bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Favorable effects of hydroxychloroquine on serum low density lipid in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Babary Hamayon , Liu Xibei , Ayatollahi Yosef , Chen Xin P. , Doo Loomee , Uppaluru Lakshmi K. , Kwak Myoung K. , Kulaga Catherine , Modjinou Dodji , Olech Ewa , Yoo Ji W.
Published: September 2017

Aims

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) has shown to have significant immunomodulatory effects in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Current studies show favorable effects of HCQ on traditional cardiac risk factors in patients with SLE. This review examined the effects of HCQ on serum low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) level in patients with SLE.

Methods

A systematic search of seven major literature search databases from their inception until 3 April, 2017 identified nine studies. Random‐effects pooled mean difference with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated. Heterogeneity was measured by I2. Publication bias was assessed by visual inspection of funnel plots. Sensitivity analysis examined whether HCQ effect on serum total cholesterol level was similar to the main analysis. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system was used to assess the overall quality of evidence.

Results

Pooled study participants were 559 patients from eight observation studies (two before‐after studies; six case‐control studies) examining the effects of HCQ on serum LDL. Pooled study participants' characteristics were as follows: mean age 45.719, female 95.262%, and prednisone use 58.366%. HCQ reduced mean LDL levels by 24.397 mg/dL (95% CI 8.921–39.872; P = 0.002). The number of studies identifying statin use was too few to perform meta‐regression analysis of statin use. Heterogeneity was extensive (I2 = 94.739%). Symmetrical funnel plot visualized no evidence of publication bias.

Conclusion

HCQ was associated with serum LDL level reduction by mean 24.397 mg/dL in patients with SLE. Future prospective studies are need to fully characterize the treatment effect.
Estrogenic regulation of skeletal muscle proteome: a study of premenopausal women and postmenopausal MZ cotwins discordant for hormonal therapy
Authors: Laakkonen Eija K. , Soliymani Rabah , Karvinen Sira , Kaprio Jaakko , Kujala Urho M. , Baumann Marc , Sipilä Sarianna , Kovanen Vuokko , Lalowski Maciej
Published: September 2017

Female middle age is characterized by a decline in skeletal muscle mass and performance, predisposing women to sarcopenia, functional limitations, and metabolic dysfunction as they age. Menopausal loss of ovarian function leading to low circulating level of 17β‐estradiol has been suggested as a contributing factor to aging‐related muscle deterioration. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain largely unknown and thus far androgens have been considered as a major anabolic hormone for skeletal muscle. We utilized muscle samples from 24 pre‐ and postmenopausal women to establish proteome‐wide profiles, associated with the difference in age (30–34 years old vs. 54–62 years old), menopausal status (premenopausal vs. postmenopausal), and use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT; user vs. nonuser). None of the premenopausal women used hormonal medication while the postmenopausal women were monozygotic (MZ) cotwin pairs of whom the other sister was current HRT user or the other had never used HRT. Label‐free proteomic analyses resulted in the quantification of 797 muscle proteins of which 145 proteins were for the first time associated with female aging using proteomics. Furthermore, we identified 17β‐estradiol as a potential upstream regulator of the observed differences in muscle energy pathways. These findings pinpoint the underlying molecular mechanisms of the metabolic dysfunction accruing upon menopause, thus having implications for understanding the complex functional interactions between female reproductive hormones and health.
Asymmetrical size and functionality of the pampas deer (Ozotoceros bezoarticus) testes: Right testis is bigger but left testis is more efficient in spermatogenesis
Authors: Ungerfeld R. , Villagrán M. , Lacuesta L. , Vazquez N. , Pérez W.
Published: September 2017

Information about gonadal asymmetries in ruminants is very scarce. In this work, we performed three complementary studies to compare characteristics of both testes: (i) weight and size of offspring and adult dead males; (ii) the tissue:fluid relationship determined by ultrasound scanning; and (iii) the spermatogenic status using fine needle aspiration cytology. The right testis was heavier than the left one in both offspring and adult animals and had greater width and volume in adult males than the left one. The ultrasound pixel intensity was similar in both testes. The right testis tended to have more spermatogonia (p = .06) and had a greater percentage of early spermatids (p = .004) than the left testis. On the other hand, the left testis had a greater percentage of spermatozoa (p = .05). The left testis had a greater spermatozoa/spermatogonia ratio (p = .02) and tended to have more spermatozoa/Sertoli cells ratio (p = .07). The spermatogenic index tended to be greater in the left than in the right testis (p = .06). Overall, we concluded that the right testis of pampas deer males is bigger but according to the cytology, it seems to be less spermatogenically effective than the left one, but these differences are not explained by different tissue:fluid ratio in each testis. Although differences were greater in adults than in offspring, asymmetry was observed even in just born offspring.
Circulatory Flow Restoration Versus Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: New Therapeutic Approach in Sudden Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Nour Sayed , Carbognani Daniel , Chachques Juan Carlos
Published: September 2017

