bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Dosing down and then discontinuing biologic therapy in rheumatoid arthritis: a review of the literature
Authors: Chen Der‐Yuan , Lau Chak Sing , Elzorkany Bassel , Hsu Ping‐Ning , Praprotnik Sonja , Vasilescu Radu , Marshall Lisa , Llamado Lyndon 
Published: December 2017

AbstractAimTo review the published studies that dose down and then discontinue biologic therapy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), particularly concerning the criteria for such dosing and the impact on clinical outcomes.MethodsPublished studies conducted in patients with RA that sequentially decreased the dose and then discontinued therapy were included if one or more of the following biologic disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) was evaluated: abatacept, adalimumab, certolizumab, etanercept, golimumab, infliximab, rituximab or tocilizumab.ResultsFive studies qualified for inclusion. The populations of patients with RA were heterogeneous among the studies; patients were required to have low disease activity (LDA) or to be in remission prior to dose titration. Approximately 25–65% of patients successfully decreased and in some cases, discontinued the bDMARD. However, the flare rate was higher than for the patients who remained on a standard dose. The only variable that predicted relapse in more than one study was down‐titration of the bDMARD dose.ConclusionIn patients who have achieved LDA or remission, down‐titration and discontinuation of bDMARD therapy may be attempted, with careful monitoring. However, it is likely that some patients will flare, and it is not known how to predict these patients.
Effects of Long‐Term Alcohol Drinking on the Dopamine D2 Receptor: Gene Expression and Heteroreceptor Complexes in the Striatum in Rats
Authors: Feltmann Kristin , Borroto‐Escuela Dasiel Oscar , Rüegg Joëlle , Pinton Luca , de Oliveira Sergio Thatiane , Narváez Manuel , Jimenez‐Beristain Antonio , Ekström Tomas J. , Fuxe Kjell , Steensland Pia 
Published: December 2017

BackgroundReduced dopamine D2 receptor (D2R) ligand binding has repeatedly been demonstrated in the striatum of humans with alcohol use disorder (AUD). The attenuated D2R binding has been suggested to reflect a reduced D2R density, which in turn has been proposed to drive craving and relapse. However, results from rodent studies addressing the effects of alcohol drinking on D2R density have been inconsistent.MethodsA validated alcohol drinking model (intermittent access to 20% alcohol) in Wistar rats was used to study the effects of voluntary alcohol drinking (at least 12 weeks) on the D2R in the striatum compared to age‐matched alcohol‐naïve control rats. Reverse transcriptase quantitativePCRwas used to quantify isoform‐specificDrd2gene expression levels. Using bisulfite pyrosequencing,DNAmethylation levels of a regulatory region of theDrd2gene were determined. In situ proximity ligation assay was used to measure densities of D2R receptor complexes: D2R‐D2R, adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR)‐D2R, and sigma1 receptor (sigma1R)‐D2R.ResultsLong‐term voluntary alcohol drinking significantly reducedmRNAlevels of the long D2R isoform in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) but did not alter CpG methylation levels in the analyzed sequence of theDrd2gene. Alcohol drinking also reduced the striatal density of D2R‐D2R homoreceptor complexes, increased the density of A2AR‐D2R heteroreceptor complexes in theNAc shell and the dorsal striatum, and decreased the density of sigma1R‐D2R heteroreceptor complexes in the dorsal striatum.ConclusionsThe present results on long‐term alcohol drinking might reflect reduced D2R levels through reductions in D2R‐D2R homoreceptor complexes and gene expression. Furthermore, based on antagonistic interactions between A2ARand D2R, an increased density of A2AR‐D2R heteroreceptor complexes might indicate a reduced affinity and signaling of the D2R population within the complex. Hence, both reduced striatal D2R levels and reduced D2R protomer affinity within the striatal A2AR‐D2R complex might underlie reduced D2R radioligand binding in humans withAUD. This supports the hypothesis of a hypodopaminergic system inAUDand suggests the A2AR‐D2R heteroreceptor complex as a potential novel treatment target.
Ovarian Hormones Contribute to High Levels of Binge‐Like Drinking by Female Mice
Authors: Satta Rosalba , Hilderbrand Elisa R. , Lasek Amy W. 
Published: December 2017

