bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BCAT1 overexpression is an indicator of poor prognosis in patients with urothelial carcinomas of the upper urinary tract and urinary bladder
Authors: Chang I‐Wei , Wu Wen‐Jen , Wang Yu‐Hui , Wu Ting‐Feng , Liang Peir‐In , He Hong‐Lin , Yeh Bi‐Wen , Li Chien‐Feng
Published: July 2015

Aims

Amino acid biosynthesis is one of the cardinal events of carcinogenesis that has not been investigated in urothelial carcinoma (UC). By data‐mining a published transcriptomic database of UCs of urinary bladder (UBUCs) (GSE31684), we identified branched‐chain amino acid transaminase 1 (BCAT1) as the most significantly stepwise up‐regulated gene during tumour progression among those associated with the amino acid biosynthetic process (GO:0008652). Accordingly, we analysed BCAT1 transcript and protein expression with their clinicopathological significance.

Methods and results

We used real‐time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) to detect BCAT1 transcript levels in 20 UCs of upper tract (UTUCs) and 20 UBUCs, respectively. Immunohistochemical study was performed to determine BCAT1 protein expression in 340 UTUCs and 295 UBUCs. Higher BCAT1 transcript levels were associated with higher pT status in both groups (P < 0.05). BCAT1 protein overexpression was also associated significantly with adverse clinicopathological features, e.g. advanced pT stage, nodal metastasis, high pathological grade, etc. (P < 0.05). BCAT1 overexpression predicted worse disease‐specific survival and metastasis‐free survival in both univariate and multivariate analyses (P ≤ 0.001).

Conclusion

BCAT1 overexpression is associated with advanced tumour status, and implies adverse clinical outcomes of UCs, suggesting that its role in tumour progression could serve as a prognostic biomarker and a novel therapeutic target in UC.
Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) translocation in paediatric malignant peritoneal mesothelioma: a case report of novel ALK‐related tumour spectrum
Authors: Loharamtaweethong Kongsak , Puripat Napaporn , Aoonjai Nadda , Sutepvarnon Apisada , Bandidwattanawong Chanyoot
Published: July 2015

Aims

To report a case of paediatric malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM) with evidence of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) translocation.

Methods and results

We describe a 10‐year‐old girl who presented with abdominal pain and progressive abdominal distension. She had no history of asbestos exposure. Histopathological, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural analyses were performed and showed a biphasic malignant mesothelioma. In addition, we also studied on a selected set of immunomarkers which may be the potential therapeutic molecular targets including ALK, c‐kit (CD117), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2)/neu, as well as corresponding molecular analysis. Consequently, we identified ALK expression by immunohistochemistry, together with evidence of ALK translocation by fluorescent in‐situ hybridization (FISH) analysis.

Conclusions

Paediatric MPM is associated with ALK translocation in our case. The results may open up a new avenue for the study of molecular genesis of paediatric malignant mesothelioma in the future and help to determine whether patients MMs with ALK translocation would benefit from ALK inhibitor treatment.
The ASSURE study: HIV‐1 suppression is maintained with bone and renal biomarker improvement 48 weeks after ritonavir discontinuation and randomized switch to abacavir/lamivudine + atazanavir
Authors: Wohl DA , Bhatti L , Small CB , Edelstein H , Zhao HH , Margolis DA , DeJesus E , Weinberg WG , Ross LL , Shaefer MS
Published: July 2015

Objectives

HIV treatment guidelines endorse switching or simplification of antiretroviral therapy in therapy‐experienced patients with suppressed viraemia; ritonavir discontinuation may also enhance tolerability and reduce long‐term adverse events (AEs). This open‐label, multicentre, noninferiority study enrolled HIV‐1‐infected, treatment‐experienced adults with confirmed HIV‐1 RNA ≤ 75 HIV‐1 RNA copies/mL currently receiving tenofovir/emtricitabine + atazanavir/ritonavir (TDF/FTC + ATV/r) for ≥ 6 months with no reported history of virological failure.

Methods

Participants were randomized 1:2 to continue current treatment or switch to abacavir/lamivudine + atazanavir (ABC/3TC + ATV). Endpoints included the proportion of participants with HIV‐1 RNA < 50 copies/mL by time to loss of virological response (TLOVR), AEs, fasting lipids, and inflammatory, coagulation, bone and renal biomarkers.

Results

After 48 weeks, 76% (152 of 199) of ABC/3TC + ATV‐treated and 79% (77 of 97) of TDF/FTC + ATV/r‐treated participants had HIV‐1 RNA < 50 copies/mL (TLOVR; P = 0.564). Other efficacy analyses yielded similar results. Rates of new grade 2–4 AEs were 45% in both groups, but an excess of hyperbilirubinaemia made the rate of treatment‐emergent grade 3–4 laboratory abnormalities higher with TDF/FTC + ATV/r (36%) compared with ABC/3TC + ATV (19%). Most fasting lipid levels remained stable over time; high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol increased modestly in ABC/3TC + ATV‐treated participants. Bone and renal biomarkers improved significantly between baseline and week 48 in participants taking ABC/3TC + ATV and were stable in participants taking TDF/FTC + ATV/r. No significant changes occurred in any inflammatory or coagulation biomarker within or between treatment groups.

