bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Level of evidence, sponsorship, conflict of interest policy and commercial impact of PubMed‐listed clinical urolithiasis‐related trials in 2014
Authors: Schoenthaler Martin , Miernik Arkadiusz , Wilhelm Konrad , Schlager Daniel , Schoeb Dominik Stefan , Adams Fabian , Dahm Philipp , Hein Simon
Published: November 2015

Objectives

To evaluate published trials on urolithiasis regarding level of evidence, type of sponsorship and declared conflicts of interest (COIs), and to elucidate a potential commercial impact.

Materials and Methods

We performed a systematic PubMed® literature search using a predefined Boolean search term to identify PubMed‐listed clinical research studies on urolithiasis in 2014 (fourth quarter). All authors screened the results for eligibility criteria and two independent reviewers evaluated and performed data extraction of predefined endpoints, including level of evidence, declaration of COI and sponsorship/funding (as indicated in the published print version), and commercial impact.

Results

A total of 110 clinical trials in urolithiasis listed in PubMed met the inclusion criteria. Levels of evidence 1, 2, 3 and 4 were found in 15%, 14%, 21% and 51% of trials, respectively. A COI was indicated in a total of 90% of publications, 93% of which declared no existing conflict of interest. Sponsorship was indicated in 36% of publications, 55% of which stated public funding, 33% institutional funding, 10% industrial funding and 2% both public and industrial funding. A total of 11% of the published trials were rated as having a high commercial impact.

Conclusion

The present study provides evidence of increasing levels of evidence for published clinical trials on urolithiasis in 2014 (as compared with earlier data). Ninety percent of publications indicated conflicts of interest, whereas sponsoring of studies was declared only by one‐third. A considerable number of trials involved issues of high commercial impact. Recently established legal programmes and voluntary acts on self‐reporting of financial relationships will enhance transparency in the future; however, increased public funding will be needed to further promote the quality of trials on urolithiasis.
Secular trends in parent‐reported television viewing among children in the United States, 2001–2012
Authors: Loprinzi P. D. , Davis R. E.
Published: November 2015

Objective

Examine trends in parent‐reported television (TV) viewing among preschoolers (2–5 years) and children (6–11 years) between 2001 and 2012.

Methods

Data from the 2001–2012 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were used. The analytic sample included 5724 preschoolers and 7104 children. Parent proxy of TV viewing at each of the six 2‐year cycles was assessed.

Results

Statistically significant decreases in mean TV viewing between 2001 and 2012 were observed for preschoolers of nearly all gender, race‐ethnicity and poverty combinations (exception of Mexican American boys), with the largest decrease occurring among non‐Hispanic white boys (29% decrease; 2.24 h/day in 2001–2002 to 1.59 h/day in 2011–2012; P = .01). There was evidence of progressive decrease in mean TV viewing among children, but not to the extent that occurred among the preschool population. Across the six respective cycles for the entire preschool sample, the proportion watching <2 h/day of TV was: 34.9, 34.2, 43.9, 43.4, 39.1 and 49.2 (Ptrend < .001). For children, the respective proportions were: 32.9, 25.2, 38.2, 36.5, 38.1 and 36.6 (Ptrend = .01).

Conclusions

Statistically significant decreases in mean TV viewing between 2001 and 2012 were observed for preschoolers and children. However, a relatively large proportion of parents report their children watching 2 or more hours/day of TV.
Differential modulation of claudin 4 expression and myosin light chain phosphorylation by thyroid function in lung injury
Authors: Varedi Masoumeh , Pajouhi Naser , Owji Mohammad , Naghibalhossaini Fakhraddin , Omrani Gholam H. R.
Published: November 2015

Background

Trauma and ventilator‐induced lung injury is often associated with endothelial–epithelial barriers breakdown, which may lead to multiple system organ failure (MSOF) and death in critically ill patients. Although molecular mechanism involved in MSOF is not known, junctional opening is believed to happen. In vitro, thyroid hormones inhibit myosin light chain (MLC) phosphorylation and may, thus, inhibit cellular contraction and junctional opening. Trauma is also associated with tissue hypo‐thyroid state. Therefore, we examined the effects of thyroid function on expression of phospho‐MLC (pp‐MLC) and claudin 4 (Clud4), key proteins involved in regulation of junctional tightness, in lung injury.

Methods

Rats were rendered hypo‐thyroid (Hypo) or hyperthyroid (Hyper) by adding methimazole or levo‐thyroxine, respectively, to their drinking water. Untreated euthyroid (Eue) animals were used as control. Lung pp‐MLC and Clud4 proteins were assessed by western blotting and in situ immunodetection, respectively. Lung injury was induced by high tidal volume mechanical ventilation.

