bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low serum chloride in patients with chronic heart failure: clinical associations and prognostic significance
Authors: Cuthbert Joseph J. , Pellicori Pierpaolo , Rigby Alan , Pan Daniel , Kazmi Syed , Shah Parin , Clark Andrew L.
Published: June 2018

Background

Low serum chloride is common in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) and is associated with worse outcomes. We investigated the clinical and prognostic associations, including cause of death associations, of low serum chloride in patients referred to a secondary care clinic with suspected heart failure.

Methods and results

Patients with echocardiogram and serum chloride were evaluated (n = 5613). CHF was defined as signs and symptoms of the disease and either left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) worse than mild [heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF)] or LVSD mild or better and raised amino‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) levels (>125 ng/L) [heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF)]. Hypochloraemia was defined as greater than two standard deviations below the mean in the local normal distribution (<96 mmol/L). Of the 5613 patients referred, 908 patients did not have CHF, 1988 had HFrEF, and 2717 had HFpEF. Compared to patients in the fourth quartile (median chloride 106 mmol/L), patients in the first quartile (median chloride 96 mmol/L) had more severe symptoms (38% New York Heart Association class III or IV vs. 25%, P < 0.001) and were more likely to take loop diuretics (79% vs. 55%, P < 0.001). The annual mortality rate for patients with CHF was 11%. Hypochloraemia was associated with an increased risk of death independent of NT‐proBNP. Patients in the first quartile had a two‐fold increased risk of death compared to patients in the fourth quartile (P < 0.001). Sudden death was a common mode of death amongst patients with hypochloraemia.

Conclusions

Hypochloraemia is strongly related to an adverse prognosis and may be a therapeutic target in patients with CHF.
Clinical characteristics of early onset anorexia nervosa
Authors: van Noort Betteke Maria , Lohmar Sylvie Katharina , Pfeiffer Ernst , Lehmkuhl Ulrike , Winter Sibylle Maria , Kappel Viola
Published: June 2018

The aim of the current paper is to evaluate clinical characteristics of 30 children with early onset anorexia nervosa (EO‐AN; age = 12.2 ± 1.6 years) compared with 30 patients with adolescent onset AN (AO‐AN; age = 15.9 ± 0.7 years) and 60 age‐matched healthy controls. Statistical analyses included one‐way analyses of variance with three planned comparisons and chi‐square tests. Compared with AO‐AN, EO‐AN patients displayed more restrictive eating behaviour (p = 0.038), received more tube‐feeding (p = 0.024), and had less problems with self‐esteem (p < 0.001) and perfectionism (p = 0.001). EO‐AN patients have similar eating disorder pathology (p = 0.183), body‐image distortion (p = 0.060), and number of hospitalizations (p = 0.358) as AO‐AN. Only a third of EO‐AN patients suffer from low self‐esteem. Overall, core AN pathology seems similar in EO‐AN and AO‐AN. However, EO‐AN patients show differences in their pathological eating behaviour and the need for tube‐feeding.
Provenance of the Cenozoic Bengal Basin sediments: Insights from U–Pb ages and Hf isotopes of detrital zircons
Authors: Yang Lei , Xiao Wenjiao , Julleh Jalalur Rahman M. , Windley Brian F. , Schulmann Karel , Ao Songjian , Chen Zhenyu , Li Rui
Published: June 2018

The Bengal Basin is located in the foreland of the eastern Himalaya and records late Palaeocene to Pleistocene sedimentation. This makes the Bengal Basin an ideal place to study the evolution of the eastern Himalaya by provenance researches. Even though there have been several studies about its provenance, a consensus has not been reached about when the Himalayan and Gangdese‐derived detritus started to deposit in the eastern Himalayan foreland. Here, we study the provenance of Eocene to Pleistocene sedimentary successions of the Bengal Basin by detrital zircon U–Pb geochronology and Hf isotope analyses. Detrital zircon U–Pb age spectra show a predominant peak of ~470–580 Ma in all the samples. A peak at this time is prominent in sediments of the Tethyan Himalaya and Lesser Himalaya, which means the detritus eroded from Himalaya may have been deposited in the Bengal Basin after the late Palaeocene‐early Eocene, synchronous with detritus derived from the western and central Himalaya. Gangdese‐derived zircons were firstly recorded in the late Eocene Kopili Formation, and they were sporadic from the late Eocene to middle Miocene, which was probably due to the long distance between the Bengal Basin and the Lhasa Block, to the forebulge in the Lesser Himalayan Sequence, or to a wide tectonic separation at that time. The first influx of abundant Gangdese‐derived zircons occurred in the lower part of the Boka Bil Formation in the late Miocene (~10 Ma), which was probably caused either by the Brahmaputra River capturing the Yarlung Tsangpo River or by a much later terminal collision between India and Eurasia, or both.
Morphology and chemistry of placer gold in the Bagrote and Dainter streams, northern Pakistan: Implications for provenance and exploration
Authors: Alam Masroor , Li Sheng‐Rong , Santosh M. , Yuan Mao‐Wen
Published: June 2018

