bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Extracellular vesicles, news about their role in immune cells: physiology, pathology and diseases
Authors: Meldolesi J 
Published: February 2019

Summary
Two types of extracellular vesicles (EVs), exosomes and ectosomes, are generated and released by all cells, including immune cells. The two EVs appear different in many properties: size, mechanism and site of assembly, composition of their membranes and luminal cargoes, sites and processes of release. In functional terms, however, these differences are minor. Moreover, their binding to and effects on target cells appear similar, thus the two types are considered distinct only in a few cases, otherwise they are presented together as EVs. The EV physiology of the various immune cells differs as expected from their differential properties. Some properties, however, are common: EV release, taking place already at rest, is greatly increased upon cell stimulation; extracellular navigation occurs adjacent and at distance from the releasing cells; binding to and uptake by target cells are specific. EVs received from other immune or distinct cells govern many functions in target cells. Immune diseases in which EVs play multiple, often opposite (aggression and protection) effects, are numerous; inflammatory diseases; pathologies of various tissues; and brain diseases, such as multiple sclerosis. EVs also have effects on interactive immune and cancer cells. These effects are often distinct, promoting cytotoxicity or proliferation, the latter together with metastasis and angiogenesis. Diagnoses depend on the identification of EV biomarkers; therapies on various mechanisms such as (1) removal of aggression-inducing EVs; (2) EV manipulations specific for single targets, with insertion of surface peptides or luminal miRNAs; and (3) removal or re-expression of molecules from target cells.
Antibody responses to Bordetella pertussis and other childhood vaccines in infants born to mothers who received pertussis vaccine in pregnancy – a prospective, observational cohort study from the United Kingdom
Authors: Rice T F , Diavatopoulos D A , Smits G P , van Gageldonk P G M , Berbers G A M , van der Klis F R , Vamvakas G , Donaldson B , Bouqueau M , Holder B , Kampmann B 
Published: February 2019

Summary
The maternal Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis) vaccination programme in the United Kingdom has successfully reduced cases of pertussis in young infants. In addition to prevention of pertussis cases, it is also important to investigate the persistence of maternal antibodies during infancy and the possible interference of maternal antibodies with infant responses to vaccines. We recruited mother–infant pairs from vaccinated and unvaccinated pregnancies and measured concentrations of immunoglobulin (Ig)G against pertussis toxin (PTx), filamentous haemagglutinin (FHA), pertactin (Prn), diphtheria toxin (DTx), tetanus toxoid (TTx) Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and Streptococcus pneumoniae in mothers and infants at birth, and in infants at 7 weeks and at 5 months. Thirty-one mother–infant pairs were tested. Tdap-vaccinated women had significantly higher antibody against Tdap antigens, compared to unvaccinated women (DTx, P = 0·01; PTx, FHA, Prn and TTx, P &lt; 0·001). All antibodies were actively transferred to the infants (transfer ratio &gt; 1) with higher transfer of DTx (P = 0·04) and TTx (P = 0·02) antibody in Tdap-vaccinated pregnancies compared to unvaccinated pregnancies. Infants from Tdap-vaccinated pregnancies had significantly elevated antibodies to all antigens at birth (P &lt; 0.001) and at 7 weeks (FHA, Prn, TTx, P &lt; 0·001; DTx, P = 0.01; PTx, P = 0·004) compared to infants from unvaccinated pregnancies. Infants from Tdap-vaccinated and -unvaccinated pregnancies had comparable antibody concentrations following primary pertussis immunization (PTx, P = 0·77; FHA, P = 0·58; Prn, P = 0·60; DTx, P = 0·09; TTx, P = 0·88). These results support maternal immunization as a method of protecting vulnerable infants during their first weeks of life.
Ventilatory response to CO2 in patients with epilepsy
Authors: Sainju Rup K. , Dragon Deidre N. , Winnike Harold B. , Nashelsky Marcus B. , Granner Mark A. , Gehlbach Brian K. , Richerson George B. 
Published: February 2019