Results

Lung injury was significantly enhanced in Hypo animals and attenuated in Hyper animals. Parallel changes in expression of lung pp‐MLC were detected. Alterations in lung histomorphology correlated with the level of pp‐MLC. Expression of alveolar and bronchiolar Clud4 protein was differentially affected by the state of thyroid gland.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that thyroid function plays significant role in lung injury perhaps by modulating expression of the proteins involved in junctional tightness. Besides, they strongly support the idea that the tissue hypo‐thyroid state may contribute to endothelial–epithelial barriers breakdown associated with trauma.
Burke–Fahn–Marsden dystonia severity, Gross Motor, Manual Ability, and Communication Function Classification scales in childhood hyperkinetic movement disorders including cerebral palsy: a ‘Rosetta Stone’ study
Authors: Elze Markus C , Gimeno Hortensia , Tustin Kylee , Baker Lesley , Lumsden Daniel E , Hutton Jane L , Lin Jean‐Pierre S‐M
Published: November 2015

Aim

Hyperkinetic movement disorders (HMDs) can be assessed using impairment‐based scales or functional classifications. The Burke–Fahn–Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale‐movement (BFM‐M) evaluates dystonia impairment, but may not reflect functional ability. The Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS), Manual Ability Classification System (MACS), and Communication Function Classification System (CFCS) are widely used in the literature on cerebral palsy to classify functional ability, but not in childhood movement disorders. We explore the concordance of these three functional scales in a large sample of paediatric HMDs and the impact of dystonia severity on these scales.

Method

Children with HMDs (n=161; median age 10y 3mo, range 2y 6mo–21y) were assessed using the BFM‐M, GMFCS, MACS, and CFCS from 2007 to 2013. This cross‐sectional study contrasts the information provided by these scales.

Results

All four scales were strongly associated (all Spearman's rank correlation coefficient rs>0.72, p<0.001), with worse dystonia severity implying worse function. Secondary dystonias had worse dystonia and less function than primary dystonias (p<0.001). A longer proportion of life lived with dystonia is associated with more severe dystonia (rs=0.42, p<0.001).

Interpretation

The BFM‐M is strongly linked with the GMFCS, MACS, and CFCS, irrespective of aetiology. Each scale offers interrelated but complementary information and is applicable to all aetiologies. Movement disorders including cerebral palsy can be effectively evaluated using these scales.
A network approach for inferring species associations from co‐occurrence data
Authors: Morueta‐Holme Naia , Blonder Benjamin , Sandel Brody , McGill Brian J. , Peet Robert K. , Ott Jeffrey E. , Violle Cyrille , Enquist Brian J. , Jørgensen Peter M. , Svenning Jens‐Christian
Published: November 2015

Positive and negative associations between species are a key outcome of community assembly from regional species pools. These associations are difficult to detect and can be caused by a range of processes such as species interactions, local environmental constraints and dispersal. We integrate new ideas around species distribution modeling, covariance matrix estimation, and network analysis to provide an approach to inferring non‐random species associations from local‐ and regional‐scale occurrence data. Specifically, we provide a novel framework for identifying species associations that overcomes three challenges: 1) correcting for indirect effects from other species, 2) avoiding spurious associations driven by regional‐scale distributions, and 3) describing these associations in a multi‐species context. We highlight a range of research questions and analyses that this framework is able to address. We show that the approach is statistically robust using simulated data. In addition, we present an empirical analysis of > 1000 North American tree communities that gives evidence for weak positive associations among small groups of species. Finally, we discuss several possible extensions for identifying drivers of associations, predicting community assembly, and better linking biogeography and community ecology.
McLean OnTrack: a transdiagnostic program for early intervention in first‐episode psychosis
Authors: Shinn Ann K. , Bolton Kirsten W. , Karmacharya Rakesh , Lewandowski Kathryn E. , Yuksel Cagri , Baker Justin T. , Chouinard Virginie‐Anne , Pingali Samira M. , Bye Hilary , Cederbaum Katherine , Öngür Dost
Published: November 2015

Aims

Most programs specializing in the treatment of first‐episode psychosis in the United States focus on schizophrenia. However, many early psychosis patients do not fit into this diagnostic category. Here we describe McLean OnTrack, an intensive outpatient treatment program that accepts all comers with first‐episode psychosis.

Methods

We assessed baseline characteristics of patients in the 2.5 years since program initiation. We examined how initial referral diagnoses compare with current diagnoses, calculating the proportion of diagnostic changes.

Results

At 2.5 years, patients in McLean OnTrack consist of 30 (33.0%) individuals with primary psychotic disorder, 40 (44.0%) with affective psychosis, 19 (20.9%) with psychotic disorder not otherwise specified (NOS) who do not meet full criteria for either category and two (2.2%) individuals with no psychosis. Although patients with affective psychosis had higher pre‐morbid functioning, all three categories of psychosis had similar rates of prior hospitalizations and substance use. The retention rate in the psychotic disorder NOS group was lower than that in affective and primary psychotic disorders. Finally, diagnoses changed over the course of treatment in 50.5% of patients.

Conclusions

Diagnostic heterogeneity appears to be the norm among patients with first‐episode psychosis, and diagnoses commonly evolve over the illness course. Baseline indices of illness severity were similar across categories and suggest the need for early intervention, irrespective of specific diagnosis. We discuss the benefits and challenges of a transdiagnostic approach to early intervention in first‐episode psychosis, treating patients who share many but not all characteristics.
Central olfactory processing in patients with disorders of consciousness
Authors: Nigri A. , Ferraro S. , Bruzzone M. G. , Nava S. , D'Incerti L. , Bertolino N. , Sattin D. , Leonardi M. , Lundström J. N. ,   CRC – Coma Research Centre members
Published: November 2015

Background and purpose

Previous studies have demonstrated that individuals suffering from disorder of consciousness (DOC) maintain some minor neural processing of percepts mediated by senses that early in their pathway intersect the thalamus, a key dysfunctional area in DOC patients. Here the degree of sensory preservation within the olfactory system, a system that lacks an obligatory thalamic relay, and its relationship to the consciousness level in DOC patients of various etiologies was assessed.

