bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hypogonadism in testicular cancer patients is associated with risk factors of cardiovascular disease and the metabolic syndrome
Authors: Bogefors C. , Isaksson S. , Bobjer J. , Kitlinski M. , Leijonhufvud I. , Link K. , Giwercman A.
Published: May 2017

More than 95% of testicular cancer are cured but they are at increased long‐term risk of cardiovascular disease. The risk of cardiovascular disease and treatment intensity was reported, but it is unknown whether this effect of cancer therapy is direct or indirect, mediated through androgen deficiency. Our aim was, therefore, to evaluate whether testicular cancer patients have increased the prevalence of risk factors of cardiovascular disease and if these risk factors are associated with hypogonadism and/or the cancer treatment given. In 92 testicular cancer patients (mean 9.2 years follow‐up) and age‐matched controls, blood samples were analysed for lipids, total testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), glucose and insulin. An estimate of insulin resistance, HOMAir was calculated. Hypogonadism was defined as total testosterone < 10 nmol/L and/or LH > 10 IU/L and/or androgen replacement. In testicular cancer men with hypogonadism, compared with eugonadal patients, higher insulin (mean difference: 3.10 mIU/L; p = 0.002) and HOMAir (mean difference: 0.792; p = 0.007) were detected. Hypogonadism group presented with increased risk (OR = 4.4; p = 0.01) of metabolic syndrome. Most associations between the treatment given and the metabolic parameters became statistically non‐significant after adjustment for hypogonadism. In conclusion, testicular cancer patients with signs of hypogonadism presented with significantly increased risk of metabolic syndrome and investigation of endocrine and metabolic parameters is warranted in these patients.
Spermatozoa from males with reduced fecundity exhibit differential DNA methylation patterns
Authors: Laqqan M. , Tierling S. , Alkhaled Y. , Lo Porto C. , Solomayer E. F. , Hammadeh M.
Published: May 2017

Infertility affects 10–15% of couples, and approximately 50% of cases are linked to male factor infertility. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the DNA methylation patterns in spermatozoa from males who are suffering from a reduction in fecundity. Thirty samples were subjected to 450K arrays as a screening study to evaluate the variation in sperm DNA methylation levels between cases and controls groups, and then four CpG sites (cg05799088, cg07227024, cg16338278, and cg08408433) underwent to deep bisulfite sequencing to validate the observed methylation differences in 111 samples (56 proven fertile males as ‘controls’ and 55 males suffering from a reduction in fecundity as ‘cases’). A significant difference in the mean methylation level was found between cases and controls in the CpGs of PRICKLE2 gene‐related amplicon (CpG1, p ≤ 0.002, and CpG2, p ≤ 0.004) and CpG of ALS2CR12 gene‐related amplicon (CpG1, p ≤ 0.015, and CpG2, p ≤ 0.009). Besides, a significant difference was found at seven from thirteen CpGs tested in the ALDH3B2 gene amplicon CpG2, CpG6, CpG9, CpG10, CpG11, CpG12, and CpG13 (p ≤ 0.005, p ≤ 0.004, p ≤ 0.012, p ≤ 0.028, p ≤ 0.012, p ≤ 0.009, and p ≤ 0.001, respectively). In addition, the results showed that nine CpGs out of the twenty‐six within the PTGIR gene‐related amplicon (CpG4, CpG6, CpG8, CpG9, CpG11, CpG15, CpG19, CpG23, and CpG26) had a significant difference in their mean methylation level (p ≤ 0.006, p ≤ 0.009, p ≤ 0.003, p ≤ 0.003, p ≤ 0.007, p ≤ 0.002, p ≤ 0.018, p ≤ 0.018, and p ≤ 0.040, respectively) in the case vs. control group. In conclusion, an alteration in the methylation levels of sperm DNA from males with reduced fecundity was observed. In addition, an association between changes in the methylation level for these CpGs and different semen parameters has been found.
Maintenance of the contractile phenotype in corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells by Myocardin gene therapy ameliorates erectile dysfunction in bilateral cavernous nerve injury rats
Authors: Zhang H.‐B. , Wang Z.‐Q. , Chen F.‐Z. , Ding W. , Liu W.‐B. , Chen Z.‐R. , He S.‐H. , Wei A.‐Y.
Published: May 2017

The pathophysiology of erectile dysfunction post radical prostatectomy is not clearly clarified, and the low efficacy of traditional PDE5i treatment remains a major complaint in contemporary practice. This study aimed to demonstrate phenotypic modulation in bilateral cavernous nerve injury (BCNI) rats within 7 days, and subsequently validate gene therapy with Myocardin (Mycod) by maintaining a contractile phenotype in corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells. Initially, 36 male rats were randomly divided into BCNI and negative control (NC) groups for histological and phenotypic molecular measurements at 3, 5, and 7 days. Afterwards, an additional 30 rats received a single intra‐cavernous injection of 50 μL PBS, Ad‐Myocd (1 × 1011 pfu/ml) or Ad‐vector for 10 animals each, namely the NC+PBS, BCNI+Ad‐Myocd, and BCNI+Ad‐vector groups. Finally, the validity and mechanism of Myocd transfection was explored at 21 days in vivo and 48 h in vitro. Western blotting showed canonical declines in Myocd, α‐SMA, and Calponin expression, as well as elevated Osteopontin (OPN) expression, before corporeal morphological and SM‐to‐collagen ratio changes at day 5 after injury. Overexpression of Myocd maintained the contractile phenotype of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells, ameliorated bilateral cavernous nerve injury rat erectile dysfunction, as well as promoted cell contractility and suppressed proliferative capacity. Simultaneously, confocal imaging revealed up‐regulation and co‐localization of serum response factor in gene‐transferred cells. In conclusion, our study is the first to investigate corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells phenotypes in the early stages of cavernous injury model rats, and Myocd reversed phenotypic modulation by activating serum response factor. The experimental results demonstrated the validity of gene therapy for erectile dysfunction.
Predictive Factors Upon Discontinuation of Renal Replacement Therapy for Long‐Term Chronic Dialysis and Death in Acute Kidney Injury Patients
Authors: Yang Tingting , Sun Si , Lin Liping , Han Mei , Liu Qiang , Zeng Xiaoxi , Zhao Yuliang , Li Yupei , Su Baihai , Huang Songmin , Yang Lichuan
Published: May 2017

