bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influences of microstructure and orientation on fracture toughness of intermetallic phase Al2Cu‐based alloy under directional solidification
Authors: Gao K. , Li S. , Song S. , Zhang R. , Guo X. , Fu H.
Published: January 2016

The influences of microstructures and orientations on fracture toughness of intermetallic phase Al2Cu‐based alloys during different directionally solidified rates were investigated. With solidified rates increasing, the patterns of Al2Cu phase dendrite turned from faceted V‐shaped morphology to elongated plate‐shaped morphology and discontinuous complex morphology in longitudinal section. Moreover, the deviation angle between the growth direction of Al2Cu dendrite and the heat flow direction was increasing. Because of fine grain toughening and crack propagation path deflected by orientation, the fracture toughness of Al2Cu‐based alloy was improved. The experimental results showed that improving the brittleness could be well achieved under higher directionally solidified rate.
The Changing Profile of Helicobacter pylori Antibiotic Resistance in Singapore: A 15‐Year Study
Authors: Ang Tiing Leong , Fock Kwong Ming , Ang Daphne , Kwek Andrew Boon Eu , Teo Eng Kiong , Dhamodaran Subbiah
Published: January 2016

Background

Antibiotic resistance is an important cause of H. pylori treatment failure. This study aimed to examine the change in H. pylori antibiotic resistance profile in Singapore over the course of 15 years.

Materials and methods

The study period was from 2000 to 2014. Gastric mucosal biopsies obtained from H. pylori‐positive patients were cultured. Antibiotic susceptibility to metronidazole, clarithromycin, levofloxacin, tetracycline, and amoxicillin was tested. The change in resistance rates over time was analyzed.

Results

A total of 708 H. pylori isolates were cultured. There was a significant increase in resistance rates for metronidazole (2000–2002: 24.8%; 2012–2014: 48.2%; p < .001), clarithromycin (2000–2002: 7.9%; 2012–2014: 17.1%; p = .022), and levofloxacin (2000–2002: 5%; 2012–2014: 14.7%; p = .007). The resistance rates for tetracycline (2000–2002: 5%; 2012–2014: 7.6%) and amoxicillin (2000–2002: 3%; 2012–2014: 4.4%) remained stable. Increase in dual (2000–2002: 6.9%; 2012–2014: 9.4%; p = .479) and triple antibiotic resistance rates (2000–2002: 0; 2012–2014: 7.6%; p < .001) were observed. Overall, the most common dual and triple resistance patterns were metronidazole/clarithromycin (4.4%) and metronidazole/clarithromycin/levofloxacin (1.8%), respectively.

Conclusions

Over 15 years, H. pylori resistance rates to metronidazole, clarithromycin and levofloxacin had increased. There was increased resistance to multiple antibiotics.
The Fabrication of ZrO2–ZrC Microspheres by Internal Gelation and Carbothermal Reduction Process
Authors: Gao Yong , Ma Jingtao , Zhao Xingyu , Hao Shaochang , Deng Changsheng , Liu Bing
Published: January 2016

ZrO2–ZrC (ZrCO) ceramic microspheres were fabricated by combination of internal gelation and carbothermal reduction process. The internal gelation broth containing carbon powders was prepared and stored at room temperature of 25°C to form a precursor of microspheres. By dropping droplets of the broth into hot silicone, the gel microspheres would solidify within a few seconds by decomposition of hexamethylenetetramine (HMTA). The dispersability of the carbon powders in the broth is the key factor to producing ZrCO microspheres with uniform density distribution, as zirconium carbides are generated by the direct reduction of ZrO2 with carbon. The ZrCO ceramic microspheres fabricated with various mass ratio of ZrO2 and ZrC have good sphericity and no cracks through optimizing washing and heat treatment process.
Properties of Geopolymer Composites Reinforced with Basalt Chopped Strand Mat or Woven Fabric
Authors: Ribero Daniel , Kriven Waltraud M.
Published: January 2016

Geopolymers or polysialates are inorganic polymeric, ceramic‐like materials composed of alumina, silica, and alkali metal oxides that can be made without any thermal treatment. Additions of reinforcing phases vastly improve the mechanical properties and high‐temperature stability of the geopolymer. The processing and mechanical properties of both chopped strand mat as well as 2‐D woven fabric‐reinforced potassium geopolymer composites have been evaluated. Hand lay‐up and hydraulic press processing methods were used to produce composite panels. The room‐temperature tensile and flexural strength of chopped strand mat composites was 21.0 ± 3.1 and 31.7 ± 4.4MPa, respectively, while those of basalt weave‐reinforced geopolymer composites reached 40.0 ± 5.9 and 45.2 ± 9.3MPa, respectively. Composite microstructures were examined using optical microscopy as well as scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Mass, volume, and porosity fractions were also determined. The effect of high‐temperature treatments at 25°C, 300°C, 600°C, and 800°C were analyzed. Finally, Weibull statistical analysis was performed, which showed an increase in reliability when a reinforcement phase was added to K‐geopolymer.
Environmental niche drives genetic and morphometric structure in a widespread bat
Authors: Morales Ariadna , Villalobos Fabricio , Velazco Paúl M. , Simmons Nancy B. , Piñero Daniel
Published: January 2016

Aim

To explore whether environmental factors are correlated with genetic and morphometric differences in the widely distributed bat speciesTadarida brasiliensis.

Location

North America and Central America.

