bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations between psychological variables and pain in experimental pain models. A systematic review
Authors: Hansen M. S. , Horjales‐Araujo E. , Dahl J. B.
Published: June 2015

Background

The association between pain and psychological characteristics has been widely debated. Thus, it remains unclear whether an individual's psychological profile influences a particular pain experience, or if previous pain experience contributes to a certain psychological profile. Translational studies performed in healthy volunteers may provide knowledge concerning psychological factors in healthy individuals as well as basic pain physiology. The aim of this review was to investigate whether psychological vulnerability or specific psychological variables in healthy volunteers are predictive of the level of pain following experimental pain models.

Methods

A systematic search on the databases, PubMed, Embase, Cochcrane library, and Clinicaltrials.gov was performed during September 2014. All trials investigating the association between psychological variables and experimental pain in healthy volunteers were considered for inclusion.

Results

Twenty‐nine trials met the inclusion criteria, with a total of 2637 healthy volunteers. The included trials investigated a total of 45 different psychological tests and 27 different types of pain models. The retrieved trials did not present a sufficiently homogenous group to perform meta‐analysis. The collected results were diverse. A total of 16 trials suggested that psychological factors may predict the level of pain, seven studies found divergent results, and six studies found no significant association between psychological variables and experimental pain.

Conclusion

Psychological factors may have predictive value when investigating experimental pain. However, due to substantial heterogeneity and methodological shortcomings of the published literature, firm conclusions are not possible.
Ribosylation triggering Alzheimer's disease‐like Tau hyperphosphorylation via activation of CaMKII
Authors: Wei Yan , Han Chanshuai , Wang Yujing , Wu Beibei , Su Tao , Liu Ying , He Rongqiao
Published: June 2015

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is regarded as one of the serious risk factors for age‐related cognitive impairment; however, a causal link between these two diseases has so far not been established. It was recently discovered that, apart from high D‐glucose levels, T2DM patients also display abnormally high concentrations of uric D‐ribose. Here, we show for the first time that the administration of D‐ribose, the most active glycator among monosaccharides, produces high levels of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and, importantly, triggers hyperphosphorylation of Tau in the brain of C57BL/6 mouse and neuroblastoma N2a cells. However, the administration of D‐glucose showed no significant changes in Tau phosphorylation under the same experimental conditions. Crucially, suppression of AGE formation using an AGEs inhibitor (aminoguanidine) effectively prevents hyperphosphorylation of Tau protein. Further study shows AGEs resulted from ribosylation activate calcium‐/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase type II (CaMKII), a key kinase responsible for Tau hyperphosphorylation. These data suggest that there is indeed a mechanistic link between ribosylation and Tau hyperphosphorylation. Targeting ribosylation by inhibiting AGE formation may be a promising therapeutic strategy to prevent Alzheimer's disease‐like Tau hyperphosphorylation and diabetic encephalopathies.
Momentum in weekly returns: the role of intermediate‐horizon past performance
Authors: Chai Daniel , Limkriangkrai Manapon , Ji Philip Inyeob
Published: June 2015

Gutierrez and Kelly (2008) recently documented momentum in weekly returns. Using the Australian market as a setting, we find that stocks with high 1‐week returns exhibit a continuation in returns up to 1 year after a brief initial return reversal. However, after controlling for the intermediate‐horizon past performance, the continuation in returns after 1‐week returns disappears. These findings suggest that different past investment horizons contain separate information about price momentum and that intermediate‐term trends dominate short‐term trends in driving future returns. Overall, we show that understanding momentum over different horizons facilitates the design of more profitable trading strategies.
Comparison of psychotic bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia: an international, multisite study
Authors: Tondo L. , Vázquez G. H. , Baethge C. , Baronessa C. , Bolzani L. , Koukopoulos A. , Mazzarini L. , Murru A. , Pacchiarotti I. , Pinna M. , Salvatore P. , Sani G. , Selle V. , Spalletta G. , Girardi P. , Tohen M. , Vieta E. , Baldessarini R. J.
Published: June 2015

Objective

Nosological distinctions among schizoaffective disorder (SA), bipolar I disorder with psychotic features (BDp), and schizophrenia (SZ) remain unresolved.

Method

We compared 2269 subjects with psychotic features in DSM‐IV‐TR diagnoses (1435 BDp, 463 SZ, 371 SA) from 8 collaborating international sites, by 12 sociodemographic and clinical measures, all between diagnostic pairs.

Results

In bivariate comparisons, SA was consistently intermediate between BDp and SZ for 11/12 features (except onset stressors), and SZ vs. BDp differed in all 12 factors. SA differed from both BDp and SZ in 9/12 factors: SA and BDp were similar in education and suicidal ideation or acts; SA and SZ were similar in education, onset stressors, and substance abuse. Meta‐analytic comparisons of diagnostic pairs for 10 categorical factors indicated similar differences of SA from both SZ and BDp. Multivariate modeling indicated significantly independent differences between BDp and SZ (8 factors), SA vs. SZ (5), and BDp vs. SA (3). Measurement variance was similar for all diagnoses.

