bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knockdown of LINC01614 inhibits lung adenocarcinoma cell progression by up‐regulating miR‐217 and down‐regulating FOXP1
Authors: Liu Ai‐Na , Qu Hua‐Jun , Yu Cai‐Yan , Sun Ping
Published: June 2018

We tried to identify the function of LINC01614 in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and reveal its underlying mechanisms. qRT‐PCR was applied to assess the expression of LINC016014 in LUAD tissues, noncancerous tissues and cells. Through colony formation assay, MTT assay and apoptosis analysis, we examined the variation of cell proliferation and apoptosis ability after silencing LINC01614. Moreover, the targeting interactions among LINC01614, miR‐217 and FOXP1 were validated via luciferase reporter assay, and then, we regulated the expression of miR‐217 and FOXP1 to ascertain their importance in cell proliferation and apoptosis. LINC01614 and FOXP1 were found to be up‐regulated in LUAD tumours and cells, whereas miR‐217 was down‐regulated. The experiment showed that target‐specific selectivity exists between LINC01614‐miR‐217 and miR‐217‐FOXP1 3′UTR. Furthermore, we disclosed that inhibition of LINC01614 could activate miR‐217, which subsequently restrained FOXP1. It was proved that LINC01614 promoted FOXP1 by inhibiting miR‐217, which ultimately stimulated the development of LUAD.
Dietary composition of black drum Pogonias cromis in a hypersaline estuary reflects water quality and prey availability
Authors: Rubio Kathryn S. , Ajemian Matthew , Stunz Gregory W. , Palmer Terence A. , Lebreton Benoit , Beseres Pollack Jennifer
Published: June 2018

The Baffin Bay estuary is a hypersaline system in the Gulf of Mexico that supports an important recreational and commercial fishery for black drum Pogonias cromis, a benthic predator. Seasonal measurements of water quality variables, benthic macrofauna densities and biomass, and determination of P. cromis food sources using stomach‐content and stable‐isotope analyses were carried out to determine how P. cromis food sources change with water quality and how this may affect P. cromis diet. Gut‐content analysis indicated P. cromis selectively consumed bivalves Mulinia lateralis and Anomalocardia auberiana. Isotope compositions demonstrated that P. cromis relied on these benthic food resources produced in the Baffin Bay estuary year‐round. Biomass and densities of these bivalves were influenced by changes in water quality variables, particularly salinity and dissolved oxygen. Thus, this paper demonstrates the relationship between water quality variables, benthic macrofauna, and their use as food resources by a carnivorous fish species, and emphasizes the need for integrated assessments when studying the effects of water quality on ecosystem function. Holistic approaches such as these can provide important information for management and conservation of fishery resources and can improve predictions of ecosystem response to climate variability.
Effects of ocean acidification on salinity tolerance and seawater growth of Atlantic salmon Salmo salar smolts
Authors: McCormick Stephen D. , Regish Amy M.
Published: June 2018

Human activity has resulted in increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2), which will result in reduced pH and higher levels of CO2 in the ocean, a process known as ocean acidification. Understanding the effects of ocean acidification (OA) on fishes will be important to predicting and mitigating its consequences. Anadromous species such as salmonids may be especially at risk because of their rapid movements between fresh water and seawater, which could minimize their ability to acclimate. In the present study, we examine the effect of future OA on the salinity tolerance and early seawater growth of Atlantic salmon Salmo salar smolts. Exposure to 610 and 1010 μatm CO2 did not alter salinity tolerance but did result in slightly lower plasma chloride levels in smolts exposed to seawater compared with controls (390 μatm). Gill Na+–K+‐ATPase activity, plasma cortisol, glucose and haematocrit after seawater exposure were not altered by elevated CO2. Growth rate in the first 2 weeks of seawater exposure was greater at 1010 μatm CO2 than under control conditions. This study of the effects of OA on S. salar during the transition from fresh water to seawater indicates that elevated CO2 is not likely to affect osmoregulation negatively and may improve early growth in seawater.
The effect of rearing structures on behaviour and movement of juvenile steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss
Authors: Self Katharine E. , Schreck Carl B. , Cogliati Karen M. , Billman Eric J. , Noakes David L.G.
Published: June 2018

The relative movement of juvenile steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss reared on two treatments was investigated to provide insight on the effect of structure in the rearing environment on the behaviour of the fish before potential release into a natural river system. The progeny of wild broodstock were reared either in the presence or absence of structure in the tank environment for 7 months at the Oregon Hatchery Research Center located in Oregon, U.S.A. Behavioural assessments, including movement response to a simulated predator, showed that fish reared on structure moved a similar amount (based on line crosses) as fish reared in bare hatchery tanks. No significant difference was observed in the proportion of time spent near a small structure within the behavioural test tank between the two treatments, but all fish showed decreased movement over time with each subsequent predation event. Fish from both treatments spent 30% of their time in the section of the tank containing the structure, which was one section out of a total of eight sections. In both treatments, fish foraged 20% of the time in the 2 min following the introduction of live tubifex prey (two separate events). Overall, similar movement and foraging responses occurred following mock predation events for juveniles reared either with or without structure. Developing assessment tools such as these, that measures behaviours related to survival based on rearing environment should allow managers to better predict the survival and effect of rearing conditions on the release of hatchery‐origin fish into the wild.
Effects of coeliacomesenteric blood flow reduction on intestinal barrier function in rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss
Authors: Sundh Henrik , Gräns Albin , Brijs Jeroen , Sandblom Erik , Axelsson Michael , Berg Charlotte , Sundell Kristina
Published: June 2018