Conclusions

The ABC/3TC + ATV treatment‐switch group had similar viral suppression rates up to 48 weeks to the TDF/FTC + ATV/r comparator group, with lower rates of moderate‐ to high‐grade hyperbilirubinaemia and improvements in bone and renal biomarkers.
Healthcare providers' knowledge of, attitudes to and practice of pre‐exposure prophylaxis for HIV infection
Authors: Desai M , Gafos M , Dolling D , McCormack S , Nardone A ,   PROUD study
Published: July 2015

Objectives

Pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has proven biological efficacy in reducing the risk of sexual acquisition of HIV. Healthcare providers' (HCPs) knowledge of and attitudes to PrEP will be key to successful implementation. In England, PrEP is only available to men who have sex with men (MSM) through the open‐label randomized PROUD pilot study of immediate or deferred use.

Methods

In September 2013, a cross‐sectional survey of UK HCPs distributed through sexual health clinics (219) and professional societies' email lists (2599) and at a conference (80) asked about knowledge of, attitudes to and practice of PrEP.

Results

Overall, 328 of 2898 (11%) completed the survey, of whom 160 of 328 (49%) were doctors, 51 (16%) sexual health advisers (SHAs), 44 (14%) nurses and 73 (22%) unspecified. Over a quarter (83 of 311; 27%) were involved in PROUD. Most respondents (260 of 326; 80%) rated their knowledge of PrEP as medium or high. Over half of respondents (166 of 307; 54%) thought PrEP should be available outside of a clinical trial. The main barriers to supporting PrEP availability outside a clinical trial were concerns about current evidence (odds ratio [OR] 0.13), lack of UK‐specific guidance (OR 0.35), concerns about adherence (OR 0.38) and risk of sexual or physical coercion for patients to have condomless or higher risk sex (OR 0.42 in multivariate regression). Just over half (147 of 277; 53%) had been asked about PrEP by patients in the past year, including almost half of those working in a clinic not involved in the PROUD study (86 of 202; 43%).

Conclusions

There is support for PrEP availability outside a clinical trial, but HCPs have residual concerns about its effectiveness and negative consequences, and the absence of UK‐specific implementation guidance.
Predictors of interest in taking pre‐exposure prophylaxis among men who have sex with men who used a rapid HIV‐testing site in Montreal (Actuel sur Rue)
Authors: Lebouché B , Engler K , Machouf N , Lessard D , Thomas R
Published: July 2015

Objectives

The effective use of pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) as an HIV prevention strategy depends on its uptake by individuals at high risk of infection. Few Canadian data are available on interest in PrEP among men who have sex with men (MSM). This study aimed to identify predictors of interest in PrEP among MSM clients of a rapid HIV‐testing site in Montreal's gay village (Actuel sur Rue).

Methods

Data were collected using a self‐administered and a community agent‐administered questionnaire. Among men reporting at least one male sexual partner and visiting the site between July 2012 and November 2013, we aimed to identify sociodemographic, sexual and temporal predictors of interest in taking effective PrEP with logistic regression analyses (univariate and multivariable).

Results

Over half (55%; n = 653) of the sample of 1179 MSM were interested in PrEP. Among the 14 variables considered in the univariate analyses, only (younger) age, (greater) number of sexual partners (in the past 3 months), being part of a serodiscordant couple (in the past 12 months), ever combining sex with drugs and temporal events were associated with interest in PrEP at P < 0.20 and were included in the multivariable analyses. In the multivariable model, only being part of a serodiscordant couple [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.56; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.44–4.58], having > 10 partners (aOR 1.73; 95% CI 1.17–2.55) and responding after the publication of Quebec's interim PrEP guidelines (aOR 1.82; 95% CI 1.22–2.71) proved significant.

Conclusions

In this assessment of predictors of PrEP interest among Canadian MSM, partnering issues and the arrival of PrEP guidelines in Quebec (10 July 2013) were most closely linked to PrEP interest.
Thirty‐day hospital readmissions for adults with and without HIV infection
Authors: Berry SA , Fleishman JA , Moore RD , Gebo KA
Published: July 2015

Objectives

Risk‐adjusted 30‐day hospital readmission rate is a commonly used benchmark for hospital quality of care and for Medicare reimbursement. Persons living with HIV (PLWH) may have high readmission rates. This study compared 30‐day readmission rates by HIV status in a multi‐state sample with planned subgroup comparisons by insurance and diagnostic categories.

Methods

Data for all acute care, nonmilitary hospitalizations in nine states in 2011 were obtained from the Healthcare Costs and Utilization Project. The primary outcome was readmission for any cause within 30 days of hospital discharge. Factors associated with readmission were evaluated using multivariate logistic regression.

Results

A total of 5 484 245 persons, including 33 556 (0.6%) PLWH, had a total of 6 441 695 index hospitalizations, including 45 382 (0.7%) among PLWH. Unadjusted readmission rates for hospitalizations of HIV‐uninfected persons and PLWH were 11.2% [95% confidence interval (CI) 11.2, 11.2%] and 19.7% (95% CI 19.3, 20.0%), respectively. After adjustment for age, gender, race, insurance, and diagnostic category, HIV infection was associated with 1.50 (95% CI 1.46, 1.54) times higher odds of readmission. Predicted, adjusted readmission rates were higher for PLWH within every insurance category, including Medicaid [12.9% (95% CI 12.8, 13.0%) and 19.1% (95% CI 18.4, 19.7%) for HIV‐uninfected persons and PLWH, respectively] and Medicare [13.2% (95% CI 13.1, 13.3%) and 18.0% (95% CI 17.4, 18.7%), respectively], and within every diagnostic category.

