bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance in Nondairy Drinks of Probiotic L. casei Strains Usually Employed in Dairy Products
Authors: Céspedes Mario , Cárdenas Pamela , Staffolani Martín , Ciappini María C. , Vinderola Gabriel
Published: March 2013

The increase in vegetarianism as dietary habit and the increased allergy episodes against dairy proteins fuel the demand for probiotics in nondairy products. Lactose intolerance and the cholesterol content of dairy products can also be considered two additional reasons why some consumers are looking for probiotics in other foods. We aimed at determining cell viability in nondairy drinks and resistance to simulated gastric digestion of commercial probiotic lactobacilli commonly used in dairy products. Lactobacillus casei LC‐01 and L. casei BGP 93 were added to different commercial nondairy drinks and viability and resistance to simulated gastric digestion (pH 2.5, 90 min, 37 °C) were monitored along storage (5 and 20 °C). For both strains, at least one nondairy drink was found to offer cell counts around 7 log orders until the end of the storage period. Changes in resistance to simulated gastric digestion were observed as well. Commercial probiotic cultures of L. casei can be added to commercial fruit juices after a carefull selection of the product that warrants cell viability. The resistance to simulated gastric digestion is an easy‐to‐apply in vitro tool that may contribute to product characterization and may help in the choice of the food matrix when no changes in cell viability are observed along storage. Sensorial evaluation is mandatory before marketing since the product type and storage conditions might influence the sensorial properties of the product due to the possibility of growth and lactic acid production by probiotic bacteria.
Permanent Genetic Resources added to Molecular Ecology Resources Database 1 December 2012–31 January 2013
Authors:   Molecular Ecology Resources Primer Development Consortium, Arranz Silvia E. , Avarre Jean‐Christophe , Balasundaram Chellam , Bouza Carmen , Calcaterra Nora B. , Cezilly Frank , Chen Shi‐long , Cipriani Guido , Cruz V. P. , D'Esposito D. , Daniel Carla , Dejean Alain , Dharaneedharan Subramanian , Díaz Juan , Du Man , Durand Jean‐Dominique , Dziadek Jarosław , Foresti F. , Peng‐cheng Fu , Gao Qing‐bo , García Graciela , Gauffre‐Autelin Pauline , Giovino Antonio , Goswami Mukunda , Guarino Carmine , Guerra‐Varela Jorge , Gutiérrez Verónica , Harris D. J. , Heo Moon‐Soo , Khan Gulzar , Kim Mija , Lakra Wazir S. , Lauth Jérémie , Leclercq Pierre , Lee Jeonghwa , Lee Seung‐Ho , Lee Soohyung , Lee Theresa , Li Yin‐hu , Liu Hongbo , Liu Shufang , Malé Pierre‐Jean G. , Mandhan Rishi Pal , Martinez Paulino , Mayer Veronika E. , Mendel Jan , Mendes N. J. , F. Mendonça F. , Minias Alina , Minias Piotr , Oh Kyeong‐Suk , Oliveira C. , Orivel Jérôme , Orsini L. , Pardo Belén G. , Perera A. , Procaccini G. , Rato C. , Ríos Néstor , Scibetta Silvia , Sharma Bhagwati S. , Sierens Tim , Singh Akhilesh , Terer Taita , Triest Ludwig , Urbánková Soňa , Vera Manuel , Villanova Gabriela V. , Voglmayr Hermann , Vyskočilová Martina , Wang Hongying , Wang Jiu‐li , Wattier Rémi A. , Xing Rui , Yadav Kamalendra , Yin Guibo , Yuan Yanjiao , Yun Jong‐Chul , Zhang Fa‐qi , Zhang Jing‐hua , Zhuang Zhimeng
Published: March 2013

This article documents the addition of 268 microsatellite marker loci to the Molecular Ecology Resources Database. Loci were developed for the following species: Alburnoides bipunctatus, Chamaerops humilis, Chlidonias hybrida, Cyperus papyrus, Fusarium graminearum, Loxigilla barbadensis, Macrobrachium rosenbergii, Odontesthes bonariensis, Pelteobagrus vachelli, Posidonia oceanica, Potamotrygon motoro, Rhamdia quelen, Sarotherodon melanotheron heudelotii, Sibiraea angustata, Takifugu rubripes, Tarentola mauritanica, Trimmatostroma sp. and Wallago attu. These loci were cross‐tested on the following species: Alburnoides fasciatus, Alburnoides kubanicus, Alburnoides maculatus, Alburnoides ohridanus, Alburnoides prespensis, Alburnoides rossicus, Alburnoides strymonicus, Alburnoides thessalicus, Alburnoides tzanevi, Carassius carassius, Fusarium asiaticum, Leucaspius delineatus, Loxigilla noctis dominica, Pelecus cultratus, Phoenix canariensis, Potamotrygon falkneri, Trachycarpus fortune and Vimba vimba.
The Relevance of the “h‐” and “g‐” Index to Economics in the Context of A Nation‐Wide Research Evaluation Scheme: The New Zealand Case
Authors: Anderson David L. , Tressler John
Published: March 2013

