bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of and risk factors for symptomatic urinary tract infection after endoscopic incision for the treatment of ureterocele in children
Authors: Moriya Kimihiko , Nakamura Michiko , Nishimura Yoko , Kanno Yukiko , Kitta Takeya , Kon Masafumi , Shinohara Nobuo
Published: April 2017

Objective

To clarify the impact of endoscopic incision (EI) for ureterocele as an initial procedure, by performing a retrospective chart review, focusing on the prevalence of and risk factors for symptomatic urinary tract infection (UTI) after EI.

Materials and Methods

In the present study we included children with ureterocele, managed between September 1994 and April 2016, who were observed conservatively without additional surgical management after EI. Ureterocele was categorized as intravesical or ectopic. Symptomatic UTI was defined as either recurrent non‐febrile or febrile UTI. The prevalence of and risk factors for symptomatic UTI were analysed using Cox proportional hazard models or Kaplan–Meier curves, and the log‐rank test.

Results

A total of 36 children met the inclusion criteria. The median age of the participants at EI was 8.9 months. Eleven children had symptomatic UTIs (febrile, n = 9; recurrent non‐febrile, n = 2) during the median follow‐up of 75.5 months. Initial symptomatic UTI in each child occurred <25 months after EI. The symptomatic UTI‐free rate after EI was 65.6%. The risk factors for symptomatic UTI were female gender, duplex system, ectopic ureterocele, and unchanged hydronephrosis after EI.

Conclusions

The present study determined the critical period and risk factors for symptomatic UTI after EI for the treatment of ureterocele. The results suggest that when conservative management is indicated after EI, patients, especially those with risk factors, should be followed carefully at least for 25 months after EI for symptomatic UTI.
Profiling microRNA from nephrectomy and biopsy specimens: predictors of progression and survival in clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Kowalik Casey G. , Palmer Drew A. , Sullivan Travis B. , Teebagy Patrick A. , Dugan John M. , Libertino John A. , Burks Eric J. , Canes David , Rieger‐Christ Kimberly M.
Published: April 2017

Objective

To identify microRNA (miRNA) characteristic of metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) and those indicative of cancer‐specific survival (CSS) in nephrectomy and biopsy specimens. We also sought to determine if a miRNA panel could differentiate benign from ccRCC tissue.

Materials and Methods

RNA was isolated from nephrectomy and kidney biopsy specimens (n = 156 and n = 46, respectively). Samples were grouped: benign, non‐progressive, and progressive ccRCC. MiRNAs were profiled by microarray and validated by quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. Biomarker signatures were developed to predict cancer status in nephrectomy and biopsy specimens. CSS was examined using Kaplan–Meier and Cox proportional hazards analyses.

Results

Microarray analysis revealed 20 differentially expressed miRNAs comparing non‐progressive with progressive tumours. A biomarker signature validated in nephrectomy specimens had a sensitivity of 86.7% and a specificity of 92.9% for differentiating benign and ccRCC specimens. A second signature differentiated non‐progressive vs progressive ccRCC with a sensitivity of 93.8% and a specificity of 83.3%. These biomarkers also discriminated cancer status in biopsy specimens. Levels of miR‐10a‐5p, ‐10b‐5p, and ‐223‐3p were associated with CSS.

Conclusion

This study identified miRNAs differentially expressed in ccRCC samples; as well as those correlating with CSS. Biomarkers identified in this study have the potential to identify patients who are likely to have progressive ccRCC, and although preliminary, these results may aid in differentiating aggressive and indolent ccRCC based on biopsy specimens.
Preparation, characterization, and in vivo study of rhein solid lipid nanoparticles for oral delivery
Authors: Feng Haiyang , Zhu Yuping , Fu Zhixuan , Li Dechuan
Published: April 2017

In this study, rhein‐SLNs were successfully produced by hot homogenization followed by ultrasonication. Precirol ATO5 in which rhein exhibited higher partition coefficient was selected for preparation of SLNs. In the dynamic light scattering, the rhein‐SLNs showed a smaller size with a mean value of 120.8 ± 7.9 nm and with zeta potential of −16.9 ± 2.3 mV. SLNs exhibited a good stability during the period of 2 months. The SLNs indicated faster drug release with a burst release within 2 hr and followed by a sustained release with a biphasic drug‐release pattern. Comparing with the same concentration (free drug), the cellular cytotoxicity of rhein‐loaded SLNs increased significantly at the same incubation condition. In vivo, the AUC0‐t of rhein in the form of SLNs was significantly increased and was 2.06‐fold that of suspensions group. The results showed an increased oral absorption and improved the oral bioavailability of rhein by the formulation of SLNs.
Sucking behaviour in infants born preterm and developmental outcomes at primary school age
Authors: Wolthuis‐Stigter Mechteld I , Da Costa Saakje P , Bos Arend F , Krijnen Wim P , Van Der Schans Cees P , Luinge Margreet R
Published: April 2017

Aim

To determine the association between sucking in infants born preterm and developmental outcomes at 5 years.

Method

Thirty‐four infants were included (mean gestational age 30wks 4d, mean birthweight 1407g). The Neonatal Oral‐Motor Assessment Scale was used longitudinally from 37 to 50 weeks postmenstrual age. At 5 years, we assessed motor skills, intelligence, language, verbal memory, and behavioural problems. Linear regression analyses were performed to test whether aspects of sucking behaviour predicted these developmental outcomes. Where linear regression was not appropriate, Spearman's correlation coefficients were calculated between sucking and developmental outcomes.

