bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinicopathologic Implications of Eukaryotic Initiation Factor 3f and Her‐2/neu Expression in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Cheng Yu , Zhou Jin , Li Honglun
Published: February 2015

Background:

To detect the expression of eIF3f and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (Her‐2)/neu in gastric cancer (GC), correlation with their clinicopathological parameters and the relationship of eIF3f and Her‐2/neu in the occurrence and development of GC.

Methods:

A total of 195 gastrectomy specimens with stage I to III were examined for eIF3f expression by immunohistochemistry and for Her‐2/neu expression by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with the median follow‐up period of 38 months.

Results:

The positive expression rate of eIF3f in GC and adjacent noncancerous tissue were 33.8% and 59.5%, respectively. eIF3f levels were linked to more advanced tumor stages and likelihood of recurrence (all p < 0.05). The Kaplan–Meier survival curves indicated that decreased expression of eIF3f could serve as a prognosis marker for poor outcome of GC patients (p = 0.04). 15.9% of GC specimens were positive for Her‐2/neu, but whose expression was of no correlation with patients’ survival. Patients who were positive for Her‐2/neu also had high eIF3f expression levels (p = 0.0295).

Conclusion:

Results suggest that eIF3f may play an important role in recurrence, thus representing a promising predictive marker for the prognosis of GC. But Her‐2/neu has no relationship with the prognosis of GC. The clinical significance of eIF3f and Her‐2/neu remains to be further investigated.
WT1 immunoenzyme staining using SurePath™ processed urine cytology helps to detect kidney disease
Authors: Ohsaki H. , Sofue T. , Kawakami K. , Nishijima Y. , Hara T. , Matsunaga T. , Kushida Y. , Haba R. , Shigematsu Y. , Irino S. , Norimatsu Y.
Published: February 2015

Objectives

Damage and detachment of podocytes and loss into the urine have been implicated in the progression of kidney diseases. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential role of urine cytology based on SurePath™ combined with immunoenzyme staining using Wilms’ tumour 1 (WT1) antibody as a podocyte marker in the discrimination of normality and non‐renal urinary tract disease from kidney disease.

Methods

Sixty‐six patients with kidney disease, 45 patients with lower urinary tract disease and 30 healthy volunteers were examined. Urine cytology slides were prepared using the SurePath method and immunoenzyme stained with WT1 antibody, and the number of WT1‐positive cells was counted.

Results

In kidney disease, WT1‐positive cells were found in 33 (50%) of 66 samples. No WT1‐positive cells were found in 45 patients with lower urinary tract disease or in 30 healthy volunteers. The positive rates for WT1 varied with disease type, but not significantly: immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy, (14/23); membranous glomerulonephritis, (4/10); Henoch–Schönlein purpura nephritis, (3/5); diabetic glomerulopathy, (5/5); minor glomerular abnormality/minimal change nephrotic syndrome (0/4).

Conclusions

The results suggest that WT1 immunoenzyme staining of urine cytology can be used to detect some types of kidney disease.
Apical Left Ventricular Hypertrophy and Mid‐Ventricular Obstruction in Fabry Disease
Authors: Cianciulli Tomás F. , Saccheri María C. , Fernández Segundo P. , Fernández Cinthia C. , Rozenfeld Paula A. , Kisinovsky Isaac
Published: February 2015

We report the case of a rare cardiac presentation of Fabry disease. Although concentric left ventricular hypertrophy is a major cardiac finding in Fabry disease, there is no case report of dynamic obstruction at mid‐left ventricular level. We describe a 59‐year‐old‐woman suffering from a severe form of Fabry disease, mimicking an apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with mid‐ventricular obstruction. Differentiation of Fabry disease from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is crucial given the therapeutic and prognostic differences. Fabry disease should always be suspected in an adult, independently of the pattern of left ventricular hypertrophy.
Feasibility and Diagnostic Potential of Pulmonary Transit Time Measurement by Contrast Echocardiography: A Pilot Study
Authors: Brittain Evan L. , Doss Laura N. , Saliba Linda , Irani Waleed , Byrd Benjamin F. , Monahan Ken
Published: February 2015

Aims

Pulmonary transit time (PTT; the time for ultrasound contrast to travel from the right ventricle [RV] to the left atrium) may provide a single metric that reports on cardiopulmonary function while overcoming some of the challenges of standard echocardiographic measures. We conducted a pilot study to test the feasibility and reproducibility of echocardiographically derived PTT and to determine its association with established measures of cardiopulmonary function.

Methods and Results

A total of 39 patients receiving clinically indicated ultrasound contrast were prospectively enrolled. PTT was measured in the apical four‐chamber view using commercially available software. Reproducibility and inter‐observer agreement were assessed in 9 patients. PTT was correlated with established measures of left ventricular systolic and diastolic function, RV function, and pulmonary vascular status. PTT could be measured in 89% (33/37) of patients without a contraindication to ultrasound contrast; all measurements from the last 20 patients were interpretable and obtained independently by a sonographer. Reproducibility and inter‐observer agreement were excellent. PTT correlated well with standard echocardiographic indicators of cardiac status. A PTT >4.5 seconds accurately identified all but 1 patient with cardiopulmonary dysfunction.