The purpose of this paper is to explore the relevance of the citation‐based “h‐” and “g‐” indexes as a means for measuring research output in economics. This study is unique in that it is the first to utilise the “h‐” and “g‐”indexes in the context of a time‐limited evaluation period and to provide comprehensive coverage of all academic economists in all university‐based economics departments within a nation state. For illustration purposes, we have selected the New Zealand's Performance‐Based Research Fund (PBRF) as our evaluation scheme. To provide a frame of reference for “h‐” and “g‐”index‐output measures, we have also estimated research output using a number of journal‐based weighting schemes. In general, our findings suggest that “h‐” and “g‐”index scores are strongly associated with low‐powered journal ranking schemes and weakly associated with high powered journal weighting schemes. More specifically, we found the “h‐” and “g‐”indexes to suffer from a lack of differentiation: for example, 52 per cent of all participants received a score of zero under both measures, and 92 and 89 per cent received scores of two or less under “h‐” and “g‐” respectively. Overall, our findings suggest that “h‐” and “g‐”indexes should not be incorporated into a PBRF‐like framework.
Assessment of changes in cardiac index and fluid responsiveness: a comparison of Nexfin and transpulmonary thermodilution
Authors: FISCHER M. ‐O. , COUCORAVAS J. , TRUONG J. , ZHU L. , GÉRARD J. ‐L. , HANOUZ J. ‐L. , FELLAHI J. ‐L.
Published: March 2013

Background

The Nexfin device uses non‐invasive photoplethysmography to monitor cardiac output and respiratory variations in pulse pressure and stroke volume. The aim of this study was to compare rapid changes in cardiac index after fluid challenge between Nexfin and bolus transpulmonary thermodilution and the ability to predict fluid responsiveness of dynamic indices given by Nexfin.

Methods

Simultaneous comparative cardiac index were collected from transpulmonary thermodilution and Nexfin before and after fluid challenge in 45 patients following conventional cardiac surgery. Correlations, Bland–Altman analyses and percentage errors were calculated. Pulse pressure variations and stroke volume variations before fluid challenge were collected to assess their discrimination in predicting fluid responsiveness.

Results

Eight (18%) patients were excluded. A weak positive relationship was found between rapid changes in cardiac index after fluid challenge given by both technologies (n = 37, r = 0.39, P = 0.019). Bias, precision and limits of agreements were 0.20 l/min/m2 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.02–0.40), 0.57 l/min/m2 and ± 1.12 l/min/m2 before fluid challenge, and 0.01 l/min/m2 (95% CI −0.24 to 0.26), 0.74 l/min/m2 and ± 1.45 l/min/m2 after fluid challenge. Percentage errors between Nexfin and transpulmonary thermodilution were 55% and 58% before and after fluid challenge, respectively. Pulse pressure variations and stroke volume variations given by Nexfin were not discriminant to predict fluid responsiveness: areas under receiver operating characteristics curves 0.57 (95% CI 0.40–0.73) and 0.50 (0.33–0.67), respectively.

Conclusions

The Nexfin cannot be used to measure rapid changes in cardiac index following fluid challenge and to predict fluid responsiveness after cardiac surgery.
The Effects of Alcohol on Responses to Nicotine‐Containing and Denicotinized Cigarettes in Dependent and Nondaily Smokers
Authors: Barrett Sean P. , Campbell Mallory L. , Roach Sean , Stewart Sherry H. , Darredeau Christine
Published: March 2013

Background

Alcohol consumption has been linked to increased tobacco use and craving in both dependent and nondaily smokers, yet the extent to which these relationships depend on interactions involving nicotine remains unclear. This study examined the acute effects of alcohol on the subjective and behavioral responses to nicotine‐containing tobacco and denicotinized tobacco in 17 (10 male) dependent daily smokers (DDS) and 23 (11 male) nondependent nondaily smokers (NNS).

Methods

During 4 randomized double‐blind sessions, participants assessed the effects of nicotine‐containing tobacco or denicotinized tobacco following the administration of a moderately intoxicating dose of alcohol (mean blood alcohol concentration = 0.076 g/dl) or a placebo beverage. They could then self‐administer additional puffs of the same type of cigarette sampled over a 60‐minute period using a progressive ratio task.

Results

In NNS, alcohol significantly increased the self‐administration of both nicotine‐containing and denicotinized cigarettes, and no differences in self‐administration were observed between the 2 types of tobacco within either beverage condition. In contrast, in DDS, alcohol was associated with decreased denicotinized tobacco self‐administration relative to the placebo beverage condition as well as with increased self‐administration of nicotine‐containing tobacco relative to denicotinized tobacco. DDS also exhibited relatively elevated craving following the administration of a nicotine‐containing cigarette in the alcohol beverage condition.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that nicotine may be critical to the drinking–smoking relationship in DDS, but that nonnicotine smoking factors may be more important in NNS.
Examining the Relationship Between Alcohol‐Energy Drink Risk Profiles and High‐Risk Drinking Behaviors
Authors: Varvil‐Weld Lindsey , Marzell Miesha , Turrisi Rob , Mallett Kimberly A. , Cleveland Michael J.
Published: March 2013

Background

The mixing of alcohol and energy drinks (AMEDs) is a trend among college students associated with higher rates of heavy episodic drinking and negative alcohol‐related consequences. The goals of this study were to take a person‐centered approach to identify distinct risk profiles of college students based on AMED‐specific constructs (expectancies, attitudes, and norms) and examine longitudinal associations between AMED use, drinking, and consequences.

Methods

A random sample of incoming freshmen (n = 387, 59% female) completed measures of AMED use, AMED‐specific expectancies, attitudes, and normative beliefs, and drinking quantity and alcohol‐related consequences. Data were collected at 2 occasions: spring semester of freshmen year and fall semester of sophomore year.

Results

Latent profile analysis identified 4 subgroups of individuals: occasional AMED, anti‐AMED, pro‐AMED, and strong peer influence. Individuals in the pro‐AMED group reported the most AMED use, drinking, and consequences. There was a unique association between profile membership and AMED use, even after controlling for drinking.