Results

Sucking was associated with total motor skills (B [unstandardized correlation coefficient for normally distributed data]=22.66, 95% confidence interval [CI] 6.61 to 38.71), balance (Spearman's ρ=0.64, p<0.001), total intelligence (B=−1.16, 95% CI −1.89 to −0.44, B=10.48, 95% CI 0.39 to 20.71, B=−2.22, 95% CI −3.42 to −1.02), verbal intelligence (B=−0.95; 95% CI −1.83 to −0.07, B=−2.02; 95% CI −3.55 to −0.49), performance intelligence (B=−1.34, 95% CI −2.13 to −0.54, B=12.36, 95% CI 1.13 to 23.60, B=−2.37, 95% CI −3.75 to −0.96), and language (B=−1.78, 95% CI −3.36 to −0.19). All associations were in the same direction: the better the sucking, the higher the test scores. Verbal memory and behavioural problems were not associated with sucking.

Interpretation

Abnormal sucking between 42 weeks and 50 weeks postmenstrual age may reflect abnormal neurological functioning in children born preterm.
Longitudinal physical activity and sedentary behaviour in preschool‐aged children with cerebral palsy across all functional levels
Authors: Keawutan Piyapa , Bell Kristie L , Oftedal Stina , Ware Robert S , Stevenson Richard D , Davies Peter S W , Boyd Roslyn N
Published: April 2017

Aim

To investigate longitudinal changes of habitual physical activity (HPA) and sedentary time in children with cerebral palsy (CP) aged 1 year 6 months to 5 years across all functional abilities.

Method

At study entry, 95 children (62 males, 33 females) were classified using the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) at levels I (50), II (9), III (16), IV (6), and V (14). Physical activity was recorded on a total of 159 occasions at four possible time points: 1 year 6 months to 2 years; 2 years 6 months to 3 years; 4 years; and 5 years using ActiGraph for 3 days. Mixed‐effects regression models were used for analyses.

Results

Participants classified at GMFCS levels I and II had stable HPA as they aged. HPA significantly decreased at 5 years in children classified at GMFCS levels III to V. Sedentary time significantly increased at 4 years and 5 years in all participants. Annual HPA significantly reduced in children classified at GMFCS levels III to V (−123 counts/min, 95% confidence interval [CI] −206 to −40) while annual sedentary time significantly increased in all participants (GMFCS levels I–II: 2.4%, 95% CI 0.7–4.1; GMFCS levels III–V: 6.9%, 95% CI 4.6–9.2).

Interpretation

Children with CP at all GMFCS levels should be encouraged to be physically active from early childhood as HPA levels start to decline from 4 years. Breaks in sedentary time are required for all children with CP from the age of 3 years.
Variability in HbA1c, blood pressure, lipid parameters and serum uric acid, and risk of development of chronic kidney disease in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Ceriello Antonio , De Cosmo Salvatore , Rossi Maria Chiara , Lucisano Giuseppe , Genovese Stefano , Pontremoli Roberto , Fioretto Paola , Giorda Carlo , Pacilli Antonio , Viazzi Francesca , Russo Giuseppina , Nicolucci Antonio ,   on behalf of the AMD‐Annals Study Group
Published: April 2017

Aim

Variability in HbA1c and blood pressure is associated with the risk of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). No evidence exists on the role of variability in lipids or serum uric acid (UA), or the interplay between the variability of different parameters, in renal outcomes.

Methods

Within the AMD Annals database, we identified patients with ≥5 measurements of HbA1c, systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), total‐, high‐density lipoprotein (HDL)‐ and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL)‐cholesterol, triglycerides, and UA. Patients were followed‐up for up to 5 years. The impact of measures of variability on the risk of DKD was investigated by Cox regression analysis and recursive partitioning techniques.

Results

Four‐thousand, two‐hundred and thirty‐one patients were evaluated for development of albuminuria, and 7560 for decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR; <60 mL/min/1.73 m2). A significantly higher risk of developing albuminuria was associated with variability in HbA1c [upper quartile hazard ratio (HR) = 1.3; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1‐1.6]. Variability in SBP, DBP, HDL‐C, LDL‐C and UA predicted the decline in eGFR, the association with UA variability being particularly strong (upper quartile HR = 1.8; 95% CI 1.3‐2.4). The concomitance of high variability in HbA1c and HDL‐C conferred the highest risk of developing albuminuria (HR = 1.47; 95% CI 1.17‐1.84), while a high variability in UA (HR = 1.54; 95% CI 1.19‐1.99) or DBP (HR = 1.47; 95% CI 1.11‐1.94) conferred the highest risk of decline in eGFR.

Conclusion

The variability of several parameters influences the development of DKD, having a different impact on albuminuria development and on the decline in GFR.
Impact of baseline glycated haemoglobin, diabetes duration and body mass index on clinical outcomes in the LixiLan‐O trial testing a titratable fixed‐ratio combination of insulin glargine/lixisenatide (iGlarLixi) vs insulin glargine and lixisenatide monocomponents
Authors: Davies Melanie J. , Leiter Lawrence A. , Guerci Bruno , Grunberger George , Ampudia‐Blasco F. Javier , Yu Christine , Stager William , Niemoeller Elisabeth , Souhami Elisabeth , Rosenstock Julio
Published: April 2017

