bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autologous fat transfer for breast augmentation: a systematic review
Authors: Leopardi Deanne , Thavaneswaran Prema , Mutimer Keith L. A. , Olbourne Norman A. , Maddern Guy J.
Published: May 2013

Background

The role of autologous fat transfer (AFT) for cosmetic breast augmentation is uncertain due to ongoing concerns regarding its safety and efficacy compared with other breast augmentation techniques.

Objectives

The aim of this systematic review was to assess the safety and efficacy of AFT for cosmetic breast augmentation in comparison with saline and cohesive silicone gel implants.

Methods

A systematic search of several electronic databases, including PubMed and EMBASE, was used to identify relevant studies for inclusion. The inclusion of studies was established through the application of a predetermined protocol by two independent reviewers.

Results

There were no comparative studies available, necessitating that all comparisons be indirect. Eighteen studies were included, 11 of which reported outcomes for AFT. Complications associated with AFT occurred in only a small proportion of patients, with fat necrosis, cysts and lumps most commonly reported. No data examining the effect of complications such as microcalcification on long‐term mammographic and cancer‐related outcomes were identified. Reabsorption of fat occurred to varying degrees, usually during the first 12 months following the procedure. Patient satisfaction following AFT was high. Limitation in breast volume increase was the main complaint associated with this procedure.

Conclusions

Based on the limited evidence available, AFT was considered to be at least as safe as the nominated comparator procedures in regard to complications; however, its safety in regard to cancer detection could not be determined. The efficacy of AFT could not be determined.
Overexpression of PLCE1 in Kazakh esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: implications in cancer metastasis and aggressiveness
Authors: Chen Yun‐Zhao , Cui Xiao‐Bin , Hu Jian‐Ming , Zhang Wen Jie , Li Shu‐Gang , Yang Lan , Shen Xi‐Hua , Liu Chun‐Xia , Pan Qing‐Fang , Yu Shi‐Ying , Yuan Xiang‐Lin , Yang Lei , Gu Wen‐Yi , Chen Jie‐Zhong , Wang Li‐Dong , Li Feng
Published: May 2013

Three recent large‐scale genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) in Chinese Han populations have identified an esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) susceptibility locus within phospholipase C epsilon 1 (PLCE1) gene, which encodes a phospholipase involved in intracellular signaling. The expressed PLCE1 in ESCC, however, are inconsistent. This study examined PLCE1 expression by immunohistochemistry (IHC) from 110 ethnic Kazakh ESCC patients and 50 from adjacent normal esophageal tissues (NETs). The expressed PLCE1 was localized in cytoplasm, especially in the peripheral layers of cancer cell nests, which was significantly higher in tumors than in NETs (p < 0.001). Increased expression of PLCE1 was correlated with advanced tumor‐node‐metastasis (TNM) stages (p = 0.015) and lymph node metastasis (p = 0.003) in patients with ESCC. Of the 110 patients, we examined 50 paired ESCC tissues and corresponding NETs by quantitative RT‐PCR (polymerase chain reaction) and the mean mRNA level of PLCE1 in ESCC was 1.85‐fold higher compared with those in corresponding NETs (p = 0.0012). Meanwhile, 4 of 5 ESCC cell lines also showed elevated expression of PLCE1 mRNA. Furthermore, elevated expression of PLCE1 mRNA in Kazakh ESCC was associated with its immunoreactivity (ρ = 0.297, p = 0.040), lymph node metastasis (p < 0.001), and advanced TNM stages of ESCC (p = 0.013). To our knowledge, this study demonstrates for the first time that PLCE1 overexpression correlates with lymph node metastasis and advanced TNM stages of Kazakh ESCC, implicating a role of PLCE1 in cancer metastasis and aggressiveness in ethnic Kazakh patients with ESCC. Furthermore, the current findings may warrant investigations into whether inhibiting PLCE1 could be a strategy for targeted anticancer therapy particularly for Kazakh ESCC.
Anatomy of the fully formed chondrocranium of Podocnemis unifilis (Pleurodira: Podocnemididae)
Authors: Sheil Christopher A. , Zaharewicz Krista
Published: May 2013

This study describes the anatomy of the chondrocranium of Podocnemis unifilis (Pleurodira, Podocnemididae), based on recently hatched specimens, and cleared and double‐stained specimens. The orbitotemporal region is dramatically different from those observed for other species of turtles in that the: (1) planum supraseptale is greatly reduced and present only as tiny projections on the posterodorsal margin of the interorbital septum, (2) pila metoptica is free from all neighbouring structures and bifurcates distally, (3) pila antotica is greatly reduced, (4) foramina for optic nerve, ophthalmic artery and oculomotor nerves are open dorsally by virtue of this species lacking the taenia marginalis and taenia medialis, and (5) tectum synoticum is present and invested dorsally by the supraoccipital, despite the fact that this bone forms by replacement of the supraoccipital. The unique morphology of the pila metoptica is explained either as de novo formation of processes on the terminus of this cartilage or by retention of portions of the taenia medialis (anteriorly) and pila antotica or pila accessoria (posteriorly). Variation in the orbitotemporal region presented here is discussed for two other pleurodiran turtles (Phrynops hilarii and Emydura subglobosa) and briefly compared with the anatomy observed in Cryptodira.
Confirmatory factor analysis reveals a latent cognitive structure common to bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and normal controls
Authors: Schretlen David J , Peña Javier , Aretouli Eleni , Orue Izaskun , Cascella Nicola G , Pearlson Godfrey D , Ojeda Natalia
Published: May 2013

Objective

We sought to determine whether a single hypothesized latent factor structure would characterize cognitive functioning in three distinct groups.