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) remains a major problem for health authorities worldwide. Insufficiencies of current cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) are most probably related to an inappropriate concept and applied methods that still concentrate on heartbeat as priority, instead of blood circulation to maintain organs' perfusions. The aim of this works is to propose a new therapeutic approach for SCA in a more effective and secure manner compared with current CPR methods. It correlates to a non‐invasive circulatory flow restoration (CFR) device composed of a multilayered thoracic and infradiaphragmatic compartments that will be pulsated alternatively and in fixed frequencies using a low‐pressure pneumatic generator. Proof‐of‐concept studies with different prototypes and methods of SCA, showed restoration of hemodynamics (BP ≥ 100 mm Hg) and increased urine output after 20 min of cardiac arrest in pediatric dogs and piglets. In summary, a CFR device can induce shear stress‐mediated endothelial function to restore microcirculation and cellular metabolism. This represents a cost‐effective method, predisposes to return of spontaneous circulation in case of SCA, adaptable for all age groups, in public and hospital environments.
Significance of measurement of serum trough level and anti‐drug antibody of adalimumab as personalised pharmacokinetics in patients with Crohn's disease: a subanalysis of the DIAMOND trial
Authors: Nakase H. , Motoya S. , Matsumoto T. , Watanabe K. , Hisamatsu T. , Yoshimura N. , Ishida T. , Kato S. , Nakagawa T. , Esaki M. , Nagahori M. , Matsui T. , Naito Y. , Kanai T. , Suzuki Y. , Nojima M. , Watanabe M. , Hibi T. ,   DIAMOND study group
Published: September 2017

Background

Significance of monitoring adalimumab trough levels and anti‐adalimumab antibodies (AAA) for disease outcome in Crohn's disease (CD) patients remained unclear.

Aim

To evaluate the association of adalimumab trough levels and AAA at week 26 with clinical remission at week 52, the effect of azathiopurine on AAA and factors influencing trough levels in CD patients in the DIAMOND trial.

Methods

We performed this study using adalimumab trough levels, AAA at week 26 and 6‐thioguanine nucleotide (TGN) in red blood cells at week 12. A multiple regression model and receiver operating analysis was performed to identify factors influencing adalimumab trough levels and AAA, and adalimumab thresholds for predicting disease activity.

Results

There was a significant difference of adalimumab trough level at week 26 between patients with disease remission and without at week 52 (7.7 ± 3.3 μg/mL vs 5.4 ± 4.3 μg/mL: P <.001). Adalimumab trough level of 5.0 μg/mL yielded optimal sensitivity and specificity for remission prediction (80.2% and 55.6%, respectively). AAA development at week 26 significantly affected remission at week 52 (P = .021), which was strongly associated with adalimumab trough levels. Female gender and increasing body weight were independently associated with low adalimumab trough levels, and female gender was associated with AAA development. A cut‐off 6TGN level of >222.5 p mol/8 ×108 RBCs yielded sensitivity (100%) and specificity (60.6%) for AAA negativity.

Conclusion

Adalimumab trough levels and AAA occurrence were significantly associated with clinical remission. Higher 6TGN affected AAA negativity. The combination therapy is beneficial in some relevant aspects for CD patients. (UMIN Registration No. 000005146)
Migration management and mobility pathways for Filipino migrants to New Zealand
Authors: Friesen Wardlow
Published: September 2017

There has been an increasing focus on migration management by academics and policy makers, especially in relation to temporary and transitional forms of mobility. This paper considers the acceleration of Filipino migration to New Zealand in recent years, partly driven by changing policies allowing migrants to transition from student and work visas to permanent residence. It outlines the history of Filipino migration to New Zealand, the roles of the Philippines and New Zealand governments and intermediaries in migration management and the nature of student, temporary work and permanent residence migration. The transitional pathways used by Filipino migrants are analysed in relation to the influence of skills and educational characteristics in creating opportunities for some and vulnerability for others.
Benefits and risks for Melanesian households from commercialising Canarium indicum
Authors: Carter J. , Smith E.F.
Published: September 2017

This research note discusses the benefits and risks for Melanesian households arising from attempts to increasingly commercialise Canarium indicum, an edible tree nut indigenous to Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. Qualitative data were generated during workshops and interviews with Canarium industry stakeholders about the impacts associated with a series of interventions designed to encourage further commercialisation of Canarium. The findings are organised according to three dimensions that elucidate the social implications of industry development for local communities: (i) income and growth; (ii) equity; and (iii) voice and choice. Broader distribution of benefits within and between countries, as well as among supply chain actors, requires a stronger policy response at regional (Melanesia) and national scales, equitable gender representation to avoid reinforcing existing inequalities, and delegation of decision‐making power to the appropriate level to facilitate effective community participation and their links with other stakeholders. Thus, it remains to be seen whether Canarium‐related benefits arising from its commercialisation can be sufficiently reliable compared with either other sources of income (e.g. existing employment opportunities for those located near urban areas) or utilising the resource for subsistence purposes.
Prehistoric Settlement, Mobility and Societal Structure in the Peak District National Park: New Evidence from Ceramic Compositional Analysis
Authors: Cootes K. V. E. , Quinn P. S.
Published: September 2017

