bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long non‐coding RNA OIP5‐AS1 promotes proliferation of lung cancer cells and leads to poor prognosis by targeting miR‐378a‐3p
Authors: Wang Maolong , Sun Xiao , Yang Yuling , Jiao Wenjie
Published: June 2018

Background

The antisense of the OIP5‐AS1 gene is a long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) that is reported to be upregulated and promotes cell proliferation in multiple human cancers; however, its function in lung cancer is unknown. We investigated the regulatory function and underlying mechanisms of OIP5‐AS1 in lung cancer.

Methods

OIP5‐AS1 and microRNA (miR)‐378a‐3p expression were assayed by quantitative real‐time PCR, and proliferation‐related protein expression was measured by Western blotting. Cell viability was detected using methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium assay. Luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation were used to detect the direct regulation of miR‐378a‐3p by OIP5‐AS1. Nude mice were used to test the function of OIP5‐AS1 in vivo.

Results

OIP5‐AS1 was highly expressed in lung cancer tissues and was correlated with tumor size and tumor growth speed. OIP5‐AS1 overexpression increased lung cancer cell proliferation in vitro. Further investigation revealed that OIP5‐AS1 functions as a competing endogenous RNA of miR‐378a‐3p. MiR‐378a‐3p overexpression inhibited cell proliferation and caused proliferation‐associated proteins CDK4 and CDK6 to decrease in A549 cells. Overexpression of wild type OIP5‐AS1 led to strong CDK4 and CDK6 expression; however, these two proteins did not change when mutated OIP5‐AS1 was upregulated. Finally, in vivo assay showed that the speed of tumor growth was increased and decreased when OIP5‐AS1 was upregulated and downregulated, respectively.

Conclusion

Our results revealed that OIP5‐AS1 acts as a growth‐promoting lncRNA in lung cancer by suppressing miR‐378a‐3p function. OIP5‐AS1 and miR‐378a‐3p interaction may provide a potential target for lung cancer treatment.
Do Accounting Firm Consulting Revenues Affect Audit Quality? Evidence from the Pre‐ and Post‐SOX Eras
Authors: Lisic Ling Lei , Myers Linda A. , Pawlewicz Robert , Seidel Timothy A.
Published: June 2018

In recent years, public accounting firms have experienced a steady increase in the proportion of their revenues generated from consulting services. Although growth in consulting revenue following the Sarbanes‐Oxley Act (SOX) has been generated primarily from services provided to nonaudit clients, regulators have expressed concerns about the potential implications of this increase for audit quality. In contrast, accounting firms assert that the expertise developed by their consulting professionals helps them to provide better quality audits. We examine the relation between the proportion of accounting firm consulting revenue to total revenue and audit quality and investor perceptions of audit quality. Because SOX drastically altered the source of consulting revenues for public accounting firms, we also separately examine these relations in the pre‐ and post‐SOX eras. We find evidence suggesting that before SOX, higher proportions of audit firm consulting revenues negatively impacted both audit quality and investor perceptions of audit quality. However, we do not find a statistically significant association between audit firm consulting revenues and either audit quality or investor perceptions of audit quality following SOX. Our analyses suggest that even if these relations exist following SOX, the potential economic magnitude of the effect is small.
A Linearization of the Portfolio Optimization Problem with General Risk Measures Under Multivariate Conditional Heteroskedastic Models
Authors: Huang Shih‐Feng , Lin Tze‐Yun
Published: June 2018

This study presents an example of the linearization of a complex mean‐risk investment problem. The spectral risk measure is employed as a measure of risk and assets are assumed to have autocorrelation and conditionally heteroskedastic volatilities. Simulation results indicate that the proposed method saves a great deal of computational time. Empirical studies show that this strategy, implemented with certain trading frequency constraints, outperforms the equal‐weighted portfolio, the classical mean‐variance method, and the corresponding market index in Taiwan, the US, and Japan when considering transaction costs and different economic conditions.
Above average increases in body fat from 9 to 15 years of age had a negative impact on academic performance, independent of physical activity
Authors: Sævarsson Elvar Smari , Gudmundsdottir Sigridur Lara , Kantomaa Marko , Arngrimsson Sigurbjorn A. , Sveinsson Thorarinn , Skulason Sigurgrimur , Johannsson Erlingur
Published: June 2018

Aim

The associations between body fat levels and physical activity with academic performance are inconclusive and were explored using longitudinal data.

Methods

We enrolled 134/242 adolescents aged 15, who were studied at the age of nine and agreed to be followed up from April to May 2015 for the Health behaviours of Icelandic youth study. Accelerometers measured physical activity, body mass indexes (BMI) were calculated and dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry scans assessed the participants’ body composition at nine and 15. Their language and maths skills were compared to a growth model that estimated the academic performances of children born in 1999.

Results

Higher than normal body fat levels between the ages of nine and 15 were negatively associated with maths performance, but the same association was not found for Icelandic language studies. These were Pearson's r = −0.24 (p = 0.01) for BMI and Pearson's r = −0.34 (p = 0.01) for the percentage of body fat. No associations were found with changes in physical activity.