The specific timing for discontinuing renal replacement therapy (RRT) in acute kidney injury (AKI) patients is debatable. The predictive abilities of variables at the time of discontinuation of RRT for the long‐term prognoses of patients have not been explored. This study aimed to explore the prognostic factors upon discontinuation of RRT for long‐term chronic dialysis and death of patients with acute RRT‐requiring AKI, thus improving decision making regarding the discontinuation of RRT and the follow‐up of patients thereafter. A cohort of 302 AKI patients who required acute RRT and remained alive and free of dialysis for at least 30 days after discharge from January 2009 to December 2012 were followed up. The predictive abilities of general characteristics, RRT details, and variables upon discontinuation of RRT for long‐term chronic dialysis and all‐cause death were evaluated using Cox proportional hazards models. Kaplan–Meier analysis with a log‐rank test was used to compare the survival curves between the strata of levels of good predictors upon discontinuation of RRT. After a median follow‐up time of 4.1 years, 20 (6.6%) patients initiated chronic dialysis and 56 (18.5%) patients died. A higher CysC level upon discontinuation of RRT (HR 1.520, 95% CI 1.082–2.135; P = 0.016), comorbid chronic kidney disease, and a higher non‐renal Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) were independently predictive for chronic dialysis. The hemoglobin level upon discontinuation of RRT was inversely predictive of death (HR 0.986, 95% CI 0.973–0.999; P = 0.035), and comorbid malignancy, the presence of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, and a higher non‐renal CCI also predicted death. Urine output upon discontinuation of RRT was marginally inversely predictive of death (HR 0.997, 95% CI 0.994–1.000; P = 0.056). Patients who discontinued RRT with CysC levels <2.97 mg/L, hemoglobin levels >85 g/L, and urine output >1130 mL/24 h showed significantly higher non‐chronic dialysis and survival rates according to a log‐rank test. Our study suggested that upon discontinuation of RRT, higher serum CysC levels had the most promising predictive value for long‐term chronic dialysis, and lower hemoglobin levels predicted long‐term death; lower urine output also marginally predicted long‐term death. Based on the remission of the comprehensive condition, lower CysC levels and higher hemoglobin levels and urine output should be considered in the decision to stop RRT. Patients showing worse levels of these indices upon discontinuation of RRT should undergo stricter follow‐up and treatment to improve long‐term outcomes.
The catechol‐O‐methyltransferase (COMT) Val158Met genotype modulates working memory‐related dorsolateral prefrontal response and performance in bipolar disorder
Authors: Miskowiak KW , Kjærstad HL , Støttrup MM , Svendsen AM , Demant KM , Hoeffding LK , Werge TM , Burdick KE , Domschke K , Carvalho AF , Vieta E , Vinberg M , Kessing LV , Siebner HR , Macoveanu J
Published: May 2017

Objectives

Cognitive dysfunction affects a substantial proportion of patients with bipolar disorder (BD), and genetic‐imaging paradigms may aid in the elucidation of mechanisms implicated in this symptomatic domain. The Val allele of the functional Val158Met polymorphism of the catechol‐O‐methyltransferase (COMT) gene is associated with reduced prefrontal cortex dopamine and exaggerated working memory‐related prefrontal activity. This functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study investigated for the first time whether the COMT Val158Met genotype modulates prefrontal activity during spatial working memory in BD.

Methods

Sixty‐four outpatients with BD in full or partial remission were stratified according to COMT Val158Met genotype (ValVal [n=13], ValMet [n=34], and MetMet [n=17]). The patients completed a spatial n‐back working memory task during fMRI and the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB) Spatial Working Memory test outside the scanner.

Results

During high working memory load (2‐back vs 1‐back), Val homozygotes displayed decreased activity relative to ValMet individuals, with Met homozygotes displaying intermediate levels of activity in the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) (P=.016). Exploratory whole‐brain analysis revealed a bilateral decrease in working memory‐related dlPFC activity in the ValVal group vs the ValMet group which was not associated with differences in working memory performance during fMRI. Outside the MRI scanner, Val carriers performed worse in the CANTAB Spatial Working Memory task than Met homozygotes (P≤.006), with deficits being most pronounced in Val homozygotes.