Detailed compositional and technological analysis of a large assemblage of prehistoric ceramics from numerous sites situated within the Peak District National Park has been used to explore the settlement patterns, societal structure, mobility and interaction of the populations that inhabited this area during the Early Bronze Age to Early Iron Age. A surprising pattern emerges of the widespread dominance of a single, geographically restricted temper type, which appears to have been transported and mixed with locally procured clay and used to produce pottery at numerous different sites. The distribution of this and several other compositional groups are defined via thin‐section petrography and compared to raw material field samples. The resulting patterns are used to assess the validity of previous theories about prehistoric life in this region during the third to first millennia bc.
Dietary cation and anion difference: Effects on milk production and body fluid distribution in lactating dairy goats under tropical conditions
Authors: Nguyen Thiet , Chaiyabutr Narongsak , Chanpongsang Somchai , Thammacharoen Sumpun
Published: September 2017

This study aimed to determine the effect of dietary cation and anion difference (DCAD) on milk production and body fluid distribution in lactating dairy goats. Ten dairy goats were selected and divided into two groups, five animals each. Animals received either control DCAD (control, 22.81 mEq/100 g dry matter (DM)) or high DCAD (DCAD, 39.08 mEq/100 g DM). The results indicated that rectal temperature (Tr), respiration rate, milk yield and compositions did not differ between groups. But the percentage change of Tr from the DCAD group was lower than the control group between 09.00 and 13.00 hours. DM intake tended to increase in the DCAD group. Dairy goats in the DCAD group drank more water, but urinary excretion and plasma antidiuretic hormone concentration remained unchanged. Apparent water balance was higher from the DCAD group over 24 h. There was no effect of DCAD on plasma and blood volumes, but tended to increase in extracellular fluid and thereby increased total body water. The present results indicate that animals supplemented with high DCAD increase their total body water and apparent water balance. These results have contributed to the process of adaptation for evaporative cooling and would be useful in slowing down the elevation in Tr.
The relationship between motor skills and psychosocial factors in young children: A test of the elaborated environmental stress hypothesis
Authors: Mancini Vincent O. , Rigoli Daniela , Roberts Lynne D. , Heritage Brody , Piek Jan P.
Published: September 2017

Background

The elaborated environmental stress hypothesis (EESH) provides a framework that describes how motor skills may indirectly cause internalizing problems through various mediating psychosocial factors. While there is evidence to support this framework, little is known about how the proposed relationships may vary across different stages of development.

Aims

This study aimed to investigate whether peer problems and perceived self‐competence mediated the relationship between motor skills and internalizing problems in pre‐primary children, and at 18‐month follow up.

Sample

A community sample of 197 pre‐primary school children (M = 5.40 years, SD = 0.30 years; 102 males, 95 females) participated at Time 1, with 107 completing the Time 2 follow‐up.

Methods

Standardized instruments were used to measure motor skills and verbal IQ. Perceived self‐competence was measured using a self‐report measure. Participant peer problems and internalizing problems were measured using teacher report. Age, gender, and verbal IQ were included as covariates.

Results

Mediation analysis using PROCESS showed that the relationship between motor skills and internalizing problems was mediated by peer problems at Time 1. At Time 2, the relationship was mediated by peer problems and perceived physical competence.

Conclusions

The current results indicate the EESH may function differently across different periods of development. The transition from pre‐primary to Grade 1 represents a time of important cognitive and psychosocial development, which has implications for how the relationship between motor skills and internalizing problems can be understood. These findings highlight potential age‐appropriate targets for psychomotor interventions aiming to improve the emotional well‐being of young children.
Selective targeting of M‐type potassium Kv7.4 channels demonstrates their key role in the regulation of dopaminergic neuronal excitability and depression‐like behaviour
Authors: Li Li , Sun Hui , Ding Jie , Niu Chenxu , Su Min , Zhang Ludi , Li Yingmin , Wang Chuan , Gamper Nikita , Du Xiaona , Zhang Hailin
Published: September 2017

Background and Purpose

The mesolimbic dopamine system originating in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) is involved in the development of depression, and firing patterns of VTA dopaminergic neurons are key determinants in this process. Here, we describe a crucial role for the M‐type Kv7.4 channels in modulating excitability of VTA dopaminergic neurons and in the development of depressive behaviour in mice.

Experimental Approach

We used Kv7.4 channel knockout mice and a social defeat model of depression in combination with electrophysiological techniques (patch clamp recording and in vivo single‐unit recordings), immunohistochemistry, single‐cell PCR and behavioural analyses (social interaction time and glucose preference tests) to investigate VTA circuits involved in the development of depression‐like behaviour.

Key Results

Among the Kv7 channels, Kv7.4 channels are selectively expressed in dopaminergic neurons of the VTA. Using a newly identified selective Kv7.4 channel activator, fasudil, and Kv7.4 channel knockout mice, we demonstrate that these channels are a dominant modulator of excitability of VTA dopaminergic neurons, in vitro and in vivo. Down‐regulation of Kv7.4 channels could be a causal factor of the altered excitability of VTA dopaminergic neurons and depression‐like behaviour. The selective Kv7.4 channel activator, fasudil, strongly alleviated depression‐like behaviour in the social defeat mouse model of depression.

