bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Accumulation of rectum dose‐volume metrics for prostate external beam radiotherapy combined with brachytherapy: Evaluating deformably registered dose distribution addition using parameter‐based addition
Authors: Moulton Calyn R , House Michael J , Lye Victoria , Tang Colin I , Krawiec Michele , Joseph David J , Denham James W , Ebert Martin A 
Published: February 2017

AbstractIntroductionTo investigate the accuracy of deriving dose‐volume histogram (DVH) parameters from deformably registered data by comparing values with the simple addition of DVHs from each phase of a combined external beam radiotherapy (EBRT)/high‐dose‐rate (HDR‐BT) brachytherapy prostate treatment.MethodsEighty‐two patients received EBRT in 23 fractions of 2 Gy and HDR‐BT TG43 in three fractions of 6.5 Gy. The HDR‐BT CT was deformably registered to the EBRT CT. The rectum D0.1cc, D1cc, D2cc and D10cc were calculated in two ways. (i) Parameter‐adding: the EBRT DVH parameters (or the EBRT prescription dose) were added to the unregistered HDR‐BT DVH parameters. (ii) Distribution‐adding: the parameters were extracted after the EBRT doses were 3D‐summed with the registered HDR‐BT doses. Resulting differences between the parameters were investigated.ResultsThe D0.1cc, D1cc and D2cc from parameter‐adding were 21.3% (P < 0.001), 6.3% (P < 0.001) and 3.5% (P < 0.001) smaller than those from distribution‐adding. The D10cc was 2.2% (P = 0.015) larger for distribution‐adding.ConclusionDistribution‐adding was confounded by unsystematic inter/intra‐observer rectum‐contouring errors and registration accuracy near the anterior rectal wall. Consequently, clinical use of distribution‐adding to assess rectal doses requires careful contour and registration evaluation.
HTLV‐1 seroprevalance in sarcoidosis. A clinical and laboratory study in northeast of Iran
Authors: Saghafi Massoud , Rezaieyazdi Zahra , Nabavi Shima , Mirfeizi Zahra , Sahebari Maryam , Salari Masoumeh 
Published: February 2017

AbstractAimSarcoidosis is an autoimmune multiorgan granulomatosis disease with unknown origin. Some environmental factors such as viruses may induce the disease in genetically susceptible individuals. Human T cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV‐1) can dysregulate the human immune system and the role of this virus in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases has been investigated and documented, such as in uveitis. In this study, we have focused on the seroprevalence of HTLV‐1 in sarcoidosis in comparison to the normal population in the northeast of Iran, an endemic area for HTLV‐1.MethodsThis cross‐sectional study enrolled 125 patients with established sarcoidosis to evaluate the frequency of HTLV‐1 and compare it with the normal population of Mashhad, Iran. Participants’ blood samples were analyzed for HTLV‐1 antibody by an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay kit. Positive results were confirmed by polymerase chain reaction method. Finally, data were analyzed using SPSS 11.ResultsAmong sarcoidosis patients 106 (84.8%) patients had a history of acute course and 19 (15.2%) had chronic sarcoidosis. Four percent of the patients versus 2.12% of the Mashhad population were HTLV‐1 positive with no statistical difference (P = 0.201). In age‐ and sex‐matched selected controls, 3.6% were HTLV‐1 positive again with no statistical difference by sarcoidosis group (P = 0.52). There was no statistical difference between arthritis, erythema nodusom, uveitis, constitutional symptoms, abnormal chest radiography (parahilar lymphadenopathy) and computed tomography scan findings, respiratory symptoms, sex, the course of the sarcoidosis in HTLV‐1 positive and negative sarcoidosis patients.ConclusionThe frequency of HTLV‐1 in 125 sarcoidosis patients was 4%. In comparison with prevalence of HTLV‐1 in Mashhad, HTLV‐1 seroprevalence did not show any significant difference.
Strategic Implications of Openness in AI Development
Authors: Bostrom Nick 
Published: February 2017