Methods

We assessed 576 adults (340 community controls, 126 adults with bipolar disorder, and 110 adults with schizophrenia) using 15 measures derived from nine cognitive tests. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to examine the fit of a hypothesized six‐factor model. The hypothesized factors included attention, psychomotor speed, verbal memory, visual memory, ideational fluency, and executive functioning.

Results

The six‐factor model provided an excellent fit for all three groups [for community controls, root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) <0.048 and comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.99; for adults with bipolar disorder, RMSEA = 0.071 and CFI = 0.99; and for adults with schizophrenia, RMSEA = 0.06 and CFI = 0.98]. Alternate models that combined fluency with processing speed or verbal and visual memory reduced the goodness of fit. Multi‐group CFA results supported factor invariance across the three groups.

Conclusions

Confirmatory factor analysis supported a single six‐factor structure of cognitive functioning among patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder and community controls. While the three groups clearly differ in level of performance, they share a common underlying architecture of information processing abilities. These cognitive factors could provide useful targets for clinical trials of treatments that aim to enhance information processing in persons with neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders.
The role of environment design in an educational Multi‐User Virtual Environment
Authors: Papachristos Nikiforos M. , Vrellis Ioannis , Natsis Antonis , Mikropoulos Tassos A.
Published: May 2013

This paper presents empirical results from an exploratory study conducted in an authentic educational situation with preservice education students enrolled in an undergraduate course, which was partially taught in Second Life. The study investigated the effect of environment design on presence, learning outcomes and the overall experience of the students. Two different educational virtual environments (a traditional university auditorium and an open‐air setting) were designed and presented to different groups of students (n = 51). Results indicate that students' experience from the educational activities, their attitudes toward the environment and the induced sense of presence are not affected by the design of the educational setting. Learning outcomes seem to be slightly better in virtual educational settings that replicate traditional educational settings. Experience shows that undergraduate university classes can be successfully taught in Second Life and such environments elicit satisfaction, positive experiences and attitudes and high levels of social presence from the participants. Course design in a Multi‐User Virtual Environment (MUVE) should take into account the time and training necessary for all students to become familiar with the virtual environment and possible time losses due to technical issues. This study could act as support to construct and test hypotheses regarding the role of educational setting design in teaching and learning in MUVEs.
Causes of death in men with prostate cancer: an analysis of 50 000 men from the Thames Cancer Registry
Authors: Chowdhury Simon , Robinson David , Cahill Declan , Rodriguez‐Vida Alejo , Holmberg Lars , Møller Henrik
Published: May 2013

Objective

To investigate causes of death in a UK cohort of patients with prostate cancer.

Patients and Methods

We examined causes of death in a UK cohort of 50 066 men with prostate cancer diagnosed between 1997 and 2006 reported to the Thames Cancer Registry (TCR) and followed‐up to the end of 2007.

The underlying cause of death was taken from the death certificate.

Uptake of PSA screening was low in the UK during the period studied.

We examined the relationship between cause of death and patient characteristics at diagnosis including age, cancer stage, and treatment (≤6 months of diagnosis).

Results

In all, 20 181 deaths occurred during the period; 49.8% recorded as being due to prostate cancer, 17·8% to cardiovascular disease, 11·6% to other cancers, and 20·7% to other causes.

Irrespective of age, cancer stage, or treatment ≤6 months of diagnosis, prostate cancer was an important cause of death ranging from 31·6% to 74·3% of all deaths in different subgroups.

Conclusion

For men with prostate cancer diagnosed in a setting where uptake of PSA screening is low, our findings challenge the belief that prostate cancer is not an important cause of death.
Unaltered oncological outcomes of radical cystectomy with extended lymphadenectomy over three decades
Authors: Zehnder Pascal , Studer Urs E. , Skinner Eila C. , Thalmann George N. , Miranda Gus , Roth Beat , Cai Jie , Birkhäuser Frédéric D. , Mitra Anirban P. , Burkhard Fiona C. , Dorin Ryan P. , Daneshmand Siamak , Skinner Donald G. , Gill Inderbir S.
Published: May 2013

Objective

To evaluate oncological outcome trends over the last three decades in patients after radical cystectomy (RC) and extended pelvic lymph node (LN) dissection.

Patients and Methods

Retrospective analysis of the University of Southern California (USC) RC cohort of patients (1488 patients) operated with intent to cure from 1980 to 2005 for biopsy confirmed muscle‐invasive urothelial bladder cancer.

To focus on outcomes of unexpected (cN0M0) LN‐positive patients, the USC subset was extended with unexpected LN‐positive patients from the University of Berne (UB) (combined subgroup 521 patients).

Patients were grouped and compared according to decade of surgery (1980–1989/1990–1999/≥2000).

Survival probabilities were calculated with Kaplan–Meier plots, log‐rank tests compared outcomes according to decade of surgery, followed by multivariable verification.