Methods

We used an extensive sampling comprising 131 localities that represent heterogeneous environments across the Nearctic and Neotropical regions. Museum specimens were examined and 25 craniodental characters were recorded. Individuals were genotyped at one mitochondrial locus (mtDNA) and nine nuclear loci (nDNA). Clustering and phylogenetic analyses were used to identify differentiated groups. Environmental variables andPCA‐env approaches were used to determine the climatic niche and to measure the niche overlap, equivalence and similarity between groups. Mantel tests between genetic groupings and environmental variables, dispersal costs, Euclidean geographical distances and niche overlap were performed.

Results

We identified six genetic groups within Central and North AmericanT. brasiliensisbased onnDNA. The most strongly differentiated group, in bothnDNAand mtDNA, was located in central Mexico. Morphometric data showed that individuals from populations in Florida are slightly larger than the others. Niche overlap was detected among Neotropical groups but not among Nearctic groups. The currently recognized subspecies were not recovered as distinct groups with either genetic or morphometric data.

Main conclusions

Our approaches suggest that environmental niche variation may help shape the distribution of genetic variation across heterogeneous landscapes, particularly in widely distributed species. Environmental niche analyses suggest that genetic differences between migratory and non‐migratory groups ofT. brasiliensismay be promoted by climatic variation throughout the Nearctic and Neotropical regions. In addition, genetic and morphometric analyses do not support the current subspecies classification ofT. brasiliensisin North and Central America, which should be abandoned.
Comparison of Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation Between Asymptomatic and Symptomatic Persistent Atrial Fibrillation: A Propensity Score Matched Analysis
Authors: WU LINGMIN , LU YANLAI , ZHENG LIHUI , QIAO YU , CHEN GANG , DING LIGANG , HOU BINGBO , SUN WEI , LIEW REGINALD , ZHANG SHU , YAO YAN
Published: January 2016

RFCA for Asymptomatic Persistent AF

Background

Whether patients with asymptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF) could benefit from radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) remains unclear. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of RFCA between asymptomatic and symptomatic AF.

Methods

Sixty‐six patients with asymptomatic persistent AF who underwent the primary ablation for AF were enrolled; 132 patients with symptomatic persistent AF were matched using propensity score matching. All patients underwent circumferential pulmonary vein isolation in combination with linear ablation using AF termination as the primary procedural endpoint.

Results

Sinus rhythm (SR) was restored by ablation in 18 (27.3%) patients in the asymptomatic group and 93 (70.5%) in the symptomatic group (P < 0.001). Combined with intravenous infusion of ibutilide (1 mg), the numbers were 45 (68.2%) and 116 (87.8%), respectively (P = 0.001). At 1‐year follow‐up, SR was present in 23 (34.8%) patients in the asymptomatic group and 78 (59.1%) in the symptomatic group without any antiarrhythmic medication after a single procedure (P = 0.001). Of the 43 patients experiencing recurrence in the asymptomatic group, 16 (37.2%) had recurrent atrial tachycardia (AT)‐related symptoms. Multivariate analysis showed that asymptomatic AF was independently associated with AF failed to be terminated by ablation (OR: 7.1; 95% CI: 3.4 to 14.9; P < 0.001) and recurrence (OR: 2.2; 95% CI: 1.1 to 4.4; P = 0.018). Patients with asymptomatic AF showed less improvement in quality of life postablation than those with symptoms.

Conclusion

Current catheter ablation techniques showed worse outcomes in asymptomatic AF patients than in those with symptoms. Recurrent AT could cause significant symptoms in previously asymptomatic patients.
Angiotensin System Blockade Combined With Calcium Channel Blockers Is Superior to Other Combinations in Cardiovascular Protection With Similar Blood Pressure Reduction: A Meta‐Analysis in 20,451 Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Chi Chen , Tai Chenhui , Bai Bin , Yu Shikai , Karamanou Marianna , Wang Jiguang , Protogerou Athanase , Blacher Jacques , Safar Michel E. , Zhang Yi , Xu Yawei
Published: January 2016

The authors aimed to investigate the superiority of angiotensin system blockade (angiotensin‐converting enzyme [ACE] inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker [ARB]) plus a calcium channel blocker (CCB) (A+C) over other combination therapies in antihypertensive treatment. A meta‐analysis in 20,451 hypertensive patients from eight randomized controlled trials was conducted to compare the A+C treatment with other combination therapies in terms of blood pressure (BP) reduction, clinical outcomes, and adverse events. The results showed that BP reduction did not differ significantly among the A+C therapy and other combination therapies in systolic and diastolic BP (P=.87 and P=.56, respectively). However, A+C therapy, compared with other combination therapies, achieved a significantly lower incidence of cardiovascular composite endpoints, including cardiovascular mortality, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and nonfatal stroke (risk ratio [RR], 0.80; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.70–0.91; P<.001), but similar all‐cause mortality (RR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.77–1.04; P=.15) and stroke rates (RR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.77–1.04; P=.09). Moreover, A+C therapy yielded a 4.21 mL/min/1.73 m2 lower estimated glomerular filtration rate reduction than other combinations (P<.001). Finally, A+C therapy showed a similar incidence of adverse events as other combination therapies (P=.34) but presented a significantly lower incidence of serious adverse events (RR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.73–0.98; P=.03). In conclusion, A+C therapy is superior to other combinations of antihypertensive treatment as it shows a lower incidence of cardiovascular events and adverse events, while it has similar effects in lowering BP and preserving renal function.
Replication study of 34 common SNPs associated with prostate cancer in the Romanian population
Authors: Jinga Viorel , Csiki Irma Eva , Manolescu Andrei , Iordache Paul , Mates Ioan Nicolae , Radavoi Daniel , Rascu Stefan , Badescu Daniel , Badea Paula , Mates Dana
Published: January 2016

