bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of low‐dose naltrexone in painful diabetic neuropathy: A randomized, double‐blind, active‐control, crossover clinical trial
Authors: Srinivasan Anand , Dutta Pinaki , Bansal Dipika , Chakrabarti Amitava , Bhansali Anil Kumar , Hota Debasish 
Published: May 2021

AbstractBackgroundThere is a need for newer therapies for chronic painful diabetic neuropathy as the existing drugs have their own limitations. Clinical trials on low‐dose naltrexone (1‐5 mg/d) showed efficacy and safety in certain chronic painful conditions, but not in painful diabetic neuropathy. Hence the present study was planned.MethodsSixty‐seven participants with painful diabetic neuropathy were randomized to receive either 2 mg naltrexone or 10 mg amitriptyline daily following a 2‐week run‐in period. The participants were followed up every 2 weeks for a total of 6 weeks. Up‐titration was done (to 4 mg naltrexone or 25/50 mg amitriptyline) if the pain reduction was less than 20% on the visual analog scale (VAS) during the next follow‐up visit. Efficacy was assessed using the change in VAS score at the end of 6 weeks from baseline. Safety was evaluated at each follow‐up visit. After 2 weeks of washout period, the participants were crossed over to receive the comparator drug for another 6 weeks with similar evaluations.ResultsThe difference (confidence interval) in the change in VAS score between groups from baseline was 1.64 (−0.92 to 4.20) in per‐protocol analysis and 1.5 (−1.11 to 4.13) in intention‐to‐treat analysis. Eight and fifty‐two adverse events were reported in the naltrexone and amitriptyline groups, respectively (P < .001). The most common adverse events were mild diarrhea with naltrexone and somnolence with amitriptyline.ConclusionsLow‐dose naltrexone exhibited similar efficacy and a superior safety profile compared with amitriptyline in painful diabetic neuropathy.
Screening and detection of chromosomal copy number alterations in the domestic horse using SNP‐array genotyping data
Authors: Pirosanto Y. , Laseca N. , Valera M. , Molina A. , Moreno‐Millán M. , Bugno‐Poniewierska M. , Ross P. , Azor P. , Demyda‐Peyrás S. 
Published: May 2021

SummaryChromosomal abnormalities are a common cause of infertility in horses. However, they are difficult to detect using automated methods. Here, we propose a simple methodology based on single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)‐array data that allows us to detect the main chromosomal abnormalities in horses in a single procedure. As proof of concept, we were able to detect chromosomal abnormalities in 33 out of 268 individuals, including monosomies, chimerisms, and male and female sex‐reversions, by analyzing the raw signal intensity produced by an SNP array‐based genotyping platform. We also demonstrated that the procedure is not affected by the SNP density of the array employed or by the inbreeding level of the individuals. Finally, the methodology proposed in this study could be performed in an open bioinformatic environment, thus permitting its integration as a flexible screening tool in diagnostic laboratories and genomic breeding programs.
Gridlock, Bureaucratic Control, and Nonstatutory Policymaking in Congress
Authors: Bolton Alexander 
Published: May 2021

AbstractIncreasing ideological polarization and dysfunction in Congress raise questions about whether and how Congress remains capable of constraining the activities of other actors in the separation of powers system. In this article, I argue Congress uses nonstatutory policymaking tools to overcome the burdens of legislative gridlock in an increasingly polarized time to constrain executive branch actors. I leverage a new data set of committee reports issued by the House and Senate appropriations committees from fiscal years 1923 through 2019 to empirically explore these dynamics and evaluate my argument. Traditionally, these reports are a primary vehicle through which Congress directs agency policymaking in the appropriations process. Committees increasingly turn to them when passing legislation is most difficult and interbranch agency problems are most pronounced. In this way, nonstatutory mechanisms may help maintain the balance of power across branches, even when Congress faces gridlock‐induced incapacity.
Laparoscopic side‐to‐side duodenoduodenostomy versus diamond‐shaped anastomosis for annular pancreas in the neonate
Authors: Li Bing , Chen Bing W. , Xia Lin S. 
Published: May 2021