Results

The 10‐year recurrence‐free survival was 78–80% in patients with organ‐confined, LN‐negative disease, 53–60% in patients with extravesical, yet LN‐negative disease and ≈30% in LN‐positive patients.

Although the number of patients receiving systemic chemotherapy increased, no survival improvement was noted in either the entire USC cohort, or in the combined LN‐positive USC‐UB cohort.

In contrast, patient age at surgery increased progressively, suggesting a relative survival benefit.

Conclusions

Radical surgery remains the mainstay of therapy for muscle‐invasive bladder cancer.

Yet, our study reveals predictable outcomes but no survival improvement in patients undergoing RC over the last three decades.

Any future survival improvements are likely to result from more effective systemic treatments and/or earlier detection of the disease.
Impaired cardiopulmonary reserve in an elderly population is related to postoperative morbidity and length of hospital stay after radical cystectomy
Authors: Prentis James M. , Trenell Michael I. , Vasdev Nikhil , French Rachel , Dines Georgina , Thorpe Andrew , Snowden Christopher P.
Published: May 2013

Objective

To determine the relationship of preoperatively measured cardiorespiratory function, to the development of postoperative complications and length of hospital stay (LOS) in a cohort of patients undergoing radical cystectomy (RC), as RC and conduit formation is curative but is associated with significant postoperative morbidity and mortality.

Patients and Methods

Consecutive patients planned to have RC underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) to a standardised protocol.

The results of the CPET were ‘blinded’ from the clinicians involved in the care of the patients.

Patients were prospectively monitored for the primary outcome of postoperative complications, as defined by a validated classification (Clavien‐Dindo).

Secondary outcome included LOS and mortality.

Results

In all, 82 patients underwent CPET before RC. Eight patients did not subsequently undergo RC and a further five did not exercise sufficiently to allow for appropriate determination of the cardiopulmonary variables of interest.

There was a significant difference in LOS between those patients who had a major perioperative complication (Clavien score > 3) and those that did not (16 vs 30 days; P < 0.001; hazard ratio [HR] 3.6, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.1–6.3).

The anaerobic threshold (AT) remained as the only significant independent predictor variable for the presence or absence of major postoperative complications (odds ratio 0.74, 95% CI 0.57–0.97; P = 0.03).

When the optimal predictive value of AT of 12 mL/min/kg was used as a fitness marker, there was a significant relationship between fitness and LOS (median LOS: ‘unfit’ 22 days vs ‘fit’ 16 days; HR 0.47, 95% CI 0.28–0.80; P = 0.006)

Conclusion

Impaired preoperative cardiopulmonary reserve was related to major morbidity, prolonged LOS and increased use of critical care resource after RC.

This has important health and economic implications for risk assessment, rationalisation of postoperative resource and the potential for therapeutic preoperative intervention with exercise therapy.
Comparison of prostate cancer diagnosis in patients receiving unrelated urological and non‐urological cancer care
Authors: Corcoran Anthony T. , Smaldone Marc C. , Egleston Brian L. , Simhan Jay , Ginzburg Serge , Morgan Todd M. , Walton John , Chen David Y.T. , Viterbo Rosalia , Greenberg Richard E. , Uzzo Robert G. , Kutikov Alexander
Published: May 2013

Objective

To evaluate prostate cancer diagnosis rates and survival outcomes in patients receiving unrelated (non‐prostate) urological care with those in patients receiving non‐urological care.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a population‐based study using the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database to identify men who underwent surgical treatment of renal cell carcinoma (RCC; n = 18 188) and colorectal carcinoma (CRC; n = 45 093) between 1992 and 2008.

Using SEER*stat software to estimate standardized incidence ratios (SIRs), we investigated rates of prostate cancer diagnosis in patients with RCC and patients with CRC.

Adjusting for patient age, race and year of diagnosis on multivariate analysis, we used Cox and Fine and Gray proportional hazards regressions to evaluate overall and disease‐specific survival endpoints.

Results

The observed incidence of prostate cancer was higher in both the patients with RCC and those with CRC: SIR = 1.36 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.27–1.46) vs 1.06 (95% CI 1.02–1.11). Adjusted prostate cancer SIRs were 30% higher (P < 0.001) in patients with RCC.

Overall (hazard ratio = 1.13, P < 0.001) and primary cancer‐adjusted mortalities (sub‐distribution Hazard Ratio (sHR) = 1.17, P < 0.001) were higher in patients with RCC with no significant difference in prostate cancer‐specific mortality (sHR = 0.827, P = 0.391).

Conclusion

Rates of prostate cancer diagnosis were higher in patients with RCC (a cohort with unrelated urological cancer care) than in those with CRC. Despite higher overall mortality in patients with RCC, prostate cancer‐specific survival was similar in both groups.

Opportunities may exist to better target prostate cancer screening in patients who receive non‐prostate‐related urological care. Furthermore, urologists should not feel obligated to perform prostate‐specific antigen screening for all patients receiving non‐prostate‐related urological care.
Patterns of management and surveillance imaging amongst medical oncologists in Australia for stage I testicular cancer
Authors: Grimison Peter , Houghton Baerin , Chatfield Mark , Toner Guy C. , Davis Ian D. , Martin Jarad , Hovey Elizabeth , Stockler Martin R.
Published: May 2013

Objective

To determine the patterns of management and surveillance imaging amongst medical oncologists in Australia for stage I testicular cancer during 2010.

