bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association between clinicopathologic characteristics and BRAFV600E expression in Chinese patients with Langerhans cell histiocytosis
Authors: Huang Hui , Lu Tao , Sun Yuxin , Li Shan , Li Ji , Xu Kai , Feng Rui e , Xu Zuo jun 
Published: August 2019

BackgroundThe identification of V‐raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B1 (BRAF)V600E mutations has been recommended in patients with Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) with difficult diagnosis and failure of first‐line treatment. The reported frequencies of BRAFV600E mutations vary in Chinese patients with LCH.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective analysis of LCH patients with a definitive pathological diagnosis who were hospitalized between 2013 and 2017. The BRAFV600E mutations were detected with the human BRAFV600E amplification refractory mutation system‐PCR (ARMS‐PCR) kit from the collected tissue samples.ResultsThis study consisted of 46 male (68.7%) and 21 female (31.3%) patients, with a mean age of 29.1 years (range, 2–76 years). Most were adults (45/67.2%) with the multisysytem‐LCH (MS‐LCH) disease subtype (49/61.3%). The overall frequency of BRAFV600E mutations was 22.4% (15 of 67 patients), confirmed by PCR analysis. These mutations were not closely correlated with age (nonadults vs. adults = 5/22.7% vs. 10/22.2%, P = 0.54), gender (female vs. male = 9/19.6% vs. 6/28.6%, P = 0.61), LCH classification type (single system: MS‐risk organ+: MS‐risk organ− = 3/16.7%: 12:28.6%: 0, P = 0.19) or prognosis (cured: improved/stable: exacerbated: died = 4/44.4%: 19.2%: 20%: 0, P = 0.37). There were 33 patients (49.2%) with lung involvement, and 12 patients (36.3%) underwent lung biopsies; after screening, four patients were diagnosed with solitary pulmonary LCH, all of whom were negative for BRAFV600E mutations.ConclusionThe BRAFV600E mutation rate in patients with LCH was lower than those reported in other studies. In addition, BRAFV600E mutations might not be correlated with age, gender, LCH classification type or prognosis for Chinese cases.
Synthetic cannabinoids and their impact on neurodevelopmental processes
Authors: Alexandre João , Carmo Helena , Carvalho Félix , Silva João Pedro 
Published: August 2019

AbstractCannabinoids comprise a broad group of psychoactive substances that activate endogenous cannabinoid (EC) receptors (ie, CB1R and CB2R), altering neurotransmitter release in the brain. The importance of their regulatory role in different biological processes has prompted the development of synthetic cannabinoids (SCs), substantially more potent than tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, the main psychoactive substance of cannabis). Although SCs were primarily designed given their therapeutic applications, their recreational use has become a major public health concern due to several reports of severe intoxications and deaths. SCs have favored increased popularity over recent years due to their intensified psychoactive effects, compared with THC, turning regular cannabis users into SCs. Among cannabinoid users (mainly young people), pregnant women and women of child‐bearing potential (WoCBP) comprise particular risk groups, due to the potential onset of neurodevelopment disorders in the offspring (eg, schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders). Understanding the role played by cannabinoids, and the potential action of emerging SCs in the regulation of the neuronal function, especially during neuronal development, thus assumes critical relevance. Here, we review the mechanistic regulation of neuronal processes, namely during neuronal development, by the endocannabinoid system. Most important, we further develop on the potential of SCs to modulate such mechanisms and subsequently disrupt proper neurodevelopment.
Evaluation ofin vitro Streptococcus mutansandActinomyces naeslundiiattachment and growth on restorative materials surfaces
Authors: Wei CX , Leung WK , Burrow MF 
Published: August 2019

