bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Synergism between gabapentin–tramadol in experimental diabetic neuropathic pain
Authors: Miranda Hugo F. , Sierralta Fernando , Aranda Nicolas , Poblete Paula , Noriega Viviana , Prieto Juan C. 
Published: August 2018

AbstractNeuropathic pain is associated with several conditions such as surgery, cancer, and diabetes and can be induced experimentally. Among the drugs used as monotherapy are gabapentin and tramadol. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the coadministration of gabapentin and tramadol, by isobolographic analysis, in three different algesiometric assays in experimental diabetic neuropathic pain induced by streptozocin in mice. In all the behavioral tests, gabapentin or tramadol produced a dose‐dependent antinociception and their coadministration resulted in a positive interaction. This effect can be explained by principles of multimodal analgesia, whereby the different mechanisms of action of each drug contribute to the combined effect in a supra‐additive manner. The findings of the present study suggest that the combination of gabapentin and tramadol could be a useful strategy for the treatment of pain induced by diabetic neuropathy.
Structural basis for prolidase deficiency disease mechanisms
Authors: Wilk Piotr , Uehlein Monika , Piwowarczyk Rafal , Dobbek Holger , Mueller Uwe , Weiss Manfred S. 
Published: August 2018

Prolidase is a metallopeptidase that cleaves iminodipeptides containing a proline (Pro) or hydroxyproline (Hyp) residue at their C‐terminal end. The disease prolidase deficiency (PD) is a rare recessive human disorder characterized by reduced prolidase activity. PD manifests itself by a wide range of severe clinical symptoms, most commonly as skin ulceration, recurrent infections of the respiratory tract, and mental retardation. Several mutations in the PEPD gene have been identified that are responsible for the loss or the reduction of prolidase activity. In contrast, the structural basis of enzyme inactivation has so far remained elusive. In this study, we present high resolution crystal structures of a number of human prolidase (HsProl) variants, in which single amino acids are either substituted by others or deleted. The observed implications of the mutations on the three‐dimensional structure of HsProl are reported and discussed and related to their enzymatic activity. The resulting structures may be divided into four groups depending on the presumed effect of the corresponding mutations on the reaction mechanism. The four possible inactivation mechanisms, which could be elucidated, are disruption of the catalytic Mn2(OH−)‐center, introduction of chain disorder along with the displacement of important active site residues, rigidification of the active site, and flexibilization of the active site.DatabaseAll refined structure coordinates as well as the corresponding structure factor amplitudes have been deposited in the PDB under the accession numbers 5MBY, 5MBZ, 5MC0, 5MC1, 5MC2, 5MC3, 5MC4, 5MC5, 6H2P, 6H2Q.
Micropapillary pattern in pure mucinous carcinoma of the breast – does it matter or not?
Authors: Xu Xiaoli , Bi Rui , Shui Ruohong , Yu Baohua , Cheng Yufan , Tu Xiaoyu , Yang Wentao 
Published: August 2018

AimsPure mucinous carcinoma (PMC) of the breast is a low‐grade cancer. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the prognostic significance of micropapillary structures in breast PMC.Methods and resultsSeventy‐five patients with breast PMC were recruited. All haematoxylin and eosin (H&)‐stained slides were reviewed, and clinicopathological features including age, tumour size, growth pattern, nuclear grade, histological grade, lymph node (LN) status, immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining of hormone receptor, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) expression and Ki‐67 proliferation index were analysed. Fluorescence in‐situ hybridisation (FISH) was used to verify the amplification of the HER2 gene in IHC 2+ cases. Seventy‐one cases of PMC were followed‐up from 18 to 110 months (median = 68 months). All PMC patients were female, aged 31–83 years (median = 57 years). All PMCs were nuclear grades 1 or 2. Oestrogen receptor was positive in all cases (100%) and progesterone receptor was positive in 68 cases (90.7%). There was no 3+ staining or gene amplification of HER2. Four patients had axillary LN metastasis (5.7%). Micropapillae were observed in 60 cases (80%) with varied percentages, and divided into five groups: 0%, <20%, 20–49%, 50–89% and ≥90%, with 15 (20%), 15 (20%), 17 (22.7%), 17 (22.7%) and 11 (14.7%) cases in each. Follow‐up results showed that neither recurrence nor distant metastasis occurred in all PMCs. Statistical analysis revealed that only larger tumour size was correlated significantly with LN metastasis (P < 0.05).ConclusionsThe presence of nuclear grades 1 or 2 micropapillae, irrespective of the percentage, had no significant relationship with LN metastasis and patients’ survival of PMC.
Use of stainless steel crowns to restore primary molars in Germany: Questionnaire‐based cross‐sectional analysis
Authors: Santamaría Ruth Madeleyne , Pawlowitz Laura , Schmoeckel Julian , Alkilzy Mohammad , Splieth Christian Heinz 
Published: August 2018