The Bagrote and Dainter valleys in Gilgit Baltistan Pakistan, belonging to the Kohistan island arc and southwestern domain of the Karakorum metamorphic complex, respectively, are a location of regional placer gold mining. However, no in situ hydrothermal gold deposits have been discovered in this region. Here, we report the textural, morphological, and geochemical characteristics of placer gold from the stream sediments of the Bagrote and Dainter valleys with a view to trace the provenance. The morphological features of the studied gold grains indicate proximal source mineralization. The gold grains display a microtexture typical of mechanical abrasion rather than chemical activity. Their chemical composition of most of the grains from each stream falls in a restricted range (minor alloying elements mainly Cu) with high fineness (1,000 Au/(Au + Ag)), suggesting derivation from a homogeneous source or limited number of mineralization types. The high Cu content of the gold grains from the Bagrote stream suggests that the gold here might be associated with previously undiscovered porphyry gold mineralization, whereas the Au–Ag–Hg alloys from the Dainter stream suggest a genetic linkage with undiscovered fault‐controlled auriferous veins of epithermal origin in the southwestern part of the Karakorum metamorphic complex. The chemical composition of both streams placer gold in triangular diagram in terms of Au–Ag–Cu shows all the gold grains from Dainter stream were derived from epithermal type of mineralization, and most of the plots of Bagrote stream fall on the domain of porphyry epithermal type of deposits which are also in consistent with a continental arc setting in the study area. The mechanically developed microtexture, homogeneous chemical composition in individual grains from core to rim, and absence of high fineness rims of the gold grains from both streams, suggest the absence of any supergene regrowth and direct transfer from the primary source through glacier to the fluvial system. The Gilgit Baltistan province, dominated by dry temperate climate and glacial environment having steep geomorphology, precluding any significant supergene processes such as silver leaching and addition of authigenic gold on detrital gold grains.
First report of a Messinian coralgal facies in a terrigenous setting of Central Apennines (Italy) and its palaeogeographic significance
Authors: Fabbi Simone , Santantonio Massimo
Published: June 2018

The upper Miocene dominantly terrigenous succession cropping out at Monte San Fabrizio (Simbruini Mts.) shows peculiar, previously unreported bio‐sedimentological features, which bring fresh elements in a regional palaeogeographic/palaeotectonic key. Overlying the regional foredeep succession, an array of different lithofacies either form mappable outcrops or occur as clasts, remarkably not referable to any stratigraphic units already known in the Central Apennines. These lithologies, which include coral‐bearing siliciclastic sediments, mixed carbonate/siliciclastic deposits with benthic macrofaunas, rhodalgal facies, and conglomerates, essentially made of Mesozoic pelagic lithoclasts, are here grouped in a comprehensive informal unit, called Monte San Fabrizio Unit (MSFU). The most striking feature of the MSFU is a coralgal facies characterized by the occurrence of zooxanthellate (z) corals (Porites and Siderastrea crenulata). While the age of these deposits is not directly determinable due to the lack of biostratigraphic markers, their composition and field relationships clearly place their origin within a late‐orogenic setting: only the uplift, subaerial exposure, and erosion of large portions of the pre‐orogenic stratigraphy, also belonging to different geological domains, and subsequent sediment transport by rivers, can account for the heterogeneous composition of the conglomerates. Their sedimentological characters (i.e., shape and size of the clasts) suggest reworking of the pebbles in a shore environment. A shallow marine photic environment is confirmed by the presence of z‐corals, red algae, and abundant macrofauna. The occurrence of Porites and Siderastrea crenulata represents the first occurrence of corals subsequent to the drowning of the bryozoan limestone carbonate factory, being the youngest occurrence of corals in the Central Apennines and the first ever post‐Burdigalian z‐corals described in the region. This also constrains the age of the MSFU as early–middle (pre‐evaporitic) Messinian, due to the almost total demise of z‐corals known in the Mediterranean in response to the Messinian Salinity Crisis. In conclusion, sedimentology, palaeobiology, and field geology all point to a shallow‐water environment, close to a shoreline, for the MSFU. This unit can be interpreted as representing the vestiges of an ephemeral depositional environment, such as a small wedge‐top basin, an evidence that this portion of the Apennine chain was already structured in the early–middle Messinian.
Comparing task‐induced psychophysiological responses between persons with stress‐related complaints and healthy controls: A methodological pilot study
Authors: Smets Elena , Schiavone Giuseppina , Velazquez Emmanuel Rios , De Raedt Walter , Bogaerts Katleen , Van Diest Ilse , Van Hoof Chris
Published: June 2018

Aims

Chronic stress is an important factor for a variety of health problems, highlighting the importance of early detection of stress‐related problems. This methodological pilot study investigated whether the physiological response to and recovery from a stress task can differentiate healthy participants and persons with stress‐related complaints.

Methods and Results

Healthy participants (n = 20) and participants with stress‐related complaints (n = 12) participated in a laboratory stress test, which included 3 stress tasks. Three physiological signals were recorded: galvanic skin response (GSR), heart rate (HR), and skin temperature (ST). From these signals, 126 features were extracted, including static (eg, mean) and dynamic (eg, recovery time) features. Unsupervised feature selection reduced the set to 26 features. A logistic regression model was developed for 6 feature sets, analysing single‐parameter and multiparameter models as well as models using recovery vs response‐related features. The highest classification performance (accuracy = 78%) was obtained using the response‐related feature set, including all physiological signals and using GSR‐related features. A worse performance was obtained using single‐signal feature sets based on HR (accuracy = 66%) and ST (accuracy = 59%). Response‐related features outperformed recovery‐related features (accuracy = 63%).

