bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Experiences of using very low energy diets for weight loss by people with overweight or obesity: a review of qualitative research
Authors: Harper C. , Maher J. , Grunseit A. , Seimon R. V. , Sainsbury A. 
Published: August 2018

SummaryAlthough very low energy diets (VLEDs) are the most successful non‐surgical, non‐pharmacological treatment for obesity, they are underutilized, and little is known about experiences of people using VLEDs for weight loss. This systematic review synthesizes qualitative studies investigating participants' experiences of undertaking a VLED composed of total meal replacement products to lose weight. Of the 4,911 articles screened, three studies met criteria for inclusion. Thematic synthesis was used to analyse the study findings. Health and appearance were the main motivators to use a VLED for weight loss. Adherence was facilitated by group support meetings, rapid weight loss and ease of use of the diet. Being part of a clinical trial gave a sense of accountability and further reason to adhere to a VLED, and the VLED itself was well accepted by users. Barriers to adherence, such as temptations and social occasions, were overcome by avoidance and distraction strategies. In conclusion, this qualitative synthesis of users' experiences of VLEDs shows that VLEDs are well accepted and positively viewed by users. More in‐depth research could facilitate understanding of how this weight loss strategy influences the weight maintenance period, in order to facilitate better long‐term results.
Role of gut microbiota in chronic low‐grade inflammation as potential driver for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: a systematic review of human studies
Authors: van den Munckhof I. C. L. , Kurilshikov A. , ter Horst R. , Riksen N. P. , Joosten L. A. B. , Zhernakova A. , Fu J. , Keating S. T. , Netea M. G. , de Graaf J. , Rutten J. H. W. 
Published: August 2018

SummaryA hallmark of obesity is chronic low‐grade inflammation, which plays a major role in the process of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ACVD). Gut microbiota is one of the factors influencing systemic immune responses, and profound changes have been found in its composition and metabolic function in individuals with obesity. This systematic review assesses the association between the gut microbiota and markers of low‐grade inflammation in humans. We identified 14 studies which were mostly observational and relatively small (n = 10 to 471). The way in which the microbiome is analysed differed extensively between these studies. Lower gut microbial diversity was associated with higher white blood cell counts and high sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP) levels. The abundance of Bifidobacterium, Faecalibacterium, Ruminococcus and Prevotella were inversely related to different markers of low‐grade inflammation such as hsCRP and interleukin (IL)‐6. In addition, this review speculates on possible mechanisms through which the gut microbiota can affect low‐grade inflammation and thereby ACVD. We discuss the associations between the microbiome and the inflammasome, the innate immune system, bile acids, gut permeability, the endocannabinoid system and TMAO. These data reinforce the importance of human research into the gut microbiota as potential diagnostic and therapeutic strategy to prevent ACVD.
The oral microbiome in oral lichen planus during a 1‐year randomized clinical trial
Authors: Kragelund Camilla , Keller Mette Kirstine 
Published: August 2018

AbstractBackgroundSeveral recent studies have investigated the oral bacteriome in oral lichen planus (OLP), but longitudinal changes in microbiome have not been investigated.ObjectiveTo study the bacteriome and mycobiome in OLP over a 1‐year period and the impact of topical treatment.Material and methodsSamples from 22 symptomatic OLP patients from a double‐blinded, randomized intervention study were collected over a 1‐year course at five visits. Bacterial and fungal abundances were investigated through lesional cytobrush (CB) and full mouthwash (MW). Initially, all patients received conventional (antimycotic or steroid) and probiotic or placebo treatment.ResultsThe microbial composition differed between the MW and CB samples. During the study period, the microbial composition was individual, with pronounced variability between visits. Patients grouped according to initial conventional treatment. During the study period, unidirectional change in the bacteriome was seen in the antimycotic group, whereas the mycobiome was stable. Malassezia restricta was the most abundant fungus.ConclusionsThe microbial composition of MW and CB differs in OLP. CB composition is less influenced by conventional and probiotic intervention. Initial antimycotic treatment influenced the bacteriome during the 1‐year period. How the oral microbiome in health and disease is influenced by individual variability of fungi and bacteria, and Malassezia needs further investigation.
Ultrastructural analysis of collagen fibril diameter distribution in cleft lip
Authors: Khan Mohammad Faisal J. , Little Julian , Nag Tapas Chandra , Mossey Peter Anthony , Autelitano Luca , Meazzini Maria Costanza , Merajuddin Ahmed , Singh Anuraag , Rubini Michele 
Published: August 2018

