bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Milk allergy is a minor cause of milk avoidance due to perceived hypersensitivity among schoolchildren in Northern Sweden
Authors: Winberg Anna , West Christina E. , Strinnholm Åsa , Nordström Lisbeth , Hedman Linnea , Rönmark Eva
Published: October 2015

Aim

We investigated phenotypes of milk hypersensitivity among schoolchildren aged 11–12 in Northern Sweden.

Methods

In a population‐based cohort, 1824 (98%) children aged 11–12 participated in a questionnaire survey, skin prick testing, interviews on food hypersensitivity and assessment of body mass index (BMI). Of the 265 children reporting milk hypersensitivity, milk avoidance and no coeliac disease, 236 (89%) participated in a structured interview and blood samples for analyses of milk‐specific Immunoglobulin E. The children were then categorised into milk hypersensitivity phenotypes according to preset criteria.

Results

In all, 14.5% reported milk hypersensitivity. Of these, 3% were categorised as current milk allergy, 23% as outgrown milk allergy, 40% as probable lactose intolerance and 11% as nondefinable. Furthermore, 23% had discontinued their elimination diet. Milk allergy was associated with other atopic disorders and lower BMI, with an odds ratio of 0.82 and 95% confidence interval of 0.80–0.98. Only 2% had previously undergone an oral challenge.

Conclusion

The most common symptom phenotypes among Swedish children aged 11–12 with self‐reported milk hypersensitivity and milk avoidance were probable intolerance and outgrown milk allergy, while current milk allergy was uncommon. Children with milk allergy had a lower BMI and most lacked a challenge‐proven diagnosis.
Myeloma impairs mature osteoblast function but causes early expansion of osteo‐progenitors: temporal changes in bone physiology and gene expression in the KMS12BM model
Authors: Kassen Deepika , Lath Darren , Lach Anna , Evans Holly , Chantry Andy , Rabin Neil , Croucher Peter , Yong Kwee L.
Published: November 2015

Myeloma bone disease results from an uncoupling of osteoclastic resorption and osteoblastic bone formation, but early changes in osteogenic function remain poorly defined. We used the KMS12BM xenograft model to investigate cellular and molecular events at early and late stages of disease. Lytic lesions and changes in osteoblast and osteoclast numbers occur late (8 weeks), however, micro‐computed tomography of femora revealed significant reduction in bone volume at earlier disease stages (3 weeks) when tumour burden is low. Calcein labelling demonstrated reduced mineralization and bone formation at 3 weeks, suggesting functional impairment despite preserved osteoblast numbers. Osteo‐progenitors from compact bone increased early (1 week), but fell at 3 weeks and were profoundly suppressed by 8 weeks. Exposure of osteoblast progenitors to multiple myeloma (MM) cells in vitro induced cell cycling, suggesting a mechanistic basis for early expansion of osteo‐progenitors. We observed temporal changes in chemokine, osteogenic and osteoclastogenic genes in the stromal compartment. Notably, an early rise in CCL3 may underlie functional changes in mature osteoblasts at 3 weeks. Our data indicate that MM has distinct effects on mature osteoblasts and immature osteo‐progenitors. Our findings argue for early clinical intervention to prevent bone changes that ultimately lead to the development of osteolytic disease.
Organ iron accumulation in chronically transfused children with sickle cell anaemia: baseline results from the TWiTCH trial
Authors: Wood John C. , Cohen Alan R. , Pressel Sara L. , Aygun Banu , Imran Hamayun , Luchtman‐Jones Lori , Thompson Alexis A. , Fuh Beng , Schultz William H. , Davis Barry R. , Ware Russell E. ,   the TWiTCH Investigators
Published: November 2015

Transcranial Doppler (TCD) With Transfusions Changing to Hydroxyurea (TWiTCH) trial is a randomized, open‐label comparison of hydroxycarbamide (also termed hydroxyurea) versus continued chronic transfusion therapy for primary stroke prevention in patients with sickle cell anaemia (SCA) and abnormal TCD. Severity and location of iron overload is an important secondary outcome measure. We report the baseline findings of abdominal organ iron burden in 121 participants. At enrollment, patients were young (9·8 ± 2·9 years), predominantly female (60:40), and previously treated with transfusions (4·1 ± 2·4 years) and iron chelation (3·1 ± 2·1 years). Liver iron concentration (LIC; 9·0 ± 6·6 mg/g dry weight) and serum ferritin were moderately elevated (2696 ± 1678 μg/l), but transferrin was incompletely saturated (47·2 ± 23·6%). Spleen R2* was 509 ± 399 Hz (splenic iron ~13·9 mg/g) and correlated with LIC (r2 = 0·14, P = 0·0008). Pancreas R2* was increased in 38·3% of patients but not to levels associated with endocrine toxicity. Kidney R2* was increased in 80·7% of patients; renal iron correlated with markers of intravascular haemolysis and was elevated in patients with increased urine albumin‐creatinine ratios. Extra‐hepatic iron deposition is common among children with SCA who receive chronic transfusions, and could potentiate oxidative stress caused by reperfusion injury and decellularized haemoglobin.
The Benefits and Costs of Zero Tillage RD&E on the Canadian Prairies
Authors: Awada Lana , Gray Richard S. , Nagy Cecil
Published: November 2015

The development and adoption of zero tillage has profoundly transformed cropping systems in Western Canada. In this paper, we describe key drivers and aspects of this innovation process and quantify the overall economic impacts of adoption and the benefit cost of research development and extension, which accelerated the adoption. Estimating on‐site and off‐site benefits we find very high benefit–cost ratios, suggesting a need to maintain institutions that can foster the development of similar innovations.