AbstractBackgroundThe aim of this report is to present our experience of the last 5 years with repairs of congenital annular pancreas in neonates to determine the efficacy and outcomes of laparoscopic side‐to‐side duodenoduodenostomy compared to laparoscopic diamond‐shaped anastomosis.MethodsA total of 35 patients with congenital annular pancreas in neonates were operated by laparoscopic procedure at our hospital during January 2015 and September 2020. Twenty patients underwent laparoscopic side‐to‐side duodenoduodenostomy (group A), and 15 patients of the control group underwent laparoscopic diamond‐shaped anastomosis (group B). The clinical data between the two groups were compared.ResultsThe operative time is 77.5 ± 18.7 min in group A (range 50 ~ 125 min), and 92.5 ± 20.2 min in group B (range 75–155 min) (P = 0.029). Feedings started on postoperative day 4.5 ± 0.9 (range 3–6 days) in group A, whereas 6.5 ± 0.8 (range 4–7 days) in group B (P = 0.013). The cases in group A were discharged uneventfully in a mean of 9.2 ± 2.3 (range 7–15 days) postoperative day, and 11.4 ± 3.7 days (range 8–20 days) in group B (P = 0.041). The cases of group A have been followed up for 33.1 ± 15.4 months (range 3–60 months), group B had been followed up for 32.0 ± 14.0 months (range 6–55 months) (P > 0.05), and all the cases were doing well at the last follow‐up examination.ConclusionLaparoscopic side‐to‐side duodenoduodenostomy is beneficial to the recovery of intestinal function postoperatively in the neonate with annular pancreas.
The intensification of work in Europe: A multilevel analysis
Authors: Adăscăliței Dragoș , Heyes Jason , Mendonça Pedro 
Published: May 2021

AbstractUsing the most recent two waves of the European Working Conditions Survey (2010 and 2015) in a multilevel setting, the paper argues that national institutions have a significant effect on shifts in work intensity. We find that work has intensified in the aftermath of the economic crisis, but that intensification is restricted by labour market regulation and collective bargaining institutions. However, the effect of working time regulations varies across employment groups, with intensity levels for temporary agency workers increasing as regulations become more stringent. Furthermore, higher levels of unemployment intensify work for agency workers but not for workers on a fixed‐term contract relative to workers on a permanent contract.
Single nucleotide variants of succinate dehydrogenase A gene in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Kamai Takao , Higashi Satoru , Murakami Satoshi , Arai Kyoko , Namatame Takashi , Kijima Toshiki , Abe Hideyuki , Jamiyan Tsengelmaa , Ishida Kazuyuki , Shirataki Hiromichi , Yoshida Ken‐Ichiro 
Published: May 2021

AbstractSuccinate dehydrogenase (SDH)‐deficient renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is mainly associated with a mutation in the SDHB gene and sometimes with mutations in the SDHC or SDHD genes. However, only three cases of succinate dehydrogenase A (SDHA)‐deficient RCC have been reported, and the relation between SDHA mutations and RCC has not been clarified. This study assessed the role of SDHA gene mutations in human RCC. We investigated SDHA/B/C/D gene mutations in 129 human RCCs. Targeted next‐generation sequencing and direct Sanger sequencing revealed single nucleotide variants (SNVs) of the SDHA gene with amino acid sequence variations in 11/129 tumors, while no SDHB/C/D gene mutations were found. Tumor cells with SNVs of the SDHA gene were characterized by eosinophilic cytoplasm and various patterns of proliferation. Immunohistochemistry examination found that the 11 tumors with SNVs of the SDHA gene showed significant reduction of SDHA protein and SDHB protein expression compared to the 19 tumors without SDHA or SDHB mutations (both P < .0001). Western blotting showed a greater decrease in the expression of SDHA and SDHB proteins in the 11 tumors with SNVs of the SDHA gene than in the 19 tumors without (both P < .0001). There was a positive correlation between SDHA and SDHB protein levels (P < .0001). On immunohistochemistry and Western blotting, the 11 tumors with SNVs of the SDHA gene had higher protein expression for nuclear factor E2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) compared to the 19 tumors without the mutation (P < .01). These observations suggest that SDHA gene mutations might be associated with a subset of RCC.
Activation of EHF via STAT3 phosphorylation by LMP2A in Epstein‐Barr virus–positive gastric cancer
Authors: Li Wenzhe , Okabe Atsushi , Usui Genki , Fukuyo Masaki , Matsusaka Keisuke , Rahmutulla Bahityar , Mano Yasunobu , Hoshii Takayuki , Funata Sayaka , Hiura Nobuhiro , Fukayama Masashi , Tan Patrick , Ushiku Tetsuo , Kaneda Atsushi 
Published: May 2021