AbstractObjectiveA preliminary study to determine collagen fibril diameter (CF‐ED) distribution on medial and lateral sides of cleft lip (CL).Material and MethodsTissue samples from medial and lateral sides of CL were fixed in 2.5% glutaraldehyde and 1% osmium tetroxide and embedded in Araldite CY212 resin for transmission electron microscopy. The analysis of CF‐ED was performed using the ImageJ program. To characterize the packaging of collagen fibrils (CFs) in the two tissues, we estimated the collagen number density (CF‐ND) and fibril‐area‐fraction (FAF). Differences in measurements across the two sides were calculated using Wilcoxon signed‐rank test.ResultsThe CF‐ED was statistically significantly (p < 0.001) smaller on the medial side (45.69 ± 7.89 nm) than on the lateral side (54.18 ± 7.62 nm). The medial side had a higher CF‐ND and a higher percentage of FAF than the lateral side.ConclusionOur finding of a smaller CF‐ED and higher CF‐ND and FAF for the medial side suggests possible differences in size and distribution of CFs between medial and lateral sides of CL. This finding provides knowledge toward underlying tissue biomechanics that may help reconstruction of perioral tissue scaffolds, ultimately resulting in better treatment of patients with oral clefts.
Relationship between body mass index and outcomes for patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Chong , Pan Yuesong , Xu Qiaoshi , Li Bo , Kim Kyojin , Mao Minghui , Li Jinzhong , Qin Lizheng , Li Hua , Han Zhengxue , Feng Zhien 
Published: August 2018

AbstractObjectiveThe purpose of our study was to investigate body mass index (BMI) as a prognostic factor and to examine the relationship between pretreatment BMI and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) outcomes in northern Chinese patients.MethodsThis retrospective study enrolled 633 patients with OSCC who underwent surgery between 2004 and 2014.ResultsMost baseline characteristics (gender, sites, smoking history, comorbidity, hypertension, T stage, clinical features, perineural invasion, flap reconstruction) were differentiated by BMI groups. Overall, the Kaplan–Meier curves indicated no significant relationship between BMI and disease‐free survival (DFS) or disease‐specific survival (DSS). Interestingly, obese patients exhibited higher risks of recurrence and death than normal‐weight patients (DFS: HR: 1.86, 95% CI: 1.16–2.96; DSS: HR: 2.04, 95% CI: 1.08–3.86). However, postoperative complications occurred more frequently in underweight patients than in normal‐weight patients.ConclusionsObesity may contribute to a higher recurrence rate and a worse prognosis in OSCC patients than in normal‐weight patients in northern China. However, underweight patients have a higher risk of postoperative complications.
Predictive values of alpha‐gal IgE levels and alpha‐gal IgE: Total IgE ratio and oral food challenge‐proven meat allergy in a population with a high prevalence of reported red meat allergy
Authors: Mabelane Tshegofatso , Basera Wisdom , Botha Maresa , Thomas Heidi Facey , Ramjith Jordache , Levin Michael E. 
Published: August 2018