Conclusion

SA was consistently intermediate between BDp and SZ. The three diagnostic groups ranked: BDp > SA > SZ related to lesser morbidity or disability. The findings are not consistent with a dyadic Kraepelinian categorization, although the considerable overlap among the three DSM‐IV diagnostic groups indicates uncertain boundaries if they represent distinct disorders.
Position paper of the EAACI: food allergy due to immunological cross‐reactions with common inhalant allergens
Authors: Werfel T. , Asero R. , Ballmer‐Weber B. K. , Beyer K. , Enrique E. , Knulst A. C. , Mari A. , Muraro A. , Ollert M. , Poulsen L. K. , Vieths S. , Worm M. , Hoffmann‐Sommergruber K.
Published: June 2015

In older children, adolescents, and adults, a substantial part of all IgE‐mediated food allergies is caused by cross‐reacting allergenic structures shared by inhalants and foods. IgE stimulated by a cross‐reactive inhalant allergen can result in diverse patterns of allergic reactions to various foods. Local, mild, or severe systemic reactions may occur already after the first consumption of a food containing a cross‐reactive allergen. In clinical practice, clinically relevant sensitizations are elucidated by skin prick testing or by the determination of specific IgE in vitro. Component‐resolved diagnosis may help to reach a diagnosis and may predict the risk of a systemic reaction. Allergy needs to be confirmed in cases of unclear history by oral challenge tests. The therapeutic potential of allergen immunotherapy with inhalant allergens in pollen‐related food allergy is not clear, and more placebo‐controlled studies are needed. As we are facing an increasing incidence of pollen allergies, a shift in sensitization patterns and changes in nutritional habits, and the occurrence of new, so far unknown allergies due to cross‐reactions are expected.
Urine exoglycosidases are potential markers of renal tubular injury in children with ureteropelvic junction obstruction
Authors: Taranta‐Janusz Katarzyna , Zalewska‐Szajda Beata , Chojnowska Sylwia , Wasilewska Anna
Published: June 2015

Aim

Hydronephrosis caused by ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) is an important problem in children and young adults. The aim of this pilot study was to determine the urine profiles of a number of lysosomal exoglycosidases to see whether they indicated tubular renal damage in children with UPJO.

Methods

We measured lysosomal exoglycosidases urine activities in 32 patients with UPJO, dividing them into three groups. The surgical group comprised 16 children with severe hydronephrosis who required surgery, the nonsurgical group comprised 16 patients with mild hydronephrosis, and the reference group comprised 42 healthy children. The following indicators were measured: N‑acetyl‑β‑hexosaminidase and its A and B isoenzymes, α‐fucosidase, β‐galactosidase, α‐mannosidase and β‐glucuronidase.

Results

The urine activities of all exoglycosidases were significantly higher in children with UPJO than children in the reference group (p < 0.01). A strong positive correlation was also found between most of the urine exoglycosidases and the urine albumin/creatinine ratio (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrated that children with UPJO showed increased renal activities of assessed exoglycosidases, which correlated positively with the urine albumin/creatinine ratio. A larger multicentre study is required to confirm the clinical applications of these observations.
Mental health problems are rising more in Swedish adolescents than in other Nordic countries and the Netherlands
Authors: Bremberg Sven
Published: June 2015

Mental health problems increased in adolescents and young adults in Europe between 1950 and 1990, and the cause is largely unknown. Denmark, Finland, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden form a relatively homogenous group of countries with favourable conditions for children. Our review examined the time trends for mental health problems in these countries between 1990 and 2010.

Conclusion

In general, there were only small changes in mental health problems in the countries studied. However, we did note a marked rising trend in mental health problems among adolescents in Sweden, which also has more issues with school achievement and unemployment rates.
Ca2+‐activated K+ current is essential for maintaining excitability and gene transcription in early embryonic cardiomyocytes
Authors: Karppinen S. , Rapila R. , Naumenko N. , Tuomainen T. , Koivumäki J. T. , Hänninen S. L. , Korhonen T. , Tavi P.
Published: June 2015

Aim

Activity of early embryonic cardiomyocytes relies on spontaneous Ca2+ oscillations that are induced by interplay between sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) – Ca2+ release and ion currents of the plasma membrane. In a variety of cell types, Ca2+‐activated K+ current (IK(Ca)) serves as a link between Ca2+ signals and membrane voltage. This study aimed to determine the role of IK(Ca) in developing cardiomyocytes.

Methods

Ion currents and membrane voltage of embryonic (E9‐11) mouse cardiomyocytes were measured by patch clamp; [Ca2+]i signals by confocal microscopy. Transcription of specific genes was measured with RT‐qPCR and Ca2+‐dependent transcriptional activity using NFAT‐luciferase assay. Myocyte structure was assessed with antibody labelling and confocal microscopy.

Results

E9‐11 cardiomyocytes express small conductance (SK) channel subunits SK2 and SK3 and have a functional apamin‐sensitive K+ current, which is also sensitive to changes in cytosolic [Ca2+]i. In spontaneously active cardiomyocytes, inhibition of IK(Ca) changed action and resting potentials, reduced SR Ca2+ load and suppressed the amplitude and the frequency of spontaneously evoked Ca2+ oscillations. Apamin caused dose‐dependent suppression of NFAT‐luciferase reporter activity, induced downregulation of a pattern of genes vital for cardiomyocyte development and triggered changes in the myocyte morphology.

