bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Multiple gut–liver axis abnormalities in children with obesity with and without hepatic involvement
Authors: Guercio Nuzio S. , Di Stasi M. , Pierri L. , Troisi J. , Poeta M. , Bisogno A. , Belmonte F. , Tripodi M. , Di Salvio D. , Massa G. , Savastano R. , Cavallo P. , Boffardi M. , Ziegenhardt D. , Bergheim I. , Mandato C. , Vajro P. 
Published: June 2016

SummaryBackgroundGut–liver axis (GLA) dysfunction appears to play a role in obesity and obesity‐related hepatic complications.ObjectivesThis study sought to concurrently explore several GLA components in a paediatric obese population with/without liver disease.MethodsThirty‐two children (mean age 11.2 years) were enrolled: nine controls with normal weight and 23 patients with obesity (OB+). Of the 23 patients OB(+), 12 had not steatosis (ST−), and 11 had steatosis (ST+) (associated [n = 8] or not [n = 3] with hypertransaminasaemia [ALT +/−]). Subjects were characterized by using auxologic, ultrasonographic and laboratory parameters. A glucose hydrogen breath test was performed to test for small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, a urinary lactulose/mannitol ratio (LMR) was obtained to assess intestinal permeability, and tests for transaminases, blood endogenous ethanol, endotoxin and faecal calprotectin were also conducted.ResultsEleven out of 23 patients OB(+) (p < 0.05) exhibited pathological (>90th percentile of the control group values) LMR, with values paralleling the grade of liver involvement (normal weight < OB[+] < OB[+]ST[+]ALT[−] < OB[+)]ST[+]ALT[+] [p < 0.05]). LMR significantly correlated with ethanolaemia (r = 0.38, p = 0.05) and endotoxaemia (r = 0.48, p = 0.015) concentrations. Increased permeability was a risk factor for the development of steatosis (p < 0.002). SIBO was present only in patients with obesity. Faecal calprotectin concentrations were within normal limits in all subjects.ConclusionsIncreased permeability, endogenous ethanol and systemic endotoxin concentrations reflect some GLA dysfunction in obesity and its hepatic complications. Pending further results to establish their potential causative roles, the modulation of the GLA appears to represent a possible target for the prevention and treatment of these conditions.
Use of high‐density SNP data to identify patterns of diversity and signatures of selection in broiler chickens
Authors: Stainton J.J. , Charlesworth B. , Haley C.S. , Kranis A. , Watson K. , Wiener P. 
Published: June 2016

SummaryThe development of broiler chickens over the last 70 years has been accompanied by large phenotypic changes, so that the resulting genomic signatures of selection should be detectable by current statistical techniques with sufficiently dense genetic markers. Using two approaches, this study analysed high‐density SNP data from a broiler chicken line to detect low‐diversity genomic regions characteristic of past selection. Seven regions with zero diversity were identified across the genome. Most of these were very small and did not contain many genes. In addition, fifteen regions were identified with diversity increasing asymptotically from a low level. These regions were larger and thus generally included more genes. Several candidate genes for broiler traits were found within these ‘regression regions’, including IGF1, GPD2 and MTNR1AI. The results suggest that the identification of zero‐diversity regions is too restrictive for characterizing regions under selection, but that regions showing patterns of diversity along the chromosome that are consistent with selective sweeps contain a number of genes that are functional candidates for involvement in broiler development. Many regions identified in this study overlap or are close to regions identified in layer chicken populations, possibly due to their shared precommercialization history or to shared selection pressures between broilers and layers.
3D Facial Effects of a Simulated Dental Build‐up
Authors: Sterenborg Bernadette A. M. M. , Maal Thomas J.J. , Vreeken Rinaldo D. , Loomans Bas A.C. , Huysmans Marie‐Charlotte D. N. J. M. 
Published: June 2016

ABSTRACTObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the 3D‐stereophotogrammetry technique to detect differences in facial appearance after a simulated rehabilitation.Materials and MethodsEleven volunteers without tooth wear participated. A 3D‐stereophotograph was taken in five different situations: resting position, teeth in occlusion, and teeth in occlusion with a 1 mm‐, 3 mm‐ or 5 mm resin block between the first molars. Cephalometric measurements were performed on the 3D‐stereophotographs using the software program Maxilim® (Medicim NV Mechelen, Belgium). Four anatomical parameters were analyzed: (1) Subnasale–Gnathion, (2) Subnasale–Stomion, (3) Stomion–Gnathion, and (4) Masseter right–Masseter left. A paired Student's T‐test was applied to detect significant differences (p < 0.05).ResultsStatistically significant changes in facial appearance of the lower facial height were detected in all measured positions, teeth in occlusion, 1 mm‐, 3 mm‐, and 5 mm block (p < 0.05). For the main distance (Subnasale–Gnathion) the mean measured differences were, respectively, 3.2 mm; 5.2 mm; and 6.7 mm.ConclusionsWith 3D‐stereophotograph imaging technology, it was possible to detect changes in facial appearance after an artificial increase of vertical dimension of occlusion. This finding implies that reconstruction of loss of tooth substance may cause a visible change in facial appearance of the patient.Clinical SignificanceThis study reveals a new 3D imaging technique that may be used for a better and more comprehensive treatment planning in patients with severe tooth wear. (J Esthet Restor Dent 28:397–404, 2016)
Echoendoscopic ethanol ablation of tumor combined with celiac plexus neurolysis in patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma
Authors: Facciorusso Antonio , Di Maso Marianna , Serviddio Gaetano , Larghi Alberto , Costamagna Guido , Muscatiello Nicola 
Published: June 2016

AbstractBackground and AimEndoscopic ultrasonography guided‐celiac plexus neurolysis relieves pain in patients with pancreatic cancer but with often suboptimal and transient results. The study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of endoscopic ultrasound‐guided tumor ethanol ablation combined with celiac plexus neurolysis with respect to celiac plexus neurolysis alone for pain management in patients with pancreatic cancer.MethodsAmong 123 patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer referred to our Institution between 2006 and 2014, 58 treated with endoscopic ultrasound‐guided celiac plexus neurolysis (Group 1) and 65 with the combined approach (Group 2) were compared. Logistic regression models were applied to identify predictors of pain relief.ResultsThe two groups presented similar baseline clinical and tumoral parameters. Pre‐procedural visual analog scale score was 7 in both groups (P = 0.8), and tumor max diameter was 38 mm (range 25–59) in Group 1 and 43 mm (22–59) in Group 2 (P = 0.4). The combined treatment increased pain relief and complete pain response rate (P = 0.005 and 0.003, respectively). Median duration of pain relief was 10 (7–14) and 18 (13–20) weeks in the two groups, respectively (P = 0.004). At multivariate regression, initial visual analog scale score and endoscopic technique adopted resulted significantly associated with pain relief. No severe treatment‐related adverse events were reported. Median overall survival was 6.5 months (5.1–8.6) in Group 1 and 8.3 months (6–11.4) in Group 2 (P = 0.05).ConclusionsEndoscopic ultrasound‐guided tumor ablation combined with celiac plexus neurolysis appears to be superior to celiac plexus neurolysis alone in terms of pain control and overall survival.
Factors Influencing Outcomes of Older Adults After Undergoing Rehabilitation for Hip Fracture
Authors: McGilton Katherine S. , Chu Charlene H. , Naglie Gary , van Wyk Paula M. , Stewart Steven , Davis Aileen M. 
Published: June 2016

ObjectivesTo determine the contribution of cognitive impairment, prefracture functional impairment, and treatment as predictors of functional status and mobility 6 months after discharge from rehabilitation for older adults with hip fracture.DesignLongitudinal.SettingInpatient rehabilitation units of two community hospitals.ParticipantsAdults with hip fractures aged 65 and older who were discharged from a rehabilitation unit and had been living in the community before the fracture (N = 133).MeasurementsMini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) score at discharge from rehabilitation was used to identify the presence and severity of cognitive impairment. Outcomes were measured using questions from two subscales of the Functional Independence Measure (Self‐Care Function and Functional Mobility) and the New Mobility Scale (NMS). Measurements were made at discharge from a rehabilitation setting and 3 and 6 months after discharge.ResultsPrefracture functional impairment was associated with worse outcomes throughout the 6 months after discharge and with lower rates of improvement, or in some cases decline, after discharge. Cognitive impairment was associated with worse outcomes throughout the 6 months after discharge but was only weakly associated with lower rates of improvement or decline. The Patient Centered Rehabilitation Model of care targeting persons with cognitive impairment (PCRM‐CI) intervention group had higher NMS scores after discharge than a usual care group.ConclusionAlthough cognitive impairment and prefracture functional impairment contribute to poor outcomes, prefracture functional impairment was more strongly associated with poor outcomes than cognitive impairment. There is evidence to show that individuals with cognitive impairment are able to regain their mobility, which suggests a need for postdischarge targeted interventions that include a focus on activities of daily living for older adults with cognitive impairment and functional impairment to stabilize gains from inpatient rehabilitation.
Topical injury evaluation of the murine colorectal mucosa using confocal endomicrosopy: a valuable method for assessing mucosal injuries associated with risk of pathogen transmission
Authors: VARGAS GRACIE , VINCENT KATHLEEN LISTIAK , WEI JINGNA , BOURNE NIGEL , MOTAMEDI MASSOUD 
Published: June 2016