AbstractEpstein‐Barr virus (EBV) is associated with approximately 10% of gastric cancers (GCs). We previously showed that EBV infection of gastric epithelial cells induces aberrant DNA methylation in promoter regions, which causes silencing of critical tumor suppressor genes. Here, we analyzed gene expressions and active histone modifications (H3K4me3, H3K4me1, and H3K27ac) genome‐widely in EBV‐positive GC cell lines and in vitro EBV‐infected GC cell lines to elucidate the transcription factors contributing to tumorigenesis through enhancer activation. Genes associated with “signaling of WNT in cancer” were significantly enriched in EBV‐positive GC, showing increased active β‐catenin staining. Genes neighboring activated enhancers were significantly upregulated, and EHF motif was significantly enriched in these active enhancers. Higher expression of EHF in clinical EBV‐positive GC compared with normal tissue and EBV‐negative GC was confirmed by RNA‐seq using The Cancer Genome Atlas cohort, and by immunostaining using our cohort. EHF knockdown markedly inhibited cell proliferation. Moreover, there was significant enrichment of critical cancer pathway–related genes (eg, FZD5) in the downstream of EHF. EBV protein LMP2A caused upregulation of EHF via phosphorylation of STAT3. STAT3 knockdown was shown to inhibit cellular growth of EBV‐positive GC cells, and the inhibition was rescued by EHF overexpression. Our data highlighted the important role of EBV infection in gastric tumorigenesis via enhancer activation.
Using chemical speciation modelling to discuss variations in patch test reactions to different aluminium and chromium salts
Authors: Nikpour Saman , Hedberg Yolanda S. 
Published: May 2021

AbstractBackgroundAllergic contact dermatitis to metals is diagnosed by applying a metal salt in a patch test. The bioavailability of the metal salt might depend on the choice of metal salt, the concentration, sweat composition, and pH.ObjectivesThe main purpose of this study was to apply chemical speciation modelling, which is based on experimentally derived input data and calculates the concentrations of chemical forms (species) in solutions, to reproduce and discuss clinical patch test results of aluminium and chromium.MethodsJoint Expert Speciation System (JESS), Hydra/Medusa, and Visual MINTEQ were employed to study the bioavailable fraction and chemical form of clinically applied aluminium and chromium salts as a function of salt type, applied concentration, sweat composition, and pH.ResultsInvestigated aluminium and chromium salts can have a very low bioavailability with a large dependency on sweat composition, pH, metal salt, and concentration. Both aluminium and chromium ions could shift the pH towards acidic or basic values based on their chemical form.ConclusionsReported seasonal and interpatient variability in positive reactions to aluminium is likely related to sweat pH and composition. Potassium dichromate increases the pH, whereas aluminium and trivalent chromium chloride strongly decrease the pH, possibly increasing skin diffusion.
A biodiversity hotspot in turmoil: Doing away with circular 5/2001 could have catastrophic consequences for Sri Lanka's forests
Authors: Samarasinghe Dinal J. S. , Wikramanayake Eric D. , Jayakody Sevvandi , Fernando Suranjan , Gunawardana Jagath , Braczkowski Alexander 
Published: May 2021

AbstractIn 2017, Sri Lanka set a goal to increase its forest cover to 32% by 2030 (Sri Lanka UN‐REDD, 2017). However, on November 4th 2020, the government published circular MWFC/1/2020 revoking the circular 5/2001 of August 10th 2001, one of the country's most crucial forest protection directives. The revocation of the 5/2001 circular could severely hamper this target, posing a threat of deforestation to a variety of ecosystems which are not part of any formally designated protected areas (PA) in Sri Lanka, also known as Other State Forests. This includes forested areas adjoining PAs which are crucial for habitat connectivity and standalone state forest lands. Such a retrograde step could have potentially catastrophic ramifications on Sri Lanka's declining forest cover. It would also severely weaken the country's commitments to inter alia, the UNREDD Programme, Kyoto protocol and CBD. We therefore call on the Government of Sri Lanka to urgently reconsider and reverse this decision.
Niche differences may reduce susceptibility to competition between native and non‐native birds in oceanic islands
Authors: Soares Filipa C. , Leal Ana I. , Palmeirim Jorge M. , de Lima Ricardo F. 
Published: May 2021

