bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Repeat liver retransplantation: rationale and outcomes
Authors: Memeo Riccardo , Laurenzi Andrea , Pittau Gabriella , Sanchez‐Cabus Santiago , Vibert Eric , Adam Rene , Azoulay Daniel , Sa Cunha Antonio , Ichai Philippe , Saliba Faouzi , Samuel Didier , Cherqui Daniel , Castaing Denis 
Published: January 2016

AbstractBackgroundLiver retransplantation remains the only option for recurrent graft failure. The aim of our study is to identify predictive factors involved in patients and graft survival for patients undergoing repeat retransplantation (RRT).MethodologyFrom January 1985 to December 2012, 2940 liver transplantations were performed in 2477 patients at Paul Brousse Hospital, Villejuif, France. All patients who underwent third, fourth, and fifth transplantation were included in the study and retrospectively analyzed.ResultsIn the univariate analysis, the factors that were associated with 90‐d patient post‐operative survival were pre‐operative vasopressors support, pre‐operative extra hepatic sepsis, primary non‐function (PNF) as indication of RRT, recipient's model of end stage liver disease (MELD), urgent RRT, creatinine value at RRT, and prothrombin ratio. The multivariate logistic regression confirmed the role of systemic septic status (OR = 12.8, p = 0.01) and vasopressor drug support (OR = 4.7, p = 0.05) as predictors of post‐operative mortality. In the univariate analysis, the factors that were associated with patient 10 yr long‐term survival (were vasopressor support, systemic septic patient, PNF as indication of RRT, RRT occurred between 1985 and 1999, recipient's MELD, creatinine value at RRT, and prothrombin ratio. The multivariate logistic regression confirmed the role of systemic septic patient (OR = 6.4, p = 0.03) and the RRT between 1985 and 1999 (OR = 3.6, p = 0.05) as predictors of long‐term mortality.ConclusionRRT represent a valid alternative in selected patients. Selection should be oriented on patients needing third transplant without extra hepatic sepsis and vasoactive drug support at moment of RRT. If necessary, fourth and fifth RRT could be performed with a decision made on case‐by‐case basis, despite a high post‐operative mortality.
Mapping Value in a ‘Green’ Commodity Frontier: Revisiting Commodity Chain Analysis
Authors: Neimark Benjamin , Mahanty Sango , Dressler Wolfram 
Published: January 2016

ABSTRACTAnalysis of commodity chains has provided important insights on how power, resource and market access mediate the distribution of benefits and risks. Given this analytical potential, Commodity Chain Analysis (CCA) is now being applied to the study of biofuels and carbon markets to gain systematic insight into the circumstances, relationships and transformations involved in their production and exchange. By building on and adapting this approach to three distinct case studies (biofuels in Madagascar and forest carbon in Cambodia and Laos), this article contributes new insights on the emergence of value within market environmentalism. The analysis highlights methodological challenges in applying CCA to commodified forms of nature, and the significance of knowledge and value negotiations. All three cases illustrate that it remains highly uncertain whether or not market exchange can ultimately be realized. As in the case of traditional commodities, pre‐existing conditions of power and access shape modes of production and network configuration. Parallel and intersecting commodity networks (e.g. for land and timber) also require us to think beyond the traditional single‐commodity focus. Thus, the authors call for an expanded analytical focus in applying CCA to non‐material ‘green’ commodities which places greater emphasis on value negotiations and connections within new ‘commodity frontiers’.
Diagnostic accuracy of endoscopic features of pediatric acute gastrointestinal graft‐versus‐host disease
Authors: Hiejima Eitaro , Nakase Hiroshi , Matsuura Minoru , Honzawa Yusuke , Higuchi Hirokazu , Saida Satoshi , Umeda Katsutsugu , Hiramatsu Hidefumi , Adachi Souichi , Izawa Kazushi , Kawai Tomoki , Yasumi Takahiro , Nishikomori Ryuta , Heike Toshio 
Published: January 2016

