bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of abutment material on peri‐implant soft tissues in anterior areas with thin gingival biotype: a multicentric prospective study
Authors: Lops Diego , Stellini Edoardo , Sbricoli Luca , Cea Niccolò , Romeo Eugenio , Bressan Eriberto
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The aim of the present clinical trial was to analyze, through spectrophotometric digital technology, the influence of the abutment material on the color of the peri‐implant soft tissue in patients with thin gingival biotype.

Material and methods

Thirty‐seven patients received an endosseous dental implant in the anterior maxilla. At time of each definitive prosthesis delivery, an all‐ceramic crown has been tried on gold, titanium and zirconia abutment. Peri‐implant soft‐tissue color has been measured through a spectrophotometer after the insertion of each single abutment. Also facial peri‐implant soft‐tissue thickness was measured at the level of the implant neck through a caliper. A specific software has been utilized to identify a standardized tissue area and to collect the data before the statistical analysis in Lab* color space. ΔE parameters of the selected abutments were tested for correlation with mucosal thickness. Pearson correlation test was used.

Results

Only 15 patients met the study inclusion criteria on peri‐implant soft‐tissue thickness. Peri‐implant soft‐tissue color was different from that around natural teeth, no matter which type of restorative material was selected. Measurements regarding all the abutments were above the critical threshold of ΔE 8.74 for intraoral color distinction by the naked eye. The ΔE mean values of gold and zirconium abutments were similar (11.43 and 11.37, respectively) and significantly lower (P = 0.03 and P = 0.04, respectively) than the titanium abutment (13.55). In patients with a facial soft‐tissue thickness ≤2 mm, the ΔE mean value of gold and zirconia abutments was significantly lower than that of titanium abutments (P = 0.03 and P = 0.04, respectively) and much more close to the reference threshold of 8.74.

Conclusions

For peri‐implant soft tissue of ≤2 mm, gold or zirconia abutments could be selected in anterior areas treatment. Moreover, the thickness of the peri‐implant soft tissue seemed to be a crucial factor in the abutment impact on the color of soft tissues with a thickness of ≤2 mm.
Primary cutaneous adenosquamous carcinoma of the penis: the first characterization of HPV status in this rare and diagnostically challenging entity with review of glandular carcinomas of the penis
Authors: Rush P.S. , Shiau J.M. , Hibler B.P. , Longley B.J. , Downs T.M. , Bennett D.D.
Published: October 2016

Glandular and pseudoglandular tumors of the penile skin are extremely uncommon and can present diagnostic challenges. Primary adenosquamous carcinoma of the penis is an extremely rare tumor, composed of distinct areas of malignant squamous and glandular cells, making it a diagnostically challenging entity. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes several subtypes of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), each with its own distinctive pathologic appearance, clinical associations and prognosis. Among these variants is the exceedingly uncommon adenosquamous carcinoma (ASC), representing 1%–2% of all SCC of the penis. Recent large studies have interrogated the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) in malignant penile tumors and have shown specific morphologic patterns and clinical presentations to associate with HPV status. However, given the rarity of the adenosquamous variant of SCC, it has largely been excluded from these studies. The glandular components of these lesions can present a confusing appearance, particularly when a large tumor is represented on a small biopsy. Here we describe a difficult histologic presentation of this rare tumor, with the first published characterization of the HPV status of this subtype. This case represents a distinctly unusual case of metastatic HPV‐positive primary cutaneous adenosquamous carcinoma of the penis.
Evaluating the Usefulness of Compulsory Licensing in Developing Countries: A Comparative Study of Thai and Brazilian Experiences Regarding Access to Aids Treatments
Authors: Guennif Samira
Published: October 2016

While compulsory licensing (CL) is described in the TRIPS agreement as flexibility to protect public health by improving access to medicines in developing countries, a recent literature contends adversely that CL may harm public health. Therefore, this article intends to evaluate the usefulness of CL in the South through the prism of obligations and goals entrusted to patent holders (the effective and non‐abusive exploitation of patents in order to achieve industrial and health developments) and in light of experiences in Thailand and Brazil regarding access to antiretroviral drugs. In this way, it shows that the obligations assigned to patent holders were better served by the recipients of CL and brought significant health and industrial benefits in the two high middle‐income countries. In particular, CL allowed the scaling‐up of free and universal access to antiretroviral drugs by assuring the financial sustainability of these public health programs endangered by monopolistic practices from patent holders.
The Vulnerability of Study Participants in the Context of Transnational Biomedical Research: From Conceptual Considerations to Practical Implications
Authors: Orth Helen Grete , Schicktanz Silke
Published: October 2016