SummaryObjectiveSevere periictal respiratory depression is thought to be linked to risk of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) but its determinants are largely unknown. Interindividual differences in the interictal ventilatory response to CO2 (hypercapnic ventilatory response [HCVR] or central respiratory CO2 chemosensitivity) may identify patients who are at increased risk for severe periictal hypoventilation. HCVR has not been studied previously in patients with epilepsy; therefore we evaluated a method to measure it at bedside in an epilepsy monitoring unit (EMU) and examined its relationship to postictal hypercapnia following generalized convulsive seizures (GCSs).MethodsInterictal HCVR was measured by a respiratory gas analyzer using a modified rebreathing technique. Minute ventilation (VE), tidal volume, respiratory rate, end tidal (ET) CO2 and O2 were recorded continuously. Dyspnea during the test was assessed using a validated scale. The HCVR slope (ΔVE/ΔETCO2) for each subject was determined by linear regression. During the video–electroencephalography (EEG) study, subjects underwent continuous respiratory monitoring, including measurement of chest and abdominal movement, oronasal airflow, transcutaneous (tc) CO2, and capillary oxygen saturation (SPO2).ResultsSixty‐eight subjects completed HCVR testing in 151 ± (standard deviation) 58 seconds, without any serious adverse events. HCVR slope ranged from −0.94 to 5.39 (median 1.71) L/min/mm Hg. HCVR slope correlated with the degree of unpleasantness and intensity of dyspnea and was inversely related to baseline ETCO2. Both the duration and magnitude of postictal tcCO2 rise following GCSs were inversely correlated with HCVR slope.SignificanceMeasurement of the HCVR is well tolerated and can be performed rapidly and safely at the bedside in the EMU. A subset of individuals has a very low sensitivity to CO2, and this group is more likely to have a prolonged increase in postictal CO2 after GCS. Low interictal HCVR may increase the risk of severe respiratory depression and SUDEP after GCS and warrants further study.
2D and 3D radiographic outcome assessment of the effect of guided tissue regeneration using resorbable collagen membrane in the healing of through‐and‐through periapical lesions – a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Parmar P. D. , Dhamija R. , Tewari S. , Sangwan P. , Gupta A. , Duhan J. , Mittal S. 
Published: February 2019

AbstractAimTo evaluate the effect of collagen membrane on the healing of through‐and‐through periapical lesions using 2‐dimensional (2D) and 3‐dimensional (3D) imaging techniques.MethodologyThirty‐two patients with periapical radiolucencies measuring at least 10 mm and with confirmed loss of buccal and lingual cortical plates were randomly divided into GTR and control groups. Periapical surgery was performed in both groups, using a resorbable collagen membrane in the GTR group only. 2D healing was evaluated according to Molven's criteria, while 3D healing was assessed using modified PENN 3D criteria, RAC indices and the B index, 12 months after surgery. Data were analysed using Chi‐square, Mann–Whitney and Wilcoxon signed rank tests.ResultsThirty patients were analysed at the 12 months follow‐up. Both groups had a significant reduction in the size of lesions [92 ± 12% (control) and 86 ± 14% (GTR) in 2D and 85 ± 19% (Control) and 82 ± 13% (GTR) in 3D], with no significant difference between the groups (P > 0.05). A total of 29(14 control, 15 GTR) teeth and 26(13 control, 13 GTR) teeth were classified as success according to Molven's (2D) and modified PENN 3D criteria, respectively, with no significant difference in success between 2D and 3D assessments. RAC indices of 3D images revealed the greatest percentage of complete healing in R scores (55% for Control, 41% for GTR), whereas cortical plate had the lowest percentage of healing (30% for Control, 27% for GTR) (P > 0.05). Only 2 (13%) patients in each group had complete healing using the B index.ConclusionPeriapical surgery with or without GTR was a predictable and viable solution for through‐and‐through lesions. There was no benefit in using a collagen membrane with regard to the outcome of periapical surgery in through‐and‐through lesions. Both cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and periapical radiographs (PA) allowed similar assessment of healing after periapical surgery.
Consumers’ attitudes towards alternative grains: a conjoint analysis study
Authors: Gosine Laura , McSweeney Matthew B. 
Published: February 2019