AbstractBackgroundStainless steel crowns (SSCs) have shown substantial clinical success and are the restoration of choice to treat multisurface carious primary molars.AimTo evaluate the use of and views on SSCs for treating primary molars in Germany.MethodsThis is a questionnaire‐based cross‐sectional study, which assessed the views of dentists and dental schools on the use of SSCs (conventional and the Hall Technique [HT]) in Germany. Dentists were randomly selected (n = 267) and contacted by telephone, and a self‐administered questionnaire was sent to all German dental schools (n = 27).ResultsA total of 104 (39%) dentists agreed to participate. The majority of respondents (66%) do not use SSCs, being the main drawbacks: technique complexity (29%) and aesthetic concerns (23%). The majority of respondents (77%) were not familiar with the HT. The response rate from the universities was 85%. In 96% of the dental schools, the value of using SSCs is taught; however, in 27%, no practical training is provided. In addition, the dental schools’ questionnaire revealed that the HT was known (91%), but neither taught to nor used for most of the dental students (76%).ConclusionIndependent of the technique used, SSCs are considerably underutilized in the dental practice in Germany, although SSCs are well accepted by the universities, however, predominantly using the conventional approach.
Fabrication of 0.24Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3‐0.42Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3‐0.34PbTiO3 transparent ceramics by conventional sintering technique
Authors: Fujii Ichiro , Nakashima Saki , Wada Takahiro 
Published: August 2018

Abstract0.24Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3‐0.42Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3‐0.34PbTiO3 transparent ceramics were fabricated by a conventional sintering technique. Through optimization of sintering conditions of calcination and sintering temperatures and time, the obtained ceramics showed high optical transmittance of 53% and 71% at light wavelengths of 1300 and 2000 nm, respectively. The ceramics showed a rhombohedral to tetragonal phase transition at ~120°C and a tetragonal to cubic phase transition at 222°C. These transition temperatures were higher than those of 0.67Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)‐0.33PbTiO3 ceramics. In addition, the ceramics had a ferroelectric hysteresis loop, a large piezoelectric constant d33 of 407 pC/N, and a planar electromechanical coupling factor kp of 52%. These results suggest that the transparent ceramics may be used as a temperature‐stable, linear electro‐optic material.
Evolutionary and ecological success is decoupled in mammals
Authors: Faurby Søren , Antonelli Alexandre 
Published: August 2018

AbstractAimTo identify which factors distinguish ecologically successful mammalian clades (i.e., clades with a large combined range size) from less successful ones.LocationGlobal.MethodsWe estimated the total range sizes for each individual mammalian subfamily and used phylogenetic regressions to identify the relative importance of factors related to colonization ability (body size and niche width) and adaptability (rate of evolution of body size and rate of evolution of climatic preference) in determining these ranges. We then estimated the importance of the same factors on the variation in diversification rate within mammals.ResultsWe found strong support for a link between total range size and traits related to colonization ability. In particular, we found larger total range sizes among clades containing larger bodied species and clades with wider climatic niche width, while we did not find support for any predictors related to adaptability being linked to total range size. We also found that traits related to increased range size were associated with reduced diversification rate.Main ConclusionsRange size for mammalian clades is mainly predicted by colonization ability, suggesting that most clades are limited by dispersal rather than their ability to adapt to new environments. The most ecologically successful (i.e., most widespread) mammalian clades tend to possess traits that reduce geographical isolation among populations, but the same traits tend to decrease diversification rates. Our results unveil a decoupling between evolutionary and ecological success in mammals.
microRNA Let‐7b: A Novel treatment for endometriosis
Authors: Sahin Cagdas , Mamillapalli Ramanaiah , Yi Kyong W. , Taylor Hugh S. 
Published: August 2018