Conclusions

Findings highlighted the importance of AMED‐specific expectancies, attitudes, and norms. The unique association between AMED risk profiles and AMED use suggests AMED use is a distinct behavior that could be targeted by AMED‐specific messages included in existing brief interventions for alcohol use.
Self‐Reported Quality of Life Before and After Aerobic Exercise Training in Individuals with Hypertension: A Randomised‐Controlled Trial
Authors: Maruf Fatai A. , Akinpelu Aderonke O. , Salako Babatunde L.
Published: March 2013

Background

The Effects of Aerobic Exercise Training (AET) on self‐reported Quality of Life (QoL) in people with hypertension have been previously documented. However, data on black populations, especially from Africa, seem not to be available. This study investigated the effects of AET on QoL and exercise capacity in Nigerians on treatment for essential hypertension.

Method

This randomised‐controlled trial involved newly diagnosed individuals, with mild‐to‐moderate essential hypertension randomly assigned to antihypertensive drugs (ADs) alone (control: n = 60) and AET+ADs (exercise: n = 60) groups. The study lasted for 12 weeks. QoL was measured using the World Health Organization QoL Short Form (WHOQoL‐BREF) and exercise capacity was assessed using the Rockport Fitness Walk Test pre‐ and post‐study.

Results

Physical health, psychological health, and social relationships domains of QoL improved significantly in the exercise and control groups post‐intervention. The environment domain of QoL and exercise capacity improved significantly in only the exercise group. There were larger improvements in the physical health, psychological health, and environment domains of QoL, and exercise capacity in the exercise group.

Conclusion

Aerobic exercise improves QoL and exercise capacity in individuals with essential hypertension.
Characterization of some ancient glass beads unearthed from theKizil reservoir andWanquan cemeteries inXinjiang,China
Authors: Li Q. H. , Liu S. , Zhao H. X. , Gan F. X. , Zhang P.
Published: March 2013

A total of 33 ancient glass beads unearthed from theKizil reservoir cemetery andWanquan cemetery inXinjiang are studied usingRaman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive spectrometry (SEM–EDS) and other methods. The detailed study of the glassy matrices, the crystalline inclusions and the microstructural heterogeneities for these glass beads has revealed some valuable information to help in the understanding of their possible manufacturing technology and provenance. At least two different types of glass were present in the two cemeteries. For the first time, antimony‐based colourant/opacifier—for example,Pb2Sb2O7orCaSb2O6—was systematically identified in some beads of plant‐ash type soda–lime glass dated to about 1000–500bc. The limited number of potash glass beads from theKizil reservoir cemetery, which were dated to about 500–300bc, used tin oxide as an opacifier. The diverse resources of the soda–lime and potash glasses indicate the existence of a complex trade network betweenChina and theWest much earlier than theWesternHanDynasty.
Determining the Firing Temperature of Low‐Fired Ancient Pottery: An Example from the Donghulin Site, Beijing, China
Authors: Zhu J. , Zhang Y. , Wang T. , Zhao C. H. , Yu J. C. , Glascock M. D. , Wang C. S.
Published: March 2013

The traditional thermal expansion method using a dilatometer fails to accurately determine the original firing temperatures of low‐fired ancient pottery. For this reason, we have developed an improved method of determining firing temperatures for low‐fired pottery. This paper explains the theory of the improved method and presents the reasonably satisfactory results obtained on ancient pottery from the Donghulin site (c. 10 000 bp). The method and the results are very important for the study of ancient pottery culture and clay moulds used for bronze casting.
Motility and fertility of boar semen after liquid preservation at 5°C for more than 2 weeks
Authors: Namula Zhao , Sato Yoko , Kodama Risa , Morinaga Kouta , Luu Vien Viet , Taniguchi Masayasu , Nakai Michiko , Tanihara Fuminori , Kikuchi Kazuhiro , Nagai Takashi , Otoi Takeshige
Published: March 2013

This study investigated the effects of skim milk on the quality and fertility of boar spermatozoa under long‐term chilled preservation. Semen samples were stored in Modena solution supplemented with 0 (control) to 50 mg/mL skim milk at 5°C for 4 weeks; spermatozoa stored with 7.5 and 15 mg/mL of skim milk (7.5‐SM and 15‐SM groups, respectively) exhibited significantly higher motility indices than those of the control group up to 3 weeks (P < 0.05), and the 7.5‐SM group showed improved motility indices even after 4 weeks (P < 0.05). In vitro fertilization using spermatozoa in the 7.5‐SM and 15‐SM groups stored at 5°C for 2 weeks showed significantly higher fertilization rates of spermatozoa and the development rates to blastocyst than the control group (P < 0.05), and the 7.5‐SM group showed similar rates of fertilization and blastocyst formation in the fresh non‐stored spermatozoa group. After artificial insemination using spermatozoa stored for 2 weeks in the 7.5‐SM group, healthy piglets were obtained. Boar spermatozoa can be stored at 5°C in a Modena solution containing skim milk. Supplementation of 7.5 mg/mL skim milk improves boar spermatozoa motility and fertility even after liquid preservation at 5°C for 2 weeks.
A novel approach to pharmaco‐EEG for investigating analgesics: assessment of spectral indices in single‐sweep evoked brain potentials
Authors: Gram Mikkel , Graversen Carina , Nielsen Anders K. , Arendt‐Nielsen Thomas , Mørch Carsten D. , Andresen Trine , Drewes Asbjørn M.
Published: March 2013

Aims

To compare results from analysis of averaged and single‐sweep evoked brain potentials (EPs) by visual inspection and spectral analysis in order to identify an objective measure for the analgesic effect of buprenorphine and fentanyl.