To determine whether baseline characteristics had an impact on clinical outcomes in the LixiLan‐O trial (N = 1170), we compared the efficacy and safety of iGlarLixi, a titratable fixed‐ratio combination of insulin glargine 100 U (iGlar) and lixisenatide (Lixi) with iGlar or Lixi alone in patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) on oral therapy. Subgroups according to baseline glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c; <8% or ≥8% [<64 or ≥64 mmol/mol]), T2DM disease duration (<7 or ≥7 years) and body mass index (BMI; <30 or ≥30 kg/m2) were investigated. In all subpopulations, iGlarLixi was consistently statistically superior to iGlar and Lixi alone in reducing HbA1c from baseline to week 30; higher proportions of patients achieved HbA1c <7% (<53 mmol/mol) with iGlarLixi vs iGlar and Lixi alone. Compared with iGlar, iGlarLixi resulted in a substantial decrease in 2‐hour postprandial plasma glucose levels, and mitigation of weight gain, with no differences among subpopulations in incidence of symptomatic hypoglycaemia. iGlarLixi consistently improved glycaemic control compared with iGlar and Lixi alone, without weight gain or increase in hypoglycaemic risk compared with iGlar in the subpopulations tested, regardless of baseline HbA1c, disease duration and BMI.
Combination therapy with GLP‐1 receptor agonist and SGLT2 inhibitor
Authors: DeFronzo Ralph A.
Published: April 2017

The SGLT2 inhibitors (SGLTi) and glucagon‐like‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1 RAs) effectively reduce HbA1c, but via very different mechanisms, making them an effective duet for combination therapy. Recently, drugs in both of these antidiabetic classes have been shown to reduce cardiovascular events, most probably by different mechanisms. SGLT2i appear to exert their CV protective actions by haemodynamic effects, while GLP‐1 RAs work via anti‐atherogenic/anti‐inflammatory mechanisms, raising the possibility that combined therapy with these 2 classes may produce additive CV benefits. The SGLT2i and GLP‐1 RAs also reduced macroalbuminuria, decreased the time for doubling of serum creatinine, and slowed the time to end‐stage renal disease. In this perspective, we review the potential benefit of combination SGLT2i/GLP‐1 RA therapy on metabolic‐cardiovascular‐renal disease in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Headache patients’ satisfaction with telemedicine: a 12‐month follow‐up randomized non‐inferiority trial
Authors: Müller K. I. , Alstadhaug K. B. , Bekkelund S. I.
Published: April 2017

Background and purpose

We investigated non‐acute headache patients’ long‐term satisfaction with a telemedicine consultation and consultation preferences in northern Norway. We hypothesized that patients were not less satisfied with telemedicine than traditional consultations. We also examined the influence of gender, age and education on satisfaction.

Methods

For 2.5 years, patients were consecutively screened, recruited and randomly assigned to telemedicine or traditional visits with a consultation at a neurological outpatient department. The primary endpoint was frequency of satisfied patients at 3 and 12 months. Secondary endpoints were satisfaction with consultation, communication, information, diagnosis, advice and prescriptions, and preferred visit form at 12 months.

Results

Of 402 participants, 279 (69.4%) answered questionnaires at both 3 and 12 month, and 291 (72.4%) responded at 12 months. The long‐term satisfaction of telemedicine patients was 124/145 (85.5%) compared with 118/134 (88.1%) in the traditional group (P = 0.653). The groups did not differ with respect to secondary endpoints, but females were more satisfied with telemedicine communication (P = 0.027). In the telemedicine group, 99/147 (67.3%) were indifferent to the type of consultation. Age and education did not alter the primary results.

Conclusions

At 1 year after a specialist evaluation for headache, telemedicine patients did not express less satisfaction than those with traditional consultation. Telemedicine specialist consultations may be a good alternative for headache patients in secondary care.
Effects of feeding two RRR‐α‐tocopherol formulations on serum, cerebrospinal fluid and muscle α‐tocopherol concentrations in horses with subclinical vitamin E deficiency
Authors: Brown J. C. , Valberg S. J. , Hogg M. , Finno C. J.
Published: April 2017

Background

Alpha‐tocopherol (α‐TP) supplementation is recommended for the prevention of various equine neuromuscular disorders. Formulations available include RRR‐α‐TP acetate powder and a more expensive but rapidly water‐dispersible liquid RRR‐α‐TP (WD RRR‐α‐TP). No cost‐effective means of rapidly increasing serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) α‐TP with WD RRR‐α‐TP and then sustaining concentrations with RRR‐α‐TP acetate has yet been reported.

Objectives

To evaluate serum, CSF and muscle α‐TP concentrations in an 8‐week dosing regimen in which horses were transitioned from WD RRR‐α‐TP to RRR‐α‐TP acetate.

Study design

Non‐randomised controlled trial.

Methods

Healthy horses with serum α‐TP of <2 μg/mL were divided into three groups and followed for 8 weeks. In the control group (n = 5), no α‐TP was administered. In the second group (Group A; n = 7), 5000 IU/day RRR‐α‐TP acetate was administered. In the third group (Group WD–A; n = 7), doses of 5000 IU/day of WD RRR‐α‐TP were administered over 3 weeks, followed by a 4‐week transition from WD RRR‐α‐TP to RRR‐α‐TP acetate, and a final 1 week of treatment with RRR‐α‐TP acetate. Serum samples were obtained weekly; muscle biopsies were obtained before, at 2.5 weeks and after supplementation. CSF samples were obtained before and after the 8‐week period of supplementation.

Results

Serum α‐TP increased significantly in Group WD–A at week 1 and remained significantly higher than in Group A and the control group throughout the transition, with inter‐individual variation in response. Serum α‐TP increased significantly by week 7 in Group A. CSF α‐TP increased significantly in Group WD–A only. Muscle α‐TP concentrations did not differ significantly across groups. Serum and CSF α‐TP were closely correlated (r = 0.675), whereas serum and muscle‐α‐TP concentrations were not correlated.