Conclusions

This pilot study demonstrates that measurement of PTT using ultrasound contrast is highly reproducible, accurately reflects global cardiopulmonary function across a range of cardiopulmonary disease, and can be readily obtained by an independent sonographer. Further studies are needed to determine whether PTT has incremental value in diagnosis and prognosis compared to conventional echocardiographic parameters.
Prognostic Value of Pericardial Effusion on Serial Echocardiograms in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Batal Omar , Dardari Zeina , Costabile Chelcie , Gorcsan John , Arena Vincent C. , Mathier Michael A.
Published: February 2015

Background

Pericardial effusion in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is an indicator of right heart failure and poor prognosis; its significance on serial transthoracic echocardiograms (TTE) is not clear.

Methods

Baseline and follow‐up TTE (1.0 ± 0.5 years), clinical parameters, and outcomes were studied (N = 200) in consecutive patients with PAH who underwent TTE at our center between October 1999 and November 2007. Study baseline TTE was 2.8 ± 4.0 years from initial PAH diagnosis.

Results

Over median follow‐up of 3.6 ± 2.6 years from baseline TTE, 106 patients (53%) died. Pericardial effusion was present in 20% at baseline, and at any time during the study in 29%. Patients with any pericardial effusion during follow‐up were more likely to have underlying connective tissue disease. They also had significantly higher mean right atrial pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance, had lower cardiac output by invasive hemodynamic studies, had higher serum creatinine, and were more likely to be treated with prostanoids. Patients were also significantly likely to have more echocardiographic right atrial dilation and right ventricular dilation and dysfunction, and worse tricuspid regurgitation with higher peak velocity. During follow‐up, there was significantly increased use of prostanoids (58% vs. 28%) and combination therapy (8% vs. 2%) compared to baseline. Persistence of pericardial effusion on both baseline and follow‐up TTE was associated with worse outcome, and an independent predictor of survival after adjusting for age, creatinine, functional class, and hemodynamics (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Persistence of pericardial effusion in PAH despite vasoactive therapy predicts worse outcomes; absence or resolution of pericardial effusion with therapy suggests better prognosis.
Behaviour‐driven micro‐scale niche differentiation in carabid beetles
Authors: Kamenova S. , Tougeron K. , Cateine M. , Marie A. , Plantegenest M.
Published: February 2015

Carabid beetles form rich and abundant communities in arable landscapes. Their generalist feeding behaviour and similar environmental requirements raise questions about the mechanisms allowing the coexistence of such species‐rich assemblages. We hypothesized that subtle niche partitioning comes into play on spatial, temporal, or trophic basis. To test this, we performed experiments and made observations on the behaviour of two sympatric carabid species of similar size and life cycle, Bembidion quadrimaculatum L. and Phyla obtusa Audinet‐Serville (both Coleoptera: Carabidae: Bembidiini). We compared plant climbing behaviour, daily activity patterns, and trophic preferences between the two carabid species under laboratory conditions. Whereas no clear difference in trophic preference was observed, our results suggest temporal niche differentiation at the nychthemeron scale (a period of 24 consecutive hours), with one of the species being more diurnal and the other more nocturnal, and spatial differentiation in their habitat use at the plant stratum scale. Intra‐specific variation suggests that micro‐scale spatio‐temporal niche differentiation could be mediated by behavioural plasticity in these two carabid species. We speculate that such behavioural plasticity may provide carabid beetles with a high adaptive potential in intensively managed agricultural areas.
Entometabolomics: applications of modern analytical techniques to insect studies
Authors: Snart Charles J.P. , Hardy Ian C.W. , Barrett David A.
Published: February 2015

Metabolomic analyses can reveal associations between an organism's metabolome and further aspects of its phenotypic state, an attractive prospect for many life‐sciences researchers. The metabolomic approach has been employed in some, but not many, insect study systems, starting in 1990 with the evaluation of the metabolic effects of parasitism on moth larvae. Metabolomics has now been applied to a variety of aspects of insect biology, including behaviour, infection, temperature stress responses, CO2 sedation, and bacteria–insect symbiosis. From a technical and reporting standpoint, these studies have adopted a range of approaches utilising established experimental methodologies. Here, we review current literature and evaluate the metabolomic approaches typically utilised by entomologists. We suggest that improvements can be made in several areas, including sampling procedures, the reduction in sampling and equipment variation, the use of sample extracts, statistical analyses, confirmation, and metabolite identification. Overall, it is clear that metabolomics can identify correlations between phenotypic states and underlying cellular metabolism that previous, more targeted, approaches are incapable of measuring. The unique combination of untargeted global analyses with high‐resolution quantitative analyses results in a tool with great potential for future entomological investigations.
Analysis of the population genetic structure of Rhynchophorus ferrugineus in Fujian, China, revealed by microsatellite loci and mitochondrial COI sequences
Authors: Wang Gui‐Hua , Zhang Xiang , Hou You‐Ming , Tang Bao‐Zhen
Published: February 2015