Prostate cancer is the third‐most common form of cancer in men in Romania. The Romanian unscreened population represents a good sample to study common genetic risk variants. However, a comprehensive analysis has not been conducted yet. Here, we report our replication efforts in a Romanian population of 979 cases and 1027 controls, for potential association of 34 literature‐reported single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with prostate cancer. We also examined whether any SNP was differentially associated with tumour grade or stage at diagnosis, with disease aggressiveness, and with the levels of PSA (prostate specific antigen). In the allelic analysis, we replicated the previously reported risk for 19 loci on 4q24, 6q25.3, 7p15.2, 8q24.21, 10q11.23, 10q26.13, 11p15.5, 11q13.2, 11q13.3. Statistically significant associations were replicated for other six SNPs only with a particular disease phenotype: low‐grade tumour and low PSA levels (rs1512268), high PSA levels (rs401681 and rs11649743), less aggressive cancers (rs1465618, rs721048, rs17021918). The strongest association of our tested SNP's with PSA in controls was for rs2735839, with 29% increase for each copy of the major allele G, consistent with previous results. Our results suggest that rs4962416, previously associated only with prostate cancer, is also associated with PSA levels, with 12% increase for each copy of the minor allele C. The study enabled the replication of the effect for the majority of previously reported genetic variants in a set of clinically relevant prostate cancers. This is the first replication study on these loci, known to associate with prostate cancer, in a Romanian population.
CD200 expression in human cultured bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells is induced by pro‐osteogenic and pro‐inflammatory cues
Authors: Pontikoglou Charalampos , Langonné Alain , Ba Mamadou Aliou , Varin Audrey , Rosset Philippe , Charbord Pierre , Sensébé Luc , Deschaseaux Frédéric
Published: January 2016

Similar to other adult tissue stem/progenitor cells, bone marrow mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (BM MSCs) exhibit heterogeneity at the phenotypic level and in terms of proliferation and differentiation potential. In this study such a heterogeneity was reflected by the CD200 protein. We thus characterized CD200pos cells sorted from whole BM MSC cultures and we investigated the molecular mechanisms regulating CD200 expression. After sorting, measurement of lineage markers showed that the osteoblastic genes RUNX2 and DLX5 were up‐regulated in CD200pos cells compared to CD200neg fraction. At the functional level, CD200pos cells were prone to mineralize the extra‐cellular matrix in vitro after sole addition of phosphates. In addition, osteogenic cues generated by bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) or BMP7 strongly induced CD200 expression. These data suggest that CD200 expression is related to commitment/differentiation towards the osteoblastic lineage. Immunohistochemistry of trephine bone marrow biopsies further corroborates the osteoblastic fate of CD200pos cells. However, when dexamethasone was used to direct osteogenic differentiation in vitro, CD200 was consistently down‐regulated. As dexamethasone has anti‐inflammatory properties, we assessed the effects of different immunological stimuli on CD200 expression. The pro‐inflammatory cytokines interleukin‐1β and tumour necrosis factor‐α increased CD200 membrane expression but down‐regulated osteoblastic gene expression suggesting an additional regulatory pathway of CD200 expression. Surprisingly, whatever the context, i.e. pro‐inflammatory or pro‐osteogenic, CD200 expression was down‐regulated when nuclear‐factor (NF)‐κB was inhibited by chemical or adenoviral agents. In conclusion, CD200 expression by cultured BM MSCs can be induced by both osteogenic and pro‐inflammatory cytokines through the same pathway: NF‐κB.
Predisposing and Precipitating Factors for Dissociation During Labor in a Cohort Study of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Childbearing Outcomes
Authors: Choi Kristen R. , Seng Julia S.
Published: January 2016

Introduction

Peritraumatic dissociation is an important predictor of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and impaired bonding following childbirth. The purpose of this study was to follow up on an earlier finding that peritraumatic dissociation in labor was associated with adverse postpartum outcomes by identifying predictors of dissociation in labor.

Methods

This analysis used data from a prospective cohort study of primiparous women from southeast Michigan. There were 564 women included in the analysis; the primary outcome measure was the Peritraumatic Dissociative Experiences Questionnaire (PDEQ) score measuring dissociation during labor.

Results

The prevalence of dissociation in labor for this sample was 7.4%. Important predictors of dissociation in labor included both predisposing (eg, childhood maltreatment trauma, preexisting psychopathology) and precipitating (eg, perception of care, negative appraisal of labor) factors. Overall, these predictors explained 14.7% of variance in PDEQ score. In 3 separate, simple linear regression models, the PDEQ score explained 20% of variance in postpartum PTSD, 13% of variance in postpartum depression, and 9% of variance in impaired bonding.

Discussion

Women with maltreatment history and PTSD are at risk to be retraumatized or overwhelmed by birth and to dissociate. Although it would be optimal to assess for dissociative coping prenatally, assessing with the PDEQ following birth could contribute to evaluation of risk for postpartum psychopathology.
Overexpression of Bcl‐2, SOCS 1, 3 and Cdh 1, 2 are associated with the early neoplasic changes in modified 4‐nitroquinoline 1‐oxide‐induced murine oral cancer model
Authors: Cabrera Ortega Adriana Alicia , Gonçalves Vinícius de Paiva , Guimarães Morgana Rodrigues , Rossa Junior Carlos , Spolidorio Luis Carlos
Published: January 2016

Background

The objective was to assess histopathological changes and the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), Bcl‐2, suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS) 1 and 3, Vimentin, TWIST1, and Cdh 1 and 2 in early stages of experimental oral carcinogenesis process using a shorter period of exposure to 4‐nitroquinoline oxide (4‐NQO) model.