Main limitations

The study duration was short and data on pre‐transition CSF was lacking.

Conclusions

The administration of 5000 IU/day of water‐dispersible RRR‐α‐TP rapidly increases serum α‐TP. Serum and CSF α‐TP concentrations are sustained with a gradual transition to 5000 IU/day of RRR‐α‐TP acetate. Periodic evaluation of serum α‐TP concentrations is recommended because responses vary among individuals.
Dual layer SiC coating on matrix graphite sphere prepared by pack cementation and fluidized‐bed chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Zhou Ping , Zheng Zujie , Liu Rongzheng , Liu Xiaoxue , Liu Malin , Wang Taowei , Li Ziqiang , Shao Youlin , Zhao Hongsheng , Liu Bing
Published: April 2017

A dual layer silicon carbide (SiC) coating including inner porous SiC (p‐SiC) layer and outer dense SiC (d‐SiC) layer was fabricated on the matrix graphite (MG) spheres of high‐temperature gas‐cooled reactor fuel elements by pack cementation and fluidized‐bed chemical vapor deposition process to improve the oxidation‐resistant property. Microstructure of the coating demonstrates different density and structure of the two SiC layers with no obvious boundaries between them. Weight gain curves of oxidation tests at 1773 K for 200 hours show that the coating could effectively protected the MG sphere by isolating the air infiltration with p‐SiC layer as the main functional layer and d‐SiC layer as the transition layer to improve the bond strength. Due to the transition function of p‐SiC layer, the coated spheres could understand more than 50 times thermal shocking tests from 1773 K to room temperature with no stress cracking.
Forgetting in Immortality
Authors: Felder Ryan Marshall
Published: April 2017

In the philosophical debate about the desirability of immortality it is argued that immortality could never be desirable, since it requires us to either take on a life where none of our projects or interests stimulate us anymore, or else to loosen our connections to our past selves and no longer survive. I argue that both concerns can be met by considering the role that partial forgetting of past experiences would play in the immortal life. One who loses some non‐essential memories of their past stands to be able to enjoy experiences that have grown tiresome with age. My contribution is to clarify how partial forgetting of only the non‐essential memories allays concerns about our potentially loosened connections to our earlier states. I then consider an objection to my account, that since the standards governing collective memory might be more demanding than those governing individual memory, immortal people might sacrifice aspects of their collective lives to render their own immortal lives enjoyable.
#GeriMedJC: The Twitter Complement to the Traditional‐Format Geriatric Medicine Journal Club
Authors: Gardhouse Amanda I. , Budd Laura , Yang Seu Y. C. , Wong Camilla L.
Published: April 2017

Twitter is a public microblogging platform that overcomes physical limitations and allows unrestricted participation beyond academic silos, enabling interactive discussions. Twitter‐based journal clubs have demonstrated growth, sustainability, and worldwide communication, using a hashtag (#) to follow participation. This article describes the first year of #GeriMedJC, a monthly 1‐hour live, 23‐hour asynchronous Twitter‐based complement to the traditional‐format geriatric medicine journal club. The Twitter moderator tweets from the handle @GeriMedJC; encourages use of #GeriMedJC; and invites content experts, study authors, and followers to participate in critical appraisal of medical literature. Using the hashtag #GeriMedJC, tweets were categorized according to thematic content, relevance to the journal club, and authorship. Third‐party analytical tools Symplur and Twitter Analytics were used for growth and effect metrics (number of followers, participants, tweets, retweets, replies, impressions). Qualitative analysis of follower and participant profiles was used to establish country of origin and occupation. A semistructured interview of postgraduate trainees was conducted to ascertain qualitative aspects of the experience. In the first year, @GeriMedJC has grown to 541 followers on six continents. Most followers were physicians (43%), two‐thirds of which were geriatricians. Growth metrics increased over 12 months, with a mean of 121 tweets, 25 participants, and 105,831 impressions per journal club. Tweets were most often related to the article being appraised (87.5%) and ranged in thematic content from clinical practice (29%) to critical appraisal (24%) to medical education (20%). #GeriMedJC is a feasible example of using social media platforms such as Twitter to encourage international and interprofessional appraisal of medical literature.
Effect of Ficus carica leaf extract on the gene expression of selected factors in HaCaT cells
Authors: Turkoglu Murat , Pekmezci Erkin , Kilic Songul , Dundar Cihat , Sevinc Hakan
Published: April 2017

Background

Ficus carica Linn. (Fc), common fig, has been traditionally used for many metabolic, cardiovasculary, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and skin disorders. Several studies were performed showing its anti‐inflammatory, anti‐angiogenic, anticancerogenic, and tissue‐protective effects. In all of those studies, the positive effects of Fc were concluded as the result of its antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory features due to the polyphenols it contains.

Aims

To study the phenolic compounds of Fc extract and to investigate the molecular basis of anti‐inflammatory, anti‐angiogenic, antimitotic, and anti‐androgenic effects of Fc leaf extract in vitro.

Materials and Methods

The gene expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐a), interleukin 1‐alpha (IL‐1a), and 5 alpha‐reductase type II (SRD5A2) were tested in human keratinocyte cells (HaCaT) by RT‐qPCR.

Results

The gene expression analysis showed that the plant extract caused statistically significant downregulation of VEGF, TNF‐a, IL‐1a, and SRD5A2 compared to the untreated cells.

Discussion

These preliminary results of this in vitro study may partially explain the clinical success of Fc in the traditional medicine.