Outsourcing clinical trials sponsored by pharmaceutical companies from industrialized countries to low‐ (middle)‐income countries – summarized as transnational biomedical research (TBR) – has lead to many concerns about ethical standards. Whether study participants are particularly vulnerable is one of those concerns. However, the concept of vulnerability is still vague and varies in its definition. Despite the fact that important international ethical guidelines such as the Declaration of Helsinki by the World Medical Association or the Ethical Guidelines for Biomedical Research Involving Human Subjects by the Council of International Organizations of Medical Sciences refer to vulnerability as ethical principle, each of their approaches are different. To overcome these shortcomings, we analyze and unite different approaches of vulnerability and develop practical criteria in order to operationalize the concept especially for the context of TBR. These criteria refer to the context of a study as well as the characteristics and the current living situation of study participants. Based on a case study of an HIV‐vaccine‐trial conducted in India we demonstrate how those criteria can be applied in a retrospective way to identify potential ethical conflicts. The criteria can also indicate a prospective function for ethical pre‐assessment. For this, we provide an outlook for three major topics: 1. Vulnerability as a normative concept: Different ways of protection; 2. The relevance of transparency and 3. Vulnerability as an instrument to increase decision participation of human subjects.
The impact of EndoBarrier gastrointestinal liner in obese patients with normal glucose tolerance and in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Rohde Ulrich , Federspiel Cecilie A. , Vilmann Peter , Langholz Ebbe , Friis Steffen U. , Krakauer Martin , Rehfeld Jens F. , Holst Jens J. , Vilsbøll Tina , Knop Filip K.
Published: October 2016

Aims

The duodenal‐jejunal bypass sleeve ((DJBS) or EndoBarrier Gastrointestinal Liner) induces weight loss in obese subjects and may improve glucose homeostasis in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). To explore the underlying mechanisms, we evaluated postprandial physiology including glucose metabolism, gut hormone secretion, gallbladder emptying, appetite and food intake in patients undergoing DJBS treatment.

Material and methods

A total of 10 normal glucose‐tolerant (NGT) obese subjects and 9 age‐, body weight‐ and body mass index‐matched metformin‐treated T2D patients underwent a liquid mixed meal test and a subsequent ad libitum meal test before implantation with DJBS and 1 week (1w) and 26 weeks (26w) after implantation.

Results

At 26w, both groups had achieved a weight loss of 6 to 7 kg. Postprandial glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) and peptide YY responses increased at 1w and 26w, but only in T2D subjects. In contrast, glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide responses were reduced only by DJBS in the NGT group. Postprandial glucose, insulin, C‐peptide, glucagon, cholecystokinin and gastrin responses were unaffected by DJBS in both groups. Satiety and fullness sensations were stronger and food intake was reduced at 1w in NGT subjects; no changes in appetite measures or food intake were observed in the T2D group. No effect of DJBS on postprandial gallbladder emptying was observed, and gastric emptying was not delayed.

Conclusions

DJBS‐induced weight loss was associated with only marginal changes in postprandial physiology, which may explain the absence of effect on postprandial glucose metabolism.
Rab11 collaborates E‐cadherin to promote collective cell migration and indicates a poor prognosis in colorectal carcinoma
Authors: Chung Yuan‐Chiang , Wei Wan‐Chen , Hung Chia‐Nung , Kuo Jen‐Fang , Hsu Chih‐Ping , Chang King‐Jen , Chao Wei‐Ting
Published: October 2016

Background

Collective cell migration, whereby the cell–cell contacts such as E‐cadherin are maintained during migration, has only recently emerged, and its detailed mechanisms are still unclear. In this study, the role of Rab11, which functions in recycling endosomes, and its relationship to E‐cadherin in colorectal carcinoma were identified, and the role of Rab11 in the collective cell migration of colon cancer cells was clarified.

Materials and methods

A total of 107 patients with surgically resected colorectal carcinoma were enrolled in this immunohistochemical study. Relationships between the overexpression of Rab11 and E‐cadherin and survival were evaluated. The cell biology of Rab11 overexpression or knock‐down in HT‐29 colon cells was studied.

Results

The expression of Rab11 and E‐cadherin was not correlated with the stage of cancer or lymph node metastasis. However, the overall survival was poor in the group of 67 patients with duo‐positive Rab11 and E‐cadherin expression compared to the group (40 patients) without dual‐positive expression (P = 0·038). Rab11 was demonstrated to have a physical interaction with E‐cadherin, and overexpression of Rab11 was found to promote collective cell migration through the increased distribution of E‐cadherin, which enhanced cell–cell connections. In addition, Rac1 activation and matrix metalloproteinase‐2 expressions were upregulated upon Rab11 expression.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that Rab11 and E‐cadherin expressions are indicators of poor survival time in colorectal carcinoma, but that Rab11 overexpression may contribute to increased collective cell invasion in colorectal carcinoma.
Relationship between mechanical properties and bond durability of short fiber‐reinforced resin composite with universal adhesive
Authors: Tsujimoto Akimasa , Barkmeier Wayne W. , Takamizawa Toshiki , Watanabe Hidehiko , Johnson William W. , Latta Mark A. , Miyazaki Masashi
Published: October 2016

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between mechanical properties and bond durability of short fiber‐reinforced resin composite with universal adhesive. As controls, micro‐hybrid and nano‐hybrid resin composites were tested. The universal adhesives used were Scotchbond Universal, Adhese Universal, and G‐Premio Bond. The fracture toughness and flexural properties of resin composites, and shear bond strength and shear fatigue strength of universal adhesive with resin composite using both total‐etch and self‐etch modes were determined. In the results, short fiber‐reinforced resin composite showed significantly higher fracture toughness than did micro‐hybrid and nano‐hybrid resin composites. The flexural strength and modulus of short fiber‐reinforced and nano‐hybrid resin composites were significantly lower than were those of micro‐hybrid resin composites. Regardless of etching mode, the shear bond strength of universal adhesives with short fiber‐reinforced resin composite did not show any significant differences from micro‐hybrid and nano‐hybrid resin composites. The shear fatigue strength of universal adhesives with short fiber‐reinforced resin composite and micro‐hybrid resin composites were significantly higher than that of nano‐hybrid resin composites. The results of this study suggest that the mechanical properties of short fiber‐reinforced resin composite improve their bond durability with universal adhesive.
The anthelmintic effects of five plant extracts on the viability of Parascaris equorum larvae
Authors: Rakhshandehroo E. , Asadpour M. , Malekpour S. H. , Jafari A.
Published: October 2016