Conclusions

HIV infection is associated with significantly increased readmission risk independent of demographics, insurance, and diagnostic category. The 19.7% 30‐day readmission rate may serve as a preliminary benchmark for assessing quality of care of PLWH. Policy‐makers may consider adjusting for HIV infection when calculating a hospital's expected readmission rate.
HIV encephalopathy: glial activation and hippocampal neuronal apoptosis, but limited neural repair
Authors: Tauber SC , Staszewski O , Prinz M , Weis J , Nolte K , Bunkowski S , Brück W , Nau R
Published: July 2015

Objectives

HIV infection affects the central nervous system (CNS), frequently causing cognitive impairment. Hippocampal injury impedes the ability to transfer information into memory. Therefore, we aimed to examine neuronal injury and repair in the hippocampal formation in HIV encephalopathy.

Methods

We compared neuropathological findings in 14 autopsy cases after death from systemic complications of HIV infection and in 15 age‐matched HIV‐negative control cases after sudden death from nonneurological causes using immunohistochemistry.

Results

The density of apoptotic granule cells in the dentate gyrus was higher in HIV‐infected than in control cases (P = 0.048). Proliferation of neural progenitor cells in the dentate gyrus was increased in HIV infection (P = 0.028), whereas the density of recently generated TUC‐4 [TOAD (turned on after division)/Ulip/CRMP family 4]‐expressing neurons in this region was not significantly elevated in HIV‐infected cases (P = 0.13). HIV infection caused microglial activation and astrocytosis in the neocortex and hippocampal formation. Conversely, we were unable to detect more pronounced axonal injury in HIV‐infected than in control cases.

Conclusions

As in other infections involving the CNS, apoptosis of hippocampal neurons accompanied by microglial activation and astrocytosis is a prominent feature of HIV encephalopathy. The regenerative potential, assessed using the density of young neurons in the hippocampal dentate gyrus, in HIV infection appears to be lower than in acute bacterial meningitis and septic encephalitis.
A Social Capital Approach to Assisting Veterans Through Recovery and Desistance Transitions in Civilian Life
Authors: ALBERTSON KATHERINE , IRVING JAMIE , BEST DAVID
Published: July 2015

While only a minority of veterans experience transitional difficulties after military service, there is increasing recognition of the unique challenges that some veterans face, including involvement with the criminal justice system, mental health problems and substance misuse. There is growing acknowledgment that both recovery from substance misuse and desistance from crime are lived transitional processes grounded in social relationships and community. This article reports on the potential of the comradeship and mutual resilience that underpin military life being redirected to support recovery and desistance journeys, through assertive linkage to peer support and community activities, describing a new initiative and an innovative evaluation model.
Soil pH and organic matter content add explanatory power to Northern Lapwing Vanellus vanellus distribution models and suggest soil amendment as a conservation measure on upland farmland
Authors: McCallum Heather M. , Park Kirsty J. , O'brien Mark G. , Gimona Alessandro , Poggio Laura , Wilson Jeremy D.
Published: July 2015

Habitat associations of farmland birds are well studied, yet few have considered relationships between species distribution and soil properties. Charadriiform waders (shorebirds) depend upon penetrable soils, rich in invertebrate prey. Many species, such as the Northern Lapwing Vanellus vanellus, have undergone severe declines across Europe, despite being targeted by agri‐environment measures. This study assessed whether there were additive effects of soil variables (depth, pH and organic matter content) in explaining Lapwing distribution, after controlling for known habitat relationships, at 89 farmland sites across Scotland. The addition of these soil variables and their association with elevation improved model fit by 55%, in comparison with models containing only previously established habitat relationships. Lapwing density was greatest at sites at higher elevation, but only those with less peaty and less acidic soil. Lapwing distribution is being constrained between intensively managed lowland farmland with favourable soil conditions and upland sites where lower management intensity favours Lapwings but edaphic conditions limit their distribution. Trials of soil amendments such as liming are needed on higher elevation grassland sites to test whether they could contribute to conservation management for breeding Lapwings and other species of conservation concern that depend upon soil‐dwelling invertebrates in grassland soils, such as Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata, Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris and Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus. Results from such trials could support improvement and targeting of agri‐environment schemes and other conservation measures in upland grassland systems.
Using miniaturized radiotelemetry to discover the breeding grounds of the endangered New Zealand Storm Petrel Fregetta maoriana
Authors: Rayner Matt J. , Gaskin Chris P. , Fitzgerald Neil B. , Baird Karen A. , Berg Martin M. , Boyle David , Joyce Leigh , Landers Todd J. , Loh Graeme G. , Maturin Sue , Perrimen Lyndon , Scofield R. Paul , Simm Joanna , Southey Ian , Taylor Graeme A. , Tennyson Alan J. D. , Robertson Bruce C. , Young Megan , Walle Richard , Ismar Stefanie M. H.
Published: July 2015