Conclusions

The association between Val allelic load, dlPFC activity and WM impairment points to a putative role of aberrant PFC dopamine tonus in the cognitive impairments in BD.
Annotation: Developing a national programme for VTE prevention
Authors: Roberts Lara N. , Durkin Mike , Arya Roopen
Published: May 2017

The National Venous Thromboembolism Prevention Programme was launched in England, in 2010. Its central objective was to reduce morbidity and mortality from preventable deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism through introduction of a comprehensive systematic approach. The cornerstone of the programme was the introduction of mandatory documented risk assessment for venous thromboembolism, supported by national thromboprophylaxis guidance. Despite widespread uptake of risk assessment, measuring the impact of the national programme on outcomes has proved challenging. The aim of this paper is to review the implementation and outcomes of the national programme.
Impact of body mass index on robot‐assisted radical cystectomy with intracorporeal urinary diversion
Authors: Ahmadi Nariman , Clifford Thomas G. , Miranda Gus , Cai Jie , Aron Monish , Desai Mihir M. , Gill Inderbir S.
Published: May 2017

Objectives

To determine the impact of body mass index (BMI) on peri‐operative and oncological outcomes after robot‐assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) with intracorporeal urinary diversion.

Patients and Methods

A total of 216 patients undergoing RARC, extended lymphadenectomy and intracorporeal urinary diversion, between July 2010 and December 2015, were categorized into four BMI groups according to the 2004 World Health Organization obesity classification groups: <25 kg/m2 (normal); 25–29.9 kg/m2 (pre‐obese); 30–34.9 kg/m2 (obese class I); and ≥35 kg/m2 (obese class II). Pre‐, intra‐ and postoperative characteristics, oncological outcomes, and 90‐day complications were compared using sas statistical software.

Results

All 216 patients underwent intracorporeal urinary diversion, with 68 (32%) undergoing orthotopic neobladder construction. Demographics were similar among the BMI groups with regard to median (range) age (71.8 [35– 95] years), gender (80.6% men), Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) score (66.2% with CCI score 0–1), pathological stage (carcinoma in situ to T2: 55.1%, T3–T4/N0: 18.5%, Tx/N+: 26.4%), median (interquartile range) node count [41 (28, 53)] and positive soft tissue margin rate (4.2%). Obese patients had greater blood loss and longer operating time (P = 0.02 and P = 0.04, respectively). There were no significant differences in length of hospital stay, transfusion rates, readmission or 90‐day overall and high‐grade complication rates (P = 0.16, P = 0.96, P = 0.89, P = 0.22 and P = 0.51, respectively). At a median (range) follow‐up of 13 months (15 days to 4.8 years), recurrence‐free survival (P = 0.92) and overall survival (P = 0.68) were similar among the groups.

Conclusion

The results of the present study show that RARC with intracorporeal urinary diversion is safe and feasible in obese patients with bladder cancer. BMI was not associated with significant differences in peri‐operative, pathological or early oncological outcomes.
Cytotoxic effect of a family of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor antagonists in colorectal and pancreatic cancer cell lines
Authors: Ammazzalorso Alessandra , De Lellis Laura , Florio Rosalba , Bruno Isabella , De Filippis Barbara , Fantacuzzi Marialuigia , Giampietro Letizia , Maccallini Cristina , Perconti Silvia , Verginelli Fabio , Cama Alessandro , Amoroso Rosa
Published: May 2017

Recent studies report an interesting role of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR) antagonists in different tumor models, being these compounds able to perturb metabolism and viability in cancer cells. In this work, the identification of a novel PPAR antagonist, showing inhibitory activity on PPARα and a weaker antagonism on PPARγ, is described. The activity of this compound and of a series of chemical analogues was investigated in selected tumor cell lines, expressing both PPARα and PPARγ. Data obtained show a dose‐dependent cytotoxic effect of the novel PPAR antagonist in colorectal and pancreatic cancer models.
Understanding the school experiences of children and adolescents with serious chronic illness: a systematic meta‐review
Authors: Lum A. , Wakefield C. E. , Donnan B. , Burns M. A. , Fardell J. E. , Marshall G. M.
Published: May 2017

Background

Serious chronic illness can have a detrimental effect on school attendance, participation and engagement, leaving affected students at risk of failing to meet their developmental potential. An improved understanding of factors that help to explain or mitigate this risk can help educators and health professionals deliver the most effective support. This meta‐review critiqued the available evidence examining the link between six chronic illnesses (asthma, cancer, chronic kidney diseases, heart diseases, cystic fibrosis and gastrointestinal diseases) and children's and adolescents' school experiences and outcomes, as well as investigating the medical, school, psychosocial and sociodemographic factors that are linked to poorer or better school outcomes.

Methods

We searched CINAHL, Cochrane Database, EMBASE, ERIC, MEDLINE, ProQuest Theses and Dissertations, and PsycINFO (2000–2015). Systematic and narrative reviews, and meta‐analyses, of original studies examining students' subjective school experiences and objective school outcomes were eligible. We used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses criteria to critically appraise all systematic reviews. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system guided our recommendations for practice and research.

Results

Eighteen reviews of 172 studies including more than 40 000 students were eligible. Therefore, we chose to conduct a meta‐review to provide an overview of the literature on the relationship between chronic illness and school experiences and outcomes. We also explored the associated medical, school, psychosocial and sociodemographic factors affecting the relationship between illness and school experiences and outcomes.