The red palm weevil (RPW), Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Rhynchophorinae), which is one of the most serious pests of palm plants, was first found in China in the city of Wenchang (Hainan Province) in the 1990s and has now expanded to South China, including Fujian Province. In this paper, we provide a genetic characterization and determine the genetic relationships among geographic populations of RPW in Fujian using microsatellite loci and cytochrome oxidase subunit Ι (COI) sequences. The results indicate a low‐level microsatellite diversity of RPW. Four genetic clusters of RPW were found in Fujian. No correlation was detected between the genetic and geographical distances in the microsatellite data. The mitochondrial COI sequence analyses revealed a high level of diversity in the Fujian populations. Eleven haplotypes were detected, and these included eight haplotypes that were different from those found earlier in Mediterranean, Middle East, Japanese, and other populations. Significant genetic variations were observed mainly within populations, both with microsatellites and with COI sequences. Low gene flow among the populations was observed. Our results indicate that the nuclear allelic diversity was low compared with the microsatellite results from populations in Wardan and Oman, but the mitochondrial diversity was not reduced to a similar extent. The low level of the genetic structure of RPW is related to the limited flight capacity of RPW and human‐aided dispersal rather than to the geographic distance.
A screen of a large Czech cohort of oligodontia patients implicates a novel mutation in the PAX9 gene
Authors: Šerý Omar , Bonczek Ondřej , Hloušková Alena , Černochová Pavlína , Vaněk Jiří , Míšek Ivan , Krejčí Přemysl , Izakovičová Hollá Lydie
Published: February 2015

Tooth agenesis is one of the most common developmental anomalies in humans. To date, many mutations involving paired box 9 (PAX9), msh homeobox 1 (MSX1), and axin 2 (AXIN2) genes have been identified. The aim of the present study was to perform screening for mutations and/or polymorphisms using the capillary sequencing method in the critical regions of PAX9 and MSX1 genes in a group of 270 individuals with tooth agenesis and in 30 healthy subjects of Czech origin. This screening revealed a previously unknown heterozygous g.9527G>T mutation in the PAX9 gene in monozygotic twins with oligodontia and three additional affected family members. The same variant was not found in healthy relatives. This mutation is located in intron 2, in the region recognized as the splice site between exon 2 and intron 2. We hypothesize that the error in pre‐mRNA splicing may lead to lower expression of PAX9 protein and could have contributed to the development of tooth agenesis in the affected subjects.
Correlated genetic effects on reproduction define a domestication syndrome in a forest tree
Authors: Santos‐del‐Blanco Luis , Alía Ricardo , González‐Martínez Santiago C. , Sampedro Luis , Lario Francisco , Climent José
Published: February 2015

Compared to natural selection, domestication implies a dramatic change in traits linked to fitness. A number of traits conferring fitness in the wild might be detrimental under domestication, and domesticated species typically differ from their ancestors in a set of traits known as the domestication syndrome. Specifically, trade‐offs between growth and reproduction are well established across the tree of life. According to allocation theory, selection for growth rate is expected to indirectly alter life‐history reproductive traits, diverting resources from reproduction to growth. Here we tested this hypothesis by examining the genetic change and correlated responses of reproductive traits as a result of selection for timber yield in the tree Pinus pinaster. Phenotypic selection was carried out in a natural population, and progenies from selected trees were compared with those of control trees in a common garden experiment. According to expectations, we detected a genetic change in important life‐history traits due to selection. Specifically, threshold sizes for reproduction were much higher and reproductive investment relative to size significantly lower in the selected progenies just after a single artificial selection event. Our study helps to define the domestication syndrome in exploited forest trees and shows that changes affecting developmental pathways are relevant in domestication processes of long‐lived plants.
Laryngeal advancement surgery improves swallowing function in a reversible equine dysphagia model
Authors: Virgin J. E. , Holcombe S. J. , Caron J. P. , Cheetham J. , Kurtz K. A. , Roessner H. A. , Ducharme N. G. , Hauptman J. G. , Nelson N. C.
Published: February 2015

Reasons for performing study

Pharyngeal dysphagia is a debilitating, sometimes fatal condition in horses, with multiple aetiologies. The pathophysiology is complex and not fully understood. Treatment is largely supportive. Laryngeal advancement surgery may diminish symptoms of dysphagia and improve swallowing in affected horses.

Objectives

1) to induce reversible moderate and marked pharyngeal dysphagia by regional anaesthesia of branches of the glossopharyngeal (IX), vagus (X) and hypoglossal (XII) nerves; 2) to characterise the dysphagia produced by each model; and 3) to determine whether laryngeal advancement surgery improves swallowing in these models.

Study design

Experimental design using 6 adult horses.

Methods

Two dysphagia models were produced by blockingIX, the pharyngeal branch ofXandXIIunilaterally (moderate model) and only the pharyngeal branch ofXbilaterally (marked model) within the guttural pouches. Both models were performed on each horse before and after surgery in order to assess the effectiveness of the surgical procedure as a potential treatment for pharyngeal dysphagia. Dysphagia was scored by partly blinded observers on a scale of 0–12 based on observations of eating (nonblinded), endoscopic examinations and fluoroscopic swallowing (blinded), where 0 = normal swallow and 12 = severe dysphagia with tracheal aspiration. Data were analysed by 3‐factorANOVA, with significance taken as P<0.05.

Results

Dysphagia models were reversible, and horses swallowed normally within 3 h of model induction. The marked dysphagia model impaired movement of feed from the base of the tongue to the oesophagus and caused severe airway contamination. The average dysphagia score (mean ± s.d.) for the marked dysphagia model was 10.6 ± 1.1 before surgery and 6.1 ± 4.3 after surgery (P = 0.007). Laryngeal advancement surgery did not significantly improve the dysphagia scores in the moderate model (P = 0.5).

