bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Late Pleistocene and early Holocene drainage events in the eastern Fehmarn Belt and Mecklenburg Bight, SW Baltic Sea
Authors: Heinrich Christoph , Anders Sarah , Schwarzer Klaus
Published: December 2017

The Fehmarn Belt is a key area for the Late Pleistocene and Holocene development of the Baltic Sea as it was a passage for marine and fresh water during its different stages. The pre‐Holocene geological development of this area is presented based on the analysis of seismic profiles and sedimentary gravity cores. Late Pleistocene varve sediments of the initial Baltic Ice Lake were identified. An exceptionally thick varve layer, overlain by a section of thinner varves with convolute bedding in turn covered by undisturbed varves with decreasing thicknesses is found in the Fehmarn Belt. This succession, along with a change in varve geochemistry, represents a rapid ice‐sheet withdrawal and increasingly distal sedimentation in front of the ice margin. Two erosional unconformities are observed in the eastern Mecklenburg Bight, one marking the top of the initial Baltic Ice Lake deposits and the second one indicating the end of the final Baltic Ice Lake. These unconformities join in Fehmarn Belt, where deposits of the final Baltic Ice Lake are missing due to an erosional hiatus related to a lake‐level drop during its final drainage. After this lake‐level drop, a lowstand environment represented by river deposits developed. These deposits are covered by lake marls of Yoldia age. Tilting of the early glacial lake sediments indicates a period of vertical movements prior to the onset of the Holocene. Deposits of the earliest stages of the Baltic Sea have been exposed by ongoing erosion in the Fehmarn Belt at the transition to the Mecklenburg Bight.
Physical activity and family‐based obesity treatment: a review of expert recommendations on physical activity in youth
Authors: Foster C. , Moore J. B. , Singletary C. R. , Skelton J. A.
Published: December 2017

Targeting physical inactivity in children is pertinent to aiding in the decrease of childhood obesity rates. Only 33% of adolescents are obtaining the recommended goal of at least 60 min of physical activity per day. The objectives of this review are to summarize professional recommendations for physical activity and exercise in children and adolescents, and identify family‐centred strategies that can be implemented by weight management clinicians. Clinically oriented recommendations and policy statements from professional organizations were identified through literature and internet searches, summarized using rubrics of aerobic, muscle strengthening and bone strengthening exercise, then examined for details on family‐based focus, inclusion of child developmental stage and age, and application to the prevention and treatment of obesity. Current recommendations give guidelines for the amount of physical activity that children should acquire and how many days a week activities should occur. However, available guidelines need an improved approach to addressing the role of the parents and caregivers in targeting physical activity and weight management in youth. Efforts must be taken in order to make sure that the types of physical activity offered are both suitable and enjoyable. Sports, games, free play and other age appropriate activities are adequate ways to increase moderate to vigorous physical activity in children. Differentiating physical activities types in accordance with developmental stage, level of enjoyment, and family characteristics is needed to establish sustainable habits. One paediatric obesity program has developed approaches to teaching families fun and engaging ways to be active together.
Prevalence of comorbidities in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, overlap syndrome and obesity hypoventilation syndrome
Authors: Lacedonia Donato , Carpagnano Giovanna Elisiana , Patricelli Giulia , Carone Mauro , Gallo Crescenzio , Caccavo Incoronata , Sabato Roberto , Depalo Annarita , Aliani Maria , Capozzolo Alberto , Foschino Barbaro Maria Pia
Published: December 2017

Introduction

Sleep‐disordered breathing causes a burden to the sufferer, the health care system and the society. Most studies have focused on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA); however, the prevalence of comorbidities in patients affected by overlap syndrome (OS) and obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS) has not been carefully evaluated.

Study objectives

The principal aim of this study was to identify the presence of comorbidities in patients suffering from OSA, OS, OHS and the differences in three groups of patients. Another purpose was to verify if sleepiness is associated with a greater prevalence of comorbidities.

Methods

A retrospective analysis in 989 adults referred for sleep diagnostic testing to our sleep center was performed. Patients were classified in OSA (721), OS (123) and OHS (145).

Results

The prevalence of comorbidities was higher in patients affected by OS and was the highest in the OHS group, while the prevalence of arterial hypertension is the highest in patients affected by OS. The probability of having more than two comorbidities follows the same trend. Excessive daytime sleepiness was associated with an increased rate of arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus and the presence of multimorbidity in each group of patients.

Conclusions

The presence and the association of comorbidities seem to be higher in patients suffering from OSA, OS and OHS. Subjects suffering of OHS present a high prevalence of main diseases despite their younger age compared with others patients with SDB. Sleepiness may have a role, at least in a subset of these patients, into the development of comorbidities.
Palisading neutrophilic and granulomatous dermatitis as a presentation of Hodgkin lymphoma: A case and review
Authors: Deen Jacqueline , Banney Leith , Perry‐Keene Joanna
Published: December 2017

Palisaded neutrophilic and granulomatous dermatitis (PNGD) is a histopathological diagnosis, characterized by a pattern of granulomatosis, which may be associated with leukocytoclastic vasculitis. PNGD most commonly occurs in association with systemic inflammatory disorders, typically autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythromatosus. There are very rare reports of PNGD in patients with lymphoma. We report the case of a 53‐year‐old female with an erythematous, papular eruption occurring in association with Hodgkin lymphoma. Histopathological evaluation of the rash confirmed PNGD. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of PNGD occurring in association with Hodgkin lymphoma. Although extremely rare, underlying malignancy should be considered in patients with PNGD, particularly in individuals with constitutional symptoms and the absence of an obvious inflammatory etiology.
Das infantile Hämangiom: Pathogenese und Wirkmechanismus von Propranolol
Authors: Rotter Anita , de Oliveira Zilda Najjar Prado
Published: December 2017