The aim of the current work was to elucidate if there is a connection between stress‐induced decrease in coeliacomesenteric artery blood flow (i.e. gastrointestinal blood flow; GBF) and disruption of the intestinal primary barrier in rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss. Upon initiation of a 15 min acute chasing stress, the GBF decreased instantly by c. 92%. The GBF then slowly increased and reached c. 28% of resting values at the end of the stress protocol. After the stress was ceased, the GBF slowly increased and returned to resting values within c. 45 min. Intestinal permeability assessment in an Ussing‐chambers set‐up revealed impaired intestinal barrier function 24 h after stress. When the stress‐induced GBF reduction was mimicked by an experimental occlusion of the coeliacomesenteric artery for 15 min followed by 24 h recovery, no effect on intestinal barrier function was observed. These results suggest that no direct causal relationship can be found between the GBF reduction and development of intestinal barrier dysfunction following periods of acute stress in this species of fish.
Effect of a concomitant elemental diet with maintenance anti‐tumor necrosis factor‐α antibody therapy in patients with Crohn's disease: A multicenter, prospective cohort study
Authors: Hirai Fumihito , Ishida Tetsuya , Takeshima Fuminao , Yamamoto Shojiro , Yoshikawa Ichiro , Ashizuka Shinya , Inatsu Haruhiko , Mitsuyama Keiichi , Sou Suketo , Iwakiri Ryuichi , Nozaki Ryoichi , Ohi Hidehisa , Esaki Motohiro , Iida Mitsuo , Matsui Toshiyuki ,   The Additional Power of Elemental Diet on Maintenance Biologics Therapy in Crohn's Disease (ADORE) Study Group
Published: June 2018

Background and Aim

The aim of this study was to clarify the additional effect of a concomitant elemental diet (ED) for patients with Crohn's disease on maintenance anti‐tumor necrosis factor‐α antibody (anti‐TNF).

Methods

Crohn's disease patients who received anti‐TNF induction therapy were enrolled. Patients who achieved clinical response (defined as delta Crohn's disease activity index [CDAI] > 70 and CDAI < 200) at 10–14 weeks after the start of infliximab or adalimumab were included. Eligible patients took a tolerability test of ED (900 kcal/day) for 3 days. Then, patients who preferred concomitant ED and whose ED tolerance was confirmed were allocated to the ED group and given Elental 900 kcal/day or more. Other patients were allocated to the non‐ED group. The primary endpoint was the cumulative remission rate at 2 years after baseline. Clinical relapse was defined as CDAI > 200 and/or need for additional treatment. Adherence to the ED was confirmed at each visit.

Results

Seventy‐two patients were included. Thirty‐seven were allocated to the ED group, and 35 were allocated to the non‐ED group. The cumulative remission rate at 2 years was not significantly different between the two groups (60.9% vs 56.7%, P = 0.98). Adherence to the ED in the ED group was relatively low, and only 11 patients were maintained on an ED of 900 kcal/day.

Conclusions

The addition of ED for Crohn's disease patients who responded to initial anti‐TNF induction therapy was not found to improve outcomes. The efficacy of concomitant ED in other clinical settings, such as loss of response, needs to be clarified in the future (UMIN000009789).
Comparative efficacy of intralesional triamcinolone acetonide injection during early and static stage of pathological scarring
Authors: Song Huapei , Tan Jianglin , Fu Qingqing , Huang Ling , Ao Ming
Published: June 2018

Objective

This study aims to clarify whether the effect of intralesional triamcinolone acetonide injection during the early stage of scarring differs from the static stage, which still remains unclear.

Methods

A total of 108 patients with pathological scars were enrolled in this study and were divided into 2 groups according to the time of first treatment after injury: the early stage group(≤6 months after injury) and the static stage group(>6 months after injury). Patients of both groups were then treated with intralesional triamcinolone acetonide injection. The Vancouver scar scale was adopted for the evaluation of scars, and a durometer was utilized for the measurement of the hardness of the scar. The visual analog scale was adopted for the assessment of patients’ subjective feelings (pruritus and pain). In the meantime, adverse drug reactions were also recorded.

Results

After intralesional injection of triamcinolone acetonide, most of the hypertrophic scars and keloids improved in color, thickness, softness, and vascular distribution. The hardness of scars improved significantly. The overall efficacy of the static stage group was superior to the early stage group. Most patients, after the injection of triamcinolone acetonide, had significant alleviation or even total loss of cicatricial pain and pruritus.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that the treatment efficacy was better when applied during the static stage of pathological scarring rather than the early stage, which might be due to macrophages and their released cytokines. This study provides new clinical evidence for optimizing drug therapy of pathological scars.
Parental Work Schedules and Child‐Care Arrangements in Low‐Income Families
Authors: Hepburn Peter
Published: June 2018

Objective

This study analyzes the relationships between parental working schedules and several aspects of child‐care arrangements for young children in low‐income single‐mother and two‐partner households.