Methods

We conducted a survey comprising 14 questions about the management strategy and surveillance imaging for all patients with stage I testicular cancer treated over the previous 12 months.

Results

A total of 52 medical oncologists documented the management for an estimated 470 patients.

For seminoma, management was in the form of surveillance in 33%, radiotherapy in 5% and adjuvant carboplatin in 62% of patients.

For non‐seminoma, management was surveillance in 73%, adjuvant chemotherapy in 23% and retroperitoneal lymph node dissection in 4% of patients.

The frequency of surveillance imaging was highly variable, and ≥10 computed tomography (CT) scans were used by 38% of clinicians for seminoma and 46% of clinicians for non‐seminoma.

Conclusion

We found considerable variation in management patterns. The infrequent use of surveillance and frequent use of carboplatin for seminoma differs from international guidelines.

Radiation exposure from CT imaging should be reduced through standardized follow‐up protocols, and possibly by alternate imaging methods if validated in appropriate studies.
Predictive factors of complications after robot‐assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy: a retrospective multicentre study
Authors: Mathieu Romain , Verhoest Gregory , Droupy Stéphane , de la Taille Alexandre , Bruyere Franck , Doumerc Nicolas , Rischmann Pascal , Vaessen Christophe , Roupret Morgan , Bensalah Karim
Published: May 2013

Objective

To analyse the predictive factors of complications after robot‐assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (RALPN).

Materials and Methods

Data from six French institutions on 240 patients who underwent RALPN between 2009 and 2011 were retrospectively reviewed.

Clinical (age, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists and Charlson comorbidity index scores, anticoagulant treatment), tumoral (size, R.E.N.A.L nephrometry score) and operative (surgeon experience, blood loss, opening of the collecting system, operating time) variables were considered.

Univariate and multivariate regression models were used to assess the impact of these variables on the occurrence of global and major postoperative complications, classified according to the Clavien system.

Results

The median (range) patient age was 61 (26–83) years. Tumours were of low complexity in 62% of cases. Median (range) operating time, blood loss and warm ischaemia time were 161 (45–425) min, 100 (0–2500) mL and 20 (0–59) min, respectively. Postoperative complications occurred in 79 (33%) patients. Complications were ≥grade III in 25 (10%) patients and were mostly haemorrhagic.

In multivariate analysis, surgeon's experience (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.14 [1.07–4.27], P = 0.03) and blood loss (HR: 1.002 [1.001–1.003], P < 0.001) were independent predictors of overall complications. When considering major complications, opening of the collecting system was the only factor that was significant (OR: 2.99 [1.2–7.26], P = 0.02). Nephrometry R.E.N.A.L. score was not associated with postoperative complications.

Conclusion

In our experience, RALPN is associated with a 30% risk of postoperative complications; surgeon's experience, blood loss and opening of the collecting system were the three predictors of postoperative complications.
Single‐port transvesical laparoscopic radical prostatectomy for organ‐confined prostate cancer: technique and outcomes
Authors: Gao Xin , Pang Jun , Si‐tu Jie , Luo Yun , Zhang Hao , Li Liao‐yuan , Zhang Yan
Published: May 2013

Objective

To report a novel technique for performing single‐port transvesical laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (STLRP) and to evaluate the oncological and functional outcomes in 16 patients with organ‐confined prostate cancer.

Patients and Methods

In total, 16 consecutive patients with clinical stage T1‐2aN0M0 were scheduled for STLRP, and their continence and erectile status were investigated preoperatively.

The patients' mean age was 62 years, mean prostate volume 42 mL and mean prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) 7.5 ng/mL.

The STLRP procedures were performed by a single surgeon, and all the operating procedures were conducted transvesically and laparoscopically.

Intra‐operative and postoperative complications, assessed according to the modified Clavien system, were recorded and peri‐operative and functional outcome data were analysed.

All patients were followed up for a minimum of 12 months postoperatively through PSA detection, daily pads, the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)‐6 score and urography.

Results

All of the 16 STLRP procedures were successfully completed. The mean (range) operation duration was 105 (75–180) min, and the mean (range) estimated blood loss was 130 (75–500) mL. No patients had positive surgical margins. Postoperative complications occurred in five patients, including three cases of urinary infection and two cases of haematuria (grade II). Catheters were removed after a mean (range) time of 11.2 (9–14) days with cystography. The mean (range) hospital stay was 12.7 (10–15) days.

Of the 16 patients, 13 were immediately continent (0 pads/day), and three had mild incontinence (2–3 pads/day) after catheter removal. All patients were observed as continent 3 months postoperatively.

In total, 10/16 and 12/16 patients achieved a satisfactory erection at 6 and 12 months follow‐up postoperatively, respectively, with an IIEF‐6 score ≥ 18.

The mean postoperative PSA levels at 3, 6 and 12 months were 0.015 ng/mL, 0.017 ng/mL and 0.016 ng/mL, respectively. No patients were identified with biochemical recurrence in this series. No patients demonstrated vesico‐urethral stricture during follow‐up for 12–24 months.