Le développement et l'adoption des techniques sans labour (TSL) ont profondément transformé les systèmes de culture dans l’Ouest Canadien. Dans cet article, nous décrivons les principales causes et les aspects de ce processus d'innovation et quantifions les conséquences économiques de l'adoption et le avantage‐coût de recherche‐développement et vulgarisation, ce qui ont accéléré l'adoption. Estimer les bénéficies sur site et hors site nous avons trouvé que les ratios avantage‐coût est très élevé, ce qui suggère la nécessité de maintenir les institutions qui favorisent le développement d'innovations similaires.
An open randomized controlled clinical trial to evaluate ridge preservation and repair using SocketKAP™and SocketKAGE™: part 1‐three‐dimensional volumetric soft tissue analysis of study casts
Authors: Zadeh Homayoun H. , Abdelhamid Alaa , Omran Mostafa , Bakhshalian Neema , Tarnow Dennis
Published: November 2015

Objectives

The aims of this study were to evaluate (i) the efficacy of ridge preservation and repair involving SocketKAP™and SocketKAGE™devices following tooth removal; and (ii) ridge contour changes at 6 months post‐extraction in intact sockets and sockets with dehiscence defects.

Material and methods

Thirty‐six patients required a total of 61 teeth to be extracted. Five cohorts were established with groups A–C involving intact sockets and groups D and E involving facial dehiscence: (A) Negative Control; (B) SocketKAP™alone; (C) Anorganic Bovine Bone Mineral (ABBM) + SocketKAP™; (D) Negative Control; and (E)ABBM + SocketKAP™ + SocketKAGE™. PreoperativeCBCTand laser‐scanned casts were obtained. Teeth segmented from preoperativeCBCTwere merged with study cast images to allow for digital removal of teeth from the casts. Volumetric measurements of ridge contour were performed. Images of preoperative and 6 months post‐operative casts were superimposed to measure ridge contour changes.

Results

Post‐extraction contour loss occurred in all sockets primarily in the crestal 3 mm but was also detected up to 6 mm from alveolar crest. For intact sockets, SocketKAP™or SocketKAP™ + ABBMinterventions led to greater percentages of remaining ridge contour when compared to controls. A significant difference favoring SocketKAP™ + SocketKAGE™ + ABBMtreatment was observed for sockets with facial dehiscence when compared to controls.

Conclusion

SocketKAP™, with or withoutABBM, significantly limited post‐extraction ridge contour loss in intact sockets. In the absence of a group treated with only the SocketKAGE™, it is not possible to determine its efficacy, although the combination of SocketKAGE™ + SocketKAP™ + ABBMwas effective in limiting post‐extraction ridge contour loss in sockets with dehiscence defects.
Incremental Bayesian Category Learning From Natural Language
Authors: Frermann Lea , Lapata Mirella
Published: November 2015

Models of category learning have been extensively studied in cognitive science and primarily tested on perceptual abstractions or artificial stimuli. In this paper, we focus on categories acquired from natural language stimuli, that is, words (e.g.,chairis a member of the furniture category). We present a Bayesian model that, unlike previous work, learns both categories and their features in a single process. We model category induction as two interrelated subproblems: (a) the acquisition of features that discriminate among categories, and (b) the grouping of concepts into categories based on those features. Our model learns categoriesincrementallyusing particle filters, a sequential Monte Carlo method commonly used for approximate probabilistic inference that sequentially integrates newly observed data and can be viewed as a plausible mechanism for human learning. Experimental results show that our incremental learner obtains meaningful categories which yield a closer fit to behavioral data compared to related models while at the same time acquiring features which characterize the learned categories. (An earlier version of this work was published in Frermann and Lapata.)
Is It a Name or a Fact? Disambiguation of Reference Via Exclusivity and Pragmatic Reasoning
Authors: Malone Stephanie A. , Kalashnikova Marina , Davis Erin M.
Published: November 2015

Adults reason by exclusivity to identify the meanings of novel words. However, it is debated whether, like children, they extend this strategy to disambiguate other referential expressions (e.g., facts about objects). To further inform this debate, this study tested 41 adults on four conditions of a disambiguation task: label/label, fact/fact, label/fact, and fact/label (Scofield & Behrend, ). Participants also provided a verbal explanation for their referent selections to tease apart the underlying processes. Results indicated that adults successfully discerned the target object in the label/label and label/fact condition, yet not the remaining two conditions. Verbal reports indicated that the strategy utilized to disambiguate differed depending upon communicative context. These findings confirm that the tendency to reason by exclusivity becomes restricted to word‐learning situations with growing linguistic and communicative experience.
Reliability of muscle strength measures obtained with a hand‐held dynamometer in an elderly population
Authors: Buckinx Fanny , Croisier Jean‐Louis , Reginster Jean‐Yves , Dardenne Nadia , Beaudart Charlotte , Slomian Justine , Leonard Sylvain , Bruyère Olivier
Published: October 2015

Background

The objective of this study was to assess the reliability of a hand‐held dynamometer for isometric strength measurements among nursing home residents.