Background

Children whose parents work nonstandard schedules may hold child‐care arrangements that are less stimulating or developmentally productive than their peers whose parents work standard schedules. This study builds on previous research by expanding the set of outcomes under analysis, accounting for coscheduling in two‐partner households, revising traditional shift definitions, and using recent, nationally representative data.

Method

The 2012 National Survey of Early Care and Education is used to develop work schedule typologies. Regression methods are employed to evaluate the relationships between these schedules and the use of center‐based, home‐based, and relative care; continuity of care; and complexity of care (a new measure introduced as an alternative to care multiplicity).

Results

Nonstandard schedules are associated with increased child‐care complexity and decreased continuity and the types of care that children receive in single‐mother households but less so in two‐partner households. In two‐partner households the largest effects are in households in which both partners work standard schedules; children in these households receive more nonparental care and are in more complex child‐care arrangements.

Conclusion

Findings point to the cumulative disadvantage accruing to the children of single mothers, especially those working nontraditional shifts.

Implications

Labor market inequalities yield consequences for children's development and intergenerational stratification.
3D melatonin nerve scaffold reduces oxidative stress and inflammation and increases autophagy in peripheral nerve regeneration
Authors: Qian Yun , Han Qixin , Zhao Xiaotian , Song Jialin , Cheng Yuan , Fang Zhiwei , Ouyang Yuanming , Yuan Wei‐En , Fan Cunyi
Published: June 2018

Peripheral nerve defect is a common and severe kind of injury in traumatic accidents. Melatonin can improve peripheral nerve recovery by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation after traumatic insults. In addition, it triggers autophagy pathways to increase regenerated nerve proliferation and to reduce apoptosis. In this study, we fabricated a melatonin‐controlled‐release scaffold to cure long‐range nerve defects for the first time. 3D manufacture of melatonin/polycaprolactone nerve guide conduit increased Schwann cell proliferation and neural expression in vitro and promoted functional, electrophysiological and morphological nerve regeneration in vivo. Melatonin nerve guide conduit ameliorated immune milieu by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction. In addition, it activated autophagy to restore ideal microenvironment, to provide energy for nerves and to reduce nerve cell apoptosis, thus facilitating nerve debris clearance and neural proliferation. This innovative scaffold will have huge significance in the nerve engineering.
Effects of breed‐production system on collagen, textural, and sensory traits of 10 European beef cattle breeds
Authors: Panea Begoña , Olleta José Luis , Sañudo Carlos , del Mar Campo María , Oliver María Angels , Gispert Marina , Serra Xavier , Renand Gilles , del Carmen Oliván María , Jabet Sylvie , García Susana , López Montaña , Izquierdo Mercedes , García‐Cachán María Dolores , Quintanilla Raquel , Piedrafita Jesús
Published: June 2018

In the current study the collagen, texture, and sensory characteristics of meat from 712 yearling males of 10 local Spanish and French beef breeds raised in their typical production systems were described. The breed‐production system affected collagen and texture variables but affected sensory variables only slightly. There was a large amount of intra breed‐production system variation for all the variables. French breeds had lower values for collagen solubility (~12%) than Spanish breeds (~40%). Stress (WB) varied from 36 N/cm2 in Casina to 44 N/cm2 in Salers, whereas compression stress at 80% ranged from 35 N/cm2 in Asturiana de los Valles to 40 N/cm2 in Salers. Oven cooking resulted in higher cooking losses (24%) than cooking on a grill (12%). Cooking losses increased as the grill temperature increased. Numerous significant correlations were found among variables. Carcass weight is associated with all the collagen and texture variables. Correlation coefficients among texture and collagen variables were statistically significant and these correlation coefficients were in general higher for solubility percentage than for total collagen content, highlighting the importance of the solubility of collagen rather than total collagen in determining meat textural properties.

Practical applications

To differentiate a product in the market, it is necessary to define its characteristics. Differentiation allows increasing the added value of products and, therefore, income of the farmers. In addition, it guarantees to the consumers that the product they purchase has the intrinsic and extrinsic quality features that they seek. For consumers, beef texture is one of the most important quality attributes sought, therefore, studying factors that can affect beef texture is a major interest for the industry.
Effect of short‐chain inulin on the rheological and sensory characteristics of reduced fat set coconut milk yoghurt
Authors: Chetachukwu Adegoke Samuel , Thongraung Chakree , Yupanqui Chutha Takahashi
Published: June 2018

The effect of short‐chain inulin on the rheological and sensory properties of reduced fat set coconut milk yoghurt was studied with whole fat coconut milk yoghurt as reference. The concentration of short‐chain inulin was varied at 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20% wt/vol, respectively. All the yoghurt samples displayed higher elastic modulus G′ than viscous modulus G″. However, 15% inulin yoghurt had the highest value for G′ and G″. The 15 and 20% inulin yoghurts displayed high yield stress (1,036.7 ± 2.39 and 368.23 ± 0.30 Pa). Addition threshold of 15% was established, beyond this level there was a significant decrease in the yield stress, firmness, cohesiveness, and consistency values of the reduced fat yoghurts. Using Pearson correlation analysis, no correlation was observed between firmness and yield stress. Similarly, there was significant correlation between the yield stress and instrumental viscosity (r = .957; p < .01). Furthermore, all yoghurt samples displayed strain thinning behavior except whole fat yoghurt. Carbohydrate was affected by inulin incorporation. Addition of short‐chain inulin improved sensorial characteristics such as taste, and flavor, but did not display significant difference in color and odor of yoghurt samples.