Conclusions

We conclude that STLRP is technically feasible for patients with low‐risk organ‐confined prostate cancer and demonstrates promising functional outcomes regarding continence and potency.
Biotinylated Cyclen‐Contained Cationic Lipids as Non‐Viral Gene Delivery Vectors
Authors: Liu Qiang , Yi Wen‐Jing , Zhang Yi‐Mei , Zhang Ji , Guo Liandi , Yu Xiao‐Qi
Published: May 2013

A series of 1, 4, 7, 10‐tetraazacyclododecane (cyclen)‐based cationic lipids, namely 5a–c bearing a biotin moiety and a variety of end groups (cholesterol, diosgenin, and α‐tocopherol) via biodegradable carbamate bond linkage were prepared and applied as non‐viral gene delivery vectors. The liposomes formed from 5 and dioleoylphosphatidylethanolamine could bind and condense plasmid DNA into nanoparticles with appropriate size and zeta potentials. All biotinylated cyclen cationic lipids showed higher cell viability than commercially available lipofectamine 2000 even at high N/P ratios, while their transfection efficiency was relatively lower. Further, results indicate that among the three lipids, α‐tocopherol‐containing compound 5c has higher DNA‐binding ability, lower cytotoxicity, and higher transfection efficiency. Transfection in two different cell lines revealed that these lipoplexes have higher gene delivery efficiency toward tumor cells.
Study of Binding Thermodynamics in the Optimization of BH3 Mimetics
Authors: Zhang Zhichao , Zhao Yan , Song Ting , Liu Yubo , Li Xiangqian , Su Pengchen , Xie Shenghui
Published: May 2013

The use of small molecule B‐cell lymphoma 2 homology domain 3 mimetics to neutralize the B‐cell lymphoma 2 protein is an attractive strategy for cancer treatment due to its ability to cause targeted cell apoptosis. We have previously reported the design and optimization of a series of B‐cell lymphoma 2 homology domain 3‐mimetics, called compounds 1–6. In this study, we evaluated the optimization of B‐cell lymphoma 2 homology domain 3‐mimetics from a thermodynamic perspective. Understanding the thermodynamic parameters of B‐cell lymphoma 2 homology domain 3‐mimetics plays a critical role in the development of B‐cell lymphoma 2 small‐molecule inhibitors. The thermodynamic parameters for the interactions of these compounds with the myeloid cell leukemia sequence 1 protein were obtained using isothermal titration calorimetry. Owing to compounds 1–6 overcoming enthalpy–entropy compensation, the affinities of them improved gradually. Toward binding to the myeloid cell leukemia sequence 1 protein, compound 6 was deemed optimal with an obtained Kd value of 238 nm, which is a 104‐fold improvement compared with 1. Analysis of the enthalpy and −TΔS efficiencies showed that ligand efficiencies with respect to molecular size are correlated with the enthalpic efficiencies. Notably, an enthalpy gain of 4.65 kcal/mol identified that an additional hydrogen bond is formed by 2 with myeloid cell leukemia sequence 1 compared with compound 1. For the first time, hydrogen bonding between a small‐molecule inhibitor of B‐cell lymphoma 2 was demonstrated experimentally.
Toward an Efficient Approach to Identify Molecular Scaffolds Possessing Selective or Promiscuous Compounds
Authors: Yongye Austin B. , Medina‐Franco José L.
Published: May 2013

The concept of a recurrent scaffold present in a series of structures is common in medicinal drug discovery. We present a scaffold analysis of compounds screened across 100 sequence‐unrelated proteins to identify scaffolds that drive promiscuity or selectivity. Selectivity and promiscuity play a major role in traditional and poly‐pharmacological drug design considerations. The collection employed here is the first publicly available data set containing the complete screening profiles of more than 15 000 compounds from different sources. In addition, no scaffold analysis of this data set has been reported. The protocol described here employs the Molecular Equivalence Index tool to facilitate the selection of Bemis–Murcko frameworks in the data set, which contain at least five compounds and Scaffold Hunter to generate a hierarchical tree of scaffolds. The annotation of the scaffold tree with protein‐binding profile data enabled the successful identification of mostly highly specific compounds, due to data set constraints. We also applied this approach to a public set of 1497 small molecules screened non‐uniformly across a panel of 172 protein kinases. The approach is general and can be applied to any other data sets and activity readout.
In-vivostimulation of macaque natural killer T cells with α-galactosylceramide
Authors: Fernandez C S , Jegaskanda S , Godfrey D I , Kent S J
Published: May 2013

Natural killer T cells are a potent mediator of anti-viral immunity in mice, but little is known about the effects of manipulating NKT cells in non-human primates. We evaluated the delivery of the NKT cell ligand, α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer), in 27 macaques by studying the effects of different dosing (1–100 μg), and delivery modes [directly intravenously (i.v.) or pulsed onto blood or peripheral blood mononuclear cells]. We found that peripheral NKT cells were depleted transiently from the periphery following α-GalCer administration across all delivery modes, particularly in doses of ≥10 μg. Furthermore, NKT cell numbers frequently remained depressed at i.v. α-GalCer doses of >10 μg. Levels of cytokine expression were also not enhanced after α-GalCer delivery to macaques. To evaluate the effects of α-GalCer administration on anti-viral immunity, we administered α-GalCer either together with live attenuated influenza virus infection or prior to simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infection of two macaques. There was no clear enhancement of influenza-specific T or B cell immunity following α-GalCer delivery. Further, there was no modulation of pathogenic SIVmac251 infection following α-GalCer delivery to a further two macaques in a pilot study. Accordingly, although macaque peripheral NKT cells are modulated by α-GalCer in vivo, at least for the dosing regimens tested in this study, this does not appear to have a significant impact on anti-viral immunity in macaque models.
Clinical and radiographic outcomes of a combined resective and regenerative approach in the treatment of peri‐implantitis: a prospective case series
Authors: Matarasso Sergio , Iorio Siciliano Vincenzo , Aglietta Marco , Andreuccetti Gianmaria , Salvi Giovanni E.
Published: May 2013

Aim

To assess the clinical and radiographic outcomes applying a combined resective and regenerative approach in the treatment of peri‐implantitis.