Identification of breeding sites remains a critical step in species conservation, particularly in procellariiform seabirds whose threat status is of global concern. We designed and conducted an integrative radiotelemetry approach to uncover the breeding grounds of the critically endangered New Zealand Storm Petrel Fregetta maoriana (NZSP), a species considered extinct before its rediscovery in 2003. Solar‐powered automated radio receivers and hand‐held telemetry were used to detect the presence of birds on three island groups in the Hauraki Gulf near Auckland, New Zealand. At least 11 NZSP captured and radiotagged at sea were detected at night near Te Hauturu‐o‐Toi/Little Barrier Island with the detection of an incubating bird leading to the discovery of the first known breeding site for this species. In total, four NZSP breeding burrows were detected under mature forest canopy and three adult NZSP and two NZSP chicks were ringed. Telemetry data indicated NZSP showed strong moonlight avoidance behaviour over the breeding site, had incubation shifts of approximately 5 days and had a breeding season extending from February to June/July, a different season from other Procellariiformes in the region. Radiotelemetry, in combination with rigorously collected field data on species distribution, offers a valuable technique for locating breeding grounds of procellariiform seabirds and gaining insights into breeding biology while minimizing disturbance to sensitive species or damage to fragile habitat. Our study suggests an avenue for other breeding ground searches in one of the most threatened avian Orders, and highlights the general need for information on the location of breeding sites and understanding the breeding biology in data‐deficient birds.
Effect of dentine phosphophoryn‐derived RGD peptides on odontoblast‐like cells
Authors: Tang J. , Saito T.
Published: July 2015

Aim

To investigate the effect of RGD peptides derived from dentine phosphophoryn (DPP) on odontoblast‐like cell in terms of differentiation and mineralization.

Methodology

Mouse dental papilla cell line (MDPC‐23), a rat odontoblast‐like cell line, was used. Briefly, RGD peptides (RGD‐1: SESDNNSSSRGDASYNSDES, RGD‐2: ANSESDNNSSSRGDA, RGD‐3: SRGDASYNSDESKD) were immobilized onto tissue culture polystyrene dishes (TCPS) assisted by carbodiimide chemistry. Surface characterization including carboxyl group quantification and amino acid analysis was carried out to ensure the existence of peptides on plates. Cells were inoculated to those peptides‐modified and control dishes. Next, cell morphology was observed under phase contrast microscopy; cell numbers were counted manually using a hemocytometer. Furthermore, differentiation was examined by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity quantification, conventional and real‐time RT‐PCR. Finally, calcific deposition was observed by alizarin red staining and quantified using the cetylpyridinium chloride extraction method. Differences between the experimental groups and the control group were analysed statistically using one‐way anova and Tukey's multiple comparison tests.

Results

Peptides were immobilized onto TCPS successfully as evidenced by carboxyl group density and amino acid analysis. Cell morphology remained unchanged between peptides‐immobilized groups and control, but adhered cell numbers were higher on those peptides‐immobilized dishes (significant differences existed between RGD‐1‐0.5 with control, RGD‐2‐0.1 with control, and RGD‐3‐0.5 with control, respectively). RGD‐3‐0.5 exhibited the highest ALP activity on day 7 (P < 0.05) and promoted a twofold greater DMP‐1 mRNA expression compared to the control on day 10 (P < 0.05). RGD peptides grafted dishes accelerated the mineralization of cells, amongst the experimental groups tested, RGD‐3 groups (comprising RGD‐3‐0.1 and RGD‐3‐0.5) had significantly higher amounts of calcific deposition as compared to the control (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

RGD peptides originated from DPP especially RGD‐3 promoted MDPC‐23 differentiation and mineralization.
Strains of Enterococcus faecalis differ in their ability to coexist in biofilms with other root canal bacteria
Authors: Chávez de Paz L. E. , Davies J. R. , Bergenholtz G. , Svensäter G.
Published: July 2015

Aim

To investigate the relationship between protease production and the ability of Enterococcus faecalis strains to coexist in biofilms with other bacteria commonly recovered from infected root canals.

Methodology

Biofilms with bacteria in mono‐, dual‐ and four‐species communities were developed in flow chambers. The organisms used were Lactobacillus salivarius, Streptococcus gordonii and Actinomyces naeslundii and E. faecalis strains, GUL1 and OG1RF. Biovolume and species distribution were examined using 16S rRNA fluorescence in situ hybridization in combination with confocal microscopy and image analysis. The full proteome of the E. faecalis strains was studied using two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis. Spots of interest were identified using tandem mass spectroscopy and quantified using Delta 2D software.

Results

All bacteria formed biofilms and an anova analysis revealed that the biofilm biomass increased significantly (P ≤ 0.01) between 6 and 24 h. L. salivarius, S. gordonii and A. naeslundii formed mutualistic biofilm communities, and this pattern was unchanged when E. faecalis GUL1 was included in the consortium. However, with OG1RF, L. salivarius and S. gordonii were outcompeted in a 24‐h biofilm. Proteomic analysis revealed that OG1RF secreted higher levels of proteases, GelE (P = 0.02) and SprE (P = 0.002) and a previously unidentified serine protease (P = 0.05), than GUL1.

Conclusions

Different strains of E. faecalis can interact synergistically or antagonistically with a consortium of root canal bacteria. A possible mechanism underlying this, as well as potential differences in virulence, is production of different levels of proteases, which can cause detachment of neighbouring bacteria and tissue damage.
Induction of cytotoxicity, oxidative stress and genotoxicity by root filling pastes used in primary teeth
Authors: Pires C. W. , Botton G. , Cadoná F. C. , Machado A. K. , Azzolin V. F. , da Cruz I. B. M. , Sagrillo M. R. , Praetzel J. R.
Published: July 2015

Aim

To evaluate the cytotoxicity, oxidative stress and genotoxicity in vitro of four iodoform pastes and three calcium hydroxide pastes.

