erol Cetin
Published: March 2017

Background

Nondipping blood pressure pattern carry a high risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular complications due to a higher cumulative pressure overload. We aimed to define the role of strain analysis for detecting subclinical left ventricular systolic dysfunction in recently diagnosed nondipper and dipper hypertensive patients with normal left ventricular systolic function.

Methods

Study population consisted of two groups of patients, Group 1: 45 dipper patients and Group 2: 43 nondipper patients. Global and segmental two‐dimensional longitudinal strain analysis were measured by speckle tracking method.

Results

The analysis of two‐dimensional left ventricular global longitudinal strain and strain rates showed that there was a significant difference between groups (−18.1%±3.1% for nondippers vs −20.5%±2.4% for dippers, P<.001 for global longitudinal strain and −1.2±0.2 1/s for nondippers vs −1.31±0.16 1/s for dippers, P<.001 for global longitudinal strain rate). The nighttime systolic, diastolic, and mean blood pressure measurements were significantly higher in the nondipper group. Nocturnal dipping rates were statistically different between the groups (P<.001). Interventricular septum, posterior wall thickness, relative wall thickness, left atrial dimension, left ventricular mass, and mass index were higher in the nondipper group. Multivariate analysis demonstrated left atrium size, nocturnal dipping rate, daytime mean blood pressure, and nighttime systolic, diastolic, and mean blood pressure as independent predictors of global longitudinal strain.

Conclusion

In our study, two‐dimensional speckle tracking examination showed that the left ventricular systolic function is impaired even in the subclinical period in recently diagnosed nondipper hypertensive patients with deformational analysis.