AbstractEndometriosis is an oestrogen‐dependent, chronic inflammatory disease that affects 10% of reproductive‐aged women. Current treatment options depend on female sex steroid hormone modulation; however, all have side effects and are not useful in women who want to conceive. microRNAs treatments have provided promising results for some chronic diseases and cancers. We have previously shown the microRNA Let‐7b is repressed in endometriosis and that loss of Let‐7 contributes to the pathophysiology of the disease. Here, we propose using microRNA Let‐7b for the treatment of endometriosis in a murine model. Endometriosis was treated using microRNA Let‐7b or a scrambled control microRNA. Let‐7b treatment resulted in reduced endometriosis lesion size. Decreased gene expression was noted in several genes known to promote endometriosis growth including ER‐α, ER‐ß, Cyp19a, KRAS 4A, KRAS 4B and IL‐6. These results indicate that microRNA Let‐7b has a pleiotropic role in endometriosis pathophysiology affecting oestrogen signalling, inflammation and growth factor receptors. Local treatment of endometriosis with Let‐7b is a promising therapy for endometriosis that simultaneously affects multiple pathways driving endometriosis without systemic hormonal side effects.
Impact of spinal needle type on postdural puncture headache among women undergoing Cesarean section surgery under spinal anesthesia: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Lee Sang IL , Sandhu Shabaaz , Djulbegovic Benjamin , Mhaskar Rahul S 
Published: August 2018

AbstractObjectiveSpinal anesthesia is the most frequently performed anesthesia for cesarean section. The American Society of Anesthesiology recommends using pencil‐point spinal needles (SNs) over cutting‐bevel SNs to reduce postdural puncture headache (PDPH) in their practice guidelines for obstetric anesthesia. However, there is no meta‐analysis addressing the impact of the type of SNs on PDPH among women undergoing Cesarean section surgery.MethodsWe conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis including randomized controlled trials comparing the incidence of PDPH of pencil‐point SNs with cutting‐bevel SNs in patients undergoing Cesarean section with spinal anesthesia. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and CINAHL without using any language and time restrictions were performed.ResultsA total of 4936 patients from 20 studies (31 comparisons) were included. Pencil‐point SN leads to reduced PDPH (risk ratio [RR] 0.33, 95% confidence intervals [CI] 0.25 to 0.45) and reduced requirement of epidural blood patch (RR = 0.21, 95% CI 0.09 to 0.51) compared to cutting‐bevel SN. The incidence of anesthesia failure, non‐PDPH, backache, and other adverse effects was not statistically significantly difference between the two SNs. Overall quality of evidence was moderate to low.ConclusionsUsing pencil‐point SN appears to be beneficial for preventing PDPH in patients undergoing Cesarean section without increasing any potential adverse effects. Further research addressing the specific gauge of pencil‐point SNs, which might further reduce the incidence of PDPH is highly desired.
The case for a meta‐nosological investigation of pragmatic disease definition and classification
Authors: Livingstone‐Banks Jonathan 
Published: August 2018