Methodology

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and pure calf thymus DNA (dsDNA) were exposed to extracts of the pastes. Cytotoxicity was assessed with the MTT assay. Generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was evaluated using a DCFH‐DA assay, and lipid peroxidation was evaluated using a TBARS assay. Genotoxicity was evaluated using the alkaline comet assay and Genomodifier capacity assay (GEMO). All tests were performed after 24 h and 72 h of cell exposure, except GEMO. After performing the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, data were analysed by Kruskal–Wallis and Dunn's post‐tests, and anova with Dunnett's post‐test, with a significance level established at P < 0.05.

Results

The MTT assay revealed that chlorhexidine, Maxitrol and neomycin sulphate + bacitracin pastes decreased cell viability after 24 h (P < 0.05). No group was associated with a significant decreased cell viability or lipid peroxidation after 72 h. Calcium hydroxide pastes increased the cell viability levels at both experimental times (P < 0.05). Lipid peroxidation was observed with the exposure of cells to calcium hydroxide pastes after 24 h (P < 0.05). Exposure to chlorhexidine, Guedes‐Pinto and calcium hydroxide pastes resulted in a significant increase in ROS after 24 h (P < 0.05), whereas iodoform pastes and Calen thickened with zinc oxide significantly increased the ROS after 72 h (P < 0.05). The comet assay revealed that exposure of the PBMCs to iodoform pastes did not damage DNA at either period of time (P > 0.05). However, chlorhexidine paste caused DNA damage in dsDNA (P < 0.05). Calcium hydroxide pastes caused DNA damage in both tests (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The pastes varied in their ability to induce cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and oxidative stress. In general, Guedes‐Pinto, Maxitrol and neomycin sulphate + bacitracin pastes exhibited better biocompatibility in vitro.
Toxicity of irrigating solutions and pharmacological associations used in pulpectomy of primary teeth
Authors: Botton G. , Pires C. W. , Cadoná F. C. , Machado A. K. , Azzolin V. F. , Cruz I. B. M. , Sagrillo M. R. , Praetzel J. R.
Published: July 2015

Aim

To evaluate the in vitro toxicity of irrigating solutions and pharmacological associations used in the pulpectomy of primary teeth.

Methodology

The cell viability (MTT), lipid peroxidation (TBARS), alkaline comet assay and GEMO tests were performed to evaluate the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of solutions: sodium hypochlorite (1% and 2.5%), 2% chlorhexidine, 6% citric acid and 17% EDTA, which were tested, individually and in association, exposing human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (MTT, TBARS and alkaline comet assay), at 24 and 72 h, and dsDNA (GEMO). After performing the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, data were analysed by anova followed by Dunnett's post hoc test, and Kruskal–Wallis followed by Dunn post hoc test. A significance level was established at P < 0.05.

Results

All irrigating solutions and pharmacological associations reduced cell viability at 24 h (P < 0.05). These reductions were maintained after 72 h, except for EDTA and associations of sodium hypochlorite (1% and 2.5%) with EDTA and of chlorhexidine with EDTA. Lipid peroxidation at 24 h was caused by EDTA and by 2.5% sodium hypochlorite with EDTA; it was also caused at 72 h by sodium hypochlorite (1% and 2.5%) and the three associations with citric acid (P < 0.05). All groups caused DNA damage when assessed by the alkaline comet assay, at 24 h and 72 h (P < 0.05). In the GEMO assay, all groups caused dsDNA damage (P < 0.05), except for chlorhexidine with EDTA.

Conclusion

All groups showed some level of toxicity. Amongst the main solutions, chlorhexidine presented less cytotoxic potential. EDTA was the least cytotoxic of the auxiliary irrigant solutions, and the association of these two solutions showed the lowest toxicity potential amongst all groups.
Combining Egalitarian Working Lives with Traditional Attitudes: Gender Role Attitudes in Taiwan, Japan, and Korea
Authors: Takeuchi Maki , Tsutsui Junya
Published: July 2015

In a simple theoretical framework, egalitarian gender role attitudes emerge as more and more women participate in the labor market. Most advanced Western nations enjoy relatively gender‐egalitarian working environments, and consequently more egalitarian gender attitudes than their East Asian counterparts. Women in East Asian societies, on the other hand, are said to support both the conditions resulting in stagnant female labor‐force participation and traditional attitudes toward gender roles. In Taiwan, however, women are more economically active than in two other East Asian societies—Japan and South Korea—even though women in all three societies favor the traditional gender division of labor. Thus, in Taiwan, women experiencing inconsistencies between their active working lives and their traditional values. This study hypothesizes that this inconsistency, or the coexistence of the old and the new, is reflected in the very mind‐set of women. Using comparative data from the 2006 East Asian Social Survey, we analyzed the gap between responses to questions on gender attitudes in relation to working conditions, and other general gender role attitudes. We found there were significant differences in the size of these gaps. Taiwanese women expressed more egalitarian views insofar as the questions were concerned with practical economic interests, while they retained their basic traditional attitudes towards gender roles in their homes. This gap is larger in Taiwan than in Japan or South Korea.
Screening for common β‐globin gene cluster deletions in Chinese individuals with increased hemoglobin F
Authors: Cai W.‐J. , Li J. , Xie X.‐M. , Li D.‐Z.
Published: July 2015

Introduction

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of β‐globin gene cluster deletions in individuals with increased Hb F levels in a Chinese population.