Ascariasis is a very common parasitic disease in equids, especially in young horses. Despite the use of anthelmintic drugs, resistance has been frequently reported in populations of Parascaris equorum. As a result, herbal preparations are proposed for current control strategies. In this study, a modified method was used for hatching the eggs of P. equorum. After hatching, the effects of methanolic extract of Artemisia dracunculus, Eucalyptus camadulensis, Mentha pulegium, Zataria multiflora and Allium sativum (garlic) were investigated on the recovered larvae. For each extract, the anthelmintic effects of different concentrations (50, 75, 100 and 125 mg/mL) were evaluated at 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40 min after the challenge. The results showed that our modifications to the older method could enhance the hatching rate for the eggs of P. equorum (to an average of 98%). Potassium dichromate was also demonstrated in this study to be a favourable medium during embryonation. In addition, all the concentrations of A. dracunculus and M. pulegium and higher levels (≥100 mg/mL concentrations) of Z. multiflora extracts had significant lethal effects on larvae from the first to the fourth 10 min of the experiment. In contrast, E. camadulensis and A. sativum had not marked effects on larvae viability at any time of the challenge. In conclusion, our data suggest that A. dracunculus, M. pulegium and Z. multiflora have potential to be used as anthelmintic for the control of ascariasis in equid host; however, these effects remain to be confirmed through in vivo studies.
Company Stock in Defined Contribution Plans: Evidence from Proxy Voting
Authors: Park Heejin
Published: October 2016

I examine whether firms’ decisions to offer company stock in defined contribution (DC) plans are explained by managers’ corporate control motives. Using a large sample of proxy voting outcomes, I find that employee ownership in DC plans is significantly and positively associated with the level of voting support for management‐sponsored proposals. This suggests that managers encourage employee DC holdings in company stock in order to receive higher voting support in favor of management. The effects of employee ownership on voting outcomes are significantly greater in specific subsamples where employee vote is more important to management.
Environmental DNA analysis for estimating the abundance and biomass of stream fish
Authors: Doi Hideyuki , Inui Ryutei , Akamatsu Yoshihisa , Kanno Kazuki , Yamanaka Hiroki , Takahara Teruhiko , Minamoto Toshifumi
Published: October 2016

Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis for detecting the presence of aquatic and terrestrial organisms is an established method, and the eDNA concentration of a species can reflect its abundance/biomass at a site. However, attempts to estimate the abundance/biomass of aquatic species using eDNA concentrations in large stream and river ecosystems have received little attention.

We determined the eDNA concentration and abundance/biomass of a stream fish, Plecoglossus altivelis, by conducting a snorkelling survey in the Saba River, Japan. Furthermore, we evaluated the relationship between eDNA concentrations and the estimated abundance/biomass of P. altivelis, and determined its spatial distribution within the river.

Across the three seasons from spring to autumn, we found significant correlations between the eDNA concentration of P. altivelis and its abundance/biomass at study sites within the river. We detected the eDNA at the sites where we found only feeding traces on stones (where P. altivelis was not directly observed), but not at sites without feeding traces. Additionally, we tested the optimal number of qPCR replicates needed for the eDNA evaluation of P. altivelis abundance and biomass; only a small number of replicates was required when the eDNA concentration was high.

Our findings suggest that eDNA analysis is a useful tool to estimate fish abundance/biomass as well as their spatial distribution in rivers.
Diet and Headache: Part 2
Authors: Martin Vincent T. , Vij Brinder
Published: October 2016

Background

Comprehensive diets do not require the exclusion of a specific provocative food or ingredient, but regulate the quantities of core components of foods such as vitamins, ions, proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.

Objectives

To review the evidence supporting the use of comprehensive diets in the prevention of migraine and other headache disorders and to discuss the mechanisms through which food, and ingredients within foods and beverages might trigger attacks of headache

Methods

This represents Part 2 of a narrative review of the role of diet in the prevention of migraine and other headache disorders. A PubMed search was performed with the following search terms: “folate,” “vitamin D,” “low fat diet,” “omega‐3 and omega‐6 fatty acid diet,” “ketogenic diet,” “Atkins diet,” and “sodium.” Each of these search terms was then crossreferenced with “headache” and “migraine” to identify relevant studies. Only studies that were written in English were included in this review.

Results

Low fat and high omega‐3/low omega‐6 fatty diets decrease the frequency of attacks of migraine and/or other headache disorders as demonstrated in two separate randomized controlled trials. A ketogenic diet was more effective than a standard diet in reducing the frequency of migraine in a single nonrandomized clinical study. An observation study found that dietary consumption of folate was inversely associated with the frequency of migraine attacks in persons with migraine with aura that have the C variant of the methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase gene. The mechanisms though which diets may precipitate headache include their effects on neuropeptides, neuro‐receptors and ion channels, inflammation, sympathetic nervous system, release of nitric oxide, vasodilation, and cerebral glucose metabolism.