Conclusion

Students with chronic illness demonstrate mixed school experiences and outcomes that are often worse than students without chronic illness. Modifiable factors, such as students' engagement with school, may be novel yet appropriate targets of educational support to ensure that these students reach their full schooling potential.
Assessment of meibomian glands and tear film in post‐refractive surgery patients
Authors: Jung Ji Won , Kim Jung Yong , Chin Hee Seung , Suh Young Ju , Kim Tae‐im , Seo Kyoung Yul
Published: May 2017

Importance

Corneal refractive surgery may impact meibomian gland and tear film in post‐refractive surgery patients.

Background

To compare ocular surface parameters between post‐refractive surgery patients and normal controls.

Design

Cross‐sectional single centre study.

Participants

A total of 120 eyes of 120 subjects were divided into three groups: (i) 60 controls and 60 patients underwent corneal refractive surgery at least 12 months ago; (ii) 30 post‐laser in‐situ keratomileusis (LASIK) patients and (iii) 30 post‐laser epithelial keratomileusis (LASEK)/photo‐refractive keratectomy (PRK) patients.

Methods

Tear meniscus height, non‐invasive keratographic tear film break‐up time and meibography were measured using the Keratograph® 5M. Fluorescein break‐up time, ocular surface staining, examination of lid margins and meibomian glands, Schirmer's test and Ocular Surface Disease Index questionnaire were performed.

Main Outcome Measures

Ordinary logistic regression was performed to evaluate the impact of clinical variables including refractive surgery on the meiboscores.

Results

In post‐LASIK patients, ocular surface parameters including Ocular Surface Disease Index scores, fluorescein break‐up time and staining scores, except Schirmer's scores, were significantly worse than those in controls (P < 0.050). Ocular surface staining scores in post‐LASEK/PRK patients was higher than that in the controls (P = 0.001). In post‐refractive surgery patients, grade of meibomian gland parameters and meiboscores were worse than those of controls (all P < 0.050). Histories of refractive surgery were associated with high meiboscore (β = 1.100, P = 0.043 for LASIK and β = 1.039, P = 0.042 for LASEK/PRK).

Conclusions and relevance

Corneal refractive surgery may adversely affect the ocular surface, and a reduction of functional meibomian glands can contribute to chronic tear film dysfunction after corneal refractive surgery.
Contact dermatitis as an adverse reaction to some topically used European herbal medicinal products – part 4: Solidago virgaurea–Vitis vinifera
Authors: Minciullo Paola L. , Calapai Gioacchino , Miroddi Marco , Mannucci Carmen , Chinou Ioanna , Gangemi Sebastiano , Schmidt Richard J.
Published: May 2017

This review focuses on contact dermatitis as an adverse effect of a selection of topically used herbal medicinal products for which the European Medicines Agency has completed an evaluation up to the end of November 2013 and for which a Community herbal monograph – now (since 2014) called a ‘European Union herbal monograph’ – has been produced. The present part 4 addresses species from Solidago virgaurea L. to Vitis vinifera L.
Dual kidney transplant techniques: A systematic review
Authors: Cocco Annelise , Shahrestani Sara , Cocco Nicholas , Hameed Ahmer , Yuen Lawrence , Ryan Brendan , Hawthorne Wayne , Lam Vincent , Pleass Henry
Published: May 2017

Background

Dual kidney transplantation (DKT) was developed to improve outcomes from transplantation of extended criteria donors (ECD). This study examined which surgical techniques have been reported for DKT and whether any technique had superior patient and graft survival.

Method

Electronic databases were searched for published studies mapping to MESH terms: “kidney or renal” AND “transplan*” AND “dual or double.” Single case reports, studies of patients less than 18 years old, studies which did not describe the surgical technique, and studies that did not report patient or graft survival were excluded.

Results

Fifteen reports of 434 DKT recipients were identified. Three techniques were described: bilateral placement; unilateral placement with separate anastomoses; and unilateral placement with patch anastomoses. Patient survival across all three techniques was over 95% at 1 year, and graft survival was also similar at over 90%. Rates of delayed graft function were between 20% and 30% across all techniques.

Conclusion

The three techniques have equivalent delayed graft function as well as patient and graft survival rates. This is an encouraging result as it means that the surgeon can choose to use the technique which is most appropriate for their own skills and for the patient.
Intraepidermal Merkel cell carcinoma: A case series of a rare entity with clinical follow up
Authors: Jour George , Aung Phyu P. , Rozas‐Muñoz Eduardo , Curry Johnathan L. , Prieto Victor , Ivan Doina
Published: May 2017

Background

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but aggressive cutaneous carcinoma. MCC typically involves dermis and although epidermotropism has been reported, MCC strictly intraepidermal or in situ (MCCIS) is exceedingly rare. Most of the cases of MCCIS described so far have other associated lesions, such as squamous or basal cell carcinoma, actinic keratosis and so on. Herein, we describe 3 patients with MCC strictly in situ, without a dermal component.

Methods

Our patients were elderly. 2 of the lesions involved the head and neck area and 1 was on a finger. All tumors were strictly intraepidermal in the diagnostic biopsies, and had histomorphologic features and an immunohistochemical profile supporting the diagnosis of MCC. Excisional biopsies were performed in 2 cases and failed to reveal dermal involvement by MCC or other associated malignancies.

