bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase may have preventive potential for varicocoele‐associated testicular damage in rats
Authors: Celik‐Ozenci C. , Kuscu N. , Gungor‐Ordueri N. E. , Tasatargil A. , Sahin P. , Durmus H.
Published: December 2016

Varicocele is ordinarily accompanied by testicular damage and male infertility. Several theories have been proposed to explain the detrimental effect of varicocele on testis tissue, including the possible effects of oxidative stress. The poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP) pathway has been established as a major downstream intracellular pathway of oxidative stress. Recently we have reported that PARP pathway has been activated in varicocele‐induced rat testicular damage model. The aim of the present study was to investigate the possible protective effect of PARP inhibition in varicocele‐associated testicular damage. Fifty male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: control, sham, varicocele‐induced, varicocele‐induced 1,5‐isoquinolinediol (ISO, a PARP inhibitor)‐treated, and ISO treated groups. The ISO‐treated rats received intraperitoneal injections of 3 mg/kg ISO daily for 13 weeks. After 13 weeks of varicocele induction, body and testes weights were investigated in all groups. Histopathology of testes were evaluated by light microscopy. Expressions of PAR, p53 and cytochrome c were detected by immunohistochemistry and cleaved PARP‐1, PAR, p53 and cytochrome c by western blot. The degree of apoptosis was determined by TUNEL. Light microscopy revealed testicular damage comprising various degrees of seminiferous tubule degeneration in varicocele‐induced rats and their testes weights decreased significantly, whereas ISO administration prevented it. Expressions of cleaved PARP‐1, PAR, cytochrome c, and p53 increased significantly in varicocele‐induced rats, whereas the level of these molecules were similar to controls in varicocele‐induced rats treated with ISO. In conclusion, increased PARP activation in testes seems to be related with testicular damage and apoptosis associated with varicocele and pharmacological inhibition of this pathway might be an effective intervention to prevent varicocele‐induced testicular injury.
Sexuality and fertility in men with hypospadias; improved outcome
Authors: Örtqvist L. , Fossum M. , Andersson M. , Nordenström A. , Frisén L. , Holmdahl G. , Nordenskjöld A.
Published: December 2016

The aim of this study was to investigate sexual function and fertility in adult men born with hypospadias. Patients born with hypospadias, age‐matched controls, and a group of circumcised men completed a questionnaire constructed to reflect their psychosexual situation and fertility. Core gender identity, sexual orientation, and gender role behavior was also assessed. 167 patients [63% distal, 24% mid shaft and 13% proximal, mean age 34 (19–54) years], 169 controls from the general population [mean age 33 (19–48) years] and 47 controls circumcised because of phimosis (mean age 26 [19–44]) participated and completed the questionnaire. There were no differences in having a partner, reported fertility, age at sexarche (mean age 17.8), number of sex partners or sexual interest between the patients and controls. More patients than controls reported anejaculation. Reported glanular sensitivity was lower in hypospadias patients and circumcised controls compared with non‐circumcised controls. The odds of being satisfied with their sexual life increased with a higher penile perception score in patients (OR = 1.54, p = 0.01). There was no association with penile length. Sexual orientation, core gender identity and gender role behavior were sex‐typical in both patients and controls. Patients with proximal hypospadias had a lower reported fertility, experienced anejaculation more often, and were less satisfied with their sexual life. Men born with hypospadias have a good long‐term outcome concerning sexual function and fertility. Men born with proximal hypospadias have a more impaired outcome concerning both sexual function and fertility. As satisfaction with genital appearance is important for sexual life satisfaction, clinical, and psychological follow‐up into adulthood is especially important in boys born with proximal hypospadias.
A rectally administered combination of midazolam and ketamine was easy, effective and feasible for procedural pain in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Nilsson Stefan , Brunsson Ingemar , Askljung Berit , Påhlman Magnus , Himmelmann Kate
Published: December 2016

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate how effective a combination of rectally administered midazolam and racemic ketamine was for reducing pain in paediatric cerebral palsy patients receiving intramuscular injections of botulinum neurotoxin A. The feasibility and safety of the pain relief were also explored.

Method

Children with cerebral palsy, aged one to 18 years, were recruited from a regional paediatric rehabilitation unit between April 2012 and May 2014. Pain intensity, feasibility, total time spent in the clinic and side effects were registered. Pain scores were recorded by parents and healthcare professionals using different pain scales.

Results

We recorded 128 procedures in 61 children. The median scores were two (range: 0–10) for pain intensity and nine (range: 0–10) for feasibility. The median treatment time in the outpatient unit was 3.25 hours, and the most common side effects were nausea, pain and sleep disturbance. Gross motor function levels showed a negative correlation with the pain scores. This method could be an alternative to nitrous oxide/oxygen mixture for patients who do not tolerate inhalation analgesia.