Methods

Clinical Coma Recovery Scale – Revised (CRS‐R) as well as cerebral responses to odors by means of functional magnetic resonance were obtained in a group of vegetative state/unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (n = 26) patients, minimally conscious state (n = 7) patients and healthy controls (n = 25).

Results

A majority of vegetative state/unresponsive wakefulness syndrome patients (58%) and 100% of minimally conscious state patients demonstrated a significant preservation of olfactory neural processing, manifested by activation within the piriform cortex, an area considered as a primary olfactory region. Degree of preservation of olfactory processing differed linearly in line with the patients’ etiologies where groups demonstrating greater conscious awareness demonstrated more significant processing. Viewed over all DOC patients, there was a significant negative association between odor‐related activity in the orbitofrontal cortex and CRS‐R scores.

Conclusions

It is demonstrated that DOC patients exhibit a significant preservation of olfactory neural processing with a clear relationship to etiopathologies and clinical measures even years after of chronification of DOC.
An economic evaluation of the ketogenic diet versus care as usual in children and adolescents with intractable epilepsy: An interim analysis
Authors: de Kinderen Reina J. A. , Lambrechts Danielle A. J. E. , Wijnen Ben F. M. , Postulart Debby , Aldenkamp Albert P. , Majoie Marian H. J. M. , Evers Silvia M. A. A.
Published: November 2015

Objectives

To gain insight into the cost‐effectiveness of the ketogenic (KD) diet compared with care as usual (CAU) in children and adolescents with intractable epilepsy, we conducted an economic evaluation from a societal perspective, alongside a randomized controlled trial.

Methods

Participants from a tertiary epilepsy center were randomized into KD (intervention) group or CAU (control) group. Seizure frequency, quality adjusted life years (QALYs), health care costs, production losses of parents and patient, and family costs were assessed at baseline and during a 4‐month study period and compared between the intervention and control groups. The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios (ICERs) (i.e., cost per QALY and cost per responder), and cost‐effectiveness acceptability curves (CEACs) were calculated and presented.

Results

In total, 48 children were included in the analyses of this study (26 KD group). At 4 months, 50% of the participants in the KD group had a seizure reduction ≥50% from baseline, compared with 18.2 of the participants in the CAU group. The mean costs per patient in the CAU group were €15,245 compared to €20,986 per patient in the KD group, resulting in an ICER of €18,044 per responder. We failed, however, to measure any benefits in terms of QALYs and therefore, the cost per QALY rise high above any acceptable ceiling ratio. It might be that the quality of life instruments used in this study were not sufficiently sensitive to detect changes, or it might be that being a clinical responder is not sufficient to improve a patient's quality of life. Univariate and multivariate sensitivity analyses and nonparametric bootstrapping were performed and demonstrated the robustness of our results.

Significance

The results show that the KD reduces seizure frequency. The study did not find any improvements in quality of life and, therefore, unfavorable cost per QALY ratio's resulted.
Melting barriers to faunal exchange across ocean basins
Authors: McKeon C. Seabird , Weber Michele X. , Alter S. Elizabeth , Seavy Nathaniel E. , Crandall Eric D. , Barshis Daniel J. , Fechter‐Leggett Ethan D. , Oleson Kirsten L. L.
Published: November 2015

Accelerated loss of sea ice in the Arctic is opening routes connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans for longer periods each year. These changes may increase the ease and frequency with which marine birds and mammals move between the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean basins. Indeed, recent observations of birds and mammals suggest these movements have intensified in recent decades. Reconnection of the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean basins will present both challenges to marine ecosystem conservation and an unprecedented opportunity to examine the ecological and evolutionary consequences of interoceanic faunal exchange in real time. To understand these changes and implement effective conservation of marine ecosystems, we need to further develop modeling efforts to predict the rate of dispersal and consequences of faunal exchange. These predictions can be tested by closely monitoring wildlife dispersal through the Arctic Ocean and using modern methods to explore the ecological and evolutionary consequences of these movements.
Dedicated biomass crops can enhance biodiversity in the arable landscape
Authors: Haughton Alison J. , Bohan David A. , Clark Suzanne J. , Mallott Mark D. , Mallott Victoria , Sage Rufus , Karp Angela
Published: November 2015