Conclusion

Topical Fc leaf extract may be beneficial for some inflammatory disorders and androgen‐dependent disorders of the skin such as androgenetic alopecia.
Effects of Levothyroxine Administration and Withdrawal on the Hypothalamic‐Pituitary‐Thyroid Axis in Euthyroid Dogs
Authors: Ziglioli V. , Panciera D.L. , Troy G.C. , Monroe W.E. , Boes K.M. , Refsal K.R.
Published: April 2017

Background

Chronic supplementation can suppress the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐thyroid axis (HPTA) and make it difficult to assess thyroid function after withdrawal of levothyroxine.

Objectives

To determine whether theHPTAis suppressed after levothyroxine administration in euthyroid dogs and the time required for resolution of any suppression.

Animals

Twenty‐eight healthy euthyroid dogs.

Methods

A prospective, randomized study administering levothyroxine to euthyroid dogs for 8 weeks (group 1) or 16 weeks (group 2). Serum concentrations of total thyroxine (T4), free thyroxine (fT4) by equilibrium dialysis, thyroid stimulating hormone; thyrotropin (TSH), and 3,5,3′‐triiodothyronine (T3) were measured every 4 weeks during supplementation and for 16 weeks after levothyroxine was discontinued.

Results

Mean serum concentrations of T4andfT4were significantly higher (P< .0001) andTSHwas lower (P< .0001) in all dogs during levothyroxine administration compared to baseline. Mean serum concentrations of T4,fT4,andTSHin both groups, beginning 1 week after levothyroxine was discontinued, were significantly different (P< .01) compared to values during levothyroxine administration but not compared to baseline values (P> .3).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Assessing thyroid function tests 1 week after cessation of levothyroxine at 26 μg/kg once a day for up to 16 weeks will provide an accurate assessment of thyroid function in healthy euthyroid dogs.
Efficacy of Holmium Laser Transurethral Incision of the Prostate in Symptomatic Mild‐to‐Moderate Benign Prostate Enlargement Based on Preoperative Characteristics
Authors: SUH Yoon Seok , KO Kwang Jin , KIM Tae Heon , SUNG Hyun Hwan , LEE Kyu‐Sung
Published: April 2017

Objective

To investigate the efficacy of Holmium laser transurethral incision of the prostate (Ho‐TUIP) with preoperative characteristics based on urodynamic parameters.

Methods

The medical records of 40 consecutive cases of Ho‐TUIP in patients unresponsive to medical treatment were retrospectively reviewed. The efficacy of Ho‐TUIP was analyzed according to preoperative factors, including urodynamic parameters. Treatment success was confirmed if overall efficacy demonstrated an improvement that was “good or greater” according to the criteria developed by Homma et al. Predictive factors of treatment success were analyzed using logistic regression analysis with demographics, symptom questionnaires, prostate size, and urodynamic parameters. Postoperative complications and Global Response Assessment (GRA) were investigated.

Results

Mean age was 60.9 years (range 37–84), mean follow‐up period was 36.6 months (range 6.3–114.8), and mean prostate size was 23.5 mL (range 12.7–39.5). All patients underwent medical treatment before Ho‐TUIP, and mean medication duration was 50.5 months (range 3.4–140.0). The treatment success rate was 60.0%. Treatment success rates were higher in the bladder outlet obstruction index (BOOI) ≥20 group (n = 26) than in the BOOI <20 group (n = 14) (p = 0.003). In logistic regression analysis, BOOI ≥20 was a predictor of treatment success (OR 7.60, 95% CI 1.60–35.90, P = 0.010). Among patients who maintained an active sex life, 77.8% (14/18) reported retrograde ejaculation. In terms of GRA, 81.5% (31/38, two patients expired) of patients improved at the final follow‐up.

Conclusions

Ho‐TUIP is an effective procedure with tolerable complications for the treatment of symptomatic mild‐to‐moderate BPE in patients with BOOI ≥20 that are unresponsive to medical treatment.
Fifty Million Elvis Fans Can't be Wrong
Authors: Belot Gordon
Published: April 2017

This essay revisits some classic problems in the philosophy of space and time concerning the counting of possibilities. I argue that we should think that two Newtonian worlds can differ only as to when or where things happen and that general relativistic worlds can differ in something like the same way—the first of these theses being quaintly heterodox, the second baldly heretical, according to the mores of contemporary philosophy of physics.
The plastid outer membrane localized LPTD1 is important for glycerolipid remodelling under phosphate starvation
Authors: Hsueh Yi‐Ching , Ehmann Christian , Flinner Nadine , Ladig Roman , Schleiff Enrico
Published: April 2017

Glycerolipid synthesis in plants is coordinated between plastids and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). A central step within the glycerolipid synthesis is the transport of phosphatidic acid from ER to chloroplasts. The chloroplast outer envelope protein TGD4 belongs to the LptD family conserved in bacteria and plants and selectively binds and may transport phosphatidic acid. We describe a second LptD‐family protein in A. thaliana (atLPTD1; At2g44640) characterized by a barrel domain with an amino‐acid signature typical for cyanobacterial LptDs. It forms a cation selective channel in vitro with a diameter of about 9 Å. atLPTD1 levels are induced under phosphate starvation. Plants expressing an RNAi construct against atLPTD1 show a growth phenotype under normal conditions. Expressing the RNAi against atLPTD1 in the tgd4–1 background renders the plants more sensitive to light stress or phosphate limitation than the individual mutants. Moreover, lipid analysis revealed that digalactosyldiacylglycerol and sulfoquinovosyldiacylglycerol levels remain constant in the RNAi mutants under phosphate starvation, while these two lipids are enhanced in wild‐type. Based on our results, we propose a function of atLPTD1 in the transport of lipids from ER to chloroplast under phosphate starvation, which is combinatory with the function of TGD4.
Helping others or helping oneself? An episodic examination of the behavioral consequences of helping at work
Authors: Gabriel Allison S. , Koopman Joel , Rosen Christopher C. , Johnson Russell E.
Published: April 2017