Methods

In this study, 20 rats were divided into control group (n = 10), sacrificed on the first day of the experiment, and experimental group (n = 10) treated with 50 ppm of 4‐NQO solution dissolved in drinking water for 8 and 12 weeks. The histological sections were stained with H&E or subjected to immunohistochemistry for detecting PCNA, Bcl‐2, SOCS 1 and 3, and STAT 3. Some specimens were used for verification of Vimentin expression, Cdh 1, Cdh 2, and TWIST1 by RT–qPCR.

Results

At both 8 and 12 weeks, morphological changes occurred mainly in the posterior portion of the tongue and were limited to the epithelial tissue, including moderate to severe dysplasia at 8 weeks, and severe dysplasia with exacerbation of atypical cells at 12 weeks. Expression of SOCS 1 and 3 increased from 8 to 12 weeks (P < 0.05), whereas STAT 3 expression was reduced mainly at 12 weeks (P < 0.05) in comparison with the control group. The expression of all epithelial–mesenchymal transition markers (EMT) was increased after 12 weeks, reaching statistical significance (P < 0.05) for Cdh 1 and 2.

Conclusions

Together, the results suggested that overexpression of Bcl‐2, SOCS 1 and 3, and Cdh 1 and 2 is associated with the early neoplasic changes in modified 4‐nitroquinoline 1‐oxide‐induced murine oral cancer model.
Neighborhood Qualification of the Association Between Parenting and Problem Behavior Trajectories Among Mexican‐Origin Father–Adolescent Dyads
Authors: White Rebecca M. B. , Liu Yu , Gonzales Nancy A. , Knight George P. , Tein Jenn‐Yun
Published: January 2016

To address the combined importance of fathers and neighborhoods for adolescent adjustment, we examined whether associations between fathers' parenting and adolescents' problem behaviors were qualified by neighborhood adversity. We captured both mainstream (e.g., authoritative) and alternative (e.g., no‐nonsense, reduced involvement) parenting styles and examined parenting and neighborhood effects on changes over time in problem behaviors among a sample of Mexican‐origin father–adolescent dyads (N = 462). Compared to their counterparts in low‐adversity neighborhoods, adolescents in high‐adversity neighborhoods experienced greater initial benefits from authoritative fathering, greater long‐term benefits from no‐nonsense fathering, and fewer costs associated with reduced involvement fathering. The combined influences of alternative paternal parenting styles and neighborhood adversity may set ethnic and racial minority adolescents on different developmental pathways to competence.
Use of guidelines when planning home care of a girl with severe congenital myopathy
Authors: Gray Kelly , Isaacs David , Kilham Henry , Tobin Bernadette , Waters Karen
Published: January 2016

We use issues that arose in the management of a 4‐year old girl with a congenital myopathy to consider the tension between respecting the choices and decisions of the child's parents and applying clinical practice guidelines that emphasise minimising risk to the child. This case raises the issue of when it is reasonable to override parents’ choice of management options.
Curcumin prevents paracetamol-induced liver mitochondrial alterations
Authors: Granados-Castro Luis Fernando , Rodríguez-Rangel Daniela Sarai , Fernández-Rojas Berenice , León-Contreras Juan Carlos , Hernández-Pando Rogelio , Medina-Campos Omar Noel , Eugenio-Pérez Dianelena , Pinzón Enrique , Pedraza-Chaverri José
Published: January 2016

Objective

In the present study was evaluated if curcumin is able to attenuate paracetamol (PCM)-induced mitochondrial alterations in liver of mice.

Methods

Mice (n = 5–6/group) received curcumin (35, 50 or 100 mg/kg bw) 90 min before PCM injection (350 mg/kg bw). Plasma activity of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) was measured; histological analyses were done; and measurement of mitochondrial oxygen consumption, mitochondrial membrane potential, ATP synthesis, aconitase activity and activity of respiratory complexes was carried out.

Key findings

Curcumin prevented in a dose-dependent manner PCM-induced liver damage. Curcumin (100 mg/kg) attenuated PCM-induced liver histological damage (damaged hepatocytes from 28.3 ± 7.7 to 8.3 ± 0.7%) and increment in plasma ALT (from 2300 ± 150 to 690 ± 28 U/l) and AST (from 1603 ± 43 to 379 ± 22 U/l) activity. Moreover, curcumin attenuated the decrease in oxygen consumption using either succinate or malate/glutamate as substrates (evaluated by state 3, respiratory control ratio, uncoupled respiration and adenosine diphosphate/oxygen ratio), in membrane potential, in ATP synthesis, in aconitase activity and in the activity of respiratory complexes I, III and IV.

Conclusions

These results indicate that the protective effect of curcumin in PCM-induced hepatotoxicity is associated with attenuation of mitochondrial dysfunction.
Preparation of extended release solid dispersion formulations of tacrolimus using ethylcellulose and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose by solvent evaporation method
Authors: Tsunashima Daisuke , Yamashita Kazunari , Ogawara Ken-ichi , Sako Kazuhiro , Higaki Kazutaka
Published: January 2016

Objectives

Tacrolimus is a poorly water-soluble compound that is used to prevent allograft rejection. We aimed to prepare an extended release formulation of tacrolimus to achieve both an extended release profile and improved solubility of tacrolimus.

Methods

Extended release granules (ERG) of tacrolimus were prepared with lactose, ethylcellulose (EC) and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) via the solvent evaporation method.