AbstractNosology is the science of defining and classifying diseases. Meta‐nosology is the study of how we do this, on what principles nosological practices are based, the quality of the resulting medical taxonomy, and primarily whether/how diseases can be defined better than they are now. In modern Western medicine, there are a wide variety of ways in which diseases are defined and categorized. Examples include by the symptoms they present with (syndromic), their underlying causes (etiological), the biological mechanisms involved (pathogenetic), available treatments, historical precedent, and through diagnostic exclusion. Here, I explore the hypothesis that how we define diseases has an impact on how (and how effectively) we research and treat them. I explore the philosophical implications of this thesis and suggest a direction that the underlying metaphysics of disease definition might follow. I conclude that further research is warranted into whether our current disease definitions could be improved upon.
Gamma‐aminobutyric acid receptor type B agonist baclofen inhibits acid‐induced excitation of secondary peristalsis but not heartburn sensation
Authors: Wong Ming‐Wun , Hung Jui‐Sheng , Liu Tso‐Tsai , Yi Chih‐Hsun , Lei Wei‐Yi , Chen Chien‐Lin 
Published: August 2018

AbstractBackground and AimAcute esophageal acid infusion promotes distension‐induced secondary peristalsis. The gamma‐aminobutyric acid receptor type B (GABA‐B) receptors activation inhibits secondary peristalsis. This study aimed to test the hypothesis whether acid excitation of secondary peristalsis can be influenced by baclofen.MethodsSecondary peristalsis was performed with intra‐esophageal slow and rapid air injections in 13 healthy subjects. Direct esophageal infusion of 0.1 N HCl following pretreatment with placebo or baclofen was randomly performed at least 1 week apart. Symptom intensity, distension thresholds, and peristaltic parameters were determined and compared between each study protocol.ResultsThe intensity of heartburn symptom in response to esophageal acid infusion was significantly greater with baclofen than the placebo (P = 0.002). The threshold volume of secondary peristalsis during slow air injections in response to acid infusion was significantly greater with baclofen than the placebo (P = 0.001). Baclofen significantly increased the threshold volume of secondary peristalsis during rapid air injections in response to acid infusion (P = 0.001). The frequency of secondary peristalsis in response to acid infusion was significantly decreased by baclofen as compared with the placebo (P = 0.001). Baclofen significantly decreased peristaltic amplitudes in response to acid infusion during rapid air injections (P = 0.007).ConclusionsGamma‐aminobutyric acid receptor type B agonist baclofen inhibits acid excitation of secondary peristalsis in human esophagus, which is probably mediated by both muscular and mucosal mechanoreceptors. This work supports the evidence of potential involvement of GABA‐B receptors in negative modulation of acid excitation of esophageal perception as well as secondary peristalsis.
Preliminary randomized controlled trial of antiaging effects of l‐ascorbic acid applied in combination with no‐needle and microneedle mesotherapy
Authors: Zasada Malwina , Markiewicz Agata , Drożdż Zuzanna , Mosińska Paula , Erkiert‐Polguj Anna , Budzisz Elżbieta 
Published: August 2018

SummaryBackgroundThe epidermis is keratinized stratified squamous epithelium covered by hydro‐lipid barrier. Vitamin C is a water‐soluble antioxidant which protects skin from oxidative damage and rejuvenates photo‐aged skin. There are different options of improving active substance penetration through the stratum corneum of the epidermis. One of them is noneedle mesotherapy which is a non‐invasive rejuvenation technique involving electric pulses, electroporation, and ultrasounds. The use of these physicals factors results in deeper penetration of active ingredients. The other one is micro‐needle mesotherapy which is nonsurgical therapy, which could cause the controlled inflammation. Micro channels are formed by needles during the skin puncture, that facilitate penetration of the active ingredients.AimsThe aim of the study was to assess the efficacy of L‐ascorbic acid applied in combination with no‐needle and micro‐needle mesotherapy in anti‐aging therapy.Materials and MethodsThis study involved 17 healthy volunteers, 2.5 ml of serum containing 20% L‐ascorbic acid with hydrate from strawberries was used topically in every of 4 treatments. No‐needle mesotherapy was applied on the left half of the face while microneedle mesotherapy in combination with the same serum was performed on the right half of face.ResultsIn vivo studies confirmed the effectiveness of both methods.ConclusionThe impact of active substance on skin firmness and elasticity as well as the degree of hydration and skin tone was more efficient after micro‐needle mesotherapy.
Case for a role of the microbiome in gynecologic cancers: Clinician's perspective
Authors: Mert Ismail , Walther‐Antonio Marina , Mariani Andrea 
Published: August 2018