Conclusion

Children who put on more body fat than normal between the ages of nine and 15 had an increased risk of adverse academic performance that was independent of changes in physical activity.
Coronary artery hypoxic vasorelaxation is augmented by perivascular adipose tissue through a mechanism involving hydrogen sulphide and cystathionine‐β‐synthase
Authors: Donovan J. , Wong P. S. , Garle M. J. , Alexander S. P. H. , Dunn W. R. , Ralevic V.
Published: June 2018

Aim

Hypoxia causes vasodilatation of coronary arteries which protects the heart from ischaemic damage through mechanisms including the generation of hydrogen sulphide (H2S), but the influence of the perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) and myocardium is incompletely understood. This study aimed to determine whether PVAT and the myocardium modulate the coronary artery hypoxic response and whether this involves hydrogen sulphide.

Methods

Porcine left circumflex coronary arteries were prepared as cleaned segments and with PVAT intact, myocardium intact or both PVAT and myocardium intact, and contractility investigated using isometric tension recording. Immunoblotting was used to measure levels of H2S‐synthesizing enzymes: cystathionine‐β‐synthase (CBS), cystathionine γ‐lyase (CSE) and 3‐mercaptopyruvate sulphurtransferase (MPST).

Results

All three H2S‐synthesizing enzymes were detected in the artery and myocardium, but only CBS and MPST were detected in PVAT. Hypoxia elicited a biphasic response in cleaned artery segments consisting of transient contraction followed by prolonged relaxation. In arteries with PVAT intact, hypoxic contraction was attenuated and relaxation augmented. In arteries with myocardium intact, hypoxic contraction was attenuated, but relaxation was unaffected. In replacement experiments, replacement of dissected PVAT and myocardium attenuated artery contraction and augmented relaxation to hypoxia, mimicking the effect of in situ PVAT and indicating involvement of a diffusible factor(s). In arteries with intact PVAT, augmentation of hypoxic relaxation was reversed by amino‐oxyacetate (CBS inhibitor), but not DL‐propargylglycine (CSE inhibitor) or aspartate (inhibits MPST pathway).

Conclusion

PVAT augments hypoxic relaxation of coronary arteries through a mechanism involving H2S and CBS, pointing to an important role in regulation of coronary blood flow during hypoxia.
The United States opioid epidemic: a review of the surgeon's contribution to it and health policy initiatives
Authors: Theisen Katherine , Jacobs Bruce , Macleod Liam , Davies Benjamin
Published: June 2018

Opioid abuse and addiction is causing widespread devastation in communities across the USA and resulting in significant strain on our healthcare system. There is increasing evidence that prescribers are at least partly responsible for the opioid crisis because of overprescribing, a practice that developed from changes in policy and reimbursement structures. Surgeons, specifically, have been subject to scrutiny as ‘adequate treatment’ of post‐surgical pain is poorly defined and data suggest that many patients receive much larger opioid prescriptions than needed. The consequences of overprescribing include addiction and misuse, dispersion of opioids into the community, and possible potentiation of illicit drug/heroin use. Several solutions to this crisis are currently being enacted with variable success, including Prescription Drug Monitoring Programmes, policy‐level interventions aimed to de‐incentivize overprescribing, limiting opioid exposures through Enhanced Recovery After Surgery protocols, and the novel idea of creating surgery‐ and/or procedure‐specific prescribing guidelines. This problem is likely to require not one, but several potential solutions to reverse its trajectory. It is critical, however, that we as physicians and prescribers find a way to stop the needless overprescribing while still treating postoperative pain appropriately.
Role of caveolin‐1 in hepatocellular carcinoma arising from non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Takeda Makoto , Sakaguchi Takanori , Hiraide Takanori , Shibasaki Yasushi , Morita Yoshifumi , Kikuchi Hirotoshi , Ikegami Koji , Setou Mitsutoshi , Konno Hiroyuki , Takeuchi Hiroya
Published: June 2018

The molecular features of hepatocellular carcinoma arising from non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD‐HCC) are not well known. In this study, we investigated the mechanism by which NAFLD‐HCC survives in a fat‐rich environment. We found that caveolin (CAV)‐1 was overexpressed in clinical specimens from NAFLD‐HCC patients. HepG2, HLE, and HuH‐7 HCC cell lines showed decreased proliferation in the presence of the saturated fatty acids palmitic acid and stearic acid, although only HLE cells expressed high levels of CAV‐1. HLE cells treated with oleic acid (OA) showed robust proliferation, whereas CAV‐null HepG2 cells showed reduced proliferation and increased apoptosis. CAV‐1 knockdown in HLE cells attenuated the OA‐induced increase in proliferation and enhanced apoptosis. Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry analysis revealed that the levels of OA‐containing ceramide, a pro‐apoptotic factor, were higher in HepG2 and CAV‐1‐deficient HLE cells than in HLE cells, suggesting that CAV‐1 inhibits apoptosis by decreasing the level of OA‐containing ceramide. These results indicate that CAV‐1 is important for NAFLD‐HCC survival in fatty acid‐rich environments and is a potential therapeutic target.
Reasoning About the Scope of Religious Norms: Evidence From Hindu and Muslim Children in India
Authors: Srinivasan Mahesh , Kaplan Elizabeth , Dahl Audun
Published: June 2018