Conclusion

The results show that apamin‐sensitive IK(Ca) is required for maintaining excitability and activity of the developing cardiomyocytes as well as having a fundamental role in promoting Ca2+‐ dependent gene expression.
Faecal microbiota transplantation plus selected use of vancomycin for severe‐complicated Clostridium difficile infection: description of a protocol with high success rate
Authors: Fischer M. , Sipe B. W. , Rogers N. A. , Cook G. K. , Robb B. W. , Vuppalanchi R. , Rex D. K.
Published: June 2015

Background

Severe and severe/complicated Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) can result in ICU admission, sepsis, toxic megacolon and death. In this setting, colectomy is the standard of care but it is associated with a 50% mortality.

Aim

To evaluate safety and efficacy of a sequential faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) and antibiotic protocol in severe and severe/complicated CDI patients who are at high risk for colectomy.

Methods

All patients with severe and severe/complicated CDI refractory to oral vancomycin ± rectal vancomycin and intravenous metronidazole therapy were offered FMT. Treatment consisted of sequential FMTs via colonoscopy with the need for repeat FMT and continued vancomycin guided by clinical response and pseudomembranes at colonoscopy.

Results

A total of 29 patients underwent FMT between July 2013 and August 2014. The overall treatment response of endoscopic sequential FMT was 93% (27/29), with 100% (10/10) for severe CDI and 89% (17/19) for severe/complicated CDI. A single FMT was performed in 62%, two FMTs were performed in 31% and three FMTs in 7% of patients. The use of non‐CDI antibiotics predicted repeat FMT (odds ratio = 17.5). The 30‐day all‐cause mortality after FMT was 7%, and the cumulative 3‐month survival was 76%. Of the two patients who died within 30 days, one underwent colectomy and succumbed to sepsis; the other died from septic shock related to CDI.

Conclusion

The success of a treatment protocol for severe and severe/complicated involving faecal microbiota transplantation and continued vancomycin in selected patients was high, and it warrants further evaluation.
Herbicide application as a habitat restoration tool: impact on native island plant communities
Authors: Kaiser‐Bunbury Christopher N. , Mougal James , Valentin Terence , Gabriel Ronny , Blüthgen Nico
Published: June 2015

Questions

Which physical or chemical removal method is most effective in controlling woody invasive alien plant (IAP) species in sensitive conservation areas, while minimizing the impact on different life stages of native plant communities? Is there a distinct influence of removal method on successional trajectories of post‐treatment seedling communities?

Location

Mid‐altitude inselbergs, Mahé, Seychelles, Indian Ocean.

Methods

We conducted two field experiments. First, to test the effects of four IAP control methods (cut, 5%, 10%, 15% Tordon 101 herbicide concentration) on ten woody IAP species, we treated a total of 320 adults and monitored mortality for 18 wk. Second, we set up five blocks each with four plots (4 m × 4 m) at three inselberg sites (N = 60 plots) and recorded the response of seedlings, saplings and adults of all native and IAP species to four Tordon 101 (a.i. picloram and 2,4‐D) herbicide and manual control treatments (cut, cut‐stump, foliar spray, control) over 22 mo. Treatment effects were analysed with GLMM models, and community responses were investigated with NMDS and multivariate ANOVA.

Results

The first experiment showed that IAP mortality (98.3%) was similar across all three herbicide concentrations, but markedly higher than mortality of cut plants (42.5%). In the second experiment, abundance, but not diversity, of native seedlings declined with herbicide application in the first 6 mo after treatment. Ordination analysis showed that seedling communities experienced high turnover driven by early successional IAP species and abundance, and that between‐plot variation was determined by site‐specific differences, with only a weak treatment effect. Foliar spray resulted in high mortality of native saplings (52.7%) and adults (18.3%), and both herbicide applications reduced adult growth over a post‐treatment period of 12 mo.

Conclusion

IAP removal controlled plant invasion processes and altered community composition in the short term, regardless of removal method. Post‐treatment trajectories of seedling communities are determined by site‐specific differences. Chemicals can strongly increase the efficacy of IAP control, but short‐term detrimental effects on native saplings and adults may be expected. As re‐invasion by IAPs is likely, a long‐term restoration plan is required. Management strategies that aim to conserve β‐diversity should employ a landscape approach to habitat restoration to buffer against site idiosyncrasies.
Cardiovascular drugs and erectile dysfunction – a symmetry analysis
Authors: Rasmussen Lotte , Hallas Jesper , Madsen Kenneth Grønkjær , Pottegård Anton
Published: June 2015

Aim

Erectile dysfunction is a common problem among patients with cardiovascular diseases and the influence of cardiovascular drugs is much debated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the short term potential for different cardiovascular drugs to affect the risk of being prescribed a drug against erectile dysfunction.

Methods

We employed a symmetry analysis design and included all Danish male individuals born before 1950 who filled their first ever prescription for a cardiovascular drug and a 5‐phosphodiesterase inhibitor within a 6 month interval during 2002–2012. If the cardiovascular drug induces erectile dysfunction, this would manifest as a non‐symmetrical distribution of subjects being prescribed the cardiovascular drug first vs. persons following the opposite pattern. Furthermore, we calculated the number of patients needed to treat for one additional patient to be treated for erectile dysfunction (NNTH).

Results

We identified 20 072 males with a median age of 64 years (IQR 60–70) who initiated a cardiovascular drug and a 5‐phosphodiesterase inhibitor within a 6 month interval. Sequence ratios showed minor asymmetry in prescription orders after adjustment for trends in prescribing. This asymmetry was most profound for thiazides (1.28, 95% CI 1.20, 1.38), calcium channel blockers (1.29, 95% CI 1.21, 1.38) and ACE inhibitors (1.29, 95% CI 1.21, 1.37), suggesting a small liability of these drugs to provoke erectile dysfunction. NNTH values were generally large, in the range of 330–6400, corresponding to small absolute effects.