Conclusion

Participants with stress‐related complaints may be differentiated from healthy controls by physiological responses to stress tasks. We aimed to bring attention to new exploratory methodologies; further research is needed to validate and replicate the results on larger populations and patients on different areas along the stress continuum.
Eight‐type human papillomavirus E6/E7 oncoprotein detection as a novel and promising triage strategy for managing HPV‐positive women
Authors: Rezhake Remila , Hu Shang‐Ying , Zhao Shuang , Xu Xiao‐Qian , Zhao Xue‐Lian , Zhang Li , Wang Yan , Zhang Xun , Pan Qin‐Jing , Qiao You‐Lin , Zhao Fang‐Hui
Published: June 2018

The management of HPV‐positive women becomes particularly crucial in cervical cancer screening. Here we assessed whether detection of E6 or E7 oncoproteins targeting eight most prevalent HPV types could serve as a promising triage option. Women (N = 1,416) aged 50–60 from Shanxi, China underwent screening with HPV testing and liquid‐based cytology (LBC), with any positive results referring to colposcopy and biopsy if necessary. Women with HPV‐positive results received further tests using DNA‐based genotyping, E6 or E7 oncoprotein detection targeting HPV16/18 (for short: E6 (16/18) Test) or HPV16/18/31/33/35/45/52/58 (for short: E6/E7 (8 types) Test), respectively. Among HPV‐positive women, E6/E7 (8 types) oncoproteins had lower positivity (17.37%) compared to DNA‐based genotyping for same eight types (58.30%) and LBC with ASC‐US threshold (50.97%); HPV16 was the genotype showing the highest frequency (8.49%) for oncoprotein detection followed by HPV52 (3.47%), 58 (2.32%), 33 (1.54%), 18 (1.16%), 45 (0.77%), 35 (0.39%) and 31 (0%). For detection of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia Grade 3 or higher (CIN3+), E6/E7 (8 types) Test had similar sensitivity (100.00%) and superior specificity (85.94%) as well as positive predictive value (PPV, 22.22%) compared to both LBC and DNA‐based genotyping (8 types); For detection of CIN2+, E6/E7 (8 types) Test was less sensitive (67.74%) but still more specific (89.47%) and risk predictive with PPV of 46.67%. Notably, E6/E7 (8 types) Test remarkably decreased the number of colposcopies needed to detect one CIN2+ and CIN3+ (2.14 and 4.50). E6/E7 oncoprotein detection showed a good “trade‐off” between sensitivity and specificity with more efficient colposcopy referrals, which is of great importance to maximize the benefits of HPV‐based screening program, especially applicable for the areas with high HPV prevalence and low‐resources.
Randomised study of HPV prevalence and detection of CIN2+ in vaginal self‐sampling compared to cervical specimens collected by medical personnel
Authors: Gustavsson Inger , Aarnio Riina , Berggrund Malin , Hedlund‐Lindberg Julia , Sanner Karin , Wikström Ingrid , Enroth Stefan , Olovsson Matts , Gyllensten Ulf
Published: June 2018

We conducted a randomised study to compare vaginal self‐sampling with assisted sampling by medical personnel on the cervix for HPV testing in primary screening. The first aim was to determine if the HPV prevalence is independent of sampling location (vagina versus cervix) and the person performing the sampling. The second aim was to evaluate if the two sampling strategies differed in the detection rate of CIN2+. In total, 19,523 women were randomised into two groups, with 9926 invited to perform self‐sampling (SS arm) using the Rover VIBA‐brush and 9597 offered assisted sampling using the cytobrush (AS arm). All samples were applied to the indicating FTA elute card and analysed for high‐risk HPV using the hpVIR real‐time PCR assay. The outcome for the first aim was HPV prevalence and for the second aim the number of CIN2+ based on histology. In the SS arm, 52.7% of invited women participated in the study, as compared to 34.2% in the AS arm. All samples contained sufficient amount of nuclear DNA for a valid HPV result, with vaginal samples having a higher DNA amount than cervical samples (p < 4.62 × 10−11). HPV prevalence was 4.6% in the SS arm and 4.1% in the AS arm (p = 5.5 × 10−2), and the distribution of HPV types similar between arms. There was no difference in the prevalence of CIN2+ per 1000 women screened between arms (p = 0.86). The results show that vaginal self‐sampling is an equivalent alternative to sampling by medical personnel for HPV typing and identification of CIN2+.
Contemporary Issues in Women's Health
Authors: Boama Vincent , Guinto Valerie T. , Sosa Claudio G. , Geary Michael
Published: June 2018

Safety of a trial of labor after one previous cesarean delivery

The best uterotonic agent for the prevention of postpartum hemorrhage

WHO recommendations on intrapartum care for a positive childbirth experience

Sugared beverages and in vitro fertilization outcomes

Resources for Women's Health
Texts, Identities, and Ethics: Critical Literacy in a Post‐Truth World
Authors: Janks Hilary
Published: June 2018

This department explores critical perspectives on issues at the intersection of policy and practice in order to generate fresh questions about enduring dilemmas, new challenges, and debates.
Texts' Distant Shores: Philosophy in and Philosophy Out
Authors: Tatum Alfred W.
Published: June 2018

This forum focuses on the intersections of texts and identities with the aim of selecting and mediating texts that readers and writers find valuable within and outside of formal educational settings.
Forkhead‐box R2 promotes metastasis and growth by stimulating angiogenesis and activating hedgehog signaling pathway in ovarian cancer
Authors: Li Bing , Huang Wei , Cao Ning , Lou Ge
Published: June 2018