AbstractBackgroundSevere meat allergy with anaphylaxis may be caused by sensitization to alpha‐gal. Levels of alpha‐gal sensitization that correlate with high risk of meat allergy are currently unknown. We have identified an area with a high prevalence of reported red meat allergy which offered the opportunity to evaluate the diagnostic value of IgE antibody tests.MethodsTo determine levels of alpha‐gal IgE and alpha‐gal:total IgE ratio in a large cohort of subjects with challenge‐proven meat allergy compared with control subjects from the same environment, we conducted fieldwork assessing 131 participants who reported adverse reactions to meat, and 26 control subjects, by questionnaires, IgE sensitization to alpha‐gal and oral food challenge to beef sausage.ResultsEighty‐four participants were diagnosed with alpha‐gal allergy. Alpha‐gal IgE ranged between 0.7 and 344.5 kU/L. Alpha‐gal:total IgE ratio ranged from 0.1% to 67.6%. Logistic regression analysis showed both alpha‐gal IgE and alpha‐gal:total IgE ratio strongly correlated with meat allergy, with AUC of 0.95. The values giving the best correct classification were IgE of 2.00 kU/L and ratio of 0.75%. The value above which there is a 95% probability of meat allergy is IgE>5.5 kU/L and ratio of 2.12%.ConclusionAlpha‐gal allergy in a population with a high prevalence of reported red meat allergy showed a more rapid onset of symptoms than previously described and a high prevalence of isolated subjective gastrointestinal manifestations. Cutoff values are described for levels of sensitization to alpha‐gal IgE and alpha‐gal:total IgE ratio that are highly likely to result in clinically significant meat allergy.
Spatial Transmission Models: A Taxonomy and Framework
Authors: Robertson Duncan A. 
Published: August 2018

AbstractWithin risk analysis and, more broadly, the decision behind the choice of which modeling technique to use to study the spread of disease, epidemics, fires, technology, rumors, or, more generally, spatial dynamics, is not well documented. While individual models are well defined and the modeling techniques are well understood by practitioners, there is little deliberate choice made as to thetypeof model to be used, with modelers using techniques that are well accepted in the field, sometimes with little thought as to whether alternative modeling techniques could or should be used. In this article, we divide modeling techniques for spatial transmission into four main categories: population‐level models, where a macro‐level estimate of the infected population is required; cellular models, where the transmission takes place between connected domains, but is restricted to a fixed topology of neighboring cells; network models, where host‐to‐host transmission routes are modeled, either as planar spatial graphs or where shortcuts can take place as in social networks; and, finally, agent‐based models that model the local transmission between agents, either as host‐to‐host geographical contacts, or by modeling the movement of the disease vector, with dynamic movement of hosts and vectors possible, on a Euclidian space or a more complex space deformed by the existence of information about the topology of the landscape. We summarize these techniques by introducing a taxonomy classifying these modeling approaches. Finally, we present a framework for choosing the most appropriate spatial modeling method, highlighting the links between seemingly disparate methodologies, bearing in mind that the choice of technique rests with the subject expert.
Changes in practice and perception of hepatitis C and liver transplantation: Results of a national survey
Authors: Shaffer Ashton A. , Thomas Alvin G. , Bowring Mary Grace , Van Pilsum Rasmussen Sarah E. , Cash Ayla , Kucirka Lauren M. , Alqahtani Saleh A. , Gurakar Ahmet , Sulkowski Mark S. , Cameron Andrew M. , Segev Dorry L. , Durand Christine M. 
Published: August 2018

AbstractWith new practice guidelines, it is important to understand how liver transplant (LT) centers have incorporated direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) into the management of hepatitis C virus‐infected (HCV+) candidates and recipients. To explore how DAAs have affected LT centers’ willingness to treat HCV+ candidates and recipients and to use HCV+ donors, we surveyed high volume US LT centers (11/2014‐12/2015) regarding practices for HCV+ candidates, recipients, and donors, before vs after DAAs. We used the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients to compare centers’ number of LTs, HCV+ recipients, and HCV+ donors in the years before (1/1/2012‐12/31/2013) and after (1/1/2016‐12/31/2017) survey administration. Of 80 centers contacted, 57 (71.3%) responded, representing 69.0% of the total volume of LTs in 2013. After DAAs, most centers increased treating candidates with low (≤15) model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) (85.2%), intermediate/high (>15) MELD (92.6%), and hepatocellular carcinoma (79.6%). There was consensus to treat low MELD candidates (90.8% “most of the time/always”), but less certainty for intermediate/high MELD candidates (48.2% “sometimes”). Universal post‐LT HCV treatment increased (7.4% vs 57.4%). After DAAs, 42.6% were more willing to use HCV+ donors for HCV+ candidates, and 38.9% were willing to consider using HCV+ donors for HCV− candidates. Overall, with DAAs, centers were more willing to treat HCV+ candidates and recipients and to use HCV+ donors; recent recommendations may help to guide treatment decisions for intermediate/high MELD candidates.
Socio‐epidemiological characterisation of blood donors with asymptomatic Leishmania infantum infection from three Brazilian endemic regions and analysis of the transfusional transmission risk of visceral leishmaniasis
Authors: Ferreira‐Silva M. M. , Teixeira L. A. S. , Tibúrcio M. S. , Pereira G. A. , Rodrigues V. , Palis M. , Afonso P. , Alves M. , Feitosa J. M. , Urias E. , Santos E. M. , Carvalho S. F. G. , Moraes‐Souza H. 
Published: August 2018