Conclusion

Rectally administered midazolam and racemic ketamine provided effective pain relief for paediatric cerebral palsy outpatients receiving painful injections and was a viable alternative to inhalation analgesia.
Using student voice to examine teacher practices at a cyber charter high school
Authors: Borup Jered , Stevens Mark A.
Published: December 2016

Efforts to identify K‐12 online instructional best practices and standards have been limited because they largely ignored students’ voice—the primary stakeholder in any educational context. In this case study, we conducted 20 interviews among 10 students enrolled in a cyber charter high school. Qualitative analysis of interviews found that students valued teachers’ efforts to nurture caring relationships, facilitate sustained dialogue, design and organize engaging learning activities, and provide personalized instruction. However, students found that teachers varied in their abilities to effectively perform these activities and provided recommendations to improve how courses were designed and how teachers interacted with students. Although findings from this case study should not be generalized, these findings may prove insightful to those in similar contexts. Research should continue to obtain and understand online students’ voices and assist cyber schools as they work to respond to students’ needs.
RB but not R‐HCVAD is a feasible induction regimen prior to auto‐HCT in frontline MCL: results of SWOG Study S1106
Authors: Chen Robert W. , Li Hongli , Bernstein Steven H. , Kahwash Samir , Rimsza Lisa M. , Forman Stephen J. , Constine Louis , Shea Thomas C. , Cashen Amanda F. , Blum Kristie A. , Fenske Timothy S. , Barr Paul M. , Phillips Tycel , Leblanc Michael , Fisher Richard I. , Cheson Bruce D. , Smith Sonali M. , Faham Malek , Wilkins Jennifer , Leonard John P. , Kahl Brad S. , Friedberg Jonathan W.
Published: December 2016

Aggressive induction chemotherapy followed by autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplant (auto‐HCT) is effective for younger patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). However, the optimal induction regimen is widely debated. The Southwestern Oncology Group S1106 trial was designed to assess rituximab plus hyperCVAD/MTX/ARAC (hyperfractionated cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin and dexamethasone, alternating with high dose cytarabine and methotrexate) (RH) versus rituximab plus bendamustine (RB) in a randomized phase II trial to select a pre‐transplant induction regimen for future development. Patients had previously untreated stage III, IV, or bulky stage II MCL and received either 4 cycles of RH or 6 cycles of RB, followed by auto‐HCT. Fifty‐three of a planned 160 patients were accrued; an unacceptably high mobilization failure rate (29%) on the RH arm prompted premature study closure. The estimated 2‐year progression‐free survival (PFS) was 81% vs. 82% and overall survival (OS) was 87% vs. 88% for RB and RH, respectively. RH is not an ideal platform for future multi‐centre transplant trials in MCL. RB achieved a 2‐year PFS of 81% and a 78% MRD negative rate. Premature closure of the study limited the sample size and the precision of PFS estimates and MRD rates. However, RB can achieve a deep remission and could be a platform for future trials in MCL.
Keim oder kein Keim: Herausforderungen bei der Diagnose mykobakterieller Infektionen der Haut
Authors: Peters Franziska , Batinica Marina , Plum Georg , Eming Sabine A. , Fabri Mario
Published: December 2016

Kutane Mykobakteriosen sind in Deutschland selten. Dennoch ist es für eine frühzeitige Diagnose und anschließende wirksame Behandlung erforderlich, dass diese Krankheitsbilder im ärztlichen Bewusstsein verankert sind. Darüber hinaus stehen Infektionen mit Mykobakterien auf der Liste der Differentialdiagnosen vieler Hautkrankheiten. Diagnosen kutaner Mykobakteriosen beruhen auf klinischen Merkmalen und auf Laboruntersuchungen, einschließlich bakterieller Kulturen, histopathologischer Untersuchungen und PCR‐basierten Verfahren. Das Wissen um Möglichkeiten und Grenzen dieser Laboruntersuchungen ist von zentraler Bedeutung, um eine angemessene klinische Entscheidung zu treffen. In diesem Beitrag diskutieren wir die aktuellen diagnostischen Möglichkeiten, die in Verdachtsfällen kutaner Mykobakteriosen zur Verfügung stehen.
Sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitor use and dietary carbohydrate intake in Japanese individuals with type 2 diabetes: A randomized, open‐label, 3‐arm parallel comparative, exploratory study
Authors: Yabe Daisuke , Iwasaki Masahiro , Kuwata Hitoshi , Haraguchi Takuya , Hamamoto Yoshiyuki , Kurose Takeshi , Sumita Kiminobu , Yamazato Hitoshi , Kanada Shigeto , Seino Yutaka
Published: December 2016

This study investigated the safety and efficacy of the sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 (SGLT2) inhibitor luseogliflozin with differing carbohydrate intakes in Japanese individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Participants were randomly assigned to 3 carbohydrate‐adjusted meals for 14 days (days 1‐14; a high carbohydrate [HC; 55% total energy carbohydrate] and high glycaemic index [HGI] meal; an HC [55% total energy carbohydrate] and low glycaemic index [LGI] meal; or a low carbohydrate [LC; 40% total energy carbohydrate] and HGI meal). All participants received luseogliflozin for the last 7 days (days 8‐14), continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) before and after luseogliflozin treatment (days 5‐8 and days 12‐15) and blood tests on days 1, 8 and 15. Luseogliflozin significantly decreased the area under the curve and mean of CGM values in all 3 groups similarly. Fasting plasma glucose, insulin and glucagon were similar at all time points. Ketone bodies on day 15 were significantly higher in the LC‐HGI group compared with the HC‐HGI and HC‐LGI groups. In conclusion, luseogliflozin has similar efficacy and safety in Japanese people with T2D when meals contain 40% to 55% total energy carbohydrate, but a strict LC diet on this class of drug should be avoided to prevent SGLT2 inhibitor‐associated diabetic ketoacidosis.
Geographical variation in mandible morphologies specialised for collembolan predation depend on prey size in the ant Strumigenys lewisi
Authors: OHKAWARA KYOHSUKE , NAKAMURA KAZUKI , KADOKURA NATSUMI , TERASHITA TAKAAKI
Published: December 2016

1. Ants in the genus Strumigenys are predator ants that feed on tiny soil arthropods. The mandibles are modified into high‐speed traps to capture swift collembolan prey. The peculiar mandible morphologies of these ants have evolved depending on characteristics of the prey. Specifically, the evolution of mandible size and shape may be directly driven by prey size.