Methods

The isometric muscle strength of nursing home residents was assessed for eight different muscle groups, using a hand‐held dynamometer, the MicroFET2 device. Strength measurements were performed at baseline and after 4 days by the same operator and after 8 days by a second operator. Intraclass coefficients (ICC) were computed to assess the relative reliability, whereas the minimal detectable change (MDC%) was calculated to assess the absolute reliability of the test–retest of the MicroFET2 used by one single operator or by two different ones.

Results

Thirty nursing home residents (75·0 ± 11·2 years, 50% of women) were enrolled in this study. ICC of the test–retest with one single operator ranged from 0·60 (0·37–0·83) for the ankle extensors to 0·85 (0·74–0·95) for the elbow flexors. When considering the test–retest with two different operators, the ICC values ranged from 0·62 (0·41–0·84) for the ankle extensors to 0·87 (0·79–0·96) for the elbow extensors. For the absolute reliability, MDC% varies from 27·64 (elbow flexors) to 81·97 (ankle extensors) when performed in intra‐observer. In interobserver condition, MDC%, respectively, varies from 24·38 (elbow extensors) 67·59 (ankle extensors).

Conclusion

Using standardized protocol and standardized instructions to patients, a high relative and moderate absolute reliability was observed for all but ankle muscle groups, making this hand‐held dynamometer a potential tool for research in the elderly population.
Relation between exercise central haemodynamic response and resting cardiac structure and function in young healthy men
Authors: Babcock Matthew C. , Lefferts Wesley K. , Heffernan Kevin S.
Published: October 2015

Background

Left ventricular (LV) structure and function are predictors of cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality and are related to resting peripheral haemodynamic load in older adults. The central haemodynamic response to exercise may reveal associations with LV structure and function not detected by traditional peripheral (brachial) measures in a younger population.

Purpose

To examine correlations between acute exercise‐induced changes in central artery stiffness and wave reflections and measures of resting LV structure and function.

Methods

Sixteen healthy men (age 26 ± 6 year; BMI 25·3 ± 2·7 kg m−2) had measures of central haemodynamic load measured before/after a 30‐s Wingate anaerobic test (WAT). Common carotid artery stiffness and reflected wave intensity were assessed via wave intensity analysis as a regional pulse wave velocity (PWV) and negative area (NA), respectively. Resting LV structure (LV mass) and function [midwall fractional shortening (mFS)] were assessed using M‐mode echocardiography in the parasternal short‐axis view.

Results

There was a significant association between mFS and WAT‐mediated change in carotid systolic BP (r = −0·57, P = 0·011), logNA (r = −0·58, P = 0·009) and PWV (r = −0·44, P = 0·045). There were no significant associations between resting mFS and changes in brachial systolic BP (r = −0·26, P>0·05). There were no associations between resting LV mass and changes in any haemodynamic variable (P>0·05).

Conclusion

Exercise‐induced increases in central haemodynamic load reveal associations with lower resting LV function in young healthy men undetected by traditional peripheral haemodynamics.
Efficacy and Safety of Transthoracic Echocardiography Alone in Transcatheter Closure of Secundum‐Type Atrial Septal Defects in Adults
Authors: Ding Cheng , Chang Jia‐Kan , Lin Chang‐Chyi , Wu Yong‐Jian , Hsieh Kai‐Sheng
Published: November 2015

Background

On‐site transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) to guide the transcutaneous closure of secundum‐type atrial septal defects (ASDs) in the catheterization laboratory remains unclear, especially in adults.

Methods

Between 2005 and 2012, a total of 82 adults underwent transcutaneous closure of ASDs. The initial 15 cases underwent the procedure with both on‐site transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and TTE monitoring. Since January 2008, a total of 67 patients underwent on‐site TTE alone to guide the procedure.

Results

Among the 82 adult patients who underwent a transcutaneous closure of the secundum‐type ASD procedure, all had successful closure of the defects, and no periprocedural adverse complications occurred. No statistical significance was observed in the successful complete shunt closure rate between the TEE plus TTE and TTE groups during sequential follow‐up (postprocedure 24 hour [87% vs. 92%],1 month [93% vs. 95%], 3 month [93% vs. 97%], and 12 month [93% vs. 97%], P > 0.05, respectively) nor was a significant difference observed between the two groups, including decreased right ventricular dimension (29.5 ± 3.3 vs. 32.0 ± 4.9 mm, 26.5 ± 3.0 vs. 28.7 ± 4.6 mm, 26.2 ± 3.1 vs. 28.2 ± 4.8 mm, and 25.6 ± 2.8 vs. 27.7 ± 4.7 mm, P > 0.05, respectively) or increased left ventricular end‐diastolic dimension (41.1 ± 2.0 vs. 42.6 ± 3.0 mm, 44.3 ± 2.7 vs. 45.5 ± 3.1 mm, 44.2 ± 2.8 vs. 45.4 ± 3.1 mm, 44.9 ± 2.7 vs. 45.8 ± 2.6 mm, P > 0.05, respectively) before the procedure, and at the 3‐, 6‐, and 12‐month follow‐up evaluations.