SUMMARYObjectivesThis study assessed the prevalence of visceral leishmaniasis in blood donors from three endemic regions in Brazil and evaluated the risk of transmission by transfusion.BackgroundDespite strong evidence of the transmission of visceral leishmaniasis through blood transfusion, the real risk, an essential condition for taking effective measures to control this serious disease, has not been determined.MethodsA multicentre study was performed in highly endemic areas. Candidates eligible for their first blood donation underwent a socio‐epidemiological interview, and blood samples were collected for enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analysis, Western blot and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Patients transfused with red blood cells or random platelet concentrates collected from these donors were also studied. The results were analysed using descriptive statistics and prevalence estimates, with significance defined as p‐values <0·05.ResultsOf the 608 eligible donors, 37 (6·1%) were positive for visceral leishmaniasis as per ELISA. The socio‐epidemiological analysis showed a significantly higher prevalence in non‐Caucasians (p = 0·008). Among 296 patients who received blood components from these donors, the pre‐transfusion seropositivity was 7·7%, and 13 patients received blood positive for Leishmania infantum. Six patients were followed up for 90 days, of which two (33·3%) had serological conversion at 60 days.ConclusionsThe results confirm the high prevalence of L. infantum seropositivity among donors in the three regions; the seroconversion in a short period of time in two of six patients suggests the possibility of transmission of the infection by transfusion.
Evaluation of immunological parameters in pit bull terrier‐type dogs with juvenile onset generalized demodicosis and age‐matched healthy pit bull terrier‐type dogs
Authors: Souza Clarissa P. , Schissler Jennifer R. , Contreras Elena T. , Dow Steven W. , Hopkins Leone S. , Coy Jonathan W. , Rosychuk Rod A.W. , Hawley Jennifer R. , Lappin Michael R. 
Published: August 2018

BackgroundJuvenile onset generalized demodicosis (JOGD) is thought to occur due to immunological abnormalities and is over‐represented in pit bull terrier‐type dogs.AnimalsTwelve pit bull terrier‐type dogs with JOGD and 12 age‐matched healthy pit bull terrier‐type dogs.ObjectiveTo investigate immunological differences between age‐matched healthy and JOGD pit bull terrier‐type dogs by flow cytometry, multiplex, molecular and serological assays.Methods and materialsFlow cytometry quantified B cells expressing MHCII or surface‐bound IgG, CD4+ T cells expressing MHCII, CD8 T cells expressing MHCII or CD11a, neutrophil and monocyte markers. Surface expression was quantified by calculating the geometric mean fluorescence index. The Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to compare median results for IL‐2, IL‐4, IL‐6, IL‐7, IL‐8, IL‐10, IL‐13, IL‐18, FOXP3, monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1, GM‐CSF, KC, IgE, IgA, IgG, IgM, C‐reactive protein, lymphocyte, neutrophil and monocyte in the groups. IFN‐gamma, IP‐10, IL‐15, IL‐31 and TNF‐alpha also were measured; however, insufficient dogs (<5) had values that were in range of the assay to allow for statistical evaluation. Significance was defined as P < 0.05.ResultsSerum concentrations of IL‐2, IL‐18 and MCP‐1 were significantly higher (P = 0.01, P = 0.01, P = 0.04) in the JOGD group. Also, IgA median value was significantly higher (P = 0.002) in pit bull terrier‐type dogs with JOGD. Flow cytometry revealed that T‐cell, neutrophil and monocyte markers were not different between groups.ConclusionsResults suggest an appropriate compensatory immune response by pit bull terrier‐type dogs in the JOGD group and do not support the explanation of global immune deficiency in these dogs.
P2X4 receptor re‐sensitization depends on a protonation/deprotonation cycle mediated by receptor internalization and recycling
Authors: Fois Giorgio , Föhr Karl J. , Kling Carolin , Fauler Michael , Wittekindt Oliver H. , Dietl Paul , Frick Manfred 
Published: August 2018