Scholars have paid an increasing amount of attention to organizational citizenship behaviors (OCBs), with a particular emphasis on helping others at work. In addition, recent empirical work has focused on how OCB is an intraindividual phenomenon, such that employees vary daily in the extent to which they help others. However, one limitation of this research has been an overemphasis on well‐being consequences associated with daily helping (e.g., changes in affect and mental depletion) and far less attention on behavioral outcomes. In this study, we develop a self‐regulatory framework that articulates how helping others at work is a depleting experience that can lead to a reduction in subsequent acts of helping others, and an increase in behaviors aimed at helping oneself (i.e., engaging in political acts). We further theorize how two individual differences—prevention focus and political skill—serve as cross‐level moderators of these relations. In an experience sampling study of 91 full‐time employees across 10 consecutive workdays, our results illustrate that helping is a depleting act that makes individuals more likely to engage in self‐serving acts and less likely to help others. Moreover, the relation of helping acts with depletion is strengthened for employees who have higher levels of prevention focus.
Addition of Hydrogen Peroxide to Groundwater with Natural Iron Induces Water Disinfection by Photo‐Fenton at Circumneutral pH and other Photochemical Events
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Zapata Héctor Mario , Alvear‐Daza John Jairo , Rengifo‐Herrera Julián Andrés , Sanabria Janeth
Published: April 2017

Samples of natural groundwater (with low turbidity, neutral pH and 0.3 mg L−1 iron concentration) inoculated with Escherichia coli K‐12 were exposed to simulated solar light both in the presence and in the absence 10 mg L−1 of H2O2. Results demonstrated that the viability of E. coli (by DVC–FISH) was grounded to zero after 360 min of irradiation. This abatement could be caused by the oxidative stress induced by radicals or another photo‐induced reactive oxygen species. Two 23 factorial experimental designs enabled the evaluation of the effects of chemical factors on the inactivation of E. coli. The first experimental design considered the pH, iron and H2O2, while the second evaluated the ions fluoride, carbonate and phosphate found in groundwater. pH was found to play a key role in the inactivation of E. coli. The best reduction in viability was obtained at the lower pH (6.75), while a nonsignificant effect was observed when iron or H2O2 concentrations were raised. At higher concentrations, anions, such as carbonate and phosphate, negatively affected the E. coli abatement. However, a higher concentration of fluoride accelerated it. In all experiments, the pH was observed to rise to values higher than 8.0 units after 360 min of treatment.
Ovarian follicle development and genital tract characteristics in different birthweight gilts at 150 days of age
Authors: Almeida FRCL , Alvarenga Dias ALN , Moreira LP , Fiúza ATL , Chiarini‐Garcia H
Published: April 2017

Contents

In the last decades, selection for improved prolificacy has resulted in higher litter sizes and has thereby increased the proportion of low birthweight (LW) piglets. It is well documented that LW piglets have lower growth performance, muscle accretion and poor carcass quality. However, little is known about the relations of birthweight with subsequent reproductive performance in gilts. This study investigated the effects of birthweight on reproductive tract and ovarian follicle development in 150‐day‐old gilts. Twenty eight female pigs of different birthweight ranges (high‐HW: 1.8–2.2 kg; low‐LW: 0.8–1.2 kg) from higher parity commercial sows were reared until 150 days of age, and their body weights were recorded at weaning, end of nursery and end of the grower‐finisher phase. The animals were killed and their reproductive tracts collected for biometrical and histomorphometrical analysis. LW gilts showed significantly lower body weights and growth rates during all phases of production compared to their HW counterparts (p < .01). Most biometrical measurements of the reproductive tract were similar between the experimental groups, except vaginal length and the gonadossomatic index (relative ovarian weight), which were affected by birthweight class (p < .05). LW females also showed fewer medium size (3–5 mm; p < .01) ovarian follicles, pre‐antral follicles (p < .07) and more atretic follicles per ovarian cortex area (p < .05). Therefore, besides the effects on post‐natal growth performance, birthweight affects vaginal length and the follicular dynamics process, which may impair the reproductive performance of replacement gilts.
Suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid, a novel histone deacetylase inhibitor, improves the development and acetylation level of miniature porcine handmade cloning embryos
Authors: Sun JM , Cui KQ , Li ZP , Lu XR , Xu ZF , Liu QY , Huang B , Shi DS
Published: April 2017