AbstractBackgroundRestorative materials have varying surface characteristics from natural tooth, which may affect oral‐bacterial surface attachment/growth. This study examined 48‐hStreptococcus mutans(Sm) orActinomyces naeslundii(An) growth on various restorative materials and tooth surfaces.MethodsThe quantity and viability of 48‐hour‐oldSmandAngrowth on polished (180‐ or 1200‐grits), saliva‐coated resin composite (RC), glass ionomer cements (GIC), resin‐modified GIC (R‐GIC), GIC containing casein phosphopeptide–amorphous calcium phosphate (3% (w/w), CPP‐ACP GIC), amalgam or tooth blocks (5 × 5 × 1 mm3) were examined.ResultsRough‐polished (arithmetical mean deviation of the assessed surface roughness profile (Ra): 1.50–1.75 µm) material surfaces revealed relatively higher proportion of inorganic, positively charged surface components ((Si + Al)/C) and greater quantity of surface attached bacteria than smooth polished (Ra: 0.20–0.35 µm) material groups (P < 0.001). LessSmandAnwere observed on tooth, and smooth polished GIC and CPP‐ACP GIC surfaces than on resin‐based materials (RC, R‐GIC) and amalgam (P ≤ 0.003). Viability ofSmwas found to be lower on amalgam surfaces (P < 0.001), whereas that ofAnappeared lower on both amalgam surfaces and rough CPP‐ACP GIC surfaces (P ≤ 0.033).ConclusionSurface roughness exerted a pronounced effect onin vitrogrowth/attachedSm/Anquantity but may not have an impact on bacteria viability. Interestingly, despite smoother surfaces of various materials tested, fewerSm/Anwere observed attaching on tooth surfaces.
Extended hypoxia‐mediated H2S production provides for long‐term oxygen sensing
Authors: Olson Kenneth R. , Gao Yan , DeLeon Eric R. , Markel Troy A. , Drucker Natalie , Boone David , Whiteman Matt , Steiger Andrea K. , Pluth Michael D. , Tessier Charles R. , Stahelin Robert V. 
Published: August 2019

AbstractAimNumerous studies have shown that H2S serves as an acute oxygen sensor in a variety of cells. We hypothesize that H2S also serves in extended oxygen sensing.MethodsHere, we compare the effects of extended exposure (24‐48 hours) to varying O2 tensions on H2S and polysulphide metabolism in human embryonic kidney (HEK 293), human adenocarcinomic alveolar basal epithelial (A549), human colon cancer (HTC116), bovine pulmonary artery smooth muscle, human umbilical‐derived mesenchymal stromal (stem) cells and porcine tracheal epithelium (PTE) using sulphur‐specific fluorophores and fluorometry or confocal microscopy.ResultsAll cells continuously produced H2S in 21% O2 and H2S production was increased at lower O2 tensions. Decreasing O2 from 21% to 10%, 5% and 1% O2 progressively increased H2S production in HEK293 cells and this was partially inhibited by a combination of inhibitors of H2S biosynthesis, aminooxyacetate, propargyl glycine and compound 3. Mitochondria appeared to be the source of much of this increase in HEK 293 cells. H2S production in all other cells and PTE increased when O2 was lowered from 21% to 5% except for HTC116 cells where 1% O2 was necessary to increase H2S, presumably reflecting the hypoxic environment in vivo. Polysulphides (H2Sn, where n = 2‐7), the key signalling metabolite of H2S also appeared to increase in many cells although this was often masked by high endogenous polysulphide concentrations.ConclusionThese results show that cellular H2S is increased during extended hypoxia and they suggest this is a continuously active O2‐sensing mechanism in a variety of cells.
Member and dentist narratives about a dental programme for the Medicaid expansion population: A content analysis
Authors: Reynolds Julie C. , Sukalski Jennifer M. C. , McKernan Susan C. , Damiano Peter C. 
Published: August 2019

AbstractObjectivesIn the United States, the 2010 Affordable Care Act's Medicaid expansion improved financial access to dental care for new Medicaid enrollees in states with Medicaid dental benefits for adults. Using an existing theoretical framework, we explored dentist and Medicaid member narratives concerning a state's redesigned dental programme for the Medicaid expansion population.MethodsData sources include two surveys conducted in 2016—one to a random sample of Medicaid members and one to private practice dentists in Iowa. A qualitative content analysis approach was used to quantify and describe themes present in open‐ended comment data.ResultsThe most common themes among Medicaid member narratives were related to oral health needs and status, availability of dentists who accept Medicaid, and Medicaid coverage for dental care. Among dentists, the programme's administrative burden was the most common theme, with coverage and reimbursement commonly cited as well. An emergent theme among both member and dentist comments was patient confusion or lack of knowledge about programme enrolment and coverage.ConclusionsMember awareness about enrolment and coverage in public dental benefit plans should be further explored to determine the impact on access to care. Effectively communicating the intent, programme design and expectations of a Medicaid programme to both providers and Medicaid members is important to the success of the programme.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in European grasslands under nutrient pollution
Authors: Ceulemans Tobias , Van Geel Maarten , Jacquemyn Hans , Boeraeve Margaux , Plue Jan , Saar Liina , Kasari Liis , Peeters Gerrit , van Acker Kasper , Crauwels Sam , Lievens Bart , Honnay Olivier 
Published: August 2019