Conclusions

Laryngeal advancement surgery may improve swallowing and reduce aspiration in horses affected with diseases that cause pharyngeal dysphagia.
Knowledge sourcing and knowledge reuse in the virtual product prototyping: an exploratory study in a large automotive supplier of R&D
Authors: Filieri Raffaele , Alguezaui Salma
Published: February 2015

The capacity of organizations to share knowledge is seen as a source of competitive advantage in many industries. Knowledge sourcing and knowledge reuse have been indicated as important enablers of organizational efficiency and innovation performance. Although firms may own valuable knowledge, the presence of barriers to knowledge sourcing and reuse may hinder the exploitation of such knowledge. The present study explores the barriers to knowledge sourcing and reuse from electronic repository and their implications within the virtual product prototyping stage of new products development. The study is based on 24 interviews with research and development (R&D) employees of a large supplier of R&D in the automotive sector. Results demonstrate that the poor operational quality of a repository hinders knowledge sourcing; thereby, people prefer sourcing knowledge from other colleagues rather than from the repository. Moreover, the inefficiencies in knowledge sourcing from a repository, the poor quality of the codified knowledge and its complexity affect the reuse of existing knowledge. This study reveals that knowledge sourcing and knowledge reuse can affect the time performance in the virtual product prototype development process.
Patients' expectations about total knee arthroplasty outcomes
Authors: de Achaval Sofia , Kallen Michael A. , Amick Benjamin , Landon Glenn , Siff Sherwin , Edelstein David , Zhang Hong , Suarez‐Almazor Maria E.
Published: February 2015

Objective

The aim of this study was to ascertain Patients' pre‐operative expectations of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) recovery.

Methods

Two hundred and thirty‐six patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) who underwent TKA completed self‐administered questionnaires before their surgery. Patients' expectations of time to functional recovery were measured using an ordinal time–response scale to indicate expected time to recovery for each of 10 functional activities. Expected time to recovery was dichotomized into short‐ and long‐term expectations for recovery of each activity using median responses. Knee pain and function were ascertained using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Other measures included the SF‐36, the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS) and the Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey (MOS‐SSS). Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify pre‐operative characteristics associated with short‐ vs. long‐term expectations.

Results

Sixty‐five percent of the patients were females and 70% Whites; mean age was 65 years. Patients were optimistic about their time to functional recovery: over 65% of patients expected functional recovery within 3 months. Over 80% of the patients expected to perform 8 of the 10 activities within 3 months. Patients who expected to be able to perform the functional activities in <6 weeks were more likely to be younger, male, and have lower self‐reported pain and better general health before surgery compared to those who expected to be able to perform the activities 3 months post‐surgery or later.

Conclusion

Pre‐operative patient characteristics may be important to evaluate when considering individual Patients' expectations of post‐operative outcomes.
Service user involvement in mental health care: an evolutionary concept analysis
Authors: Millar Samantha L. , Chambers Mary , Giles Melanie
Published: February 2015

Background

The concept of service user involvement is an evolving concept in the mental health‐care literature.

Objective

This study sought to explore and analyse the concept of service user involvement as used in within the field of mental health care.

Methodological approach

An evolutionary concept analysis was conducted using a literature‐based sample extracted from an electronic database search. One hundred and thirty‐four papers met the inclusion criteria and were analysed to discover key attributes, antecedents and consequences of service user involvement and to produce a definition of the concept.

Findings

Five key attributes of service user involvement within the context of mental health care were identified: a person‐centred approach, informed decision making, advocacy, obtaining service user views and feedback and working in partnership.

Discussion and conclusions

Clarity of the attributes and definition of the concept of service user involvement aims to promote understanding of the concept among key stakeholders including mental health professionals, service users and community and voluntary organizations. The findings of the research have utility in the areas of theory and policy development, research on service user involvement in mental health care and service user involvement in mental health practice. Directions for further research regarding the concept are identified.
Effects of Pseudomonas chlororaphis and gaseous chlorine dioxide on the survival of Salmonella enterica on tomatoes
Authors: Olanya Ocen Modesto , Annous Bassam A. , Taylor Janysha
Published: February 2015

Control of Salmonella enterica on tomatoes is important for food safety. The aim of this research was to evaluate the survival of Salmonella enterica serovars Montevideo (SM) and Typhimurium (ST) on tomatoes exposed to gaseous chlorine dioxide and Pseudomonas chlororaphis (Pc). Pc was applied to stem scars of tomatoes prior to inoculations with SM and ST. Tomatoes were treated with gaseous ClO2 at 0.4 mg L−1 for 2 and 4 h (90% R.H. 13 °C), respectively. At 4 h of ClO2 treatment, SM and ST populations were reduced to 0.82 and <0.30 log CFU g−1, respectively. Tomatoes treated with SM and ST had 5.42 and 5.37 log CFU g−1 of Salmonella. Tomatoes treated with Pc + Salmonella count was 2.59 (treated) and 5.83 log CFU g−1 (control). Salmonella survival was similar at 2 and 4 h of ClO2 treatment. Application of ClO2 and Pc may reduce contamination of tomatoes by Salmonella serovars.
Kinetic and thermodynamic stability of paprika nanoemulsions
Authors: Pascual‐Pineda Luz A. , Flores‐Andrade Enrique , Jiménez‐Fernández Maribel , Beristain Cesar I.
Published: February 2015