Conclusion

This study showed that TTE guidance alone may be considered efficacious and safe as TEE during a transcutaneous ASD occlusion procedure in select adults.
THE POLITICAL ECONOMY OF BITCOIN
Authors: Hendrickson Joshua R. , Hogan Thomas L. , Luther William J.
Published: November 2015

The recent proliferation of bitcoin has been a boon for users but might pose problems for governments. Indeed, some governments have already taken steps to ban or discourage the use of bitcoin. In a model with endogenous matching and random consumption preferences, we find multiple monetary equilibria including one in which bitcoin coexists with official currency. We then identify the conditions under which government transactions policy might deter the use of bitcoin. We show that such a policy becomes more difficult if some users strictly prefer bitcoin because they can avoid other users holding the official currency in the matching process. (JEL C78, E41, E42, E50)
Effects of intra‐ and interspecific competition and hydropeaking on growth of juvenile Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)
Authors: Puffer Michael , Berg Ole K. , Huusko Ari , Vehanen Teppo , Einum Sigurd
Published: November 2015

The effects of hydropeaking and intra‐ and interspecific competition on the growth performance (growth in length, mass and lipid content) of juvenile Atlantic salmon Salmo salar and brown trout Salmo trutta were studied in six experimental channels (three experiencing hydropeaking and three controls with a stable discharge of water). Changes in the water‐covered area in the hydropeaking channels were small to avoid fish stranding. Each channel was divided into three similar‐sized sections and stocked with either low or high density of Atlantic salmon, or a mix of Atlantic salmon and brown trout, with the density of the latter equalling the high‐density treatment of Atlantic salmon. A marked effect of competition was visible as salmon in the low‐density treatment were significantly larger (27–33%) and had a higher mass (30–38%) than salmon in both the high‐density salmon treatment and the high‐density salmon and trout treatment. Hydropeaking had only minor and insignificant effects on the growth performance: overall final length, mass and body lipid content in the salmon experiencing hydropeaking differed by −9%, −7% and +2% compared with controls. Furthermore, there was no indication that the competitive regime influenced hydropeaking effects. The increase in both intra‐ and interspecific competition among the juvenile salmon had a pronounced and significant effect on growth. Our study adds to the growing evidence that energetic consequences of hydropeaking are likely to be small for Atlantic salmon and that stress and mortality associated with stranding represent the main source of population impact.
Hb TAYBE: clinical and morphological findings IN 43 patients
Authors: Koren Ariel , Levin Carina , Zalman Luci , Palmor Haya , Filon Dvora , Chubar Evgeny , Resnitzky Peretz , Bennett Michael
Published: October 2015

Hereditary sequence variants in globin genes are usually silent and are rarer in α‐globin chains than β‐globin chains. Some may lead to an unstable protein with a hemolytic or thalassemic phenotype. Hb Taybe is an unstable α‐chain hemoglobin variant caused by the deletion of a threonine residue at codon 38 or 39 of the α1 globin gene. This deletion results in a structural abnormality that affects the α1β2 contact and the α1β1 interface, producing a highly unstable Hb.

Objective

We describe the clinical, laboratory, and morphological characteristics of 43 patients with Hb Taybe, sixteen of whom are heterozygous, eight are homozygous, and nineteen are double heterozygous for Hb Taybe and other α‐gene mutations or deletions.

Results

The clinical presentation is very variable from a mild hemolytic anemia to the need for red cell transfusion. Morphological characteristics include erythroid hyperplasia, defective hemoglobin production, and dyserythropoietic features.

On electron microscopy dyserythropoiesis and cytoplasmic precipitation of globin compatible optical dense material is seen.

Conclusions

This is the largest report of Hb Taybe patients. Previous reported cohorts are not related to these cases. We conclude that patients carrying Hb Taybe have a unique hematological and clinical phenotype distinct from other hemoglobinopathies and from congenital dyserythropoietic anemia.
Post‐operative swallowing in multiple system atrophy
Authors: Ueha R. , Nito T. , Sakamoto T. , Yamauchi A. , Tsunoda K. , Yamasoba T.
Published: October 2015

Background

Some patients with multiple system atrophy (MSA) require surgical interventions such as tracheostomy and aspiration prevention. Few studies have investigated the postoperative clinical course of MSA patients. The aim of this study was to determine a management strategy for dysphagia and respiratory disorder in MSA.

Methods

From 2001 to 2014, 18 MSA patients (13 males and 5 females, 52–76 years) underwent tracheostomy (TR, n = 11) or laryngeal closure (LC, n = 12). Five patients underwent LC following TR. Vocal fold impairment, the degree of dysphagia and pre/post‐operative oral ingestion, and postoperative survival time were evaluated retrospectively. Swallowing function was assessed using the penetration aspiration scale (PAS).

Results

TR was performed due to respiratory disorder in seven patients and due to dysphagia in four patients. PAS scores ranged 1–8 in TR patients and 7–8 in LC patients. Seven of 11 patients who underwent TR displayed worsened PAS scores, and no patients displayed improved PAS scores following TR. All patients who underwent LC regained complete or partial oral intake after surgery. There were no significant differences in postoperative survival time between the two groups.

Conclusions

Considering the impacts of TR and LC on survival time, postoperative feeding and swallowing, LC is a good option for treating MSA patients with dysphagia.
Factors predictive of return to work after stroke in patients with mild−moderate disability in India
Authors: Bonner B. , Pillai R. , Sarma P. S. , Lipska K. J. , Pandian J. , Sylaja P. N.
Published: October 2015

Background

Successful return to work after stroke may improve economic circumstances, quality of life and overall life satisfaction, but not all stroke survivors are able to return to work.

Aim

Our aim was to determine what proportion of previously employed patients return to work after an acute stroke resulting in mild to moderate disability and to examine factors associated with a successful return to work.