AbstractAimOur aim was to quantify the extent to which nutrient pollution explains arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal community richness and composition.LocationEurope.Time period2014–2016.Major taxa studiedArbuscular mycorrhizal fungi.MethodsWe sampled soils of calcareous and acidic grasslands and roots of 34 host plant species across a large geographical gradient of atmospheric nitrogen deposition and soil phosphorus availability. Furthermore, we performed an independent pairwise comparison between fertilized and unfertilized grasslands in Belgium and Iceland to compare results.ResultsWe found that nitrogen deposition had a significant negative relationship to arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal richness, with a negative community threshold of 7.7 kg N/ha/year corresponding to the greatest reduction in operational taxonomic units. Additionally, we found that soil phosphorus had a significant negative relationship to mycorrhizal fungal richness.Main conclusionsOur results highlight the necessity to revisit the critical loads of atmospheric nitrogen deposition used in European environmental policy, currently set at 10–15 kg N/ha/year. Importantly, our observed threshold of 7.7 kg N/ha/year does not correspond to a critical load below which there is no environmental harm, because the least negative changes in arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities were observed at < 5 kg N/ha/year. Therefore, to avoid compromising the policy tenet of no environmental harm with respect to grassland mycorrhizal fungi, areas of zero tolerance to nitrogen pollution should be delimited. Our results also indicate that environmental policy biased towards reducing nitrogen pollution alone will fail to preserve mycorrhizal biodiversity in European grasslands. We advocate increased policy attention to avoid phosphorus enrichment, particularly through agricultural fertilization. Here too, areas of zero phosphorus input, ideally set in the currently unpolluted (or least polluted) areas, seem key for effective environmental policy, because elevated levels of soil phosphorus after phosphorus fertilization are known to be extremely persistent.
Plag1 regulates neuronal gene expression and neuronal differentiation of neocortical neural progenitor cells
Authors: Sakai Hiroshi , Fujii Yuki , Kuwayama Naohiro , Kawaji Keita , Gotoh Yukiko , Kishi Yusuke 
Published: August 2019

AbstractNeural progenitor cells (NPCs, also known as radial glial progenitors) produce neurons and then glial cells such as astrocytes during development of the mouse neocortex. Given that this sequential generation of neural cells is critical for proper brain formation, the neurogenic potential of NPCs must be precisely controlled. Here, we show that the transcription factor Plag1 plays an important role in the regulation of neurogenic potential in mouse neocortical NPCs. We found that Hmga2, a key neurogenic factor in neocortical NPCs, induces expression of the Plag1 gene. Analysis of the effects of over‐expression or knockdown of Plag1 indicated that Plag1 promotes the production of neurons at the expense of astrocyte production in embryonic neocortical cultures. Furthermore, over‐expression of Plag1 promoted and knockdown of Plag1 suppressed neuronal differentiation of neocortical NPCs in vivo. Transcriptomic analysis showed that Plag1 increases the expression of a set of neuronal genes in NPCs. Our results thus identify Plag1 as a regulator of neuronal gene expression and neuronal differentiation in NPCs of the developing mouse neocortex.
Are American homeowners more satisfied with their lives than renters?
Authors: Kuroki Masanori 
Published: August 2019

AbstractResearchers often find that homeownership is not associated with life satisfaction in the United States. Using the 2009–2010 Behavioural Risk Factor Surveillance System Survey, this study examines whether homeowners are more satisfied with their lives than renters in the following eight states: Alabama, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Nebraska, South Carolina and Wisconsin. A positive relationship between homeownership and life satisfaction (approximately 0.06 points on a 4‐point scale;p < .01) is found, even when whether respondents are worried about having enough money to pay their rent or mortgage is controlled for. However, the positive effect of homeownership declines as the local house prices increase, indicating that homeowners in expensive areas tend to be less satisfied with their lives than homeowners in more affordable areas.
Negative permittivity in titanium nitride‐alumina composite for functionalized structural ceramics
Authors: Fan Guohua , Zhao Yupeng , Xin Jiahao , Zhang Zidong , Xie Peitao , Cheng Chuanbing , Qu Yunpeng , Liu Yao , Sun Kai , Fan Runhua 
Published: August 2019