Materials and methods

Subjects with implants diagnosed with peri‐implantitis (i.e., pocket probing depth (PPD) ≥5 mm with concomitant bleeding on probing (BoP) and ≥2 mm of marginal bone loss or exposure of ≥1 implant thread) were treated by means of a combined approach including the application of a deproteinized bovine bone mineral and a collagen membrane in the intrabony and implantoplasty in the suprabony component of the peri‐implant lesion, respectively. The soft tissues were apically repositioned allowing for a non‐submerged healing. Clinical and radiographic parameters were evaluated at baseline and 12 months after treatment.

Results

Eleven subjects with 11 implants were treated and completed the 12‐month follow‐up. No implant was lost yielding a 100% survival rate. At baseline, the mean PPD and mean clinical attachment level (CAL) were 8.1 ± 1.8 mm and 9.7 ± 2.5 mm, respectively. After 1 year, a mean PPD of 4.0 ± 1.3 mm and a mean CAL of 6.7 ± 2.5 mm were assessed. The differences between the baseline and the follow‐up examinations were statistically significant (P = 0.001). The mucosal recession increased from 1.7 ± 1.5 at baseline to 3.0 ± 1.8 mm at the 12‐month follow‐up (P = 0.003). The mean% of sites with BoP+ around the selected implants decreased from 19.7 ± 40.1 at baseline to 6.1 ± 24.0 after 12 months (P = 0.032).

The radiographic marginal bone level decreased from 8.0 ± 3.7 mm at baseline to 5.2 ± 2.2 mm at the 12‐month follow‐up (P = 0.000001). The radiographic fill of the intrabony component of the defect amounted to 93.3 ± 13.0%.

Conclusion

Within the limits of this study, a combined regenerative and resective approach for the treatment of peri‐implant defects yielded positive outcomes in terms of PPD reduction and radiographic defect fill after 12 months.
UNDERSTANDING MEASURES OF NONMARITAL FERTILITY: THE ROLES OF MARRIAGE AND ACCESS TO HUMAN CAPITAL
Authors: GRAY JO ANNA , STONE JOE
Published: May 2013

This paper proposes an explanation for several decades of rising U.S. nonmarital birth rates and shares, and for cross‐sectional differences in black‐white fertility. Significantly, the explanation does not rely on changes over time or differences across races in individual fertility behavior. It is consistent with the rising nonmarital fertility measures observed in the United States since the mid‐1970s, higher measured fertility for unmarried blacks than whites, and differences across races in the timing of childbearing, despite nearly constant total fertility rates and increasingly similar target family sizes for blacks and whites. The explanation relies on a selection effect associated with changes in the marriage rate and on racial differences in access to human capital investment opportunities. We find strong support for the explanation using U.S. data over the period 1957–2002. Our findings suggest caution in interpreting the results of empirical studies of childbearing that examine marital and nonmarital fertility rates separately, as these studies typically ignore the selection effect of marriage. (JELJ12, J13, I38)
Psycho‐Social Factors Influencing Forest Conservation Intentions on the Agricultural Frontier
Authors: Mastrangelo Matías E. , Gavin Michael C. , Laterra Pedro , Linklater Wayne L. , Milfont Taciano L.
Published: May 2013

Remnant forest fragments are critical to conserve biological diversity yet these are lost rapidly in areas under agricultural expansion. Conservation planning and policy require a deeper understanding of the psycho‐social factors influencing landholders’ intentions towards conserving forest fragments. We surveyed 89 landholders in an agricultural frontier of the South American Gran Chaco and employed survey data to test three social psychological models: the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and two modified versions of it, one integrated to the Norm Activation Theory (TPB‐NAT) and one including the effect of identity (TPB‐NAT‐Identity). The TPB was the most parsimonious model and explained a large variance of conservation intentions (41%). Social norms and attitudes had the largest direct influence on intentions across the three models, and identity had a significant role in shaping social norms and attitudes. Interventions aimed at building social capital within landholder networks provide the best hope for influencing pro‐conservation norms.
When payments for environmental services will work for conservation
Authors: Wunder Sven
Published: May 2013

Using the article by Muradian et al. () as entry point, I develop a broader framework for the conditions needed to allow PES to emerge and function. It is argued that PES are designed as instruments with clear goals, and will function without markets, economic valuation, or commoditized services. As a highly adaptive management tool, PES are particularly suited for achieving equitable and flexible conservation outcomes. However, PES do require a payment culture and good organization from service users, a trustful negotiation climate, and well‐defined land‐ or resource‐tenure regimes for providers. These demanding preconditions may explain why PES implementation, while promising in many cases, has only spread slowly in low‐income countries.
Oceans at Rio+20
Authors: Campbell Lisa M. , Gray Noella J. , Fairbanks Luke W. , Silver Jennifer J. , Gruby Rebecca L.
Published: May 2013