BackgroundRecently, the incidence of binge drinking by women has increased. Binge drinking is detrimental to women's health, yet the biological mechanisms that promote excessive drinking by women are not well understood. One method of assessing binge‐like ethanol (EtOH) consumption in mice is the drinking in the dark (DID) test, in which mice drink sufficient EtOH to achieve intoxication. In this study, we directly compared male, female, and ovariectomized (OVX) mice for DID and tested whether 17β‐estradiol (E2) contributes to DID. We also measured whether DID varies throughout the estrous cycle and whether repeated intermittent DID impacts the estrous cycle.MethodsMale, female, and OVX C57BL/6J mice were tested for DID for 2 hours per day on days 1 to 3 and for 4 hours on day 4 using a single bottle containing 20% EtOH. To measure the effects of E2 on DID, OVX mice were treated with estradiol benzoate (EB) or vehicle daily starting 2 weeks prior to the drinking test and throughout the DID procedure. In a separate group of experiments, EtOH consumption and estrous cycle phase were measured in freely cycling mice that were drinking EtOH or water 5 days per week for 2 or 6 weeks.ResultsFemale mice consumed more EtOH than male and OVX mice. Treatment with EB increased EtOH consumption by OVX mice compared with vehicle‐treated controls. However, EtOH intake did not vary across the estrous cycle, nor did long‐term DID alter the estrous cycle.ConclusionsThese results demonstrate that ovarian hormones, specifically E2, contribute to increased EtOH consumption by female mice in the DID test. Although ovarian hormones contribute to this behavior, EtOH consumption is not affected by estrous cycle phase in freely cycling mice. This study provides a framework for understanding the factors that contribute to binge drinking in females.
Are we witnessing speciation? A case study of the species Sirthenea flavipes (Stål, 1855) (Heteroptera: Reduviidae)
Authors: Chłond Dominik , Bugaj‐Nawrocka Agnieszka , Sawka‐Gądek Natalia 
Published: December 2017

AbstractDuring our previous morphological and molecular studies, as well as modelling the environmental niche preferences of the genus Sirthenea Spinola, (Peiratinae), the distribution of the species S. flavipes (Stål, ) became one of the most interesting issues. This species has a very broad distribution range covering the southern part of western, central and eastern Asia. We observed two distinct types of colouration, each also exhibiting a certain degree of variability. Although both colour forms of the studied species show similar variability, the differences between them are so clear that they allow distinction of two populations that are separated by a geographical barrier. Morphology and colour variability are described for representatives of both populations. Genetic studies support the use of the distributional model for individuals in both populations, as well as a characteristic distribution of colour forms. Models which identified potentially suitable habitats based solely on climatic variables are prepared for both populations, as well as for the entire species, and predicted for the Last Glacial Maximum period. An analysis of ecoregions shows that both populations prefer areas with tree vegetation, such as tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forest biomes. Our studies show morphological divergence of these two discrete populations, reflecting an incipient stage of speciation.
Arterial distribution to the pelvic cavity and pelvic limb in the pampas deer (Ozotoceros bezoarticus, Linnaeus 1758)
Authors: Vazquez N. , Ríos C. , Sorriba V. , Pérez W. 
Published: December 2017

SummaryThis research is a study about the arterial vascularization of pelvic cavity and pelvic limb in pampas deer. For this study, 25 dead animals were used. The vascularization of the organs was investigated using a latex injection technique. Two animals were injected in the common carotid artery with contrast to cardiac angiography, and then, radiographs were taken. The aorta showed the two external iliac arteries, and after a short course, the aorta ended in two internal iliac arteries. The median sacral artery was originated from the dorsal surface cranially to the emergence of the internal iliac arteries. The last one gave off parietal (iliolumbar, cranial and caudal gluteal arteries) and visceral (umbilical and internal pudendal arteries) branches. The external iliac artery gave as first branch the deep circumflex iliac artery which was divided into a cranial and a caudal branch. After a short distance from the external iliac artery, the femoral and deep femoral arteries were originated. The deep femoral artery gave origin to the pudendoepigastric trunk and to the medial femoral circumflex artery. Based on the arterial distribution of the pelvic cavity and pelvic limb in the pampas deer, it is concluded that the internal iliac artery has a pattern of intermediate development. In reference to the distribution of the external iliac artery and its branches, the pattern of development is the cranial tibial type.
Paternal HLA‐C is a risk factor in unexplained recurrent miscarriage
Authors: Meuleman Tess , Haasnoot Geert W. , van Lith Jan M. M. , Verduijn Willem , Bloemenkamp Kitty W. M. , Claas Frans H. J. 
Published: December 2017