Suggestions that novel, non‐food, dedicated biomass crops used to produce bioenergy may provide opportunities to diversify and reinstate biodiversity in intensively managed farmland have not yet been fully tested at the landscape scale. Using two of the largest, currently available landscape‐scale biodiversity data sets from arable and biomass bioenergy crops, we take a taxonomic and functional trait approach to quantify and contrast the consequences for biodiversity indicators of adopting dedicated biomass crops on land previously cultivated under annual, rotational arable cropping. The abundance and community compositions of biodiversity indicators in fields of break and cereal crops changed when planted with the dedicated biomass crops, miscanthus and short rotation coppiced (SRC) willow. Weed biomass was consistently greater in the two dedicated biomass crops than in cereals, and invertebrate abundance was similarly consistently higher than in break crops. Using canonical variates analysis, we identified distinct plant and invertebrate taxa and trait‐based communities in miscanthus and SRC willows, whereas break and cereal crops tended to form a single, composite community. Seedbanks were shown to reflect the longer term effects of crop management. Our study suggests that miscanthus and SRC willows, and the management associated with perennial cropping, would support significant amounts of biodiversity when compared with annual arable crops. We recommend the strategic planting of these perennial, dedicated biomass crops in arable farmland to increase landscape heterogeneity and enhance ecosystem function, and simultaneously work towards striking a balance between energy and food security.
The Sphenopalatine Ganglion: Anatomy, Pathophysiology, and Therapeutic Targeting in Headache
Authors: Robbins Matthew S. , Robertson Carrie E. , Kaplan Eugene , Ailani Jessica , Charleston Larry , Kuruvilla Deena , Blumenfeld Andrew , Berliner Randall , Rosen Noah L. , Duarte Robert , Vidwan Jaskiran , Halker Rashmi B. , Gill Nicole , Ashkenazi Avi
Published: November 2015

The sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) has attracted the interest of practitioners treating head and face pain for over a century because of its anatomical connections and role in the trigemino‐autonomic reflex. In this review, we discuss the anatomy of the SPG, as well as what is known about its role in the pathophysiology of headache disorders, including cluster headache and migraine. We then address various therapies that target the SPG, including intranasal medication delivery, new SPG blocking catheter devices, neurostimulation, chemical neurolysis, and ablation procedures.
HLA‐DRB1 gene polymorphisms and its associations with rheumatoid arthritis in Chinese Han women of Shaanxi province, northwest of China
Authors: Wang J. , Zhang H. , Wang G.‐Q. , Quan Y.
Published: November 2015

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common chronic autoimmune disease characterized by symmetric polyarthritis. This study was designed to investigate the associations between HLA‐DRB1 gene polymorphisms and RA in the Chinese Han population of Shaanxi province, northwest of China. In total, we identified 31 high‐resolution HLA‐DRB1 alleles in 109 patients with RA. Compared with the controls, the AF of HLA‐DRB1*04:05 (P = 0.000, Pc = 0.007, OR = 3.462, 95%CI: 1.749–6.852) was significantly higher in patients with RA. In addition, the patients with RA had higher allele frequency (AF) of the HLA‐DRB1*04:03 (P = 0.030, Pc = NS, OR = 4.737, 95%CI: 1.012–22.180); DRB1*04:06 (P = 0.018, Pc = NS, OR = 5.288, 95%CI: 1.145–24.422) and the shared epitope (SE) alleles (P = 0.004, Pc = NS, OR = 2.166, 95%CI: 1.279–3.667), respectively. Moreover, positive possibilities of RF and anti‐CCP were significant higher in SE‐positive patients compared to SR‐negative patients (OR = 4.787, 95%CI: 1.101–20.824; OR = 3.775, 95%CI: 1.106–12.876, respectively). Our results indicated that HLA‐DRB1*04:05, *04:03, *04:06 and SE alleles might be susceptibility allele for RA in Chinese Han population of Shaanxi province, northwest of China.
Teaching (Dissident) Theory in Crisis European Union
Authors: Parker Owen
Published: November 2015

Teaching theory in the study of EU politics has long posed a range of pedagogical challenges, in part because of the broad range of questions that scholars have posed in relation to the EU as object of study. Often such a challenge is overcome by focusing mainly on how integration occurred/occurs and the associated classical theories of integration. However, this article argues that we do our students a disservice by ignoring an extant theoretical plurality, and perhaps never more so than in the context of the current crisis and its multiple effects. In particular, the crisis heightens the imperative for engagement with questions posed by what this special issue calls 'dissident’ theoretical approaches. Drawing on the experience of co‐authoring a textbook on EU politics, the article considers some of the ways in which we might practically include such approaches, while remaining cognizant of pedagogical constraints.
Charting Frontotemporal Dementia: From Genes to Networks
Authors: Filippi Massimo , Agosta Federica , Ferraro Pilar M.
Published: November 2015

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a genetically and clinically heterogeneous syndrome that is characterized by overlapping clinical symptoms involving behavior, personality, language and/or motor functions and degeneration of the frontal and temporal lobes. The term frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) is used to describe the proteinopathies associated with clinical FTD. Emerging evidence from network‐based neuroimaging studies, such as resting state functional MRI and diffusion tensor MRI studies, have implicated specific large‐scale brain networks in the pathogenesis of FTD syndromes, suggesting a new paradigm for explaining the distributed and heterogeneous spreading patterns of pathological proteins in FTLD. In this review, we overview recent research on the study of FTD syndromes as connectivity disorders in symptomatic patients as well as genotype‐specific changes in asymptomatic FTD‐related gene mutation carriers. Characterizing brain network breakdown in these subjects using neuroimaging may help anticipate the diagnosis and perhaps prevent the devastating impact of FTD.
Part‐Digitizing System of Impression and Interocclusal Record for Complete Denture Fabrication
Authors: Matsuda Takashi , Goto Takaharu , Yagi Kazutomo , Kashiwabara Toshiya , Ichikawa Tetsuo
Published: November 2015