In this study, oil‐in‐water nanoemulsions of paprika oleoresin were prepared by high‐power ultrasound. The influence of hydrophilic lipophilic balance (HLB) value and surfactant concentration on the physical and chemical stability and kinetic and thermodynamic properties were investigated. Kinetic data for thermal degradation of red and yellow fractions of carotenoids in nanoemulsions at 25, 35 and 45 °C of storage were used for estimating entropy and enthalpy of activation using the transition state theory. The mean diameters (Z‐average) of the dispersed particles containing paprika ranged from 48 to 250 nm. The carotenoids in nanoemulsions stability increased as the particle size and HLB value decreased. According to the enthalpy–entropy compensation, the carotenoid red fraction was enthalpy driven, whereas the carotenoid yellow fraction was entropy controlled. These results provide useful information for the design of delivery systems to encapsulate and stabilise lipophilic molecules.
Prediction of Cadmium content in brown rice using near‐infrared spectroscopy and regression modelling techniques
Authors: Zhu Xiangrong , Li Gaoyang , Shan Yang
Published: February 2015

The feasibility of prediction of cadmium (Cd) content in brown rice was investigated by near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and chemometrics techniques. Spectral pretreatment methods were discussed in detail. Synergy interval partial least squares (siPLS) algorithm was used to select the efficient combinations of spectral subintervals and wavenumbers during constructing the quantitative calibration model. The performance of the final model was evaluated by the use of root mean square error of cross‐validation (RMSECV), root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) and correlation coefficients for calibration set and prediction set (Rc and Rp), respectively. The results showed that the optimum siPLS model was achieved when two spectral subinterval and fifty‐two variables were selected. The predicted result of the best model obtained was as follows: RMSECV = 0.232, Rc = 0.930, RMSEP = 0.250 and Rp = 0.915. Compared with PLS and interval PLS models, siPLS model was slightly better than those methods. These results indicate that it is feasible to predict and screen Cd content in brown rice using NIRS.
Obvious emphysema on computed tomography during an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease predicts a poor prognosis
Authors: Cheng T. , Wan H. Y. , Cheng Q. J. , Guo Y. , Qian Y. R. , Fan L. , Feng Y. , Song Y. Y. , Zhou M. , Li Q. Y. , Shi G. C. , Huang S. G.
Published: February 2015

Background

Emphysematous change on computed tomography (CT) during the stable phase of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is reported to correlate with COPD prognosis. Acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD) is associated with a high risk of mortality and a poor prognosis.

Aims

This study aims to study the relationship between prognosis and emphysematous changes on CT during an AECOPD.

Methods

Histories were recorded, and CT acquired for 106 patients who visited the emergency department for an AECOPD. Emphysematous change was quantified by measuring the percentage of low‐attenuation areas (LAA%) in the entire lung on CT images with a threshold of –950 Hounsfield units. Other factors that could influence AECOPD prognosis were also recorded on admission and analysed. At follow ups conducted in 1 year, patient survival, the modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) Dyspnoea Scale, and performance status (PS) were evaluated, and a COPD Assessment Test (CAT) was completed.

Results

The 1‐year follow up was completed by 103 of 106 patients. The median LAA% was significantly higher in non‐survivors (11%, n = 16) than in survivors (5.69%, n = 87) (P = 0.006) at the 1‐year follow up. LAA% was significantly correlated with mMRC grade (r = 0.285, P = 0.008), PS (r = 0.397, P < 0.001) and CAT score (r = 0.27, P = 0.017) at the 3‐month follow up, and with mMRC grade (r = 0.405, P < 0.001) and PS (r = 0.377, P < 0.001) at the 1‐year follow up. LAA% > 7.5% was a significant predictor of 1‐year mortality, higher mMRC and PS at the 3‐month and 1‐year follow ups, after adjustment for other prognostic predictors.

Conclusion

Obvious emphysematous changes on CT (LAA% > 7.5%) during an AECOPD predicts a poor prognosis independent of other known indicators.
Crescentic glomerulonephritis: data from the Spanish Glomerulonephritis Registry
Authors: Quiroga B. , Vega A. , Rivera F. , López‐Gómez J. M. ,   the Spanish Registry of Glomerulonephritis
Published: February 2015

Background

Crescentic glomerulonephritis (CGN) is a histological finding that implies rapid deterioration of renal function and can be related to different diseases, such as type 1 or anti‐glomerular basement membrane antibody (Goodpasture) disease, type 2 or immune complex CGN and type 3 or pauci‐immune disease.

Aim

The present study describes CGN and its characteristics based on the data from the Spanish Glomerulonephritis Registry.

Methods

An analysis was made of all native renal biopsies obtained from patients during 1994–2013 and classified as CGN. A patient epidemiological and clinical data questionnaire was completed by the 120 centres involved.

Results

A total of 21 774 biopsies was performed, of which 2089 (8.1%) corresponded to CGN (211 type 1, 177 type 2 and 1701 type 3). Renal function was poorer in type 1 compared with types 2 and 3, and proteinuria was higher in type 2 compared to types 1 and 3. Patients diagnosed with CGN type 3 were older than those with types 1 and 2, but less hypertensive than the type 2 patients. No differences in the urine test findings were found between types 1 and 2. Microhaematuria was the most frequent feature in general, as well as in type 3 compared with types 1 and 2. The main indication for biopsy was acute renal injury. Age was the only difference between type 1 patients with and without alveolar haemorrhage (53 [33–67] vs 64 [46–73], P = 0.008).