2. In the present study, the intraspecific variation of the morphological traits of Strumigenys lewisi populations were observed in central Japan. The relationships between the morphological variations and the prey body size were analysed.

3. In workers and queens, three morphological traits, head width, mandible length, and mandible width were significantly different among the multiple sites. Specifically, the mandible length was shorter in southwestern Japan than in other sampling locations. The ancova model revealed that the allometry of the mandible length to the head width was different among the sites.

4. As predicted, the mandible length was positively correlated with the average body size of collembolans in the Entomobryidae family. Furthermore, multiple regression analysis showed that the variation of the mandible length was affected by environmental factors represented as location information. However, the effect of collembolan body size was more effective at predicting mandible length. The study suggests that the geographical variation of mandible morphologies in S. lewisi has been selected by predator–prey interactions with collembolans.
From orphan to artisan: apprenticeship careers and contract enforcement in The Netherlands before and after the guild abolition
Authors: Schalk Ruben
Published: December 2016

Employing novel data on over 400 apprenticed orphaned boys from the Dutch cities of Leiden and Utrecht, this article explores the functioning of apprenticeship during and after the guilds. Although the mobility of apprentices was high and contracts were uncertain, no complaints arose from masters or guilds. Wages paid to these apprentices demonstrate that their labour made a gradually increasing contribution to the workshop from the start of their term. This enticed masters to take on apprentices and removed the need for contract enforcement. After the guilds were abolished, the number of apprenticed orphans in the crafts grew, suggesting that guilds previously hampered access to training. Additional data collected for regular (non‐orphan) apprentices corroborates these findings.
Clash of Cultures? German Expatriates' Work‐Life Boundary Adjustment in South Korea
Authors: Bader Anna Katharina , Froese Fabian Jintae , Kraeh Albert
Published: December 2016

Managing work‐life balance abroad is considered as one of the key challenges associated with expatriation. That is particularly true when the enactment of the work‐life boundaries of expatriates' home and host countries diverge. Drawing from boundary theory, we investigate whether and how expatriates experience cross‐cultural challenges in terms of their work‐life boundaries abroad. We interviewed 28 German expatriates in South Korea because both cultures differ substantially in terms of their preferred work‐life boundaries. Our study shows that perceived work‐life boundary pressures in the foreign environment and willingness to adjust to the local work‐life boundary culture vary substantially among expatriates. Based on a function of these two forces, we develop a typology of four work‐life boundary adjustment styles and relate them to work‐life balance satisfaction. Furthermore, we identify individual and organizational factors that influence expatriates' work‐life boundary adjustment styles. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Private regulation and global economic change: The drivers of sustainable agriculture in Brazil
Authors: Schleifer Philip
Published: December 2016

What determines the uptake of private sustainability regulation in developing countries? Existing studies point to the local context as the key explanatory factor. In particular, they identify local program characteristics, industry structures, and the regulatory environment as variables influencing program uptake at the point of production. However, examining two very similar certification programs in Brazil's soy and sugarcane industries, this article finds that local conditions fail to account for the observed patterns. A “local explanation” would have predicted similar levels of industry uptake in the two sectors. Conversely, it is found that Brazil's soy producers first backed but then opposed private sustainability regulation, whereas in the sugarcane sector the dynamic was exactly the opposite. Through an in‐depth analysis and cross‐case comparison this article reveals how changing transnational conditions were decisive in shaping these outcomes. Specifically, shifting end markets exposed the two sectors to different economic and regulatory pressures.
The symptom experiences of Puerto Rican children undergoing cancer treatments and alleviation practices as reported by their mothers
Authors: Gonzalez‐Mercado Velda J. , Williams Phoebe D. , Williams Arthur R. , Pedro Elsa , Colon Gloria
Published: December 2016