Methods

Patients 18–60 years of age who were previously employed and who had a first‐ever stroke 3 months to 2 years previously resulting in mild to moderate disability (modified Rankin score ≤3) were recruited. Socio‐demographic and clinical information was collected and anxiety, depression and social support were assessed using previously validated instruments. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with a successful return to work.

Results

Of 141 patients (mean age ± SD 48 ± 8.8 years), 74 (52.5%) returned to work after stroke. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that a lower modified Rankin scale at 3 months [odds ratio (OR) 3.70, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.77–7.76], younger age (OR 2.24, 95% CI 1.07–4.67) and a professional or business job (OR 3.02, 95% CI 1.44–6.34) were significantly associated with successful return to work and revealed that anxiety, depression and social support score did not affect patients' decision to return to work (P = 0.17, 0.61 and 0.27, respectively).

Conclusions

Amongst patients with mild to moderate disability after stroke, almost half do not return to work, and this is determined by functional disability and type of job rather than psychosocial factors such as anxiety and depression.
Diffusion of radiodense contrast medium after a mid‐pastern ring block
Authors: Malton R. , Nagy A.
Published: October 2015

Diffusion of local anaesthetic solution after a mid‐pastern ring block has not previously been investigated. The aim of this study was to demonstrate potential distribution of local anaesthetic solution following injection of radiodense contrast medium as performed for a mid‐pastern ring block. Twelve mature horses were used and 1.5 ml radiodense contrast medium injected over the medial or lateral palmar digital nerve at the level of the proximal aspect of the ungular cartilages. A dorsal ring block was performed on the ipsilateral side, 1.5 cm proximal to the palpable palmar aspect of the proximal eminence of the middle phalanx, using 2 or 5 ml contrast medium. Both forelimbs were injected on 2 days (48 injections). Four standard radiographic views of the pastern were obtained immediately, 10 and 20 min after injections. Images were analysed subjectively and objectively. After dorsal injections, the contrast medium was distributed in a diffuse patch over the ipsilateral half of the proximal phalanx (P1), extending proximally over the half of the length of P1 in all limbs (greatest proximal extension: 89.0% of the length of P1 [from distal] after 2 ml, 94.2% after 5 ml). There was significant proximal diffusion in the first 10 min after injection and significant dorsal diffusion between all time points (P<0.01). There was significant positive association between injected volume and the proximal extension of the dorsal contrast patch (P = 0.01). The median dorsal diffusion was to the dorsal midline of P1; 5 ml contrast medium resulted in significantly greater dorsal diffusion than 2 ml (P<0.01). The dorsal and palmar contrast patches did not merge. In conclusion, diffusion to the proximal aspect of P1 following a mid‐pastern ring block may occur even if only 2 ml of local anaesthetic solution is used.
Zinc transporter 7 deficiency affects lipid synthesis in adipocytes by inhibiting insulin‐dependent Akt activation and glucose uptake
Authors: Tepaamorndech Surapun , Kirschke Catherine P. , Pedersen Theresa L. , Keyes William R. , Newman John W. , Huang Liping
Published: November 2015

Mice deficient for zinc transporter 7 protein (ZnT7) are mildly zinc deficient with low body weight gain and body fat accumulation. To investigate the underlying mechanism of ZnT7 deficiency in body adiposity, we examined fatty acid composition and insulin sensitivity in visceral (epididymal) and subcutaneous fat pads from Znt7 knockout and control mice. We showed that ZnT7 deficiency had adverse effects on fatty acid metabolism and insulin action in subcutaneous fat but not in epididymal fat in mice, consistent with the ZnT7 protein expression pattern in adipose tissues. Importantly, we found that the expression of ZnT7 protein was induced by lipogenic differentiation and reached a peak when the adipocyte was fully differentiated in mouse 3T3‐L1 adipocytes. We demonstrated, using Znt7 knockdown (Znt7KD) 3T3‐L1 adipocytes, that reduction in Znt7 expression blunted activations of the signal transduction pathways that regulated both basal and insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake in adipocytes, resulting in low glucose uptake and lipid accumulation. The expression of the signaling mediators critical for the initiation of pre‐adipocyte differentiation, including Pparγ and C/Ebpα, appeared not to be affected by Znt7KD in 3T3‐L1 adipocytes. These findings strongly suggest a role for ZnT7 in adipocyte lipogenesis.
Young Adults With Headaches: The Transition From Adolescents to Adults
Authors: O'Brien Hope L. , Cohen Joshua M.
Published: October 2015

Migraine is a common condition that for many begins in childhood and may progress over the course of one's life. The transition from adolescence to adulthood is a critical time for those who suffer from migraine and can be marked by a variety of important considerations for the patient and practitioner. Medication choices may be a challenge during adolescent years as Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved options are few and many more studies are needed to understand the benefits and risks of use of these agents in adolescents. However, as patients transition to adulthood, FDA approved options and the level of evidence improve significantly. Late adolescents may also struggle with a variety of psychiatric comorbidities that may simultaneously create challenges in determining treatment but also open opportunities to manage multiple comorbidities and address underlying depression, anxiety, and behavioral issues. For late adolescent girls, the beginning of sexual activity, onset of gynecologic conditions, or presence of irregular or painful menses may raise questions regarding the use of oral contraceptives (OCs). Given data on the risks of these medications in women with migraine, especially those with aura or those who smoke, important conversations between physicians and their migraine patients can help risk stratify and determine the risk/benefit profile for the potential use of these agents. Much more data are needed to fully understand the transition from adolescence to adulthood for those suffering with migraine and this article seeks to shed light on the limited understanding currently available in established literature.
Migraine headache and risk of self‐harm and suicide: A population‐based study in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Colman Ian , Kingsbury Mila , Sareen Jitender , Bolton James , van Walraven Carl
Published: October 2015

Background

Migraine has been associated with mental illness, and may also be associated with increased risk of suicidal behavior.