Conclusion

Although classified as the same entity, the different types of CGN have different features that must be taken into account.
Efficacy of non‐invasive mechanical ventilation in the general ward in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease admitted for hypercapnic acute respiratory failure and pH < 7.35: a feasibility pilot study
Authors: Fiorino S. , Bacchi‐Reggiani L. , Detotto E. , Battilana M. , Borghi E. , Denitto C. , Dickmans C. , Facchini B. , Moretti R. , Parini S. , Testi M. , Zamboni A. , Cuppini A. , Pisani L. , Nava S.
Published: February 2015

Aim

To date non‐invasive (NIV) mechanical ventilation use is not recommended in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients with acute respiratory failure (ARF) and pH < 7.30 outside a ‘protected environment’. We assessed NIV efficacy and feasibility in improving arterial blood gases (ABG) and in‐hospital outcome in patients with ARF and severe respiratory acidosis (RA) admitted to an experienced rural medical ward.

Methods

This paper is a prospective pilot cohort study conducted in the General Medicine Ward of Budrio's District Hospital. Two hundred and seventy‐two patients with ARF were admitted to our Department, 112, meeting predefined inclusion criteria (pH < 7.35, PaCO2 > 45 mmHg). Patients were divided according to the severity of acidosis into: group A (pH < 7.26), group B (7.26 ≤ pH < 7.30) and group C (7.30 ≤ pH < 7.35). ABG were assessed at admission, at 2–6 h, 24 h, 48 h and at discharge.

Results

Group A included 55 patients (24 men, mean age: 80.8 ± 8.3 years), group B 31 (12 men, mean age: 80.3 ± 9.4 years) and group C 26 (15 men, mean age: 78.6 ± 9.9 years). ABG improved within the first hours in 92/112 (82%) patients, who were all successfully discharged. Eighteen per cent (20/112) of the patients died during the hospital stay, no significant difference emerged in mortality rate (MR) within the groups (23%, 16% and 8%, for groups A, B and C, respectively) and between patients with or without pneumonia: 8/29 (27%) versus 12/83 (14%). On multivariable analysis, only age and Glasgow Coma Scale had an impact on the clinical outcome.

Conclusion

In a non‐‘highly protected’ environment such as an experienced medical ward of a rural hospital, NIV is effective not only in patients with mild, but also with severe forms of RA. MR did not vary according to the level of initial pH.
Analysts' Cash Flow Forecasts, Audit Effort, and Audit Opinions on Internal Control
Authors: Mao Mike Qinghao , Yu Yangxin
Published: February 2015

We examine the economic impact of analysts’ cash flow forecasts by looking at how external auditors respond to financial analysts’ issuance of cash flow forecasts. Using a differences‐in‐differences approach, we find that financial analysts’ initiation of cash flow forecasts leads to reduced auditor fees and audit report lags. Moreover, after cash flow forecast initiation, firms report fewer Section 404(b) internal control weakness disclosures. These findings suggest that cash flow forecasts constrain earnings manipulation and improve management accounting behavior, thereby reducing inherent and control risk and strengthening firms’ internal control over financial reporting.
The Association of Serum Galectin‐3 Levels with Atrial Electrical and Structural Remodeling
Authors: YALCIN MUHAMMED U. , GURSES KADRI M. , KOCYIGIT DUYGU , CANPINAR HANDE , CANPOLAT UGUR , EVRANOS BANU , YORGUN HIKMET , SAHINER MEHMET L. , KAYA ERGUN B. , HAZIROLAN TUNCAY , TOKGOZOGLU LALE , OTO MEHMET A. , OZER NECLA , GUC DICLE , AYTEMIR KUDRET
Published: February 2015

Galectin‐3 and Left Atrial Remodeling in AF

Introduction

Left atrial (LA) interstitial fibrosis is known to have a role in the initiation and maintenance of atrial fibrillation (AF). The role of galectin‐3 in the pathogenesis of cardiac fibrosis has been demonstrated in previous studies. We aimed to determine whether serum galectin‐3 level is associated with markers of atrial remodeling, including the extent of LA fibrosis detected by delayed enhancement magnetic resonance imaging (DE‐MRI) and atrial electromechanical delay (AEMD) in paroxysmal AF patients with preserved left ventricular (LV) functions.

Methods and Results

Thirty‐three patients (58 [28–74] years, 51.5% male) with paroxysmal AF who underwent DE‐MRI prior to cryoballoon‐based AF ablation were included in the study. Serum galectin‐3 levels were measured with ELISA. LA volume index (B ± SE: 0.424 ± 0.504, 95% CI: 0.560–2.627, P = 0.004) and serum galectin‐3 levels (B ± SE: 0.549 ± 7.745, 95% CI: 16.874–47.550, P < 0.001) were found to be independently correlated with extent of LA fibrosis detected with DE‐MRI in paroxysmal AF patients with preserved LV function. Correlation analysis between AEMD parameters and baseline characteristics showed that galectin‐3 was significantly correlated with intra‐left (ρ = 0.432, P = 0.012) and inter‐AEMD (ρ = 0.395, P = 0.023). Duration of AF, LAD, and extent of LA fibrosis were also found to be significantly correlated with AEMD parameters.

Conclusion

This is a hypothesis‐generating study pointing out that serum galectin‐3 level is significantly associated with atrial remodeling in paroxysmal AF patients with preserved LV function. Further studies are necessary to provide exact pathophysiological mechanisms.
The outcome of oral implants placed in bone with limited bucco‐oral dimensions: a 3‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Temmerman Andy , Keestra Johan A. J. , Coucke Wim , Teughels Wim , Quirynen Marc
Published: February 2015

Aim

The dimension of the alveolar bone reduces significantly after tooth loss. Clinicians consider a 1–2 mm buccal and lingual bone width mandatory around the implant at placement. This prospective study analysed the outcome of implants inserted in jaws with narrow (≤4.5 mm) buccal bone dimensions.