Methods

Twenty‐two healthy males were included in a randomized study to assess the changes in EPs after 110 sweeps of painful electrical stimulation to the median nerve following treatment with buprenorphine, fentanyl or placebo patches. Bone pressure, cutaneous heat and electrical pain ratings were assessed. EPs and pain assessments were obtained before drug administration, 24, 48, 72 and 144 h after beginning of treatment. Features from EPs were extracted by three different approaches: (i) visual inspection of amplitude and latency of the main peaks in the average EPs, (ii) spectral distribution of the average EPs and (iii) spectral distribution of the EPs from single‐sweeps.

Results

Visual inspection revealed no difference between active treatments and placebo (all P > 0.05). Spectral distribution of the averaged potentials showed a decrease in the beta (12–32 Hz) band for fentanyl (P = 0.036), which however did not correlate with pain ratings. Spectral distribution in the single‐sweep EPs revealed significant increases in the theta, alpha and beta bands for buprenorphine (all P < 0.05) as well as theta band increase for fentanyl (P = 0.05). For buprenorphine, beta band activity correlated with bone pressure and cutaneous heat pain (both P = 0.04, r = 0.90).

Conclusion

In conclusion single‐sweep spectral band analysis increases the information on the response of the brain to opioids and may be used to identify the response to analgesics.
Phenomenology of bipolar disorder not otherwise specified in youth: a comparison of clinical characteristics across the spectrum of manic symptoms
Authors: Hafeman Danella , Axelson David , Demeter Christine , Findling Robert L , Fristad Mary A , Kowatch Robert A , Youngstrom Eric A , Horwitz Sarah McCue , Arnold L Eugene , Frazier Thomas W , Ryan Neal , Gill Mary Kay , Hauser‐Harrington Jessica C , Depew Judith , Rowles Brieana M , Birmaher Boris
Published: March 2013

Objectives

Controversy surrounds the diagnostic categorization of children with episodic moods that cause impairment, but do not meet DSM‐IV criteria for bipolar I (BD‐I) or bipolar II (BD‐II) disorder. This study aimed to characterize the degree to which these children, who meet criteria for bipolar disorder not otherwise specified (BD‐NOS), are similar to those with full syndromal BD, versus those with no bipolar spectrum diagnosis (no BSD).

Methods

Children aged 6–12 years were recruited from nine outpatient clinics, preferentially selected for higher scores on a 10‐item screen for manic symptoms. Interviews with the children and their primary caregivers assessed a wide array of clinical variables, as well as family history.

Results

A total of 707 children [mean ± standard deviation (SD) 9.4 ± 1.9 years old] were evaluated at baseline, and were diagnosed with BD‐I (n = 71), BD‐II (n = 3), BD‐NOS (including cyclothymia; n = 88), or no BSD (n = 545). Compared to BD‐I, the BD‐NOS group had less severe past functional impairment. However, current symptom severity and functional impairment did not differ between BD‐NOS and BD‐I, even though both groups were significantly more symptomatic and impaired than the no BSD group. Parental psychiatric history was similar for the BD‐NOS and BD‐I groups, and both were more likely than the no BSD group to have a parent with a history of mania. Rates of elated mood did not differ between BD‐NOS and BD‐I youth.

Conclusions

Children with BD‐NOS and BD‐I are quite similar, but different from the no BSD group, on many phenomenological measures. These findings support the hypothesis that BD‐NOS is on the same spectrum as BD‐I.
Does BCR/ABL1 positive Acute Myeloid Leukaemia Exist?
Authors: Nacheva Ellie P. , Grace Colin D. , Brazma Diana , Gancheva Katya , Howard‐Reeves Julie , Rai Lena , Gale Rosemary E. , Linch David C. , Hills Robert K. , Russell Nigel , Burnett Alan K. , Kottaridis Panagiotis D.
Published: March 2013

The BCR/ABL1 fusion gene, usually carried by the Philadelphia chromosome (Ph) resulting from t(9;22)(q34;q11) or variants, is pathognomonic for chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML). It is also occasionally found in acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) mostly in adults and rarely in de novo acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). Array Comparative Genomic Hybridization (aCGH) was used to study six Ph(+)AML, three bi‐lineage and four Ph(+)ALL searching for specific genomic profiles. Surprisingly, loss of the IKZF1 and/or CDKN2A genes, the hallmark of Ph(+)ALL, were recurrent findings in Ph(+)AML and accompanied cryptic deletions within the immunoglobulin and T cell receptor genes. The latter two losses have been shown to be part of ‘hot spot’ genome imbalances associated with BCR/ABL1 positive pre‐B lymphoid phenotype in CML and Ph(+)ALL. We applied Significance Analysis of Microarrays (SAM) to data from the ‘hot spot’ regions to the Ph(+)AML and a further 40 BCR/ABL1(+) samples looking for differentiating features. After exclusion of the most dominant markers, SAM identified aberrations unique to de novo Ph(+)AML that involved relevant genes. While the biological and clinical significance of this specific genome signature remains to be uncovered, the unique loss within the immunoglobulin genes provides a simple test to enable the differentiation of clinically similar de novo Ph(+) AML and myeloid blast crisis of CML.
Down expression of LRP1B promotes cell migration via RhoA/Cdc42 pathway and actin cytoskeleton remodeling in renal cell cancer
Authors: Ni Shaobin , Hu Jianran , Duan Yongshun , Shi Shuliang , Li Ruo , Wu Hongjin , Qu Youpeng , Li Yu
Published: March 2013