Key findings

In an in vitro release study, ERG had an extended release profile, and the release rate of tacrolimus was regulated by the quantity of lactose, EC and HPMC in the formulation. HPMC-containing ERG successfully enhanced and maintained supersaturation of tacrolimus even after 24 h in a supersaturated release study. In contrast, the extent of supersaturation rapidly decreased after 4 h and the concentration nearly reached the same level as that of crystalline tacrolimus at 24 h for ERG without HPMC. In vivo absorption characteristics were compared between ERGs and immediate release (IR) formulation of tacrolimus. Successful and sustained absorption of tacrolimus without reducing bioavailability compared with IR formulation was observed for ERG.

Conclusions

These results suggest the feasibility of combining an EC-based formulation with solid dispersion utilizing HPMC for the extended release of oral formulations and sustained absorption of tacrolimus.
Could cytokine levels in the peri‐implant crevicular fluid be used to distinguish between healthy implants and implants with peri‐implantitis? A systematic review
Authors: Duarte P. M. , Serrão C. R. , Miranda T. S. , Zanatta L. C. S. , Bastos M. F. , Faveri M. , Figueiredo L. C. , Feres M.
Published: January 2016

Background and Objective

Despite investigative efforts to identify the levels of different types of cytokines in the peri‐implant crevicular fluid (PICF), the efficacy of these biomarkers in assisting the diagnosis of peri‐implantitis is still undetermined. This systematic review aimed to answer the following question: “Could cytokine levels in the PICF be used to distinguish between healthy implants and implants with peri‐implantitis?”

Material and Methods

This review was conducted and reported in accordance with the PRISMA statement. The MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were searched from 1990 up to and including March 2015, using MeSH terms and other keywords. Additional publications were searched using a hand search of reference lists of relevant studies. Titles and abstracts were screened and papers that fulfilled eligibility criteria were assessed.

Results

Out of 1212 titles, 18 studies reporting the levels of nine different cytokines were included. Proinflammatory cytokines [interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐12, IL‐17 and tumor necrosis factor‐α) were the cytokines studied most commonly, followed by anti‐inflammatory cytokines (IL‐4 and IL‐10), osteoclastogenesis‐related cytokines (RANKL) and chemokines (IL‐8). Nine studies reported statistically significantly higher levels of proinflammatory cytokines in the PICF of implants with peri‐implantitis than in the PICF of healthy implants. Most studies did not find any significant differences in the PICF levels of anti‐inflammatory cytokines and RANKL between healthy implants and implants with peri‐implantitis. IL‐8 was the only chemokine studied and its levels did not differ significantly between healthy and diseased implants. The studies differed greatly in the manner in which they reported the results (e.g. concentrations or total amounts) and in the exclusion of confounders, such as smoking.

Conclusion

The results of this systematic review indicate moderate evidence in the literature to support that implants with peri‐implantitis present higher levels of proinflammatory cytokines in the PICF than do healthy implants. Evidence regarding the PICF levels of anti‐inflammatory cytokines, osteoclastogenesis‐related cytokines and chemokines as possible predictors of peri‐implantitis is too limited.
NS3 protease polymorphisms and genetic barrier to drug resistance of distinct hepatitis C virus genotypes from worldwide treatment‐naïve subjects
Authors: Vidal L. L. , Soares M. A. , Santos A. F.
Published: January 2016

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS3 protease inhibitors have been primarily designed against genotype 1, the one with the lowest response to dual therapy. However, less evidence of their efficacy on non‐1 genotypes is available, and any such information is mostly concentrated on genotypes 2‐4. This study evaluated HCV protease resistance profiles in the major six HCV genotypes and identified genetic barrier (GB) profiles to each available protease inhibitor across HCV strains from different locations worldwide. We obtained 15 099 HCV sequences from treatment‐naïve subjects retrieved at the Los Alamos HCV Sequence Database. The wild‐type codons of different HCV genotypes were used to analyse the smallest number of nucleotide substitution steps required for changing that codon to the closest one associated with drug resistance. The 36L and 175L RAVs were found as genetic signatures of genotypes 2‐5, while the 80K RAV was found in all genotype 5 sequences. Genotypes 4 and 6 showed a higher GB to RAV mutations conferring resistance to telaprevir, while genotypes 2‐5 presented baseline resistance to that drug, carrying the 36L mutation. Genotype 4 had a higher GB to simeprevir resistance, requiring three substitutions to acquire the 155K mutation. Subtype 1b showed a higher GB than subtype 1a to resistance for most PIs, with RAVs at codons 36 and 155. Geographic disparities were also found in frequencies of certain RAVs in genotypes 2 and 3. Under a scenario of unprecedented evolution of anti‐HCV direct‐acting agents, the genetic composition of the circulating HCV sequences should be evaluated worldwide to choose the most appropriate/feasible therapeutic schemes with the highest genetic barriers to resistance.
Serum Beta Hydroxybutyrate Concentrations in Cats with Chronic Kidney Disease, Hyperthyroidism, or Hepatic Lipidosis
Authors: Gorman L. , Sharkey L.C. , Armstrong P.J. , Little K. , Rendahl A.
Published: January 2016

Background

Ketones, including beta hydroxybutyrate (BHB), are produced in conditions of negative energy balance and decreased glucose utilization. Serum BHB concentrations in cats are poorly characterized in diseases other than diabetes mellitus.

Hypothesis

Serum BHB concentrations will be increased in cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD), hyperthyroidism (HT), or hepatic lipidosis (HL).