Practical applications

The use of short‐chain inulin has grown globally owing to its functional, technological, and nutritional properties. However, its use is very pronounced in the dairy industry, where it has found increased use as fat mimetics and sugar replacers. The effect of short‐chain inulin (DP < 10) to act in reduced fat coconut milk yoghurt was for the first time investigated. Rheological, textural and descriptive sensory based test were conducted. About 15% wt/vol addition threshold was established beyond this level inulin takes no further part in the formation of gel system. These findings may suggest a template for short‐chain inulin addition in nondairy yoghurts, particularly reduced fat nondairy yoghurts where enhanced sensory related properties are of utmost priority.
Frailty in advanced liver disease
Authors: Laube Robyn , Wang Hogan , Park Laura , Heyman Joanne K. , Vidot Helen , Majumdar Avik , Strasser Simone I. , McCaughan Geoffrey W. , Liu Ken
Published: June 2018

Prognostication of patients with cirrhosis is complex, depending on more than just the severity of liver disease. Scores such as the model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) and Child Pugh can assist with prognostication, yet by focusing on physiological parameters they fail to completely capture the elements contributing to a patient's clinical status. Evidence is increasing to support an important role for physical functioning in patient outcomes. Frailty has been increasingly recognised in medical literature over recent years, including in hepatology where it is identified in nearly half of cirrhosis patients. It is a complex construct consisting of multisystemic physiological decline and increased vulnerability to stressors. Diagnosis is complicated by lack of a consensus definition and measurement tool for frailty in cirrhosis. Frailty heralds a poor prognosis, predicting increased morbidity and mortality both pre‐ and postliver transplant, independent of MELD score. It is thought to be reversible, with promising data supporting prehabilitation and lifestyle intervention programs. In the future, assessment of patients with cirrhosis is likely to incorporate a measure of frailty, however, further research is required.
Fatigue in chronic liver disease: New insights and therapeutic approaches
Authors: Swain Mark G. , Jones David E. J.
Published: June 2018

The management of fatigue associated with chronic liver disease is a complex and major clinical challenge. Although fatigue can complicate many chronic diseases, it is particularly common in diseases with an inflammatory component. Fatigue can have both peripheral (i.e., neuromuscular) and central (i.e., resulting from changes in neurotransmission within the brain) causes. However, fatigue in chronic liver disease has strong social/contextual components and is often associated with behavioural alterations including depression and anxiety. Given the increasing awareness of patient‐reported outcomes as important components of treatment outcomes and clinical research, there is a growing need to better understand and manage this poorly understood yet debilitating symptom. Although several pathophysiological mechanisms for explaining the development of fatigue have been generated, our understanding of fatigue in patients with chronic liver disease remains incomplete. A better understanding of the pathways and neurotransmitter systems involved may provide specific directed therapies. Currently, the management of fatigue in chronic liver disease can involve a combined use of methods to beneficially alter behavioural components and pharmacological interventions, of which several treatments have potential for the improved management of fatigue in chronic liver disease. However, evidence and consensus are lacking on the best approach and the most appropriate biochemical target(s) whilst clinical trials to address this issue have been few and limited by small sample size. In this review, we outline current understanding of the impact of fatigue and related symptoms in chronic liver disease, discuss theories of pathogenesis, and examine current and emerging approaches to its treatment.
Genetic polymorphisms of the hepatic pathways of fatty liver disease after living donor liver transplantation
Authors: Chiu King‐Wah , Goto Shigeru , Nakano Toshiaki , Hu Tsung‐Hui , Chen Ding‐Wei , Huang Kuang‐Tzu , Hsu Li‐Wen , Chen Chao‐Long
Published: June 2018

Background & Aims

Fatty liver disease is an important complication associated with liver transplantation, and the cytochrome P‐450 system of the donor liver may be involved in its pathogenesis. To explore the effects of the CYP27A1, CYP27B1, CYP2R1, and vitamin D receptor pathways on vitamin D maintenance after living donor liver transplantation, we investigated the interplay between serum 25(OH)D and common variants in 60 paired donors and recipients who underwent living donor liver transplantation.

Methods

We prospectively collected 60 donor/recipient pairs from our liver transplantation programmes and extracted serum DNA to evaluate single nucleotide polymorphisms in CYP27A1 rs4674344, CYP27B1 rs10877012, CYP2R1 rs10741657, and VDR rs2228530 alleles using real‐time polymerase chain reaction. We measured serum 25(OH)D concentrations of donors (D‐D0) and recipients before (R‐D0) and after (R‐D30) living donor liver transplantation for comparison with repeated‐measures analysis of variance in generalized estimating equations analysis.