Methods

Subjects with HbF levels ≥10% were selected for further investigation. Gap‐PCR was used to screen for three common β‐globin gene cluster deletions: Chinese (Aγδβ)0‐thalassemia, Southeast Asian (SEA) deletion and Hb Lepore. Multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) was used to analyze dosage changes of the β‐globin gene cluster for those not associated with one of the three common deletions.

Results

One hundred and thirty‐one individuals had an increased Hb F level; among these, 51 (38.9%) were showed to have Chinese (Aγδβ)0‐thalassemia (n = 37) or SEA deletion (n = 14). A single case of Hb Lepore–Boston–Washington was detected. MLPA only detected 2 deletions in three cases of the remaining 80 patients. Gap‐PCR confirmed that they included a 1357 bp β‐globin gene deletion (NG_000007.3:g.69997_71353del1357) in one case and a HBG2‐HBG1 fusion gene consisting of exons 1 and 2 of HBG2 (Gγ‐globin gene) and exon 3 of HBG1 (Aγ‐globin gene) (HBG2:c.315 + 573_HBG1: c.315 + 572del) in two cases.

Conclusion

The Chinese (Aγδβ)0‐thalassemia and SEA deletion are the most common large deletions of β‐globin gene cluster in Chinese. Gap‐PCR for the detection of these two deletions should be used in thalassemia screening program in China where the incidence of β‐thalassemia is high.
Management of ischemic stroke in Central and Eastern Europe
Authors:   The CEESS Working Group, Budincevic Hrvoje , Tiu Cristina , Bereczki Daniel , Kõrv Janika , Tsiskaridze Alexander , Niederkorn Kurt , Czlonkowska Anna , Demarin Vida
Published: July 2015

Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability in Europe. Central and Eastern European countries have the highest incidence and mortality rates through Europe. The improvements in stroke prevention and treatment in Central and Eastern European countries did not completely reach the quality parameters present in Western European countries. We present features of current management of stroke in Central and Eastern European countries.
Assessing Freedom of Information in Latin America a Decade Later: Illuminating a Transparency Causal Mechanism
Authors: Michener Gregory
Published: July 2015

More than 100 freedom of information (FOI) laws have been enacted worldwide, nearly half within the last 10 years. Yet these cross-domain, lynchpin transparency measures have received little scholarly attention. This article assesses the 16 FOI measures adopted across Latin America. Is secrecy being surrendered in a region marked by legacies of opacity? Why are some laws fulfilling their de jure potential in practice while others are not? This article aims to achieve 3 general objectives. It analyzes the de jure and de facto strength of Latin American FOI regimes; it exposes critical data-based and methodological challenges in evaluating and comparing transparency laws; and it illustrates how a causal mechanism, driven by the interactive dynamics of legislative balances of power and cabinet compositions, has had a determinate influence in shaping the strength of FOI regimes from adoption to implementation and reform.
A Multi‐Ionic Continuum‐Based Model for C3S Hydration
Authors: Gottapu Manohar , Biernacki Joseph J.
Published: July 2015

A computationally efficient strategy for modeling tricalcium silicate hydration based on through‐solution‐phase kinetics is demonstrated. This study extends a recently introduced advanced continuum‐based single particle model by including rigorous multi‐ionic transport, nonlinear reversible reaction kinetics and portlandite precipitation. Model parameters were either fixed based on known values, estimated using experimental measures or extracted by model fitting to benchmark experimental datasets. The model is now able to generate calorimetric hydration and evolution of pore solution chemistry responses that are in good agreement with available experimental results and predictions of other multiphysical modeling platforms. Oncecalibrated, the model was tested to see if it could predict the effect of water to cement ratio (w/c) and particle size on hydration outcomes. The findings support the need for a mechanism that limits the volume into which product can form.
Customary Trade and the Complications of Consent
Authors: Nili Shmuel
Published: July 2015

Global justice theorists have given much attention to corporations' purchases of state‐owned natural resources controlled by dictators. These resources, the common argument goes, belong to the people rather than to those who exercise effective political power. Dictators who rely on violence to secure their political power and who sell state‐owned natural resources without authorisation from their people, or from their people's elected delegates, are therefore violating their peoples' property rights. But many dictatorships also distribute natural resource revenue to the population, and stopping to purchase natural resources from them is therefore likely to produce relative deprivation for the people, even while increasing the chances of the people gaining control over their property. Given these circumstances, can corporations buying the people's natural resources from a distributive dictatorship appeal to the people's consent as justification for such purchases? I consider this question by inspecting three types of consent to which resource corporations might appeal. I show that, under the circumstances of natural resource trade with distributive dictatorships, none of these types of consent can obtain. Hence, resource corporations cannot appeal to popular consent to defend their transactions with distributive dictatorships.
Latitudinal shift in thermal niche breadth results from thermal release during a climate‐mediated range expansion
Authors: Lancaster Lesley T. , Dudaniec Rachael Y. , Hansson Bengt , Svensson Erik I.
Published: July 2015

Aim

Climate change is currently altering the geographical distribution of species, but how this process contributes to biogeographical variation in ecological traits is unknown. Range‐shifting species are predicted to encounter and respond to new selective regimes during their expansion phase, but also carry historical adaptations to their ancestral range. We sought to identify how historical and novel components of the environment interact to shape latitudinal trends in thermal tolerance, thermal tolerance breadth and phenotypic plasticity of a range‐shifting species.