Animals

Twenty‐eight client‐owned cats with CKD, 34 cats with HT, and 15 cats with HL; 43 healthy cats.

Methods

Prospective observational study. Serum BHB concentrations were measured at admission in cats with CKD, HT, and HL, for comparison with a reference interval established using healthy cats. Results of dipstick urine ketone measurement, when available, were compared to BHB measurement.

Results

Beta hydroxybutyrate was above the reference interval (<0.11 mmol/L) in 6/28 cats (21%) with CKD, 7/34 cats (20%) with HT, and 11/15 cats (73%) with HL, significantly exceeding the expected 2.5% above the reference interval for healthy cats (P < .001 for all groups). Elevations were mild in CKD and HT groups (median BHB 0.1 mmol/L for both groups, 80th percentile 0.12 and 0.11 mmol/L, respectively), but more marked in HL cats (median BHB 0.2 mmol/L, 80th percentile 0.84 mmol/L). None of 11 cats with increased serum BHB concentration having urine dipstick analysis performed within 24 h of sampling for BHB were ketonuric.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Increases in serum BHB concentrations occur in cats with CKD, HT, and HL, and might provide an useful index of catabolism.
Overcoming Instructor‐Originated Math Anxiety in Philosophy Students: A Consideration of Proven Techniques for Students Taking Formal Logic
Authors: Macpherson Brian
Published: January 2016

Every university student has his or her nemesis. Biology and social science students anticipate with great apprehension their required statistics course, while many philosophy students live in fear of formal logic. Math anxiety is the common thread uniting all of them. This article argues that since formal logic is an algebra requiring similar kinds of symbol‐manipulation skills needed to succeed in a basic mathematics course, then if logic students have math anxiety, this can impede their progress. Further, it argues that math anxiety is primarily caused by and exacerbated by poor instruction. Formal logic instructors who employ effective instructional techniques for reducing it can help their students overcome math anxiety to foster learning. Methods of instruction leading to anxiety reduction and evidence supporting their efficacy are discussed, including co‐operative learning, the mastery goal approach, and self‐paced learning. None of these methods holds back more advanced students.
Endoplasmic reticulum stress responses function in the HRT‐mediated hypersensitive response in Nicotiana benthamiana
Authors: Moon Ju Yeon , Lee Jeong Hee , Oh Chang‐Sik , Kang Hong‐Gu , Park Jeong Mee
Published: January 2016

HRT is a plant coiled‐coil, nucleotide‐binding and leucine‐rich repeat (CC‐NB‐LRR) disease resistance protein that triggers the hypersensitive response (HR) on recognition of Turnip crinkle virus (TCV) coat protein (CP). The molecular mechanism and significance of HR‐mediated cell death for TCV resistance have not been fully elucidated. To identify the genes involved in HRT/TCV CP‐mediated HR in Nicotiana benthamiana, we performed virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS) of 459 expressed sequence tags (ESTs) of pathogen‐responsive Capsicum annuum genes. VIGS of CaBLP5, which encodes an endoplasmic reticulum (ER)‐associated immunoglobulin‐binding protein (BiP), silenced NbBiP4 and NbBiP5 and significantly reduced HRT‐mediated HR. The induction of ER stress‐responsive genes and the accumulation of ER‐targeted BiPs in response to HRT‐mediated HR suggest that ER is involved in HR in N. benthamiana. BiP4/5 silencing significantly down‐regulated HRT at the mRNA and protein levels, and affected SGT1 and HSP90 expression. Co‐expression of TCV CP in BiP4/5‐silenced plants completely abolished HRT induction. Transient expression of TCV CP alone induced selected ER stress‐responsive gene transcripts only in Tobacco rattle virus (TRV)‐infected plants, and most of these genes were induced by HRT/TCV CP, except for bZIP60, which was induced specifically in response to HRT/TCV CP. TCV CP‐mediated induction of ER stress‐responsive genes still occurred in BiP4/5‐silenced plants, but HRT/TCV CP‐mediated induction of these genes was defective. Tunicamycin, a chemical that inhibits protein N‐glycosylation, inhibited HRT‐mediated HR, suggesting that ER has a role in HR regulation. These results indicate that BiP and ER, which modulate pattern recognition receptors in innate immunity, also regulate R protein‐mediated resistance.
Ingredients of a Successful Track Two Negotiation
Authors: Benziman Yuval
Published: January 2016

During three days in 2003, an Israeli–Palestinian group met in London to negotiate the draft of the “Geneva Initiative,” which offered a potential final status agreement between Israel and Palestine. In this article, I analyze the video recording of these unofficial negotiations and examine how the framing and conduct of the talks enabled significant progress toward reaching an agreement.

I describe six main framing techniques used by the mediators: calling the meetings an “exercise,” which reduced restraints on the participants and enhanced their flexibility, avoiding deep historical issues to focus solely on future‐oriented pragmatic solutions, allowing the participants to discuss any topic they chose while deliberately avoiding crucial narrative issues, convincing the participants that this track two negotiation was crucial for the future of official Israeli–Palestinian relations, accentuating the parties' understandings and agreements with each other, and building a sense of superordinate group identity among the participants, to encourage cooperation.

These components were the key “ingredients” for the first — and still the only — (unofficial) detailed proposal for an Israeli–Palestinian peace agreement. They provide lessons that could improve the success of other track two negotiations.
Six‐minute walk test predicts all‐cause mortality and technique failure in ambulatory peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Shi Yuanyuan , Zheng Dongxia , Zhang Lin , Yu Zanzhe , Yan Hao , Ni Zhaohui , Qian Jiaqi , Fang Wei
Published: January 2016

Aim

This study investigated the associated factors of 6‐min walk test (6MWT) and its predictive value of outcome in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD).