ProblemHLA‐C is the only classical HLA‐I antigen expressed on trophoblast. We hypothesized that the alloimmune response to paternal HLA‐C plays a role in unexplained recurrent miscarriage.Method of studyIn a case‐control design, we included 100 women with at least three unexplained consecutive miscarriages along with their partners and children. For the first control group, we included 90 women with an uneventful singleton pregnancy without pregnancy complications in their history along with their children. The second control group consisted of 425 families. HLA‐C*07 and HLA‐C*17 frequencies, which are the most immunogenic HLA‐C antigens, along with HLA‐C mismatches, and the presence of specific HLA antibodies in the mother were determined.ResultsHLA‐C and HLA‐C*07 mismatches were significantly increased in couples with recurrent miscarriage compared to control subjects (P = .016, P = .008, respectively). The incidence of child‐specific HLA‐C*07/HLA‐C*17 antibodies was increased in women with recurrent miscarriage (P = .007).ConclusionThe results show that HLA‐C incompatibility between couples is significantly associated with unexplained recurrent miscarriage.
Standing Up for Student Health: An Application of the Health Action Process Approach for Reducing Student Sedentary Behavior—Randomised Control Pilot Trial
Authors: Sui Wuyou , Prapavessis Harry 
Published: December 2017

BackgroundSedentary behavior (SB) has been associated with chronic diseases. University students are a high‐risk population for excessive SB. The purpose of this pilot study was to determine if a Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) based intervention, specifically action and coping planning, would increase student break frequency and decrease duration.MethodsFifty‐two university students (14 men, mean age 23.5) were randomised into an 8‐week HAPA‐treatment (sedentary behavior) or HAPA‐control (nutrition) group. Participants completed an SB questionnaire that assessed break frequency and duration of student SB (Baseline, Weeks 1–6 Treatment, and Weeks 7–8 Follow‐up), and received behavioral counselling on either dietary information or SB (Baseline and Week 3).ResultsAn intent‐to‐treat analysis revealed a significant group by time interaction effect for student break frequency (p = .05, ηρ2 = 0.27), and a non‐significant effect for student break duration (p = .10, ηρ2 = 0.23). For occupational (student) break frequency and duration, the large accompanying effect sizes favored the treatment group.ConclusionsThe current pilot study provides preliminary evidence for the potential of a HAPA‐based intervention for increasing student break frequency in full‐time university students.
Sofosbuvir and daclatasvir therapy in patients with hepatitis C‐related advanced decompensated liver disease (MELD ≥ 15)
Authors: McCaughan G. W. , Thwaites P. A. , Roberts S. K. , Strasser S. I. , Mitchell J. , Morales B. , Mason S. , Gow P. , Wigg A. , Tallis C. , Jeffrey G. , George J. , Thompson A. J. , Parker F. C. , Angus P. W. ,   the Australian Liver Association Clinical Research Network
Published: December 2017