Although symptoms during cancer treatments are prevalent and are important clinical outcomes of childhood cancer, the symptom experiences of Puerto Rican children along with the symptom alleviation/care practices that parents provide during cancer treatments have received limited attention. To examine the occurrence/severity of symptoms on the Therapy‐Related Symptom Checklist‐Children (TRSC‐C), reported by mothers of Puerto Rican children undergoing cancer treatments and identifying mothers' symptom alleviation/management strategies. Descriptive study conducted between January and May 2012. Mothers of 65 Puerto Rican children/adolescents undergoing cancer treatments responded to the Spanish versions of the TRSC‐C, Symptom Alleviation: Self‐Care Methods, and a Demographic and Health form. The children/adolescents' mean age was 9.2 (1‐17) years; 62% were boys; 56 had chemotherapy; 9 had chemoradiotherapy. Children diagnoses were 35.4% leukemia, 24.6% solid tumors, 24.6% nervous system tumors, and 15.4% other. On the TRSC‐C, the symptoms experienced by 70% or more of the children were: irritability (77%), nausea (75%), and hair loss (72%). On the Symptom Alleviation: Self‐Care Methods, the most commonly reported symptom alleviation category was “taking prescribed medicines.” Puerto Rican mothers reported the use of alleviation practices to treat their children experiencing symptoms during pediatric cancer treatments. Patients and caregivers need to be educated about treatment‐induced side effects, and the life‐threatening consequences of underreporting and undermanagement. Symptoms should always be addressed at the time of initiation of primary or adjuvant cancer therapy because pretreatment symptoms may persist or get worse across the trajectory of treatment. A continuous assessment and management of symptoms during the childhood cancer trajectory can optimize clinical care and improve quality of life of patients and families.
Why do immigrants have longer periods of unemployment? Swiss evidence
Authors: Auer Daniel , Bonoli Giuliano , Fossati Flavia
Published: December 2016

Immigrant groups, especially those originating from non‐European countries, tend to experience disadvantages in the labour market and to be overrepresented among the recipients of welfare benefits in many European countries. In the public debate, this outcome is sometimes explained with reference to migration‐related factors such as weaker work values than natives (i.e., acceptability of remaining on benefits), smaller and lower quality of informal networks and lower levels of psychological well‐being. Indeed, we find that these factors significantly influence unemployment duration in the expected direction. However, they explain only a small share of the overall disadvantage that some immigrant groups experience. We conclude that at least some of the large differences we observed in unemployment durations are likely to be due to other factors including discrimination by employers.
Poor methodological quality and reporting standards of systematic reviews in burn care management
Authors: Wasiak Jason , Tyack Zephanie , Ware Robert , Goodwin Nicholas , Faggion Clovis M
Published: December 2016

The methodological and reporting quality of burn‐specific systematic reviews has not been established. The aim of this study was to evaluate the methodological quality of systematic reviews in burn care management. Computerised searches were performed in Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE and The Cochrane Library through to February 2016 for systematic reviews relevant to burn care using medical subject and free‐text terms such as ‘burn’, ‘systematic review’ or ‘meta‐analysis’. Additional studies were identified by hand‐searching five discipline‐specific journals. Two authors independently screened papers, extracted and evaluated methodological quality using the 11‐item A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) tool and reporting quality using the 27‐item Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) checklist. Characteristics of systematic reviews associated with methodological and reporting quality were identified. Descriptive statistics and linear regression identified features associated with improved methodological quality. A total of 60 systematic reviews met the inclusion criteria. Six of the 11 AMSTAR items reporting on ‘a priori’ design, duplicate study selection, grey literature, included/excluded studies, publication bias and conflict of interest were reported in less than 50% of the systematic reviews. Of the 27 items listed for PRISMA, 13 items reporting on introduction, methods, results and the discussion were addressed in less than 50% of systematic reviews. Multivariable analyses showed that systematic reviews associated with higher methodological or reporting quality incorporated a meta‐analysis (AMSTAR regression coefficient 2.1; 95% CI: 1.1, 3.1; PRISMA regression coefficient 6·3; 95% CI: 3·8, 8·7) were published in the Cochrane library (AMSTAR regression coefficient 2·9; 95% CI: 1·6, 4·2; PRISMA regression coefficient 6·1; 95% CI: 3·1, 9·2) and included a randomised control trial (AMSTAR regression coefficient 1·4; 95%CI: 0·4, 2·4; PRISMA regression coefficient 3·4; 95% CI: 0·9, 5·8). The methodological and reporting quality of systematic reviews in burn care requires further improvement with stricter adherence by authors to the PRISMA checklist and AMSTAR tool.
Improving production efficiency in the presence of genotype by environment interactions in pig genomic selection breeding programmes
Authors: Nirea K.G. , Meuwissen T.H.E.
Published: December 2016

We simulated a genomic selection pig breeding schemes containing nucleus and production herds to improve feed efficiency of production pigs that were cross‐breed. Elite nucleus herds had access to high‐quality feed, and production herds were fed low‐quality feed. Feed efficiency in the nucleus herds had a heritability of 0.3 and 0.25 in the production herds. It was assumed the genetic relationships between feed efficiency in the nucleus and production were low (rg = 0.2), medium (rg = 0.5) and high (rg = 0.8). In our alternative breeding schemes, different proportion of production animals were recorded for feed efficiency and genotyped with high‐density panel of genetic markers. Genomic breeding value of the selection candidates for feed efficiency was estimated based on three different approaches. In one approach, genomic breeding value was estimated including nucleus animals in the reference population. In the second approach, the reference population was containing a mixture of nucleus and production animals. In the third approach, the reference population was only consisting of production herds. Using a mixture reference population, we generated 40–115% more genetic gain in the production environment as compared to only using nucleus reference population that were fed high‐quality feed sources when the production animals were offspring of the nucleus animals. When the production animals were grand offspring of the nucleus animals, 43–104% more genetic gain was generated. Similarly, a higher genetic gain generated in the production environment when mixed reference population was used as compared to only using production animals. This was up to 19 and 14% when the production animals were offspring and grand offspring of nucleus animals, respectively. Therefore, in genomic selection pig breeding programmes, feed efficiency traits could be improved by properly designing the reference population.
Overexpression of the metastasis‐associated gene MTA3 correlates with tumor progression and poor prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Chuanxi , Li Guanzhen , Li Jiamei , Li Jie , Li Tao , Yu Jinyu , Qin Chengyong
Published: December 2016

Background and Aim

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common and aggressive cancers in the world. However, there remains a lack of effective diagnostic and treatment markers. We aimed to explore metastasis‐associated protein 3 (MTA3) expression and function in HCC and its relationship with clinicopathological factors.