The low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 1B (LRP1B) is known as a putative tumor suppressor. The decreased expression of LRP1B has been involved in multiple primary cancers in several studies. However, its expression and function in the carcinogenesis of renal cell cancer (RCC) remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the expression of LRP1B in RCC by in situ hybridization (ISH) and real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). Our results indicated that LRP1B was frequently downexpressed in human RCC tissue and cell lines, which involved both epigenetic events (DNA methylation and histone deacetylation) and N‐terminal deletion of LRP1B. Moreover, we testified that knockdown of LRP1B by shRNA significantly promoted anchorage‐independent growth, cell migration and invasion in HEK293 cells and renal cancer cells 127 in vitro. We further found that silencing of LRP1B altered the expression of focal adhesion complex‐associated proteins, and Cdc42/RhoA activities, which regulate the cytoskeleton dynamics. Taken together, these results strongly support that LRP1B may function as a tumor suppressor against renal cell cancer, and may regulate cell motility via RhoA/Cdc42 pathway and actin cytoskeleton reorganization in RCC.
Clinicopathological prognostic indicators in 107 patients with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma transformed from follicular lymphoma
Authors: Maeshima Akiko M. , Taniguchi Hirokazu , Fukuhara Suguru , Maruyama Dai , Kim Sung‐Won , Watanabe Takashi , Kobayashi Yukio , Tobinai Kensei , Tsuda Hitoshi
Published: March 2013

Follicular lymphoma (FL) frequently transforms into diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL). To clarify the associated clinicopathological prognostic parameters, we examined the correlation of 11 histopathological parameters with progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in 107 consecutive patients who had DLBCL with pre‐existing (asynchronous) or synchronous FL. The patients comprised 58 men and 49 women with a median age of 56 years. For DLBCL, the complete response rate was 81%, overall response rate was 88%, and 5‐year PFS and OS rates were 55% and 79%, respectively. Immunohistochemical analysis of the DLBCL component revealed the following positivity rates: CD10, 64%; Bcl‐2, 83%; Bcl‐6, 88%; MUM1, 42%; GCB, 82%; cMyc index ≥80%, 17%; and Ki‐67 index ≥90%, 19%. IGH/BCL2 fusion was positive in 57% of DLBCL cases. In univariate analyses, asynchronous FL and DLBCL (24%, P = 0.021), 100% proportion of DLBCL (29%, P = 0.004), Bcl‐2 positivity (P = 0.04), and high Ki‐67 index (P = 0.003) were significantly correlated with shorter PFS. Asynchronous FL and DLBCL (P = 0.003), 100% proportion of DLBCL (P = 0.001), and high Ki‐67 index (P = 0.004) were significantly correlated with shorter OS. In a multivariate analysis, asynchronous FL and DLBCL (P = 0.035) and 100% proportion of DLBCL (P = 0.016) were significantly correlated with shorter OS. Thus, asynchronism and 100% proportion of DLBCL, that is, FL relapsed as pure DLBCL, or FL and DLBCL at different sites, were significant predictors of unfavorable outcome of patients with DLBCL transformed from FL.
Development and Applications of Porous Tantalum Trabecular Metal‐Enhanced Titanium Dental Implants
Authors: Bencharit Sompop , Byrd Warren C. , Altarawneh Sandra , Hosseini Bashir , Leong Austin , Reside Glenn , Morelli Thiago , Offenbacher Steven
Published: March 2013

Background

Porous tantalum trabecular metal has recently been incorporated in titanium dental implants as a new form of implant surface enhancement. However, there is little information on the applications of this material in implant dentistry.

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to summarize the contemporary concept on the applications of porous tantalum trabecular metal in implant dentistry.

Materials and Methods

We therefore review the current literature on the basic science and clinical uses of this material.

Results

Porous tantalum metal is used to improve the contact between osseous structure and dental implants and therefore presumably facilitate osseointegration. Success of porous tantalum metal in orthopedic implants led to the incorporation of porous tantalum metal in the design of root‐form endosseous titanium implants. The porous tantalum three‐dimensional enhancement of titanium dental implant surface allows for combining bone ongrowth together with bone ingrowth, or osseoincorporation. While little is known about the biological aspect of the porous tantalum in the oral cavity, there seems to be several possible advantages of this implant design. This article reviews the biological aspects of porous tantalum‐enhanced titanium dental implants, in particular the effects of anatomical consideration and oral environment to implant designs.

Conclusions

We propose here possible clinical situations and applications for this type of dental implant. Advantages and disadvantages of the implants as well as needed future clinical studies are discussed.
Retentive Strength of Two‐Piece CAD/CAM Zirconia Implant Abutments
Authors: Gehrke Peter , Alius Jochen , Fischer Carsten , Erdelt Kurt J. , Beuer Florian
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the retention of two‐piece computer‐aided design (CAD)/computer aided manufacturing (CAM) zirconia abutments after artificial aging under simulated oral conditions using three different types of resin‐based luting agents.

Material and Methods

Twenty‐one CAD/CAM‐generated zirconia copings (CERCON Compartis, Degudent, Hanau, Germany) were bonded to a prefabricated secondary titanium implant insert (XiVE Ti‐Base, Dentsply Friadent, Mannheim, Germany), using three different types of resin‐based luting agents: group A: Panavia 21 (Kuraray Co, Kurashiki, Japan); group B: Multilink Implant (Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein); and group C: SmartCem2 (Dentsply DeTrey, Konstanz, Germany). The bonding surfaces of the titanium inserts and the zirconia ceramic copings were air‐abraded and cleaned in alcohol. All specimens were stored in distilled water for 60 days and subsequently thermal‐cycled 15,000 times (5–55°C). The dislodging force of the copings along the long axis of the implant/abutment complex was recorded using a universal testing machine with 2 mm/min crosshead speed. Data were analyzed descriptively and by performing the Kruskal–Wallis test.

Results

The mean retention values were 924.93 ± 363.31 N for Panavia 21, 878.05 ± 208.33 N for Multilink Implant, and 650.77 ± 174.92 N for SmartCem2. The Kruskal–Wallis test indicated no significant difference between the retention values of the tested luting agents (p = 0.1314). The failure modes of all tested two‐piece abutments were completely adhesive, leaving the detached zirconia coping and titanium insert undamaged.