SummaryBackground: Concern regarding the effect of epithelial damage to the colorectal surface and possible impact on sexually transmitted infection transmission prompts the need for methods to evaluate the mucosal microscopic surface in preclinical studies examining such injury. This includes determining the effect of topical HIV prevention products on mucosal barrier integrity. In vivo imaging with high‐resolution endomicroscopy could reveal defects in the mucosal barrier resulting from injury/surface trauma.Methods: Confocal endomicroscopy was investigated to assess the ability to image surface injury resulting from topical application of a chemical used in lubricants and microbial products. Mice treated with a 50 μL rectal dose of 0.2% benzalkonium chloride solution, 1% benzalkonium chloride or phosphate‐buffered saline control for 20 min were imaged in vivo using confocal endomicroscopy for assessment of epithelial disruption. Following imaging, mice were sacrificed and rectal tissue evaluated by histology. Confocal images were graded based on degree of disruption to crypt and epithelial microstructure. Histology was graded based on percent of epithelial disruption observed in stained sections. Confocal image features were confirmed by high‐resolution two‐photon microscopy.Results: Based on quantitative grading of in vivo confocal endomicroscopy images, disruption at the microscopic scale was observed following treatment with benzalkonium chloride, with increased injury occurring with higher dose. Epithelial disruption at the lumen surface, evident between crypts and alteration in crypt structure on the luminal side were observed in confocal endomicroscopy and confirmed by histology.Conclusions: High‐resolution imaging by confocal endomicroscopy can be used as a noninvasive tool for rapid visual assessment of rectal epithelial integrity following surface injury, potentially providing valuable indication of epithelial injury or trauma.
Miniaturized modules for light sheet microscopy with low chromatic aberration
Authors: BRUNS T. , BAUER M. , BRUNS S. , MEYER H. , KUBIN D. , SCHNECKENBURGER H. 
Published: June 2016

SummaryTwo miniaturized fibre‐coupled modules for light sheet‐based microscopy are described and compared with respect to image quality, chromatic aberration and beam alignment. Whereas in one module the light sheet is created by an achromatic cylindrical lens, reflection by a spherical mirror and concomitant astigmatic distortion are used to create the light sheet in the second module. Test experiments with fluorescent dyes in solution and multicellular tumour spheroids are reported, and some details on construction are given for both systems. Both modules are optimized for imaging individual cell layers of 3D biological samples and can be adapted to fit commercial microscopes.
Volunteer Service and Service Learning: Opportunities, Partnerships, and United Nations Millennium Development Goals
Authors: Dalmida Safiya George , Amerson Roxanne , Foster Jennifer , McWhinney‐Dehaney Leila , Magowe Mabel , Nicholas Patrice K. , Pehrson Karen , Leffers Jeanne 
Published: June 2016

AbstractPurposeThis article explores approaches to service involvement and provides direction to nurse leaders and others who wish to begin or further develop global (local and international) service or service learning projects.ApproachWe review types of service involvement, analyze service‐related data from a recent survey of nearly 500 chapters of the Honor Society of Nursing, Sigma Theta Tau International (STTI), make recommendations to guide collaborative partnerships and to model engagement in global and local service and service learning.FindingsThis article offers a literature review and describes results of a survey conducted by the STTI International Service Learning Task Force. Results describe the types of service currently conducted by STTI nursing members and chapters, including disaster response, service learning, and service‐related responses relative to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The needs of chapter members for information about international service are explored and recommendations for promoting global service and sustainability goals for STTI chapters are examined.ConclusionsBefore engaging in service, volunteers should consider the types of service engagement, as well as the design of projects to include collaboration, bidirectionality, sustainability, equitable partnerships, and inclusion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.Clinical RelevanceSTTI supports the learning, knowledge, and professional development of nurses worldwide. International service and collaboration are key to the advancement of the nursing profession. Culturally relevant approaches to international service and service learning are essential to our global organization, as it aims to impact the health status of people globally.
Long‐term results in low‐fluence 1064‐nm Q‐Switched Nd:YAG laser for melasma: Is it effective?
Authors: Gokalp Hilal , Akkaya Ayse Deniz , Oram Yasemin 
Published: June 2016