Methods

We investigated the expression pattern and clinicopathological significance of MTA3 in 90 patients with HCC via immunohistochemistry and explored MTA3 function via gene knockdown of MTA3.

Results

MTA3 was overexpressed in HCC cell nuclei and downregulated in HCC cell cytoplasm. The former finding correlated with metastasis (P = 0.010) and poor prognosis (P = 0.018). In addition, deleting MTA3 inhibited HCC cell growth, invasion, and metastasis in vitro, as shown in the colony formation, migration, and wound‐healing assays.

Conclusions

These results indicate that MTA3 is an oncogene of HCC, predicts poor prognosis of HCC, and may be a future marker of HCC treatment.
Weight Trajectory over 20 Years and Likelihood of Mild Cognitive Impairment or Dementia Among Older Women
Authors: LeBlanc Erin S. , Rizzo Joanne H. , Pedula Kathryn L. , Yaffe Kristine , Ensrud Kristine E. , Cauley Jane , Cawthon Peggy M. , Cummings Steven , Hillier Teresa A. ,   the Study of Osteoporotic Fractures (SOF) Research Group
Published: December 2016

Objectives

The association between weight change and cognition is controversial. We examined the association between 20‐year weight change and cognitive function in late life.

Design

Cohort study.

Setting

Study of Osteoporotic Fractures (SOF).

Participants

One thousand two hundred eighty‐nine older, community‐dwelling women (mean baseline age 68 (65–81) and 88 (82–102) at cognitive testing).

Measurements

Study of Osteoporotic Fractures participants had body weight measured repeatedly over 20 years (mean 8 weights). Adjudicated cognitive status was classified as normal (n = 775) or mild cognitive impairment (MCI)/dementia (n = 514) at Year 20. Logistic models were used to evaluate whether absolute weight change, rate of weight loss per year, presence of abrupt, unrecovered weight loss, and weight variability were associated with MCI or dementia.

Results

Women with greater rate of weight loss over 20 years had increased chance of developing MCI or dementia. In age/education/clinic‐adjusted “base” models, each 0.5 kg/yr decrease resulted in 30% increased odds of MCI/dementia (OR = 1.30 [95% CI: 1.14, 1.49]). After adjustment for age, education, clinic, depression, and walking speed, there was 17% (OR = 1.17 [95% CI: 1.02, 1.35]) increased odds of MCI/dementia for each 0.5 kg/yr decrease in weight. In base models, variability in weight was significant. Each 1% average deviation from each woman's predicted weight curve was associated with 11% increased odds of MCI/dementia (OR = 1.11 [95% CI: 1.04, 1.18]). The estimate was attenuated after full adjustment (OR = 1.06 [95% CI: 0.99, 1.14]). The presence of an abrupt weight decline was not associated with MCI/dementia.

Conclusions

Rate of weight loss over 20 years was associated with development of MCI or dementia in women surviving past 80 years, suggesting that nutritional status, social‐environmental factors, and/or adipose tissue function and structure may affect cognitive function with aging.
Characteristics and sequelae of erupted supernumerary teeth: A study of 218 cases among Sri Lankan children
Authors: Herath Chandra , Jayawardena Chantha , Nagarathne Nandani , Perera Kanthi
Published: December 2016

Aim

In the present study, we investigated the characteristics and sequelae of erupted supernumerary teeth (ST) in a sample of Sri Lankan children.

Methods

Data were recorded from patients' clinical records, radiographs, models, and extracted teeth.

Results

The sample consisted of 239 ST from 218 patients. The mean age of the sample was 9.08 ± 2.47 years. The male‐to‐female ratio was 2.8:1. The majority (42.66%) of patients with ST were in aged 8‐10 years. Many (94.94%) of the ST were located in the premaxilla (incisor), followed by the canine (4.22%), premolar (0.42%), and molar (0.42%) regions. The most common shape of ST teeth was conical. Malocclusion (59.83%) was the major problem associated with ST, and the clinical impact was highest on the 8‐10‐year age group. A strong association was observed between patients' age and clinical impact to the dentition (χ2=42.09, P=.000).