Conflicts arise when members of one religion apply their norms to members of another religion. Two studies explored how one hundred 9‐ to 15‐year‐old Hindu and Muslim children from India reason about the scope of religious norms. Both Hindus and Muslims from a diverse Hindu–Muslim school (Study 1) and Hindus from a homogeneous Hindu school (Study 2) more often judged it wrong for Hindus to violate Hindu norms, compared to Muslim norms, and said the opposite for Muslims. In contrast, children judged it wrong for both Hindus and Muslims to harm others. Thus, even in a setting marred by religious conflict, children can restrict the scope of a religion's norms to members of that religion, providing a basis for peaceful coexistence.
Effects of 6 months supervised physical training on muscle strength and aerobic capacity in patients undergoing Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass surgery: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mundbjerg L. H. , Stolberg C. R. , Bladbjerg E.‐M. , Funch‐Jensen P. , Juhl C. B. , Gram B.
Published: June 2018

Obesity and physical inactivity are major health problems. Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery results in significant weight loss and reduces obesity‐related morbidity and mortality. Physical activity lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease and premature death. The aims of this study were to elucidate the effects of RYGB followed by 6 months of supervised physical training on physical capacity. In a randomized controlled trial, 60 participants eligible for RYGB were randomized 6 months post‐surgery to either two weekly physical training sessions for 26 weeks (INT) or a control group (CON). Aerobic capacity (VO2max), muscle strength (MS) of the shoulder and hip and physical function were measured pre‐surgery and 6, 12 and 24 months post‐surgery. RYGB per se decreased MS in all tested muscle groups, had no effects on VO2max but improved physical function. After the intervention, INT had a significant 0.33 L min−1 increase in VO2max compared to CON (95% CI: 0.07–0.57, P = 0.013). Furthermore, MS in the hip adductor increased significantly with 13 N (95% CI: 3.6–22.4, P = 0.007) and a between‐group difference was found in the Stair Climb Test (0.46 repetitions [95% CI: 0.02–0.91, P = 0.042]). The effects were not maintained at follow‐up. Supervised physical training following RYGB improved VO2max, hip MS and physical function, but the positive effects were not maintained at follow‐up. While activities of daily life may become easier as a result of RYGB, the observed extensive post‐operative loss of MS requires more attention to increase the patient's physical capacity prospectively.
Consumption of artificial sweetened beverages associated with adiposity and increasing HbA1c in Hispanic youth
Authors: Davis J. N. , Asigbee F. M. , Markowitz A. K. , Landry M. J. , Vandyousefi S. , Khazaee E. , Ghaddar R. , Goran M. I.
Published: June 2018

Research examining the impact of artificial sweetened beverages (ASBs) on obesity and metabolic diseases in adolescents is limited. The overall goal is to examine the longitudinal effects of ASBs on changes in adiposity and metabolic parameters in Hispanic adolescents. Longitudinal cohort with 98 Hispanics (12–18 years) who were overweight or had obesity with the following data at baseline and 1‐year later: anthropometrics, diet (24‐h recalls), body composition (DXA), glucose and insulin dynamics (oral glucose tolerance and frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance test) and fasting lipids. Repeated measures analyses of covariance assessed changes over time between control (no ASBs at either visit), ASB initiators (no ASBs at baseline/ASBs at 1‐year) and chronic ASB consumers (ASBs at both visits). ASB initiators (n = 14) and chronic ASB consumers (n = 9) compared to control (n = 75) had higher total body fat at baseline and 1‐year (P = 0.05 for group effect). Chronic ASB consumers had a 6% increase in haemoglobin A1c, 34% increase in energy intake (kcal d−1) and 39% increase in carbohydrate intake (g d−1) over time, while control and ASB initiators maintained (P < 0.05 for group‐by‐time interactions). These results do not support promoting ASBs as a strategy for adiposity loss or to improve metabolic health.
Targeted gene flow and rapid adaptation in an endangered marsupial
Authors: Kelly Ella , Phillips Ben L.
Published: June 2018

Targeted gene flow is an emerging conservation strategy. It involves translocating individuals with favorable genes to areas where they will have a conservation benefit. The applications for targeted gene flow are wide‐ranging but include preadapting native species to the arrival of invasive species. The endangered carnivorous marsupial, the northern quoll (Dasyurus hallucatus), has declined rapidly since the introduction of the cane toad (Rhinella marina), which fatally poisons quolls that attack them. There are, however, a few remaining toad‐invaded quoll populations in which the quolls survive because they know not to eat cane toads. It is this toad‐smart behavior we hope to promote through targeted gene flow. For targeted gene flow to be feasible, however, toad‐smart behavior must have a genetic basis. To assess this, we used a common garden experiment, comparing offspring from toad‐exposed and toad‐naïve parents raised in identical environments, to determine whether toad‐smart behavior is heritable. Offspring from toad‐exposed populations were substantially less likely to eat toads than those with toad‐naïve parents. Hybrid offspring showed similar responses to quolls with 2 toad‐exposed parents, indicating the trait may be dominant. Together, these results suggest a heritable trait and rapid adaptive response in a small number of toad‐exposed populations. Although questions remain about outbreeding depression, our results are encouraging for targeted gene flow. It should be possible to introduce toad‐smart behavior into soon to be affected quoll populations.
Effectiveness of information and communication technologies interventions to increase mental health literacy: A systematic review
Authors: Tay Jing Ling , Tay Yi Fen , Klainin‐Yobas Piyanee
Published: June 2018

Aim

Most mental health conditions affect adolescent and young adults. The onset of many mental disorders occurs in the young age. This is a critical period to implement interventions to enhance mental health literacy (MHL) and to prevent the occurrence of mental health problems. This systematic review examined the effectiveness of information and communication technologies interventions on MHL (recognition of conditions, stigma and help‐seeking).