AbstractIn this review, we aimed to provide insight into the microbiome and its association with endometrial and ovarian cancer and their risk factors. We reviewed the literature focusing on the relationship between the microbiome and cancer, as well as the relationship between gynecologic diseases and cancers. The human body contains different kinds of microorganisms in various body parts, which is termed the microbiome. The number of microorganisms that live in and on the human body is greater than that of the human germ and somatic cells by 10‐fold. The relationship between a human and their microbiome is complex; it is also one of the most important components of homeostasis. Impairment of microbiome–host homeostasis has been associated with obesity, several cancers, preterm labor, inflammatory and allergic conditions and neurodevelopmental disorders. Direct and strong causal relationships have been established for several cancers and microorganisms, such as gastric lymphoma and Helicobacter pylori infection. Interestingly, eradication of the infectious agents has also been shown to be therapeutic. The association between cancer and the microbiome, however, is more complicated than a 1 bacteria–1 cancer model, and a shift in a healthy microbiome can result in various cancers via inflammation, change in microenvironment or DNA‐damaging toxins. The human microbiome is an integral part of homeostasis. Understanding the mechanisms that cause dysbiosis will enable us to elucidate the pathways that result in malignancy and investigate new treatment modalities.
The ‘First Generation’ in Historical Perspective: Canadian Students in the 1960s
Authors: Grayson J. P. 
Published: August 2018

AbstractOver the past few years a number of studies have focused on the disadvantages confronted by students who are the first in their families to attend university. Their liabilities include relatively low levels of preparedness, a lack of involvement in campus activities, and low levels of academic achievement. Rather than accepting the universality of this characterization, in this article, these negative characteristics and experiences were viewed as one ‘ideal type.’ Using this ideal type as a reference point, the current study focused on a period in Canadian history in which first generation students were the norm. In an examination of Glendon College, York University, located in Toronto Canada, in the mid 1960s, it was found that the experiences of the first generation did not fit the ideal type. Those who likely were the first in their families to attend university were prepared for their studies, involved in campus activities, and earned good grades. Possible explanations for this deviation from the ideal type include the buoyancy of the economy in the mid‐sixties, an expanding university sector, the size and relative intimacy of the College, the way in which high schools prepared students for university, and stringent admission requirements.
Mini‐ versus classical kissing balloon inflation in provisional technique for bifurcation intervention
Authors: Liu Jia , Chen Shaoliang , Wei Jianrui , Zeng Fang , Li Li 
Published: August 2018

ObjectivesWe compared the potential benefits of mini‐KBI (M‐KBI), an optimized kissing balloon inflation (KBI), and classical KBI (C‐KBI) in provisional bifurcation stenting.BackgroundThe long‐term clinical outcomes of C‐KBI in a provisional stenting strategy continue to be under debate due to main vessel (MV) stent deformation and overexpansion.MethodsTwelve stents were deployed in a silicone coronary bifurcation model using a provisional stenting strategy: C‐KBI (two non‐compliant balloons juxtaposed within the MV stent) was performed in six cases, and M‐KBI (the side branch (SB) balloon protruded only into the MV at the upper edge of the SB ostium) was performed in the remaining six cases, all of which were followed by proximal optimization technique POT. Stent geometry was evaluated by bench photos, videoscope, micro‐CT, microscopy, and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS).ResultsC‐KBI rectified the MV stent malapposition, but resulted in stent deformation, overexpansion and the “bottleneck” effect, which could not be rectified by POT. M‐KBI also rectified the MV stent malapposition, without notable stent deformation, overexpansion, or the “bottleneck” effect. POT optimized the MV strut apposition.ConclusionsM‐KBI, an optimized KBI, is recommended to prevent stent deformation and overexpansion and to optimize stent deployment in a provisional stenting strategy.