AbstractAimFew bird extinctions on oceanic island have been attributed to competition with non‐native species, even though it might be an overlooked driver of biodiversity loss. We evaluate the potential competition between native and non‐native island bird species, identifying species and island characteristics that enhance it and may promote future extinctions.LocationSeventy‐three (>100 km2) oceanic islands worldwide.MethodsWe compiled a species list for each island and used single‐trait meta‐analyses to assess differences between native and non‐native species. Then, we used single‐trait beta regression models to identify species traits linked to potential competition. Finally, we used a trait‐based approach to calculate the potential competition between native and non‐native species on each island and identify island characteristics linked to potential competition.ResultsNative bird species tended to be smaller forest dwellers, that were either carnivore, frugivore or insectivore, and that foraged in flight, in the canopy or at mid‐height. In contrast, non‐native birds tended to be open habitat granivores, that were either ground or unspecialized foragers. Potential competition tended to be higher for native species with typical non‐native traits and forest‐dwelling unspecialized non‐native species. Potential competition between native and non‐native birds was consistently higher in islands that were larger, had more non‐native birds or were drier.Main conclusionsNiche differentiation of native and non‐native species may explain the scarcity of reported competition‐driven extinctions since non‐natives clearly tend to favour and are better adapted to anthropogenic environments. However, the few non‐native birds that occur in native ecosystems may be problematic. The loss of native ecosystems coupled with the introduction of species that might outcompete native species may enhance the relevance of competition in future island extinctions.
Creation and relations—A sami perspective on Scandinavian creation theology
Authors: Webber Torbjørn Brox 
Published: May 2021

AbstractFrom a Sami perspective, this article discusses how Scandinavian creation theology can support a stronger resilience against that which threatens the creation in all its variations. Sápmi is the land of the Indigenous Sami people in the northern part of Scandinavia and Kola penisiluania in Russia. During the 19th and 20th century the Norwegian part of Sápmi was colonized in the so‐called Norwegianization project. Today we see an increasing battle around natural resources. The article briefly depicts Sami indigenous theology, which emphasizes the circle of life, creation, and humanity's relationship within the creation and its Creator. It then presents several basic features of Scandinavian creation theology that highlight the egalitarianism surrounding the creation and how all people stand in relation to this with an ethical obligation to defend life where it is threatened.
Atrial cholangiocarcinoma diagnosed by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Marschall Alexander , Rodriguez Torres Diego , Rueda Liñares Andrea , del Castillo Carnevali Hugo , Dejuán Bitriá Carmen , Fraile Sanz Cristina , Duarte Torres Juan , Álvarez Antón Salvador , Martí Sánchez David 
Published: May 2021

AbstractIn this rare case of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) tumor thrombus with right atrial (RA) invasion, we describe its diagnostic workup based on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI). An 85‐year‐old man underwent transthoracic echocardiography due to dyspnea, revealing a RA mass. Comprehensive cMRI evaluation, including cine bright blood, T1‐ and T2‐weighed, fat‐suppressed, and contrast‐enhanced imaging, was performed and diagnosis of ICC tumor thrombus with RA invasion was made. This first description of cMRI‐guided diagnosis of RA invasion by ICC tumor thrombus points out the usefulness of cMRI for the diagnostic approach of RA masses suggestive of tumor thrombus.
Fundamental and clinical neuropharmacology, a terra incognita with constantly expanding frontiers
Authors: Zimmer Luc 
Published: May 2021