SummaryBackgroundAntiviral therapy for hepatitis C has the potential to improve liver function in patients with decompensated cirrhosis.AimsTo examine the virological response and effect of viral clearance in patients with decompensated hepatitis C cirrhosis all with MELD scores ≥15 following sofosbuvir/daclatasvir ± ribavirin.MethodsWe prospectively collected data on patients who commenced sofosbuvir/daclatasvir for 24‐weeks under the Australian patient supply program (TOSCAR) and analysed outcomes including sustained viral response at 12 weeks (SVR12), death and transplant.Results108 patients (M/F, 79/29; median age 56years; Child‐Pugh 10; MELD 16; genotype 1/3, 55/47) received sofosbuvir/daclatasvir and two also received ribavirin. On intention‐to‐treat, the SVR12 rate was 70% (76/108). Seventy‐eight patients completed 24‐weeks therapy. SVR12 was achieved in 56 of these patients on per‐protocol‐analysis (76%). SVR12 was 80% in genotype 1 compared to 69% in genotype 3. Thirty patients failed to complete therapy. In patients achieving SVR12, median MELD and Child‐Pugh fell from 16(IQR15‐17) to 14(12‐17) and 10(9‐11) to 8(7‐9), respectively (P<.001). In those who died, MELD increased from 16 to 23 at death (P=.036). Patients who required transplantation had a significantly higher baseline MELD (20) compared to those patients completing treatment (16) (P=.0010). The odds ratio for transplant in patients with baseline MELD ≥20 was 13.8(95%CI 2.78‐69.04).ConclusionsSVR12 rates with sofosbuvir/daclatasvir in advanced liver disease are lower than in compensated disease. Although treatment improves MELD and Child‐Pugh in most patients, a significant proportion will die or require transplantation. In those with MELD ≥20, it may be better to delay treatment until post‐transplant.
Systematic review with network meta‐analysis: first‐ and second‐line pharmacotherapy for moderate‐severe ulcerative colitis
Authors: Singh S. , Fumery M. , Sandborn W. J. , Murad M. H. 
Published: December 2017

SummaryBackgroundThere are limited data to inform positioning of agents for treating moderate‐severe ulcerative colitis (UC).AimTo assess comparative efficacy and safety of different therapies as first‐line (biologic‐naïve) and second‐line (prior exposure to anti‐tumour necrosis factor(TNF)‐α) agents for moderate‐severe UC, through a systematic review and network meta‐analysis, and appraise quality of evidence (QoE) using grading of recommendations, assessment, development and evaluation (GRADE) approach.MethodsWe identified randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in adults with moderate‐severe UC treated with anti‐TNF agents, anti‐integrin agents and janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, as first‐line or second‐line agents, and compared with placebo or another active agent. Efficacy outcomes were induction/maintenance of remission and mucosal healing; and safety outcomes were serious adverse events and infections. Network meta‐analyses were performed, and ranking was assessed using surface under the cumulative ranking (SUCRA) probabilities.ResultsIn biologic‐naïve patients (12 trials, no head‐to‐head comparisons), infliximab and vedolizumab were ranked highest for induction of clinical remission (infliximab: odds ratio [OR], 4.10 [95% confidence intervals [CI], 2.58‐6.52]; SUCRA,0.85; vedolizumab:SUCRA,0.82) and mucosal healing (infliximab:SUCRA,0.91; vedolizumab:SUCRA,0.81) (moderate QoE). In patients with prior anti‐TNF exposure (4 trials, no head‐to‐head comparisons), tofacitinib was ranked highest for induction of clinical remission (OR, 11.88 [2.32‐60.89]; SUCRA, 0.96) and mucosal healing (moderate QoE). Differences in trial design limited comparability of trials of maintenance therapy for efficacy. Vedolizumab was ranked safest in terms of serious adverse events (SUCRA, 0.91), and infection (SUCRA, 0.75) in maintenance trials.ConclusionsInfliximab and vedolizumab are ranked highest as first‐line agents, and tofacitinib is ranked highest as second‐line agent, for induction of remission and mucosal healing in patients with moderate‐severe UC, based on indirect comparisons. Head‐to‐head trials are warranted to inform clinical decision‐making with greater confidence.
Bad Apples? Attributions for Police Treatment of African Americans
Authors: Haider‐Markel Donald P. , Joslyn Mark R. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractNumerous recent encounters between police officers and Black citizens have resulted in the deaths of African American men and have drawn renewed public scrutiny of police practices. We examine the public's attributions about these encounters. Does the public perceive violent confrontations between police officers and Black citizens as a result of broader problems in police practices or simply as isolated incidents? We employ attribution theory and social identity theory to understand how social and political identities influence beliefs about police use of force against African Americans. We argue that racial and political identities predispose individuals to believe certain attributional perspectives over others. We test several hypotheses using individual level survey data from two national surveys. Our findings suggest that racial and political identities strongly shape attributions, and these patterns have implications for public trust in government institutions and the ability of police to operate effectively. We conclude with recommendations for police and policymakers.
Effects of dietary protein level during rearing period and age at overfeeding on magret and foie gras quality in male mule ducks
Authors: Arroyo Julien , Molette Caroline , Lavigne Franck , Margetyal Carole , Amador Olivier , Dubois Jean‐Pierre , Fortun‐Lamothe Laurence 
Published: December 2017