Das infantile Hämangiom (IH) ist der häufigste gutartige Tumor im Kindesalter. Die Prävalenz beträgt 4 % bis 10 %. Es ist gekennzeichnet durch eine proliferative schnelle Wachstumsphase, die nach wenigen Lebenswochen beginnt, gefolgt von einer langsamen Regressionsphase. Bei den IH‐Fällen, bei denen eine Entstellung oder lebensbedrohlicher Verlauf zu befürchten ist (10 % bis 15 % aller Fälle), sollte unverzüglich eine systemische Therapie eingeleitet werden.

Datenquelle

Die vorliegende Studie gibt einen Überblick über die publizierten wissenschaftlichen Artikel in zuverlässigen elektronischen Datenbanken. Wir wählten alle Studien aus, welche die Pathogenese des IH und den Wirkmechanismus von Propranolol untersuchten.

Ergebnisse

Die Pathogenese des IH wurde noch nicht vollständig aufgeklärt. Wie Studien zeigen, liegt in der Proliferationsphase des IH ein Ungleichgewicht der angiogenen Faktoren vor. Darüber hinaus steigen die Spiegel des vaskulären endothelialen Wachstumsfaktors (VEGF) und der Matrix‐Metalloproteinasen 2 und 9 an. In der Regressionsphase nehmen die Konzentrationen dieser Faktoren ab, während die Spiegel der anti‐angiogenen Faktoren, darunter die der Gewebeinhibitoren der Matrix‐Metalloproteinasen, zunehmen. Seit 2008 stellt die Behandlung mit Propranolol das Mittel der ersten Wahl dar. Dieses Arzneimittel beeinflusst den Gefäßtonus, die Angiogenese und die Apoptose. Die derzeitigen Kenntnisse über die Pathogenese des IH ermöglicht die Entwicklung neuer therapeutischer Strategien.
Regionale fachärztliche Versorgung und demographischer Wandel in Deutschland – Szenarien zur dermatologischen Versorgung im Jahr 2035
Authors: Kis Anne , Augustin Matthias , Augustin Jobst
Published: December 2017

Hintergrund

Mithilfe der Bedarfsplanungsrichtlinie des Gemeinsamen Bundesausschusses soll die medizinische Versorgung in Deutschland flächendeckend sichergestellt werden. Kalkulatorische Größe zur Abbildung der räumlichen Versorgungssituation ist der „korrigierte Versorgungsgrad“. Vor dem Hintergrund des demographischen Wandels und bereits heute existenter Wiederbesetzungsschwierigkeiten steht die Frage, wie sich die dermatologische Versorgung kleinräumig entwickeln wird.

Methodik

Mit bundesweiten Daten zu Hautarztstandorten sowie aktuellen und prognostizierten Bevölkerungszahlen auf Kreisebene wurde auf Basis der aktuellen Bedarfsplanungsrichtlinie der korrigierte Versorgungsgrad in drei Wiederbesetzungsszenarien (Szenario 1: 100%ige Wiederbesetzung, Szenario 2: Wegfall eines Arztsitzes je Planungsbereich, Szenario 3: Wegfall von zwei Arztsitzen in ländlichen Planungsbereichen) für das Prognosejahr 2035 exemplarisch berechnet.

Ergebnisse

Während sich in Szenario 1 die Versorgungssituation von 2014 auf 2035 in einigen Teilräumen sogar verbessern würde (n = 3 nicht mehr unterversorgt), zeigen die wahrscheinlicheren Szenarien 2 und 3 mit dem Wegfall einzelner Arztstandorte und dem altersselektiven Wanderungsverhalten, dass ganze Regionen in die Unterversorgung gelangen könnten.

Schlussfolgerungen

Es ist davon auszugehen, dass die räumliche Heterogenität der dermatologischen Versorgung unter Berücksichtigung des demographischen Wandels zunehmen wird. Weitere Anstrengungen in der Bedarfsplanung, aber auch hinsichtlich kreativer Versorgungsmodelle und interkommunaler Kooperation sind erforderlich, um die Versorgung dem demographischen Wandel sowie veränderten Lebensentwürfen junger Mediziner anzupassen.
Das Interesse an Solarien und Sonnenschutz im deutschsprachigen Raum
Authors: Kirchberger Michael C. , Kirchberger Laura F. , Eigentler Thomas K. , Reinhard Raphael , Berking Carola , Schuler Gerold , Heinzerling Lucie , Heppt Markus V.
Published: December 2017

Hintergrund

Die steigende Inzidenz nahezu aller Hautkrebsarten lässt sich durch eine zunehmende Exposition gegenüber natürlicher und künstlicher ultravioletter Strahlung (UV) erklären. Präventionsrelevante Statistiken über Risikoverhalten oder Sonnenschutz sind jedoch rar.

Methodik

Wir analysierten das Suchverhalten mit der Suchmaschine Google® nach Solarium und Sonnencreme bzw. Sonnenschutz in Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz im weltweiten Vergleich von 2004 bis 2016. Dabei werden „Normalized Search Volumes“ (NSV) für die Suchanfragen berechnet und die zugehörigen Polynomfunktionen untereinander und im zeitlichen Verlauf verglichen.