Conclusion

Our study does not suggest that cardiovascular drugs strongly affect the risk of being prescribed a drug against erectile dysfunction on a short term basis.
Optimizing pharmacokinetic bridging studies in paediatric oncology using physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic modelling: application to docetaxel
Authors: Thai Hoai‐Thu , Mazuir Florent , Cartot‐Cotton Sylvaine , Veyrat‐Follet Christine
Published: June 2015

Aim

Applying physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modelling in paediatric cancer drug development is still challenging. We aimed to demonstrate how PBPK modelling can be applied to optimize dose and sampling times for a paediatric pharmacokinetic (PK) bridging study in oncology and to compare with the allometric scaling population PK (AS‐popPK) approach, using docetaxel as an example.

Methods

A PBPK model for docetaxel was first developed for adult cancer patients using Simcyp® and subsequently used to predict its PK profiles in children by accounting for age‐dependent physiological differences. Dose (mg m–2) requirements for children aged 0–18 years were calculated to achieve targeted exposure in adults. Simulated data were then analyzed using population PK modelling with MONOLIX® in order to perform design optimization with the population Fisher information matrix (PFIM). In parallel, the AS‐popPK approach was performed for the comparison.

Results

The PBPK model developed for docetaxel adequately predicted its PK profiles in both adult and paediatric cancer patients (predicted clearance and volume of distribution within 1.5 fold of observed data). The revised dose of docetaxel for a child over 1.5 years old was higher than the adult dose. Considering clinical constraints, the optimal design contained two groups of 15 patients, having three or four sampling times and had good predicted relative standard errors (RSE<30%) for almost all parameters. The AS‐popPK approach performed reasonably well but could not predict for very young children.

Conclusion

This research shows the clinical utility of PBPK modelling in combination with population PK modelling and optimal design to support paediatric oncology development.
Maturation and Dysgenesis of the Human Olfactory Bulb
Authors: Sarnat Harvey B. , Yu Weiming
Published: June 2015

The olfactory bulb with its unique architecture was studied for neuronal maturation in human fetuses. Neuroblasts stream into the olfactory bulb from the rostral telencephalon and secondarily migrate radially. The transitory olfactory ventricular recess regresses postnatally. Olfactory is the only sensory system without thalamic projections but incorporates intrinsic thalamic equivalents. The bulb is a repository of progenitor cells. Maturation of the bulb and tract was studied in 18 normal human fetuses of 16–41 weeks gestation; mid‐gestational twins with hydrocephalus; 7 arrhinencephaly/holoprosencephaly; 2 olfactory dysgeneses. Multiple immunoreactivities were performed. Synaptophysin around mitral neurons, in a few synaptic glomeruli and concentric lamination of the outer granular layer, was seen at 16 weeks. Outer granular neurons exhibited NeuN at 16 weeks, only 2/3 were reactive at term. Concentric alternating sheets of granular neurons and their dendrodendritic synapses are seen during maturation. Calretinin reactivity is seen in neurons and neurites, primary olfactory nerve axons, periglomerular cells and neuroepithelial cells surrounding the ventricular recess; reactivity occurs later in synaptic glomeruli than with synaptophysin; not all glomeruli are strongly reactive even at term. Nestin‐ and vimentin‐reactive bipolar progenitor cells were demonstrated at all ages and extend into the olfactory tract. Myelin is demonstrated by Luxol fast blue (LFB) only postnatally. In hydrocephalus, the olfactory recess is dilated. Mitral cell dispersion, disrupted glomeruli, heterotopia and maturational delay are seen in some dysgeneses. Malformations exhibit unique findings. Fusion of hypoplastic bulbs can occur. Abnormal architecture is seen in hemimegalencephaly. More documentation of olfactory dysgenesis is needed in other major brain malformations.
Controls on intermontane basin filling, isolation and incision on the margin of the Puna Plateau, NW Argentina (~23°S)
Authors: Streit Rebecca L. , Burbank Douglas W. , Strecker Manfred R. , Alonso Ricardo N. , Cottle John M. , Kylander‐Clark Andrew R.C.
Published: June 2015