Conclusions

Evidence exists to support the use of comprehensive diets in the prevention of migraine and other headache disorders. However, the results of these studies should be considered preliminary until replicated in larger randomized controlled clinical trials.
Assessment of quality of life, anxiety, socio‐economic factors and caries experience in Brazilian children with overweight and obesity
Authors: Araujo DS , Marquezin MCS , Barbosa TS , Fonseca FLA , Fegadolli C , Castelo PM
Published: October 2016

Purpose: This study evaluated the association between excess weight and quality of life (QoL), symptoms of anxiety, caries experience and socio‐economic factors in a representative sample of 8‐ to 10‐year‐old children from three public schools of Piracicaba (SP, Brazil). Materials and methods: The Autoquestionnaire Qualité de Vie Enfant Image was applied to explore family and social relations, activities, health, body functions and separation domains, and, by means of the Multidimensional Anxiety Scale for Children, symptoms of anxiety were screened. Clinical examination was performed using DMFT/dmft indexes to assess oral health and caries experience. Medical and nutritional history, parents’ schooling, monthly income and ownership of household goods and services were also evaluated. Results: Of the 313 subjects included, four subjects were underweight, 188 normal weight, 67 overweight and 54 presented obesity (38.7% with excess weight). Measures of QoL, anxiety scores and caries experience did not differ between groups. The regression model showed a significant association between excess weight and the ownership of household goods and services (OR = 5.4/CI = 1.6–18.3). Conclusions: High prevalence of excess weight was observed among prepubertal children, emphasizing the need for continued health programmes to limit risk factors for obesity. QoL, anxiety scores and caries experience did not differ between subjects with different body weights, although children from public schools with higher ownership of goods and services were more likely to present excess weight.
Voluntary or mandatory training participation as a moderator in the relationship between goal orientations and transfer of training
Authors: Gegenfurtner Andreas , Könings Karen D. , Kosmajac Nikola , Gebhardt Markus
Published: October 2016

Trainees can participate in organizational training programs voluntarily or mandatorily. To date, research has reported mixed evidence on the question whether voluntary or mandatory participation is associated with higher motivation and transfer of training. Grounded in the frameworks of participatory design, the notion of autonomy in basic psychological needs theory, and the 2 × 2 model of achievement goals, this meta‐analysis examined the relationship between goal orientations and transfer of training in contexts of voluntary and mandatory training participation with a sample of N = 4729 trainees in k = 29 studies. Goal orientations were conceptualized in four dimensions: mastery‐approach, mastery‐avoidance, performance‐approach, and performance‐avoidance. Results of the primary meta‐analysis indicated that mastery‐approach orientation had the most positive correlation with transfer of training, followed by performance‐approach, mastery‐avoidance and performance‐avoidance goal orientation. Meta‐analytic subgroup analysis examined the effects of two conditions for training participation: voluntary participation and mandatory participation. The findings indicated that training participation significantly moderated the correlation coefficients of mastery‐approach and performance‐avoidance goal orientation, with more positive estimates when training enrollment was voluntary. Contrary to expectations, the correlation coefficient between performance‐approach goal orientation and transfer of training was more positive when entry into training programs was obligatory and mandated. Implications for future research and the practice of training design and delivery are discussed.
Laparoendoscopic single‐site surgeries: A multicenter experience of 469 cases in Japan
Authors: Sato Fuminori , Nakagawa Ken , Kawauchi Akihiro , Matsubara Akio , Okegawa Takatsugu , Habuchi Tomonori , Yoshimura Koji , Hoshi Akio , Kinoshita Hidefumi , Miyajima Akira , Naitoh Yasuyuki , Inoue Shogo , Itaya Naoshi , Narita Shintaro , Hanai Kazuya , Okubo Kazutoshi , Yanishi Masaaki , Matsuda Tadashi , Terachi Toshiro , Mimata Hiromitsu
Published: October 2016

Objective

To report on a multi‐institutional series of non‐robotic urological laparoendoscopic single‐site surgery in Japan.

Methods

Consecutive cases of laparoendoscopic single‐site surgery carried out between February 2009 and December 2012 at nine academic institutions were included. We examined the surgical outcomes, including conversion and complications rates.

Results

Four hundred and sixty‐nine cases were included in the analysis. The most common procedure was adrenalectomy (n = 177) and the second most common procedure was radical nephrectomy (n = 143). The procedures also included nephroureterectomy (n = 40), living donor nephrectomy (n = 40), pyeloplasty (n = 30), urachal remnant excision (n = 9), simple nephrectomy (n = 7), radical prostatectomy (n = 6) and others (n = 17). The access sites included umbilicus (n = 248, 53%) and other sites (n = 221, 47%). A transperitoneal approach was used in 385 cases (82%), and retroperitoneal approach in 84 cases (18%). The median operation time of all procedures was 198 min. Conversion to reduced port surgery, conventional laparoscopy, or open surgery was noted in 27 cases (5.8%), 12 cases (2.6%), and two cases (0.4%), respectively, with an overall conversion rate of 8.7%. Intraoperative complications occurred in 10 cases (2.1%). Post‐operative complications were noted in 29 cases (6.2%), including five major complications (1.1%). No mortality was recorded in this series.