Contents

Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis) can change the histone acetylation and significantly enhance the developmental competence of the pre‐implantation SCNT embryo. To select a proper histone deacetylase inhibitor to improve the success rate and potentially developmental ability of handmade cloning (HMC) embryos of miniature porcine, we compared the effect of two histone deacetylase inhibitors (SAHA vs. VPA) on HMC embryo development, their histone acetylation level and the expression level of relevant genes. The blastocyst rate and number of blastocyst cells of HMC embryos treated with SAHA (SAHA‐HMC) or VPA (VPA‐HMC) were significantly higher than those of control (Control‐HMC), respectively, but there were no significant difference between SAHA‐HMC and VPA‐HMC groups. In addition, the acetylation level (AcH4K8) of Control‐HMC and VPA‐HMC embryos at the blastocyst stage, respectively, was significantly lower than that of in vitro fertilized (IVF) and SAHA‐HMC embryos. However, the acetylation H4K8 of the blastocysts had no significant difference between SAHA‐HMC and the IVF groups. The SAHA‐HMC blastocysts indicated comparative expression levels of Oct4 and HDAC1 (histone deacetyltransferase gene) with those of IVF blastocysts. In contrast, the expression levels of Oct4 were lower and those of HDAC1 were higher in the VPA‐HMC and Control‐HMC blastocysts, respectively, compared to those of the IVF blastocysts. Our results demonstrated that the HMC embryos treated by SAHA could promote the pre‐implantation development and increase the levels of histone H4K8 acetylation and the expression of the OCT4 gene, yet decrease the expression of the HDAC1 gene to the comparable level of the IVF embryos. Our results proved that SAHA may be a better histone deacetylase inhibitor for porcine HMC compared to VPA, and furthermore, it may indicate that SAHA can effectively correct the abnormal histone acetylation during the HMC embryo development and subsequently improve the full‐term developmental potential of the HMC embryos after embryo transplantation.
Sequencing and functional validation of the JGI Brachypodium distachyon T‐DNA collection
Authors: Hsia Mon Mandy , O'Malley Ronan , Cartwright Amy , Nieu Rita , Gordon Sean P. , Kelly Sandra , Williams Tina G. , Wood Delilah F. , Zhao Yunjun , Bragg Jennifer , Jordan Mark , Pauly Markus , Ecker Joseph R. , Gu Yong , Vogel John P.
Published: April 2017

Due to a large and growing collection of genomic and experimental resources, Brachypodium distachyon has emerged as a powerful experimental model for the grasses. To add to these resources we sequenced 21 165 T‐DNA lines, 15 569 of which were produced in this study. This increased the number of unique insertion sites in the T‐DNA collection by 21 078, bringing the overall total to 26 112. Thirty‐seven per cent (9754) of these insertion sites are within genes (including untranslated regions and introns) and 28% (7217) are within 500 bp of a gene. Approximately 31% of the genes in the v.2.1 annotation have been tagged in this population. To demonstrate the utility of this collection, we phenotypically characterized six T‐DNA lines with insertions in genes previously shown in other systems to be involved in cellulose biosynthesis, hemicellulose biosynthesis, secondary cell wall development, DNA damage repair, wax biosynthesis and chloroplast synthesis. In all cases, the phenotypes observed supported previous studies, demonstrating the utility of this collection for plant functional genomics. The Brachypodium T‐DNA collection can be accessed at http://jgi.doe.gov/our-science/science-programs/plant-genomics/brachypodium/brachypodium-t-dna-collection/.
Four decades of the morphological dynamics of the lakes in the Jianghan Plain using Landsat observations
Authors: Shi Yuming , Feng Lian , Gong Jianya
Published: April 2017

Using four decades of Landsat observations between 1978 and 2014, we documented and studied the long‐term dynamics of the inundation conditions in the Jianghan Plain, Central China. Three morphological factors, including inundation areas, perimeters and shoreline developments (SDs), of the 51 selected lakes were calculated. Significant long‐term morphological changes were found in lakes in the Jianghan Plain. The total area dramatically increased from 838.0 km2 in 1978 to 1200.8 km2 in 1989, and an overall decreasing trend was observed in the later period. The changing patterns of the perimeters and SDs were different from the inundation areas, especially for the largest lake in this area (Honghu). The inconsistent changes between the inundation area and the other two morphological parameters were likely caused by increasing human activities. This study demonstrated the importance of remote sensing in obtaining multi‐decadal lake changes in terms of both the inundation area and the morphological complexity.
An Evidence‐Based Approach to Reducing Cardiac Telemetry Alarm Fatigue
Authors: Srinivasa Ekta , Mankoo Jaspreet , Kerr Charles
Published: April 2017

Background

It is estimated that between 80% and 99% of alarms in the clinical areas are in actionable alarms (Gross, Dahl, & Nielson). Alarm management is one of the Joint Commission's National Patient Safety Goals (2014) because sentinel events have directly been linked to the devices generating these alarms.

Purpose

At an acute care facility in Boston, a multidisciplinary team consisting of Nursing, Biomedical Engineers, Patient Safety and Providers was formed to conduct a pilot study on the state of telemetry alarms on a surgical floor.

Methods

An evidence‐based approach was taken utilizing Philips Real‐time data exporter alarms tracking software to capture all telemetry alarms during a 43‐day time span. Likewise, noise meters were placed near telemetry alarm speakers to track decibel levels within the aforementioned timeframe for 21 days. Analysis of the data showed that clinically insignificant Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVC) alarms accounted for more than 40% of all alarms in the unit within the time span, while also contributing to an average noise level of 58.49 dB. In response to the data, the interdisciplinary team approved to permanently default the settings for PAIR PVC, MULTIFORM PVC, and RUN PVC alarms to off.

Results

The results showed a 54% decrease in the rate of alarms per bed per day, and an average noise reduction of 2.3 dB between the two selected noise measurement areas.

Linking Evidence to Action

Organizing a multidisciplinary team provides an effective framework toward analyzing and addressing cardiac telemetry alarm fatigue. Looking at quantitative datasets for clinical care areas through various lenses helps identify opportunities for improvement in regards to highlighting alarms that are not actionable. Pilot changes to alarm parameters can be tested for their environmental impact in the care area.
Nurses’ Attitudes Toward the Single Checking of Medications
Authors: Cross Rachel , Bennett Paul N. , Ockerby Cherene , Wang Wei Chun , Currey Judy
Published: April 2017

Background and Aim

The policy of single over double checking of medications has been adopted by many health services; however, nurses’ attitudes toward single‐checking medications remains unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the attitudes of nurses who single check and administer medications in a setting where single checking has been in place for over a decade.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey design using the validated Single Checking Administration Medication Scale‐II to registered nurses (n = 299) working in one metropolitan teaching hospital in Victoria, Australia. Descriptive analyses for participants’ demographics were examined and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was performed on the survey items to represent the main themes of nurses’ attitudes toward single checking.