ABSTRACTNeuropharmacology is the science that studies the effects of drugs on the central nervous system. Examining the recent history of neuropharmacology allows us to identify future challenges and to project into the future. The contemporary history of neuropharmacology begins with the empirical use of psychotropic alkaloids in barbiturate preparations. Then the discovery of neuroleptics in the 1950s truly opened up the field of pharmacological science, with psychopharmacological clinical exploration in psychiatry, complemented by the contributions of neurochemists and biochemists discovering and exploring neurotransmission. These studies also contributed to the development of dopaminergic and serotonergic drugs used in neurology. The more recent period brought the advent of neuropsychopharmacology, sharing therapeutic targets in neurology and psychiatry on the one hand, and a translational research approach on the other. Moreover, the pharmacology of brain drugs is still a growing discipline in 2020. Despite emerging pharmacological concepts (biased agonists, glial targeting, epigenetic therapeutics, etc.), entire areas of brain‐based therapeutics need to be renewed, particularly in psychiatry, offering great challenges to a new generation of pharmacologists and clinicians.
Increased connectivity and depth improve the effectiveness of marine reserves
Authors: Goetze Jordan S. , Wilson Shaun , Radford Ben , Fisher Rebecca , Langlois Tim J. , Monk Jacquomo , Knott Nathan A. , Malcolm Hamish , Currey‐Randall Leanne M. , Ierodiaconou Daniel , Harasti David , Barrett Neville , Babcock Russell C. , Bosch Nestor E. , Brock Danny , Claudet Joachim , Clough Jock , Fairclough David V. , Heupel Michelle R. , Holmes Thomas H. , Huveneers Charlie , Jordan Alan R. , McLean Dianne , Meekan Mark , Miller David , Newman Stephen J. , Rees Matthew J. , Roberts Kelsey E. , Saunders Benjamin J. , Speed Conrad W. , Travers Michael J. , Treml Eric , Whitmarsh Sasha K. , Wakefield Corey B. , Harvey Euan S. 
Published: May 2021

AbstractMarine reserves are a key tool for the conservation of marine biodiversity, yet only ~2.5% of the world's oceans are protected. The integration of marine reserves into connected networks representing all habitats has been encouraged by international agreements, yet the benefits of this design has not been tested empirically. Australia has one of the largest systems of marine reserves, providing a rare opportunity to assess how connectivity influences conservation success. An Australia‐wide dataset was collected using baited remote underwater video systems deployed across a depth range from 0 to 100 m to assess the effectiveness of marine reserves for protecting teleosts subject to commercial and recreational fishing. A meta‐analytical comparison of 73 fished species within 91 marine reserves found that, on average, marine reserves had 28% greater abundance and 53% greater biomass of fished species compared to adjacent areas open to fishing. However, benefits of protection were not observed across all reserves (heterogeneity), so full subsets generalized additive modelling was used to consider factors that influence marine reserve effectiveness, including distance‐based and ecological metrics of connectivity among reserves. Our results suggest that increased connectivity and depth improve the aforementioned marine reserve benefits and that these factors should be considered to optimize such benefits over time. We provide important guidance on factors to consider when implementing marine reserves for the purpose of increasing the abundance and size of fished species, given the expected increase in coverage globally. We show that marine reserves that are highly protected (no‐take) and designed to optimize connectivity, size and depth range can provide an effective conservation strategy for fished species in temperate and tropical waters within an overarching marine biodiversity conservation framework.
Curcumin mouthwashes versus chlorhexidine in controlling plaque and gingivitis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Al‐Maweri Sadeq A. , Alhajj Mohammed Nasser , Deshisha Esraa A. , Alshafei Ameera K. , Ahmed Azza I. , Almudayfi Nada O. , Alshammari Sara A. , Alsharif Alla , Kassim Saba 
Published: May 2021

AbstractObjectivesThe purpose of the present systematic review and meta‐analysis was to assess the available evidence regarding the efficacy of curcumin mouthwashes on plaque and gingivitis.MethodsA comprehensive online search of multiple databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar) was performed to identify all relevant studies published up to August 2020, using the following keywords: curcumin, turmeric, gingivitis, periodontal health, and plaque control. All clinical trials that compared the efficacy of curcumin mouthwash with chlorhexidine in controlling dental plaque and gingivitis were included. Data were analysed using Review Manager (RevMan) 5.3 software. The risk of bias was evaluated by two independent reviewers using the Cochrane assessment tool.ResultsSix randomized clinical trials (comprising 320 subjects) fulfilled the eligibility criteria. Five studies showed a high risk of bias and only one study showed a low risk of bias. The pooled data of the six included studies revealed comparable efficacy of curcumin and chlorhexidine in reducing dental plaque (I2 = 91%; standardized mean difference [SMD]: 0.27, 95% CI: −0.53, 1.07,p = 0. 51) and gingival inflammation (I2 = 40%; SMD: −0.13, 95% CI: −0.35, 0.09,p = 0.24), with no statistically significant differences between the two groups.ConclusionThe results suggest that curcumin mouthwashes have promising anti‐plaque and anti‐gingivitis properties. Further clinical trials with adequate sample sizes and standardized methodologies are required to discern the efficacy of curcumin mouthwash in reducing plaque and gingivitis.