Ergebnisse

Global nehmen die Suchanfragen nach Solarium seit 2011 deutlich ab und nach Sonnencreme stetig zu. Im deutschsprachigen Raum hingegen können seit Jahren durchgehend mehr Suchanfragen zu Solarium als zu Sonnencreme verzeichnet werden. Hier ist innerhalb eines Jahres ist eine Periodizität der Suchanfragen zu beobachten mit höchsten NSV für Solarium zwischen März und Mai und für Sonnencreme in den Sommermonaten um Juni. Innerhalb Deutschlands zeigen vor allem die Stadtstaaten Hamburg und Berlin besonders hohe NSV für Solarium.

Schlussfolgerungen

In deutschsprachigen Ländern zeigt sich im weltweiten Vergleich ein auffallend ungünstiges Suchverhalten. Es besteht weiterhin ein hoher Aufklärungs‐ und Präventionsbedarf von Sonnenschutz und Karenz gegenüber künstlicher UV‐Exposition.
Role of the sodium‐hydrogen exchanger in mediating the renal effects of drugs commonly used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Packer Milton
Published: December 2017

Diabetes is characterized by increased activity of the sodium‐hydrogen exchanger (NHE) in the glomerulus and renal tubules, which contributes importantly to the development of nephropathy. Despite the established role played by the exchanger in experimental studies, it has not been specifically targeted by those seeking to develop novel pharmacological treatments for diabetes. This review demonstrates that many existing drugs that are commonly prescribed to patients with diabetes act on the NHE1 and NHE3 isoforms in the kidney. This action may explain their effects on sodium excretion, albuminuria and the progressive decline of glomerular function in clinical trials; these responses cannot be readily explained by the influence of these drugs on blood glucose. Agents that may affect the kidney in diabetes by virtue of an action on NHE include: (1) insulin and insulin sensitizers; (2) incretin‐based agents; (3) sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors; (4) antagonists of the renin‐angiotensin system (angiotensin converting‐enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers and angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitors); and (5) inhibitors of aldosterone action and cholesterol synthesis (spironolactone, amiloride and statins). The renal effects of each of these drug classes in patients with type 2 diabetes may be related to a single shared biological mechanism.
The impact of volume overload on right heart function in end‐stage renal disease patients on hemodialysis
Authors: Ünlü Serkan , Şahinarslan Asife , Gökalp Gökhan , Seçkin Özden , Arınsoy Selim Turgay , Boyacı Nuri Bülent , Çengel Atiye
Published: December 2017

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of volume overload on echocardiographic parameters used for the assessment of the right ventricle (RV) and right atrium (RA), to determine volume‐independent parameters and to noninvasively investigate the physio‐mechanics of RV and RA by examining end‐stage kidney patients before and after hemodialysis (HD).

Methods

The echocardiographic images were obtained from 67 patients (49.2 ± 17.3 years, 23 f) before and after HD. Changes in echocardiographic parameters with HD were examined. The average ultrafiltrated volume was 3088.1 ± 1103.7 mL.

Results

The size of RV and RA and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) decreased after HD, whereas myocardial performance index increased. RV fractional area change and iso‐volumetric contraction acceleration time remained unchanged. RV global longitudinal strain (GLS) and RV early diastolic strain rate (SR) decreased after HD. Systolic and late diastolic SR of the RV showed no statistically significant difference after HD. Longitudinal strain and SR of RA contraction were not significantly different after HD. The changes in RV GLS (r = .641, P = .027), RV free wall longitudinal strain (r = .643, P < .001), RA reservoir phase strain (r = .60, P = .008), and TAPSE (r = .642, P = .001) significantly correlated with ultrafiltrated volume.

Conclusion

Two‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography is an easy and noninvasive tool that could provide additional volume‐independent echocardiographic parameters and more information on RA physio‐mechanics. This might lead to a better evaluation of the cardiac pathophysiology and hemodynamics of patients. Moreover, providing novel volume‐independent parameters for the evaluation of right heart chambers would improve the clinical perspectives of patients.
Significance of thrombocytopenia in patients with primary and postessential thrombocythemia/polycythemia vera myelofibrosis
Authors: Masarova Lucia , Alhuraiji Ahmad , Bose Prithviraj , Daver Naval , Pemmaraju Naveen , Cortes Jorge , Pierce Sherry , Kantarjian Hagop , Verstovsek Srdan
Published: December 2017

Severe thrombocytopenia (platelets <50 × 109/L) is associated with very poor outcome of patients with myelofibrosis (MF). As patients with primary myelofibrosis (PMF) differ from patients with postessential thrombocythemia (PET‐MF) and postpolycythemia vera myelofibrosis (PPV‐MF), we aimed to evaluate the significance of low platelets among these patients. We present clinical characteristics and outcome of patients with either PMF, PPV‐MF, or PET‐MF, and thrombocytopenia who presented to our institution between 1984 and 2015. Of 1269 patients (877 PMF, 212 PPV‐MF, 180 PET‐MF), 11% and 14% had platelets either <50 × 109/L or between 50‐100 × 109/L, respectively. Patients with platelets <50 × 109/L were most anemic and transfusion dependent, had highest blast count and unfavorable karyotype. In general, their overall and leukemia‐free survival was the shortest with median time of 15 and 13 months, respectively; with incidence of acute leukemia almost twice as high as in the remaining patients (6.9 vs 3.6 cases per 100 person‐years). Nevertheless, this observation remains mostly significant for patients with PMF, as those with PEV/PVT‐MF have already significantly inferior prognosis with platelets <100 × 109/L.
Diel changes in habitat use by dragonflies: Nocturnal roosting site selection by the threatened dragonfly Sympetrum depressiusculum (Odonata: Libellulidae)
Authors: Hykel Michal , Harabiš Filip , Dolný Aleš
Published: December 2017