In this article, we examine oceans outcomes from the Third United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (or Rio+20) in relation to how ocean problems and solutions were defined and by whom. We highlight the extent to which problem and solution definitions were shared among participants, in relation to three specific issues on the agenda at Rio+20: conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, small‐scale fisheries, and ocean acidification. We find that discussions about each of these issues reflect three challenges recognized as complicating oceans management: mismatches between ecological and governance scale, homogeneity among interest groups advocating for ocean conservation, and increased interest in both protection and exploitation of ocean resources. Overall, we found little evidence of constructive dialogue at Rio+20, where participants focused on advancing predefined positions, and we consider the implications of our analysis for ultimately addressing our three focal issues and for oceans management more generally.
Acute effect of brisk walking with graduated compression stockings on vascular endothelial function and oxidative stress
Authors: Okamoto Takanobu , Sakamaki‐Sunaga Mikako , Min Seokki , Miura Takashi , Iwasaki Tetsuji
Published: May 2013

The purpose of this study was to investigate the acute effect of brisk walking with and without graduated compression stockings (GCSs) on vascular endothelial function and oxidative stress. Ten young healthy subjects walked briskly for 30 min with (GCS trial) and without (CON trial) GCSs in a randomized crossover trial. Brachial artery flow‐mediated dilation (FMD) was measured as the per cent rise in the peak diameter from the baseline value at prior occlusion at each FMD measurement using B‐mode ultrasonography before and 30 min after walking in the two trials. Derivatives of reactive oxygen metabolites (d‐ROM), as an index of products of reactive oxygen species, and biological anti‐oxidant potential (BAP), as an index of anti‐oxidant potential, were also measured using a free radical elective evaluator before and 30 min after walking in both trials. FMD significantly decreased after brisk walking in both trials (P<0·05). However, FMD after brisk walking in the GCS trial was significantly higher than that in the CON trial (P<0·05). The d‐ROM did not change before and after both trials, whereas the BAP significantly increased after walking in the GCS trial (P<0·05). These findings demonstrate that brisk walking while wearing GCSs suppresses the decrease in FMD and increases BAP.
Hypophosphatemia as a prognostic value in acute exacerbation of COPD
Authors: Farah Raymond , Khamisy‐farah Rola , Arraf Zaher , Jacobson Larisa , Makhoul Nicola
Published: May 2013

Background

Phosphorus (P) is an essential element in all living cells, it is extremely important in the process of production of adenosine triphosphate, main element in the structure of nucleic acids. Low levels of phosphorus in blood is very rare, however, it may be caused by unbalance between components participating in phosphorus cycle and affect performances of several systems. A low level of phosphorus in the blood increases the exacerbation and the severity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and requires prolonged ventilation process.

Aim

This study aims to examine the prognostic effects of hypophosphatemia in COPD patients and evaluate the correlation between phosphorus levels and severity, recurrences of attacks, ventilation duration and successful of weaning process.

Methods

Two hundred and fifty‐five patients who were admitted because of worsening in COPD, from October 2010–April 2011, were examined. A comparison was made between the group with normal blood phosphorus (2.5–4.5 mg%), group of patients with low phosphorus (2–2.5 mg%) and group with very low phosphorous values (<2.0 mg%).

Results

Ninety‐five per cent of all admissions had normal blood phosphorus levels, 3.3% had low phosphorus levels, and only 1.7% of all admissions had very low phosphorus levels. 2.4% of patients had both low levels of phosphorus and potassium. All patients (100%) with very low phosphorus needed mechanical ventilation, compared to 62.5% of patients with low phosphorus and 16.9% of patients with normal phosphorus levels. In addition, 16 ventilated patients (33% of all ventilated patients) had low potassium values.

Low blood phosphorus levels contribute to an increase in: COPD flare‐up, need for ventilation, duration of hospitalisation, days in intensive care units and finally increased rate of mortality. Accordingly, close monitoring and careful adjustment of disorders correlated to electrolyte such as phosphorus, are crucial and may improve prognosis and also increase the survival rate of patients with COPD.
Crystalloid flush with backward unclamping may decrease post‐reperfusion cardiac arrest and improve short‐term graft function when compared to portal blood flush with forward unclamping during liver transplantation
Authors: Fukazawa Kyota , Nishida Seigo , Hibi Taizo , Pretto Ernesto A.
Published: May 2013

During liver transplant (LT), the release of vasoactive substances into the systemic circulation is associated with severe hemodynamic instability that is injurious to the recipient and/or the post‐ischemic graft. Crystalloid flush with backward unclamping (CB) and portal blood flush with forward unclamping (PF) are two reperfusion methods to reduce reperfusion‐related cardiovascular perturbations in our center. The primary aim of this study was to compare these two methods. After institutional review board (IRB) approval, cadaveric whole LT cases performed between 2003 and 2008 were reviewed. Patients were divided into two groups based on reperfusion methods: CB or PF. After background matching with propensity score, the effect of each method on post‐operative graft function was assessed in detail. In our cohort of 478 patients, CB was used in 313 grafts and PF in 165. Thirty‐day graft survival was lower, and risk of retransplantation was higher in PF. Multivariable model showed that CB is an independent factor to reduce primary non‐function, cardiac arrest and improve 30‐d graft survival. Also, the incidence of ischemic‐type biliary lesions was significantly higher in the PF group. Reperfusion methods affect intraoperative hemodynamics and post‐transplant outcome. CB allows for control over temperature and composition of the perfusate, perfusion pressure, and the rate of infusion.
The effects of wood on stream habitat and native fish assemblages inNewZealand
Authors: Baillie Brenda R. , Hicks Brendan J. , van den Heuvel Michael R. , Kimberley Mark O. , Hogg Ian D.
Published: May 2013