Overexpression of forkhead‐box R2 (FoxR2) is related to metastasis and progression of tumor. However, its biological functions in ovarian cancer (OC) progression remain unclear. Herein, we aimed to explore the changes in biological functions and molecular events related to FoxR2 overexpression. We found that FoxR2 is upregulated frequently in OC where these events are associated with worse histologic grade and poor survival. Enhanced expression of FoxR2 was related to cell growth, migration, and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition, whereas silencing of FoxR2 suppressed these malignant phenotypes. In addition, angiogenesis was stimulated by FoxR2 overexpression by enhancing vascular endothelial growth factor expression. Further mechanistic investigations revealed that the increase in cell surface FoxR2 promoted sonic hedgehog binding and signaling. Inhibiting hedgehog pathway with sonidegib decreased FoxR2‐induced migration and lung metastasis of OC cells, establishing the critical role of hedgehog signaling in mediating the effects of FoxR2 expression. Taken together, our results indicate that FoxR2 overexpression in OC contributes to malignant behavior in cancer cells, at least in part through stimulating angiogenesis and activation of the hedgehog signaling pathway. Hedgehog signaling pathway activation may be the key in tumor progression mediated by FoxR2.
Let's think again about using mammalian temperature‐sensitive mutants to investigate functional molecules—The perspectives from the studies on three mutants showing chromosome instability
Authors: Sugaya Kimihiko
Published: June 2018

This review evaluates the use of temperature‐sensitive (ts) mutants to investigate functional molecules in mammalian cells. A series of studies were performed in which mammalian cells expressing functional molecules were isolated from ts mutants using complementation by the introduction and expression of the responsible protein tagged with the green fluorescent protein. The results showed that chromosome instability and cell‐cycle arrest were caused by ts defects in the following three molecules: the largest subunit of RNA polymerase II, a protein involved in splicing, and ubiquitin‐activating enzyme. The cells expressing functional protein were then isolated by introducing the responsible gene tagged with the green fluorescent protein to complement the ts phenotype. These cells proved to be useful in analyzing the dynamics of RNA polymerase II in living cells. Analyses of the functional interaction between proteins involved in splicing were also useful in the investigation of ts mutants and their derivatives. In addition, these cells demonstrated the functional localization of ubiquitin‐activating enzyme in the nucleus. Mammalian ts mutants continue to show great potential to aid in understanding the functions of the essential molecules in cells. Therefore, it is highly important that studies on the identification and characterization of the genes responsible for the phenotype of a mutant are carried out.
MiR‐126 correlates with increased disease severity and promotes keratinocytes proliferation and inflammation while suppresses cells' apoptosis in psoriasis
Authors: Feng Shike , Wang Lin , Liu Wang , Zhong Yan , Xu Shijun
Published: June 2018

Background

This study aimed to investigate the miR‐126 expression in lesional skin and its correlation with clinical features in psoriasis patients and to explore the effect of upregulated miR‐126 on cells' proliferation, apoptosis, and inflammation in human keratinocytes.

Methods

A total of 102 psoriasis patients were consecutively enrolled in this study. MiR‐126 expressions in lesional skin and paired nonlesional skin were detected by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Human keratinocytes (HaCaT cells) were transfected with miR‐126 mimic plasmids and blank mimic plasmid. Cell Counting Kit‐8 and annexin V/propidium iodide assays were performed to assess the cells' proliferation and apoptosis, and protein levels of apoptotic markers (cleaved caspase‐3 [C‐caspase‐3] and B‐cell lymphoma‐2 [Bcl‐2]) were detected by Western blot assay. Inflammatory cytokines mRNA and protein levels were detected by qPCR and Western blot assays, respectively.

Results

MiR‐126 expression was upregulated in lesional skin tissue compared with paired nonlesional skin tissue, and its expression positively associated with Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score in psoriasis patients. MiR‐126 expression was increased in miR‐126 mimic group compared with negative control (NC) mimic group after plasmids transfection into HaCaT cells, and cells' proliferation was enhanced while cells' apoptosis rate was reduced in miR‐126 mimic group than NC mimic group. Protein expressions of C‐caspase and Bcl‐2 also indicated miR‐126 mimic decreased the cells' apoptosis. In addition, miR‐126 mimic increased TNF‐α, IFN‐γ, IL‐17A, and IL‐22 expressions while decreased IL‐10 expression.

Conclusion

In conclusion, miR‐126 correlates with elevated risk and increased disease severity in psoriasis patients, and upregulation of miR‐126 promotes cells' proliferation and inflammation while inhibits cells' apoptosis in keratinocytes.
High frequency of variant RHD genotypes among donors and patients of mixed origin with serologic weak‐D phenotype
Authors: Dezan Marcia Regina , Oliveira Valéria B. , Gomes Çarolina Nunes , Luz Fabio , Gallucci Antônio J. , Bonifácio Silvia L. , Alencar Cecília Salete , Sabino Ester C. , Pereira Alexandre C. , Krieger Jose E. , Rocha Vanderson , Mendrone‐Junior Alfredo , Dinardo Carla L.
Published: June 2018

Background

The current transfusion policy recommended for individuals with serologic weak‐D phenotype is based on data derived from European‐descent populations. Data referring to the distribution of RH alleles underlying weak‐D phenotype among people of mixed origin are yet incomplete, and the applicability of European‐based transfusion guidelines to this specific population is questionable.

Goal

To evaluate the distribution of RHD variant genotype among individuals with serologic weak‐D phenotype of both African and European descent.

Methods

Donors and patients of mixed origin and with serologic weak‐D phenotype were selected for the study. They were investigated using conventional RHD‐PCR assays and RHD whole‐coding region direct sequencing.