SummaryRecently, alternative grains (millet, quinoa, sorghum) have been used to produce several food products common to North Americans. The objective of this study was to identify the attributes that drive consumers liking of alternative grains. A literature review and two focus groups were conducted. Four attributes were identified as being important to consumers when purchasing alternative grains. These attributes included grains, product type, flavour and claims. A choice‐ based conjoint analysis survey was created and administered to 346 individuals who live in Atlantic Canada. Product type and flavour were the most important attributes to consumers. Sweet and nutty flavours, products made from quinoa, or products with claims indicating they were a source of fibre, reduced risk of type 2 diabetes or reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, had a positive effect on consumer liking.
Low serum creatinine and risk of diabetes: The Japan Epidemiology Collaboration on Occupational Health Study
Authors: Hu Huanhuan , Nakagawa Tohru , Honda Toru , Yamamoto Shuichiro , Okazaki Hiroko , Yamamoto Makoto , Miyamoto Toshiaki , Eguchi Masafumi , Kochi Takeshi , Shimizu Makiko , Murakami Taizo , Tomita Kentaro , Ogasawara Takayuki , Sasaki Naoko , Uehara Akihiko , Kuwahara Keisuke , Kabe Isamu , Mizoue Tetsuya , Sone Tomofumi , Dohi Seitaro ,   the Japan Epidemiology Collaboration on Occupational Health Study Group
Published: February 2019

AbstractAims/IntroductionWe examined a prospective association between serum creatinine levels and diabetes.Materials and MethodsThe present study included 31,343 male workers without diabetes, and aged between 20 and 64 years at baseline. We calculated the cumulative average of their serum creatinine over the study period. We defined diabetes as either glycated hemoglobin levels ≥6.5%, random glucose levels ≥200 mg/dL, fasting glucose levels ≥126 mg/dL or receiving antidiabetic treatment. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was carried out to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).ResultsWith a median observation of 7.7 years, 2,509 participants developed diabetes. After adjusting for age, smoking, body mass index, hypertension and dyslipidemia, lower cumulative average serum creatinine levels were related to a greater diabetes risk: HRs were 1.56 (95% CI 1.35–1.82), 1.22 (1.09–1.35) and 1.06 (0.96–1.17) for the participants with serum creatinine <0.70, 0.70–0.79 and 0.80–0.89 mg/dL, respectively, compared with those with 0.90–1.20 mg/dL (P for trend <0.001). The serum creatinine‐diabetes association was more pronounced among older adults (serum creatinine <0.70 vs 0.90–1.20 mg/dL, HR 1.66, 95% CI 1.37–2.00) than younger adults (HR 1.32, 95% CI 1.02–1.71; P for interaction by age group = 0.001).ConclusionsLow serum creatinine is associated with an increased risk of diabetes. Screening serum creatinine levels can be used to identify those who are at high risk of diabetes.
Time course and prognostic value of serum GFAP, pNFH, and S100β concentrations in dogs with complete spinal cord injury because of intervertebral disc extrusion
Authors: Olby Natasha J. , Lim Ji‐Hey , Wagner Nikki , Zidan Natalia , Early Peter J. , Mariani Christopher L. , Muñana Karen R. , Laber Eric 
Published: February 2019

BackgroundA noninvasive biomarker is needed to predict recovery from severe spinal cord injury (SCI) because of thoracolumbar intervertebral disc extrusion (TL‐IVDE). Proteins released from neural and glial cells can be detected in the blood and show promise as prognostic tools, but their concentration is influenced by time after injury.Hypothesis/ObjectivesSerum concentrations of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), phosphorylated neurofilament heavy chain (pNFH), and S100β will follow different time courses; measurement of combinations of these proteins will predict outcome.AnimalsThirty‐one dogs with TL‐IVDE causing paralysis with no pain perception.MethodsProspective study. Serum samples were taken at presentation and intervals over 56 days and banked at −80°C. Glial fibrillary acidic protein, pNFH, and S100β concentrations were measured using ELISA tests and plotted against time from onset of nonambulatory status. Outcome was established at 6 months. The association between biomarker concentration and outcome was examined using logistic regression, receiver operator characteristics curve analysis, and model development.ResultsThirty‐one dogs participated, 3/31 (10%) developed progressive myelomalacia and 19/31 (62%) recovered ambulation. Glial fibrillary acidic protein and S100β concentrations rose for the first 1 to 3 days, and were undetectable by 14 and 28 days, respectively. Phosphorylated neurofilament heavy chain concentrations peaked at 14 days and were detectable at 56 days. Glial fibrillary acidic protein concentrations in the first 72 hours after onset of nonambulatory status predicted recovery with an accuracy of 76.7%‐89% depending on sample timing.Conclusions and Clinical ImportanceSerum GFAP concentrations can be used to predict outcome in clinically complete SCI. A rapid inexpensive bedside test is needed.
Changes in thyroid and renal function after bilateral thyroidectomy in cats
Authors: Covey Heather L. , Chang Yu‐mei , Elliott Jonathan , Syme Harriet M. 
Published: February 2019