Few studies have reported the application of digital technology to removable dentures, particularly for the process of impression and interocclusal recording for complete denture fabrication. This article describes a part‐digitizing system of impression and interocclusal records for complete denture fabrication. The denture foundation area in an edentulous mouth, including the border areas and residual ridge, is outlined by tracing the surfaces with a 3‐D pen‐type digitizer. Specialized trays for final impressions and interocclusal records were generated using computer‐aided design and manufactured using the digital data. Final impression and interocclusal records were carried out using these specialized trays. The computer‐aided method using preliminary digital impressions and specialized trays would be feasible for clinical use for complete denture fabrication.
Impact of Surgical Template on the Accuracy of Implant Placement
Authors: Xu Liang‐wei , You Jia , Zhang Jian‐xing , Liu Yun‐feng , Peng Wei
Published: November 2015

Purpose

To achieve functional and esthetic results, implants must be placed accurately; however, little information is available regarding the effect of surgical templates on the accuracy of implant placement. Thus, the aim of this study was to measure the deviation between actual and planned implant positions, and determine the deviation caused by the surgical template.

Materials and Methods

Jaws from 16 patients were scanned using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). For our study, 53 implants were planned in a virtual 3D environment, of which 35 were inserted in the mandible and 18 in the maxilla. A stereolithographic (SLA) surgical template was created. A CBCT scan of the surgical template fitted on a plaster model was performed, and the images obtained were matched to virtual implant plan images that contained the planned implant position. The actual implant position was acquired from the registration position of the surgical template. Deviation between actual and planned implant positions was analyzed.

Results

Mean central deviation at the hex and apex was 0.456 mm and 0.515 mm, respectively. Mean value of horizontal deviation at the hex was 0.193 mm, horizontal deviation at the apex was 0.277 mm, vertical deviation at the hex was 0.388 mm, vertical deviation at the apex was 0.390 mm, and angular deviation was 0.621°.

Conclusion

Our study results revealed a significant deviation between actual and planned implant positions caused by the surgical template.
In Vitro Effects of Plantago Major Extract, Aucubin, and Baicalein on Candida albicans Biofilm Formation, Metabolic Activity, and Cell Surface Hydrophobicity
Authors: Shirley Karina Pezo , Windsor L. Jack , Eckert George J. , Gregory Richard L.
Published: November 2015

Purpose

To determine the in vitro effectiveness of Plantago major extract, along with two of its active components, aucubin and baicalein, on the inhibition of Candida albicans growth, biofilm formation, metabolic activity, and cell surface hydrophobicity.

Materials and Methods

Twofold dilutions of P. major, aucubin, and baicalein were used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC), and the minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration (MBIC) of each solution. Separately, twofold dilutions of P. major, aucubin, and baicalein were used to determine the metabolic activity of established C. albicans biofilm using a 2,3‐bis (2‐ methoxy‐4‐nitro‐5‐sulfophenyl)‐2H‐tetrazolium‐carboxanilide reduction assay. Twofold dilutions of P. major, aucubin, and baicalein were used to determine the cell surface hydrophobicity of treated C. albicans biofilm by a two‐phase assay using hexadecane. The hydrophobicity percentage of the cell surface was then calculated. A mixed‐model ANOVA test was used for intergroup comparisons.

Results

The MICs of P. major extract (diluted 1:2 to 1:8), aucubin (61 to 244 μg/ml), and baicalein (0.0063 to 100 μg/ml) on the total growth of C. albicans were noticeable at their highest concentrations, and the inhibition was dose dependent. The MFC was evaluated after 48 hours of incubation, and aucubin (244 μg/ml) exhibited a strong fungicidal activity at its highest concentration against C. albicans growth. The MBIC indicated no growth or reduced growth of C. albicans biofilm at the highest concentrations of aucubin (61 to 244 μg/ml) and baicalein (25 to 100 μg/ml). Similarly, the effects of these reagents on C. albicans biofilm metabolic activity and hydrophobicity demonstrated high effectiveness at their highest concentrations.

Conclusion

P. major extract, aucubin, and baicalein caused a dose‐dependent reduction on the total growth, biofilm formation, metabolic activity, and cell surface hydrophobicity of C. albicans. This demonstrates their effectiveness as antifungals and suggests their promising potential use as solutions for C. albicans biofilm‐related infections.
Pathophysiological and Therapeutic Considerations for Non‐Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction in Children
Authors: KAKIZAKI Hidehiro , KITA Masafumi , WATANABE Masaki , WADA Naoki
Published: November 2015

Non‐neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) in children is very common in clinical practice and is important as an underlying cause of lower urinary tract symptoms, urinary tract infection and vesicoureteral reflux in affected children. LUTD in children is caused by multiple factors and might be related with a delay in functional maturation of the lower urinary tract. Behavioral and psychological problems often co‐exist in children with LUTD and bowel dysfunction. Recent findings in functional brain imaging suggest that bladder bowel dysfunction and behavioral and psychiatric disorders in children might share common pathophysiological factors in the brain. Children with suspected LUTD should be evaluated properly by detailed history taking, validated questionnaire on voiding and defecation, voiding and bowel diary, urinalysis, screening ultrasound, uroflowmetry and post‐void residual measurement. Invasive urodynamic study such as videourodynamics should be reserved for children in whom standard treatment fails. Initial treatment of non‐neurogenic LUTD is standard urotherapy comprising education of the child and family, regular optimal voiding regimens and bowel programs. Pelvic floor muscle awareness, biofeedback and neuromodulation can be used as a supplementary purpose. Antimuscarinics and α‐blockers are safely used for overactive bladder and dysfunctional voiding, respectively. For refractory cases, botulinum toxin A injection is a viable treatment option. Prudent use of urotherapy and pharmacotherapy for non‐neurogenic LUTD should have a better chance to cure various problems and improve self‐esteem and quality of life in affected children.
Outcomes of hepatitis B surface antigenaemia in patients with incident end‐stage renal disease
Authors: Kim Ae Jin , Lee Jin Hwan , Ko Kwang‐Pil , Jung Eul Sik , Choi Byoung Ho , Ro Han , Jung Ji Yong , Lee Hyun Hee , Chung Wookyung , Chang Jae Hyun
Published: November 2015