Conclusion and Implications

Because expression of Kv7.4 channels in the CNS is limited, selectively targeting this M channel subunit is likely to produce less on‐target side effects than non‐selective M channel modulators. Thus, Kv7.4 channels may offer alternative targets in treatment of depression.
A retro‐prospective effectiveness study on 3448 implant operations at one referral clinic: A multifactorial analysis. Part I: Clinical factors associated to early implant failures
Authors: Jemt Torsten
Published: September 2017

Background

Limited numbers of large effectiveness studies on routine dental implant treatment are available in the literature.

Purpose

To report retro‐prospective data on prevalence of early implant failures in a large number of routine patients/operations at 1 referral clinic.

Materials and methods

A total of 2848 patients were consecutively provided with 9582 implants with an anodized surface (Nobel Biocare AB) during 3448 implant operations between 2003 and 2011. All patients were invited to a follow‐up program and early implant failures up to first annual examination were consecutively identified. A logistic multivariate data analysis was performed to identify possible factors with an association to early implant failures.

Results

A total of 43, 73, and 81 implant operations were denoted as early failures depending on when cut‐off time was defined, using: abutment connection, prosthesis placement, or at first year of follow‐up, respectively. Five factors showed significant association to “early implant failures,” where the highest risk for a failure was associated to “surgeon” (hazard ratio [HR] 5.13), followed by “not prosthetic treatment at the referral clinic” (HR 2.71). When all 5 significant factors were present, the risk for an early failure after an operation was 7.0%, and the risk decreased to 0.1% when none/lowest risk factors were present.

Conclusions

The role of the surgeons/dentists involved in the rehabilitation of the implant patients and numbers of placed implants (degree of tooth loss) showed the strongest associations to early implant failures in the present clinic. Also increased bone resorption was associated to increased risk for implant failure.
Are sound abatement measures necessary in the cytology reading room? A study of auditory distraction
Authors: Evered A. , Watt A. , Perham N.
Published: September 2017

Objective

Listening to music and other auditory material during microscopy work is common practice among cytologists. While many cytologists would claim several benefits of such activity, research in other fields suggests that it might adversely affect diagnostic performance. Using a cross‐modal distraction paradigm, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of auditory stimulation on the visual interpretation of cell images.

Methods

Following initial training, 34 participants undertook cell interpretation tests under four auditory conditions (liked music, disliked music, speech and silence) in a counterbalanced repeated‐measures study. Error rate, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, criterion and response time were measured for each condition.

Results

There was no significant effect of auditory stimulation on the accuracy or speed with which cell images were interpreted, mirroring the results of a previous visual distraction study.

Conclusion

To the extent that the experiment reflects clinical practice, listening to music or other forms of auditory material whilst undertaking microscopy duties is unlikely to be a source of distraction in the cytopathology reading room. From a cognitive perspective, the results are consistent with the notion that high focal‐task engagement may have blocked any attentional capture the sound may otherwise have produced.
Perceived stigma and social support in treatment for pharmaceutical opioid dependence
Authors: Cooper Sasha , Campbell Gabrielle , Larance Briony , Murnion Bridin , Nielsen Suzanne
Published: September 2017

Introduction and Aims

The dramatic increase in pharmaceutical opioid (PO) use in high‐income countries is a growing public health concern. Stigma and social support are important as they may influence treatment uptake and outcomes, yet few studies exist regarding perceived stigma and social support among people with PO dependence. The aims of the study are to: (i) compare characteristics of those with PO dependence from iatrogenic and non‐iatrogenic causes; (ii) document perceived stigma and its correlates in people in treatment for PO dependence; and (iii) examine correlates of social support in people in treatment for PO dependence.

Design and Methods

This prospective cohort study included (n = 108) PO‐dependent people referred from treatment services. Telephone interviews were conducted at baseline, 3, 12 and 24 months. Multivariate linear regression was used to examine correlations.

Results

Mean age was 41 (SD = 10.5). Half (n = 56, 52%) were female. Two in five met the criteria for iatrogenic dependence (n = 41, 38%), with iatrogenic dependence associated with chronic pain, and no history of injection or heroin use. One quarter of study subjects reported past month unsanctioned opioid use (n = 25, 23%). Being married/de facto or female was associated with higher levels of perceived stigma. Unsanctioned opioid use, iatrogenic dependence and mental health conditions were associated with lower social support.