Methods

This is a single centre prospective observational cohort study. Stable ambulatory PD patients in our centre between 1 May 2010 and 30 April 2011 were enrolled in this study. All included subjects performed 6MWT, and 6‐min walk distances (6MWDs) were recorded. Patients were divided into two groups according to 6MWD and prospectively followed up until death, cessation of PD or to the end of the study (30 September 2012).

Results

A total of 145 patients were enrolled, including 63 (43%) males. Multiple stepwise regression showed that age (β = –0.295, P = 0.001), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (β = 0.292, P = 0.001), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (β = 0.198, P = 0.019) were independently associated with lower 6MWD. By the end of the study, six (8%) patients died in long 6MWD group while 15 (20%) died in the short 6MWD group, a significantly lower patient survival was observed in short 6MWD group (Log‐rank = 4.983, P = 0.026). Patients with short 6MWD also showed inferior technique survival (Log‐rank = 4.838, P = 0.028). There was no significant difference in peritonitis‐free survival between the two groups (Log‐rank = 0.801, P = 0.371). However, more patients in short 6MWD group had been transferred to hemodialysis due to peritonitis (25% vs 4.2%, P = 0.013).

Conclusion

Age, diastolic blood pressure, LVEF are independent associated factors of 6MWD in patients undergoing PD. Having the advantages of easy applicability and safety, 6MWT may be proposed as an important predictor of outcome in ambulatory PD patients.
Extranodal NK/T‐cell lymphoma, nasal type, manifesting as rapidly progressive dementia without any mass or enhancing brain lesion
Authors: Shimatani Yoshimitsu , Nakano Yuta , Tsuyama Naoko , Murayama Shigeo , Oki Ryosuke , Miyamoto Ryosuke , Murakami Nagahisa , Fujita Koji , Watanabe Syunsuke , Uehara Hisanori , Abe Takashi , Nodera Hiroyuki , Kawarai Toshitaka , Izumi Yuishin , Kaji Ryuji
Published: January 2016

Among the many potential etiologies for rapidly progressive dementia (RPD), primary central nervous system extranodal NK/T‐cell lymphoma, nasal‐type (ENKL) is a rare entity. We present the first reported case of autopsy‐proven RPD due to ENKL without any mass or enhancing lesion of the brain. A 54‐year‐old immunocompetent man presented with RPD, myoclonus and ataxia. The mini‐mental state examination (MMSE) score was 22/30. His brain MRI revealed progressive brain atrophy without gadolinium enhancement or mass lesion. Five months after the initial evaluation, cognitive impairment further worsened with an MMSE score of 3/30. At the advanced stage, lumbar MRI showed swollen cauda equina with gadolinium enhancement. The number of Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) DNA in cerebrospinal fluid had gradually increased. Twelve months after onset, the patient died of respiratory failure. Pathological findings revealed that lymphoma cells had diffusely invaded the meninges, parenchyma of the brain, spinal cord and cauda equina. Cells were positive for CD3, CD56 and EBV‐encoded small RNAs and negative for CD20. No evidence of malignancy was identified in the visceral organs. This report indicates that ENKL should be recognized as one of the rare causes of RPD. Early testing for EBV‐DNA in cerebrospinal fluid and imaging of cauda equina would be useful diagnostic tools.
Improving food intake in persons living with dementia
Authors: Keller Heather H.
Published: January 2016

Persons living with dementia have many health concerns, including poor nutritional states. This narrative review provides an overview of the literature on nutritional status in persons diagnosed with a dementing illness or condition. Poor food intake is a primary mechanism for malnutrition, and there are many reasons why poor food intake occurs, especially in the middle and later stages of the dementing illness. Research suggests a variety of interventions to improve food intake, and thus nutritional status and quality of life, in persons with dementia. For family care partners, education programs have been the focus, while a range of intervention activities have been the focus in residential care, from tableware changes to retraining of self‐feeding. It is likely that complex interventions are required to more fully address the issue of poor food intake, and future research needs to focus on diverse components. Specifically, modifying the psychosocial aspects of mealtimes is proposed as a means of improving food intake and quality of life and, to date, is a neglected area of intervention development and research.
A case of 37 year long Behçet disease resembling Takayasu arteritis: An autopsy report
Authors: Sato Naoko , Irie Koji , Kouzuma Ryoji , Inoue Katsumi , Nakayama Toshiyuki
Published: January 2016

A 19‐year‐old woman with a history of recurrent aphthous stomatitis and genital ulceration was diagnosed with Behçet disease. She was treated with steroids and immunosuppressive agents for more than 30 years, but multiple complications manifested including ileocecal ulcer, aortic valve regurgitation, renal failure, ischemic enterocolitis, and arteriosclerotic obliterans until her death at the age of 56 from pneumonia. An autopsy examination demonstrated an entirely calcified aorta and major aortic branches. The ascending aorta was dilatated 55 mm in diameter and branches were all stenosed. Microscopically, the aortic arch and its branches showed collagenous fibrosis of the outer media and adventitia, whereas coronary and abdominal aortic branches showed conventional atherosclerosis. Although the ante‐mortem diagnosis was angio‐Behçet disease, its pathophysiology along with her clinical history, morphology of the lead pipe‐like aorta, predominant destruction of the outer arteries, and a human leukocyte antigen (HLA) haplotype of B39 were all suggestive of Takayasu arteritis. Thus, this case implies that HLA‐B39 may be associated with the pathogenesis of arteritis like Takayasu arteritis, even if the primary disease is Behçet disease.
Development of a database system and image viewer to assist in the correlation of histopathologic features and digital image analysis with clinical and molecular genetic information
Authors: Yagi Yukako , Riedlinger Gregory , Xu Xun , Nakamura Akira , Levy Bruce , Iafrate A. John , Mino‐Kenudson Mari , Klepeis Veronica E.
Published: January 2016