Objective

The aim of this article was to examine the association between migraine headache and self‐harm and suicide mortality using population‐based health administrative data from Ontario, Canada.

Methods

The sample included 101,114 participants in a population‐based health survey in the province of Ontario, Canada, who responded to the survey in 2003, 2005, or 2007, and provided health card numbers for linkage to population‐based health administrative data. Participants self‐reported a physician diagnosis of migraine headache. Heath administrative data were used to calculate (1) Follow‐up time until first presentation to the emergency department for intentional self‐harm; (2) Follow‐up time until death by suicide. Proportional subdistribution hazards regression was used to compare time until death among those with and without history of migraine, after accounting for competing risks of death and adjusting for confounders.

Results

Physician diagnosis of migraine was reported by 11.2% of the sample (11,314 individuals). Mean follow‐up time was 7.3 years. Emergency department visits for self‐harm during the follow‐up period were almost 50% more likely in those with migraine (76.4 vs 35.7 per 100,000 person years; adjusted hazard ratio = 1.48; 95%CI: 1.11,1.96). Death by suicide was rare with only 55 suicides in the follow‐up period (7.45 per 100,000 person‐years). Risk of suicide was similar for both those with and without history of migraine headache (adjusted hazard ratio=0.60; 95%CI: 0.22,1.65).

Conclusions

Physician diagnosis of migraine headache was found to be prospectively associated with increased risk of deliberate self‐harm, but there was no evidence linking it to suicide mortality. Definitively linking migraine to death by suicide may require very large samples. Health care professionals should consider monitoring suicidal risk in individuals with migraine headache.
XRCC1 rs25487 genetic variant and TP53 mutation at codon 249 predict clinical outcomes of hepatitis B virus‐related hepatocellular carcinoma after hepatectomy: A cohort study for 10 years’ follow up
Authors: Yu Long , Liu Xiaoguang , Han Chuangye , Lu Sichong , Zhu Guangzhi , Su Hao , Qi Wei , Liao Xiwen , Peng Tao
Published: October 2015

Aim

To investigate the effects of rs25487 (the DNA repair gene: x‐ray repair complementing defective repair in Chinese hamster cells 1 [XRCC1]) and codon 249 mutation (TP53 gene) on clinical outcomes of post‐hepatectomy hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐related HCC.

Methods

The XRCC1 rs25487 polymorphism and TP53 mutation at codon 249 of 485 hepatitis B surface antigen positive patients subjected to hepatectomy were genotyped via direct sequencing. SPSS software version 16.0 (SPSS, Chicago, IL, USA) was used to calculate survival of HCC patients according to primary end‐points.

Results

The presence of at least one A allele (AA/AG) of rs25487 was associated with unfavorable prognosis (P = 0.005). Moreover, A allele (AA/AG) carriers were significantly associated with high risk of vascular invasion (P = 0.025) and regional invasion (P = 0.005). Differences were not significant between mutant and wild‐type TP53 cases with overall survival (adjusted P = 0.400). Among the 485 participants, patients (n = 73) carrying both the A allele (AA/AG) of rs25487 and 249Ser TP53 mutation displayed decreased overall survival, compared with patients (n = 184) with the GG genotype of rs25487 and wild‐type codon 249 (adjusted P = 0.007).

Conclusion

Polymorphisms of rs25487 may play a potential role in survival of HBV‐related hepatocellular carcinoma patients following hepatectomy. While mutation at codon 249 of TP53 is not associated with HBV‐related HCC survival in this study.
The diagnostic challenge of mapping elephantiasis in the Tigray region of northern Ethiopia
Authors: Padovese Valeska , Marrone Rosalia , Dassoni Federica , Vignally Pascal , Barnabas Gebre A. , Morrone Aldo
Published: October 2015

Background

In Ethiopia, lymphatic filariasis and podoconiosis are the two neglected tropical diseases planned to be mapped together within the recently launched Ethiopian neglected tropical diseases master plan (2013–2015). However, other disorders cause tropical lymphedema, and this report aims to identify clinical epidemiological aspects of limb swelling in northern Ethiopia and to provide an algorithm orienting the clinical diagnosis.

Methods

Medical records of patients with lower limb elephantiasis attending the Italian Dermatological Centre of Mekele, Tigray capital city, over a 4‐year period (2005–2009) were retrospectively analyzed. Nine variables were collected from the charts comprising demographic data, job, origin, literacy, clinical, histopathologic, microscopic, and cultural findings.

Results

Over a total of 511 patients, lymphedema resulted from trauma (40.7%), chronic venous insufficiency (12.5%), deep mycoses (10.8%), lymphatic filariasis (9.2%), elephantiasis nostras verrucosa (7.0%), tropical ulcer (6.3%), leprosy (4.9%), recurrent infections (3.1%), podoconiosis (1.8%), tuberculosis (1.0%), malignancy (1.3%), Kaposi's sarcoma (1.0%), leishmaniasis (0.2%), and neurofibromatosis (0.2%).