Location

Southern and central Sweden.

Methods

To evaluate phenotypic responses to changes in the thermal selective environment, we experimentally determined the upper and lower thermal tolerances of > 2000 wild‐caught damselflies (Ischnura elegans) from populations distributed across core and expanding range‐edge regions. We then identified changing correlations between thermal tolerance, climate and recent weather events across the range expansion. Niche modelling was employed to evaluate the relative contributions of varying climatic selective regimes to overall habitat suitability for the species in core versus range‐edge regions.

Results

Upper thermal tolerance exhibited local adaptation to climate in the core region, but showed evidence of having been released from thermal selection during the current range expansion. In contrast, chill coma recovery exhibited local adaptation across the core region and range expansion, corresponding to increased climatic variability at higher latitudes. Adaptive plasticity of lower thermal tolerances (acclimation ability) increased towards the northern, expanding range edge.

Main conclusions

Our results suggest micro‐evolutionary mechanisms for several large‐scale and general biogeographical patterns, including spatially and latitudinally invariant heat tolerances (Brett's rule) and increased thermal acclimation rates and niche breadths at higher latitudes. Population‐level processes unique to climate‐mediated range expansions may commonly underpin many broader, macro‐physiological trends.
Body size evolution under character release in the ground beetleCarabus japonicus
Authors: Okuzaki Yutaka , Sugawara Hisashi , Sota Teiji
Published: July 2015

Aim

We tested the hypothesis of character release in body size among allopatric populations of the carabid beetleCarabus japonicusby analysing geographical variation in body size in relation to habitat temperature and sympatry/allopatry with the larger congeneric speciesCarabus dehaanii.

Location

The main and satellite islands of Kyushu in the south‐western part of the Japanese archipelago.

Methods

We studied geographical variation in the body length and genital size ofC. japonicuspopulations at different sites to examine the effects of both habitat temperature and sympatry/allopatry withC. dehaanii. To determine whether the conditions for character release were fulfilled, we then estimated the heritable differences in body size by common garden rearing, and estimated the phylogenetic relationships among populations by molecular phylogenetic analysis.

Results

While body size was positively correlated with annual mean temperature, it was consistently small in sympatry but larger in some allopatric populations in warmer regions. The body size differences among populations were heritable. AllopatricC. japonicuspopulations on satellite islands were derived from the sympatric mainland populations. In a few sympatric areas, mitochondrial haplotypes were shared between the species because of introgressive hybridization, suggesting the occurrence of reproductive interference between the species. We also found that genital size was not affected by sympatry/allopatry, but was positively correlated with body size.

Main conclusions

We demonstrated that the increased body size of allopatricC. japonicushas evolved through a character release process. However, not all allopatric populations had enlarged body size, thus suggesting that some additional environmental factors are also involved. Geographical differentiation in body size and associated genital dimensions may result in prezygotic reproductive isolation among populations and promote allopatric differentiation leading to speciation.
A Note on the Use of Survey Research Firms to Enable Empirical Data Collection
Authors: Schoenherr Tobias , Ellram Lisa M. , Tate Wendy L.
Published: July 2015

This forward thinking article examines the risks and rewards of using survey research firms to enable empirical data collection, and issues a cautionary note about its application. An exposition and discussion of this form of data collection in supply chain management is relevant today, due to the “survey‐fatigue” among the population of business professionals from whom we seek a response. While this approach has some history in other disciplines, it is still relatively new among supply chain management researchers. To help supply chain management scholars assess the appropriateness of this type of data collection method, this forward thinking article provides invaluable guidance as derived from the authors' recent experiences with the approach. As such, we share our observations and lessons learned. The conclusion is that the use of survey research firms for empirical data collection can be a viable, alternative approach to self‐administered surveys. However, care should be taken in its application.
Enhancing the Capacity of School Nurses to Reduce Excessive Anxiety in Children: Development of the CALM Intervention
Authors: Drake Kelly L. , Stewart Catherine E. , Muggeo Michela A. , Ginsburg Golda S.
Published: July 2015

Problem

Excessive anxiety is among the most common psychiatric problems facing youth. Because anxious youth tend to have somatic complaints, many seek help from the school nurse. Thus, school nurses are in an ideal position to provide early intervention. This study addresses this problem and describes the plans to develop and test a new intervention (Child Anxiety Learning Modules; CALM), delivered by school nurses, to reduce child anxiety and improve academic functioning.

Methods

An iterative development process including consultation with an expert panel, two open trials, and a pilot randomized controlled study comparing CALM to usual care is proposed. Feedback will be solicited from all participants during each phase and data on outcome measures will be provided by children, parents, teachers, and independent evaluators.

Findings

Data will be collected on intervention satisfaction and feasibility. Primary outcomes that include child anxiety symptoms, classroom behavior, and school performance (e.g., attendance, grades, standardized test scores) will be collected at pre‐ and post‐interventions and at a 3‐month follow‐up evaluation.