Results

Fatty liver disease was noted in 28.3% of the cases after living donor liver transplantation, and the graft rejection rate was 25%. There were significant differences in low serum 25(OH)D concentrations between D‐D0 and R‐D0 and between R‐D0 and R‐30 groups. Significant associations were observed for serum CYP27A1 rs4674344 in recipients and donors as well as for graft liver tissue with VDR rs2228530. There was no significant relationship with serum CYP27B1 rs10877012 in recipients and donors or with graft liver tissue with CYP2R1 rs10741657.

Conclusions

Donor/recipient CYP27A1 rs4674344 and graft VDR rs2228570 may be related to low serum 25(OH)D and may play a major role in the development of fatty liver disease in recipients after living donor liver transplantation.
Metformin inhibits TGF‐beta 1‐induced MCP‐1 expression through BAMBI‐mediated suppression of MEK/ERK1/2 signalling
Authors: Liang Diefei , Song Zijiao , Liang Weiwen , Li Yan , Liu Shanying
Published: June 2018

Aims

Metformin is a biguanide derivative widely used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Recent evidence demonstrates that this anti‐hyperglycaemic drug exerts renal protective effects, yet the mechanisms remain poorly understood. monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP‐1) has been recognized as a key mediator of renal fibrosis in chronic kidney diseases, including diabetic nephropathy. This study aimed to investigate the effects of metformin on transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF‐β1)‐induced MCP‐1 expression and the underlying mechanisms in rat renal tubular epithelial cells.

Methods

Rat renal tubular epithelial cell line NRK‐52E cells were stimulated with TGF‐β1 and/or metformin. The messenger RNA (mRNA) of MCP‐1 and bone morphogenetic protein and activin membrane‐bound inhibitor (BAMBI) was evaluated by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. MCP‐1 protein was measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Total and phosphorylated extracellular signal‐regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) was evaluated by western blot. Down‐ and upregulation of BAMBI were achieved by RNA interference targeting BAMBI and lentiviral vector‐mediated overexpression of the BAMBI gene, respectively. Cell viability was analysed using Cell Counting Kit 8 (CCK‐8) reagents.

Results

Stimulation with TGF‐β1 resulted in the increased expression of MCP‐1 and decreased expression of BAMBI in NRK‐52E cells. Metformin inhibited the expression of MCP‐1 in NRK‐52E cells. Pretreatment with metformin suppressed upregulation of MCP‐1 and downregulation of BAMBI, as well as phosphorylation of ERK1/2 induced by TGF‐β1. U0126, a specific inhibitor for mitogen‐activated and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase kinases 1/2 (MEK‐1/2), completely blocked TGF‐β1‐induced MCP‐1 expression. Knockdown of the BAMBI gene promoted phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and TGF‐β1‐induced expression of MCP‐1. Overexpression of BAMBI inhibited phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and TGF‐β1‐induced upregulation of MCP‐1.

Conclusion

In rat renal tubular epithelial cells, metformin prevents TGF‐β1‐induced MCP‐1 expression, in which BAMBI‐mediated inhibition of MEK/ERK1/2 might be involved.
Effect of radiofrequency on epicardial myocardium after ablation of ventricular arrhythmias from within coronary sinus
Authors: Candemir Basar , Ozyurek Elif , Vurgun Kutay , Turan Nazli , Duzen Veysel , Goksuluk Huseyin , Ozyuncu Nil , Kurklu Seda , Altin Timucin , Akyurek Omer , Erol Cetin
Published: June 2018

Background

Radiofrequency (RF) ablation of idiopathic ventricular arrhythmias (IVA) from the coronary venous system (CVS) has been increasingly performed, but real effect of ablation lesions from CVS on epicardial myocardium has not been studied.

Objective

To compare effects of RF delivered inside the distal CVS during ablation of IVAs originating from left ventricular summit (LVS) with IVAs ablated from right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI).

Methods

Twenty consecutive patients with IVAs who underwent acutely successful RF ablation at initial appropriate sites, i.e., distal CVS (Group 1, n = 10) or RVOT (Group 2; n = 10) were enrolled. Detailed contrast‐enhanced CMRI of each patient was performed 3 months later. Presence and location of scars, distance of CVS to epicardial ventricular myocardium were measured and analyzed.

Results

Group 1 consisted of 10 and Group 2 consisted of 10 patients. Three months after the ablation, only three patients in Group 1 had detectable late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) on CMRI while nine out of 10 patients in Group 2 had evident LGE on CMRI (P: 0.02). The mean distance of distal CVS to epicardial anterobasal myocardium was measured to be 8.8 ± 1.6 mm in Group 1. In three cases that had detectable scar on superior anterobasal LV epicardium, the mean distance was 7.4 ± 1.1 mm.