Intermontane basins are illuminating stratigraphic archives of uplift, denudation and environmental conditions within the heart of actively growing mountain ranges. Commonly, however, it is difficult to determine from the sedimentary record of an individual basin whether basin formation, aggradation and dissection were controlled primarily by climatic, tectonic or lithological changes and whether these drivers were local or regional in nature. By comparing the onset of deposition, sediment‐accumulation rates, incision, deformation, changes in fluvial connectivity and sediment provenance in two interrelated intermontane basins, we can identify diverse controls on basin evolution. Here, we focus on the Casa Grande basin and the adjacent Humahuaca basin along the eastern margin of the Puna Plateau in northwest Argentina. Underpinning this analysis is the robust temporal framework provided by U‐Pb geochronology of multiple volcanic ashes and our new magnetostratigraphical record in the Humahuaca basin. Between 3.8 and 0.8 Ma, ~120 m of fluvial and lacustrine sediments accumulated in the Casa Grande basin as the rate of uplift of the Sierra Alta, the bounding range to its east, outpaced fluvial incision by the Río Yacoraite, which presently flows eastward across the range into the Humahuaca basin. Detrital zircon provenance analysis indicates a progressive loss of fluvial connectivity from the Casa Grande basin to the downstream Humahuaca basin between 3 and 2.1 Ma, resulting in the isolation of the Casa Grande basin from 2.1 Ma to <1.7 Ma. This episode of basin isolation is attributed to aridification due to the uplift of the ranges to the east. Enhanced aridity decreased sediment supply to the Casa Grande basin to the point that aggradation could no longer keep pace with the rate of the surface uplift at the outlet of the basin. Synchronous events in the Casa Grande and Humahuaca basins suggest that both the initial onset of deposition above unconformities at ~3.8 Ma and the re‐establishment of fluvial connectivity at ~0.8 Ma were controlled by climatic and/or tectonic changes affecting both basins. Reintegration of the fluvial network allowed subsequent incision in the Humahuaca basin to propagate upstream into the Casa Grande basin.
Monocytes from patients with rheumatoid arthritis and type 2 diabetes mellitus display an increased production of interleukin (IL)-1β via the nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat containing family pyrin 3(NLRP3)-inflammasome activation: a possible implication for therapeutic decision in these patients
Authors: Ruscitti P , Cipriani P , Di Benedetto P , Liakouli V , Berardicurti O , Carubbi F , Ciccia F , Alvaro S , Triolo G , Giacomelli R
Published: June 2015

A better understanding about the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) showed that inflammatory cytokines such as tumour necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin (IL)-1β play a pivotal role, mirroring data largely reported in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). IL-1β is produced mainly by monocytes (MO), and hyperglycaemia may be able to modulate, in the cytoplasm of these cells, the assembly of a nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat containing family pyrin (NLRP3)-inflammosome, a cytosolic multi-protein platform where the inactive pro-IL-1β is cleaved into active form, via caspase-1 activity. In this paper, we evaluated the production of IL-1 β and TNF, in peripheral blood MO of patients affected by RA or T2D or both diseases, in order to understand if an alteration of the glucose metabolism may influence their proinflammatory status. Our data showed, after 24 h of incubation with different glucose concentrations, a significantly increased production of IL-1β and TNF in all evaluated groups when compared with healthy controls. However, a significant increase of IL-1β secretion by T2D/RA was observed when compared with other groups. The analysis of relative mRNA expression confirmed these data. After 24 h of incubation with different concentrations of glucose, our results showed a significant increase in NLRP3 expression. In this work, an increased production of IL-1β by MO obtained from patients affected by both RA and T2D via NLRP3-inflammasome activation may suggest a potential IL-1β targeted therapy in these patients.
Young Children as Wayfarers: Learning about Place by Moving Through It
Authors: Hackett Abigail
Published: June 2015

This article describes the walking and moving of young children around places. It is based on an ethnographic study of children aged between 24 and 36 months visiting a museum. Drawing on Ingold's (2007) concept of wayfaring, the author argues movement through place creates embodied, tacit ways of knowing and experiencing the world. This embodied and tacit knowledge is not well‐accounted for in dominant models of how young children learn. In this study, wayfaring both enabled the children to learn about places and routes, and led to the development of traditions, in which collective meanings and actions were attached to particular locations.
Survival and patient satisfaction of short implants during the first 2 years of function: a retrospective cohort study with 694 implants in 416 patients
Authors: Hentschel Andreas , Herrmann Jan , Glauche Ingmar , Vollmer Armin , Schlegel Karl Andreas , Lutz Rainer
Published: June 2015

Objectives

The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of implant length on implant survival and patient satisfaction during the first 24 months in function.

Material and methods

A retrospective cohort of 312 “short” Straumann® SLActive® implants (length ≤ 8 mm) in 224 patients, which were inserted between 2008 and 2010 in private practice, were evaluated. The mean observation period was 26.7 ± 9.7 months. Three hundred and eighty‐two Straumann SLActive® implants in 192 patients with a length ≥ 12 mm served as control group. The mean observation period in the control group was 28.3 ± 10.1 months. Implant survival rate, crown‐to‐implant ratio, resonance frequency analysis, and patient satisfaction were evaluated.

Results

Implant survival rate was 99% in the test vs. 98.7% in the control group. The crown‐to‐implant ratio was significantly higher in the control group (P < 0.0001). Resonance frequency analysis showed slightly higher values for the short implants. There was a tendency to higher satisfaction (Oral Health Impact Profile [OHIP]) in the test group without statistical significant differences but a high overall satisfaction in both groups.

Conclusion

Within the limits of the present investigation, implant length had no significant influence on implant survival during the first 24 months of function of the specific implant system with hydrophilic surface (SLActive®). Further follow‐up studies are required to evaluate long‐term results of the reduced implant length.
A global assessment of the social and conservation outcomes of protected areas
Authors: Oldekop J. A. , Holmes G. , Harris W. E. , Evans K. L.
Published: June 2015