BackgroundIatrogenic hypothyroidism might worsen the prognosis of cats with azotemic CKD after thyroidectomy. Varying thyroxine concentrations influence utility of creatinine in assessing renal function. Symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) has limited studies in cats with changing thyroid status.ObjectivesThyroid status is stable 6 months post‐thyroidectomy. Symmetric dimethylarginine and creatinine are linearly associated without influence from total thyroxine concentration (tT4).AnimalsElectronic records of 2 first opinion practices were searched using the term “thyroidectomy” to include 81 client‐owned cats that had undergone bilateral thyroidectomy.MethodsRetrospective cross‐sectional study assessing thyroid hormone concentrations of 68 cats within 6 months of surgery. A longitudinal study of thyroid status in 23 cats with >18 months follow‐up post‐thyroidectomy. A generalized estimating equation assessed the associations of bodyweight, tT4 and creatinine concentrations on SDMA concentration.ResultsSixty‐eight cats had follow‐up within 6 months. Fifteen cats (22%) had persistent, or recurrent, hyperthyroidism and 33 cats (49%) were hypothyroid. Twenty‐three of the euthyroid/hypothyroid cats had long‐term follow‐up (595‐1955 days); 4 cats (17%) remained hypothyroid, 19 cats (83%) were euthyroid (often transiently), and 9 of 23 cats (44%) developed recurrent hyperthyroidism. Symmetric dimethylarginine and creatinine were linearly associated, but hyperthyroid cats had higher SDMA concentrations, relative to creatinine (P = .003).Conclusions and Clinical ImportanceCats have changes in thyroid function for years after bilateral thyroidectomy, with a high incidence of recurrent hyperthyroidism. Both SDMA and creatinine are affected by thyroxine concentrations, and the effect is greater in hyperthyroid cats.
Influence of environmental disturbances and reproductive strategy on genetic diversity and differentiation of Zostera marina populations on the southern coast of Korea
Authors: Kim Young Kyun , Kim Seung Hyeon , Yi Joo Mi , Park Sang Rul , Lee Kun‐Seop 
Published: February 2019

AbstractThe genetic diversity and differentiation of four Zostera marina populations along the southern coast of Korea were estimated using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers to determine the effects of natural and anthropogenic stresses and reproductive strategy on within‐population genetic diversity. The mean number of alleles and gene diversities, indicating population genetic diversity, was highest in the Z. marina population that was exposed to repeated environmental disturbances, and lowest in the most undisturbed population. The higher genetic diversity in the disturbed population was associated with a higher contribution of sexual reproduction to population persistence. This suggests that both the level of disturbances and the reproductive strategy for population persistence contributed significantly to population genetic diversity at the study sites. According to the analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA), 76% genetic variation was attributable to differences among individuals within populations. The observed genetic differentiation (FST = 0.241) among Z. marina populations at the study sites appeared to result from reduced meadow size, increased genetic drift, and a high incidence of asexual reproduction. Increased population genetic diversity can enhance resistance and resilience to environmental disturbances; thus, this investigation of seagrass population genetics provides valuable new insights for the conservation, management, and restoration of seagrass habitats.
Effects of two frequencies of vibration on the maxillary canine distalization rate and RANKL and OPG secretion: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Siriphan Natchanon , Leethanakul Chidchanok , Thongudomporn Udom 
Published: February 2019