Methods

The authors searched for both published and unpublished studies.

Results

Nineteen studies were included with 9 randomized controlled trials and 10 quasi‐experimental studies. Informational interventions were useful to enhance MHL of less‐known disorders such as anxiety disorder and anorexia, but not depression. Interventions that were effective in enhancing depression MHL comprised active component such as videos or quizzes. Interventions that successfully elevated MHL also reduced stigma. Elevated MHL levels did not improve help‐seeking, and reduction in stigma levels did not enhance help‐seeking behaviours.

Conclusions

Future good quality, large‐scale, multi‐sites randomized controlled trials are necessary to evaluate MHL interventions.
Relative importance of competition and plant–soil feedback, their synergy, context dependency and implications for coexistence
Authors: Lekberg Ylva , Bever James D. , Bunn Rebecca A. , Callaway Ragan M. , Hart Miranda M. , Kivlin Stephanie N. , Klironomos John , Larkin Beau G. , Maron John L. , Reinhart Kurt O. , Remke Michael , van der Putten Wim H.
Published: June 2018

Plants interact simultaneously with each other and with soil biota, yet the relative importance of competition vs. plant–soil feedback (PSF) on plant performance is poorly understood. Using a meta‐analysis of 38 published studies and 150 plant species, we show that effects of interspecific competition (either growing plants with a competitor or singly, or comparing inter‐ vs. intraspecific competition) and PSF (comparing home vs. away soil, live vs. sterile soil, or control vs. fungicide‐treated soil) depended on treatments but were predominantly negative, broadly comparable in magnitude, and additive or synergistic. Stronger competitors experienced more negative PSF than weaker competitors when controlling for density (inter‐ to intraspecific competition), suggesting that PSF could prevent competitive dominance and promote coexistence. When competition was measured against plants growing singly, the strength of competition overwhelmed PSF, indicating that the relative importance of PSF may depend not only on neighbour identity but also density. We evaluate how competition and PSFs might interact across resource gradients; PSF will likely strengthen competitive interactions in high resource environments and enhance facilitative interactions in low‐resource environments. Finally, we provide a framework for filling key knowledge gaps and advancing our understanding of how these biotic interactions influence community structure.
Effect of valproic acid on perampanel pharmacokinetics in patients with epilepsy
Authors: Contin Manuela , Bisulli Francesca , Santucci Margherita , Riva Roberto , Tonon Francesca , Mohamed Susan , Ferri Lorenzo , Stipa Carlotta , Tinuper Paolo ,   the Perampanel Study Group
Published: June 2018

We prospectively examined the effect of antiepileptic (AED) cotherapy on steady state plasma concentrations of perampanel (PMP) in epileptic patients. We classified AEDs as strong enzyme inducers (carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, oxcarbazepine), not strong enzyme inducers/not inhibitors (levetiracetam, lamotrigine, topiramate, rufinamide, lacosamide, zonisamide, clobazam), and enzyme inhibitors (valproic acid [VPA]). The main outcome was the comparison of PMP plasma concentration to weight‐adjusted dose ratio (C/D; [μg/mL]/mg kg−1 d−1) among comedication subgroups. From 79 patients (42 females, 37 males) aged (mean ± standard deviation) 33 ± 13 years (range = 12‐66 years), 114 plasma samples were collected. Twenty‐eight patients (44 samples) were cotreated with enzyme inducers (group A), 21 (27 samples) with not strong enzyme inducers/not inhibitors (group B), 21 (31 samples) with not strong enzyme inducers/not inhibitors + VPA (group C), and 9 (12 samples) with enzyme inducers + VPA (group D). PMP C/D was reduced (−56%, P < .001) in group A (1.79 ± 0.80) versus group B (4.05 ± 2.16) and increased (P < .001) in group C (6.72 ± 4.04) compared with groups A (+275%), B (+66%), and D (2.76 ± 2.00, +143%). Our study documents the unpublished higher PMP C/D in patients cotreated with VPA. These findings have both theoretical relevance, suggesting better characterization of PMP metabolic pathways with ad hoc studies, and clinical usefulness in managing patients on AED polytherapy.
Phenobarbital population pharmacokinetics across the pediatric age spectrum
Authors: Moffett Brady S. , Weingarten Mindl M. , Galati Marianne , Placencia Jennifer L. , Rodman Emily A. , Riviello James J. , Kayyal Simon Y.
Published: June 2018

Objective

Phenobarbital is frequently used in pediatric patients for treatment and prophylaxis of seizures. Pharmacokinetic data for this patient population is lacking and would assist in dosing decisions.

Methods

A retrospective population pharmacokinetic analysis was designed for all pediatric patients <19 years of age initiated on phenobarbital at our institution from January 2011 to June 2017. Patients were included if they were initiated on intravenous or enteral phenobarbital for treatment or prophylaxis of seizures and had a serum phenobarbital concentration monitored while an inpatient. Data collection included the following: age, weight, height, gestational age, core body temperature, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, aspartase aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, urine output over the prior 12 hours, phenobarbital doses and serum concentrations, and potential drug–drug interactions. Descriptive statistical methods were used to summarize the data. Pharmacokinetic analysis was performed with NONMEM and simulation was performed for doses of 10, 20, 30, and 40 mg kg−1 dose−1, iv, followed by enteral doses of 3, 4, 5, and 6 mg kg−1 d−1.