SummaryObjectiveThis study assessed the safety and clinical efficacy of a low‐fluence 1064‐nm Q‐switched neodymium‐doped:yttrium aluminum garnet (QS‐Nd:YAG) laser in the treatment of patients with melasma.MethodsThe study evaluated 34 melasma patients treated at a single institution using a 1064‐nm QS‐Nd:YAG laser. The laser parameters were 6 mm spot size and 2.5 J/cm2 fluence with multiple passes for 6–10 (median 8) sessions at 2‐week intervals. Outcomes were evaluated using photography, the modified Melasma Area and Severity Index (mMASI) score, and patient satisfaction interviews after the last treatment and 1 year after the last treatment.ResultsAfter the low‐fluence 1064‐nm QS‐Nd:YAG laser treatments, the mean mMASI score decreased from 6.7 ± 3.3 to 3.2 ± 1.6 (P < 0.01). After treatment completion, 20 of 34 patients (58.8%) rated themselves as having at least a 50% reduction in melasma severity. One year after the last treatment, recurrence was observed in 20 patients (58.8%) and the mean mMASI score increased from 3.2 ± 1.6 to 5.8 ± 1.9 in all patients.ConclusionThe recurrence of low‐fluence 1064‐nm QS‐Nd:YAG laser rates in melasma was high when the long‐term results were considered. This result may be attributed to certain patient and treatment‐related factors.
Learning Curve Assessment for Percutaneous Left Atrial Appendage Closure With the WATCHMAN Occluder
Authors: Ledwoch Jakob , Krollmann Christine , Staubach Stephan , Hug Martin , Strohm Henning , Mudra Harald 
Published: June 2016

ObjectivesWe sought to evaluate the effect of increasing experience with left atrial appendage (LAA) closure on short‐term outcome.BackgroundData regarding the impact of the learning curve of LAA closure—particularly regarding technical aspects of the procedure—are lacking.MethodsThe present analysis represents first data from a single‐center all‐comer registry. The population was divided into 3 groups according to treatment time (group 1: patients 1–30; group 2: patients 31–60; group 3: patients 61–90).ResultsThe mean age of the population was 77 years. Median CHA2DS2VASC Score and HAS‐BLED were 5 (IQR 3–5) and 3 (IQR 3–4), respectively. Implantation success was 90% with a slight but not statistically significant increase during the course of the registry. Procedure time (75 [62–108] vs. 50 [43–66] vs. 47 [41–61] minutes; P < 0.0001), fluoroscopy time (20 [15–30] vs. 11 [8−19] vs. 11 [9–18] minutes; P = 0.002), and contrast volume (105 [70–170] vs. 60 [50–75] vs. 50 [50–73] ml; P < 0.0001) were reduced across the 3 groups. In‐hospital complications decreased significantly (20 vs. 7% vs. 0%; P = 0.021). The compression grade of the occluder was chosen higher with increasing learning curve (15 [11–25] vs. 25 [17–29] vs. 21 [14–26] %; P = 0.05).ConclusionsWith increasing operator experience the performance and safety of percutaneous LAA closure improved continuously.
MALAT1 induces tongue cancer cells' EMT and inhibits apoptosis through Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway
Authors: Liang Jun , Liang Lizhong , Ouyang Kexiong , Li Zhiqiang , Yi Xianping 
Published: June 2016