Conclusions

RF delivery inside the CVS is less likely to produce detectable LGE on CMRI compared to RVOT. This may partially explain less than ideal long‐term results after ablation of LVS IVAs from within the great cardiac vein/anterior interventricular vein.
Esophageal carcinosarcoma comprised of minimally invasive squamous cell carcinoma and undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma: A collision cancer?
Authors: Miyauchi Jun , Ogura Masaharu , Sato Michio , Matsui Junichi
Published: June 2018

Esophageal carcinosarcoma is a rare neoplasm with components of squamous cell carcinoma and sarcomatous spindle cell stroma. The latter may show overt mesenchymal differentiation but is thought to be derived from carcinoma cells in most cases. Here, we report a case of esophageal carcinosarcoma that appeared to be comprised of different origins of epithelial and mesenchymal tumor cells. The sarcomatous component formed an intralumial pedunculated large mass lesion that consisted of pleomorphic atypical histiocyte‐like cells. The squamous epithelium exhibited features of mostly dysplasia with minor foci of microinvasive squamous cell carcinoma. The invasive carcinoma was apart from the sarcoma, and no transitions were observed between the epithelial and sarcomatous cells. Immunohistochemistry showed that the sarcoma cells did not express any lineage‐specific markers, including those for epithelial cells and histiocytes, which lead to the diagnosis of undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma. Although cyclin D1 was overexpressed in the carcinoma cells, it was nearly negative in the sarcoma cells. These findings indicate that the tumor may be a collision carcinosarcoma. It is highly likely that the patient's history of heavy smoking and alcohol consumption were relevant to the pathogenesis, at least for the epithelial component, of the tumor.
Significant age‐ and gender‐related variability of main lymphocyte subsets in paediatric patients: Latvian data
Authors: Nikulshin Sergey , Kundzina Linda , Tolstikova Iveta , Gravele Dagne , Prokofjeva Tatjana , Gardovska Dace
Published: June 2018

Age‐ and gender‐related variability of main lymphocyte subsets (T, B and NK cell absolute counts and percentages from Ly; T4, T8 and DN cell absolute counts and percentages from lymphocytes and from T cells; T4:T8 and T:B ratios) was studied in a large cohort of paediatric patients (2 days‐17 years) at yearly intervals. A total of 4128 six‐color TBNK tests performed on BD FACSCanto II flow cytometer were assessed; patients with immune deficiencies and tumours were not included. The study revealed significant age‐ and gender‐related changes in all subsets. Absolute counts of T, B, T4 cells dropped from neonates to adolescents, decrease in T8 and NK cells was milder; relative count of T cells increased with age and that of B cells decreased; T4:T8 ratio went down and T:B ratio grew. Total T, T4 cells and T4:T8 ratio were significantly higher in girls, while T8, NK and DN cells were significantly higher in boys; significantly higher relative and absolute B cell counts in boys appeared in adolescence. We compared our results with reference values for healthy children (Tosato et al, Cytometry A. 2015;87:81); there was a good concordance, except for DN cells. Advantages of using patient cohort instead of healthy children as reference, possibilities for adjusting age‐ and gender‐specific reference ranges and potential international data pooling are discussed.
Molecular mimicry: An explanation for autoimmune diseases and infertility
Authors: Thaper Deepali , Prabha Vijay
Published: June 2018

Microorganisms execute an enthralling range of adjustments to survive in the host. Among the various strategies employed by microorganisms to surmount the host immune response, the phenomenon of molecular mimicry empowers the microorganisms to manoeuvre host physiology and cellular functions for their own advantage by mimicking the host proteins and initiating autoimmunity. This phenomena, by and large, has been studied in context of autoimmune diseases; however, its implications have also been reported in infertility. Hence, in this article, we provide a review of the various instances of molecular mimicry initiated by bacteria, parasites and viruses in the world of autoimmune diseases and infertility.
Critical micelle concentration and particle size determine adjuvanticity of cyclic lipopeptides
Authors: Yoshino Naoto , Takeshita Ryosuke , Kawamura Hanae , Murakami Kazuyuki , Sasaki Yutaka , Sugiyama Ikumi , Sadzuka Yasuyuki , Kagabu Masahiro , Sugiyama Toru , Muraki Yasushi , Sato Shigehiro
Published: June 2018

Cyclic lipopeptides such as surfactin and polymyxin have potent mucosal adjuvant properties. Cyclic lipopeptides are tensioactive compounds, but the relationship between adjuvanticity and surface activity is unknown. Here, we show that the critical micelle concentration (cmc) of surfactant and particle size of the surfactant‐protein complex are important determinants of cyclic lipopeptide adjuvanticity. We found that the diameter of cyclic lipopeptide‐ovalbumin (OVA) complex particles was significantly larger than that in the solutions of OVA alone at cyclic lipopeptide concentrations above the cmc. OVA‐specific antibody titres in mice immunized intranasally with OVA and a cyclic lipopeptide at concentrations above its cmc were significantly higher than those in mice immunized with OVA plus the same dose of the cyclic lipopeptide but administered with formulations in which cyclic lipopeptide concentration was below the cmc. Thus, the concentration of the cyclic lipopeptide in the formulation at immunization, but not its overall dose, was critical for its adjuvanticity. Furthermore, two types of aggregates, the cyclic lipopeptide simplex micelles and the cyclic lipopeptide‐OVA complex micelles, were found in formulations with SF concentrations above its cmc. Degranulation of mast cells exposed to SF simplex micelles was more pronounced when SF concentration was above the cmc. In conclusion, our study showed that surface activity properties, such as the cmc and the size of surfactant‐protein complex, contribute to the adjuvanticity of cyclic lipopeptides. Our study proposes a novel idea that cmc is a key parameter for tensioactive adjuvants.
Identifying the best body‐weight‐status index associated with metabolic risk in youth
Authors: Gomes Thayse Natacha , Nevill Alan , Katzmarzyk Peter T. , Pereira Sara , dos Santos Marcos Moura , Buranarugsa Rojapon , dos Santos Fernanda Karina , Souza Michele , Chaves Raquel , Maia José
Published: June 2018