AbstractThis paper attempts a preliminary analysis of the global desirability of different forms of openness in AI development (including openness about source code, science, data, safety techniques, capabilities, and goals). Short‐term impacts of increased openness appear mostly socially beneficial in expectation. The strategic implications of medium and long‐term impacts are complex. The evaluation of long‐term impacts, in particular, may depend on whether the objective is to benefit the present generation or to promote a time‐neutral aggregate of well‐being of future generations. Some forms of openness are plausibly positive on both counts (openness about safety measures, openness about goals). Others (openness about source code, science, and possibly capability) could lead to a tightening of the competitive situation around the time of the introduction of advanced AI, increasing the probability that winning the AI race is incompatible with using any safety method that incurs a delay or limits performance. We identify several key factors that must be taken into account by any well‐founded opinion on the matter.
A comparison of sugammadex and neostigmine for reversal of rocuronium‐induced neuromuscular blockade in children
Authors: Ammar A. S. , Mahmoud K. M. , Kasemy Z. A. 
Published: February 2017

BackgroundSugammadex is designed to be a reversal agent for steroidal muscle relaxants. The current trial was aimed to compare between sugammadex and neostigmine concerning the recovery time from neuromuscular blockade. We hypothesised that sugammadex might have shorter recovery time than neostigmine.MethodsSixty paediatric patients aged 2–10 years scheduled for lower abdominal surgeries were randomly assigned into two equal groups to receive 4 mg/kg sugammadex (Group S) or 0.35 mg/kg neostigmine and 0.02 mg/kg atropine (Group N) as a reversal agent for rocuronium at the end of surgery. Primary outcome was the recovery time [time from starting of sugammadex or neostigmine till reaching train of four (TOF) ratio> 0.9] whereas secondary outcomes included number of patients who needed another dose of sugammadex or neostigmine to reach TOF ratio> 0.9, extubation time (time from stoppage of anaesthetic inhalation until the patient fulfilled criteria for safe extubation, post‐anaesthesia care unit (PACU) discharge time and post‐operative adverse effects.ResultsThe mean recovery and extubation times were significantly shorter (P = 0.002 and 0.005) in Group S compared with Group N (2.5 and 2.0 min vs. 12.6 min and 4.3 min respectively). In the Group N, eight patients needed another reversal dose compared with one patient in Group S (P = 0.035). PACU discharge time showed no significant difference between both groups. Incidence of nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, and dry mouth were significantly higher in Group N.ConclusionSugammadex administration in children resulted in faster recovery and extubation times and lower incidence of adverse events compared with neostigmine.
Human vaginal epithelial cells augment autophagy marker genes in response to Candida albicans infection
Authors: Shroff Ankit , Sequeira Roicy , Reddy Kudumula Venkata Rami 
Published: February 2017

ProblemAutophagy plays an important role in clearance of intracellular pathogens. However, no information is available on its involvement in vaginal infections such as vulvo‐vaginal candidiasis (VVC). VVC is intimately associated with the immune status of the human vaginal epithelial cells (VECs). The objective of our study is to decipher if autophagy process is involved during Candida albicans infection of VECs.Methods of studyIn this study, C. albicans infection system was established using human VEC line (VK2/E6E7). Infection‐induced change in the expression of autophagy markers like LC3 and LAMP‐1 were analyzed by RT‐PCR, q‐PCR, Western blot, immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies were carried out to ascertain the localization of autophagosomes. Multiplex ELISA was carried out to determine the cytokine profiles.ResultsAnalysis of LC3 and LAMP‐1 expression at mRNA and protein levels at different time points revealed up‐regulation of these markers 6 hours post C. albicans infection. LC3 and LAMP‐1 puncti were observed in infected VECs after 12 hours. TEM studies showed C. albicans entrapped in autophagosomes. Cytokines‐TNF‐α and IL‐1β were up‐regulated in culture supernatants of VECs at 12 hours post‐infection.ConclusionThe results suggest that C. albicans invasion led to the activation of autophagy as a host defense mechanism of VECs.
Palmitic acid stimulates interleukin‐8 via the TLR4/NF‐κB/ROS pathway and induces mitochondrial dysfunction in bovine oviduct epithelial cells
Authors: Ohtsu Ayaka , Tanaka Hazuki , Seno Kotomi , Iwata Hisataka , Kuwayama Takehito , Shirasuna Koumei 
Published: February 2017