Although it is well recognized that insects' habitat use and requirements may change during the season, very little attention has been devoted to diel habitat changes in most insects. In this study, we compared habitat utilization patterns of Sympetrum depressiusculum (Selys, 1841) adult dragonflies between daytime activities and nocturnal roosting. During daytime, we captured and marked adult individuals with fluorescent paint in different habitats. At night, we searched, using UV light, for marked individuals that remained on the habitats. We found that habitat selection for daytime activities and that for nocturnal roosting differed significantly. Adults clearly avoided ponds and their immediate surroundings for nocturnal roosting, whereas this habitat type was frequently utilized for daytime activities. We suggest that nocturnal avoidance of the riparian area is associated with lower temperatures, which adversely affect thermoregulation, and that selection of specific habitats for nocturnal roosting is closely associated with vegetation structure providing stability during windy nights and serving as a suitable shelter. Such habitat properties are found especially on fallow land, a habitat type whose representation in agricultural areas has been gradually decreasing in recent decades.
Female response to predation risk alters conspecific male behaviour during pre‐copulatory mate guarding
Authors: Oku Keiko , Poelman Erik H. , de Jong Peter W. , Dicke Marcel
Published: December 2017

Mating behaviour often increases predation risk, but the vulnerability within mating pairs differs between the sexes. Such a sex difference is expected to lead to differences in responses to predation risk between the sexes. In the two‐spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae, males engage in pre‐copulatory mate guarding because only the first mating results in fertilisation. We investigated (i) whether pre‐copulatory pairs are more conspicuous to the predatory mite Phytoseiulus persimilis than solitary females, (ii) whether the vulnerability to the predator differs between sexes within the pre‐copulatory pair, (iii) whether each sex of T. urticae responds to predation risk during pre‐copulatory mate guarding and (iv) whether T. urticae's response to predation risk affects predator behaviour. Because T. urticae females are immobile during pre‐copulatory mate guarding, we observed male behaviour to evaluate effects of predation risk. We found that the predators detect more pre‐copulatory pairs than solitary females and that more females than males of the pre‐copulatory pairs are preyed upon by the predators. The preference of spider mite males for pre‐copulatory pairs versus solitary females was affected by whether or not the female had been exposed to predators during development. Male T. urticae exposed to predation risk did not alter their behaviour. These results suggest that only the most vulnerable sex, that is the female, responds to predation risk, which modifies male behaviour. Regardless of T. urticae females’ experience, however, P. persimilis detected more T. urticae pre‐copulatory pairs than solitary females, suggesting that pre‐copulatory mate guarding itself is dangerous for T. urticae females when these predators are present. We discuss our results in the context of sex‐dependent differences in predation risk.
Birth Family Contact Experiences Among Lesbian, Gay, and Heterosexual Adoptive Parents With School‐Age Children
Authors: Farr Rachel H. , Ravvina Yelena , Grotevant Harold D.
Published: December 2017

Objective

To examine how lesbian, gay, and heterosexual adoptive parents navigate openness dynamics with children's birth family across a 5‐year period, when children are preschool‐ to school‐age.

Background

Few studies regarding birth family contact have included longitudinal data as well as a sample of adoptive parents of varying sexual orientations. Thus, this study used a multiprong theoretical approach grounded in emotional distance regulation, families of choice, and gender theory.

Method

A mixed‐methods approach with longitudinal quantitative survey and qualitative interview data from 106 lesbian, gay, and heterosexual adoptive parent families was employed to examine the type of contact, its frequency, who was involved, perceptions of this contact, and the extent to which formal agreements exist between adoptive and birth families regarding contact.

Results

Findings revealed variations in the status and perceptions of contact across adoptive families. We also discovered that many lesbian and gay adoptive parents reported that birth parents had intentionally selected a same‐sex adoptive couple, and birth parents appeared to have distinct reasons for this choice.

Conclusion

Although some differences in birth family contact distinguished lesbian, gay, and heterosexual adoptive parent families, these families generally appeared more similar than different.

Implications

Implications—particularly a need for demonstrated competencies in adoption openness—are discussed for adoption professionals in policy, practice, and legal realms.
Family Resilience Amid Stigma and Discrimination: A Conceptual Model for Families Headed by Same‐Sex Parents
Authors: Prendergast Sarah , MacPhee David
Published: December 2017

Despite policy advancements ensuring equality for lesbians and gay men, families headed by LG individuals still experience stigmatization and discrimination, both of which are chronic forms of adversity that can compromise healthy family functioning. Yet research demonstrates that many families headed by same‐sex parents are functioning well. Research using deficit‐comparison approaches has not contributed to a deeper understanding of variations in child rearing and child outcomes that may contribute to, or impede, healthy family functioning among the population of LG families. We describe a model of family resilience, grounded in minority stress theory, that may help inform the research agenda on families headed by same‐sex parents. Our conceptual framework of family resilience can guide the next wave of research with LG families and may help programs to promote key family strengths.
Perceptions of oral health among older Cambodians and their caregivers: A qualitative study
Authors: Horn Rithvitou , Heng Chanlay , Chea Chamrouen , Sieng Chanthyda , Louv Chenlay , Turton Bathsheba , Durward Callum , Abu Kasim Noor Hayaty
Published: December 2017

Objective

Older adults (those above the age of 60) are an emerging demographic in Cambodia, and very little is understood about their oral health experiences, needs, perceptions and behaviours. The aim of this study was to explore the oral health experiences, practices and perceptions of a convenience sample of a small but diverse group of older adults in Cambodia.