Results

One hundred and six donors and 58 patients were included. There were 47 donors and 29 patients with partial‐D genotype (47/106, 44.3%, and 29/58, 50%, respectively). RHD*DAR and RHD*weak D type 38 represented the most common altered RHD alleles among donors (joint frequency of 39.6%), while weak D types 1‐3 accounted for 10.4% of the total D variant samples. RHD*DAR was the most common allele identified in the patient group (frequency of 31%), and weak D types 1‐3 represented 29.3% of the total.

Conclusion

The frequency of partial D among mixed individuals with serologic weak‐D phenotype is high. They should be managed as D‐negative patients until molecular tests are complete.
Characteristic and influencing factors of Taqman genotyping calling error
Authors: Yu Songcheng , Li Xing , Liu Xinxin , Wang Yan , Yu Fei , Xue Yuan , Mao Zhenxing , Wang Chongjian , Li Wenjie
Published: June 2018

Background

Taqman fluorescent probe was frequently applied in single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping. However, the characteristic of calling error and the influencing factors remain unclear.

Method

Calling errors of Taqman genotyping was evaluated systematically based on Mendelian inheritance. Twenty‐two SNPs were genotyped by Taqman probe for 419 pedigrees. Mendelian genetic errors were counted for every SNP and pedigree. Cluster analysis was applied to investigate the compatibility between Taqman probes and DNA sample.

Results

On one hand, errors were found for all the SNPs. The error number ranged from 4 to 33 with median of 10.5. On the other hand, Mendelian genetic errors showed features of both randomness and cluster. Half of the pedigrees containing errors had only 1 Mendelian genetic error. But there was also a pedigree containing up to 10 Mendelian genetic errors. Furthermore, cluster analysis indicated that errors of different SNPs took place in different pedigree cluster.

Conclusion

It could be concluded that calling error is inevitable for Taqman genotyping of large samples. The quality of Taqman probe and DNA sample, as well as their compatibility, may account for the error incidence.
Plasma markers of myocardial inflammation at isolated atrial fibrillation
Authors: Sazonova Svetlana Ivanovna , Ilushenkova Julia Nikolaevna , Batalov Roman Efimovich , Gusakova Anna Mihaylovna , Saranchina Julia Vladimirovna , Rogovskaya Julia Viktorovna , Popov Sergey Valentinovich
Published: June 2018

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the widest spread forms of arrhythmia, which is associated with the increased mortality and thromboembolic complications. To date, the involvement of renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system and immunomediators of inflammation into the mechanisms of development and maintenance of isolated AF is not clear. Specificity of their changes with respect to the latent myocarditis at AF is not proved.

Methods

In 96 patients with persistent isolated atrial fibrillation (IsAF), scheduled for radiofrequency ablation and endomyocardial biopsy (EMB), and in 20 healthy volunteers (HVT), levels of plasma tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10, fatty acid‐binding protein (FABP), neopterin, C‐reactive protein (CRP) were determined by ELISA, level of aldosterone and the renin activity were determined by radioimmunoassay. Results were compared between the study and HVT groups and related to the EMB data.

Results

Endomyocardial biopsy revealed lymphocytic myocarditis in 29%, immunohistochemical signs of viruses' persistence in the myocardium—in 43.8% of patient. We formed 4 subgroups: «myocarditis», «fibrosis», «virus positive», «virus negative». In the group «myocarditis», level of IL‐6 was significantly higher than in group «fibrosis» (P < .01). ROC analysis showed its sensitivity 75%, specificity 75% (AUC = 0.759, Cutoff Value > 1.6 pg/mL, P < .01). In the group «virus positive», level of neopterin was significantly higher than in group «virus negative» (P < .01), with sensitivity 51%, specificity 84% (AUC = 0.675, Cutoff Value > 13.2 nmol/L, P < .01).

Conclusion

Levels of plasma IL‐6 and neopterin may serve as a marker of latent viral myocarditis in IsAF.
Osteochondral resurfacing implantation angle is more important than implant material stiffness
Authors: Heuijerjans Ashley , Wilson Wouter , Ito Keita , van Donkelaar Corrinus C.
Published: June 2018

Osteochondral resurfacing implants are a promising treatment for focal cartilage defects. Several implant‐factors may affect the clinical outcome of this treatment, such as the implant material stiffness and the accuracy of implant placement, known to be challenging. In general, softer implants are expected to be more accommodating for implant misalignment than stiffer implants, and motion is expected to increase effects from implant misalignment and stiffness. 3D finite element models of cartilage/cartilage contact were employed in which implantation angle (0°, 5°, 10°) and implant material stiffness (E = 5 MPa, 100 MPa, 2 GPa) were varied. A creep loading (0.6 MPa) was simulated, followed by a sliding motion. Creep loading resulted in low maximum collagen strains of 2.5% in the intact case compared to 11.7% with an empty defect. Implants mostly positively affected collagen strains, deviatoric strains, and hydrostatic pressures in the adjacent cartilage, but these effects were superior for correct alignment (0°). The main effect of implant misalignment was bulging of opposing cartilage tissue into the gap caused by the misalignment. This increased collagen strains and hydrostatic pressures. Deviatoric strains were increased adjacent to the gap. Subsequent sliding initially increased strains for a stiff, misaligned implant, but generally sliding decreased strains. In conclusion, implants can decrease the detrimental effect of defects, but correct implant alignment is crucial, more than implant material stiffness. Implant misalignment causes a gap, causing potentially damaging cartilage deformation during prolonged loading, for example, standing, even for soft implants. Mild motion may positively affect the cartilage. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research® published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Orthopaedic Research Society. J Orthop Res 36:2911–2922, 2018.
A novel U‐shaped relationship between BMI and risk of generalized aggressive periodontitis in Chinese: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Li Wenjing , Shi Dong , Song Wenli , Xu Li , Zhang Li , Feng Xianghui , Lu Ruifang , Wang Xiane , Meng Huanxin
Published: June 2018

Background

Association between BMI and periodontitis were controversial. A study indicated that not only overweight or obesity but also underweight was correlated with generalized aggressive periodontitis (GAgP). However, the exact relationship between BMI and GAgP and the optimal BMI value for the lowest risk of GAgP remain unknown.