AbstractThe study on novel physical properties of structural ceramics or ceramic composites could make them more conducive to be function‐ and structure‐integrated materials. Herein, titanium nitride‐alumina (TiN–Al2O3) duplex ceramics were prepared and the dielectric spectra of the ceramics were studied from 10 MHz to 1 GHz. Negative permittivity appeared when TiN content exceeded 40 wt% due to the induced plasmonic state of massive delocalized electrons in connected TiN grain networks. Meanwhile, alternating current conduction behaviors of the duplex ceramics were discussed with percolation theory. Furthermore, the analysis of reactance by equivalent circuit models indicated that negative permittivity ceramics exhibited inductive character. This work realized negative dielectric behaviors in TiN–Al2O3duplex ceramics and would promote the study of electromagnetic functionalization in wave shielding or attenuation for structural ceramics.
Systematic review of sedentary behaviour in people with Down syndrome across the lifespan: A clarion call
Authors: Agiovlasitis Stamatis , Choi Poram , Allred Anthony T. , Xu Jian , Motl Robert W. 
Published: August 2019

AbstractBackgroundIndividuals with Down syndrome (DS) experience health disparities possibly associated with high levels of sedentary behaviour (SB). We systematically reviewed SB measurement, levels, patterns, correlates, consequences and interventions in people with DS across the lifespan.MethodWe searched these databases: Embase; PubMed; Web of Science; Scopus; CINAHL; PsycINFO; SPORTDiscus; and Cochrane Library. We included quantitative studies published in English since 1 January 1990.ResultsWe identified 17 eligible articles. Across studies, accelerometer‐determined sedentary time was 552 min/day (median: 542; range 392–680 min/day). Sedentary time appeared higher than previously reported values in the general population, especially for youth with DS. Multivariate SB correlates were primarily familial and environmental. Sedentary behaviour consequences have not been exclusively studied. Motor skills training reduced SB in youth with DS.ConclusionsSedentary behaviour research in this population is in early stages. Individuals with DS have high levels of SB that may be responsive to interventions.
Long non‐coding RNA SNHG16 regulates human aortic smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration via sponging miR‐205 and modulating Smad2
Authors: Lin Yongqing , Tian Guoping , Zhang Haifeng , Yuan Woliang , Xie Yong , Yang Ying , Wang Jingfeng , Liang Ying 
Published: August 2019

AbstractThe present study investigated the role of long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) small nucleolar RNA host gene 16 (SNHG16) in the human aortic smooth muscle cell (HASMC) proliferation and migration and explored the potential link between SNHG16 and atherosclerosis. Our results showed that platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF)‐bb treatment promoted cell proliferation and migration with concurrent up‐regulation of SNHG16 in HASMCs. Small nucleolar RNA host gene 16 overexpression promoted HASMC proliferation and migration, while SNHG16 knockdown suppressed cell proliferation and migration in PDGF‐bb‐stimulated HASMCs. The bioinformatic analyses showed that SNHG16 possessed the complementary binding sequence with miR‐205, where the interaction was confirmed by luciferase reporter assay and RNA pull‐down assay in HASMCs, and SNHG16 inversely regulated miR‐205 expression. MiR‐205 overexpression attenuated the enhanced effects of PDGF‐bb treatment on HASMC proliferation and migration. Moreover, Smad2 was targeted and inversely regulated by miR‐205, while being positively regulated by SNHG16 in HASMCs. Smad2 knockdown attenuated PDGF‐bb‐mediated actions on HASMC proliferation and migration. Both miR‐205 overexpression and Smad2 knockdown partially reversed the effects of SNHG16 overexpression on HASMC proliferation and migration. Moreover, SNHG16 and Smad2 mRNA were up‐regulated, while miR‐205 was down‐regulated in the plasma from patients with atherosclerosis. Small nucleolar RNA host gene 16 expression was inversely correlated with miR‐205 expression and positively correlated with Smad2 expression in the plasma from atherosclerotic patients. In conclusion, our data showed the up‐regulation of SNHG16 in pathogenic‐stimulated HASMCs and clinical samples from atherosclerotic patients. Small nucleolar RNA host gene 16 regulated HASMC proliferation and migration possibly via regulating Smad2 expression by acting as a competing endogenous RNA for miR‐205.
A mapping study and recommendations for a joint NGO (Think Pink) and Bahrain Government Breast Cancer project
Authors: Sprakel Julie , Carrara Helio , Manzer Bruce M. , Fedorowicz Zbys 
Published: August 2019