Conclusion

The use of resin‐based luting agents in combination with air abrasion of titanium inserts and zirconia copings led to a stable retention of two‐piece CAD/CAM abutments. The bonding stability of the investigated luting agents exceeded the general limits of fracture resistance of two‐piece zirconia abutments. A notable difference between the mean retention values of the tested bond materials was shown. However, the statistical analysis revealed that this difference was not significant.
Early Loading of Implants with Fixed Dental Prostheses in Edentulous Mandibles: 7.2‐Year Clinical Results from a Prospective Study
Authors: Schwarz Stefanie , Bernhart Gunda , Eiffler Constantin , Hassel Alexander Jochen , Lehmann Franziska , Rammelsberg Peter
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this prospective follow‐up study was to evaluate survival and success of early‐loaded implants placed in the edentulous mandible and the survival of the fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) after in mean 7.2 years.

Materials and Methods

Thirty‐seven patients (mean age 64.5 years, 18.9% male) received 185 implants in the intraforaminal area of the edentulous mandible (five implants per patient). Within 2 weeks, all implants were early loaded with fixed dental prostheses. The patients were recalled once a year for clinical and radiographic examinations. The 17 patients (79 implants) attending the recall in 2012 were additionally asked for their satisfaction of functional and aesthetic aspects.

Results

During a mean observation time of 7.2 years, 20 implants were lost in 11 patients, resulting in implant survival of 89.2%. Eight of all implants (4.3%) had too much marginal bone loss to satisfy the criteria of success. A total of 19 prosthetic complications and aftercare measurements had to be performed between in mean 4.5 to 7.2 years of observation. The survival of the originalFDPsdecreased to 83.8%. Of the 17 patients attending the recall in 2012, a total 59.5% had a satisfactory oral hygiene. According to the criteria ofAlbrektsson, the success rate for the remaining 79 implants was 89.9% after in mean 11.7 years. Patient satisfaction for assessment of functional and aesthetic aspects was in median 9 and 8 on the numeric rating scales.

Conclusion

Long‐term observation of in mean 7.2 years showed satisfactory results for both implant and superstructure survival. Prosthetic complications were easy to repair in most cases, but patients' ability for oral hygiene was reduced after the longer observation period. Especially in elderly patients, their attitudes and manual skills should be considered when planning the design of a new superstructure.
Glutathione Prevents Free Fatty Acids‐Induced Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis in Human Brain Vascular Endothelial Cells Through Akt Pathway
Authors: Zhou Hou‐Guang , Liu Ling , Zhang Yu , Huang Yan‐Yan , Tao Ying‐Hong , Zhang Shuo , Su Jing‐Jing , Tang Yu‐Ping , Guo Zhuang‐Li , Hu Ren‐Ming , Dong Qiang
Published: March 2013

Aims

The damage of human brain vascular endothelial cells (HBVECs) is the key pathogenesis of diabetes‐associated cerebral vascular complications. The aim of this study was to elucidate the effects of glutathione (GSH) on free fatty acids (FFAs)‐induced HBVECs apoptosis, oxidative stress, and the involved possible signaling pathway.

Methods

After culturing HBVECs for 72 h with GSH and FFAs, we determined cell proliferation by CCK8, detected apoptosis by caspase‐3 and Annexin V‐FITC/PI staining, and judged oxygen stress by determining the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). We investigated whether the Akt pathway was involved in FFAs‐induced signaling pathway alteration and whether GSH influenced the above effects.

Results

After being cultured in 200 μM FFAs for 72 h, the HBVECs proliferation significantly decreased; HBVECs apoptosis increased; the ROS levels increased; and the HBVECs MMP subsequently decreased. FFAs induced a significant decrease in phosphorylated active Akt. These alterations were obviously prevented when 1 mM GSH was added to culture medium containing FFAs, and the above effects of GSH were blocked by Akt inhibitor.

Conclusion

GSH may prevent FFAs‐induced HBVECs damage, oxidative stress, and apoptosis through activating the Akt pathway.
Influence of enhanced recovery after surgery pathways and laparoscopic surgery on health‐related quality of life
Authors: Khan S. A. , Ullah S. , Ahmed J. , Wilson T. R. , McNaught C. , Hartley J. , MacFie J.
Published: March 2013

Aim

This study set out to compare the postoperative health related quality of life (HQoL) of patients undergoing elective open colorectal surgery using a well‐established enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathway with those undergoing laparoscopic surgery without an established an ERAS pathway.

Method

Using a power calculation, it was estimated that 40 patients would be required in each group. HQoL of the two groups was prospectively assessed using SF‐12 (Short Form 12) and EORTC QLQ 30 (European Organisation of Research and Treatment of Cancer, Quality of Life Questionnaire) preoperatively, and at 2 and 6 weeks after discharge.

Results

Data were collected from 83 patients, 41 in the laparoscopic group and 42 in the open–ERAS group. There was a significant difference between the median length of stay of the open–ERAS (5 days) and laparoscopic (7 days, P = 0.028) groups. There were no significant differences between the HQoL score of the two groups at any stage. In both groups, the majority of HQoL scores had improved considerably by 6 weeks.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic and open–ERAS surgery have a similar impact on postoperative HQoL. HQoL tends to improve by the 6‐week stage.
Is hybrid robotic laparoscopic assistance the ideal approach for restorative rectal cancer dissection?
Authors: Zawadzki M. , Velchuru V. R. , Albalawi S. A. , Park J. J. , Marecik S. , Prasad L. M.
Published: March 2013

Aim

While the use of robotic assistance in the management of rectal cancer has gradually increased in popularity over the years, the optimal technique is still under debate. The authors' preferred technique is a robotic low anterior resection that requires a hybrid approach with laparoscopic hand‐assisted mobilization of the left colon and robotic assistance for rectal dissection. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of this approach as it relates to intra‐operative and short‐term outcomes.