Results

Nurses reported single checking allowed a greater accountability as a professional nurse and more control over drug administration. The efficiency of single checking was welcomed by nurses through reductions in administration time and workplace interruptions. Nurses were more likely to adhere to drug administration procedures when single checking and this process facilitated drug knowledge updates. There was significant variance in attitudes amongst nurses based upon current appointment and years of clinical experience. Free text responses indicated nurses’ attitudes were situated in the context of the traditional double‐checking system.

Linking Evidence to Action

Understanding nurses’ attitudes toward single checking may assist health care services to positively address medication safety. Accountability, efficiency and knowledge are important for nurses when administering medications. Nurses’ attitudes are varied when correlated with demographic characteristics.
Potential of Future Thermoelectric Energy Recuperation for Aviation
Authors: Bode Christoph , Friedrichs Jens , Somdalen Ragnar , Köhler Jürgen , Büchter Kai-Daniel , Falter Christoph , Kling Ulrich , Ziolkowski Pawel , Zabrocki Knud , Müller Eckhard , Kožulović Dragan
Published: April 2017

Germany's Fifth Aeronautical Research Program (LuFo-V) gives the framework for the thermoelectric energy recuperation for aviation (TERA) project, which focuses on the positioning of thermoelectricity by means of a holistic reflection of technological possibilities and challenges for the adoption of thermoelectric generators (TEG) to aircraft systems. The aim of this paper is to show the project overview and some first estimations of the performance of an integrated TEG between the hot section of an engine and the cooler bypass flow. Therefore, casing integration positions close to different components are considered such as high-pressure turbine (HPT), low-pressure turbine (LPT), nozzle, or one of the interducts, where the temperature gradients are high enough for efficient TEG function. TEG efficiency is then to be optimized by taking into account occurring thermal resistance, heat transfer mechanisms, efficiency factors, as well as installation and operational system constrains like weight and space.
Complication of non-US guided procedure of aquafilling breast gel
Authors: Arslan Gozde , Celik Levent , Atasoy Mehmet Mahir , Celik Levent , Cubuk Rahmi
Published: April 2017

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Nonreciprocal charge transport in noncentrosymmetric superconductors
Authors: Wakatsuki Ryohei , Saito Yu , Hoshino Shintaro , Itahashi Yuki M. , Ideue Toshiya , Ezawa Motohiko , Iwasa Yoshihiro , Nagaosa Naoto
Published: April 2017

Giant nonreciprocal transport effect in noncentrosymmetric superconductors is studied both theoretically and experimentally.
Maximizing the performance of photothermal actuators by combining smart materials with supplementary advantages
Authors: Wang Tongyu , Torres David , Fernández Félix E. , Wang Chuan , Sepúlveda Nelson
Published: April 2017

This study demonstrates the use of light colors to selectively actuate micrometer-sized structures.
Diazotrophic Growth Allows Azotobacter vinelandii To Overcome the Deleterious Effects of a
glnE
Deletion
Authors: Mus Florence , Tseng Alex , Dixon Ray , Peters John W.
Published: April 2017

Overcoming the inhibitory effects of excess environmental ammonium on nitrogenase synthesis or activity and preventing ammonium assimilation have been considered strategies to increase the amount of fixed nitrogen transferred from bacterial to plant partners in associative or symbiotic plant-diazotroph relationships. The GlnE adenylyltransferase/adenylyl-removing enzyme catalyzes reversible adenylylation of glutamine synthetase (GS), thereby affecting the posttranslational regulation of ammonium assimilation that is critical for the appropriate coordination of carbon and nitrogen assimilation. Since GS is key to the sole ammonium assimilation pathway of
Azotobacter vinelandii
, attempts to obtain deletion mutants in the gene encoding GS (
glnA
) have been unsuccessful. We have generated a
glnE
deletion strain, thus preventing posttranslational regulation of GS. The resultant strain containing constitutively active GS is unable to grow well on ammonium-containing medium, as previously observed in other organisms, and can be cultured only at low ammonium concentrations. This phenotype is caused by the lack of downregulation of GS activity, resulting in high intracellular glutamine levels and severe perturbation of the ratio of glutamine to 2-oxoglutarate under excess-nitrogen conditions. Interestingly, the mutant can grow diazotrophically at rates comparable to those of the wild type. This observation suggests that the control of nitrogen fixation-specific gene expression at the transcriptional level in response to 2-oxoglutarate via NifA is sufficiently tight to alone regulate ammonium production at levels appropriate for optimal carbon and nitrogen balance.

IMPORTANCE
In this study, the characterization of the
glnE
knockout mutant of the model diazotroph
Azotobacter vinelandii
provides significant insights into the integration of the regulatory mechanisms of ammonium production and ammonium assimilation during nitrogen fixation. The work reveals the profound fidelity of nitrogen fixation regulation in providing ammonium sufficient for maximal growth but constraining energetically costly excess production. A detailed fundamental understanding of the interplay between the regulation of ammonium production and assimilation is of paramount importance in exploiting existing and potentially engineering new plant-diazotroph relationships for improved agriculture.