Material and methods

Twenty‐eight patients (mean age 63, 89% female) with a narrow alveolar crest (≤4.5 mm in width on CBCT) received 100 implants (3.5 mm) via a two‐stage procedure. Intra‐oral radiographs were taken at placement, functional loading and after 1, 2 and 3‐years of follow‐up. Peri‐implant bone level alterations were recorded by two calibrated, periodontologists.

Results

All implants integrated and the cumulative survival rate after 3 years was 100%. The implants were inserted 0.81 mm ± 0.83 subcrestal. At functional loading the bone was located 0.65 mm ± 0.6 apical of the implant shoulder. During 3 years of loading the amount of annual marginal bone loss was 0.17 ± 0.4, 0.05 ± 0.4 and ‐ 0.06 ± 0.1 mm, respectively.

Conclusion

Based on these data and within the limitations of this study it became clear that implants, placed in sites with limited dimensions (≤4.5 mm width), showed minimal amounts of marginal bone loss during the first 3 years of functional loading.
Sympatric divergence and clinal variation in multiple coloration traits ofFicedulaflycatchers
Authors: Laaksonen T. , Sirkiä P. M. , Calhim S. , Brommer J. E. , Leskinen P. K. , Primmer C. R. , Adamík P. , Artemyev A. V. , Belskii E. , Both C. , Bureš S. , Burgess M. D. , Doligez B. , Forsman J. T. , Grinkov V. , Hoffmann U. , Ivankina E. , Král M. , Krams I. , Lampe H. M. , Moreno J. , Mägi M. , Nord A. , Potti J. , Ravussin P.‐A. , Sokolov L.
Published: February 2015

Geographic variation in phenotypes plays a key role in fundamental evolutionary processes such as local adaptation, population differentiation and speciation, but the selective forces behind it are rarely known. We found support for the hypothesis that geographic variation in plumage traits of the pied flycatcherFicedula hypoleucais explained by character displacement with the collared flycatcherFicedula albicollisin the contact zone. The plumage traits of the pied flycatcher differed strongly from the more conspicuous collared flycatcher in a sympatric area but increased in conspicuousness with increasing distance to there. Phenotypic differentiation (PST) was higher than that in neutral genetic markers (FST), and the effect of geographic distance remained when statistically controlling for neutral genetic differentiation. This suggests that a cline created by character displacement and gene flow explains phenotypic variation across the distribution of this species. The different plumage traits of the pied flycatcher are strongly to moderately correlated, indicating that they evolve non‐independently from each other. The flycatchers provide an example of plumage patterns diverging in two species that differ in several aspects of appearance. The divergence in sympatry and convergence in allopatry in these birds provide a possibility to study the evolutionary mechanisms behind the highly divergent avian plumage patterns.
Usefulness of endoscopic ultrasound‐guided sampling using core biopsy needle as a percutaneous biopsy rescue for diagnosis of solid liver mass: Combined histological‐cytological analysis
Authors: Lee Yun Nah , Moon Jong Ho , Kim Hee Kyung , Choi Hyun Jong , Choi Moon Han , Kim Dong Choon , Lee Tae Hee , Lee Tae Hoon , Cha Sang‐Woo , Kim Sang Gyune , Kim Young Seok
Published: February 2015

Background and Study Aims

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)‐guided fine needle aspiration (EUS‐FNA) is one of the alternative methods for tissue sampling of liver solid mass. However, the diagnostic efficacy using cytology alone was limited. In this study, we evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of EUS‐guided fine needle biopsy (EUS‐FNB) as a percutaneous biopsy rescue for liver solid mass.

Patients and Methods

The EUS‐FNB using core biopsy needle for liver solid mass was performed prospectively for patients who were failure to acquire a tissue or achieve a diagnosis using percutaneous liver biopsy. The primary outcome was the diagnostic accuracy of EUS‐FNB for malignancy and specific tumor type. The secondary outcomes were the median numbers of passes required to establish a diagnosis, the proportions of patients in whom immunohistochemical (IHC) stain was possible and obtained adequate specimen, and safety of EUS‐FNB.

Results

Twenty‐one patients (12 women; mean age, 63 years [range, 37–81]) underwent EUS‐FNB for solid liver masses. The median number of needle passes was 2.0 (range, 1–5). On‐site cytology and cytology with Papanicolaou stain showed malignancy in 16 patients (76.2%) and 17 patients (81.0%), respectively. In histology with HE stain, 19 patients (90.5%) were diagnosed malignancy and optimal to IHC stain. The overall diagnostic accuracy for malignancy and specific tumor type were 90.5% and 85.7%, respectively. No complications were seen.

Conclusions

EUS‐FNB with core biopsy needle for solid liver mass may be helpful in the management of patients who are unable to diagnose using percutaneous liver biopsy.
Mediator subunit 23 overexpression as a novel target for suppressing proliferation and tumorigenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Guo Yu , Wang Jing , Li Hua , Liu Wei , Chen Dong , Zhao Kun , Liang Xinjun , Zhang Qi , Yang Yang , Chen Guihua
Published: February 2015

Background and Aim

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most frequent cancer in the world. However, the molecular mechanisms involved in HCC are still poorly understood. Here, we study the role of mediator subunit 23 (MED23), a component of the Mediator complex, in hepatocarcinogenesis.