AbstractAimsBreast cancer within the region continues to present challenges to the healthcare services. Strategies to shed light on clinical gaps could better support country‐specific circumstances. The aims of the mapping study were to identify the gaps in the evidence base, for the management of breast cancer with relevance to Bahrain and the Gulf Region. In parallel, focusing on areas and directions of research, which are compatible with international and local clinical interests. It was envisaged that the mapping project would expose not only opportunities to improve support to the community but also illustrate the possible engagement of a government entity and a Nongovernment Organization in a private‐public partnership.MethodAn extensive literature review of local and international publications from the period between 1979 and 2015 was undertaken. Searches were conducted using free‐text terms, singularly or combined, with no limiters, to provide unrestricted retrieval of available English studies.ResultsA total of 326 citations were identified, which after deduplication provided 277 unique citations of which included 236 studies within 13 different categories, relevant to breast cancer within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).ConclusionContextualizing gaps in literature and, therefore, providing evidence‐based decisions, not only support the enduser, but better support the country‐specific challenges and burdens to healthcare. Three broad but key areas were identified after mapping of the literature, covering:screening and mammography, knowledge translation and dissemination, and lymphoedema postsurgical resection. Similar mapping projects could be undertaken by other national NGO's to better support the government and solidify the framework for a public‐private partnership.
Management of hepatic hydrothorax and effect on length of stay, mortality, cost, and 30‐day hospital readmission
Authors: Sobotka Lindsay A , Spitzer Carleen , Hinton Alice , Michaels Anthony , Hanje A James , Mumtaz Khalid , Conteh Lanla F 
Published: August 2019

AbstractBackground and AimCirrhosis‐related complications are associated with high inpatient mortality, cost, and length of stay. There is a lack of multi‐centered studies on interventions for hepatic hydrothorax and its impact on patient outcomes. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of performing thoracentesis for hepatic hydrothorax on hospital length of stay, mortality, cost, and 30‐day readmission.MethodsA retrospective analysis of the Nationwide Inpatient Sample between 2002 and 2013 and Nationwide Readmission Database during 2013 was performed including patients with a primary diagnosis of hydrothorax or pleural effusion and a secondary diagnosis of cirrhosis based on International Classification of Disease 9 codes. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the effect of thoracentesis on patient outcomes during their hospital stay.ResultsOf the 37 443 patients included from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample, 26 889 (72%) patients underwent thoracentesis. Thoracentesis was associated with a longer length of stay (4.56 days, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.40–6.72) and higher total cost ($9449, 95% CI: 3706–15 191). There was no significant difference in inpatient mortality between patients who underwent thoracentesis compared with those who did not. Of the 2371 patients included from the Nationwide Readmission Database, 870 (33%) were readmitted within 30 days. Thoracentesis was not a predictor of readmission; however, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (odds ratio: 4.89, 95% CI: 1.17–20.39) and length of stay (odds ratio: 1.02, 95% CI: 1.001–1.05) on index admission were predictors of readmission.ConclusionWhen considering treatment for hepatic hydrothorax, many factors should contribute to determining the best intervention. While performing thoracentesis may provide immediate relief to symptomatic patients, it should not be considered a long‐term intervention given that it increases hospital cost, was associated with longer length of stays, and did not improve mortality.
MATCHING SUBSIDIES AND VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS: A REVIEW
Authors: Epperson Raphael , Reif Christiane 
Published: August 2019

AbstractThis paper provides a synthesis of the experimental literature on matching subsidies in the context of charitable giving. We classify results according to four different outcome variables frequently considered in the literature and address (i) short‐term effects of linear matching, (ii) the role of the matching rate, (iii) context‐dependence of behavioural responses, (iv) the relevance of the price of giving, (v) long‐term effects and (vi) nonlinear matching schemes. Based on this comprehensive review, we highlight several avenues for future research, such as putting stronger emphasis on competition in fundraising, long‐term effects or heterogeneity in responses.