Conclusions

Non‐robotic laparoendoscopic single‐site surgery is technically feasible and safe for various urologic diseases in Japan. Furthermore, urological laparoendoscopic single‐site surgery is a promising minimally invasive surgical option that is feasible for experienced urological surgeons in intermediate‐volume centers as well as high‐volume centers.
How Period Data Influence the Estimates of Recently Arrived Immigrants in the American Community Survey1
Authors: Grieco Elizabeth M. , Larsen Luke J. , Hogan Howard
Published: October 2016

The American Community Survey (ACS) includes a “year-of-entry” question that asks the foreign born when they came “to live in the United States.” Researchers have used these data to analyze “recent” immigrants — usually defined as arriving within the last five to 10 years — noting that the number of new arrivals is considerably lower than those who arrived in prior years and suggesting the size of the recent immigrant population may be underestimated. This paper shows the primary cause of the lower-than-expected estimates to be the ACS data collection methodology, which causes an inherent downward bias in survey-year arrivals.
Too scared to go sick? The management and the manifestations of workplace attendance in the food retail sector
Authors: Hadjisolomou Anastasios
Published: October 2016

This article is a response to Taylor et al’s (2010) call for further research regarding workplace attendance. It examines the new politics of absence management in the UK and Cyprus in food retail sector, identifying a dual approach in managing attendance across the two countries. The first approach suggested the penalization of absence, whilst the second focused on the prevention of absence through accommodation. The article argues that ‘coercion’ is not the sole vehicle to tackle high absence in food retailing rather it suggests the development of other practices to enhance cooperation to regular attendance. The research identifies significant differences regarding the formality of these processes between the two countries, and suggests the generation of a particular attendance culture within the organisations, one that is not merely a culture of fear, as Taylor et al (2010) suggest, but rather a culture that includes accommodation and cooperation.
Domain Reengineering of the [011]‐Poled PMN–0.35PT Single Crystals for Dielectric Bolometer Arrays
Authors: Xu Chao , Li Qiang , Yan Qingfeng , Zhang Yiling , Chu Xiangcheng
Published: October 2016

The domain configuration was reengineered with a modified poling procedure for the [011]‐poled single‐domain PMN–0.35PT crystals located at the morphotropic phase boundary. As a consequence, the dielectric constant εr at room temperature was significantly enhanced by more than 10 times to about 18 000, extremely higher than the reported (1 − x)Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3‐xPbTiO3 ferroelectric crystals. Besides, the decreasing rate of the dielectric constant (dεr/dT) was about 300/K with a temperature coefficient (α) of 1.7%/K, comparable to the BST materials for dielectric bolometer applications. The ferroelectric phase transition behavior was investigated to establish the poling procedure and a thermal hysteresis of about 25°C was indicated across the room temperature for the orthorhombic–tetragonal phase transition, which contributed to the revolution of the domain pattern.
Evidence of iteroparity in the widely distributed diadromous fish inanga Galaxias maculatus and potential implications for reproductive output
Authors: Stevens J. C. B. , Hickford M. J. H. , Schiel D. R.
Published: October 2016

Gaps in understanding variability among populations of inanga Galaxias maculatus in the timing of reproduction were addressed in southern New Zealand (NZ), where G. maculatus constitutes a declining fishery. Reproductive activity was delayed by 1 month on the west coast compared with the east coast and the west coast spawning season was prolonged into winter. The evidence for post‐spawning survival of some fish was unequivocal from histological studies. These older and larger fish contributed disproportionately to egg production. Estimates of fecundity were considerably lower than those previously calculated for NZ populations. The importance of quality habitats being available during critical life history periods are highlighted. It was apparent that some streams supported fish that were larger and in better condition and that this translated into greatly increased fecundity. Future research should focus on whether this is a legacy of these fish experiencing better pre‐settlement marine habitat as larvae, or higher quality instream habitat enhancing the growth and development of adults.
The long noncoding RNA‐ROR promotes the resistance of radiotherapy for human colorectal cancer cells by targeting the p53/miR‐145 pathway
Authors: Yang Pengxiang , Yang Yue , An Weiwei , Xu Jianyu , Zhang Gan , Jie Jing , Zhang Qingyuan
Published: October 2016

Background and Aim

Long intergenic noncoding RNAs (lincRNAs) have critical roles in elevating efficacy of anticancer therapy and tumor progression. Recent studies show that Regulator of Reprogramming (ROR) is aberrantly expressed in several types of cancer, including colorectal cancer (CRC). Radiotherapy is considered as a standard preoperative treatment. However, a considerable number of CRCs are resistant to radiotherapy. In this study, we evaluated the role of lincRNA‐ROR in radiotherapy for CRC and detected the underlying molecular mechanism.

Methods

Real‐time polymerase chain reaction was employed to quantify the expression level of lincRNA‐ROR in different CRC cell lines and tissue samples. Cell viability and apoptosis assays were used to confirm the radiotherapy‐mediated effects by lincRNA‐ROR altered expression. The direct impact of lincRNA‐ROR on the expression of p53/miR‐145 by loss‐of‐function and gain‐of‐function strategy was also analyzed. A xenograft mouse model was used to evaluate the role of linc‐ROR in CRC treatment.