AbstractThe aim of this trial was to study the effects of dietary protein content during the rearing period on the performance of mule ducks, according to age at overfeeding (O). Ducks (n = 612) were divided into four groups differing in the protein content in the diet offered during the starting period (S, 0–20 days; Sl vs. Sh: 150 vs. 175 g/kg crude protein (CP)) and growing‐finishing period (GF; 21–67 or 81 days, depending on age at O; GFl vs. GFh: 133 vs. 152 g/kg CP). The relative weight of pectoral muscle was lower when ducks were fed a low protein diet during S (−5%, P < 0.01) or GF period (−6%, P < 0.001) at 68 days and higher in ducks of the SlGFh group (+6%; P < 0.05) at 82 days. Both foie gras and magret weights fell when ducks were fed Sl or GFl (P < 0.05 and < 0.01). Mortality during the O period was higher in ducks fed the Sl diet and overfed at late age (7.4% vs. 0%; P < 0.01). In conclusion, a reduction in the dietary protein supply should be recommended only during the GF period for ducks overfed at a late age.
Mode of birth and postnatal health‐related quality of life after one previous cesarean in three European countries
Authors: Fobelets Maaike , Beeckman Katrien , Buyl Ronald , Daly Déirdre , Sinclair Marlene , Healy Patricia , Grylka‐Baeschlin Susanne , Nicoletti Jane , Gross Mechthild M. , Morano Sandra , Putman Koen 
Published: December 2017

AbstractBackgroundHow a woman gives birth can affect her health‐related quality of life (HRQoL). This study explored HRQoL at 3 months postpartum in women with a history of one previous cesarean in three European countries.MethodsA prospective longitudinal survey, embedded within a cluster randomized trial in three countries, exploring women's postnatal HRQoL up to 3 months postpartum. The Short‐Form Six‐Dimensions (SF‐6D) was used to measure HRQoL, and multivariate analyses were used to examine the relationship with mode of birth.ResultsComplete data were available from 880 women. Women with a spontaneous vaginal birth had the highest HRQoL scores, whereas women with an emergency repeat cesarean (P = .01) had the lowest. Postnatal readmission of the mother (P = .03), having public health insurance (P = .04), and a low antenatal HRQoL score (P < .01) contributes to poorer HRQoL scores. More specifically, women with a spontaneous vaginal birth had significantly higher HRQoL scores on the vitality dimension compared with women with an emergency repeat cesarean (P = .04).ConclusionsIn women with low‐risk factors, repeat cesareans result in a poorer HRQoL compared with vaginal birth. When there are no contraindications for vaginal birth, women with a history of one previous cesarean should be encouraged to give birth vaginally rather than have an elective repeat cesarean.
Geographical and intrapopulation variation in the diet of a threatened marine predator, Pontoporia blainvillei (Cetacea)
Authors: Henning Barbara , de Sá Carvalho Benilton , Pires Mathias M. , Bassoi Manuela , Marigo Juliana , Bertozzi Carolina , Araújo Márcio S. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractUnderstanding diet variation is a major concern when developing conservation guidelines for threatened species, especially for marine predators whose prey availability can be reduced by commercial fisheries. Diet can vary in geographically structured populations due to variation in prey availability and within a location due to the effects of season, sex, age, and individual. However, these sources of variation are seldom considered together in dietary studies. We analyzed diet variation at the geographical and intrapopulation levels in the franciscana dolphin (Pontoporia blainvillei) by analyzing samples of stomach contents from individuals incidentally caught by artisanal fisheries. We investigated the geographical (Northern, Central, and Southern regions of the São Paulo State coast, Brazil) and intrapopulation effects of season, sex, and age. We used the leave‐one‐out cross‐validation method to test for significance of the proportional similarity index, which measures the overlap between diet compositions. We found that diet varied across different levels, from the geographical to the individual level, including the effects of season, sex, and age. Diet variation as a function of age suggests an ontogenetic diet shift. Our findings indicate that ecological processes within local stocks should inform management at the local geographic scale. Evidence for ecological differences between franciscana stocks is of great significance for the conservation of this threatened species.