ProblemWe investigated the effect of palmitic acid (PA), a major saturated fatty acid in NEFA, on bovine oviduct epithelial cells (OECs) during in vitro cell culture.Method of studyBovine oviductal tissues ipsilateral to the corpus luteum were collected 1‐3 days after ovulation; the OECs were isolated and cultured.ResultsPA increased lipid accumulation and activated caspase‐3 in OECs, resulting in decreased cell proliferation. PA also stimulated the secretion of inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)‐8 depending on TLR4, NF‐κB activation, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Moreover, PA induced mitochondrial dysfunction, including mitochondrial fission, ATP production, and mitochondrial ROS production. It also increased levels of LC3 and p62 proteins, suggesting autophagy induction in OECs.ConclusionWe suggest that bovine OECs recognize an excessive increase in endogenous and sterile danger signals, such as PA, which may contribute to chronic oviductal inflammation, resulting in infertility associated with oviductal dysfunction.
Definitive class I human leukocyte antigen expression in gestational placentation: HLA‐F, HLA‐E, HLA‐C, and HLA‐G in extravillous trophoblast invasion on placentation, pregnancy, and parturition
Authors: Hackmon Rinat , Pinnaduwage Lakmini , Zhang Jianhong , Lye Stephen J. , Geraghty Daniel E. , Dunk Caroline E. 
Published: February 2017

ProblemThe extravillous trophoblasts (EVT) express HLA‐C and HLA‐G, but HLA‐E and HLA‐F are the subject of conflicting reports. In this study, we define the HLA expression profile during active EVT placental implantation, pregnancy development, and parturition.Method of studyImmunohistochemistry, q‐PCR, and Western blot were used to investigate HLA‐C, HLA‐E, and HLA‐F placental expression across gestation from the early first trimester, late first trimester, second trimester (n=10 in each), preterm gestation (n=6) to elective term cesarean section and term vaginal deliveries (n=12, 38‐41 weeks). EVT explants and Swan71 cells were used to assess HLA‐C and HLA‐F during active EVT migration.ResultsHLA‐G, HLA‐C, and HLA‐F were expressed by 1st‐trimester EVT and became intracellular and weaker as gestation progressed. HLA‐E was only expressed in 1st‐trimester placenta. HLA‐F and HLA‐C mRNA and protein expression levels showed a significant increase in the fetal villous mesenchyme across gestation. HLA‐C levels increased with labor. We detected a 100‐kDa HLA‐F band in early pregnancy suggesting dimer formation on the EVT surface. These results were confirmed in EVT outgrowths and Swan71 trophoblast which showed that HLA‐F and HLA‐G are increased on the cell surface of migrating EVT, while HLA‐C was internalized.ConclusionExpression of HLA‐F and HLA‐G on the cell surface of actively migrating EVT supports their specific role in early EVT invasion and interactions with uterine natural killer cells. HLA‐C's limited expression to the proliferative EVT suggests a protective role in the earliest events of implantation but not in active EVT invasion. We also show for the first time that HLA‐C may be involved in parturition.
Diagnostic genetic screening for assisted reproductive technologies patients with macrozoospermia
Authors: Carmignac V. , Dupont J.‐M. , Fierro R. C. , Barberet J. , Bruno C. , Lieury N. , Dulioust E. , Auger J. , Fauque P. 
Published: February 2017

SummaryMacrozoospermia is characterized by a high proportion of abnormal spermatozoa with enlarged heads. So far, it has been associated with mutations only in the Aurora Kinase C gene (AURKC) in some cases. Although many publications have reported failure to conceive in couples with macrozoospermia, a few others have described successful pregnancies, thus raising questions as to whether ICSI and AURKC genetic screening should be recommended in all patients with macrozoospermia. First, we report on two monozygotic twins presenting macrozoospermia for whom the genetic status was explored (Aurora Kinase C sequencing) and whole semen and gradient‐selected spermatozoa were analyzed, using Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization (FISH), Electron Microscopy and flow cytometry. Additionally, FISH analysis was performed on individually selected uniflagellate spermatozoa with normal sized heads. Second, we also provide an updated review of patients with macrozoospermia gathering the percentage of enlarged head spermatozoa, the genetic status and pregnancy outcomes. Both twins carried a homozygous mutation of AURKC. Spermocytograms showed means of 86% and 83.5% of enlarged head forms. FISH analyses showed that normal head size, uniflagellate spermatozoa had an aneuploid or polyploid nucleus despite a high level of selection. SEM analysis also showed special intranuclear inclusions in enlarged head spermatozoa. Our data together with cases reported in the literature allowed us to recommend that the AURKC gene should be sequenced when the sperm contains 30% or more of enlarged head spermatozoa, and when a mutation is found, ART should not be performed. Our analyses provide information that could greatly help practitioners in their decision‐making with regard to optimal care of patients with macrozoospermia.
Protein kinase C activity in boar sperm
Authors: Teijeiro J. M. , Marini P. E. , Bragado M. J. , Garcia‐Marin L. J. 
Published: February 2017