Results

We discovered that lincRNA‐ROR was upregulated in CRC cell lines and tissue samples. We further showed that knockdown of lincRNA‐ROR enhanced the sensitivity to radiotherapy for CRC by inhibiting cell viability and promoting apoptosis. Activity of the p53/miR‐145 pathway may help explain the role of lincRNA‐ROR for stress‐induced regulation in CRC therapy. Combined specific knockdown of lincRNA‐ROR and radiotherapy treatment in xenograft model resulted in a significant reduction in the tumor growth.

Conclusion

LincRNA‐ROR decreases sensitivity to radiotherapy via the negative regulation of p53/miR‐145 and may represent a potential target for the treatment of CRC.
Delirium After Spine Surgery in Older Adults: Incidence, Risk Factors, and Outcomes
Authors: Brown Charles H. , LaFlam Andrew , Max Laura , Wyrobek Julie , Neufeld Karin J. , Kebaish Khaled M. , Cohen David B. , Walston Jeremy D. , Hogue Charles W. , Riley Lee H.
Published: October 2016

Objectives

To characterize the incidence, risk factors, and consequences of delirium in older adults undergoing spine surgery.

Design

Prospective observational study.

Setting

Academic medical center.

Participants

Individuals aged 70 and older undergoing spine surgery (N = 89).

Measurements

Postoperative delirium and delirium severity were assessed using validated methods, including the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM), CAM for the Intensive Care Unit, Delirium Rating Scale‐Revised‐98, and chart review. Hospital‐based outcomes were obtained from the medical record and hospital charges from data reported to the state.

Results

Thirty‐six participants (40.5%) developed delirium after spine surgery, with 17 (47.2%) having purely hypoactive features. Independent predictors of delirium were lower baseline cognition, higher average baseline pain, more intravenous fluid administered, and baseline antidepressant medication. In adjusted models, the development of delirium was independently associated with higher quintile of length of stay (odds ratio (OR) = 3.66, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.48–9.04, P = .005), higher quintile of hospital charges (OR = 3.49, 95% CI = 1.35–9.00, P = .01), and lower odds of discharge to home (OR = 0.22, 95% CI = 0.07–0.69, P = .009). Severity of delirium was associated with higher quintile of hospital charges and lower odds of discharge to home.

Conclusion

Delirium is common after spine surgery in older adults, and baseline pain is an independent risk factor. Delirium is associated with longer stay, higher charges, and lower odds of discharge to home. Thus, prevention of delirium after spine surgery may be an important quality improvement goal.
Diagnostic accuracy of des‐gamma‐carboxy prothrombin for hepatocellular carcinoma in a French cohort using the Lumipulse® G600 analyzer
Authors: Sultanik P. , Ginguay A. , Vandame J. , Popovici T. , Meritet J.‐F. , Cynober L. , Pol S. , Bories P.‐N.
Published: October 2016

The increasing incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Western countries requests reliable tumour markers for preclinical diagnosis. We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of des‐gamma‐carboxy prothrombin (DCP), in comparison with alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) in a French cohort using a new analyser. One hundred and sixty‐two patients with virus‐related cirrhosis (46 HCC patients and 116 controls) were recruited in this retrospective proof‐of‐concept study. DCP was measured on new Lumipulse® G600 analyzer and AFP on usual Cobas e602 analyzer in serum samples that were collected at the time of HCC diagnosis for HCC patients or during follow‐up for controls. DCP and AFP levels were higher in HCC patients. The area under receiver operating characteristic curve was larger for DCP than for AFP (0.89 vs 0.77, P=.03). At the cut‐off value of 128 mAU/mL, sensitivity and specificity for DCP were 74% and 92%. At the cut‐off value of 20 μg/L, sensitivity and specificity for AFP were 63% and 82%. NRI>0 for the association of “AFP+DCP” were 101%, P<.0001, and 23%, P=.03, compared to “AFP” or “DCP” alone, respectively. We conclude that DCP outperformed AFP for the detection of HCC.
Effects of Varying Levels of High‐Protein Distiller's Grains on Growth Performance of Channel Catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, and Post‐Extrusion Feed Pellet Characteristics
Authors: Tidwell J. H. , Coyle S. D. , Bright L. A. , Pires L. , Rosentrater K. A.
Published: October 2016

Channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, remains the USA's largest aquaculture industry. However, in recent years, high feed prices have negatively impacted profitability. Production of ethanol as a biofuel has increased dramatically. Companies have modified their processes to enhance ethanol yield and these modified processes also increase the crude protein content of the byproduct. The object of this study was to evaluate this high‐protein dried distiller's grains (HP‐DDG) for its suitability in catfish diets. A total of 25 full‐sibling channel catfish (7.1 ± 2.3 g) were randomly stocked into each of twelve 260‐L polyethylene tanks to achieve 25 fish per tank. The control diet was similar to a commercial formulation. Experimental diets contained 20, 40, or 40% HP‐DDG with added lysine (1% of total diet). There were three replicate tanks per diet. Fish were fed to apparent satiation twice daily for 9 wk. Average harvest weights for fish fed the 40% HP‐DDG diet without lysine supplementation (57.0 g) were significantly smaller than that for fish fed the control diet (77.7 g). Average harvest weights of fish fed 20% HP‐DDG (86.8 g) were significantly greater than that of fish fed either 40% HP‐DDG (57.0 g) or 40% HP‐DDG + lysine (73.7 g). There were no significant differences in feed conversion ratios or survivals among treatments, which overall averaged 1.1 and 99%, respectively. These data indicate that HP‐DDG appears to be a suitable ingredient in channel catfish diets up to at least 20% of the total formulation. Data also indicate that inclusion levels of at least 40% HP‐DDG are likely limiting in lysine.
Intravenous iron and erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents in haemodialysis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Roger Simon D , Tio Martin , Park Hyeong‐Cheon , Choong Hui Lin , Goh Bakleong , Cushway Timothy Robert , Stevens Vanessa , Macdougall Iain C
Published: October 2016