Results and Conclusion

Our findings raise the awareness that MCC strictly in situ does exist and it should be included in the differential diagnosis of Paget's or extramammary Paget's disease, pagetoid squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma and other neoplasms that typically show histologically pagetoid extension of neoplastic cells. Considering the limited number of cases reported to date, the diagnosis of isolated MCCIS should not warrant a change in management from the typical MCC.
Idiopathic lymphoplasmacellular mucositis of the lips: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Liu Ren‐Feng , Chen Chun‐Bing , Kuo Tseng‐tong , Chung Wen‐Hung
Published: May 2017

Idiopathic lymphoplasmacellular mucositis (ILPM) is a group of disorders histologically characterized by dense infiltrates of lymphocytes and plasma cells in submucosa. These lesions were initially observed on the glans penis and vulva, and later on buccal mucosa, lips, gingiva, tongue, epiglottis, larynx and other mucosal surfaces have also been reported. We have reviewed the previously reported cases of ILPM with lip involvement, outlining the clinical presentation, treatment and outcome of the entity to date. The etiology of ILPM is unknown, and the diagnosis is largely one of exclusion. To date, no consensus or consistently effective treatment for ILPM is available. Herein, we report an 18‐year‐old woman presented with markedly swollen lips with severe erosions, bleeding and yellow to black crusts who was diagnosed to have ILPM by histopathological study. The case occurred on rare lip site with an unusual appearance. Various treatment modalities were tried, but the responses were unsatisfactory and the lesion only responded to long‐term administration of oral steroids.
Earthquake insurance pricing: a risk‐based approach
Authors: Lin Jeng‐Hsiang
Published: May 2017

Flat earthquake premiums are ‘uniformly’ set for a variety of buildings in many countries, neglecting the fact that the risk of damage to buildings by earthquakes is based on a wide range of factors. How these factors influence the insurance premiums is worth being studied further. Proposed herein is a risk‐based approach to estimate the earthquake insurance rates of buildings. Examples of application of the approach to buildings located in Taipei city of Taiwan were examined. Then, the earthquake insurance rates for the buildings investigated were calculated and tabulated. To fulfil insurance rating, the buildings were classified into 15 model building types according to their construction materials and building height. Seismic design levels were also considered in insurance rating in response to the effect of seismic zone and construction years of buildings. This paper may be of interest to insurers, actuaries, and private and public sectors of insurance.
Residual thymic tissue and lymph node involvement by acute myeloid leukaemia presenting as mediastinal, strongly 18FDG‐PET‐positive masses
Authors: Maschmeyer Georg , Brink Ingo , Jähne Doris , Arnold Renate , Schega Olaf
Published: May 2017

We report on a multidisciplinary management of a 68‐year‐old AML patient presenting with a PET‐positive mediastinal tumour typical for lymph node metastasis. It was removed via minimally invasive thoracoscopic intervention and was identified as a thymus residual infiltrated by AML. Follow‐up PET‐CT scan after resection and remission induction chemotherapy was completely normal. To our knowledge, this is the first documented case report of AML presenting with PET‐positive infiltrates of thymic and lymph node tissue along the aortic bow mimicking a second intrathoracic malignancy. Our observation indicates the usefulness of this imaging technique and supports clarification of these unusual findings in AML patients, in case of need also by invasive diagnostic procedures, to enable an adequate therapeutic decision.
Increased expression of STIM1/Orai1 in platelets of stroke patients predictive of poor outcomes
Authors: Dong M. , Zheng N. , Ren L. J. , Zhou H. , Liu J.
Published: May 2017

Background and purpose

The platelet activation that is mediated by store‐operated Ca2+ entry via stromal interaction molecule (STIM1) and Orai1 Ca2+ influx channels has been shown to play a key role in ischaemic stroke (IS). This study aimed to evaluate the impact of platelet STIM1/Orai1 protein expression on outcomes of IS.

Methods

A total of 160 patients with acute non‐cardioembolic IS, among whom 45 patients had small‐vessel diseases and 115 patients had large‐vessel diseases, were evaluated. Patients were divided into two groups according to their baseline platelet STIM1/Orai1 protein expression: high‐expression group (HG) (n = 80) and low‐expression group (LG) (n = 80). Univariate and multivariate regression models were used to assess the correlation between STIM1/Orai1 expression and clinical outcomes, which included stroke severity that was measured based on the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale and Stroke Impact Scale (SIS) at baseline and during the 3‐month follow‐up.

Results

There were no significant differences in age, sex and cardiovascular risk factors between patients in HG and LG. However, HG had very high levels of biomarkers such as glycosylated hemoglobin, C‐reactive protein, homocysteine and high mobility group box‐1 protein (all P < 0.05). Although the baseline stroke severity (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score) was not obviously higher in HG than in LG, patients showed a better recovery score (SIS score) in LG than in HG (90.75 ± 13.65 vs. 80.68 ± 7.09; P = 0.022). STIM1/Orai1 expression was an independent predictor of the 3‐month stroke recovery (hazard ratio, 4.543; 95% confidence interval, 1.941–29.145; P = 0.029).