Conclusion

Because the majority of ST can lead to malocclusion, especially in mixed dentition, awareness, early detection, and timely clinical intervention of ST are recommended.
Oxygen isotope thermometry using quartz inclusions in garnet
Authors: Quinn R. J. , Kitajima K. , Nakashima D. , Spicuzza M. J. , Valley J. W.
Published: December 2016

Oxygen isotope ratios of quartz inclusions (QI) within garnet from granulite and amphibolite facies gneisses in the Adirondack Mountains, NY were analysed and used to determine metamorphic temperatures. Primary QI for eight of 12 samples have δ18O values significantly lower than matrix quartz (MQ). The primary QI retain δ18O values representative of thermal conditions during garnet crystallization, whereas the δ18O values of MQ were raised by diffusive exchange with other matrix minerals (e.g. mica and feldspar) during cooling. The δ18O differences between QI and MQ show that garnet (a mineral with slow diffusion of oxygen) can armour QI from isotopic exchange with surrounding matrix, even during slow cooling. These differences between δ18O in MQ and QI can further be used to test cooling rates by Fast Grain Boundary diffusion modelling. Criteria for identifying QI that preserve primary compositions and are suitable for thermometry were developed based on comparative tests. Relations between δ18O and inclusion size, distance of inclusion to host–garnet rim, core–rim zonation of individual inclusions, and presence or absence of petrological features (healed cracks in QI, inclusions in contact with garnet cracks lined by secondary minerals, and secondary minerals along the inclusion grain boundary) were investigated. In this study, 61% of QI preserve primary δ18O and 39% were associated with features that were linked to reset δ18O values. If δ18O in garnet is homogeneous and inclusions are removed, laser‐fluorination δ18O values of bulk garnet are more precise, more accurate, and best for thermometry. Intragrain δ18O(Grt) profiles measured in situ by ion microprobe show no δ18O zonation. Almandine–rich garnet (Alm60–75) from each sample was measured by laser‐fluorination mass‐spectrometry (LF‐MS) for δ18O and compared with ion microprobe measurements of δ18O in QI for thermometry. The Δ18O(Qz–Grt) values for Adirondack samples range from 2.66 to 3.24‰, corresponding to temperatures of 640–740 °C (A[Qz–Alm] = 2.71). Out of 12 samples that were used for thermometry, nine are consistent with previous estimates of peak temperature (625–800 °C) based on petrological and carbon–isotope thermometry for regional granulite and upper amphibolite facies metamorphism. The three samples that disagree with independent thermometry for peak metamorphism are from the anorthosite–mangerite–charnockite–granite suite in the central Adirondacks and yield temperatures of 640–665 °C, ~100 °C lower than previous estimates. These low temperatures could be interpreted as thermal conditions during late (post‐peak) crystallization of garnet on the retrograde path.
Novel approach to uterine artery pseudoaneurysm embolization for delayed post‐partum hemorrhage
Authors: Parker Ross , Wuerdeman Marc , Grant Matthew , Kitley Charles
Published: December 2016

Uterine artery pseudoaneurysms (UAP) are a rare cause of post‐partum hemorrhage. Conservative management is discouraged due to the risk of spontaneous hemorrhage. Intra‐arterial embolization is highly successful (>90%) and offers definitive treatment. We present the case of a 27‐year‐old woman with significant delayed post‐partum hemorrhage after cesarean section who was found to have a UAP on imaging. Her tortuous vascular anatomy and spasmodic aneurysmal neck presented technical challenges to embolization with traditional material, such as gel foam and coils. Intra‐arterial thrombin was then employed with good technical and clinical outcome. To our knowledge, this is the first case describing the use of intra‐arterial thrombin in the treatment of UAP. Given its success in this case, we argue that intra‐arterial thrombin should be considered a viable alternative for embolization of UAP when more traditional techniques fail.
DEPOSITIONAL AND DIAGENETIC BARRIERS, BAFFLES AND CONDUITS: PERMIAN – CARBONIFEROUS UNAYZAH RESERVOIR, NUAYYIM FIELD, CENTRAL SAUDI ARABIA
Authors: Al‐Ramadan K. , Franks S.G. , Al‐Shammari S. , Rees A. , Koeshidayatullah A. , Abu‐Khamsin S.
Published: December 2016

The Unayzah Formation is one of the most important Palaeozoic reservoir systems in Saudi Arabia. In the Nuayyim field, Central Saudi Arabia, it produces light, sweet crude oil and consists of three main reservoir units, in descending stratigraphic order: Unayzah A, B and C. These reservoir units include a wide range of depositional facies deposited under a variety of climatic conditions, from high‐latitude glacio‐fluvial to more temperate playa/lacustrine, floodplain and braided‐fluvial to hot‐arid aeolian environments. Together with the diagenetic changes superimposed on the various depositional facies, this has produced complex reservoir heterogeneity.

The effects of this diagenetic and sedimentologic complexity on reservoir quality and compartmentalization are the subject of this paper. Approximately 816 ft of core and 611 core plug samples were examined from three wells which penetrate, completely or in part, the Unayzah reservoir. We combine petrographic and scanning electron microscope analysis with porosity and permeability data and calculated pore throat dimensions to identify fluid conduits, barriers and baffles to fluid flow. A rock classification scheme is proposed which takes into account whether the pore‐level control on fluid flow is due to depositional or diagenetic processes and the composition of depositional or diagenetic phases within the pores. Distinguishing depositional versus diagenetic controls on fluid flow is important for predicting the three‐dimensional geometry of conduits, barriers and baffles, and a priori knowledge of potential reactions between injected fluids and reservoir rocks is important for designing enhanced oil recovery fluids.