Aim

Higher dosages of erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents (ESAs) have been associated with adverse effects. Intravenous iron is used to optimize ESA response and reduces ESA doses in haemodialysis patients; this meta‐analysis evaluates the magnitude of this effect.

Methods

A literature search was performed using MEDLINE, Embase and the Cochrane Collaboration Central Register of Clinical Trials from inception until December 2014, to identify randomized controlled trials of intravenous iron and ESA, in patients undergoing haemodialysis for end‐stage kidney disease. Dosing of IV iron in concordance with the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes guidelines was considered optimal iron therapy.

Results

Of the 28 randomized controlled trials identified, seven met the criteria for inclusion in the meta‐analysis. Results of random‐effects meta‐analysis show a statistically significant weighted mean (95% CI) difference of −1733 [−3073, −392] units/week in ESA dose for optimal iron versus suboptimal iron. The weighted average change in ESA dose was a reduction of 23% (range −7% to −55%) attributable to appropriate dosing of intravenous iron. A comparison of intravenous iron versus oral iron/no iron (five trials) showed a greater reduction in ESA dose, although this did not reach statistical significance (weighted mean difference, 95% CI: −2,433 [−5183, 318] units/week). The weighted average change in ESA dose across the five trials was a reduction of 31% (range −8% to −55%).

Conclusion

Significant reductions in ESA dosing may be achieved with optimal intravenous iron usage in the haemodialysis population, and suboptimal iron use may require higher ESA dosing to manage anaemia.
Angioedema After Squaric Acid Treatment in a 6‐Year‐Old Girl
Authors: Chen Chen (Amy) , Carlberg Valerie , Kroshinsky Daniela
Published: October 2016

Alopecia areata (AA) involves the immune‐related destruction of hair follicles, resulting in patches of complete hair loss, most often on the scalp. The topical sensitizer squaric acid dibutylester (SADBE) is a popular treatment option given its low side‐effect profile, hair regrowth potential, and lack of cross‐reactivity with other chemicals. We describe a unique case of a 6‐year‐old girl who developed angioedema after SADBE treatment for AA.
Lymphocyte‐depleting induction therapy lowers the risk of acute rejection in African American pediatric kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Crowson Cole N. , Reed Rhiannon D. , Shelton Brittany A. , MacLennan Paul A. , Locke Jayme E.
Published: October 2016

The use of lymphocyte‐depleting induction immunosuppression has been associated with a reduction in risk of AR after KT among adult recipients, particularly among high‐risk subgroups such as AAs. However, data on induction regimen and AR risk are lacking among pediatric KT recipients. We examined outcomes among 7884 first‐time pediatric KT recipients using SRTR data (2000‐2014). Characteristics were compared across race using Wilcoxon rank‐sum tests for continuous and chi‐square tests for categorical variables. Risk of AR was estimated using modified Poisson regression, stratified by recipient race, adjusting for recipient age, gender, BMI, primary diagnosis, number of HLA mismatches, maintenance immunosuppression, and donor type. Risk of AR within 1 year was lower in AA recipients receiving lymphocyte‐depleting induction (ATG or alemtuzumab; RR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.52‐0.83 P < .001) compared to AA recipients receiving anti‐IL‐2 receptor antibody induction. This difference was not seen in non‐AA recipients receiving lymphocyte‐depleting induction (RR, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.81‐1.06, P = .26) compared to IL‐2 induction. These findings support a role for lymphocyte‐depleting induction agents in AA pediatric patients undergoing KT and continued use of IL‐2 inhibitor induction in non‐AA pediatric KT recipients.
Stable isotopic and elemental characteristics of recent tufa from a karstic Krka River (south‐east Slovenia): useful environmental proxies?
Authors: Zavadlav Saša , Rožič Boštjan , Dolenec Matej , Lojen Sonja
Published: October 2016