Conclusions

Advanced‐stage elephantiasis, chronic osteomyelitis, and podoconiosis not previously reported in Tigray were observed. Further epidemiological investigation and training programs addressed to healthcare providers at the peripheral level are needed to detect elephantiasis early, prevent disabilities, and improve patients' quality of life.
Psoriasis in elderly patients in the Côte d'Ivoire: socio‐demographic, clinical, and therapeutic aspects, and follow‐up
Authors: Kassi Komenan , Djeha Djokouehi , Gbery Ildevert P. , Kouame Kanga , Sangaré Abdoulaye
Published: October 2015

Background

Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory, and recurrent dermatological disease. In the Côte d'Ivoire, it is about 0.75% of dermatology cases. Psoriasis care is challenging in elderly patients. We aimed to show its specificities related to the sociodemographic, clinical, and therapeutic aspects, and follow‐up in geriatric patients.

Methods

Cross‐sectional and descriptive study over a period of 10 years (January 2004–December 2013).

Results

The prevalence of patients 60 years of age and older was about 0.1% (47 of 46,623 cases). The average age was 67 ± 1 years ranging from 60 to 85 years. The sex ratio was 1 : 9 in favor of men. The average time course of psoriasis was 25 ± 2 months. Comorbidity was found in 27 cases (57.5%). The most observed type of psoriasis in our study was chronic plaque psoriasis in 51.1% of cases. We found severe cases of psoriasis in 25.5% of cases. More than 10% of the body surface area was affected in 27.6% of cases. We used topical treatments in the majority of cases (83%). The course of psoriasis under treatment was good in 63.8% of cases, and only 6.4% of cases were worsening.

Conclusion

Topical agents could be the first‐line treatment in geriatric patients in poor countries. If necessary, systemic agents should be used by taking into account the severity of psoriasis, presence of comorbidity factors, immune system level, and lifestyle.
Physico chemical, microstructural and sensory characteristics of low‐fat meat emulsion containing aloe gel as potential fat replacer
Authors: Kumar Yogesh , Kairam Narsaiah , Ahmad Tanbir , Yadav Deep N.
Published: October 2015

In this study, a possible use of aloe gel (AG) as a potential fat replacer in the manufacture of low‐fat meat emulsion was investigated. The low‐fat meat emulsions with added AG and vegetable oil (VO) in different proportions [AG7.5 (7.5% AG + 7.5% VO); AG5 (5% AG + 10% VO); AG2.5 (2.5% AG + 12.5% VO)] were compared with full‐fat meat emulsion [Control (15% VO only)]. A substantial fat reduction (P < 0.05) up to 50% as compared to full‐fat control meat emulsion was recorded without compromising other sensory attributes of meat emulsion. Microstructural properties as studied by scanning electron microscopy indicated more homogenous regular emulsion matrix with fewer cracks and more regular shaped oil droplets in AG‐added samples than the control samples.
Effects of fat replacement with a mixture of collagen and dietary fibre on small calibre fermented sausages
Authors: Ham Youn‐Kyung , Hwang Ko‐Eun , Kim Hyun‐Wook , Song Dong‐Heon , Kim Yong‐Jae , Choi Yun‐Sang , Kim Cheon‐Jei
Published: October 2015

Effects of fat replacement on physicochemical, microbial and sensory properties of fermented sausages were determined after drying process and 4 weeks of storage. Fermented sausages were formulated with 20% pork back fat (control), and three reduced‐fat treatments were prepared by replacing 25%, 50%, and 75% of fat with a mixture of collagen, dietary fibre and ice (1:1:8). TBARS values of reduced‐fat treatments were significantly lower compared with control after drying (P ≤ 0.05). As fat replacing ratio increased, fat content decreased significantly (P ≤ 0.05), whereas moisture, protein and ash content increased significantly (P ≤ 0.05). There was no marked difference between the treatments in terms of microbial analysis, sensory colour, flavour, off‐flavour or overall acceptability (P > 0.05) during refrigerated storage. Therefore, replacing pork back fat with a mixture of collagen and dietary fibre in fermented sausages may contribute to reduce lipid oxidation and maintain sensory properties during storage.
Zinc Isotopic Compositions of NIST SRM 683 and Whole‐Rock Reference Materials
Authors: Chen Sha , Liu Yuchen , Hu Jingya , Zhang Zhaofeng , Hou Zhenhui , Huang Fang , Yu Huimin
Published: October 2015

In this study the homogeneity of the zinc isotopic composition in the NIST SRM 683 reference material was examined by measuring the Zn isotopic signature in microdrilled sample powders from two metal nuggets. Zinc was purified using AG MP‐1M resin and then measured by MC‐ICP‐MS. Instrumental mass bias was corrected using the “sample‐standard bracketing” method and empirical external normalisation with Cu doping. After evaluating the potential effects of varying acid mass fractions and different matrices, high‐precision Zn isotope data were obtained with an intermediate measurement precision better than ± 0.05‰ (δ66Zn, 2s) over a period of 5 months. The δ66ZnJMC‐Lyon mean values of eighty‐four and fourteen drilled powders from two nuggets were 0.11 ± 0.02‰ and 0.12 ± 0.02‰, respectively, indicating that NIST SRM 683 is a good isotopic reference material with homogeneous Zn isotopes. The Zn isotopic compositions of seventeen rock reference materials were also determined, and their δ66Zn values were in agreement with most previously published data within 2s. The δ66Zn values of most of the rock reference materials analysed were in the range 0.22–0.36‰, except for GSP‐2 (1.07 ± 0.06‰, n = 12), NOD‐A‐1 (0.96 ± 0.03‰, n = 6) and NOD‐P‐1 (0.78 ± 0.03‰, n = 6). These comprehensive data should serve as reference values for quality assurance and interlaboratory calibration exercises.
Inherited Structural Heart Diseases With Potential Atrial Fibrillation Occurrence
Authors: MANUGUERRA ROBERTA , CALLEGARI SERGIO , CORRADI DOMENICO
Published: October 2015