Discussion and Conclusions

Stigma affects all people in treatment. Those who are married/de facto and female may benefit from interventions to address stigma. The association of low social support with poorer mental health and ongoing substance use indicate that treatment could focus more on this area.
Endoscopic submucosal dissection in the West: Current status and future directions
Authors: Ma Michael X. , Bourke Michael J.
Published: September 2017

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) was first conceptually described almost 30 years ago in Japan and is now widely practiced throughout East Asia. ESD expands the boundaries of endoscopic resection (ER) by allowing en bloc resection of large early neoplastic lesions within the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). This offers advantages over other ER techniques by facilitating definitive histological staging and curative treatment of early cancer in selected cases. Indeed, the experience of ESD in Eastern countries is significant, and excellent outcomes from high‐volume centers are reported. The potential benefits of ESD are recognized by Western endoscopists, but its adoption has been limited. A number of factors contribute to this, including epidemiological differences in GIT neoplasia between Western and Eastern populations and limitations in training opportunities. In this review, we discuss the role of ESD, its current status and the future in Western endoscopic practice.
Peroral endoscopic myotomy in achalasia and large epiphrenic diverticulum
Authors: Demeter Michal , Bánovčin Peter , Ďuriček Martin , Kunda Rastislav , Hyrdel Rudolf
Published: September 2017

Symptomatic epiphrenic diverticula are mostly treated surgically with laparoscopic diverticulectomy, myotomy and anterior fundoplication. However, in case the patient does not agree with surgical therapy or is contraindicated, there are limited ways of alternative treatment. We present a case report of a 72‐year‐old female patient with severe dysphagia, regurgitation, paroxysmal cough, weight loss and malnutrition who was diagnosed with achalasia and large epiphrenic diverticulum. She did not give consent to the proposed surgical treatment. Alternatively, peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) was carried out. In one‐year follow up, we observed complete symptom resolution, significant weight gain, improvement of nutritional status and no complications. We suggest that POEM could serve as an effective and safe alternative treatment for patients with achalasia and esophageal epiphrenic diverticula.
Estimated glucose disposal rate predicts mortality in adults with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Nyström Thomas , Holzmann Martin J. , Eliasson Björn , Svensson Ann‐Marie , Sartipy Ulrik
Published: September 2017

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the association between insulin resistance as determined by the estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR), and survival in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) in Sweden.

Material and Methods

Using the Swedish National Diabetes Register, indviduals with T1D were included from January 1, 2005 to December 31, 2012. Outcomes were retrieved from National healthcare registers. Hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for the associations between eGDR (mg/kg/min) categorized into <4, 4 to 5.99, 6 to 7.99, and ≥8 (reference) and outcomes. Relative survival methods were used to compare survival to a matched Swedish reference population.

Results

Among 17 050 included individuals with T1D, 10.5%, 20.2%, 20.5% and 48.9% had an eGDR of <4, 4 to 5.99, 6 to 7.99, and ≥8, respectively. Individuals with an eGDR <8 were older and had more comorbidities. During a median follow‐up of 7.1 years, there were 946 (6%) deaths; 264 (15%), 367 (11%), 195 (6%) and 120 (1%) deaths occurred in individuals with an eGDR of <4, 4 to 5.99, 6 to 7.99 and ≥8, respectively. After adjustment for a wealth of different covariates including diabetes duration, age, sex and renal function, individuals with an eGDR <4, 4 to 5.99, and 6 to 7.99 had an increased risk of death compared to those with an eGDR ≥8 (adjusted HRs, 95% CIs, P values: 2.78, 2.04 to 3.77, <.001; 1.92, 1.49 to 2.46, <.001; 1.73, 1.34 to 2.21, <.001). Survival in individuals with an eGDR ≥8 was equal to a matched general population.

Conclusions

There is a strong association between eGDR and all‐cause mortality, as well as cardiovascular mortality, in individuals with T1D. Our findings may guide preventive measures by improving risk assessment in individuals with T1D.
Immunodepletion of α‐plurivorin effector leads to loss of virulence of Phytophthora plurivora towards Fagus sylvatica
Authors: Dalio R. J. D. , Fleischmann F. , Chambery A. , Eichmann R. , Massola N. S. , Pascholati S. F. , Osswald W.
Published: September 2017

Phytophthora species secrete several proteins during their interaction with plants. Some of these proteins manipulate host metabolism favouring infection, while others can be recognized by plants thus triggering defence. Elicitins are known to elicit plant defences, leading to resistance. Here, we characterized the elicitin α‐plurivorin and proved that it was essential for the virulence of Phytophthora plurivora towards Fagus sylvatica. The immunodepletion of this peptide impaired its penetration into host tissue and in parallel P. plurivora lost its ability to colonize beech roots. Furthermore, the lack of α‐plurivorin inside the host led to an up‐regulation of several defence‐related genes of both salicylic acid and jasmonate/ethylene pathways, suggesting that α‐plurivorin might act as an effector‐triggered susceptibility during infection. Consequently, plants survived infection with P. plurivora after α‐plurivorin immunodepletion, whereas the majority of the infected control plants had died at the end of the experiment. Because canonical elicitins are ubiquitously secreted by many Phytophthora species, it is possible that these molecules may play a similar role in other susceptible interactions, being a potential target for controlling Phytophthora diseases.
Successful collection of peripheral blood stem cells upon VIDE chemomobilization in sarcoma patients
Authors: Kriegsmann Katharina , Heilig Christoph , Cremer Martin , Novotny Philipp , Kriegsmann Mark , Bruckner Thomas , Müller‐Tidow Carsten , Egerer Gerlinde , Wuchter Patrick
Published: September 2017

Objectives

In patients with Ewing sarcoma and some distinct subgroups of soft tissue sarcoma (STS), a quantitatively sufficient autologous peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) collection for stem cell support might facilitate treatment continuation, dose‐intensification, and high‐dose chemotherapy. Here, we provide a detailed evaluation of PBSC collection upon vincristine, ifosfamide, doxorubicin, and etoposide (VIDE) chemomobilization.