Background and AimAcute gastrointestinal graft‐versus‐host disease (GI‐GVHD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). There are very few studies on specific endoscopic findings in pediatric acute GI‐GVHD. The aim of this retrospective case–control study was to elucidate the characteristic endoscopic findings in pediatric acute GI‐GVHD that improve the diagnostic accuracy of endoscopy.MethodsAll consecutive patients under 18 years of age who underwent allogeneic HSCT in Kyoto University Hospital from May 2003 to October 2014 were identified retrospectively. Patients who underwent GI endoscopy as a result of sustained GI symptoms were identified. Intestinal villous patterns were evaluated by magnification endoscopy with the water‐immersion technique. The patients were diagnosed with acute GI‐GVHD and non‐GVHD on the basis of biopsy histology. Endoscopic findings of the two groups were compared.ResultsOf the 171 patients who underwent HSCT, 30 underwent GI endoscopy. Of these, 17 and nine were diagnosed with acute GI‐GVHD and non‐GVHD, respectively. Compared with non‐GVHD, acute GI‐GVHD was associated significantly more often with short blunt villi in the duodenum (P = 0.013), variable defect villi and short blunt villi in the ileum (P = 0.009 and 0.035, respectively), and edema, erosion, and tortoiseshell‐like mucosae in the colon (P = 0.017, 0.023, and 0.017, respectively).ConclusionPediatric acute GI‐GVHD was associated with several characteristic features on magnifying endoscopy with the water‐immersion technique. These features will be useful for endoscopic diagnosis of pediatric acute GI‐GVHD.
Optimum bolus wizard settings in insulin pumps in children with Type 1 diabetes
Authors: Andersen A. J. B. , Ostenfeld A. , Pipper C. B. , Olsen B. S. , Hertz A. M. , Jørgensen L. K. , Høgsmose J. , Svensson J. 
Published: January 2016

AbstractAimTo evaluate current insulin pump settings in an optimally regulated paediatric population using bolus wizard.MethodsWe used a retrospective study design to analyse data from 124 children on insulin pump therapy who had optimum HbA1c levels [< 59 mmol/mol (< 7.5%)] and no history of severe hypoglycaemic events. Bolus wizard settings were used to calculate the insulin to carbohydrate factors and insulin sensitivity factors. Multiple regression analysis was used to analyse the variables associated with the calculation factors.ResultsInsulin to carbohydrate factor varied from 276 in the youngest group to 424 in the oldest group, and increased according to age. Insulin sensitivity factor was highest in the group aged 6 to < 12 years, with a value of 125. Age, amount of carbohydrates, number of boluses per day and insulin per kg were all significantly associated with both calculation factors. Furthermore, duration of insulin pump treatment was significantly associated with insulin sensitivity factor and percentage bolus/basal was significantly associated with insulin to carbohydrate factor. Gender, diabetes duration and BMI were not associated with any of the calculation factors.ConclusionOptimum insulin pump settings at pump initiation depend on both insulin requirements and use of the pump. Settings need to be individualized because the standardized calculation factors are not constant for children. There is a need to develop specific age‐ and insulin dose‐dependent calculation factors.
Drug development from the bench to the pharmacy: with special reference to dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor development
Authors: Carr R. D. 
Published: January 2016

AbstractThe dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4) inhibitor concept is an example of prospective drug design and development based upon a distinct endocrine hypothesis. The design of enzyme inhibitors is a pragmatic approach to drug design; being compatible with the identification and optimization of small molecules that have properties commensurate with oral administration, as well as acceptable drug metabolism, distribution and elimination characteristics. Glucagon‐like peptide 1 (GLP‐1), a hormone with a spectrum of favourable metabolic actions, including glucose‐dependent stimulation of insulin and inhibition of glucagon secretion, provided the endocrine basis from which the idea of using DPP‐4 inhibitors as anti‐diabetic agents was developed. The origin of the DPP‐4 inhibitor concept was inspired by the angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor approach, which succeeded in establishing a class of extensively used therapeutic agents for the treatment of cardiovascular disorders.
Left Ventricular End‐Systolic Eccentricity Index for Assessment of Pulmonary Hypertension in Infants
Authors: Abraham Sharon , Weismann Constance G. 
Published: January 2016