Method

A cross‐sectional qualitative study in which focus group interviews were conducted by 5 trained senior Cambodian dental students. A convenience sample of 56 older adults and caregivers was recruited across urban, semi‐urban and rural locations. Focus group conversations were recorded, transcribed and analysed thematically.

Results

The themes that emerged were around low expectations for both general health and oral health. A communal responsibility for health was expressed, and both money and transport were identified as key barriers to accessing care. Participants recognised that they had oral health problems, and acknowledged the impact of poor oral function on health and nutrition.

Conclusion

This study is an important first step in better understanding the oral health experiences and perceptions of older people in Cambodia. Participants described the impacts of poor oral health as being important, even when compared with other general health conditions.
The effect of small dose of topiroxostat on serum uric acid in patients receiving hemodialysis
Authors: Nagaoka Yume , Tanaka Yoshiko , Yoshimoto Hiroshi , Suzuki Rie , Ryu Kakei , Ueda Mio , Akiyama Minako , Nagai Miho , Miyaoka Yoshitaka , Kanda Eiichiro , Iwai Shinnichi , Nagaoka Michio , Kanno Yoshihiko
Published: December 2017

Introduction: Topiroxostat, a recently developed xanthine oxidase inhibitor, is expected to have fewer adverse effects than allopurinol because it has different mechanism of action from alloprinol. However, its dosage, usage and safety have not been established in patients with impaired renal function or those undergoing dialysis at the development since no studies was conducted in these patients.

Methods: Cross over clinical trial using 3 months of allopurinol and topiroxostat on 27 maintain Japanese HD patients were carried out. The effects on oxidative stress status of both drugs were also evaluated by measuring oxidation reduction potential.

Findings: Twenty‐five of twenty‐seven patients completed study. The mean serum uric acid levels in the topiroxostat‐treated arm was significantly lower than it in the allopurinol‐treated arm time‐dependently (P < 0.0001). Corrected oxidative stress ratio defined as biological antioxidant potential/diacron reactive oxygen metabolites was significantly increased in topiroxostat‐arm (*P = 0.0035), but not in allopurinol‐arm (P = 0.1429). No significant difference was seen in diacron reactive oxygen metabolites, biological antioxidant potential, static oxidation‐reduction potential, and capacity oxidation‐reduction potential between pre and post treatment of both drugs.

Discussion: It is suggested that a low dose of topiroxostat decreased serum uric acid sufficiently to maintain it below 7.0 mg/dL in patients receiving hemodialysis.
New diagnosis of bullous pemphigoid after withdrawal of immunosuppressive therapy in a failed renal transplant recipient on hemodialysis
Authors: Abdul Salim Sohail , Thomas Litty , Quorles Amanda , Hamrahian Seyed Mehrdad , Fülöp Tibor
Published: December 2017

The occurrence of the autoimmune blistering disease, bullous pemphigoid (BP), in patients with failed renal allograft is rare and the few reported cases suggest various provocative factors without reaching a consensus. Here we report the case of a patient presenting with bullous lesions soon after the complete discontinuation of immunosuppressant therapy following renal allograft failure. Skin biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of BP. Administration of systemic corticosteroid controlled the occurrence of BP lesions in our patient. Increased clinical suspicion is warranted in cases of patients with renal transplant failure, since withdrawal of the immunosuppressant therapy could lead to unmasking the underlying autoimmune skin disease.
Glucose homeostasis in two degrees of sepsis lethality induced by caecum ligation and puncture in mice
Authors: Ferreira Francielle B. D. , dos Santos Cristiane , Bruxel Maciel A. , Nunes Everson A. , Spiller Fernando , Rafacho Alex
Published: December 2017

Sepsis is associated with high mortality. Both critically ill humans and animal models of sepsis exhibit changes in their glucose homeostasis, that is, hypoglycaemia, with the progression of infection. However, the relationship between basal glycaemia, glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity is not well understood. Thus, we aimed to evaluate this glucose homeostasis triad at the late stage of sepsis (24 h after surgery) in male Swiss mice subjected to lethal and sublethal sepsis by the caecal ligation and puncture (CLP) model. The percentage of survival 24 h after CLP procedure in the Lethal and Sublethal groups was around 66% and 100% respectively. Both Lethal and Sublethal groups became hypoglycaemic in fasting and fed states 24 h after surgery. The pronounced fed hypoglycaemia in the Lethal group was not due to worsening anorexic behaviour or hepatic inability to deliver glucose in relation to the Sublethal group. Reduction in insulin sensitivity in CLP mice occurred in a lethality‐dependent manner and was not associated with glucose intolerance. Analysis of oral and intraperitoneal glucose tolerance tests, as well as the gastrointestinal motility data, indicated that CLP mice had reduced intestinal glucose absorption. Altogether, we suggest cessation of appetite and intestinal glucose malabsorption are key contributors to the hypoglycaemic state observed during experimental severe sepsis.
Discrimination of FCGR2B polymorphism without coamplification of FCGR2A and FCGR2C genes
Authors: Bonatti F. , Adorni A. , Percesepe A. , Martorana D.
Published: December 2017