Conclusions

A high expression level of platelet Orai1/STIMI1 was associated with poor clinical outcome (mortality and recurrence) and functional recovery (SIS scores) during the 3‐month follow‐up. Thus, we propose that these proteins are strongly predictive of life quality in patients with IS.
The contagion versus interdependence controversy between hedge funds and equity markets
Authors: Kim Tae Yoon , Lee Hee Soo
Published: May 2017

This study considers the ‘contagion versus interdependence’ controversy between hedge funds and equity markets. We find that contagion effects break down the established interdependence between hedge funds and equity markets and conditional return smoothing could play a key role in the contagion process by increasing or decreasing the contagion likelihood during crisis and prosperity. It is noted that the return smoothing tends to produce a biased pattern of returns during crisis and a decreased amount of return during prosperity. These findings are obtained by linking a single equation error correction model to a factor model and carrying out quantile regression, Z‐test and Wald–Wolfowitz runs tests.
Clinical and histopathological features of myofibrillar myopathy in Warmblood horses
Authors: Valberg S. J. , Nicholson A. M. , Lewis S. S. , Reardon R. A. , Finno C. J.
Published: May 2017

Background

To report a novel exertional myopathy, myofibrillar myopathy (MFM) in Warmblood (WB) horses.

Objectives

To 1) describe the distinctive clinical and myopathic features of MFM in Warmblood horses and 2) investigate the potential inheritance of MFM in a Warmblood family.

Study design

Retrospective selection of MFM cases and prospective evaluation of a Warmblood family.

Methods

Retrospectively, muscle biopsies were selected from Warmblood horses diagnosed with MFM and clinical histories obtained (n = 10). Prospectively, muscle biopsies were obtained from controls (n = 8) and a three generation WB family (n = 11). Samples were assessed for histopathology [scored 0–3], fibre types, cytoskeletal and Z disc protein aggregates, electron microscopic alterations (EM) and muscle glycogen concentrations.

Results

Myofibrillar myopathy‐affected cases experienced exercise intolerance, reluctance to go forward, stiffness and poorly localised lameness. Abnormal aggregates of the cytoskeletal protein desmin were found in up to 120 type 2a and a few type 2x myofibres of MFM cases. Desmin positive fibres did not stain for developmental myosin, α actinin or dystrophin. Scores for internalised myonuclei (score MFM 0.83 ± 0.67, controls 0.22 ± 0.45), anguloid atrophy (MFM 0.95 ± 0.55, controls 0.31 ± 0.37) and total myopathic scores (MFM 5.85 ± 2.10, controls 1.41 ± 2.17) were significantly higher in MFM cases vs. controls. Focal Z disc degeneration, myofibrillar disruption and accumulation of irregular granular material was evident in MFM cases. Muscle glycogen concentrations were similar between MFM cases and controls. In the Warmblood family, desmin positive aggregates were found in myofibres of the founding dam and in horses from two subsequent generations.

Main limitations

Restricted sample size due to limited availability of well phenotyped cases.

Conclusions

A distinctive and potentially heritable form of MFM exists in Warmblood horses that present with exercise intolerance and abnormal hindlimb gait. Muscle tissue is characterised by ectopic accumulation of desmin and Z disc and myofibrillar degeneration.
Determination of the appropriate parameters for K‐means clustering using selection of region clusters based on density DBSCAN (SRCD‐DBSCAN)
Authors: Limwattanapibool Onapa , Arch‐int Somjit
Published: May 2017

K‐means clustering can be highly accurate when the number of clusters and the initial cluster centre are appropriate. An inappropriate determination of the number of clusters or the initial cluster centre decreases the accuracy of K‐means clustering. However, determining these values is problematic. To solve these problems, we used density‐based spatial clustering of application with noise (DBSCAN) because it does not require a predetermined number of clusters; however, it has some significant drawbacks. Using DBSCAN with high‐dimensional data and data with potentially different densities decreases the accuracy to some degree. Therefore, the objective of this research is to improve the efficiency of DBSCAN through a selection of region clusters based on density DBSCAN to automatically find the appropriate number of clusters and initial cluster centres for K‐means clustering. In the proposed method, DBSCAN is used to perform clustering and to select the appropriate clusters by considering the density of each cluster. Subsequently, the appropriate region data are chosen from the selected clusters. The experimental results yield the appropriate number of clusters and the appropriate initial cluster centres for K‐means clustering. In addition, the results of the selection of region clusters based on density DBSCAN method are more accurate than those obtained by traditional methods, including DBSCAN and K‐means and related methods such as Partitioning‐based DBSCAN (PDBSCAN) and PDBSCAN by applying the Ant Clustering Algorithm DBSCAN (PACA‐DBSCAN).
Fuzzy logic and differential evolution‐based hybrid system for gesture recognition using Kinect sensor
Authors: Saha Sriparna , Konar Amit , Datta Shreyasi
Published: May 2017

The paper introduces a novel approach to gesture recognition aimed at physical disorder identification capable of handling variations in disorder expressions. The gestures are captured by Microsoft's Kinect sensor. The work is segmented into four main parts. The first stage describes a “relax” posture through four centroids depicting four portions of the skeletal structure. In the second stage, when the subject is showing symptoms of any one of the 16 physical disorders, then the skeletal structure distorts; the bilateral structure is lost, and concept of “centroid” computation does not seem relevant. Hence, in the second stage, “motion points” depicting shifted centroids for the distorted posture are computed by distance maximization with respect to the four corresponding centroids obtained for the relax posture. This process is carried out by adapting the weights assigned to each joint by differential evolution. In the third stage, eight features are figured out on the basis of Euclidean distances and angles among the motion points of the distorted gesture. In the final stage, gestures are recognized using an interval type‐2 fuzzy set‐based classifier with 91.37% accuracy.
Defining a Safe Operating Space for inland recreational fisheries
Authors: Carpenter Stephen R , Brock William A , Hansen Gretchen J A , Hansen Jonathan F , Hennessy Joseph M , Isermann Daniel A , Pedersen Eric J , Perales K Martin , Rypel Andrew L , Sass Greg G , Tunney Tyler D , Vander Zanden M Jake
Published: May 2017