This study investigated the association of six different anthropometric markers with metabolic syndrome to find the most suited to predict children at risk. Sample comprises 1324 Portuguese youth (701 girls, 623 boys), aged 10‐17 years. Six anthropometric markers were included: body mass index (BMI), BMI z‐score, tri‐ponderal index (TPI), waist circumference (WC), WC/height ratio (WC/H), and WC/H adjusted ratio (WC/Hadj). A standardized metabolic risk score (zMR) was computed by summing of standardized values for fasting glucose, triglycerides, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and mean arterial blood pressure. The associations between zMR and anthropometric markers were assessed using univariate and multivariate analyses. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to identify the optimal values that best predict metabolic risk of each anthropometric marker. Among the studied predictors, BMI z‐score, followed by BMI and WC, was most highly associated with zMR, while WC/Hadj was the weakest predictor. ROC analyses showed significant AUCs for all markers, yet the discrimination was poor (AUCs from 0.60 to 0.68), with sensitivity ranging from 45.5% to 67.5% and specificity from 72.6% to 81.9%. The optimal cut‐off values to predict metabolic risk were 1.62, 23.1 kg/m2, 71.0 cm, 18.0 kg/m3, 0.47, and 0.50, for BMI z‐score, BMI, WC, TPI, WC/H, and WC/Hadj, respectively. BMI z‐score, followed by BMI and WC, were the most relevant anthropometric markers to predict metabolic risk in youth, while WC/Hadj was the worst predictor. Results suggest that anthropometric markers should continue to be used as clinical tools to identify youth at risk.
Learning the Adoption of Mushroom Farming Partnership: A Case Study of Farmers and an Enterprise from Cianjur Distric, West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Febrianda Rendi , Tokuda Hiromi
Published: June 2018

Mushroom farming is one of the profitable agribusiness especially for rural areas in developing countries. It can be adopted and applied as a sideline or main business. Through a partnership, farmers are indeed able to resolve their falter caused by production problems and market challenges. However, some questions emerge about the effectiveness of partnerships. Learning the adoption of the partnership specifically on mushroom farming can provide more understanding about its strengths and its weaknesses for further better use. This study aims to review the adoption process and the experience of an informal partnership case between a mushroom enterprise and farmers using qualitative and non-parametric quantitative approaches framed by Rogers’s innovation–decision process. The result shows that the partnership delivers ample benefits for the farmers and is recommended especially for rural society in certain conditions, though before and after the implementation, some issues were found, and suggestions are given for improvement.
Mobility and Habitation Adaptation: A Case Study Migrant Muslims in Lanzhou City, China
Authors: Gao Xiang , Ma Hua Xiao , Zhao Hao
Published: June 2018

Viewed from a spatial perspective and based on information from 1467 surveys samples conducted from 2015 to 2016, a case study of mobility and habitation adaption of migrant Muslims in Lanzhou city of China has been carried out using ArcGIS. The results show that: 1) the sources of migrant Muslims in Lanzhou are dominated by two ethnic regions, Linxia Autonomous Hui Prefecture approximately 160 km from Lanzhou, and Tianshui Zhangjiachuan Autonomous County 380 km from Lanzhou. Together the regions account for 56.5% of the sample respondents. To a great extent, the ethnic homogeneity related Muslims between the origin and Lanzhou city helps push migration; 2) the 40 sending regions from which migrant Muslims originate display a “core-margin” and “string of bead” spatial structure, and most sending regions are scattered within 20 km along the principal corresponding artery leading into & out of Lanzhou. Traffic improvement can lead to some changes to the double “core-margin” structure from basic “core-margin” to spindly “core-margin” along the corresponding artery; (3) the traditional pattern of “dwell and work around mosque” of migrant Muslims in Lanzhou is weakening. On the one hand, 46.2% of migrant Muslims dwell away and 50.1% of them work away from mosque; on the other hand from July 2015 to July 2016 123 migrants removed from their original dwelling places and 197 migrants from their original places of working around mosque to be scattered in Lanzhou city. The reason for decentralization includes the increasing spatial spread of Muslim-culture-focused catering, the weakening of traditional ethnic consciousness and personal independence.
Ego-Resiliency, Parenting Style, and Peer Attachment as Predictors of South Korean Middle School Students’ School Adjustment
Authors: Um Byeolbee
Published: June 2018

The purpose of this study is to identify the relative contribution of South Korean middle school students' ego-resiliency, parenting style, and peer attachment in predicting their school adjustment. For this purpose, only South Korean 7th graders’ cross-sectional data of 2016 were extracted from the Korean Children and Youth Panel Survey (KCYPS) and then, using SPSS version 24.0, analyzed by Pearson's correlation coefficient and hierarchical multiple regression. The results were as follows. First, there were significant positive correlations between ego-resiliency, parenting style, peer attachment, and school adjustment variables, except for some relationships within and between sub-variables of them. Second, ego-resiliency, parenting style, and peer attachment made a significant prediction for school adjustment and its sub-variables in order of ego-resiliency, parenting style, and peer attachment. Subsequently, the present research discussed these findings’ implications with the previous works.
Individualism-Collectivism as the Dimension Distinguishing the Western from the Eastern Culture
Authors: Her DaYeon , Joo HyunGyung
Published: June 2018