The FCGR locus is characterized by high polymorphism and sequence homology. In particular, the Ile232Thr polymorphism in the FCGR2B gene results in inaccurate genotyping in most published papers. The purpose of the study was to develop an accurate genotyping assay able to discriminate this polymorphism.
Limited utility of routine chest X‐ray in initial evaluation of neutropenic fever in patients with haematological diseases undergoing chemotherapy
Authors: Estacio Ortis , Loh Zoe , Baker Amy , Chong Geoff , Grigg Andrew , Churilov Leonid , Hawkes Eliza A.
Published: December 2017

Background

Routine chest X‐ray (CXR) is recommended for neutropenic fever (NF) management however its role is relatively understudied in haematology patients.

Aim

To investigate the utility of CXR in the diagnosis and management of patients with haematological conditions complicated by NF.

Methods

Retrospective, single‐centre analysis of haematology patients admitted with NF between January 2011 and December 2015. Baseline demographics, treatment details and outcomes were collected from electronic patient records. CXR underwent independent radiology review. Primary endpoints were a proportion of NF episodes in which CXR detected a probable chest infection in the absence of respiratory symptoms/signs and/or resulted in a change in antibiotic management.

Results

Four hundred and thirty‐five episodes were identified; CXR was performed in 75% of patients (65% within 2 days of NF). In 4 of 164 (2.4%) asymptomatic patients, CXR was consistent with infection, in contrast to 19 of 119 (16%) patients with clinical signs of respiratory infection. Only 3 of 283 (1.1%) CXR resulted in a change to antibiotics. CXR consistent with infection was not associated with increased mortality or increased admission length, although there was an association with intensive care unit admission (odds ratios: 7.61, 95% confidence interval: 2.04–28.31).

Conclusion

In haematology patients with NF, CXR rarely detected chest infection or changed management in patients with no respiratory symptoms or signs. CXR in our institution is no longer part of routine assessment of NF in the absence of these features.
Sprague's pipit breeding biology and reproductive success in planted and native grasslands
Authors: Davis Stephen K.
Published: December 2017

Much of the native grasslands in agricultural regions have been converted to cropland or tilled and seeded with non‐native grasses for livestock production. Several grassland songbird species occupy planted grasslands, but occupancy or density may not be a reliable indicator of habitat quality. I studied the breeding biology of Sprague's pipit Anthus spragueii from 2004 to 2008 in Saskatchewan, Canada. My objective was to determine the extent to which the breeding biology, density and reproductive success of pipits varied in planted and native grasslands. Peak clutch initiation occurred in mid‐ to late‐May in planted and native grassland. Peak pipit density also occurred in May, but density drastically declined over the breeding season in planted grassland. Clutch size varied among years and declined over the breeding season, but was similar in planted (4.7  0.1 SE) and native grasslands (4.5  0.1 SE). Daily nest survival rates varied with age of the nest and date, but the relationships differed in the two habitats and was likely a result of lower nestling survival in planted grassland compared to native grassland. The number of young fledged per nest increased as the season progressed and tended to be greater in native (1.2  0.1 SE) than planted (0.9  0.2 SE) grasslands. Seasonal productivity was much greater in native grassland. Only three nests were initiated after May in planted grassland and all were unsuccessful, whereas pipit young fledged at higher rates from nests initiated in native grassland in June and July than planted grassland nests initiated in May. The number of fledged young from successful nests did not vary strongly with habitat, date or year. This research indicates that planted grasslands attract pipits at the beginning of the breeding season, but habitat suitability and reproductive success substantially declines as the breeding season progresses compared to that found in native grassland.
Definition of aggressive periodontitis in periodontal research. A systematic review
Authors: Ramírez Valeria , Hach Maria , López Rodrigo
Published: December 2017

Since its introduction in 1999, the term aggressive periodontitis (AgP) has been the topic of many investigations. Articles supporting the International Workshop for a Classification of Periodontal Diseases list several disease features, but do not offer operational criteria for identifying cases. Consequently, considerable variation in the understanding of AgP can be anticipated.

Aim

To systematically assess the definitions of AgP reported in original periodontal research.

Methods

A systematic review of original research on AgP published in English.

Results

The electronic search yielded 833 abstracts. Of these, 472 publications fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were appraised. In 26.5% of the publications, no information on AgP operationalization is presented, but reference is made to another article. In 12.7% of the publications, no information is provided as to how the cases were defined. Many combinations of criteria for case definition were found.

Conclusions

This study revealed significant heterogeneity in the understanding and use of the term AgP in original research and poor documentation of the identification of cases. The direction and magnitude of the influence of misclassification and selection bias are unknown, but ought to be considered by the critical reader, professionals and patients using this term.
Internal adaptation of resin composite restorations with different thicknesses of glass ionomer cement lining
Authors: Chailert Ornjira , Banomyong Danuchit , Vongphan Nataya , Ekworapoj Piyanart , Burrow Michael F.
Published: December 2017

Aim

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of the thin or thick placement of resin‐modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) lining on the adaptation of resin composite restorations bonded with two types of adhesive.