Methods

Mobilization and collection parameters of 42 sarcoma patients (Ewing sarcoma n = 35, other STS n = 7) were analyzed retrospectively. Data were evaluated with regard to the number of previous VIDE therapy cycles.

Results

All patients reached the collection goal of ≥2.0 × 106 CD34+ cells/kg body weight (bw) upon VIDE/G‐CSF mobilization, in the majority of cases with one single leukapheresis (LP) session (n = 29, 69%). No significant differences were identified with regard to mobilization and collection variables or the number of previous induction VIDE therapy cycles. However, upon 5 cycles of VIDE, we found the highest relative proportion of patients who required two or three LP sessions.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate the feasibility of successful PBSC collection upon VIDE chemomobilization even after up to five cycles of induction therapy, while at the same time the increasing risk of bone marrow exhaustion with every consecutive cycle is outlined.
Post‐transplant consolidation plus lenalidomide maintenance vs lenalidomide maintenance alone in multiple myeloma: A systematic review
Authors: Al‐Ani Fatimah , Louzada Martha
Published: September 2017

Background

In newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM), autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) remains the standard approach for transplant‐eligible patients. To control the inevitable relapse, post‐transplant consolidation/maintenance strategies are commonly used. However, the benefit of post‐transplant consolidation is still uncertain

Method

We conducted a systematic review of phase II/III studies to compare the efficacy of post‐ASCT consolidation plus lenalidomide maintenance (CON+LEN) vs lenalidomide maintenance alone (LEN alone) in NDMM. A meta‐analysis using fixed and random effects models was performed.

Results

Fourteen studies were included with 2275 participants with NDMM treated with ASCT and lenalidomide maintenance. Two groups were identified: CON+LEN group (n = 1102) and LEN alone group (n = 1173). There was no statistically significant difference in the complete response rate between the two groups [RR = 1.1; 95% CI: 0.83‐1.44; P = .490]. Interestingly, we found that very good partial response or better rate is around 1.5‐fold significantly higher in the CON+LEN group compared to LEN alone group [RR: 1.46; 95% CI: 1.25‐1.70; P < .0001]. However, there was no significant difference between the two groups regarding PFS [RR: 1.0; 95% CI: 0.92‐1.08, P = .929] and OS [RR: 0.9; 95% CI: 0.92‐1.01; P = .148] at 3‐4 years follow‐up. The risk of secondary primary malignancy (SPM) was also similar between the two groups (RR: 1.2; 95% CI: 0.84‐1.92; P = .2). Data on adverse events were limited.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that, in NDMM patients treated with upfront ASCT, post‐transplant consolidation may improve depth of response, but does not add to OS or PFS, compared to lenalidomide maintenance alone. However, data in this context are still immature.
Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance as viewed by haematology healthcare professionals
Authors: McShane Charlene M. , Murphy Blain , Lim Kah Heng , Anderson Lesley A.
Published: September 2017

Objectives

To investigate the words and descriptions used by haematology healthcare professionals (HCPs) to describe monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) to their patients.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey of haematology HCPs attending an annual haematology conference was undertaken. Content analysis was applied to the returned qualitative responses.

Results

In total, 55 people, many of whom were doctors (n = 32; 58.2%), responded. The majority of respondents reported using simple terminology such as “abnormal protein” to describe MGUS to their patients. Some reported using analogies that the patient was more likely to be familiar with, such as comparing a paraprotein to the finding of a mole or lump. Education level, age and cognitive ability were cited as important factors in deciding how and whether information was relayed to patients. Many respondents supported frequent follow‐up and the transfer of low‐risk MGUS patients to primary care. However, several highlighted a lack of awareness and understanding of MGUS outside of haematology, particularly within primary care. Only 41.8% of respondents reported providing all of their patients with an information leaflet.

Conclusions

With an ageing population, it is important to consider management strategies for MGUS patients. Our findings will assist those in making these arrangements.
A systematic literature search to identify performance measure outcomes used in clinical studies of racehorses
Authors: Wylie C. E. , Newton J. R.
Published: September 2017

Background

Racing performance is often used as a measurable outcome variable in research studies investigating clinical diagnoses or interventions. However, the use of many different performance measures largely precludes conduct of meaningful comparative studies and, to date, those being used have not been collated.

Objectives

To systematically review the veterinary scientific literature for the use of racing performance as a measurable outcome variable in clinical studies of racehorses, collate and identify those most popular, and identify their advantages and disadvantages.