Key points
Re‐sensitization of P2X4 receptors depends on a protonation/de‐protonation cycle
Protonation and de‐protonation of the receptors is achieved by internalization and recycling of P2X4 receptors via acidic compartments
Protonation and de‐protonation occurs at critical histidine residues within the extracellular loop of P2X4 receptors
Re‐sensitization is blocked in the presence of the receptor agonist ATP
AbstractP2X4 receptors are members of the P2X receptor family of cation‐permeable, ligand‐gated ion channels that open in response to the binding of extracellular ATP. P2X4 receptors are implicated in a variety of biological processes, including cardiac function, cell death, pain sensation and immune responses. These physiological functions depend on receptor activation on the cell surface. Receptor activation is followed by receptor desensitization and deactivation upon removal of ATP. Subsequent re‐sensitization is required to return the receptor into its resting state. Desensitization and re‐sensitization are therefore crucial determinants of P2X receptor signal transduction and responsiveness to ATP. However, the molecular mechanisms controlling desensitization and re‐sensitization are not fully understood. In the present study, we provide evidence that internalization and recycling via acidic compartments is essential for P2X4 receptor re‐sensitization. Re‐sensitization depends on a protonation/de‐protonation cycle of critical histidine residues within the extracellular loop of P2X4 receptors that is mediated by receptor internalization and recycling. Interestingly, re‐sensitization under acidic conditions is completely revoked by receptor agonist ATP. Our data support the physiological importance of the unique subcellular distribution of P2X4 receptors that is predominantly found within acidic compartments. Based on these findings, we suggest that recycling of P2X4 receptors regulates the cellular responsiveness in the sustained presence of ATP.
Acupuncture at ST36 Exerts Neuroprotective Effects via Inhibition of Reactive Astrogliosis in Infantile Rats with Hydrocephalus
Authors: Tida Jacqueline Atsuko , Catalão Carlos Henrique Rocha , Garcia Camila Araújo Bernardino , dos Santos Antônio Carlos , Salmon Carlos Ernesto Garrido , Lopes Luiza da Silva 
Published: August 2018

Background Acupuncture has been associated with improved cerebral circulation, analgesia, neuromodulatory function and neurogenesis. In particular, acupuncture at ST36 has been widely used in several central nervous system (CNS) disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases. However, its effects on hydrocephalus have not been studied. Our aim was to evaluate the effects of acupuncture at ST36 on behaviour, motor development and reactive astrogliosis in infantile rats with hydrocephalus. Methods Hydrocephalus was induced in sixteen 7-day-old pup rats by injection of 20% kaolin into the cisterna magna. One day after hydrocephalus induction, acupuncture was applied once daily (for 30 min) for a total of 21 days in eight randomly selected animals (HAc group) while the remaining eight remained untreated (H group). An additional eight healthy animals were included as controls (C group). All animals were weighed daily and, from the fifth day after hydrocephalus induction, underwent MRI to determine the ventricular ratio (VR). Rats were also exposed to modified open-field tests every 3 days until the end of the experiment. After 21 days all the animals were euthanased and their brains removed for histology and immunohistochemistry. Results Hydrocephalic rats showed an increase in VR when compared with control rats (P<0.01). In addition, these animals exhibited delayed weight gain, which was attenuated with acupuncture treatment. Hydrocephalic animals treated with acupuncture performed better in open field tests (P<0.05), and had a reduction in reactive astrocyte cell density in the corpus callosum and external capsule, as assessed by GFAP (glial fibrillary acidic protein) immunohistochemistry (P<0.05). Conclusions These findings indicate that acupuncture at ST36 has a neuroprotective potential mediated, in part, by inhibition of astrogliosis.