Methods

Sixty deep occlusal cavities were prepared and divided into two groups: etch‐and‐rinse adhesive (Single Bond 2) or self‐etching adhesive (Clearfil SE Bond). Specimens were further divided into three subgroups: no lining (control), lined with 0.5 mm‐thin RMGIC, or lined with 1 mm‐thick RMGIC (Vitrebond). Each cavity was bonded, restored with resin composite, and sectioned to obtain two specimens. One specimen was stained with 2% methylene blue, and dye staining at the pulpal floor and cavity walls was calculated. Other specimens were investigated for micro‐gap formation using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Results

For Single Bond 2, dye staining was not significantly different among the three groups. For Clearfil SE Bond, lining absence showed the lowest dye staining at the pulpal floor. Dye staining of 0.5 mm‐thin RMGIC significantly increased, but 1 mm‐thick RMGIC tended to reduce dye staining. Comparing the two adhesives, there was no significant difference in dye staining. From the SEM images, micro‐gaps were more frequently observed in the 0.5 mm‐thin lining groups.

Conclusions

RMGIC should be placed as a thick lining, if indicated.
Multigene editing via CRISPR/Cas9 guided by a single‐sgRNA seed in Arabidopsis
Authors: Yu Zhiming , Chen Qiyuan , Chen Weiwei , Zhang Xian , Mei Fengling , Zhang Pengcheng , Zhao Mei , Wang Xiaohong , Shi Nongnong , Jackson Stephen , Hong Yiguo
Published: December 2017

We report that a solo single‐guide RNA (sgRNA) seed is capable of guiding Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR −associated 9 (CRISRP/Cas9) to simultaneously edit multiple genes AtRPL10A, AtRPL10B and AtRPL10C in Arabidopsis. Our results also demonstrate that it is possible to use CRISPR/Cas9 technology to create AtRPL10 triple mutants which otherwise cannot be generated by conventional genetic crossing. Compared to other conventional multiplex CRISPR/Cas systems, a single sgRNA seed has the advantage of reducing off‐target gene‐editing. Such a gene editing system might be also applicable to modify other homologous genes, or even less‐homologous sequences for multiple gene‐editing in plants and other organisms.
Microneedling combined with platelet‐rich plasma or trichloroacetic acid peeling for management of acne scarring: A split‐face clinical and histologic comparison
Authors: El‐Domyati Moetaz , Abdel‐Wahab Hossam , Hossam Aliaa
Published: December 2017

Background

Minimally invasive procedures provide effective, safe, relatively long‐lasting, and natural results without large damage to the skin. A combination treatment is considered an approach that includes at least 2 different and unrelated modalities.

Objectives

This study aims to evaluate the use and effectiveness of some combined minimally invasive procedures for management of acne scarring.

Patients/methods

Twenty‐four volunteers with postacne atrophic scars were randomly divided into 3 equal groups according to performed procedure on each side of the face (microneedling by dermaroller alone or combined with platelet‐rich plasma [PRP] or trichloroacetic acid [TCA] 15% peeling) and received 6 bi‐weekly sessions of treatment. Photography and punch biopsies were taken before and after 3 months of treatment for clinical, histological, and histometrical evaluation.

Results

Combined treatment of dermaroller and PRP or dermaroller and TCA 15% showed significant improvement when compared with dermaroller alone (P = .015 and .011 respectively). Epidermal thickness showed statistically significant increase in studied groups, mainly after dermaroller and TCA 15%. Moreover, the 3 studied groups showed more organized collagen bundles and newly formed collagen formation and markedly decreased abnormal elastic fibers.

Conclusions

Based on the clinical, histometrical, and histochemical assessment, inspite that most volunteers showed significant improvement after treatment, however, the combined use of dermaroller and TCA 15% was more effective in postacne atrophic scars than the use of dermaroller and PRP or dermaroller only.
Antiviral therapy for hepatitis B virus during second pregnancies
Authors: Wakano Yasuhiro , Sugiura Tokio , Endo Takeshi , Ito Koichi , Suzuki Mitsuyoshi , Tajiri Hitoshi , Tanaka Yasuhito , Saitoh Shinji
Published: December 2017

Mother‐to‐child transmission of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major concern for infected mothers, especially after their first child has become an HBV carrier despite immunoprophylaxis. Eight mothers whose first child had become an HBV carrier despite immunoprophylaxis were referred for antiviral therapy during the subsequent pregnancy. All pregnant women were seropositive for both the hepatitis B surface antigen and hepatitis B e antigen. In the treatment group (three receiving lamivudine and two receiving tenofovir), mother‐to‐child transmission of the HBV was successfully prevented in all infants (5/5). On the other hand, two of three infants became HBV carriers in the untreated group. There were no significant adverse effects in either mothers or infants. Antiviral therapy using lamivudine and tenofovir during the second pregnancy successfully prevented mother‐to‐child transmission of the HBV for high‐risk mothers.
Intraventricular melanocytoma diagnosis confirmed by gene mutation profile
Authors: Knappe Ulrich J. , Tischoff Iris , Tannapfel Andrea , Reinbold Wolf‐Dieter , Möller Inga , Sucker Antje , Schadendorf Dirk , Griewank Klaus G. , van de Nes Johannes A.P.
Published: December 2017