Aim

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is an important risk factor for morbidity and mortality in the general population. However, limited data are available on the progression of HBV infection in patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD), and available data are controversial. Therefore, we investigated the association between hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) seropositivity and mortality in patients with incident ESRD.

Methods

All adult patients (≥18 years of age) starting dialysis for ESRD from January 2000 to December 2011 were included. A total of 1090 patients with ESRD were analyzed. HBsAg‐positive patients were paired 1:6 with HBsAg‐negative patients using propensity score matching.

Results

Eighty one (7.4%) patients were HBsAg positive. No differences in the survival rates of the HBsAg‐positive and HBsAg‐negative patients with ESRD were detected in either the entire cohort or the propensity score matched cohort. No differences in survival were detected between the groups of HBsAg‐positive patients based on the hepatitis B envelope antigen, hepatitis B envelope antibody, HBV DNA status, or use of antiviral agents. No difference in mortality was found between the haemodialysis (HD) and peritoneal dialysis (PD) subgroups among HBsAg‐positive patients.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that hepatitis B surface antigenaemia is not related to increased mortality in patients with incident ESRD. Survival of HBsAg‐positive patients undergoing PD was comparable to that of patients undergoing HD.
Selection during crop diversification involves correlated evolution of the circadian clock and ecophysiological traits in Brassica rapa
Authors: Yarkhunova Yulia , Edwards Christine E. , Ewers Brent E. , Baker Robert L. , Aston Timothy Llewellyn , McClung C. Robertson , Lou Ping , Weinig Cynthia
Published: November 2015

Crop selection often leads to dramatic morphological diversification, in which allocation to the harvestable component increases. Shifts in allocation are predicted to impact (as well as rely on) physiological traits; yet, little is known about the evolution of gas exchange and related anatomical features during crop diversification.

In Brassica rapa, we tested for physiological differentiation among three crop morphotypes (leaf, turnip, and oilseed) and for correlated evolution of circadian, gas exchange, and phenological traits. We also examined internal and surficial leaf anatomical features and biochemical limits to photosynthesis.

Crop types differed in gas exchange; oilseed varieties had higher net carbon assimilation and stomatal conductance relative to vegetable types. Phylogenetically independent contrasts indicated correlated evolution between circadian traits and both gas exchange and biomass accumulation; shifts to shorter circadian period (closer to 24 h) between phylogenetic nodes are associated with higher stomatal conductance, lower photosynthetic rate (when CO2 supply is factored out), and lower biomass accumulation. Crop type differences in gas exchange are also associated with stomatal density, epidermal thickness, numbers of palisade layers, and biochemical limits to photosynthesis.

Brassica crop diversification involves correlated evolution of circadian and physiological traits, which is potentially relevant to understanding mechanistic targets for crop improvement.
Periprosthetic Distal Femur Fracture after Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ebraheim Nabil A , Kelley Leanne H , Liu Xiaochen , Thomas Ian S , Steiner Robert B , Liu Jiayong
Published: November 2015

This study was designed to itemize and analyze the classification of fracture types and their corresponding outcomes in an attempt to provide a better understanding of the current treatment methods. Two PubMed searches were performed using the words “periprosthetic distal femur fracture” and “periprosthetic supracondylar femur fracture” in studies that were published in the previous 10 years (2004–2014). Data from 41 articlesthat met the general inclusion criteria, were collected and categorized into fracture type and treatment method groupings. Healing outcome and complications were the two parameters used to analyze the data. Treatment techniques were grouped in the following categories: locking plate, non‐locking plate, intramedullary nail/rod, screw, blade plate, cerclage wires, allograft, external fixation, revision arthroplasty, non‐operative, and other. Classification systems by Lewis and Rorabeck, the Association for Osteosynthesis/Orthopedic Trauma Association (AO/OTA), Su et al., Neer et al., Kim et al., Backstein et al., and the Société Française de Chirurgie Orthopédique et Traumatologique were reported. In total 448 fractures were identified, of which Rorabeck type II was the most common fracture studied. The two most successful treatment options for periprosthetic distal femur fractures were locking plate (87%) and intramedullary nail/rod (84%). The most frequent complications associated with periprosthetic distal femur fractures included non/mal/delayed union and the need for revision. Locking plates used to treat Rorabeck type II fractures had a complication rate of 35% and those treated with intramedullary nailing had a higher complication rate of 53%. In conclusion, the most frequent type of periprosthetic distal femur fracture after total knee arthroplasty was Rorabeck type II. The most common treatments for these types of fractures are locked plating and intramedullary nailing, with similar healing rates of 87% and 84%, respectively. However, the complication rate for locked plating was lower than for intramedullary nailing.
Oblique Lumbar Interbody Fusion for Revision of Non‐union Following Prior Posterior Surgery: A Case Report
Authors: Phan Kevin , Mobbs Ralph J
Published: November 2015