Protected areas (PAs) are a key strategy for protecting biological resources, but they vary considerably in their effectiveness and are frequently reported as having negative impacts on local people. This has contributed to a divisive and unresolved debate concerning the compatibility of environmental and socioeconomic development goals. Elucidating the relationship between positive and negative social impacts and conservation outcomes of PAs is key for the development of more effective and socially just conservation. We conducted a global meta‐analysis on 165 PAs using data from 171 published studies. We assessed how PAs affect the well‐being of local people, the factors associated with these impacts, and crucially the relationship between PAs’ conservation and socioeconomic outcomes. Protected areas associated with positive socioeconomic outcomes were more likely to report positive conservation outcomes. Positive conservation and socioeconomic outcomes were more likely to occur when PAs adopted comanagement regimes, empowered local people, reduced economic inequalities, and maintained cultural and livelihood benefits. Whereas the strictest regimes of PA management attempted to exclude anthropogenic influences to achieve biological conservation objectives, PAs that explicitly integrated local people as stakeholders tended to be more effective at achieving joint biological conservation and socioeconomic development outcomes. Strict protection may be needed in some circumstances, yet our results demonstrate that conservation and development objectives can be synergistic and highlight management strategies that increase the probability of maximizing both conservation performance and development outcomes of PAs.
Stemming the Tide of Light Pollution Encroaching into Marine Protected Areas
Authors: Davies Thomas W. , Duffy James P. , Bennie Jon , Gaston Kevin J.
Published: June 2015

Many marine ecosystems are shaped by regimes of natural light guiding the behavior of their constituent species. As evidenced from terrestrial systems, the global introduction of nighttime lighting is likely influencing these behaviors, restructuring marine ecosystems, and compromising the services they provide. Yet the extent to which marine habitats are exposed to artificial light at night is unknown. We quantified nighttime artificial light across the world's network of marine protected areas (MPAs). Artificial light is widespread and increasing in a large percentage of MPAs. While increases are more common among MPAs associated with human activity, artificial light is encroaching into a large proportion of even those marine habitats protected with the strongest legislative designations. Given the current lack of statutory tools, we propose that allocating “Marine Dark Sky Park” status to MPAs will help incentivize responsible authorities to hold back the advance of artificial light.
Mammalian target of rapamycin inhibition after solid organ transplantation: can it, and does it, reduce cancer risk?
Authors: Bhat Mamatha , Watt Kymberly D.
Published: June 2015

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors sirolimus and everolimus has been increasingly used as immunosuppressants for recipients of solid organ transplants. Over the years, potential advantages unique to this class of immunosuppressants have been recognized, including chemoprevention by virtue of their antiproliferative effects. Prevention of malignancy after transplant through mTOR inhibitor‐based immunosuppression may have a specific practical application in transplant recipients with preexisting malignancy including hepatocellular carcinoma or cholangiocarcinoma. This review will reveal how the biochemistry of the mTOR pathway, as it pertains to chemoprevention, can support a clinical role for mTOR inhibitors in the prevention of malignancies, recurrent or de novo, after solid organ transplantation in selected patients.
Impact of the new fast track kidney allocation scheme for declined kidneys in the United Kingdom
Authors: White Alan D. , Roberts Heather , Ecuyer Clare , Brady Kathryn , Pathak Samir , Clark Brendan , Hostert Lutz H. , Attia Magdy S. , Wellberry‐Smith Matthew , Hudson Alex , Ahmad Niaz
Published: June 2015

Introduction

A “new” fast track kidney allocation scheme (FTKAS) was implemented in the UK in 2012 for offering of previously declined kidneys. We evaluated the impact of the FTKAS in utilization of declined kidneys and outcome.

Methods

Adult renal transplant centers were surveyed. Overall utilization was evaluated using National Health Service Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) data. Outcome of FTKAS kidneys in our center was analyzed.

Results

Centers cited graft, patient outcome concerns, and inadequate logistical support for their non‐FTKAS participation. In the first year of the scheme, 266 kidneys were offered through the FTKAS, 158 were transplanted in 10 centers (59%). In comparison, 166 kidneys were offered through previous system over five yr (2006–2011), and 65 were utilized in 59 transplants (39%). In our center, 42 kidneys were transplanted in 39 recipients. One‐yr graft and patient survival were both 95%. Results were comparable to a matched group of kidney transplants during the same periods allocated via the standard scheme.

Conclusions

The FTKAS has led to effective utilization of the declined kidneys with outcome comparable to kidneys allocated through the standard scheme. Non‐participation based on outcome concerns is mostly subjective while logistical issues need to be addressed.
Associations between emotional distress and heavy drinking among young people: A longitudinal study
Authors: Pape Hilde , Norström Thor
Published: June 2015

Introduction and Aims

This study adds to the meagre body of longitudinal research on the link between emotional distress and alcohol use among young people. We address the following research questions: Are symptoms of anxiety and depressed mood likely to be causally related to heavy episodic drinking (HED)? Does the association change as individuals move from adolescence to early adulthood?

Design and Methods

Data stemmed from a national sample of young people in Norway that was assessed in 1992 (T1; mean age = 14.9 years), 1994 (T2), 1999 (T3) and 2005 (T4) (response rate: 60%, n = 2171). We applied fixed‐effects modelling, implying that intra‐individual changes in the frequency of HED were regressed on intra‐individual changes in emotional distress. Hence, confounding due to stable underlying influences was eliminated. Self‐perceived loneliness was included as a time‐varying covariate.

Results

Emotional distress was unrelated to HED in adolescence (T1 to T2). In the transition from adolescence to early adulthood (T2 to T3), changes in depressiveness were positively and independently associated with changes in HED, whereas changes symptoms of anxiety were not. A similar pattern emerged in early adulthood (T3 to T4).