Objective

To explore the exact relationship between BMI and GAgP risk, periodontal status and WBC (white blood cell) count and find the optimal BMI value associated with the lowest risk, periodontal status and lowest WBC of GAgP in Chinese.

Methods

300 GAgP patients and 133 healthy controls were recruited. Height and weight of participants were accurately measured to calculate BMI value. Clinical periodontal parameters, including probing depth (PD), attachment loss (AL), and bleeding index (BI) were recorded. WBC was obtained from routine blood examination. Smooth curve fitting and segmented regression model were used to analyze the threshold effect between BMI and variables. The shape of the curve was used to describe the relationships between BMI and GAgP.

Results

U‐shaped relationships between BMI and risk of GAgP, AL, and WBC count in GAgP patients were observed. The optimal value of BMI for the lowest risk of GAgP and lowest WBC count was 22 kg/m2. The risk of GAgP increased by 39% in patients per unit increase of BMI when BMI ranged from 22 to 28 kg/m2(adjusted OR = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.17, 1.67) and increased by 18% per unit decrease of BMI when BMI ranged from 22 to 18 kg/m2(adjusted OR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.69, 0.97). The count of WBC increased by 1.12 × 109/L in patients per unit increase of BMI when BMI ranged from 22 to 28 kg/m2(adjusted β = 0.12, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.23) and increased by 0.2 × 109/L per unit decrease of BMI when BMI ranged from 22 to18 kg/m2(adjusted β = −0.2, 95% CI: −0.35, −0.04).

Conclusion

U‐shaped relationships exist between BMI and risk of GAgP, AL, and WBC count in patients with GAgP among Chinese aged below 36 years old with their BMI range from 18 to 28 kg/m2; the optimal BMI value for lowest odds ratio and lowest WBC count of GAgP was 22 kg/m2.
Geographic Variation in the Reproductive Ecology of the Panamic Grunt in the Southeastern Gulf of California
Authors: Lara Mendoza Raúl E. , Amezcua Felipe
Published: June 2018

Biological parameters pertaining to the reproductive ecology of the Panamic Grunt Pomadasys panamensis were investigated in 788 individuals sampled from the southeastern Gulf of California between November 2009 and October 2010. Length frequency distributions and mean TLs differed between sampling areas, with organisms from the coastal population exhibiting two clear modes that included most of the organisms (mostly adults; mean TL = 25.7 cm), while the open sea population appeared to consist of several cohorts (mean TL = 19.5 cm). Significant differences were recorded in spawning activity, gonadosomatic index (GSI), gonad weight, and size at maturity between fish from the coastal area and specimens from the open sea. The highest gonad weights and GSI values were recorded in the coastal zone during spring, coinciding with a peak in the number of mature females. In the open sea, the mature individuals were reproductively inactive throughout most of the yearlong study period, as individuals in late maturity stages represented a small portion of the sample. Female TL at 50% maturity (i.e., L50) was significantly lower in the coastal zone than in the open sea. The results suggest a differential use of available habitats by Panamic Grunts and highlight a need to consider temporal and geographic differences in reproductive ecology when formulating an adequate management program for this species.
Assessing Variability in Juvenile Brown Shrimp Growth Rates in Small Marsh Ponds: An Exercise in Model Evaluation and Improvement
Authors: Leo Jennifer P. , Minello Thomas J. , Grant William E.
Published: June 2018

Brown shrimp Farfantepenaeus aztecus support a commercially important fishery in the northern Gulf of Mexico, and the juvenile shrimp use coastal estuaries as nurseries. Production of young shrimp from these nurseries, and hence commercial harvest of adults from the Gulf, is highly variable from year to year. Our recently published, individual based model attempted to explain this variability as a function of habitat and the environmental factors such as temperature, salinity, and access to intertidal marsh habitat. We conducted a mark–recapture field study between April 12 and June 9, 2011, to provide growth rate data for model testing, as well as to further examine factors that affect growth, including available food biomass. Brown shrimp growth rates were measured in three polyhaline marsh ponds over periods of 2 to 4 weeks. We recorded hourly temperature and flooding data and measured biomass of infaunal food organisms. We parameterized our production model with input from 2011 to compare modeled output with observed data. Mean growth rate estimates from the model were similar to the estimated mean growth rate observed in the field (1.13 mm/d and 1.06 mm/d, respectively); however, field growth rates differed significantly among three marsh ponds (1.02, 1.03, and 1.26 mm/d). Data on infaunal biomass suggest that spatial and temporal variability in available food organisms is related to differences in shrimp growth, and the inclusion of such information may enhance the model.
Detection of Plasma Curcuminoids from Dietary Intake of Turmeric‐Containing Food in Human Volunteers
Authors: Mahale Jagdish , Singh Rajinder , Howells Lynne M. , Britton Robert G. , Khan Sameena M. , Brown Karen
Published: June 2018

Scope

Curcumin (from turmeric), has been extensively investigated for potential beneficial properties in numerous diseases. Most work has focused on supra‐dietary concentrations/doses that would necessitate curcumin supplementation. However, much evidence instigating curcumin research is underpinned by epidemiological data based on low dietary intake via turmeric consumption.