Study design

Systematic literature search.

Methods

The search criteria “((racingANDperformance)AND(horsesORequidae))” were adapted for bothMEDLINEandCABAbstracts databases. Data were collected in standardised recording forms for binary, categorical and quantitative measures, and the use of performance indices.

Results

In total, 217 studies that described racing performance were identified, contributing 117 different performance measures. No one performance measure was used in all studies, despite 90.3% using more than one variable. Data regarding race starts and earnings were used most commonly, with 88.0% and 54.4% of studies including at least one measure of starts and earnings, respectively. Seventeen variables were used 10 times or more, with the top five comprising: ‘return to racing’, ‘number of starts’, ‘days to first start’, ‘earnings per period of time’ and ‘earnings per start’.

Main limitations

The search strategies may not have identified all relevant papers, introducing bias to the review.

Conclusions

Performance indices have been developed to improve assessment of interventions; however, they are not widely adopted in the scientific literature. Use of the two most commonly identified measures, whether the horse returned to racing and number of starts over a defined period of time, would best facilitate future systematic reviews and meta‐analyses in advance of the development of a gold‐standard measure of race performance outcome.
Urban struggles with financialization
Authors: Fields Desiree
Published: September 2017

The 2008 financial crisis and its impacts on the urban landscape contributed to a proliferation of research on the financialization of urban space, particularly of housing. Today, financialization is a mainstream focus of study within geography. But while scholars have responded to earlier calls to center space and place in their research, it has only been quite recently that geographers have taken up efforts to politicize and contest the financialization of urban space. This essay assesses the emerging body of literature on urban struggles with financialization. It first draws on historical materialist perspectives to situate financialization within urban contexts, showing why there is a particular relationship between this process and urban space, and how moments of crisis reveal tensions in this relationship. Reviewing literature focused on places exposed to the most systemic housing–financial crises in 2008, the essay then explores how residents, activists, and movements have grappled with financialization. It argues that a key aspect of such struggles is the ability to make their presence felt within chains of financial intermediaries or the corporate headquarters of foreign investors. The essay also highlights how moments of crisis open space for more radical tactics that disrupt the dominant production of space and emphasize the social value of housing. It suggests ways to fruitfully expand geographic inquiry into urban struggles with financialization through focusing on the formation of political subjectivities and engaging geographies beyond the global north.
YOU ARE WHAT YOU WILL: KANT, SCHOPENHAUER, FACIAL EXPRESSION OF EMOTION, AND AFFECTIVE COMPUTING1
Authors: Smith John
Published: September 2017

Recent developments in the cognitive sciences have advanced the techniques of reading emotions on the human face. Paul Ekman has formalised the study of ‘micro‐expressions’, universal ways in which emotions are embedded and expressed in the human face, and the field of ‘affective computing’ has employed software to allow facial expressions of emotion to be read and evaluated by digital technology. Such developments raise fundamental philosophical issues concerning the relationship between external physical signs on the body and internal, otherwise invisible characteristics of human nature. While this relationship lies at the heart of the centuries‐old field of physiognomy in general, this essay explores discussions of it by Immanuel Kant (1724–1804) and Arthur Schopenhauer (1788–1860).
Atomic structure and dissolution properties of yttrium‐containing phosphate glasses
Authors: Fu Yidong , Christie Jamieson K.
Published: September 2017

We have conducted classical molecular dynamics simulations of three compositions of yttrium‐containing phosphate glasses, to study the atomic structure around yttrium, and understand how yttrium incorporation will affect the glass dissolution rate. The Y‐O bond length is about 2.2 Å and the coordination number is 6.3. To avoid effects due to different network connectivities, our compositions were chosen to keep the Qn distribution and network connectivity roughly constant, which was confirmed through direct calculation. For these compositions, the structure of the phosphate network is comprised of finite‐length chains of PO4 tetrahedra bound to the network modifiers. We showed that yttrium bonds to 4.2‐4.3 of these chains, compared to 3.8 for calcium, and 3.1‐3.2 for sodium. This implies that yttrium will bond more parts of the glass to the same place, and therefore, that yttrium incorporation will strengthen phosphate glass against dissolution, making it potentially suitable for radiotherapy applications where a durable glass is required.
Neonatal skin care: what should we do? A four‐week follow‐up randomized controlled trial at Zagazig University Hospitals
Authors: Amer Mohamed , Diab Nagwa , Soliman Mohamed , Amer Amin
Published: September 2017

Introduction

Taking care of newborn skin is necessary to avoid skin infections. The normal daily exposure to external factors affects the skin negatively. Skin hygiene and proper skin cleansing as well as protection of the infant skin barrier are essential to maintain barrier function and overall infant health.

Aim

The aim of this work is to assess the neonatal skin care effectiveness in promotion of normal skin development and protection of the optimal skin function by avoiding the different neonatal skin disorders which cause skin infection.