We report the case of a 75‐year‐old lady who presented with a L2‐3 non‐union 18 months following a L2‐3 and L3‐4 posterior decompression and transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion. Halo of the L2 pedicle screws on imaging was consistent with a non‐union at the L2‐3 level. An anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) approach was originally considered. However, due to the high lumbar approach and patient habitus [body mass index (BMI) > 35], a decision was made to approach the L2‐3 level using an oblique technique. This involved dissection anterior to the psoas muscle to access the L2‐3 disc space. The psoas, kidney and retroperitoneum were retracted using a Synframe for the oblique trajectory. Removal of the prior trans‐foraminal lumbar interbody fusion cage was performed via the oblique approach and insertion of a revised implant. The operation was completed successfully with no perioperative complications noted. Length of stay was 3 days, with the patient achieving rapid pain relief. In the present report, we report the first case using an oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) approach for revision of a prior posterior fusion non‐union at the L2,3 level. The OLIF technique is feasible for revision of a non‐union of upper lumbar levels, with satisfactory fusion achieved with acceptable feasibility.
Biomechanical Evaluation of Cross Trajectory Technique for Pedicle Screw Insertion: Combined Use of Traditional Trajectory and Cortical Bone Trajectory
Authors: Matsukawa Keitaro , Yato Yoshiyuki , Imabayashi Hideaki , Hosogane Naobumi , Asazuma Takashi , Nemoto Koichi
Published: November 2015

Objective

To introduce a novel double‐screw (cross trajectory) technique that combines use of the traditional trajectory (TT) and cortical bone trajectory (CBT) and to investigate its fixation strength quantitatively by finite element (FE) analysis.

Methods

Three‐dimensional FE models of 30 osteoporotic L4 vertebrae (patients' mean age: 77.3 ± 7.4 years, 11 men and 19 women) were computationally created. Each vertebral model was implanted with bilateral pedicle screws by TT (using 7.5 mm × 40 mm screws), CBT (using 5.5 mm × 35 mm screws) and cross trajectory (combined use of TT screws of 5.5 mm × 40 mm and CBT screws of 5.5 mm × 35 mm) and compared among three groups. The vertebral fixation strength of a bilateral‐screw construct was examined by applying forces simulating flexion, extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation to the vertebrae by non‐linear FE analyses.

Results

Fixation strength using the cross trajectory was the highest among the three different techniques (P < 0.01). The cross trajectory construct demonstrated 320% higher strength than the TT construct in flexion, 293% higher in extension, 102% higher in lateral bending, and 40% higher in axial rotation (P < 0.01). Similarly, the cross trajectory construct showed 268% higher strength than the CBT construct in flexion, 269% higher in extension, 210% higher in lateral bending, and 178% in axial rotation (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

The cross trajectory technique offered superior fixation strength over the TT and CBT techniques in each plane of motion. This technique may be a valid option for posterior fusion, especially in osteoporotic spine.
Acute Limb Shortening for Major Near and Complete Upper Extremity Amputations with Associated Neurovascular Injury: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Kusnezov Nicholas , Dunn John C , Stewart Jeremy , Mitchell Justin S , Pirela‐Cruz Miguel
Published: November 2015

In the setting of near or complete upper extremity amputations with significant soft tissue loss and neurovascular compromise, upper extremity surgeons are faced with the challenge of limb salvage. There are a multitude of treatment options for managing skeletal and soft tissue injuries including provisional fixation, staged reconstruction, and an acute shortening osteotomy with primary rigid internal fixation. However, many complications are associated with these techniques. Complications of provisional fixation include pin tract infection and loosening, tethering of musculotendinous units, nonunion, and additional surgeries. Staged reconstruction includes a variety of techniques: distraction osteogenesis, bone transport, or vascularized and non‐vascularized structural autograft or allograft, but the risks often outweigh the benefits. Risks include nonunion, postoperative vascular complications necessitating reoperation, and the inability to return to the previous level of function at an average of 24 months. Acute shortening osteotomy with internal fixation offers the advantage of a single‐stage procedure that provides for decreasing the soft tissue loss, provides a rigid platform to protect the delicate neurovascular repair, and alleviates unwanted tension at the repair sites. This review discusses the literature on the surgical treatment of severe upper extremity trauma with associated neurovascular injury over the past 75 years, and aims to evaluate the indications, surgical techniques, clinical and functional outcomes, and complications associated with acute shortening osteotomy with rigid internal fixation. Although this technique is not without risks, it is well‐tolerated in the acute setting with a complication profile comparable to other techniques of fixation while remaining a single procedure.
Recent changes in the features of hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
Authors: Bakal Unal , Sarac Mehmet , Aydin Mustafa , Tartar Tugay , Kazez Ahmet
Published: November 2015

Background

Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (HPS) is a rare cause of non‐bilious vomiting in young infants; the condition requires surgical management. Diagnosis is based on clinical, laboratory, and radiological findings. In the present study, we evaluate recent changes in the features of HPS.