Results

A total of 355 patients (50.3% male, median gestational age 39 weeks (interquartile range [IQR] 35, 40), median age 0.28 years (IQR 0.06, 0.82). Median phenobarbital dose was enteral = 2.6 (IQR 1.9, 3.9) mg kg−1 dose−1; intravenous = 2.6 (IQR 2.2, 4.9) mg kg−1 dose−1) and mean serum concentration was 41.1 ± 23.9 mg/L at median 6.5 (IQR 2.9, 11.1) hours after a dose. A one‐compartment proportional error model best fit the data where clearance and volume of distribution were allometrically scaled using fat‐free mass. Significant covariates included serum creatinine, postmenstrual age, and drug–drug interactions on clearance, and age in years on volume of distribution.

Significance

Phenobarbital dosing of 30 mg kg−1 dose−1,iv, followed by 4 mg kg−1 d−1 had the highest probability of attaining a therapeutic concentration at 7 days. Postmenstrual age and drug–drug interactions should be incorporated into dosing decisions.
Postural sway normative data across the adult lifespan: Results from 6280 individuals on the Balance Tracking System balance test
Authors: Goble Daniel J , Baweja Harsimran S
Published: June 2018

Aim

Postural sway measured using force plate technology is a known risk factor for falls in older adults, but is currently underutilized due to the high cost and lack of portability issues associated with most force plate systems. The Balance Tracking System (BTrackS) is a new force plate that alleviates these barriers and has potential for widespread use. The present study provides important normative data for the BTrackS Balance Test of postural sway that improves its translational value to the field of gerontology.

Methods

BTrackS Balance Test postural sway results were accumulated from 6280 community‐dwelling individuals across the adult lifespan. Data were assessed for effects of age, sex and body size. Stratified percentile rankings were then calculated.

Results

BTrackS Balance Test results were dependent on age and sex, but not body size. Percentile rankings were, therefore, determined across various age groups for men and women separately, with no consideration of participant body size. A novel interaction was found between the age and sex factors, suggesting enhanced postural sway ability for women that becomes more pronounced with older age.

Conclusions

The results of the present study represent one of the largest sets of normative postural sway data ever published. These data translate directly into the field of gerontology as a tool for determining abnormalities in postural sway, which have been linked to various poor outcomes in older adults, such as high fall risk. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 1225–1229.
Emergency surgery in octogenarians: Outcomes and factors affecting mortality in the general hospital setting
Authors: Bolger Jarlath C , Zaidi Akif , Fuentes‐Bonachera Adrian , Kelly Michael E , Abbas Aqeel , Rogers Ailin , McCormack Tom , Waldron Brian , Murray Kevin P
Published: June 2018

Aim

The Western world has an expanding older population, who are living longer with increasing numbers of comorbidities. In addition, expectations of patients and relatives are increasing. As a general hospital operating in a rural setting, our University Hospital Kerry, Tralee, Ireland, deals with a significant number of emergency presentations to the acute surgical service. The aim of the present study was to examine outcomes for patients in the extremes of age who present requiring emergency surgical procedures.

Methods

A retrospective review of theater and admission logs was carried out to identify all emergency surgeries from January 2008 to December 2015. All patients aged >80 years at the time of surgery were identified. Details of surgery were recorded, in addition to biochemical and hematological data, use of intensive care unit, length of stay and mortality.

Results

In total, 128 octogenarians underwent an emergency surgery. The average patient age was 84.3 years (range 80–94 years). The commonest procedures were laparotomy (65%, n = 84), repair of strangulated/incarcerated hernia (18%, n = 23) and laparoscopic procedures (16%, n = 21). The 30‐day all‐cause mortality was 22.6%. On multivariate analysis, American Society of Anesthesia status and intensive care unit utilization predicted mortality (P = 0.04 and 0.05, respectively). A total of 82 patients required intensive care unit admission, with an average length of stay of 4.8 days, using 484 bed days in total.

Conclusions

Emergency surgery in octogenarians is a significant part of the workload of general surgeons. Poor baseline status is associated with an increased risk of mortality. Emergency surgery in older adults only utilizes a fraction of available intensive care unit resources. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 1211–1214.
Comparison of Ultrafine Powder Pellet and Flux‐free Fusion Glass for Bulk Analysis of Granitoids by Laser Ablation‐Inductively Coupled Plasma‐Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Wu Shitou , Karius Volker , Schmidt Burkhard C. , Simon Klaus , Wörner Gerhard
Published: June 2018

Two sample preparation techniques (ultrafine powder pellet and flux‐free fusion glass) for LA‐ICP‐MS bulk analysis of granitoids were compared. Ultrafine powder particles produced by wet milling were characterised as d50: ~ 1.0 μm, d90: ~ 5.0 μm. Agate abrasion (balls and vial) during wet milling affects only SiO2 measurements and is negligible for other elements. For the flux‐free fusion glass, a second grinding of the initial fused glass and re‐melting were necessary to produce compositionally homogeneous glasses. Nickel and Cu can be contaminated during the fusion procedure, and Sn and Pb were depleted after the melting process. The homogeneity of fusion glasses was comparable to that of MPI‐DING glasses, while the powder pellets were less homogeneous. This heterogeneity is ascribed to large (up to 10 μm) crystal fragments (e.g., biotite) persisting in powders even after 45 min of milling. For most elements of interest, both preparation techniques give reliable LA‐ICP‐MS results of granitoid reference materials within 10% of the reference values. Thus, we can recommend both techniques to avoid common problems associated with acid dissolution ICP‐MS. For high‐precision measurements (especially Zr, Hf, Th and U), the flux‐free fusion glass technique is a better choice than ultrafine powder pellets.
Modeling Stream‐Aquifer Interactions Under Seasonal Groundwater Pumping and Managed Aquifer Recharge
Authors: Lee Hyeonju , Koo Min‐Ho , Oh Sebong
Published: June 2018