Historic deforestation has deprived many river systems of their natural wood loadings. To study the effects of the loss of wood from waterways, a field trial was conducted in three small forested streams inNewZealand. The objectives were to (i) examine differences in fish assemblages among wooded pools (where wood provided cover), open pools and riffles and (ii) measure the effects of wood removal on channel morphology and fish assemblages. In the first part of the study, no significant differences were found in total fish density among the three habitats. However, total fish biomass was significantly higher in wooded pools (64% of total fish biomass) compared with open pools and riffles. Mean density and biomass of banded kokopu (Galaxias fasciatus) and mean biomass of longfin eel (Anguilla dieffenbachii) were highest in wooded pools, whereas the density and biomass of bluegill bully (Gobiomorphus hubbsi) and torrentfish (Cheimarrichthys fosteri) were highest in riffles. In the second part of the study, wood was removed from a 200‐m section (treatment) in each stream, significantly reducing pool area and increasing the proportion of channel area and length in riffles. At the habitat scale, banded kokopu and large longfin eel were the two species mostly affected by wood removal. At the reach scale, banded kokopu biomass was significantly lower in the treatment sections. Although wooded pools were a small portion of total habitat, they provided important habitat for two ofNewZealand's larger native fish taxa.
Comparison of Quantitative and Qualitative Research Traditions: epistemological, theoretical, and methodological differences
Authors: Yilmaz Kaya
Published: May 2013

There has been much discussion about quantitative and qualitative approaches to research in different disciplines. In the behavioural and social sciences, these two paradigms are compared to reveal their relative strengths and weaknesses. But the debate about both traditions has commonly taken place in academic books. It is hard to find an article that deals with the generic issues related to the quantitative and qualitative divide by drawing on distinguished research literature. Interested in addressing this need, this article aims to explain the essential characteristics of quantitative and qualitative research approaches with an emphasis on their underlying epistemological, theoretical, and methodological differences. It elucidates the research design issues and concepts in relation to both research paradigms, from planning research to collecting and analyzing data, and reporting findings. The criteria that are used to evaluate research strategies and findings are also discussed.
The Role of Diverse Institutions in Framing Adult Learning Systems
Authors: Saar Ellu , Ure Odd Bjørn , Desjardins Richard
Published: May 2013

This article considers the role of diverse institutions in framing adult learning systems. The focus is on institutional characteristics and configurations in different countries and their potential impact on the extent of adult learning, as well as on inequalities in access to adult learning. Typologies of education and training systems as well as labour market and welfare systems are introduced in relation to specific particularities relevant to adult learning. An emphasis is placed on how institutions that are interwoven into several systems are relevant to adult learning. This is then considered and elaborated in the context of post‐Socialist countries in order to highlight important nuances that are relevant to adult learning and skill formation systems.
Participation Patterns in Adult Education: the role of institutions and public policy frameworks in resolving coordination problems
Authors: Desjardins Richard , Rubenson Kjell
Published: May 2013

This article focuses on evidence regarding cross‐national patterns of participation in adult education and an interpretation of these patterns from an institutional and public policy perspective. The interpretation follows from the perspective that sustaining high and widely distributed levels of investment in the development and maintenance of skills over the lifespan of individuals is to a large extent interconnected with a high‐level of non‐market coordination via institutional arrangements and/or specific public policy measures. Such arrangements and measures are seen to alleviate coordination problems that otherwise lead to underinvestment in skills and/or inequity in the distribution of access to education and training and hence skills. Consequently, it is argued that institutional contexts and public policy measures condition participation patterns in adult education, and are thus worthwhile to understand better for the purposes of informing policy.
A real‐time eco‐evolutionary dead‐end strategy is mediated by the traits of lineage progenitors and interactions with colony invaders
Authors: Pruitt Jonathan N.
Published: May 2013

Evolutionary dead‐end strategies are characterized by short‐term productivity benefits and long‐term evolutionary costs. Here, I detail a real‐time dead‐end strategy associated with the behavioural traits of lineage progenitors in the social spider Anelosimus studiosus. Specifically, colony lineages founded by docile spiders were eight times more likely to suffer extinction, despite their superior reproductive output. However, when inquilines were experimentally removed from progenitor colonies, differences in extinction probability among lineages vanished. Similarly, among lineages founded by purely docile or aggressive individuals, the descendants of lineages with the highest reproductive output suffered the lowest survivorship, whereas lineages founded by a mixture of docile/aggressive lacked such a trade‐off. Finally, lineages with shorter progenitor‐descendant distances gained more inquilines and their descendants had lower survivorship, relative to more diffuse lineages. Overall, this study demonstrates how the traits of lineage progenitors and species interactions can unite to determine the fates of entire lineages.