Conclusion

In conclusion, proper care and good hygiene of the normal mature neonatal skin are essential to maintain skin barrier function and overall health. This is achieved by optimizing epidermal barrier integrity that includes:

bathing and using emollient;

preventing and managing infections and skin injury;

minimizing transepidermal water loss (TEWL);

minimizing heat loss and percutaneous absorption of toxins.

Baby bath products as well as baby wipes are safe to use and do not appear to affect an infant's skin barrier integrity. It is therefore sensible to use cleansers that have been specially designed for baby's skin, which are pH neutral and very mild to avoid irritant dermatitis and allergic dermatitis.
Aroma volatiles, sensory and chemical attributes of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) achenes and receptacle
Authors: Lu Hongyan , Ban Zhaojun , Wang Kaidi , Li Dong , Li Dongdong , Poverenov Elena , Li Li , Luo Zisheng
Published: September 2017

This study investigated the aroma volatiles, sensory and chemical attributes of strawberry achenes and receptacle. Samples were subjected to chemical analysis in terms of total soluble solids (TSS), total acidity (TA), total phenolics, anthocyanin content, antioxidant capacity and volatile compounds. Descriptive tests indicated that fresh whole fruit had the best overall quality. Chemical evaluations revealed that the receptacle emitted more aroma volatiles but exhibited lower TSS, phenolics and antioxidant capacity than the achenes. Moreover, achenes plus receptacle contained higher levels of phenolics and antioxidant capacity and showed moderate aroma volatile profiles than frozen whole fruit. The processing of juice showed the higher loss of phenolics, antioxidant capacity and aroma volatiles. Achene induced a significant increase in phenolics and antioxidant capacity. Aroma volatiles were reduced by freezing. These results suggested that the fresh whole fruit puree exhibited better overall quality, which had better sensory attributes, more aroma volatiles and higher antioxidant capacity.
Starch‐based carbohydrates display the bifidogenic and butyrogenic properties in pH‐controlled faecal fermentation
Authors: Plongbunjong Vijitra , Graidist Potchanapond , Knudsen Knud Erik Bach , Wichienchot Santad
Published: September 2017

Starch‐based carbohydrates, native rice starch (NRS), isomaltooligosaccharide produced from native rice starch (rIMO), commercial isomaltooligosaccharide (cIMO), resistant starch type 2 (RS2) and type 3 (RS3) were investigated the bifidogenic and butyrogenic properties. The result confirmed that the bifidogenic effect of rIMO (9.8 ± 0.18) was comparable to cIMO (10.3 ± 0.2). In addition, rIMO showed the highest support on growth of bifidobacteria during early fermentation (10 h), and it was not significantly different (P > 0.05) from cIMO after up to 70 h. Prebiotic index (PI) at 24 h fermentation of rIMO and cIMO was shown positive value and higher than RS3 and RS2. Meanwhile, NRS showed negative value means it has no prebiotic property. Interestingly, RS3 showed approximately twofold in butyrate production (132.3 mm) compared to rIMO and cIMO. In conclusion, IMO showed high bifidogenic effect; meanwhile, RS3 showed high butyrogenic property.
Indirect Fiscal Effects of Long‐Term Care Insurance*
Authors: Geyer Johannes , Haan Peter , Korfhage Thorben
Published: September 2017

Informal care by close family members is the main pillar of most long‐term care systems. However, due to demographic ageing, the need for long‐term care is expected to increase while the informal care potential is expected to decline. From a budgetary perspective, informal care is often viewed as a cost‐saving alternative to subsidised formal care. This view, however, neglects that many family carers are of working age and face the difficulty of reconciling care and paid work, which might entail sizeable indirect fiscal effects related to forgone tax revenues, lower social security contributions and higher transfer payments. In this paper, we use a structural model of labour supply and the choice of care arrangement to quantify these indirect fiscal effects of informal care. Moreover, based on the model, we discuss the fiscal effects related to non‐take‐up of formal care.
Effects of strontium doping on the degradation and Sr ion release behaviors of α‐tricalcium phosphate bone cement
Authors: Shi Haishan , Zeng Shenghui , Liu Xu , Yu Tao , Zhou Changren
Published: September 2017

Strontium plays important physicochemical and biological roles in the applications of bone repair materials. The available methods of Sr doping in bone cements were believed to make a key effect on the biodegradation and Sr ion release behaviors of cements. In this work, Sr‐doped octacalcium phosphate (Sr‐OCP), Sr‐doped α‐tricalcium phosphate (Sr‐α‐TCP), SrCO3, and SrCl2 with different actual availability of Sr2+ were imported into α‐TCP bone cements, and their effects on the biodegradation and ions release of cements were comparatively investigated. Incorporation of different Sr carriers had led to distinct hydration morphologies, crystal evolutions, degradation rates, and microenvironments of bone cements during their in vitro biodegradation. Compared with other Sr carriers, Sr‐OCP facilitated the hydration reaction of α‐TCP, which induced the enhanced degradation and Sr ion release behaviors. In conclusion, Sr‐OCP was supposed to be a more potential Sr carrier applied in the synthesis of biodegradable Sr‐doped calcium phosphate bone cements.