In the three wells studied, it appears that the Unayzah reservoir is compartmentalized vertically due to the occurrence of diagenetic and depositional barriers and baffles. There is insufficient data to assess the lateral or areal extent of the barriers, baffles and fluid conduits, but the understanding of pore‐level controls on reservoir quality and the rock classification schemes introduced here will provide a starting point for future studies. These studies should combine well logs, seismic and engineering data with data presented here to assist mapping conduits, barriers and baffles across the field. The proposed classification schemes may also prove to be useful for assessing reservoirs in other fields both within Saudi Arabia and elsewhere.
Molecular determination of kleptoplast origins from the sea slugPlakobranchus ocellatus(Sacoglossa, Gastropoda) reveals cryptic bryopsidalean (Chlorophyta) diversity in the Hawaiian Islands
Authors: Wade Rachael M. , Sherwood Alison R.
Published: December 2016

The sacoglossan sea slug species complexPlakobranchus ocellatusis a common algivore throughout the tropical Pacific, including the Hawaiian Islands.Plakobranchus ocellatusis kleptoplastic—it sequesters and retains algal chloroplasts—a characteristic that can be exploited to molecularly characterize diminutive bryopsidalean algae that are typically difficult to locate, collect, and identify. PreviousDNAbarcode analyses of bothP. ocellatusand its kleptoplasts have been conducted primarily in the western Pacific and have only minimally sampled the most eastern populations in the Hawaiian Islands. Using two chloroplast markers,rbcL andtufA, kleptoplast samples from an Oahu population ofP. ocellatuswere amplified and cloned to identify their algal sources.Plakobranchus ocellatussequester chloroplasts from up to 11 bryopsidalean algal species, all but one being diminutive in thallus size. Notably, eight of the detected algal species were new records to the Hawaiian Islands. A sequestration preference study demonstrated that the O‘ahu population ofP. ocellatuspreferentially sequesters chloroplasts from diminutive, epilithic taxa. UsingcoxI barcoding ofP. ocellatus, we showed the O‘ahu population to be part of a clade that includes sequences from the neighboring island Maui, Australia, and the Philippines. The use ofP. ocellatusas a novel sampling tool allows the exploration of the green algal community diversity and composition at a fine scale.
Haem oxygenase‐1 polymorphisms can affect HCV replication and treatment responses with different efficacy in humanized mice
Authors: Kah Janine , Volz Tassilo , Lütgehetmann Marc , Groth Anne , Lohse Ansgar W. , Tiegs Gisa , Sass Gabriele , Dandri Maura
Published: December 2016

Background & Aims

Enhancement of host anti‐oxidant enzymes, such as haemoxygenase‐1, may attenuate virus‐mediated hepatocyte injury, while the induction of HO‐1 by cobalt‐protoporphyrin‐IX (CoPP) administration, as the application of its haem degradation product biliverdin (BV), was shown to hinder HCV replication in vitro. In addition, (GT)n‐repeats length in the polymorphic region of the HO‐1 promoter may affect HO‐1 expression and responsiveness to infection and disease severity. Aim of this study was to investigate the antiviral and hepatoprotective effects of CoPP‐mediated HO‐1 induction, alone or in combination with interferon alpha (peg‐IFNα), in HCV‐infected mice harbouring hepatocytes from donors with different HO‐1‐promoter polymorphisms.

Methods

Upon establishment of HCV infection, CoPP, BV and peg‐IFNα were given alone or in combination. Viraemia changes and intrahepatic human gene expression were determined by qRT‐PCR and immunohistochemistry.

Results

CoPP administration increased human HO‐1 expression and significantly reduced viraemia, although changes correlated with promoter length (Δ0.5log and Δ2log reduction with medium‐ and short‐polymorphism respectively). Polymorphisms did not influence BV‐mediated antiviral effects (Δ1log). Notably, HO‐1 induction attenuated basal HCV‐driven enhancement of interferon genes and pro‐inflammatory cytokines, both in cells with short‐ or medium‐polymorphisms. Moreover, simultaneous administration of CoPP and peg‐IFNα reduced viraemia even stronger (median 3log), whereas 1log viraemia reduction was determined in mice receiving peg‐IFNα monotherapy.

Conclusions

Although the protective function of HO‐1 could be elicited in vivo with both host polymorphisms, the strength of HO‐1 induction and suppression of HCV occurred in a polymorphism‐dependent manner, indicating that host‐genetic determinants may affect disease progression and infection outcome.
Radiation Exposure During Videourodynamics: Establishing Risk Factors
Authors: BRUCKER Benjamin M. , CAMPEAU Lysanne , FONG Eva , KALRA Sidhartha , ROSENBLUM Nirit , NITTI Victor W.
Published: December 2016

Objectives

The use of fluoroscopy during urodynamics can be helpful in the evaluation of patients with lower urinary tract dysfunction. However, fluoroscopy introduces the potential hazards of ionizing radiation, including malignancy. In this study we analyzed the data for radiation exposure during videourodynamic study (VUDS) at our center; we have also tried to establish the factors associated with increased exposure to radiation during VUDS.

Methods

We reviewed all VUDS from August 2010 to May 2011. Patients were included if they were ≥18 years old and had data recorded on total radiation exposure (radcm2). Age, sex, body mass index, fluoroscopy time, diagnosis, and urodynamic findings were recorded. Multivariate linear regression analysis was used to identify independent risk factors that influenced increased radiation exposure.