Method

We retrospectively reviewed the demographic, clinical, and laboratory data on 56 HPS patients who underwent pyloromyotomy between 1996 and 2015. Patients were divided into two groups according to date of operation (group 1, 1996–2006; group 2, 2007–2015).

Results

Group 1 consisted of 30 patients and group 2, 26. The age at diagnosis was longer in group 2 (43.3 ± 13.1 days) than group 1 (37.4 ± 17.7 days). All diagnoses were confirmed on ultrasonography. Pyloromyotomy was performed on all 56 patients (48 boys, 8 girls). Significant between‐group differences were evident in terms of age at onset of vomiting; rate of dehydration; development of palpable olive‐shaped abdominal mass; serum urea and creatinine; acid–base status; and air distribution pattern on abdominal radiography (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The frequency of olive‐shaped abdominal mass evident on physical examination decreased significantly over time, and was lower than published values. Early diagnosis triggers timely support and surgical intervention, and may thus prevent development of the classical clinical and laboratory findings of late‐stage HPS. The remarkable recent advances in ultrasonography and techniques allow HPS to be diagnosed earlier than formerly.
Do CEOs Matter to Firm Strategic Actions and Firm Performance? A Meta‐Analytic Investigation Based on Upper Echelons Theory
Authors: Wang Gang , Holmes R. Michael , Oh In‐Sue , Zhu Weichun
Published: November 2015

What roles do CEOs play in firm performance? To address this question, the management field has accumulated a substantial amount of research over the past 3 decades built on upper echelons theory (UET), which posits that CEO characteristics manifest in firm strategic actions and, in this way, future firm performance. Hence, there is a need to systematically amass and take stock of prior empirical findings for UET testing and development. We use meta‐analytic techniques to synthesize prior UET research on the relationships among commonly studied CEO characteristics, firm strategic actions, and future firm performance. Based on 308 studies, meta‐analytic results generally support UET's predictions with a few exceptions: CEO characteristics (i.e., tenure, formal education, prior career experience, and positive self‐concept) are significantly associated with firm strategic actions, which in turn are significantly related to future firm performance. Moreover, CEO characteristics (i.e., age, tenure, formal education, and prior career experience) are positively related to future firm performance. In addition, fine‐grained analyses have revealed interesting and important relationships between specific measures of CEO characteristics (e.g., CEO prior task experience) and firm outcomes (e.g., firm strategic actions that match with CEO prior task experience). Implications for theory, future research, and practice are discussed.
Optimizing the utilization of kidneys from small pediatric deceased donors under 15 kg by choosing pediatric recipients
Authors: Sui Mingxing , Zhao Wenyu , Chen Yu , Zhu Fanyuan , Zhu Youhua , Zeng Li , Zhang Lei
Published: November 2015

Currently, most kidneys from small pediatric deceased donors are transplanted into adult recipients (i.e.,PTA). However, due to the weight mismatch, there is a high discard rate and a high ratio ofEBKTs if adoptingPTA. Here, we sought both to optimize utilization of these challenging but scarce donor grafts by selecting pediatric recipients and to characterize the feasibility and efficacy of thisPTPallocation strategy. From February 2012 to October 2014, kidneys from 27 infant donors ≤15 kg were procured and distributed to 38 pediatric candidates in our center. The grafts were utilized forEBKTif the donor weighed 2.5–5 kg and forSKTif the donor weighed 5–15 kg, leading to 10EBKTs and 28SKTs. The overall utilization rate from small pediatric deceased donors was 94.12%. After a follow‐up of 3–26 months, the graft survival rate was 89.47%, with four graft losses due to vascular thrombosis. Kidneys from low‐body‐weight donors should be applied to pediatric recipients, and the kidneys from infant donors ≥5 kg can be used in single‐kidney‐transplant procedures at experienced centers to optimize utilization.
Mortality Patterns of Hydro‐Geomorphologic Disasters
Authors: Pereira S. , Zêzere J. L. , Quaresma I. , Santos P. P. , Santos M.
Published: November 2015

Social impacts caused by floods and landslides in Portugal in the period of 1865–2010 are gathered in the DISASTER database. This database contains 1,902 hydro‐geomorphologic cases that caused 1,248 fatalities (81% and 19% associated with floods and landslides, respectively). The use of the DISASTER database allowed for: (i) the analysis of the frequency and the temporal evolution of fatal floods and landslides; (ii) the analysis of the spatio‐temporal distribution of fatalities; (iii) the identification of the most deadly flood and landside types; (iv) the verification of gender tendencies in mortalities; and (v) the evaluation of individual and societal risk. The highest number of flood and landslide cases and related mortalities occurred in the period of 1935–1969. After this period, the number of flood and landslide mortalities decreased, although landslide fatalities remained higher than those registered in the period of 1865–1934. The occurrence of flood fatalities was widespread in the country, with an important cluster in the Lisbon region and in the Tagus valley, while fatalities caused by landslides mainly occurred in the north of the Tagus valley. Flash floods caused the majority of fatalities associated with floods, while falls and flows were responsible for the highest number of fatalities associated with landslides. Males were found to have the highest frequency of fatalities. In the case of floods, the majority of fatalities were found both outdoors and inside of buildings in rural areas while fatalities inside buildings were dominant in landslide cases, mostly in rural areas.