The Safe Operating Space (SOS) of a recreational fishery is the multidimensional region defined by levels of harvest, angler effort, habitat, predation and other factors in which the fishery is sustainable into the future. SOS boundaries exhibit trade‐offs such that decreases in harvest can compensate to some degree for losses of habitat, increases in predation and increasing value of fishing time to anglers. Conversely, high levels of harvest can be sustained if habitat is intact, predation is low, and value of fishing effort is moderate. The SOS approach recognizes limits in several dimensions: at overly high levels of harvest, habitat loss, predation, or value of fishing effort, the stock falls to a low equilibrium biomass. Recreational fisheries managers can influence harvest and perhaps predation, but they must cope with trends that are beyond their control such as changes in climate, loss of aquatic habitat or social factors that affect the value of fishing effort for anglers. The SOS illustrates opportunities to manage harvest or predation to maintain quality fisheries in the presence of trends in climate, social preferences or other factors that are not manageable.
Modulation of heme oxygenase‐1 expression and activity affects streptozotocin‐induced diabetic nephropathy in rats
Authors: Ali Marwa A.M. , Heeba Gehan H. , El‐Sheikh Azza A.K.
Published: May 2017

Heme oxygenase (HO)‐1 has exhibited nephro‐protective actions in different animal models; however, its full mechanistic potential in diabetic nephropathy (DN) has not yet been elucidated. Hence, the present study has been undertaken by inducing DN in rats using streptozotocin (50 mg/kg i.p.), with or without either HO‐1 inducer; hemin (HM; 40 μmol/kg, s.c.), or HO‐1 blocker; zinc protoporphyrin‐IX (ZnPP; 50 μmol/kg, i.p.), for one month. Compared to control, rats with DN suffered from hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia, with signs of renal damage, as assessed by distortion in renal histopathologic architecture and kidney function. Renal oxidative/nitrosative stress was evident by increased malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, myeloperoxidase, with decreased reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase. DN group also exhibited high renal expression of the pro‐inflammatory cytokine; tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, and the apoptotic marker; caspase 3, assessed by Western blot. Renal HO‐1 protein expression and activity were increased in DN rats compared to control. Administration of HM, but not ZnPP, to DN rats improved kidney function, histopathologic features, lipid profile, TNF‐α, and caspase 3 expressions, with no effect on blood glucose level. HM increased, while ZnPP decreased renal HO‐1 activity in DN rats. It is noteworthy that neither intervention affected HO‐1 activity or renal oxidative capacity in non‐diabetic rats. Interestingly, the expression of HO‐1 was upregulated by both HM and ZnPP in DN rats. In conclusion, activation of HO‐1 via HM ameliorated renal damage in STZ‐induced DN in rats, probably through antioxidant, anti‐nitrosative, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐apoptotic mechanisms.
Branched chain amino acids supplementation modulates TGF‐β1/Smad signaling pathway and interleukins in CCl4‐induced liver fibrosis
Authors: Khedr Naglaa F. , Khedr Eman G.
Published: May 2017

The alterations and low levels of circulating branched chain amino acids (BCAAs), leucine, isoleucine, and valine, are associated with liver diseases. The study was designed to evaluate hepatoprotective effect of BCAAs on CCl4‐induced liver fibrosis and to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects in rats. In all, 30 male rats were divided into three groups. Control group (n = 10) and CCl4 group (n = 10), where rats were injected with CCl4 (1 mL/kg of 0.5 : 1 v/v injected i.p. twice weekly for 12 weeks). In CCl4 + BCAAs group (n = 10), rats were injected with similar doses of CCl4 and supplemented with a mixture of 600 mg/kg BCAAs (2 : 1 : 1.2 leucine : isoleucine : valine) by oral gavage, three times/week for 12 weeks. Liver fibrosis was assessed by measuring total bilirubin, total protein, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase, hydroxyproline content, and serum IL‐6 and IL‐10. Histopathologic studies and α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) were detected immunohistochemically in liver. Serum insulin level, blood glucose, liver malodialdehyde concentration (MDA), glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were quantified. TGF‐β1, Smad3, and Smad7 gene expressions were estimated by qRT‐PCR. BCAAs suppressed liver fibrosis induced by CCl4 treatment. BCAAs modulated liver indices and downregulated TGF‐β1, Smad3, and Smad7 expressions in hepatocytes. BCAAs enhanced liver antioxidant enzyme activities (P < 0.001), reduced serum levels of TGF‐β1, IL‐6, and IL‐10 compared to CCL4 group and ameliorated histopathologic changes in rat liver. BCAAs may have a protective role against liver fibrosis via antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory mechanisms.
Differential regulation of protein tyrosine kinase signalling by Dock and the PTP61F variants
Authors: Willoughby Lee F. , Manent Jan , Allan Kirsten , Lee Han , Portela Marta , Wiede Florian , Warr Coral , Meng Tzu‐Ching , Tiganis Tony , Richardson Helena E.
Published: May 2017