Conclusions

Pediatric anxiety is a common problem that school nurses frequently encounter. Consequently, they are well positioned to play a key role in enhancing access to behavioral health interventions to reduce anxiety and may therefore make a significant positive public health impact.
Predictors and Characteristics of Multiple (More Than 2) Catheter Ablation Procedures for Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: LO LI‐WEI , LIN YENN‐JIANG , CHANG SHIH‐LIN , HU YU‐FENG , CHAO TZE‐FAN , CHUNG FA‐PO , LIAO JO‐NAN , CHIOU CHEUN‐WANG , TSAO HSUAN‐MING , CHEN SHIH‐ANN
Published: July 2015

Characteristics of Multiple AF Ablation Procedures

Background

The recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF) is not uncommon in the era of catheter ablation. This study aimed to evaluate the characteristics of AF patients who underwent multiple (>2) ablation procedures.

Methods and Results

Of 666 consecutive patients (53 ± 11 y/o, 484 men) who underwent catheter ablation of AF (paroxysmal AF, n = 530), 144 (22%) underwent 2 procedures and 52 (8%) underwent more than 2 procedures due to symptomatic recurrences refractory to medication during 48 ± 23 months of follow‐up. Baseline and procedural characteristics at the index procedure were investigated to determine their impact on the necessity of multiple procedures. After 2 procedures, 48 (92%) of 52 patients had pulmonary vein (PV) ectopic beats initiating AF. Coexisting PV and non‐PV triggers were found in 23 of 48 patients. In a multivariate analysis, the presence of non‐PV triggers (P = 0.004; odds ratio 2.69, 95% CI 1.37–5.28) at the index procedure was the only independent predictor of necessary multiple procedures. Among patients with non‐PV ectopic beats initiating AF at the index procedure, the presence of ligament of Marshall triggers (P = 0.001, odds ratio 6.74, 95% CI 2.13–21.32) could predict the necessity of multiple procedures.

Conclusions

The need for multiple catheter ablation procedures can be predicted by the presence of non‐PV ectopic beats initiating AF at the index procedure. However, PV‐initiated AF remains the major cause of AF recurrence despite multiple catheter ablation procedures.
Modifying Ventricular Fibrillation by Targeted Rotor Substrate Ablation: Proof‐of‐Concept from Experimental Studies to Clinical VF
Authors: KRUMMEN DAVID E. , HAYASE JUSTIN , VAMPOLA STEPHEN P. , HO GORDON , SCHRICKER AMIR A. , LALANI GAUTAM G. , BAYKANER TINA , COE TAYLOR M. , CLOPTON PAUL , RAPPEL WOUTER‐JAN , OMENS JEFFREY H. , NARAYAN SANJIV M.
Published: July 2015

Rotor Substrate Ablation Suppresses VF

Introduction

Recent work has suggested a role for organized sources in sustaining ventricular fibrillation (VF). We assessed whether ablation of rotor substrate could modulate VF inducibility in canines, and used this proof‐of‐concept as a foundation to suppress antiarrhythmic drug‐refractory clinical VF in a patient with structural heart disease.

Methods and Results

In 9 dogs, we introduced 64‐electrode basket catheters into one or both ventricles, used rapid pacing at a recorded induction threshold to initiate VF, and then defibrillated after 18±8 seconds. Endocardial rotor sites were identified from basket recordings using phase mapping, and ablation was performed at nonrotor (sham) locations (7 ± 2 minutes) and then at rotor sites (8 ± 2 minutes, P = 0.10 vs. sham); the induction threshold was remeasured after each. Sham ablation did not alter canine VF induction threshold (preablation 150 ± 16 milliseconds, postablation 144 ± 16 milliseconds, P = 0.54). However, rotor site ablation rendered VF noninducible in 6/9 animals (P = 0.041), and increased VF induction threshold in the remaining 3. Clinical proof‐of‐concept was performed in a patient with repetitive ICD shocks due to VF refractory to antiarrhythmic drugs. Following biventricular basket insertion, VF was induced and then defibrillated. Mapping identified 4 rotors localized at borderzone tissue, and rotor site ablation (6.3 ± 1.5 minutes/site) rendered VF noninducible. The VF burden fell from 7 ICD shocks in 8 months preablation to zero ICD therapies at 1 year, without antiarrhythmic medications.

Conclusions

Targeted rotor substrate ablation suppressed VF in an experimental model and a patient with refractory VF. Further studies are warranted on the efficacy of VF source modulation.
Catheter Ablation of Idiopathic Epicardial Ventricular Arrhythmias Originating from the Vicinity of the Coronary Sinus System
Authors: CHEN YI‐HE , LIN JIA‐FENG
Published: July 2015

Catheter Ablation of Idiopathic Epicardial Ventricular Arrhythmias. Idiopathic epicardial ventricular arrhythmias (IEVAs) originating from the vicinity of the coronary sinus system are not uncommon, accounting for about 9% of idiopathic ventricular arrhythmia cases. IEVAs share clinical presentation and electrophysiological characteristics with ventricular arrhythmias arising from the right ventricular outflow tract possibly as manifestations of cAMP‐mediated triggered activity and delayed after‐depolarizations. Detailed analysis of standard 12‐lead electrocardiogram morphology by using unique variables and algorithms allows clinicians to predict probable location of epicardial foci and informs optimal catheter ablation strategy. Epicardial mapping and ablation through the coronary sinus and its branches is effective and safe, and increasingly favored. However, it is important because of the common perivascular origin of IEVAs to perform coronary angiography prior to or after ablation and to select the appropriate ablation energy form to avoid serious complications.