In South Korea, a significant amount of groundwater is used for the heating of water‐curtain insulated greenhouses during the winter dry season, which had led to problems of groundwater depletion. A managed aquifer recharge (MAR) project is currently underway with the goal of preventing such groundwater depletion in a typical cultivation area, located on an alluvial aquifer near the Nam River. In the present study, FEFLOW, a three‐dimensional finite element model, was used to evaluate different strategies for MAR of the cultivation areas. A conceptual model was developed to simulate the stream‐aquifer dynamics under the influence of seasonal groundwater pumping and MAR. The optimal rates and duration of MAR were assessed by analyzing the recovery of the groundwater levels and the change in the groundwater temperature. The simulation results indicate that a MAR rate of 8000 m3/d effectively restores the groundwater level when the injection wells are located inside the groundwater depletion area. It is also demonstrated that starting the MAR before the beginning of the seasonal pumping is more effective. Riverbank filtration is preferable for securing the injection water owing to plentiful source of induced recharge from the river. Locating the pumping wells adjacent to the river where there are thick permeable layers could be a good strategy for minimizing decreases in the groundwater level and temperature.
Groundwater Level Analysis Using Regional Kendall Test for Trend with Spatial Autocorrelation
Authors: Fang Chuanglin , Sun Siao , Jia Shaofeng , Li Yuanyuan
Published: June 2018

Assessment of historical evolution of groundwater levels is essential for understanding the anthropogenic impact on groundwater exploitation and developing response policies. In this study, regional groundwater level trend was addressed based on the regional Kendall test with correlated spatial data. With a limited number of data at one location, an exponential relation was proposed to be used to approximate covariances of a variable as a function of distances between locations. The effectiveness of the method was demonstrated using synthetic data experiments. The regional Kendall method was applied to assess evolution of groundwater levels and their annual decline rates in Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei in China based on county‐level data in 1959, 1984, 2005, and 2013. Results indicated that a continuing declining regional trend was shown in groundwater levels, revealing generally higher groundwater recharge rates than withdrawal rates in the study region. The annual groundwater decline rates presented a firstly increasing then decreasing regional trend, which is consistent with the environmental Kuznets curve. The earlier accelerating groundwater decline rate was attributed to supply‐driven water resources management, whereas the reversed trend in accelerating groundwater decline rate in the latter period was due to many measures implemented to relieve local water stresses.
Functional characterization of CYP4G11—a highly conserved enzyme in the western honey bee Apis mellifera
Authors: Calla B. , MacLean M. , Liao L.‐H. , Dhanjal I. , Tittiger C. , Blomquist G.J. , Berenbaum M.R.
Published: June 2018

Determining the functionality of CYP4G11, the only CYP4G in the genome of the western honey bee Apis mellifera, can provide insight into its reduced CYP4 inventory. Toward this objective, CYP4G11 transcripts were quantified, and CYP4G11 was expressed as a fusion protein with housefly CPR in Sf9 cells. Transcript levels varied with age, task, and tissue type in a manner consistent with the need for cuticular hydrocarbon production to prevent desiccation or with comb wax production. Young larvae, with minimal need for desiccation protection, expressed CYP4G11 at very low levels. Higher levels were observed in nurses, and even higher levels in wax producers and foragers, the latter of which risk desiccation upon leaving the hive. Recombinant CYP4G11 readily converted octadecanal to n‐heptadecane in a time‐dependent manner, demonstrating its functions as an oxidative decarbonylase. CYP4G11 expression levels are high in antennae; heterologously expressed CYP4G11 converted tetradecanal to n‐tridecane, demonstrating that it metabolizes shorter‐chain aldehydes. Together, these findings confirm the involvement of CYP4G11 in cuticular hydrocarbon production and suggest a possible role in clearing pheromonal and phytochemical compounds from antennae. This possible dual functionality of CYP4G11, i.e., cuticular hydrocarbon and comb wax production and antennal odorant clearance, may explain how honey bees function with a reduced CYP4G inventory.
Adherence to medication, glycaemic control and hospital attendance in young adults with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Kunasegaran Shalini , Beig Junaid , Khanolkar Manish , Cundy Tim
Published: June 2018