SummaryMale germ cells undergo different processes within the female reproductive tract to successfully fertilize the oocyte. These processes are triggered by different extracellular stimuli leading to activation of protein phosphorylation. Protein kinase C (PKC) is a key regulatory enzyme in signal transduction mechanisms involved in many cellular processes. Studies in boar sperm demonstrated a role forPKCin the intracellular signaling involved in motility and cellular volume regulation. Experiments using phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA) showed increases in the Serine/Threonine phosphorylation of substrates downstream ofPKCin boar sperm. In order to gain knowledge about those cellular processes regulated byPKC, we evaluate the effects ofPMAon boar sperm motility, lipid organization of plasma membrane, integrity of acrosome membrane and sperm agglutination. Also, we investigate the crosstalk betweenPKAandPKCintracellular pathways in spermatozoa from this species. The results presented here reveal a participation ofPKCin sperm motility regulation and membrane fluidity changes, which is probably associated to acrosome reaction and to agglutination. Also, we show the existence of a hierarchy in the kinases pathway. Previous works on boar sperm suggest a pathway in whichPKAis positioned upstream toPKCand this new results support such model.
Introduction of robot‐assisted radical hysterectomy for early stage cervical cancer: impact on complications, costs and oncologic outcome
Authors: Wallin Emelie , Flöter Rådestad Angelique , Falconer Henrik 
Published: February 2017

AbstractIntroductionThe objective was to assess the impact of robot‐assisted radical hysterectomy (RRH) on surgical and oncologic outcome and costs compared with open radical hysterectomy (ORH) at a tertiary referral center in Sweden.Material and methodsIn this retrospective analysis all patients treated with radical hysterectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy for early stage uterine cervical cancer during 2006–2015 were included (n = 304). The patients were divided into two groups, ORH (n = 155) and RRH (n = 149). Patient characteristics, FIGO stage, histology, adjuvant therapy, operation time, length of stay (LOS), lymph node yield, recurrence rate and survival were retrieved from medical records. Complications were graded according to the Clavien–Dindo classification. In addition, costs related to the surgical treatments were calculated.ResultsBlood loss, LOS and intraoperative complications were significantly lower as well as lymph node yield after RRH. No differences in postoperative complications or costs were observed between the two groups. Recurrence of disease was detected in 13.4 and 10.3% after RRH and ORH, respectively. Regression analysis demonstrated that histology, tumor size, positive lymph nodes and type of operation (RRH) were significantly associated with recurrence.ConclusionThe introduction of RRH was accompanied by similar postoperative complication rates and costs but lower LOS compared with ORH. An initial learning curve may account for the higher recurrence rate observed after RRH. These data reinforce the need for structured training and monitoring of outcomes when novel treatment modalities are introduced.
Genetic correlations between male reproductive traits and growth traits in growth performance tested Duroc, Landrace and Yorkshire breed boars
Authors: Chang Hsiu‐Luan , Lai Yung‐Yu , Wu Ming‐Che , Sasaki Osamu 
Published: February 2017

AbstractMale‐related traits at 180–225 days of age for 6464 grow‐finish performance tested boars were measured from 2000 to 2016. Heritability estimates and genetic correlations among average daily gain, feed efficiency, back fat thickness, teat counts, mounting libido, leg locomotion, penile length, sperm motility, sperm concentration and total sperm counts were estimated by VCE software using a multiple traits animal model in each breed. Growth‐tested boars had heritability estimates of male reproductive traits in 0.34–0.56 of teat counts, 0.12–0.20 of libido, 0.08–0.12 of locomotion, 0.17–0.58 of penile length, 0.04–0.21 of sperm motility and concentration, 0.17–0.30 of total sperm counts. Total sperm counts were genetically positively correlated with penile length in all breeds. Boars with higher total sperm counts had genetically better libido and locomotion. Genetic correlation between feed efficiency and sperm motility and feed efficiency and sperm concentration were positive in Duroc and negative in Landrace and Yorkshire. Sperm motility and concentration were genetically negatively correlated with average daily gain in Yorkshire. Male reproductive traits of imported breeds could be improved with care in the change of growth traits, especially in Yorkshire.
Long non‐coding RNA analysis of muscular responses to testosterone deficiency in Huainan male pigs
Authors: Xing Baosong , Bai Xianxiao , Guo Hongxia , Chen Junfeng , Hua Liushuai , Zhang Jiaqing , Ma Qiang , Ren Qiaoling , Wang Huashuai , Wang Jing 
Published: February 2017