Method

Between August 2005 and July 2011, consecutive patients undergoing rectal dissection for cancer via the hybrid robotic technique were included in our study. Demographics, margin positivity, intra‐operative and short‐term outcomes were evaluated.

Results

The preferred approach was performed in 77 patients with rectal adenocarcinoma. Of these, 68 underwent low anterior resection and nine had a coloanal pull‐through procedure (mean age 60.1 years; mean body mass index 28.0 kg/m2; mean operative time 327 min; conversion rate 3.9%). Three patients (3.9%) had positive resection margins (one circumferential, two distal). Five patients had an anastomotic leak (6.4%). No robot‐specific complications were observed.

Conclusion

The hybrid approach involving hand‐assisted left colon mobilization and robotic rectal dissection is a safe and feasible technique for minimally invasive low anterior resection. This approach can be considered an viable option for surgeons new to robotic rectal dissection.
Clinicopathological features of colorectal polyps: evaluation of the ‘predict, resect and discard’ strategies
Authors: Sakamoto T. , Matsuda T. , Nakajima T. , Saito Y.
Published: March 2013

Aim

‘Predict, resect and discard’ strategies for diminutive and small colonic polyps are considered to be cost effective for treating colorectal cancers. The aim of this study was to determine, retrospectively, the histological features of colonic polyps resected by endoscopic procedures or surgery using an updated database.

Method

We retrospectively analysed the clinicopathological features of colorectal polyps, less than 20 mm in size, which were removed by endoscopy from January 2009 to November 2011 at the National Cancer Center Hospital (NCCH) in Tokyo, Japan.

Results

Less than 1% of diminutive polyps (≤ 5 mm) were classified as mucosal high‐grade neoplasia (Category 4), and no submucosal invasion by carcinoma (Category 5) lesions were noted. However, 3% of small polyps (6–9 mm) were classified as Category 5; of these, 6% were submucosal deep invasive cancers. Morphologically, depressed components were observed more frequently in carcinomas than in adenomas in both small and large polyps (10–20 mm).

Conclusion

In light of the ‘predict, resect and discard’ strategies for small polyps, we should pay attention to the possible clinical malignancy of small and large polyps. We recommend that these strategies should be applied selectively and that they should be informed by accurate endoscopic evaluations.
Undue industry influences that distort healthcare research, strategy, expenditure and practice: a review
Authors: Stamatakis Emmanuel , Weiler Richard , Ioannidis John P.A.
Published: March 2013

Background

Expenditure on industry products (mostly drugs and devices) has spiraled over the last 15 years and accounts for substantial part of healthcare expenditure. The enormous financial interests involved in the development and marketing of drugs and devices may have given excessive power to these industries to influence medical research, policy, and practice.

Material and methods

Review of the literature and analysis of the multiple pathways through which the industry has directly or indirectly infiltrated the broader healthcare systems. We present the analysis of the industry influences at the following levels: (i) evidence base production, (ii) evidence synthesis, (iii) understanding of safety and harms issues, (iv) cost‐effectiveness evaluation, (v) clinical practice guidelines formation, (vi) healthcare professional education, (vii) healthcare practice, (viii) healthcare consumer's decisions.

Results

We located abundance of consistent evidence demonstrating that the industry has created means to intervene in all steps of the processes that determine healthcare research, strategy, expenditure, practice and education. As a result of these interferences, the benefits of drugs and other products are often exaggerated and their potential harms are downplayed, and clinical guidelines, medical practice, and healthcare expenditure decisions are biased.

Conclusion

To serve its interests, the industry masterfully influences evidence base production, evidence synthesis, understanding of harms issues, cost‐effectiveness evaluations, clinical practice guidelines and healthcare professional education and also exerts direct influences on professional decisions and health consumers. There is an urgent need for regulation and other action towards redefining the mission of medicine towards a more objective and patient‐, population‐ and society‐benefit direction that is free from conflict of interests.
Influence of obesity on atherogenic dyslipidemia in women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Hernández‐Mijares Antonio , Bañuls Celia , Gómez‐Balaguer Marcelino , Bergoglio Marina , Víctor Victor M. , Rocha Milagros
Published: March 2013

Background

Obesity is known to underlie, at least partially, dyslipidemia in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), but it is unclear whether PCOS status per se increases the risk of alterations of lipoprotein subfractions, which differ in size and atherogenic potential. Our objective was to evaluate whether PCOS influences lipoprotein profile and LDL and HDL subfractions and to study the impact of obesity on these parameters.

Materials and methods

This was a case–control study conducted in an academic medical centre. The study population consisted of 54 women of fertile age with PCOS and 60 controls adjusted for age and BMI. Biochemical lipid profile and LDL and HDL lipoprotein subfractions (measured using Lipoprint System).

Results

Lean PCOS women exhibited lower HDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein AI levels than controls, although these differences were not associated with alterations of lipoprotein subfractions. All obese subjects, whether PCOS or controls, displayed lipid parameters typical of atherogenic dyslipidemia, although the former group had lower levels of large HDL, higher levels of small HDL subfractions and a higher percentage of VLDL than the latter. These differences were associated with a greater prevalence of non‐A LDL pattern (25.0%) in obese PCOS subjects than in obese controls (4.3%).