BackgroundPulmonary hypertension (PH) is a common problem in the neonatal intensive care unit and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to identify a quantitative echocardiographic marker of septal curvature that can be used to accurately identify PH in NICU infants with concern for PH.MethodsEchocardiograms of infants who were prematurely born and infants with persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn were performed using a defined protocol for evaluation of PH. Qualitative assessment by a single pediatric cardiologist was used as a reference standard. Qualitative and quantitative parameters of right ventricular (RV) size, pressure, and function were documented. Left ventricular end‐systolic eccentricity index (EI) was defined as the ratio of the anterior–inferior and septal–posterolateral cavity dimensions at the mid‐ventricular level.ResultsA total of 216 infants at risk for PH were included in this study. One hundred forty‐three (66%) had an interpretable tricuspid regurgitation jet velocity. While systolic septal flattening was recognized at EIs ≥ 1.15, more than half‐systemic RV pressure became apparent at EIs ≥ 1.3. Unlike qualitative assessment of septal flattening, there was high inter‐observer agreement for EIs. Quantitative parameters of RV systolic function were impaired only at EIs ≥ 1.3.ConclusionsWe suggest that EIs should be incorporated into routine protocols when there is a concern for PH in neonates. This may lead to a more reliable assessment of PH and may reduce inter‐observer variability. Correlation of EIs with invasive hemodynamic data is needed to validate our results.
The conserved genetic background for pluteus arm development in brittle stars and sea urchin
Authors: Morino Yoshiaki , Koga Hiroyuki , Wada Hiroshi 
Published: January 2016

SUMMARYEchinoderm pluteus larvae are considered a classical example of convergent evolution that occurred in sea urchins and brittle stars. Several genes are known to be involved in the development of pluteus arms in sea urchins, including fgfA, pax2/5/8, pea3, otp, wnt5, and tet. To determine whether the convergent evolution of larval arms also involves these genes in brittle stars, their expression patterns were determined in brittle star. We found that all genes showed similar expression in the arms of ophiopluteus to that seen in echinopluteus, suggesting that convergent evolution of pluteus arms occurred by recruitment of a similar set of genes. This may be explained by our observation that some of these genes are also expressed in the spine rudiment of direct‐type development sea urchins. We propose an evolutionary scenario wherein the pluteus arms of both echinopluteus and ophiopluteus were acquired by independent co‐options of the genetic module responsible for the projection of the adult skeleton.
The role of microRNA in myelodysplastic syndromes: beyond DNA methylation and histone modification
Authors: Milunović Vibor , Mandac Rogulj Inga , Planinc‐Peraica Ana , Bulycheva Ekaterina , Kolonić Ostojić Slobodanka 
Published: January 2016

AbstractMyelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are heterogeneous group of hematologic disorders of mostly elderly and based on distinct clinical phenotypes. Current paradigm of their pathogenesis relies on somatic gene mutations combined with the predisposing defective osteohematopoietic niche, but due to the breakout in epigenetic research scientific focus has steered toward two most common epigenetic modifications: methylation mechanisms and histone modification. At the same time, relatively few studies have been undertaken regarding the third epigenetic pathway – microRNAs – in MDS. The main aim of this review is to provide the basics of microRNA biology and function in oncogenesis, showing the complexity of mechanisms behind this single‐stranded 22 nucleotides long RNA molecule, with further focus on its implication in MDS pathology and clinical context. By extensive literature search, we have shown enough evidence for their deregulation in MDS. However, few studies have addressed the issue on pathogenic events in MDS and its association with specific microRNAs. Preliminary research in clinical setting has shown the possible utility of microRNAs in terms of prognosis and therapy, although we are only beginning to understand various implications of microRNAs in MDS and further extensive research is warranted to answer multiple questions arising from interconnection of this epigenetic mechanism in MDS.
Thrombophilic risk of individuals with rare compound factor V Leiden and prothrombin G20210A polymorphisms: an international case series of 100 individuals
Authors: Lim Ming Y. , Deal Allison M. , Kim Steven , Musty Michael D. , Conard Jacqueline , Simioni Paolo , Dutrillaux Fabienne , Eid Suhair S. , Middeldorp Saskia , Halbmayer Walter M. , Boneu Bernard , Moia Marco , Moll Stephan 
Published: January 2016