Discussion and Conclusions

The potential causal relationship between emotional distress and heavy drinking did not manifest itself in adolescence, but increased symptoms of depressiveness were related to more frequent HED in subsequent periods of life. Hence, this study provides conditional support to the notion that emotional distress and HED may be causally related and indicates that the association among young people may be specific to depressiveness. [Pape H, Norström T. Associations between emotional distress and heavy drinking among young people: A longitudinal study. Drug Alcohol Rev 2016;35:170–6]
Children with unilateral cerebral palsy show diminished implicit motor imagery with the affected hand
Authors: Jongsma Marijtje L A , Baas C Marjolein , Sangen Anouk F M , Aarts Pauline B M , van der Lubbe Rob H J , Meulenbroek Ruud G J , Steenbergen Bert
Published: June 2015

Aim

Motor imagery refers to the mental simulation of a motor action without producing an overt movement. Implicit motor imagery can be regarded as a first‐person kinesthetic perceptual judgement, and addresses the capacity to engage into the manipulation of one's body schema. In this study, we examined whether children with unilateral cerebral palsy (CP) are able to engage in implicit motor imagery.

Method

A modified version of the hand laterality judgment task was employed. Erroneous responses, reaction times, and event‐related potentials from the electroencephalograph were analysed.

Results

In 13 children with typical development (mean age 10y 7mo, SD 1y 2mo; seven male, six female), we observed the classic rotation direction effect. Specifically, when comparing outward rotated with inward rotated hand pictures, decreased accuracy and increased response times were observed. Event‐related potentials analyses of the electroencephalogram revealed a more marked N1 and an enhanced rotation‐related negativity.

Interpretation

These findings suggest that an implicit motor imagery strategy was used to solve the task. However, in 10 children with unilateral CP (mean age 10y 7mo, SD 2y 5mo; five male, five female), these effects were observed only when the less‐affected hand was involved. This observation suggests that children with CP could benefit from visual training strategies.
Pain sensitivity of children with Down syndrome and their siblings: quantitative sensory testing versus parental reports
Authors: Valkenburg Abraham J , Tibboel Dick , van Dijk Monique
Published: June 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to compare thermal detection and pain thresholds in children with Down syndrome with those of their siblings.

Method

Sensory detection and pain thresholds were assessed in children with Down syndrome and their siblings using quantitative testing methods. Parental questionnaires addressing developmental age, pain coping, pain behaviour, and chronic pain were also utilized.

Results

Forty‐two children with Down syndrome (mean age 12y 10mo) and 24 siblings (mean age 15y) participated in this observational study. The different sensory tests proved feasible in 13 to 29 (33–88%) of the children with Down syndrome. These children were less sensitive to cold and warmth than their siblings, but only when measured with a reaction time‐dependent method, and not with a reaction time‐independent method. Children with Down syndrome were more sensitive to heat pain, and only 6 (14%) of them were able to adequately self‐report pain, compared with 22 (92%) of siblings (p<0.001).

Interpretation

Children with Down syndrome will remain dependent on pain assessment by proxy, since self‐reporting is not adequate. Parents believe that their children with Down syndrome are less sensitive to pain than their siblings, but this was not confirmed by quantitative sensory testing.
Sydenham's chorea: beyond involuntary movements
Authors: Teixeira Antonio Lucio
Published: June 2015

This commentary is on the systematic review by Punukollu et al. on pages 16–28 of this issue.
Type 1 diabetes and risk of fracture: meta‐analysis and review of the literature
Authors: Shah V. N. , Shah C. S. , Snell‐Bergeon J. K.
Published: June 2015

Aims

To conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis of observational studies in order to assess the association between Type 1 diabetes and fractures.

Background

The risk of fracture in men and women with Type 1 diabetes has not been studied in a large prospective well designed cohort.

Methods

Data were selected from Medline and Embase and abstracts from annual scientific meetings of various diabetes and bone and mineral societies. Published studies that reported the fracture risk in people with Type 1 diabetes in comparison with people without diabetes between 1990 and July 2014 and abstracts from various annual meeting (2005 onwards) were included in the present meta‐analysis. Data were extracted from the text of included publications or from abstracts of conferences.

Results

The 14 studies that met the inclusion criteria reported 2066 fracture events among 27 300 people with Type 1 diabetes (7.6%) and 136 579 fracture events among 4 364 125 people without diabetes (3.1%). The pooled relative risk of any fracture in people with Type 1 diabetes was 3.16 (95% CI 1.51–6.63; P = 0.002). Women and men with Type 1 diabetes had a four and two times higher risk of any fractures, respectively, compared with people without diabetes. The pooled relative risks of hip fractures and spinal fractures were 3.78 (95% CI 2.05–6.98; P < 0.001) and 2.88 (95% CI 1.71–4.82; P < 0.001), respectively, among people with Type 1 diabetes.

Conclusions

Our meta‐analysis suggests that both men and women with Type 1 diabetes might have an increased risk of any fractures. A large prospective epidemiological study is needed to confirm our findings.
Low serum omentin levels in the elderly population with Type 2 diabetes and polyneuropathy
Authors: Herder C. , Bongaerts B. W. C. , Ouwens D. M. , Rathmann W. , Heier M. , Carstensen‐Kirberg M. , Koenig W. , Thorand B. , Roden M. , Meisinger C. , Ziegler D. ,   for the KORA Study Group
Published: June 2015

Aims

To investigate the hypothesis that high serum levels of omentin, an adipokine with anti‐inflammatory, insulin‐sensitizing and cardioprotective properties, may be related to a lower risk of diabetic sensorimotor polyneuropathy.