Methods

We detected MED23 expression in HCC samples by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemistry analysis. We also knocked down and overexpressed MED23 to explore its functional role in hepatoma cell growth. The cell cycle was examined by flow cytometry analysis, and protein expression was examined by Western blot. A xenograft mouse model was used to determine whether MED23 is involved in tumorigenesis.

Results

MED23 was frequently upregulated in human HCC tissues compared with paired adjacent non‐tumorous liver tissues. The hepatoma cells also showed increased MED23 expression. MED23 knockdown inhibited hepatoma cell growth, whereas overexpression of MED23 promoted cell growth. Knockdown of MED23 induced a G1 to S phase arrest. Moreover, MED23 regulated the expression of p16INK4a (p16) and the phosphorylation of retinoblastoma protein (Rb). p16 was transcriptionally upregulated, and its promoter was demethylated. The G1 to S phase arrest induced by MED23 knockdown was aborted after p16 was silenced. Furthermore, MED23 knockdown suppressed tumorigenesis and regulated p16/Rb signaling in vivo.

Conclusions

Taken together, our study suggests that MED23 plays an important role in hepatocarcinogenesis, and it may be a novel target for HCC therapy.
Role of serum toll‐like receptors 2 and 4 in non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis and liver fibrosis
Authors: Cengiz Mustafa , Ozenirler Seren , Elbeg Sehri
Published: February 2015

Background and Aim

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease is a common cause of chronic liver disease, including non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Our aim was to investigate whether serum toll‐like receptors 2 and 4 (TLR2 and TLR4) levels are correlated with NASH and able to predict liver fibrosis, as well as to compare these markers with other non‐invasive fibrosis scores (aspartate aminotransferase [AST] to alanine aminotransferase ratio, AST to platelet ratio index, fibrosis index, fibrosis 4, and fibrosis cirrhosis index).

Methods

Serum samples were obtained from consecutive biopsy proven NASH patients and healthy controls. Serum TLR2 and TLR4 were measured using ELISA. Stage of fibrosis was evaluated using the Brunt Criteria. The different non‐invasive fibrosis scores were compared using areas under the curve.

Results

Fifty‐seven patients with NASH and 57 healthy individuals were enrolled in the study. Serum TLR2 levels were not significantly different between the healthy controls and NASH patients. The medians were 3.88 ng/mL ± 0.29 versus 3.81 ng/mL ± 0.32, respectively (P = 0.587). In comparing the levels of TLR4 between groups, the medians were 1.05 ng/mL ± 0.13 versus 1.46 ng/mL ± 0.27, respectively (P < 0.001). In NASH patients, the levels of serum TLR4 increased with the stage of fibrosis: TLR4 medians were F0:1.01, F1:1.46, F2:2.14, F3:3.74, F4:5.83 (P < 0.001). TLR4 produced AUCs for ≥ F1, ≥ F2, and ≥ F3 of 0.862, 0.810, and 0.905, respectively (P < 0.001). TLR4 levels were more predictive than other non‐invasive fibrosis scores in liver fibrosis.

Conclusion

Serum TLR4 levels but not TLR2 were elevated in NASH patients in comparison with healthy controls. And in NASH patients, serum TLR4 levels both correlated with and were able to predict liver fibrosis.
Sustained virologic response achieved after curative treatment of hepatitis C virus‐related hepatocellular carcinoma as an independent prognostic factor
Authors: Kanogawa Naoya , Ogasawara Sadahisa , Chiba Tetsuhiro , Saito Tomoko , Motoyama Tenyu , Suzuki Eiichiro , Ooka Yoshihiko , Tawada Akinobu , Kanda Tatsuo , Mikami Shigeru , Azemoto Ryosaku , Kaiho Takashi , Shinozaki Masami , Ohtsuka Masayuki , Miyazaki Masaru , Yokosuka Osamu
Published: February 2015

Background and Aim

Whether an antiviral interferon (IFN)‐based therapy (IBT) after curative treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) improves the prognosis in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐related HCC remains to be elucidated.

Methods

A total of 178 patients within the Milan criteria underwent curative treatment for HCV‐related HCC. Both the time to beyond the Milan criteria (TTBMC) and overall survival (OS) were compared between the sustained virologic response (SVR) (IFN with SVR, n = 22), non‐SVR (IFN without SVR, n = 19), and non‐IBT (control, n = 82) groups using propensity score matching analysis. Prognostic factors to predict survival were also determined by the Cox proportional‐hazards model.

Results

TTBMC in the IFN with SVR group was significantly longer than those in the control and IFN without SVR groups (P < 0.001 and P = 0.006, respectively), although no significant difference existed between the IFN without SVR and control groups. Similarly, OS of the IFN with SVR group was significantly longer than that of the control and IFN without SVR groups (P < 0.001 and P = 0.029, respectively), although no significant difference existed between the IFN without SVR and control groups. The Cox proportional‐hazards model identified SVR as an independent prognostic factor in these patients. The IFN with SVR group showed a 0.096‐fold decrease in mortality risk compared with the control group (95% confidence intervals = 0.023–0.405; P = 0.001).

Conclusion

Elimination of HCV after curative treatment of patients with HCC within the Milan criteria inhibits recurrence and contributes to a preferential prognosis.