AbstractThe risk of thrombosis in individuals with rare compound thrombophilias, homozygous factor V Leiden (FVL) plus heterozygous prothrombin G20210A (PTM), homozygous PTM plus heterozygous FVL, and homozygous FVL plus homozygous PTM, is unknown. We identified, worldwide, individuals with these compound thrombophilias, predominantly through mailing members of the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis. Physicians were sent a clinical questionnaire. Confirmatory copies of the genetic results were obtained. One hundred individuals were enrolled; 58% were female. Seventy‐one individuals had a venous thrombosis (includes superficial and deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism), 4 had an arterial thrombosis and 6 had both. Nineteen individuals had never had a thrombotic event. Thrombosis‐free survival curves demonstrated that 50% of individuals had experienced a thrombotic event by 35 yrs of age, while 50% had a first venous thromboembolic event (VTE; includes all venous thrombosis except superficial thrombosis) by 41 yrs of age; 38.2% of first VTEs were unprovoked. 37% of patients had at least one VTE recurrence. Seventy percent of first pregnancies carried to term and not treated with anticoagulation were thrombosis‐free. In conclusion, patients with these rare compound thrombophilias are not exceedingly thrombogenic, even though they have a substantial risk for VTE.
Variable prey development time suppresses predator–prey cycles and enhances stability
Authors: Cronin James T. , Reeve John D. , Xu Dashun , Xiao Mingqing , Stevens Heidi N. 
Published: January 2016

AbstractAlthough theoretical models have demonstrated that predator–prey population dynamics can depend critically on age (stage) structure and the duration and variability in development times of different life stages, experimental support for this theory is non‐existent. We conducted an experiment with a host–parasitoid system to test the prediction that increased variability in the development time of the vulnerable host stage can promote interaction stability. Host–parasitoid microcosms were subjected to two treatments: Normal and High variance in the duration of the vulnerable host stage. In control and Normal‐variance microcosms, hosts and parasitoids exhibited distinct population cycles. In contrast, insect abundances were 18–24% less variable in High‐ than Normal‐variance microcosms. More significantly, periodicity in host–parasitoid population dynamics disappeared in the High‐variance microcosms. Simulation models confirmed that stability in High‐variance microcosms was sufficient to prevent extinction. We conclude that developmental variability is critical to predator–prey population dynamics and could be exploited in pest‐management programs.
Description of a technique for orthograde endodontic treatment of equine cheek teeth with apical infections
Authors: Lundström T. , Wattle O. 
Published: January 2016

SummaryAn orthograde endodontic method, similar to that used in human dentistry, is described for use on endodontically diseased permanent cheek teeth in horses. The technique has been adapted to meet the anatomical and physiological differences between hypsodont and brachyodont teeth and is performed in sedated horses. The techniques of debriding the pulp cavity and use of dental materials which fulfil the requirements for equine teeth are presented here. The results of this technique appear to be promising but have yet to be evaluated in a peer‐reviewed study. By using orthograde endodontic therapy on sedated horses it is now possible to save endodontically diseased permanent cheek teeth.
Influences of microstructure and orientation on fracture toughness of intermetallic phase Al2Cu‐based alloy under directional solidification
Authors: Gao K. , Li S. , Song S. , Zhang R. , Guo X. , Fu H. 
Published: January 2016