Methods and results

Here, a novel, highly sensitive liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization–mass spectrometry (LC‐ESI‐MS/MS) method for detection of curcuminoids is described. Assay sensitivity is demonstrated in a pilot pharmacokinetic volunteer study following ingestion of foodstuffs containing a standardized mass of turmeric, representative of daily consumption by certain South Asian populations. Free parent curcumin was detectable in plasma from one individual, reaching maximal plasma concentrations (Cmax) of 3.2 nm. Curcumin conjugates were detected in all volunteers; Cmax for curcumin glucuronide is 47.6 ± 28.5 nm 30 min post‐food, while Cmax for demethoxycurcumin glucuronide and curcumin sulfate is ≈2 nm. Curcumin and its major metabolites persist in plasma for at least 8 h.

Conclusion

Despite poor absorption and rapid conjugation, dietary intake of standard culinary turmeric within complex food matrices furnished human plasma with detectable levels of curcuminoids. Whether sustained low systemic concentrations of these non‐nutritive, biologically active, dietary components may have pharmacological activity for human health benefit, warrants further research.
Urine flow rate curve shapes and their descriptors
Authors: Li Rui , Zhu Quan , Nibouche Mokhtar , Gammie Andrew
Published: June 2018

Aims

To review the descriptors and definitions of urine flow rate curve shape with a view to promoting greater clarity and to propose standard terms

Methods

A search was made in the PubMed and ICS standardization documents on urine flow rate curve shape.

Results

The flow shape descriptors and their definitions are summarized and presented. “Normal” was widely used for describing a bell‐shaped flow curve, and “plateau” was mostly used where the ICS describe “constrictive” flow shape. The use of shape descriptors “fluctuating,” “compressive,” “tower‐shaped,” and “intermittent” varied in the literature.

Conclusion

This survey provides an overview of flow shape descriptors and their definitions. We suggest it is clearer to use only descriptors that describe shape alone, that is, normal, fluctuating, intermittent, and plateau, with comments on symmetry and Qmax.
Small‐animal, whole‐body imaging with metamaterial‐inspired RF coil
Authors: Zubkov Mikhail , Hurshkainen Anna A. , Brui Ekaterina A. , Glybovski Stanislav B. , Gulyaev Mikhail V. , Anisimov Nikolai V. , Volkov Dmitry V. , Pirogov Yury A. , Melchakova Irina V.
Published: June 2018

Particular applications in preclinical magnetic resonance imaging require the entire body of an animal to be imaged with sufficient quality. This is usually performed by combining regions scanned with small coils with high sensitivity or long scans using large coils with low sensitivity. Here, a metamaterial‐inspired design employing a parallel array of wires operating on the principle of eigenmode hybridization was used to produce a small‐animal imaging coil. The coil field distribution responsible for the coil field of view and sensitivity was simulated in an electromagnetic simulation package and the coil geometrical parameters were optimized for whole‐body imaging. A prototype coil was then manufactured and assembled using brass telescopic tubes with copper plates as distributed capacitance. Its field distribution was measured experimentally using the B1+ mapping technique and was found to be in close correspondence with the simulated results. The coil field distribution was found to be suitable for large field of view small‐animal imaging and the coil image quality was compared with a commercially available coil by whole‐body scanning of living mice. Signal‐to‐noise measurements in living mice showed higher values than those of a commercially available coil with large receptive fields, and rivalled the performance of small receptive field and high‐sensitivity coils. The coil was deemed to be suitable for some whole‐body, small‐animal preclinical applications.
Outcome of landmark‐guided percutaneously inserted tunneled central venous catheters in infants and children under 3 years with cancer
Authors: Martynov Illya , Raedecke Jochen , Klima‐Frysch Jessica , Kluwe Wolfram , Schoenberger Joachim
Published: June 2018

Background

There is a paucity of information on procedural and long‐term outcomes of tunneled central venous catheters (TCVC) in infants and children younger than 3 years undergoing anticancer therapy. This study aims to evaluate the success, safety, and complications leading to surgical revision or premature removal of TCVC in this particular patient group.

Methods

The clinical course of pediatric patients with percutaneous inserted TCVC, including Groshong (GC) and Hickman/Broviac (HB) catheters, has been analyzed retrospectively. The data analysis includes patient and device characteristics, adverse events during insertion, and dwell period complications.

Results

A consecutive series of 238 children undergoing implantation of 273 TCVC, including 148 (54.2%) GC and 125 (45.8%) HB catheters, with a total of 38,209 catheter days at risk (cdr) were reviewed. The patient cohort consisted of 65 (23.8%) infants, 77 (28.2%) children aged 1–2 years, and 131 (48.0%) aged 2–3 years. The overall rate of adverse events during catheter insertion was 12.8% (n = 35) with no differences between age groups or devices. The overall rate of long‐term complication was 28.2% (n = 77, catheter risk [CR] per 1,000 cdr = 1.75), with the highest prevalence in infants (P = 0.01). The most common complication was late dislocation (n = 24, 8.8%, CR = 0.47), followed by early dislocation (n = 20, 7.3%) and infection (n = 18, 7.4%, CR = 0.42).