Methods

The association between serum omentin level and polyneuropathy was estimated in people aged 61–82 years with Type 2 diabetes (47 with and 168 without polyneuropathy) from the population‐based KORA F4 study. The presence of clinical diabetic sensorimotor polyneuropathy was defined as bilateral impairment of foot vibration perception and/or foot pressure sensation. Omentin levels were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Serum omentin level was inversely associated with polyneuropathy after adjustment for age, sex, height, waist circumference, hypertension, total cholesterol, smoking, alcohol intake and physical activity [odds ratio 0.45 (95% CI 0.21–0.98); P = 0.043]. Although omentin was positively correlated with adiponectin (r = 0.55, P < 0.0001) and inversely with tumour necrosis factor‐α (r = ‐0.30, P = 0.019), additional adjustment for adiponectin and tumour necrosis factor‐α had little impact on the association.

Conclusions

Serum levels of omentin are reduced in people with Type 2 diabetes and diabetic sensorimotor polyneuropathy, independently of established risk factors of polyneuropathy. This association is only partially explained by biomarkers of subclinical inflammation.
Right Ventricular Structure and Function in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis with or without Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: D'Andrea Antonello , Stanziola Anna , Di Palma Enza , Martino Maria , D'Alto Michele , Dellegrottaglie Santo , Cocchia Rosangela , Riegler Lucia , Betancourt Cordido Meredyth Vanessa , Lanza Maurizia , Maglione Marco , Diana Veronica , Calabrò Raffaele , Russo Maria Giovanna , Vannan Mani , Bossone Eduardo
Published: June 2015

Aims

To elucidate right ventricular (RV) function in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) with and without pulmonary hypertension (PH) and its relation to other features of the disease.

Methods and Results

Clinical evaluation, standard Doppler echo, Doppler myocardial imaging (DMI), and 2D strain echocardiography (STE) of RV septal and lateral walls were performed in 52 IPF patients (66.5 ± 8.5 years; 27 males) and in 45 age‐ and sex‐comparable controls using a commercial US system (MyLab Alpha, Esaote). Pulmonary artery mean pressure (mPAP) was estimated by standard echo Doppler. RV global longitudinal strain (RV GLS) was calculated by averaging RV local strains. The IPF patients were divided into 2 groups by noninvasive assessment of PH: no PH (mPAP<25 mmHg; 36 pts) and PH (mPAP ≥25 mmHg; 16 pts). Left ventricular diameters and ejection fraction were comparable between controls and IPF, while GLS was impaired in IPF (P < 0.01). RV end‐diastolic diameters, wall thickness andmPAP were increased in IPF patients with PH. In addition, pulsed DMI detected in PH IPF impaired myocardial RV early diastolic (Em) peak velocity. Also peak systolic RV strain was reduced in basal and middle RV lateral free walls in IPF, as well as RV GLS (P < 0.0001). The impairment in RV wall strain was more evident when comparing controls with the no PH group than comparing the no PH group with the PH group. By multivariate analysis, independent association of RV strain with both six‐minute walking test distance (P < 0.001), mPAP (P < 0.0001), as well as with forced vital capacity (FVC) % (P < 0.005) in IPF patients were observed.

Conclusions

Impaired RV diastolic and systolic myocardial function were present even in IPF patients without PH, which indicates an early impact on RV function and structure in patients with IPF.
Preconception folic acid use influences the follicle fluid proteome
Authors: Twigt John M. , Bezstarosti Karel , Demmers Jeroen , Lindemans Jan , Laven Joop S. E. , Steegers‐Theunissen Régine P.
Published: June 2015

Background

The investigation of the human follicle fluid proteome has gained much interest in the search of new markers as predictors for in vitro fertilization and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) treatment outcome. Follicular fluid folate, as substrate of one carbon (1‐C) metabolism, affects follicular metabolism and oocyte and embryo quality. From this background, we aim to identify a folate‐related follicle fluid proteome that associates with IVF/ICSI treatment outcome.

Methods

In a nested case–control study embedded in a periconception cohort, we performed qualitative and quantitative proteomic analyses using nanoflow LC‐MS/MS and TMT labelling in 30 monofollicular fluid samples from women undergoing IVF/ICSI treatment of which 15 used and 15 did not use a folic acid supplement. The protein data are analysed using scaffold proteome Software and differential abundances are expressed as Log2‐fold change. Blood samples were obtained before and after treatment for determination of biomarkers of 1‐C metabolism and estradiol.

Results

We identified 227 uniquely expressed proteins in follicular fluid. In folic acid supplement users compared to nonusers, we established a lower abundance of C‐reactive protein (−2·03; P = < 0·01) and higher abundances of apolipoproteins from high‐density lipoprotein (HDL), most notably A‐I (+1·28; P = < 0·01) and C‐I (+1·11; P = 0·016).

Conclusion

Preconception folic acid supplement use is associated with suppression of the inflammatory pathway and upregulation of the HDL pathway in human follicular fluid, being a preferential source of cholesterol for steroid hormone synthesis. Studies are needed on the tissue specificity and on the beneficial effects of embryo quality and IVF/ICSI treatment outcome of the proteome of these pathways.