Type 2 diabetes is becoming common among people in their 20s and 30s. Glycaemic control is suboptimal in this group and is associated with poor medication adherence. We studied medication adherence over a 24‐month period in all diabetes clinic registrants (n = 266) between the ages of 18 and 39 years. We reviewed their glycaemic control using mean HbA1c over the study period and examined hospital records to determine the number of hospital attendances during this time. We found that less than half the group (47%) had good adherence (>90%) and 21% of the group had very poor adherence (<50%). Mean adherence was slightly poorer in women compared to men (73% vs 76%, P = 0.04). There was a marked inverse relationship between adherence and glycaemic control. Mean HbA1c is 70 mmol/mol among those with good adherence and mean HbA1c is 97 mmol/mol among those with very poor adherence (P < 0.05). Fifty‐seven per cent of the study group had at least one hospital attendance during this time. Eighty‐eight hospital attendances were due to a medical cause. Study of trend showed more medical admissions among those with very poor adherence (P = 0.03). Mean HbA1c was higher in those who required medical admissions (87 mmol/mol vs 75 mmol/mol) when compared to those with no hospital attendance. Our study shows that poor adherence is common and significantly related to glycaemic control as well as unplanned hospital attendances for medical conditions. Despite limitations, our study provides valuable information on medication adherence and its impact on glycaemic control and morbidity among young people with type 2 diabetes.
Metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: diagnosis and treatment with a view to the future
Authors: Pokorny Adrian M. J. , Chin Venessa T. , Nagrial Adnan M. , Yip Desmond , Chantrill Lorraine A.
Published: June 2018

Metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (mPDAC) is a lethal disease with a poor 5‐year survival. Systemic treatments can be used to control symptoms and prolong life. Cytotoxic chemotherapies are commonly administered, with combination treatments, such as fluorouracil, folinic acid, irinotecan and oxaliplatin (FOLFIRINOX) or nab‐paclitaxel and gemcitabine showing the largest clinical benefits. Newer genomic classifications of PDAC may provide a rationale for targeted therapies or immunotherapies, although at present these remain largely experimental. This review discusses the evidence behind the currently used regimens, while introducing the potential future of pancreatic cancer care.
Is β‐diversity of Amazonian ant and dung beetles communities elevated at rainforest edges?
Authors: Marsh Charles J. , Feitosa Rodrigo M. , Louzada Julio , Ewers Robert M.
Published: June 2018

Aim

Thousands of kilometres of rainforest edges are created every year through forest fragmentation, but we have little knowledge of the impacts of edges on spatial patterns of species turnover and nestedness components of β‐diversity.

Location

A quasi‐experimental landscape in the north‐east Brazilian Amazon.

Methods

We sampled dung beetles and ants using a sampling design based on a fractal series of equilateral triangles that naturally allows examination at multiple spatial scales. We sampled two edge types (primary‐secondary and primary‐Eucalyptus forest) and three control sites immersed in primary, secondary and Eucalyptus forest. We measured β‐diversity between communities across the primary forest‐matrix edge and within communities at up to 1 km from the forest edge. We examined β‐diversity at multiple scales by partitioning the dissimilarity matrix into fractal orders representing inter‐point distances of ~32, ~100, ~316 and ~1,000 m and into turnover and nestedness components.

Results

Turnover but not nestedness was greater across the primary‐Eucalyptus forest than primary‐secondary forest edge. There was spillover of species across edges in both directions. Across edges and within controls, turnover was the main driver of β‐diversity. Within community, β‐diversity was increased for dung beetles at large scales (~300–1,000 m) at both edge types. This increase, however, was driven by elevated nestedness. Levels of β‐diversity were affected even ~300 m into habitat interiors, but appeared to be at control levels by 1 km.

Main conclusions

The effects of edges on the spatial dynamics of community composition penetrated far beyond the typical distances at which forest structure and microclimate are altered. This indicates that for a significant proportion of Amazonian communities, the underlying processes determining diversity may be impacted by deforestation.
Prevalence of Frailty in Older Community‐Dwelling Tanzanians According to Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment
Authors: Lewis Emma G. , Wood Greta , Howorth Kate , Shah Bhavini , Mulligan Louise , Kissima John , Dotchin Catherine , Gray William , Urasa Sarah , Walker Richard
Published: June 2018

Objectives

To investigate the prevalence of frailty using a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) in older community‐dwelling adults living in rural northern Tanzania.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Setting

Five randomly selected villages in Hai District, Kilimanjaro region, Tanzania.

Participants

All adults aged 60 and older living in the selected villages were eligible to participate, including older adults with cognitive impairment provided a close relative was able to assent on their behalf. All participants were community dwelling because institutionalization is very rare.

Measurements

Participants were screened using a short frailty screening tool, the Brief Frailty Instrument for Tanzania (B‐FIT), comprising an abbreviated test of cognitive function and the Barthel Index, which assesses functional independence. Based on B‐FIT score, a frailty‐weighted, stratified sample was selected for in‐depth assessment using CGA and characterized as frail or not frail.

Results

Two hundred thirty‐six CGAs were performed in 1,207 people screened, 91 of whom were deemed frail. After adjusting for stratification, the prevalence of frailty was 19.1% (95% confidence interval=15.2–23.1).