Conclusions

PCOS does not constitute an additional risk factor for cardiovascular disease in lean women, but leads to a lipid profile characteristic of atherogenic dyslipidemia and an altered pattern of lipoprotein subfraction when associated with obesity.
WHAT'S SO FUNNY ABOUT MAKING MONETARY POLICY?
Authors: CAPEHART KEVIN W.
Published: March 2013

During their meetings, the members of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) make monetary policy, but they also make each other laugh. This article studies the amount of laughter elicited by members of the FOMC during their meetings. The study finds that a member elicits more laughter if he or she expects higher inflation, other things being equal. This finding suggests that members may use humor to cope with the threat of inflation. (JEL E52, E58, C23)
IS PHYSICAL INVESTMENT THE KEY TO CHINA'S GROWTH MIRACLE?
Authors: ROMERO‐ÁVILA DIEGO
Published: March 2013

This paper applies Jones' test for the empirical validity of AK‐type models to the Chinese economy over the period 1952–2006 (Jones C. I., Quarterly Journal of Economics, 110, 1995a, 495–525). We aim to establish whether large permanent movements in the physical investment rate cause permanent movements in output growth. The evidence indicates that the one‐sector AK model cannot be rejected. We also find that augmenting the model to allow for transitional dynamics—via imbalances in factor endowments, structural transformation, and R&D‐based technology transfer—does a better job in describing China's growth dynamics than the basic AK model. (JEL C22, O41, O47)
INTERNATIONAL SUPPLY CHAINS AND THE VOLATILITY OF TRADE
Authors: BRIDGMAN BENJAMIN
Published: March 2013

Were the large import fluctuations around the 2007–2009 recession because of increasing trade volatility? I show that import volatility relative to gross domestic product (GDP) increased in the 2000s and examine whether vertical specialization (VS) trade can explain this increase. I develop and calibrate a model of VS trade that generates most of the observed increase in relative import volatility from the 1960s to the 2000s. The increase is because of GDP's shift to less volatile services production. VS trade has a negligible impact. VS causes trade to fall more in recession but also increases the share of output that is traded, leaving volatility unaffected. It increases volatility by shifting trade to more volatile sectors, but this effect is quantitatively small. (JEL E3, F1)
WAR OF ATTRITION: EVIDENCE FROM A LABORATORY EXPERIMENT ON MARKET EXIT
Authors: OPREA RYAN , WILSON BART J. , ZILLANTE ARTHUR
Published: March 2013

We report an experiment designed to study whether inefficient firms are systematically driven from overcrowded markets. Our data set includes a series of 3,800 wars of attrition of a type modeled by Fudenberg and Tirole in 1986. We find that exit tends to be efficient and exit times conform surprisingly well to point predictions of the model. Moreover, subjects respond similarly to implementations framed in terms of losses as they do to those framed in terms of gains. (JEL D21, L11, C92)
An experimental test of the hypothesis of non‐homeostatic consumer stoichiometry in a plant litter–microbe system
Authors: Fanin Nicolas , Fromin Nathalie , Buatois Bruno , Hättenschwiler Stephan
Published: March 2013

Stoichiometric homeostasis of heterotrophs is a common, but not always well‐examined premise in ecological stoichiometry. We experimentally evaluated the relationship between substrate (plant litter) and consumer (microorganisms) stoichiometry for a tropical terrestrial decomposer system. Variation in microbial C : P and N : P ratios tracked that of the soluble litter fraction, but not that of bulk leaf litter material. Microbial N and P were not isometrically related, suggesting higher rates of P than N sequestration in microbial biomass. Shifts in microbial stoichiometry were related to changes in microbial community structure. Our results indicate that P in dissolved form is a major driver of terrestrial microbial stoichiometry, similar to aquatic environments. The demonstrated relative plasticity in microbial C : P and N : P and the critical role of P have important implications for theoretical modelling and contribute to a process‐based understanding of stoichiometric relationships and the flow of elements across trophic levels in decomposer systems.
Mapping the interactions of selected antibiotics and their Cu2+ complexes with the antigenomic delta ribozyme
Authors: Wrzesinski Jan , Błaszczyk Leszek , Wrońska Magdalena , Kasprowicz Aleksandra , Stokowa‐Sołtys Kamila , Nagaj Justyna , Szafraniec Milena , Kulinski Tadeusz , Jeżowska‐Bojczuk Małgorzata , Ciesiołka Jerzy
Published: March 2013

The interactions of selected antibiotics with the trans‐acting antigenomic delta ribozyme were mapped. Ribozyme with two oligonucleotide substrates was used, one uncleavable with deoxycytidine at the cleavage site, mimicking the initial state of ribozyme, and the other with an all‐RNA substrate mimicking, after cleavage, the product state. Mapping was performed with a set of RNA structural probing methods: Pb2+ ‐induced cleavage, nuclease digestion, and the selective 2′‐hydroxyl acylation analyzed by primer extension (SHAPE) approach. The experimental results combined with molecular modeling revealed different binding sites for neomycin B, amikacin and actinomycin D inside the ribozyme structure. Neomycin B, an aminoglycoside antibiotic, which strongly inhibited the catalytic properties of delta ribozyme, was bound to the pocket formed by the P1 stem, the P1.1 pseudoknot, and the J4/2 junction. Amikacin showed less effective binding to the ribozyme catalytic core, resulting in weak inhibition. Complexes of these aminoglycosides with Cu2+ ions were bound to the same ribozyme regions, but more effectively, showing lower Kd values. On the other hand, the Cu2+ complex of the cyclopeptide antibiotic actinonomycin D was preferentially intercalated into the P2 and the P4 double‐stranded region, and was three times more potent in ribozyme inhibition than the free antibiotic. In addition, some differences in SHAPE reactivities between the ribozyme forms containing all‐RNA and deoxycytidine‐modified substrates in the J4/2 region were detected, pointing to different ribozyme conformations before and after the cleavage event.