Structured AbstractObjectivesTo investigate the effects of 30 and 60 Hz vibratory stimulus on canine distalization and RANKL and OPG secretion.Setting and Sample PopulationSixty patients requiring canine distalization at the Orthodontic Clinic, Prince of Songkla University.Materials and MethodsPatients were randomly assigned to 30 Hz vibration (n = 20), 60 Hz vibration (n = 20), or the control group (n = 20). Modified electric toothbrushes were used to apply vibration to the randomly selected canine for 20 min/day by the investigator combined with 60 cN continuous distalization force from day 1 to day 7. RANKL and OPG were analysed before (T1) and 24 hours (T2), 48 hours (T3) and 7 days (T4) after initiation of distalization. From day 8, vibratory devices were used by the subjects at home. Rate of canine distalization (T1 to 3 months after initiation [T5]) was calculated. Kruskal‐Wallis tests were used for multiple comparisons (significance level, 0.05).ResultsCanine distalization rate was not different between groups (median; 0.82, 0.87, and 0.83 mm/month for 30, 60 Hz, and control group, respectively; P > 0.05). No within‐ or between‐group differences in RANKL and OPG were observed (P > 0.05), except RANKL on the compression side of the control group was significantly higher at T2, T3 and T4 than T1 (P < 0.001).ConclusionIn the clinic, 30 and 60 Hz vibratory stimulus have no additive effect on rate of canine distalization rate, RANKL and OPG secretion or RANKL/OPG ratio.
Lipid loses and barrier function modifications of the brown‐to‐white hair transition
Authors: Oliver Marc A. , Marti Meritxell , Coderch Luisa , Carrer Victor , Kreuzer Martin , Barba Clara 
Published: February 2019

AbstractBackgroundThe main objective of this study was to determine the lipid profile of brown and white Caucasian hair fibres and the effects of lipids on the properties of fibres.Materials and MethodsTo determine the structures of white and brown hair lipid bilayers, cross sections of fibres of both hair types were examined using synchrotron‐based μ‐FTIR mapping. Dynamic vapour sorption (DVS) analyses were also performed to determine the differences in the barrier function of both fibres.ResultsSpatial identification of lipids showed that a great amount of lipids was present in the medulla of fibres of both hair types, but important differences were also observed between cuticles of the different fibres. The cuticle of a white hair fibre showed a significant decrease in its lipid content, but did not show differences in the lateral packing order with respect to the cuticle of a brown hair fibre. The cortex and medulla of the white hair fibre also exhibited a significant decrease in its lipid content but with a higher lateral packing order than brown hair. Using DVS analysis, it was found that the water dynamics of white hair fibres differed from those of brown hair fibres, showing a decrease in their total capacity to absorb water and an increase in the velocity of the exchange of water with the environment.ConclusionThe results of both techniques demonstrated a high correlation between the characteristics of the lipids located in the cuticle and the water dynamics of the fibres.
Red blood cell alloimmunization and minor red blood cell antigen phenotypes in transfused Ghanaian patients with sickle cell disease
Authors: Boateng Lilian A. , Campbell Andrew D. , Davenport Robertson D. , Osei‐Akoto Alex , Hugan Sheri , Asamoah Akwasi , Schonewille Henk 
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUNDThe routine pretransfusion investigations in Southern Ghana involve only ABO‐D blood group typing and ABO compatibility testing without screening for irregular red blood cell (RBC) antibodies. The prevalence and specificities of RBC antibodies and frequencies of most minor blood group antigens in transfused patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) in Ghana are not known and are the objectives of this study.STUDY DESIGN AND METHODSThis was a cross‐sectional study that investigated transfused patients with SCD for the presence of irregular RBC antibodies and Rhesus, Kell, Duffy, Kidd, and Ss antigens.RESULTSFrom a total of 154 patients (median age, 9 years), 10 patients (6.5%) possessed 13 antibodies, predominantly against D, C, and E antigens. In three patients, the antibodies (anti‐D, anti‐D + C, and anti‐C + e) were against antigens they possessed by serology. Genotyping showed that two of these patients had variant RHCE genes that encode for weak and partial e antigens and one patient had a partial RHC gene. Frequencies of most RBC antigens were comparable with frequencies established among the African American population; however, K–k– and Jk(a–b–) phenotypes were more frequent and were present in 21% and 17% of patients, respectively.CONCLUSIONThe prevalence of RBC alloimmunization in transfused Ghanaian patients with SCD was 6.5% and the majority of antibodies were against antigens of the Rh system. Our findings stress the need to include pretransfusion testing for RBC antibodies in patients with SCD, to improve transfusion safety.