Individualism (IND)-collectivism (COL) has been the most popular dimension separating the West from the East. As the recent findings relating to IND-COL by national and ethnic groups become divergent, however, some investigators are challenging IND-COL as the most representative framework dividing into the West and the East. For this reason, focusing on some issues that are supposed to cause inconsistent findings regarding IND-COL, it requires making IND-COL investigations examined and, in turn, elaborated. In the context of supporting the elaboration, this review tries to provide some suggestions as follows. First, it is necessary to analyze and set up the concept of IND-COL precisely. Second, cultural psychologists need to elaborate instruments and introduce social-ecological variables, cultural products, and qualitative approach. Third, there need to diversify the sampling target. Fourth, future research requires specifying the sampling target more specifically. Fifth, IND-COL studies need to solve the issue due to the level of analysis.
A migratory shark bone
Authors: Mathew Elizabeth , Myuran Tharsika , Ching Hoi-Yi
Published: June 2018

Fish bone ingestion is a common presentation in ENT. If not managed correctly, it can cause serious complications for the patient and dilemmas for the clinician. A 49-year-old Sri Lankan woman presented to the emergency department following shark bone ingestion with a ‘pricking’ sensation in her throat. After initial investigation, the bone migrated through to the sternocleidomastoid muscle. After surgical removal of the shark bone she went on to develop a large neck collection, which required surgical drainage. The careful attention to the patient’s history and use of imaging facilitated treatment in this case of fish bone ingestion and management of the sequelae.
Epidemiology of injuries in outdoor and indoor hockey players over one season: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Hollander Karsten , Wellmann Kai , Eulenburg Christine zu , Braumann Klaus-Michael , Junge Astrid , Zech Astrid
Published: June 2018

Objectives

To determine the incidence and characteristics of hockey (‘field hockey’) injuries over the course of one outdoor and indoor season. Comparisons of female versus male players, outdoor versus indoor season and match versus practice were performed.

Methods

Female and male teams of the first, second, third, regional and youth divisions were recruited among a local hockey association in Northern Germany, and followed over an indoor and an outdoor season. Exposure times and location, type, severity and cause of injuries during practice and matches were documented by the coaches or medical staff and collected weekly. Prevalence and incidence rates were calculated.

Results

Of the 232 players (mean±SD age 20.7±4.7 years, 68.1% male, 31.9% first division), 84 players (36.2%) suffered 108 new injuries during the season. The overall incidence rate was 3.7 injuries per 1000 player hours (95% CI 3.0 to 4.4). The injury incidence was lower in practice (2.7 per 1000 player practice hours, 95% CI 2.0 to 3.3) than in matches (9.7 per 1000 player match hours, 95% CI 6.8 to 12.7), and was similar for female and male players as well as during the outdoor and the indoor season. Most injuries affected the lower limb (thigh, knee and ankle) and occurred without contact (58.3%). Severe injuries (n=34; 31.5%) were predominantly located at the knee and hand/finger.

Conclusion

Hockey players have a high prevalence and incidence of injuries, especially at the lower limb.
Use of an educational, audiovisual podcast to maximise safety with variable rate intravenous insulin infusions
Authors: Field Hannah Tamara , Woodier Nicholas , Clayton Jenny , Plichta Piotr , Teo Kuok Shern
Published: June 2018

Variable rate intravenous insulin infusions (VRIII) are used to maintain stable blood glucose in hospitalised patients with diabetes who are unable to eat or have a severe illness where good glycaemic control is paramount. With VRIII it is important to prescribe an adequate substrate to avoid hypoglycaemia and maintain electrolyte balance. Traditionally the substrate would have been varied to achieve this; current guidelines advise varying the infusion rate rather than the type of substrate. The local hospital Trust updated their VRIII prescription chart to reflect the Joint British Diabetes Societies’ suggestions for inpatient care in October 2014. A local audit in January 2015 highlighted that 48% of patients on VRIII were prescribed the correct fluid as per the guideline. A questionnaire to assess prescriber knowledge regarding VRIII showed 40.4% of prescribers selected appropriate fluid for a patient with normal renal function and 11.5% of prescribers selected appropriate fluid for a patient with renal failure. An educational podcast was devised to explain the rationale behind appropriate fluid prescription with VRIII; this was shown to prescribers. Following the podcast, 75.8% of prescribers selected appropriate fluids for normal renal function and 54.5% for renal failure. Questionnaires were completed to assess prescriber knowledge prepodcast and postpodcast. Following the podcast, there was a significant increase in questionnaire scores, indicating improved prescriber knowledge surrounding VRIII. A reaudit of prescriptions for VRIII showed improvement in practice, where 63% of patients on VRIII were prescribed correct fluids. The use of a simple audiovisual podcast on VRIII led to a significant improvement in prescriber knowledge. Podcasts are an ideal medium to raise awareness around safety issues, including safe prescription of insulin. Further work will include the follow-up of participants to evaluate sustained knowledge and improvements of prescriptions in practice, with the overall aim of improving patient safety.