Results

A total of 203 videourodynamic studies were assessed in 106 female and 97 male patients with a mean age of 64.3 and body mass index of 26.8. The average fluoroscopy time was 100.2 sec and exposure was 560.9 radcm2. The most common indication for videourodynamics was incontinence, 40.9%. On multivariate linear regression analysis body mass index, vesico‐ureteral reflux, sex, number of fill cycles, and larger capacity were independent predictors of increased radiation exposure.

Conclusions

We have shown that increased radiation exposure as measure with Dose Area Product during VUDS was significantly associated with larger BMI, female gender, larger bladder capacity, presence of VUR, junior operator, and higher number of fill cycles. Further studies are now underway to attempt to reduce exposure based on these findings.
Differentiation in reproductive traits of geminate mangrove crabs of the genus Aratus (Decapoda: Brachyura) across the Central American Isthmus
Authors: Rebolledo Adriana P. , Wehrtmann Ingo S.
Published: December 2016

The mangrove crab Aratus pisonii was considered to have an amphi‐American distribution; however, a recent study revealed that the Eastern Tropical Pacific populations were genetically distinct, thus representing a new species: Aratus pacificus. These species separated by the Isthmus of Panama have diverged under different environmental conditions that may have influenced their reproductive biology. As the available information about this genus concerns almost exclusively the Caribbean species, the aim of the present study was to analyse and compare reproductive aspects of A. pacificus and A. pisonii obtained from both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts of Costa Rica. Females were collected from April 2011 to April 2012, and reproductive features such as breeding season, size distribution of ovigerous females, fecundity, reproductive output, embryo volume and embryo water content were assessed. Both species produced embryos during the entire sampled period. Most females of A. pacificus carrying embryos close to hatching were found during the rainy season. Ovigerous females of A. pisonii were substantially larger and reached sexual maturity at a larger size than females of A. pacificus. Embryo production started in A. pacificus at a smaller female size than in A. pisonii. As fecundity increased with female size, the average fecundity was lower in A. pacificus. Females of A. pisonii produced larger embryos, which might be related to lower food availability: higher energy content in the embryo enhances the chances of larval survival. These data regarding reproductive features of the Pacific and Caribbean species support the conclusion to separate A. pacificus from A. pisonii.
Distribution and feeding ecology of three juvenile mojarras in a hypersaline tropical estuary in Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Silva Rayssa S. , Carvalho Kamila D. , Pessanha André L. M.
Published: December 2016

Although mojarra species usually demonstrate a wide distribution in tropical and subtropical estuaries, relatively little is known about the process influencing the spatial resource partitioning to nearshore habitats. Therefore, the aim of this study was check the existence of habitat and food partitioning among confamiliar species in a hypersaline estuary. The dietary compositions of three co‐occurring species of mojarras were determined, using samples collected with a beach seine from an inverse tropical estuary in Northeastern Brazil, during the rainy and the dry seasons of 2012. Eucinostomus argenteus and Ulaema lefroyi were abundant throughout the year, while Eugerres brasilianus was most abundant during the rainy season. Although these mojarras were found together in all areas of the estuary, there was evidence of habitat partitioning: E. argenteus and E. brasilianus were dominant in areas with submerged vegetation, while U. lefroyi was most abundant in areas with little habitat complexity and minimal shelter. All mojarras consumed, to different degrees, zooplankton, Bivalvia and Polychaeta. However, E. brasilanus also consumed a considerable amount of algae. Although the niches of the mojarra species appeared to significantly overlap, some resource partitioning patterns were apparent. While E. brasilanus was clearly different along the trophic niche, segregation of the other species was more important with respect to the spatial dimension. The different feeding strategies appear to minimize inter‐specific overlap and allow the co‐occurrence of these species in this hypersaline tropical estuary.
Small macro‐benthic invertebrates influence the survival, growth and behaviour of juvenile green sea urchins Strongylocentrotus droebachiensis in the laboratory
Authors: Jennings Lindsay B. , Hunt Heather L.
Published: December 2016

Recent settlers of many marine benthic invertebrates are cryptic, which exposes them to a suite of animals that differs from those they may experience as adults, potentially resulting in interactions causing mortality and/or reducing growth. Previous field experiments have indicated that such is the case with small juvenile green sea urchins Strongylocentrotus droebachiensis but which taxa are responsible for the mortality and reduced growth was not determined. A laboratory study was conducted to examine the effects of small macro‐benthic invertebrates, specifically chitons, scaleworms and larger juvenile conspecifics, as well as the full suite of cobble‐dwelling organisms, on the mortality, growth and behaviour of small (<3 mm) juvenile sea urchins. The likelihood of survival of small juvenile sea urchins was lower in the presence of larger juvenile sea urchins or with the full suite of cobble‐dwelling organisms than in the absence of animals. The small juvenile sea urchins survived and grew the best when they were with chitons and scaleworms. The behaviour of small sea urchins with the full suite of cobble‐dwelling organisms was more cryptic than the behaviour of urchins with scaleworms. This study indicates that interactions with the suite of small organisms living amongst cobbles can affect survival, growth and behaviour of small juvenile sea urchins, and that larger juvenile sea urchins can be a source of mortality for smaller conspecifics.