Pathologists are required to integrate data from multiple sources when making a diagnosis. Furthermore, whole slide imaging (WSI) and next generation sequencing will escalate data size and complexity. Development of well‐designed databases that can allow efficient navigation between multiple data types is necessary for both clinical and research purposes. We developed and evaluated an interactive, web‐based database that integrates clinical, histologic, immunohistochemical and genetic information to aid in pathologic diagnosis and interpretation with nine lung adenocarcinoma cases. To minimize sectioning artifacts, representative blocks were serially sectioned using automated tissue sectioning (Kurabo Industries, Osaka Japan) and selected slides were stained by multiple techniques, (hematoxylin and eosin [H&E], immunohistochemistry [IHC] or fluorescence in situ hybridization [FISH]). Slides were digitized by WSI scanners. An interactive relational database was designed based on a list of proposed fields covering a variety of clinical, pathologic and molecular parameters. By focusing on the three main tasks of 1.) efficient management of textual information, 2.) effective viewing of all varieties of stained whole slide images (WSI), and 3.) assistance in evaluating WSI with computer‐aided diagnosis, this database prototype shows great promise for multi‐modality research and diagnosis.
Regulatory lags, liberalization, and vulnerability to banking crises
Authors: Garriga Ana Carolina
Published: January 2016

This article explores the effect of delays in updating prudential regulation on the likelihood of a country experiencing banking crises, and it disentangles the impact of different aspects of regulation on crisis onset. I argue that delays in revision to banks' prudential regulation allow banks to adopt risky behavior, which increases a country's vulnerability to systemic banking crises. This effect, however, is conditional on the level of liberalization of the financial market. At lower levels of liberalization, banks have stronger incentives to escape the constraints of regulation and to take advantage of regulatory lags. At high levels of liberalization, the effect of regulatory lags is curbed, possibly by market discipline. Statistical analyses on a sample of developed and developing countries from 1974–2005 support this argument and help rule out the competing learning hypothesis. These results suggest that the effects of institutions can vary with the passage of time.
Primum non nocere
Authors: Jaksic Mirjana , Vyas Julian
Published: January 2016

See article, page 329
Instrument translation and initial psychometric evaluation of the Danish Body Image Quality of Life Inventory
Authors: Rasmussen Trine Bernholdt , Berg Selina Kikkenborg , Dixon Jane , Moons Philip , Konradsen Hanne
Published: January 2016

Rationale and objectives

Negative body perception has been reported in a number of patient populations. No instrument in Danish for measuring body image‐related concerns has been available. Without such an instrument, understanding of the phenomenon in Danish‐speaking populations is limited. The purpose of the study was thus to translate and validate a Danish version of the Body Image Quality of Life Inventory (BIQLI), in order to obtain a valid instrument applicable for healthcare research.

Methods

The study consisted of two phases: (i) instrument adaptation, including forward and back translation, expert committee comparisons and cognitive interviewing, and (ii) empirical testing of the Danish version (BIQLI‐DA) with subsequent psychometric evaluation. Hypothesised correlations to other measures, including body mass index (BMI), Medical Outcome Short Form‐8 (SF‐8), Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 (PHQ‐9), General Anxiety Disorder‐7 and Symptom Check List‐90‐Revised (SCL‐90‐R®) were tested. In addition, exploratory factor structure analysis (EFA) and internal consistency on item and scale level were performed.

Results and study limitations

The adapted instrument was found to be semantically sound, yet concerns about face validity did arise through cognitive interviews. Danish college students (n = 189, 65 men, Mage = 21.1 years) participated in the piloting of the BIQLI‐DA. Convergent construct validity was demonstrated through associations to related constructs. Exploratory factor analysis revealed a potential subscale structure. Finally, results showed a high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.92). Support for the validity of the BIQLI‐DA might have been strengthened by repeating cognitive interviews after layout alterations, by piloting the instrument on a larger sample.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated tentative support for the validity of the Danish Body Image Quality of Life (BIQLI‐DA) and found the measure to be reliable in terms of internal consistency. Further exploration of response processes and construct validity is needed.
David vs. Goliath? Smaller European Exporting firms facing Asian competition on global markets
Authors: Abraham Filip , Van Hove Jan , Studnicka Zuzanna
Published: January 2016

This paper analyses the presence of Asian competition in the export markets of Belgian manufacturing firms between 1998 and 2010. We focus on the value of exports at the firm level where we consider both the intensive and the extensive margin. Within Asia a distinction is made between China, India, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan. We find that Asian competition matters significantly for Belgian export companies.
Slower Growth and Vulnerability to Recession: Updating China's Global Impact
Authors: Tyers Rod
Published: January 2016

China's comparatively rapid consumption growth since 2010 and its increasing economic similarity with advanced economies, imply that consumer and business confidence are now central to performance, changing its global impacts and rendering recession more likely. The international effects of its new growth pattern are quantified using a global macro model with national portfolio rebalancing. The transition to consumption‐led growth is shown to foster employment abroad while a major Chinese recession is shown to be damaging to the advanced economies and particularly to the US, the more so if China's policy response is expansionary and includes floating the RMB.