AF in Inherited Structural Heart Diseases

Inherited cardiac diseases inducing structural remodeling of the myocardium sometimes develop arrhythmias of various kinds. Among these rhythm disturbances, atrial fibrillation is well known to frequently worsen the prognosis of the primary disorder by increasing morbidity and mortality, especially because of a higher rate of heart failure. In this manuscript, we have reviewed the literature on the most important inherited structural cardiac diseases in whose clinical history atrial fibrillation may occur fairly often.
Image contrast reduction mechanism in full‐field optical coherence tomography
Authors: GAO WANRONG
Published: November 2015

Correct interpretation of image contrast obtained with full‐field optical coherence tomography (FFOCT) technique is required for accurate medical diagnosis applications. In this work, first, the characteristics of microscopic structures of tissue that generate the contrast in en‐face tomographic image obtained with FFOCT are discussed. Then an overview is given of the parameters that affect image contrast. Finally, the contrast correction factor for correct image interpretation and the contrast limits to practical FFOCT systems are outlined.
In Search of Pathways out of Poverty: Mapping the Role of International Labour Migration, Agriculture and Rural Labour
Authors: Sunam Ramesh
Published: October 2015

The issue of rural poverty continues to shape critical academic and policy discourses in the global South. In such discourses, some scholars and policy‐makers highlight non‐agrarian pathways leading to prosperity, while others continue to emphasize the significance of land and farming for poverty reduction. However, such analyses tend not only to obscure strong linkages between agriculture, migration and rural labour, but also stay silent on how rural people interpret changes or continuities in their livelihoods. In this paper, I focus on the case of rural Nepal to unfold how some rural people, but not others, improve their livelihoods through international labour migration, farming and rural labour. This paper reveals that many poor people have experienced improved livelihoods pursuing a diverse portfolio of agricultural and non‐agricultural activities including labour migration. However, the dispossession of poor people from land and their adverse incorporation into the local and international labour markets continue to perpetuate chronic poverty.
Companion animals and well‐being in palliative care nursing: a literature review
Authors: MacDonald Julie M , Barrett David
Published: November 2015

Aims and objectives

To evaluate and critique current knowledge regarding the role of animals in palliative care. To explore the impact that animals may have on the well‐being of individuals and to identify gaps in the evidence base.

Background

There is recognition that having a companion animal will affect patient experience. Similarly, there has been some previous exploration on the use of specific animal assisted therapies for patients with different healthcare needs.

Design

A literature review was conducted to identify published and unpublished research about companion animals or animal‐assisted therapy in palliative and/or end‐of‐life care. The primary objective was to explore the impact of animals on well‐being at the end of life.

Methods

A search for literature was carried out using a variety of databases and different combinations of search terms linked to animals in palliative care. Included works were critically appraised and thematically analysed.

Results

A limited range of literature was identified. From the small number of studies included in the review (n = 4), it appears that there is some evidence of animals (either companion animals or those used specifically to enhance care) having a positive impact on the patient experience.

Conclusion

This study suggests that animals play a large part in the lives of people receiving palliative care. Using animals to support care may also offer some benefits to the patient experience. However, there appears to be a dearth of high‐quality literature in this area. More research is therefore required.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurses providing palliative care need to be aware of the part that a companion animal may play in the life of patients. There may also be the opportunity for nurses in some settings to integrate animal therapy into their provision of palliative care.
Long‐Term Survival of Dental Implants with Different Prosthetic Loading Times in Healthy Patients: A 5‐Year Retrospective Clinical Study
Authors: Muelas‐Jiménez M. Isabel , Olmedo‐Gaya Maria Victoria , Manzano‐Moreno Francisco J. , Reyes‐Botella Candela , Vallecillo‐Capilla Manuel
Published: November 2015

Purpose

To compare survival rates among dental implants restored with immediate, early, and conventional loading protocols, also comparing between maxillary and mandibular implants, and to evaluate the influence of implant length and diameter and the type of prosthesis on treatment outcomes.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective cohort study initially included all 52 patients receiving dental implants between July 2006 and February 2008 at a private oral surgery clinic in Granada (Southern Spain). Clinical and radiographic examinations were performed, including periapical or panoramic radiographs, and incidences during completion of the restoration were recorded at 1 week, 3 months, 6 months, and at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years. After a 5‐year follow‐up, 1 patient had died, 3 were lost to follow‐up, and 6 required grafting before implant placement; therefore, the final study sample comprised 42 patients with 164 implants.

Results

Variables associated with the survival/failure of the restoration were: number of implants (higher failure rate with fewer implants), bone type (higher failure rate in type III or IV bone), and type of prosthesis (higher failure rate with single crowns). No significant association was found in univariate or multivariate analyses between survival rate and the loading protocol, implant length or diameter, or maxillary/mandibular location.

Conclusions

Immediate occlusal loading, immediate provisionalization without occlusal loading, and early loading are viable treatment options with similar survival rates to those obtained with conventional loading. Bone quality and number of implants per patient were the most influential factors.