Tyrosine phosphorylation‐dependent signalling is coordinated by the opposing actions of protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs) and protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs). There is a growing list of adaptor proteins that interact with PTPs and facilitate the dephosphorylation of substrates. The extent to which any given adaptor confers selectivity for any given substrate in vivo remains unclear. Here we have taken advantage of Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism to explore the influence of the SH3/SH2 adaptor protein Dock on the abilities of the membrane (PTP61Fm)‐ and nuclear (PTP61Fn)‐targeted variants of PTP61F (the Drosophila othologue of the mammalian enzymes PTP1B and TCPTP respectively) to repress PTK signalling pathways in vivo. PTP61Fn effectively repressed the eye overgrowth associated with activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), PTK, or the expression of the platelet‐derived growth factor/vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (PVR) or insulin receptor (InR) PTKs. PTP61Fn repressed EGFR and PVR‐induced mitogen‐activated protein kinase signalling and attenuated PVR‐induced STAT92E signalling. By contrast, PTP61Fm effectively repressed EGFR‐ and PVR‐, but not InR‐induced tissue overgrowth. Importantly, coexpression of Dock with PTP61F allowed for the efficient repression of the InR‐induced eye overgrowth, but did not enhance the PTP61Fm‐mediated inhibition of EGFR and PVR‐induced signalling. Instead, Dock expression increased, and PTP61Fm coexpression further exacerbated the PVR‐induced eye overgrowth. These results demonstrate that Dock selectively enhances the PTP61Fm‐mediated attenuation of InR signalling and underscores the specificity of PTPs and the importance of adaptor proteins in regulating PTP function in vivo.
A common thermal niche among geographically diverse populations of the widely distributed tree species Eucalyptus tereticornis: No evidence for adaptation to climate‐of‐origin
Authors: Drake John E. , Vårhammar Angelica , Kumarathunge Dushan , Medlyn Belinda E. , Pfautsch Sebastian , Reich Peter B. , Tissue David T. , Ghannoum Oula , Tjoelker Mark G.
Published: May 2017

Impacts of climate warming depend on the degree to which plants are constrained by adaptation to their climate‐of‐origin or exhibit broad climatic suitability. We grew cool‐origin, central and warm‐origin provenances of Eucalyptus tereticornis in an array of common temperature environments from 18 to 35.5°C to determine if this widely distributed tree species consists of geographically contrasting provenances with differentiated and narrow thermal niches, or if provenances share a common thermal niche. The temperature responses of photosynthesis, respiration, and growth were equivalent across the three provenances, reflecting a common thermal niche despite a 2,200 km geographic distance and 13°C difference in mean annual temperature at seed origin. The temperature dependence of growth was primarily mediated by changes in leaf area per unit plant mass, photosynthesis, and whole‐plant respiration. Thermal acclimation of leaf, stem, and root respiration moderated the increase in respiration with temperature, but acclimation was constrained at high temperatures. We conclude that this species consists of provenances that are not differentiated in their thermal responses, thus rejecting our hypothesis of adaptation to climate‐of‐origin and suggesting a shared thermal niche. In addition, growth declines with warming above the temperature optima were driven by reductions in whole‐plant leaf area and increased respiratory carbon losses. The impacts of climate warming will nonetheless vary across the geographic range of this and other such species, depending primarily on each provenance's climate position on the temperature response curves for photosynthesis, respiration, and growth.
From standard takers to standard makers? The role of knowledge‐intensive intermediaries in setting global sustainability standards
Authors: STRAMBACH SIMONE , SURMEIER ANNIKA
Published: May 2017

Standards are increasingly being geared towards addressing social and ecological concerns in global production networks, but to facilitate sustainable development locally, global standards need to integrate the context‐specific needs of actors in developing countries. However, most standards are still developed in the Global North, while the inclusion of actors from developing countries remains limited. Nonetheless, there is recent evidence of some countries from the Global South proactively influencing transnational and global standard setting and, in these processes, knowledge is a decisive factor. Accordingly, in this article we argue that a dynamic and knowledge‐based perspective can provide more detailed insights into how actors from developing countries contribute to standard setting processes. In this respect, special types of organizations – namely knowledge‐intensive intermediaries (KIIs) – play an essential, yet unrecognized, role. Here, to illustrate the strategies that KIIs use to influence global standard setting, we investigate the South African organization ‘Fair Trade in Tourism’.
Saving out of Remittances: Evidence from Ethiopia and Kenya
Authors: Dendir Seife
Published: May 2017

This article examines the saving behaviour of remittance recipients in Ethiopia and Kenya. The few existing estimates of savings from remittances, often obtained indirectly using expenditure analysis, vary widely. The analysis presented here relies on ordinal saving categories reported in response to a direct survey question. The results reveal that the savings rate is higher in Kenya than Ethiopia, in the raw data and the multivariate model, although in both countries it rises with receipt size. Interestingly, gender is a robust predictor of differential savings, albeit with a contrasting pattern: women save more than men in Ethiopia, while the reverse is true in Kenya. In other results, a pre‐migration agreement about remittances has a strong positive effect on savings. Savings rates are also positively associated with financial inclusion in Ethiopia and formal channel flows in Kenya. Many of these results are confirmed by analysis of broader forms of saving/investment.