AbstractLong non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) participated in growth and development of skeletal muscle; however, little is known about their response to testosterone deficiency in porcine skeletal muscle. We compared lean mass related carcass traits and lncRNAs expression files in Longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle between intact and castrated Huainan male pigs. The results showed that castration significantly reduced eye muscle area and lean meat percentage (P < 0.05), but increased the fat mass weight (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, 8946 lncRNAs, including 6743 intergenic lncRNAs (lincRNAs), 498 anti‐sense lncRNAs, and 1705 intronic lncRNAs, were identified in porcine LD, among which, 385 lncRNAs were considered as the differentially expressed candidates between intact groups and castrated groups (q‐value < 0.05). Functional analysis indicated that these differently expressed lncRNAs and their target genes were involved in the estrogen receptor signaling pathway and skeletal and muscular system development and function. We first detect porcine muscular lncRNA response to castration, and the results suggested that lncRNAs and their target genes participated in the regulation of testosterone deficiency‐related skeletal muscle growth.
Feeding corn distillers grains as an energy source to gestating and lactating beef heifers: Impact of excess protein on feedlot performance, glucose tolerance, carcass characteristics and Longissimus muscle fatty acid profile of steer progeny
Authors: Gunn Patrick J. , Bridges Glen A. , Lemenager Ronald P. , Schoonmaker Jon P. 
Published: February 2017

AbstractThis study was conducted to determine the impact of dried distiller's grain with solubles (DDGS) from 192 days of gestation through 118 days of lactation on feedlot performance, carcass characteristics, Longissimus muscle (LM) fatty acids and glucose tolerance of male progeny (n = 36). Angus‐Simmental heifer dams were fed diets that contained either DDGS (DG) or not (CON) formulated to provide similar daily net energy for gain but differing crude protein. In the feedlot, male progeny were fed a diet devoid of DDGS. An intravenous glucose tolerance test (IVGTT) was performed on a subset of 20 steers prior to harvest. Steers were harvested at a common 12th rib fat depth. Data were analyzed with the GLIMMIX and MIXED procedures of SAS. Performance (P ≥ 0.11) and glucose and insulin concentrations during IVGTT (P ≥ 0.24) did not differ between treatments. Dressing percentage tended to be greater (P = 0.09) in DG than CON progeny, but all other carcass characteristics did not differ (P ≥ 0.18). Progeny from DG dams had greater LM 16:2, 18:0, and 20:1 n‐9 concentrations than progeny from CON dams (P ≤ 0.02). In conclusion, DDGS are a viable option for gestating and lactating beef cows.
Population pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of linezolid‐induced thrombocytopenia in hospitalized patients
Authors: Tsuji Yasuhiro , Holford Nicholas H.G. , Kasai Hidefumi , Ogami Chika , Heo Young‐A , Higashi Yoshitsugu , Mizoguchi Akiko , To Hideto , Yamamoto Yoshihiro 
Published: February 2017

AimsThrombocytopenia is among the most important adverse effects of linezolid treatment. Linezolid‐induced thrombocytopenia incidence varies considerably but has been associated with impaired renal function. We investigated the pharmacodynamic mechanism (myelosuppression or enhanced platelet destruction) and the role of impaired renal function (RF) in the development of thrombocytopenia.MethodsThe pharmacokinetics of linezolid were described with a two‐compartment distribution model with first‐order absorption and elimination. RF was calculated using the expected creatinine clearance. The decrease platelets by linezolid exposure was assumed to occur by one of two mechanisms: inhibition of the formation of platelets (PDI) or stimulation of the elimination (PDS) of platelets.ResultsAbout 50% of elimination was found to be explained by renal clearance (normal RF). The population mean estimated plasma protein binding of linezolid was 18% [95% confidence interval (CI) 16%, 20%] and was independent of the observed concentrations. The estimated mixture model fraction of patients with a platelet count decreased due to PDI was 0.97 (95% CI 0.87, 1.00), so the fraction due to PDS was 0.03. RF had no influence on linezolid pharmacodynamics.ConclusionWe have described the influence of weight, renal function, age and plasma protein binding on the pharmacokinetics of linezolid. This combined pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and turnover model identified that the most common mechanism of thrombocytopenia associated with linezolid is PDI. Impaired RF increases thrombocytopenia by a pharmacokinetic mechanism. The linezolid dose should be reduced in RF.