Tufa samples from 16 consecutive barrages along a 13 km section of the groundwater‐fed Krka River (Slovenia) were analysed for their petrographical, mineralogical, elemental and stable carbon (δ13C) and oxygen (δ18O) isotope composition, to establish their relation to current climatic and hydrological conditions. Waters constantly oversaturated with calcite and the steep morphology of the Krka riverbed stimulate rapid CO2 degassing and subsequent tufa precipitation. The carbon isotope fractionation (Δ13C) between dissolved inorganic carbon and tufa in the Krka River evolves towards isotopic equilibrium being controlled by continuous CO2 degassing and tufa precipitation rate downstream. The Δ13C increased from 1·9 to 2·5‰ (VPDB); however, since tufa precipitation rates remain similar downstream, the major controlling factor of carbon isotope exchange is most probably related to the continuous 12CO2 degassing downstream leaving the carbon pool enriched in 13C. In the case of oxygen, the isotope fractionation (Δ18O) was found to be from 1·0 to 2·3‰ (VSMOW) smaller than reported in the literature. The observed discrepancies are due to different precipitation rates of calcite deposits because Krka tufas on cascades grow relatively faster compared to slowly precipitated calcite deposits in cave or stream pools. Due to non‐equilibrium oxygen isotope exchange between Krka tufa and water, the δ18O proxy showed from 1·2 to 8·2°C higher calculated water temperatures compared to measured water temperatures, demonstrating that δ18O proxy‐based temperature equations are not reliable for water temperature calculations of fast‐growing tufa on cascades. Because Mg is bound to the terrigenous dolomite fraction in the Krka tufa samples, the Mg/Ca was also found to be an unreliable temperature proxy yielding over up to 20°C higher calculated water temperatures.
Asymptomatic cryptococcal antigen prevalence detected by lateral flow assay in hospitalised HIV‐infected patients in São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Vidal José E. , Toniolo Carolina , Paulino Adriana , Colombo Arnaldo , dos Anjos Martins Marilena , da Silva Meira Cristina , Pereira‐Chioccola Vera Lucia , Figueiredo‐Mello Claudia , Barros Tiago , Duarte Jequelie , Fonseca Fernanda , Alves Cunha Mirella , Mendes Clara , Ribero Taiana , dos Santos Lazera Marcia , Rajasingham Radha , Boulware David R.
Published: October 2016

Objective

To determine the prevalence of asymptomatic cryptococcal antigen (CRAG) using lateral flow assay (LFA) in hospitalised HIV‐infected patients with CD4 counts <200 cells/μl.

Methods

Hospitalised HIV‐infected patients were prospectively recruited at Instituto de Infectologia Emilio Ribas, a tertiary referral hospital to HIV‐infected patients serving the São Paulo State, Brazil. All patients were >18 years old without prior cryptococcal meningitis, without clinical suspicion of cryptococcal meningitis, regardless of antiretroviral (ART) status, and with CD4 counts <200 cells/μl. Serum CRAG was tested by LFA in all patients, and whole blood CRAG was tested by LFA in positive cases.

Results

We enrolled 163 participants of whom 61% were men. The duration of HIV diagnosis was a median of 8 (range, 1–29) years. 26% were antiretroviral (ART)‐naïve, and 74% were ART‐experienced. The median CD4 cell count was 25 (range, 1–192) cells/μl. Five patients (3.1%; 95%CI, 1.0–7.0%) were asymptomatic CRAG‐positive. Positive results cases were cross‐verified by performing LFA in whole blood.

Conclusions

3.1% of HIV‐infected inpatients with CD4 <200 cells/μl without symptomatic meningitis had cryptococcal antigenemia in São Paulo, suggesting that routine CRAG screening may be beneficial in similar settings in South America. Our study reveals another targeted population for CRAG screening: hospitalised HIV‐infected patients with CD4 <200 cells/μl, regardless of ART status. Whole blood CRAG LFA screening seems to be a simple strategy to prevention of symptomatic meningitis.
Functional characterization of UDP‐rhamnose‐dependent rhamnosyltransferase involved in anthocyanin modification, a key enzyme determining blue coloration in Lobelia erinus
Authors: Hsu Yang‐Hsin , Tagami Takayoshi , Matsunaga Kana , Okuyama Masayuki , Suzuki Takashi , Noda Naonobu , Suzuki Masahiko , Shimura Hanako
Published: October 2016

Because structural modifications of flavonoids are closely related to their properties, such as stability, solubility, flavor and coloration, characterizing the enzymes that catalyze the modification reactions can be useful for engineering agriculturally beneficial traits of flavonoids. In this work, we examined the enzymes involved in the modification pathway of highly glycosylated and acylated anthocyanins that accumulate in Lobelia erinus. Cultivar Aqua Blue (AB) of L. erinus is blue‐flowered and accumulates delphinidin 3‐O‐p‐coumaroylrutinoside‐5‐O‐malonylglucoside‐3′5′‐O‐dihydroxycinnamoylglucoside (lobelinins) in its petals. Cultivar Aqua Lavender (AL) is mauve‐flowered, and LC‐MS analyses showed that AL accumulated delphinidin 3‐O‐glucoside (Dp3G), which was not further modified toward lobelinins. A crude protein assay showed that modification processes of lobelinin were carried out in a specific order, and there was no difference between AB and AL in modification reactions after rhamnosylation of Dp3G, indicating that the lack of highly modified anthocyanins in AL resulted from a single mutation of rhamnosyltransferase catalyzing the rhamnosylation of Dp3G. We cloned rhamnosyltransferase genes (RTs) from AB and confirmed their UDP‐rhamnose‐dependent rhamnosyltransferase activities on Dp3G using recombinant proteins. In contrast, the RT gene in AL had a 5‐bp nucleotide deletion, resulting in a truncated polypeptide without the plant secondary product glycosyltransferase box. In a complementation test, AL that was transformed with the RT gene from AB produced blue flowers. These results suggest that rhamnosylation is an essential process for lobelinin synthesis, and thus the expression of RT has a great impact on the flower color and is necessary for the blue color of Lobelia flowers.