BackgroundMALAT1 is recognized as an oncogenic lncRNA in various malignancies. However, its expression and function in oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma are still unknown. This study aims to investigate the expression and function of MALAT1 in TSCC tissues and cells.Materials and MethodsqPCR was performed to detect the expression of MALAT1. MALAT1 was suppressed and upregulated by plasmid transfection in TSCC cells, and then cell migration, invasion, EMT, and apoptosis were analyzed.ResultsLncRNA MALAT1 was upregulated in TSCC tissues and correlated with cervical lymph node metastasis in TSCC patients. Moreover, MALAT1 induced cell migration, invasion, EMT, and inhibited apoptosis by modulating Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway. Finally, inhibiting Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway attenuated the effect of exogenous MALAT1.ConclusionIn summary, upregulated MALAT1 in TSCC promoted EMT and inhibited cell apoptosis by modulating Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway.
Implementation of an in‐house quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction method for Hepatitis B virus quantification in West African countries
Authors: Ghosh S. , Sow A. , Guillot C. , Jeng A. , Ndow G. , Njie R. , Toure S. , Diop M. , Mboup S. , Kane C. T. , Lemoine M. , Thursz M. , Zoulim F. , Mendy M. , Chemin I. 
Published: June 2016

SummaryHepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major cause of chronic liver disease worldwide. HBV infection is diagnosed by serological tests, while real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) assays are used to quantify viral load, which is a crucial parameter to determine viral replication and to monitor antiviral treatments. However, measuring viral load in resource‐limited countries remains nonsystematic, due to the high cost of commercial kits. Here, we describe the development, validation and implementation of a low‐cost, in‐house qRT‐PCR assay to monitor HBV viral load in chronic carriers enrolled in the PROLIFICA programme in the Gambia and Senegal. Over 1500 HBsAg‐positive patients, including 210 chronically infected HBV patients, who were given antiviral treatment (tenofovir), were monitored by qRT‐PCR using the SYBR Green‐ and HBV‐specific primers. Twenty‐four tenofovir‐treated patients were followed up and their viral load was tested every 3 months over the 12‐month experimental time course. Compared to commercial assays, our in‐house assay was shown to be (i) highly reliable, with good intra‐ and interassay reproducibility over a wide range (45–4.5 × 108 copies mL−1), (ii) very similar in the viral loads detected (R2 = .90), (iii) highly sensitive, as it detected loads as low as 30 copies mL−1 (~5 IU mL−1), (iv) cheaper (2‐ to 3‐fold), (v) easier to implement and (vi) more rapid. Based on our experience, we recommend this assay as a reliable alternative to commercial assays, for monitoring HBV viraemia in resource‐limited, highly endemic countries to reduce the cost and technical obstacles associated with commercial kits.
Endothelin‐1 Immunoreactivity and its Association with Intramedullary Hemorrhage and Myelomalacia in Naturally Occurring Disk Extrusion in Dogs
Authors: Mayer D. , Oevermann A. , Seuberlich T. , Vandevelde M. , Casanova‐Nakayama A. , Selimovic‐Hamza S. , Forterre F. , Henke D. 
Published: June 2016

BackgroundThe pathophysiology of ascending/descending myelomalacia (ADMM) after canine intervertebral disk (IVD) extrusion remains poorly understood. Vasoactive molecules might contribute.Hypothesis/ObjectivesTo investigate the immunoreactivity of endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) in the uninjured and injured spinal cord of dogs and its potential association with intramedullary hemorrhage and extension of myelomalacia.AnimalsEleven normal control and 34 dogs with thoracolumbar IVD extrusion.MethodsSpinal cord tissue of dogs retrospectively selected from our histopathologic database was examined histologically at the level of the extrusion (center) and in segments remote from the center. Endothelin‐1 immunoreactivity was examined immunohistochemically and by in situ hybridization. Associations between the immunoreactivity for ET‐1 and the severity of intramedullary hemorrhage or the extension of myelomalacia were examined.ResultsEndothelin‐1 was expressed by astrocytes, macrophages, and neurons and only rarely by endothelial cells in all dogs. At the center, ET‐1 immunoreactivity was significantly higher in astrocytes (median score 4.02) and lower in neurons (3.21) than in control dogs (3.0 and 4.54) (P < .001; P = .004) irrespective of the grade of hemorrhage or myelomalacia. In both astrocytes and neurons, there was a higher ET‐1 immunoreactivity in spinal cord regions remote from the center (4.58 and 4.15) than in the center itself (P = .013; P = .001). ET‐1 mRNA was present in nearly all neurons with variable intensity, but not in astrocytes.Conclusion and Clinical ImportanceEnhanced ET‐1 immunoreactivity over multiple spinal cord segments after IVD extrusion might play a role in the pathogenesis of ADMM. More effective quantitative techniques are required.