AbstractThe influences of microstructures and orientations on fracture toughness of intermetallic phase Al2Cu‐based alloys during different directionally solidified rates were investigated. With solidified rates increasing, the patterns of Al2Cu phase dendrite turned from faceted V‐shaped morphology to elongated plate‐shaped morphology and discontinuous complex morphology in longitudinal section. Moreover, the deviation angle between the growth direction of Al2Cu dendrite and the heat flow direction was increasing. Because of fine grain toughening and crack propagation path deflected by orientation, the fracture toughness of Al2Cu‐based alloy was improved. The experimental results showed that improving the brittleness could be well achieved under higher directionally solidified rate.
The Changing Profile of Helicobacter pylori Antibiotic Resistance in Singapore: A 15‐Year Study
Authors: Ang Tiing Leong , Fock Kwong Ming , Ang Daphne , Kwek Andrew Boon Eu , Teo Eng Kiong , Dhamodaran Subbiah 
Published: January 2016

AbstractBackgroundAntibiotic resistance is an important cause of H. pylori treatment failure. This study aimed to examine the change in H. pylori antibiotic resistance profile in Singapore over the course of 15 years.Materials and methodsThe study period was from 2000 to 2014. Gastric mucosal biopsies obtained from H. pylori‐positive patients were cultured. Antibiotic susceptibility to metronidazole, clarithromycin, levofloxacin, tetracycline, and amoxicillin was tested. The change in resistance rates over time was analyzed.ResultsA total of 708 H. pylori isolates were cultured. There was a significant increase in resistance rates for metronidazole (2000–2002: 24.8%; 2012–2014: 48.2%; p < .001), clarithromycin (2000–2002: 7.9%; 2012–2014: 17.1%; p = .022), and levofloxacin (2000–2002: 5%; 2012–2014: 14.7%; p = .007). The resistance rates for tetracycline (2000–2002: 5%; 2012–2014: 7.6%) and amoxicillin (2000–2002: 3%; 2012–2014: 4.4%) remained stable. Increase in dual (2000–2002: 6.9%; 2012–2014: 9.4%; p = .479) and triple antibiotic resistance rates (2000–2002: 0; 2012–2014: 7.6%; p < .001) were observed. Overall, the most common dual and triple resistance patterns were metronidazole/clarithromycin (4.4%) and metronidazole/clarithromycin/levofloxacin (1.8%), respectively.ConclusionsOver 15 years, H. pylori resistance rates to metronidazole, clarithromycin and levofloxacin had increased. There was increased resistance to multiple antibiotics.
Environmental niche drives genetic and morphometric structure in a widespread bat
Authors: Morales Ariadna , Villalobos Fabricio , Velazco Paúl M. , Simmons Nancy B. , Piñero Daniel 
Published: January 2016

AbstractAimTo explore whether environmental factors are correlated with genetic and morphometric differences in the widely distributed bat speciesTadarida brasiliensis.LocationNorth America and Central America.MethodsWe used an extensive sampling comprising 131 localities that represent heterogeneous environments across the Nearctic and Neotropical regions. Museum specimens were examined and 25 craniodental characters were recorded. Individuals were genotyped at one mitochondrial locus (mtDNA) and nine nuclear loci (nDNA). Clustering and phylogenetic analyses were used to identify differentiated groups. Environmental variables andPCA‐env approaches were used to determine the climatic niche and to measure the niche overlap, equivalence and similarity between groups. Mantel tests between genetic groupings and environmental variables, dispersal costs, Euclidean geographical distances and niche overlap were performed.ResultsWe identified six genetic groups within Central and North AmericanT. brasiliensisbased onnDNA. The most strongly differentiated group, in bothnDNAand mtDNA, was located in central Mexico. Morphometric data showed that individuals from populations in Florida are slightly larger than the others. Niche overlap was detected among Neotropical groups but not among Nearctic groups. The currently recognized subspecies were not recovered as distinct groups with either genetic or morphometric data.Main conclusionsOur approaches suggest that environmental niche variation may help shape the distribution of genetic variation across heterogeneous landscapes, particularly in widely distributed species. Environmental niche analyses suggest that genetic differences between migratory and non‐migratory groups ofT. brasiliensismay be promoted by climatic variation throughout the Nearctic and Neotropical regions. In addition, genetic and morphometric analyses do not support the current subspecies classification ofT. brasiliensisin North and Central America, which should be abandoned.