Primary leptomeningeal melanocytic tumors (PLMTs) are rare. They usually arise along the spinal cord and at the skull base. Here we report on a patient with a very rare intraventricular melanocytoma. Histologically, a melanocytic tumor was clearly diagnosed. However, to make the uncommon diagnosis of an intraventricular melanocytoma, metastatic melanoma needed to be excluded. Next generation sequencing covering gene mutations that may occur in PLMTs and cutaneous melanoma was performed. The unique gene mutation profile detected, consisting of an activating CYSLTR2 L129Q mutation and EIF1AX G9R mutation and a lack of mutations in genes known to occur in metastatic melanoma (i.e. BRAF or NRAS) confirmed the diagnosis of an intraventricular melanocytoma. This case report is the second intraventricular melanocytoma published to date and demonstrates the value of applying novel genetic assays to make this diagnosis.
A prospective study comparing perioperative anxiety and posthospital behavior in children with autism spectrum disorder vs typically developing children undergoing outpatient surgery
Authors: Elliott Anila B. , Holley Amy Lewandowski , Ross Alexandra C. , Soleta Amy O. , Koh Jeffrey L.
Published: December 2017

Background

Research describing the experience of youth with autism spectrum disorders in the perioperative setting is limited. This study compared youth with autism spectrum disorder to typically developing children in the perioperative setting and examined group differences in: child anxiety, parent anxiety, premedication patterns, induction compliance, and changes in behavior postprocedure.

Methods

Participants were 60 youth (32 with autism spectrum disorder, 28 typically developing) of ages 2‐19 years undergoing outpatient surgery and their parents. Parents and research assistants rated children's anxiety at 3 time points (waiting room, preoperative holding, separation), and parents rated their own anxiety in the waiting room and at separation. The anesthesiologist rated induction compliance. Postprocedure behavior change was assessed via phone survey 1 and 7 days postprocedure. Analyses examined group differences in anxiety, medication patterns, and behavior.

Results

Children with autism spectrum disorder had higher research assistant reported anxiety than typically developing youth in the holding room only. There were no group differences in parent report of their own anxiety or their child's anxiety across time points. Compared to typically developing youth, children with autism spectrum disorder were more likely to receive a premedication (including nonstandard premedication), and had poorer induction compliance. Groups did not differ on posthospital behavior change 1 or 7 days postsurgery.

Conclusion

Findings revealed ratings of anxiety in youth with and without autism spectrum disorder facing surgery varied by reporter and setting, highlighting the importance of using multiple reporters in research of youth with autism spectrum disorder in the perioperative period. Furthermore, while results showed group differences in premedication patterns and induction compliance, groups did not differ in level of negative behavior change after surgery. Future research can examine how individual differences in youth with autism impact anxiety in the perioperative setting and degree of behavior change postprocedure.
EEG frequency PCA in EEG‐ERP dynamics
Authors: Barry Robert J. , De Blasio Frances M.
Published: December 2017

Principal components analysis (PCA) has long been used to decompose the ERP into components, and these mathematical entities are increasingly accepted as meaningful and useful representatives of the electrophysiological components constituting the ERP. A similar expansion appears to be beginning in regard to decomposition of the EEG amplitude spectrum into frequency components via frequency PCA. However, to date, there has been no exploration of the brain's dynamic EEG‐ERP linkages using PCA decomposition to assess components in each measure. Here, we recorded intrinsic EEG in both eyes‐closed and eyes‐open resting conditions, followed by an equiprobable go/no‐go task. Frequency PCA of the EEG, including the nontask resting and within‐task prestimulus periods, found seven frequency components within the delta to beta range. These differentially predicted PCA‐derived go and no‐go N1 and P3 ERP components. This demonstration suggests that it may be beneficial in future brain dynamics studies to implement PCA for the derivation of data‐driven components from both the ERP and EEG.
Who Engages in the Coproduction of Local Public Services and Why? The Case of Atlanta, Georgia
Authors: Uzochukwu Kelechi , Thomas John Clayton
Published: December 2017

With the resurgent interest in coproduction, questions arise around who joins with government in coproducing services and why. This article reports an exploratory study of these questions using data from Atlanta, Georgia. To guide the research, the article first proposes a set of hypotheses on involvement in coproduction based on theories of political participation, where psychological motivations and social factors dominate, and citizen‐initiated contacting, where perceived needs for public services are usually primary. The hypotheses are tested using survey data on the engagement of 797 neighborhood organization participants in various forms of local coproduction in Atlanta. The findings provide some support for both theories along with evidence for significant idiosyncratic variations suggested by neither theory. A concluding section considers implications of the findings for future research and for public management.
Some generating functions involving certain polynomials of two variables
Authors: Al-Gonah Ahmed Ali
Published: December 2017

In the present paper, we derive families of bilateral and mixed multilateral generating relations involving 2-variable Hermite and 2-variable extended Srivastava polynomials. Further, as applications of the main results, several bilateral and trilateral generating functions involving certain polynomials of two variables are obtained by using some recent known generating functions.
Characterization of a hyperperfect group
Authors: Purkayastha Saugata , Goswami Dr. Jituparna , Debnath Bhargab
Published: December 2017

In this work, we have introduced the notion of hyperperfect group. A group of order n is said to be hyperperfect if there exists a natural number k such that n-1 = k[σ(n)-n-1] where σ(n) denotes the sum of positive divisors of n. We have also established a condition under which a cyclic group is hyperperfect. We have established that no group of prime order is hyperperfect and investigated the same for groups of various non-prime order. We have also determined an upper bound of the order of a hyperperfect group.