Conclusion

Percutaneous landmark‐guided insertion of TCVC in neonates and small children with cancer is safe. Patterns of long‐term complications are different from those for older children and should be prevented through appropriate management.
Comparing osteonecrosis clinical phenotype, timing, and risk factors in children and young adults treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Mogensen Signe Sloth , Harila‐Saari Arja , Mäkitie Outi , Myrberg Ida Hed , Niinimäki Riitta , Vestli Anne , Hafsteinsdottir Solveig , Griškevicius Laimonas , Saks Kadri , Hallböök Helene , Retpen Jens , Helt Louise Rold , Toft Nina , Schmiegelow Kjeld , Frandsen Thomas Leth ,   Nordic Society of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology (NOPHO) group
Published: June 2018

Background

Treatment‐related osteonecrosis (ON) is a serious complication of treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

Procedure

This study included 1,489 patients with ALL, aged 1–45 years, treated according to the Nordic Society of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology ALL2008 protocol, using alternate‐week dexamethasone during delayed intensification, with prospective registration of symptomatic ON. We aimed at comparing risk factors, timing, and clinical characteristics of ON in children and young adults.

Results

ON was diagnosed in 67 patients, yielding a 5‐year cumulative incidence of 6.3%, but 28% in female adolescents. Median age at ALL diagnosis was 12.1 years and 14.9 years for females and males, respectively. At ON diagnosis, 59 patients had bone pain (91%) and 30 (46%) had multiple‐joint involvement. The median interval between ALL and ON diagnosis was significantly shorter in children aged 1.0–9.9 years (0.7 years [range: 0.2–2.1]) compared with adolescents (1.8 years [range: 0.3–3.7, P < 0.001]) and adults (2.1 years [range: 0.4–5.3, P = 0.001]). Female sex was a risk factor in adolescent patients (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.1, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.1–4.2) but not in children aged 1.1–9.9 years (HR = 2.4, 95% CI: 0.9–6.2, P = 0.08) or adults aged 19–45 years (HR = 1.1, 95% CI: 0.3–4.0). Age above 10 years at ALL diagnosis (odds ratio [OR] = 3.7, P = 0.026) and multiple joints affected at ON diagnosis (OR = 3.4, P = 0.027) were risk factors for developing severe ON.

Conclusion

We provide a detailed phenotype of patients with ALL with symptomatic ON, including description of risk factors and timing of ON across age groups. This awareness is essential in exploring measures to prevent development of ON.
Light exposure via a head‐mounted device suppresses melatonin and improves vigilant attention without affecting cortisol and comfort
Authors: Schmidt Christina , Xhrouet Marine , Hamacher Manon , Delloye Eric , LeGoff Caroline , Cavalier Etienne , Collette Fabienne , Vandewalle Gilles
Published: June 2018

We aimed at assessing whether a head‐mounted light therapy device, enriched in blue wavelengths, suppresses melatonin secretion and improves vigilant attention in the late evening hours. We also assessed whether using such light device is associated with discomfort and physiological stress. Seventeen healthy young participants (eight females) participated in a counterbalanced within‐subject design during which they were exposed for 2 hr before habitual sleep time to a blue‐enriched light (1500 lx) or to a lower intensity red‐light (150 lx) control condition, using a new‐generation light emitting diode (LED) head‐mounted device. Compared to the red light control condition, blue‐enriched light significantly reduced melatonin secretion and reaction times during a psychomotor vigilance task while no significant differences were detected in discomfort and cortisol levels. These results suggest that, compared to a control condition, blue‐enriched light, delivered by a new‐generation head‐mounted device, elicits typical non‐visual responses to light without detectable discomfort and physiological stress. They suggest that such devices might constitute an effective alternative to standard light boxes.
Relationship of demoralization with anxiety, depression, and quality of life: A Southern European study of Italian and Portuguese cancer patients
Authors: Nanni Maria Giulia , Caruso Rosangela , Travado Luzia , Ventura Cidalia , Palma Alessandra , Berardi Alejandra M. , Meggiolaro Elena , Ruffilli Federica , Martins Cristina , Kissane David , Grassi Luigi
Published: June 2018

Background

Demoralization syndrome is a significant condition that has not been greatly studied in Southern European countries.

Aims

To extend the knowledge of demoralization in Southern Europe by examining its prevalence according to different methods of assessment, its relationship with anxiety and depression, and its impact on quality of life (QoL) among cancer patients.

Methods

A convenience sample of 195 cancer outpatients from two oncology centers (102 from Lisbon, Portugal, and 93 from Ferrara, Italy) participated in an observational, cross‐sectional study using the Diagnostic Criteria of Psychosomatic Research‐Demoralization interview (DCPR/D) and psychometric tools (Demoralization scale‐DS; Patient Health Questionnaire–9/PHQ‐9; Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale‐HADS; and European Quality of Life‐5‐EQ‐5D).

Results

A 25.1% prevalence (CI 95%, 0.19‐0.31) of clinically relevant demoralization was reported on the DCPR/D interview. A total demoralization score cutoff score ≥ 25 maximized sensitivity (81.6%), and specificity (72.6%) in identifying DCPR/D demoralized patients. The DCPR/D and DS were associated with poorer levels of QoL. About half of the patients who were demoralized were not clinically depressed (PHQ‐9). Self‐reported suicidal ideation (PHQ‐9 item 9) was found in a minority of patients (8.2%), most of whom (77%) were cases of depression (PHQ‐9), but one‐quarter (23%) were not depressed, yet moderately/severely demoralized (DCPR/D and DS).

Conclusions

This Southern European study confirms the importance of demoralization in cancer patients as a different condition with respect to depression and its relationship with poor QoL and suicidal ideation.