Conclusion

This is the first study in sub‐Saharan Africa to report the prevalence of frailty in community‐dwelling older adults according to a CGA. The strengths of reporting frailty according to a CGA include the ability to consider likely medical diagnoses based on clinical assessment and to assess individuals' social circumstances and environment.
A Painting Technique Using Ceramic Pigments for the Artificial Iris of an Ocular Prosthesis Guided by Applying Newton's Color Wheel
Authors: Alfenas Elizabeth Rodrigues , da Silva Jéssica Genoveva Boline Passarelli Capaz Pinto , Silveira Maria Elizabeth Sousa , Fonseca Maria Fernanda Lopes , de Arruda José Alcides Almeida , Moreno Amália
Published: June 2018

This article describes a simple method for painting an artificial iris for the manufacturing of an ocular prosthesis with dark and light tones, both with excellent esthetic results. The challenge of choosing colors around the pupil and medium zone during painting is aided by the application of Newton's color wheel theory. This technique provides a safer choice of color during the painting procedure by using a mixture of ceramic pigments.
A Comparison of the Flexural and Impact Strengths and Flexural Modulus of CAD/CAM and Conventional Heat‐Cured Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA)
Authors: Al‐Dwairi Ziad N. , Tahboub Kawkab Y. , Baba Nadim Z. , Goodacre Charles J.
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The introduction of computer‐aided design/computer‐aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology to the field of removable prosthodontics has recently made it possible to fabricate complete dentures of prepolymerized polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) blocks, which are claimed to be of better mechanical properties; however, no published reports that have evaluated mechanical properties of CAD/CAM PMMA. The purpose of this study was to compare flexural strength, impact strength, and flexural modulus of two brands of CAD/CAM PMMA and a conventional heat‐cured PMMA.

Materials and Methods

45 rectangular specimens (65 mm × 10 mm × 3 mm) were fabricated (15 CAD/CAM AvaDent PMMA specimens from AvaDent, 15 CAD/CAM Tizian PMMA specimens from Shütz Dental, 15 conventional Meliodent PMMA specimens from Heraeus Kulzer) and stored in distilled water at (37  ± 1°C) for 7 days. Specimens (N = 15) in each group were subjected to the three‐point bending test and impact strength test, employing the Charpy configuration on unnotched specimens. The morphology of the fractured specimens was studied under a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Statistical analysis was performed using one‐way ANOVA and Tukey pairwise multiple comparisons with 95% confidence interval.

Results

The Schütz Dental specimens showed the highest mean flexural strength (130.67 MPa) and impact strength (29.56 kg/m2). The highest mean flexural modulus was recorded in the AvaDent group (2519.6 MPa). The conventional heat‐cured group showed the lowest mean flexural strength (93.33 MPa), impact strength (14.756 kg/m2), and flexural modulus (2117.2 MPa). Differences in means of flexural properties between AvaDent and Schütz Dental specimens were not statistically significant (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

As CAD/CAM PMMA specimens exhibited improved flexural strength, flexural modulus, and impact strength in comparison to the conventional heat‐cured groups, CAD/CAM dentures are expected to be more durable. Different brands of CAD/CAM PMMA may have inherent variations in mechanical properties.
Rational Versus Intuitive Gatekeeping: Escalation of Commitment in the Front End of NPD
Authors: Eliëns Ramon , Eling Katrin , Gelper Sarah , Langerak Fred
Published: June 2018

The unwillingness of a gatekeeper to let go of a fruitless new product development (NPD) project wastes valuable resources and hampers NPD performance. The onset of such escalation of commitment is likely to occur already in the front end of NPD, where high ambiguity and complexity make it hard to distinguish fruitless from potentially successful projects. This study investigates if a gatekeeper’s thinking style—whether they think rationally or whether they follow their intuition—can prevent escalation of commitment in the front end. Theory on cognition provides arguments for and against either thinking style’s influence on escalation of commitment, but empirical evidence on this matter is lacking. Our study demonstrates that gatekeepers who think rationally are less likely to escalate their commitment than those who follow their intuition. This result holds both in a correlational study of dispositional thinking styles, as well as in an individual‐level randomized experiment in which the thinking style of experienced practitioners before they take gate decisions is induced. Our findings provide ample opportunities for improving existing front end gate review practices, such as allocating candidates for gatekeeper positions based on their thinking style, training gatekeepers to think rationally, and increasing the use of gate‐decision rules and templates.
In vitro oral processing of raw tomato: Novel insights into the role of endogenous fruit enzymes
Authors: Rabiti Davide , Orfila Caroline , Holmes Melvin , Bordoni Alessandra , Sarkar Anwesha
Published: June 2018

During consumption of fruits, the breakdown of the fruit tissue due to oral processing (chewing, mixing with saliva) may activate or increase the rate of endogenous enzyme activities via the disruption of the cell wall, cellular decompartmentalization, and particle size reduction allowing the enzymes to reach their substrates. The aim of this study was to investigate the activity of one such endogenous fruit enzyme (pectin methylesterase [PME] [E.C. 3.1.1.11]) during in vitro oral processing of raw tomatoes and associated changes in viscosity and microstructure. Oral processing of tomatoes purees was examined in the presence of artificial saliva (AS) at 37°C. in vitro oral processing was followed using immunofluorescence microscopy, apparent viscosity measurements, spectrophotometric, and titrimetric techniques. The results demonstrated that PME had slight but significant activity in the tomato fruit during in vitro oral processing generating methanol as a function of oral processing time, which was further evidenced using immunolabeling techniques to detect methylated pectin epitopes. A significant shear‐thinning behavior of the tomato puree was observed due to dilution and/or endogenous fruit enzyme activity. These results suggest that activity of other fruit enzymes, such as polygalacturonase, which catalyzed the depolymerization of unmethylated pectin chains, might have resulted in a decrease in viscosity, which compensated for the increased potential for gel formation (if any) caused by PME. These interesting insights into the role of endogenous fruit enzymes might pave the way to the understanding of fruit viscosity modification occurring in the mouth and help in rational design of new fruit‐based products.